Author: News-Press NOW

Patrick Holleron

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — A new hub for innovators, entrepreneurs, remote professionals and business owners in Northwest Missouri is officially up and running in Downtown St. Joseph.

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce along with local entrepreneur founders held a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house to christen the new public work space. The new space offers technological resources, mentorship and collaborative opportunities with other businesses.

“This is something we’ve (St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce, local entrepreneur founders) been working on for over a year. To see it all come together and what the intent of the space is a full-circle moment,” St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Natalie Hawn said. “We soft-launched on Dec. 1 and hard-launched in January, were already almost at capacity with our office space.”

The Launch Pad is the result of key collaborative efforts between the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce, Mosaic Life Care and groups like the Show-Me Network and Missouri Technology Corporation, which has provided a three-year grant to develop and manage the space.

Part of the idea to create the Launch Pad is further building on St. Josephs history of entrepreneurship.

A set of cubicles and personalized offices are shown in November inside the Launch Pad at 113 N. 9th St in Downtown St. Joseph.

“We (St. Joseph) were literally founded by entrepreneurs. Historically, we have so many businesses grow into multi-billion dollar companies from innovative ideas like the saltine cracker or a serum,” Hawn said. “We believe success always breeds success. This is something we want people to tell others about, have testimonials to welcome all with open arms and provide resources.”

The early launch has already benefitted businesses, including one tech startup that’s added three employees since being able to secure a space at the Launch Pad, a big jump from it’s early days working out of local coffee shops.

One of the entrepreneurs involved with the Launch Pad’s opening is Jamie Donaldson, who’s already seen businesses find their footing thanks to access to the space. As the co-founder of Juniper Lane and a personal development company, Donaldson knows firsthand the challenges associated with getting a business or personal venture off the ground.

“As an entrepreneur, one of the hardest things is taking that first step, that big leap,” Donaldson said. “Figuring out all of the unknowns like paperwork and requirements. This is a great place to get all those answers and have other people who are in the same boat. It’s that group mentality, the motivation that really builds each other up to be around like minded people who have a similar kind of mindset.”

The Launch Pad is located on 113 N 9th St. For information and questions about reserving a space visit stjlaunchpad.com.

A lunch and meeting space is shown in November inside the Launch Pad at 113 N. 9th St. in Downtown St. Joseph.

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Zach Blanke

ST. JOSEPH, MO (KQTV) — A homeschool sports organization looks to give kids around the area a chance at participating in different sports programs.

St. Joseph Defenders Athletic Director Josh Castor leads the way for the program

“I think sports are important, and we are here to provide that opportunity for homeschool kids to play sports,” said Castor.

Matt McCurley is the head coach for the boys varsity basketball team and is a big proponent of spreading the word and trying to get as many kids involved as possible.

McCurley also wants it to be known that the competition is just as real as sports played in schools.

“It’s a very fun, Christian-based affiliation for kids to just come out here and compete and have fun,” said McCurley. “It’s competitive. Sometimes people think that homeschool might be a couple (of) notches below the high school level, but it’s really not.”

The Defenders are set to play their next home game at 8 p.m. on Feb. 9 at the Eastside Baptist Church.

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Cameron Montemayor

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — A local nonprofit received a special parting gift this week from a former North Shoppes business that recently closed its doors.

Pivotal Point Transitional Housing announced via social media Wednesday it received a large donation in the form of a truckload of store items from Kirkland’s Home, this coming after the North Shoppes business closed its doors.

“Kirkland’s gifted us with a (literal) truckload of amazing decor to redecorate our apartments and youth home. Our hearts are so full!” a Facebook post from Pivotal Point stated. “We appreciate Kirkland’s generous donation and we are so incredibly thankful to the Lord for this wonderful blessing.”

Pivotal Point Transitional Housing is a Christ-centered nonprofit seeking to help homeless individuals, families and youth achieve self-sufficiency with the assistance of 90-day, rent- and utility-free furnished housing. The nonprofit also operates a thift shoppe on Frederick Avenue.

Kirkland’s Home, a Tennessee-based store founded in 1966, announced last October it would close as many as 25 U.S. locations by January 2026 due to lease expirations.

Kirkland’s and its parent company Brand House Collective were acquired last fall as part of a merger agreement with Bed Bath & Beyond, part of a comeback effort after the company filed for bankruptcy in 2023 and closed all of its stores, including St. Joseph.

The St. Joseph Kirkland’s store was one of multiple locations not included in Bed Bath and Beyond’s conversion plan.

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Carter Ostermiller

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) — The temperatures have been colder than usual lately, prompting residents to turn up the heat in their homes. 

The St. Joseph Fire Department shared some tips on their Facebook page to prevent the heat from becoming a fire.

Cooking incidents are the number one cause of house fires, according to SJFD.

Turning off unattended kitchen appliances when frying, grilling, boiling and broiling. Keeping combustible products away from heat, such as paper products and towels. 

Anything that can burn should be kept at least 3 feet away from heaters, stoves, fireplaces and furnaces. 

Portable heaters should be turned off when leaving a room or sleeping and never plugged into an extension cord.

Replace damaged cords and properly route running cords to avoid contact with flammable objects.

If a grease fire starts, do not use water to put it out.

Always make sure to have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors ready. Having them tested and fully charged is vital for their use.

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Cameron Montemayor

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — South Side residents will see the official launch of a new drive-thru coffee shop on Lake Avenue starting next week.

The Daily Grind Coffee, located at 5804 Lake Ave. next to Sonic, announced via social media it will open for business at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 3.

The menu for the Daily Grind Coffee will include lattes, Frappuccino’s, espresso and various baked goods like cinnamon rolls and food items like breakfast burritos. The shop’s official menu will be launched in the coming days.

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TaMya Bracy

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) —  The St. Joseph Catholic Academy hosted its annual Prayer Breakfast and Fundraiser at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Wednesday morning.

The event aims to bring together community members, supporters of Catholic education and local leaders for a morning of prayer, fellowship, and conversation.

The event opened with a blessing of the food by Bishop James V. Johnston, Jr., followed by remarks from SJCA President Natalie Newville celebrating the academy’s achievements and activities over the past year.

Attendees heard from Lamar Hunt, Jr., a businessman, member of the founding family of the Kansas City Chiefs and owner of the Kansas City Mavericks.

Hunt attended St. Michael the Archangel Catholic High School and is passionate about supporting Catholic education, something he said has integrity.

“It talks about the mind, the body, the will and the soul. It brings all those into a person’s life. That they can integrate their lives so they can find their true mission,” he said. “Obviously, our goal is to go to heaven, of course, but we have to live this life, and it’s a great adventure. That’s one of the things that is brought to our attention in a catholic education.”

Hunt said he hopes attendees were influenced by his talk to support the St. Joseph Catholic Academy.

“It’s worth it. These schools have been here for many, many years. They make an impact on the community,” he said. “There’s a steadiness it gives kids a chance to find their true calling. A call that’s put on their lives…It also strengthens families. It brings families together. Part of faith is very simply loving God, but loving our neighbor, and being a service to others.”

The event concluded with a prayer led by Father Steve Hansen.

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Leah Rainwater

PLATTSBURG, Mo. (KQTV) — The Clinton County Commissioners approved a historic ballot question for the upcoming April 2026 election, bringing the issue to voters.

The “Justice Center Project”, a proposal seeking voter approval for the construction of a new, modern detention center, a comprehensive renovation of the county’s courtrooms, circuit clerk’s office and prosecutor’s office to ensure full ADA compliance.

The decision marks a significant milestone in a collaborative effort between the County Commissioners, the Clinton County Sheriff, Judicial Staff and the County Prosecutor.

For over 20 years, the state of the current detention center has been a point of concern for local officials.

The Commission said various plans have been previously discussed; however, the solidification of the Justice Center Project appearing on the ballots marks the first time a unified solution has reached in the process.

“This is a historic moment for Clinton County,” said the Commissioners in a joint statement through a news release. “By working collectively with our Sheriff, Justice Staff, Prosecutor and Circuit Clerk legal, we have developed a plan that prioritizes public safety and accessibility. For the first time in over two decades, we are bringing a comprehensive, long-term solution to the people of Clinton County.”

The project focuses on two primary pillars: A new detention center and courtroom renovations.

Approval of the measure would replace the outdated 50+ year-old facility with a modern structure designed for improved safety, efficient operations, mental health needs and future growth.

Courtroom renovations would consist of revamping existing courtrooms to meet standards for the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring the halls of justice are accessible to every citizen in Clinton County.

Until the April election, the Commissioners and other elected officials will engage in a public outreach campaign to provide residents with detailed information regarding the project’s impact, design and necessity.

“We believe the Justice Center Project is the best path forward for our community,” the Commission said. “We look forward to sharing our vision with the public and working together to secure a safer, more accessible future for Clinton County.”

The Commission said further details on public town halls and informational sessions will be released in the coming weeks.

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Cameron Montemayor

CLINTON COUNTY, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Clinton County voters will be asked to support a ballot measure this April to address critical infrastructure needs within county’s legal and correctional systems.

Clinton County Commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved a ballot question for the April 2026 election seeking voter approval for the “Justice Center Project,” a widespread modernization plan to fund construction of a new detention center and comprehensive renovations to the county’s courtrooms, circuit clerk’s office and prosecutor’s office.

The move is a significant milestone for public safety improvement goals in the county and represents the first time a unified solution has reached this stage in the election process, following months of planning. For more than two decades, the state of the current detention center has been a point of concern for local officials.

“This is a historic moment for Clinton County,” Commissioners said in a joint statement. “By working collectively with our Sheriff, Justice Staff, Prosecutor, and Circuit Clerk legal, we have developed a plan that prioritizes public safety and accessibility. For the first time in over two decades, we are bringing a comprehensive, long-term solution to the people of Clinton County.”

The Justice Center Project focuses on two primary pillars:

A New Detention Center: Replacing the outdated 50+ year-old facility with a modern structure designed for improved safety, efficient operations, mental health needs and future growth.

Courtroom Renovations: Fully renovating existing courtrooms to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring that the halls of justice are accessible to every citizen of Clinton County.

The Commission and other elected officials will engage in a public outreach campaign between now and the April election to provide residents with detailed information regarding the project’s impact, design, and necessity.

Details on public town halls and informational sessions will be released in the coming weeks, according to a news release from the Clinton County Commissioners Office.

“We believe the Justice Center Project is the best path forward for our community,” the Commission added. “We look forward to sharing our vision with the public and working together to secure a safer, more accessible future for Clinton County.”

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Prajukta Ghosh

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) — A registered nurse in Medical Oncology at Mosaic’s Cancer Center took a chance to compete in a challenge from a fitness app created by Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Jeremi Dierenfeldt and his wife Danielle entered the Iron Ticket Contest, a challenge on Schwarzenegger’s fitness app, “The Pump Club.”

In the effort of winning, the couple was able to meet and work out with Schwarzenegger.

“It’s a Pump Club app developed by Arnold Schwarzenegger and his team. It has workouts and stuff like that you can do for different programs based on your experience level and what you have access to,” Dierenfedlt said.  

He explained one of the biggest draws of the app is the strong community aspect. Members can post within the app, interact with each other and even attend meetups, which are held in different locations from time to time. 

Dierenfeldt said the app team booked flights and a hotel in Los Angeles, while the actual workout took place in Venice.  

“It was a bucket list goal for me to do that. And when it did happen, it was so surreal because I have been a big Arnold Schwarzenegger fan since I was a kid,” Dierenfedlt said.  

While meeting Schwarzenegger was the highlight of the experience, Dierenfeldt said what surprised him most was how down-to-earth he was.  

During and after the workout, he was able to get plenty of tips from Schwarzenegger and even take several photos with him.  

“After the workout happened, we went to his office and had breakfast there. We were able to see the movie props and other things in his office. It was neat to see the shotgun from Terminator 2 and all those things,” Dierenfedlt said.  

He encouraged others to download the Pump Club app, highlighting how it offers different membership options, including monthly and yearly plans.  

Dierenfeldt said he joined the app on launch day, making him one of its founding members.  

“They offered just a limited number towards a lifelong memberships but the app has grown a lot ever since it launched a couple of years ago,” Dierenfeldt added.  

He also said the app offers a one-week free trial, giving users a chance to explore it and see if it’s something they want to continue using.  

Dierenfeldt emphasized that being a longtime Arnold Schwarzenegger fan is a big reason he supports the app, but said the platform stands on its own.  

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Patrick Holleron

Correction: A previous version of this article included an incorrect link for online directions to purchase tickets. The correct address is JoMoTickets.com. News-Press apologizes for this error.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — The St. Joseph Dance Arts Company is gearing up for a live performance of a classic novel at the Missouri Theater this Saturday.

On Saturday, Jan. 31, the Dance Arts Performing Company will showcase two performances of the “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. in the Historic Missouri Theater. The classic children’s novel — written in 1900 and adapted to the big screen in 1939 — tells the story of Dorothy and her Dog Toto traveling from Kansas to the land of Oz.

The choreography for the performance, which includes ballet, jazz, tap and other contemporary art forms, was created by instructors at The Dance Arts Center, including Artistic Director Marla Heeler. The Dance Arts Performing Company is affiliated with The Dance Arts Center which offers comprehensive dance instruction for ages 3 through adult.

The latest performance continues the group’s goal of incorporating new styles to provide a unique experience with each show. Some, including last year’s The Nutcracker, Alice in Wonderland, and previous shows like The Dark Fairy and American Quartet, have been completely original works with original music and choreography by dancers from St. Joseph and surrounding communities.

“If we always do the same thing as everyone else, there’s no good reason for people to continue to show interest in what we have to offer,” Heeler said. “We have over 30 of our dancers in this production and they have been learning the choreography and rehearsing to bring a fun and lively performance to our audience.”

Admission can be purchased at JoMoTickets.com or at the door the day of the performances, with Adults being $15, and Loge Seating $20.

Additional information or questions can be found at TheDanceArtsCenter.com or by calling 816-233-5442.

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