Category: knpn-local-news

Payton Counts

ST. JOSEPH, Mo (News-Press NOW) — Fall has officially arrived, creating excitement for a cool down compared to summer temperatures.

The autumn equinox is a day when daylight and darkness are nearly equal. The word equinox comes from the Latin words aequi, meaning equal, and nox, meaning night. 

Specifically, autumn arrived at 1:19 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, marking an official start to the season.

Back before clocks were invented, the sun’s position had to be tracked in order to tell time. They were able to figure out that there were two days of the year when the sun rises almost due east and sets due west.  

Due to the way Earth’s atmosphere refracts sunlight, we get a little more daylight, but it still comes out to nearly 12 hours for both day and night.

Across the Northern hemisphere, people celebrate the equinox in different ways. 

For some, it’s simply grabbing your favorite fall-flavored coffee. For others, it may mean festivals, food and traditions. 

The “Wheel of the Year” is a symbolic cycle of eight seasonal festivals that dates back to ancient Celtic culture.

“There are three harvest festivals,” said Summer Kemmey, owner of Traveler’s Hearth. “There’s the Lughnasadh, which is the first harvest, and then there’s Mabon, which is the autumn equinox, and then the Samhain, which is what we call Halloween.”

The calendar is meant to connect with nature and its cycles.

Mabon, in particular, emphasizes balance as it takes place during a time of nearly equal days and nights.

The Celts used it to give thanks to the natural world for a plentiful harvest and a time to reflect on the months past and how to reset going forward.

Today, celebrations vary depending on culture and community. But no matter how you celebrate the day, the equinox carries the same reminder as it did in ancient times — winter is right around the corner.

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Charles Christian

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Banking scam texts are being reported in the St. Joseph area, following nationwide trends of scammers trying to fish for personal information and money via texts.

Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett said that scammers are continuing to find ways to extract information through deception and fear, often sending scam texts to vulnerable populations.

“I think the biggest point to make is what scammers do is rely on fear,” Puett said. “So, do not engage, do not provide them any information, like birthdates and socials.”

Texts asking for money or making threats should be avoided.

Puett also said that law enforcement on the city and county levels are experiencing more training on cyber crimes, including crimes involving texts. So, they are relying on public media and other educational opportunities at all age levels to help combat the issue.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported losing around $470 million due to scams in 2024.

Experts hope that communities become more aware and are able to cut that number significantly in the future.

Sheriff Puett said informing law enforcement of the scams received, including using the tip line at 816-238-TIPS, will ensure that the scam attempt gets to the proper investigating body.

Meanwhile, following the basic rule of never clicking on unknown links or sharing personal data (especially financial data) through text or online should be the rule of thumb.

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News-Press NOW

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — In a press release sent to News-Press NOW, the City of St. Joseph, on behalf of the St. Joseph Health Department, announced medical information may have been compromised in its June security breach.

An investigation was completed, following the incident, on Sept. 4; however, it was determined that certain files may have been acquired without authorization.

The City found no evidence of patient information being misused during its investigation.

Information acquired may consist of: first and last names, date of birth, driver’s license number or state identification number, passport number, Social Security number and medical diagnosis of treatment information.

The City is providing a written notice to individuals whose personal health information was impacted. It also said the types of information affected were different for each individual.

In the written press release, the City said it “has no reason to believe that any patient’s information has been misused as a result of this event.”

City Health press releaseDownload

Upon detecting the incident, the City has investigated with IT specialists and confirmed the security of its network environment. The City has also notified St. Joseph law enforcement and made immediate enhancements to its systems.

Individuals seeking more information or questions about this incident are encouraged to call 1-833-844-5829 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

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Alec Pascuzzi

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — The Saint Joseph Symphony recently launched a new program known as “Play It Forward”.

Through “Play It Forward,” The Saint Joseph Symphony will donate tickets to community members who may not be able to attend.

The program partners with schools, social service agencies and other community organizations to make sure everyone can experience the Saint Joseph Symphony.

“Music belongs to everyone,” said Nancy Schmidt-Brunson, the executive director of the Saint Joseph Symphony. “When someone ‘plays it forward,’ by donating a ticket, they’re not just giving a seat in the concert hall- they’re giving inspiration, joy, and a memory that could last a lifetime.”

The Saint Joseph Symphony is encouraging the community to get involved.

When purchasing tickets, simply add a “Play It Forward” donation or visit saintjosephsymphony.org to make a direct contribution.

For more details about the program, call 816-233-7701.

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News-Press NOW

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — St. Joseph residents are invited to a Financial Literacy event taking place on Monday, Oct. 13.

While banks will be closed on Columbus Day, employees at Equity Bank will be hosting the event from 9 to 11 a.m. at the St. Joseph YWCA, located at 304 N. 8th St.

For more information about the event, call Equity Bank at 816-233-6111.

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Praji Ghosh

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) —  The St. Joseph Bucks aren’t just about football. This team is all about coming together, not only on the field but also out in the community. 

Their program is designed to make a positive impact—supporting the city, backing each other up, and preparing players to give back in meaningful ways.  

Quarterback Keante Green says being part of the Bucks is about much more than football. 

“They do a lot of events back to schools, book-bag drop  offs and I love giving back and being part of it and so the bucks embrace us like a family, culture and has a community vibe,” Green said.  

The Bucks play in a semi-professional development league, open to anyone 18 and older who has a passion for the game. For some, it’s a way to build friendships and de-stress  

For others, it’s a stepping stone toward higher-level competition.  

“Some people look at it like if they want to get away from their everyday life or work or stress, they can just take it out on the field and have some fun with it,” White said.  

While the next full season won’t kick off until next year, the team has a Halloween ball game scheduled in early November, complete with a cheer team dance-off. They’re also preparing for an arena matchup in March against the Omaha Beef.  

“We just create a vibe where the community loves to be around so people are encouraged to come watch us play and everybody wants to win and bring success,” Green said.  

Green says the team is always looking for fresh talent, especially recent high school graduates who didn’t get enough recruiting attention.  

He also highlights how players like Austin White have been going to for tryouts to different places which helps them expand their skills.  

“I love being part of this community and meeting new faces and getting to know people who are really just there to smile and also to help other people connect with one another,” White said.  

The Bucks hope to keep building that legacy — creating opportunities for athletes while strengthening the bond with their community. 

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Kyle Schmidt

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — The historic homes built long ago and now preserved in the Museum Hill neighborhood have a new eye-catching piece.

Homeowner Karen Hauser wanted a mural painted on the side of her garage that pays homage to the historic district.

“We struggled to find the right mix,” Hauser said. “My daughter said, ‘Well he is putting it on the carriage house,’ my garage was a carriage house in the day, so we said, why not a horse and carriage.”

That horse on a carriage was placed on a cobblestone road and complemented with vibrant colors to draw the eyes of people passing by. Artist Devin Halbirt added Hawthorn flowers (the Missouri flower) to the ends of the mural as well.

“With the cobblestone road, giving that old timey feel, vintage feel…” Halbirt said. “I’m a visionary, so I really have to look at everything first and think about it in my mind and then it’ll come down on paper. It was step by step and then it came together.”

He said it took about a month to finish. Hauser moved to St. Joseph and into the house in 1994. She has a bachelor’s degree in art and an appreciation for the arts and the beauty of historic homes.

“I love the murals Downtown, I think they’re such an asset,” Hauser said. “It’s good for the economy, it’s something that brings people to town and it beautifies the community.”

She finds the Museum Hill Historic District to be a great spot in town because of its historic nature. St. Joseph Museums complex social media/tour guide Jerrad Hardin said the architecture is described as Victorian, but there’s much more to it.

“Some Islamic, Moorish influences, there’s just all kinds of interesting tidbits and of course an incredible example of what can be done with architecture,” Hardin said. “When people walk into the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion, they always remark, ‘Wow I can’t believe people do this.”

The Museum Hill walking tour consists of 34 historic homes and now at stop 22, the Vineyard-Kirby House, built in 1881, will have new art in front of the home.

“Hopefully it will inspire more people to buy up some of these homes that need a little TLC and some renovations,” Hauser said. “It’s quite an asset to this town and it’s lovely to live in.”

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Rebecca Evans

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Local residents and businesses have raised nearly $34,600 before the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s, on Saturday morning at St. Jo Frontier Casino.

More than 300 participants, representing 50 teams, participated, many wearing purple or personalized shirts in honor of loved ones affected by the disease.

“What I want people to know is, don’t be quiet. If you think something’s going on, it’s a doctor visit and testing,” said John Anderson, Chair Committee with Alzheimer’s Association, “Even though you might feel like you’re on an island, you’re dealing with the same thing hundreds of thousands of people are dealing with everyday, and there’s so many resources that can help people.”

The event carries new hope as recent treatments have progressed. There are medicines that can help slow the progression of the disease, and new blood biomarker tests approved by the FDA to help in early diagnosis.

“My mom passed away from Alzheimer’s, and my grandma and I was her caregiver,” said Mary Hopkins, Edward Jones, participant since 2016, “If I didn’t have the support of my family helping with my mom, I don’t know what I would have done.”

The Alzheimer’s Association Heart of America chapter will be fundraising through the end of the year to hit its goal of $1 million. Funds raised through the event will support local care programs, services and research. To register or learn more about services provided, visit alzwalkstjoe.org.

“We wished we’d known for our family members,” said Liz Rowe, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association, “Our goal is to provide awareness across the community through this walk, as well as raise funds for care, support, advocacy and research. Every dollar helps.”

If you or a family member are experiencing unusual memory issues, don’t wait; call 800-272-3900. This is a nationwide number, open 24/7, staffed by licensed social workers and clinicians.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 7 million Americans are living with the disease, including about 122,300 Missourians and 54,500 Kansans. Nearly 12 million family members and friends nationwide provide unpaid care for those living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

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Carter Ostermiller

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Missouri Western State University will be hosting its 43rd Annual Alumni Awards banquet to celebrate its 2025 Alumni Award winners.

The Alumni Awards feature six award categories. MoWest had announced 11 recipients.

The Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor given to MoWest Alumni. The 2025 winner is Jim Reinert. The award recognizes alumni for professional and career achievements.

The Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) Award recognizes individuals early in their careers who have achieved outstanding accomplishments. The 2025 winner is Colton Saunders.

The Herb ’35 and Peggy Iffert Award for Outstanding Service to the University winners are Dr. Robert and Kimberly Sigrist. The award is given to recipients who show outstanding and continuous commitment to MoWest’s mission, vision and legacy.

The Distinguished Faculty Award winner is Teddi Deka. The award is given to a current faculty member in recognition of a lasting influence on students, excellence in teaching, career accomplishments and professional and ethical standards.

The Great Griffon Awards winners are Terry Brock, Phallin Thornton and Tona Williams. The award is given to those alumni from each college and school who exhibit outstanding contributions to the workforce, society or the university. 

The Alumni Student Leadership Awards winners are Mackenzie DeVine, Lauren Nylund and Mariana Casadiego Morales. This award recognizes students graduating from the current academic year who have made an impact on the University through leadership, volunteerism or humanitarianism. 

The award show will take place at 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3, in MoWest’s Fulkerson Center.

For more information on the banquet and to RSVP online, visit the Alumni Awards Banquet page.

For more information about the awards and their winners, you can visit the MoWest award winners page.

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Charles Christian

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — The love of music transcends skill levels and age levels, and a local music academy provides a musical experience for all ages.

The St. Joseph Arts Academy, located at 2027 N. 36th St., just off the Belt Highway, has been providing private lessons and music classes for all ages for eight years.

Academy Founder, Jason Riley, a longtime professional musician and guitar teacher in the St. Joseph area, said his hope has always been to help people engage with music at their level and to grow in the knowledge and appreciation of music.

“Music has meant so much to me in my own life,” Riley said. “I met my wife through music, music allowed me to become a teacher and it has allowed me to connect with so many people. So, I wanted to help create a community that fostered that kind of environment.”

Riley added that he has seen this kind of community among the growing number of teachers, students, parents and community members over the last eight years.

“Our students often get asked to participate in events like Bluegrass Battles Hunger and Hawkfest at Coleman Hawkins Park,” Riley said. “We really want to encourage the next generation of musicians who can make music fresh and in person and live. Music is for everyone.”

The Academy takes the idea of “everyone” seriously, now offering infant and toddler music classes that can begin as early as age one.

“It’s one of the most important things we do,” Riley said. “We do early childhood classes from age one to about five or six, and by five or six, they’re probably getting interested in piano, violin, or guitar. We have qualified teachers for all of those instruments.”

Classes are open for skilled musicians who want to gain proficiency on their instrument, as well as those of all ages who want to take up a musical hobby or to reacquaint themselves with music.

Those interested should begin by checking out the website at stjosephartsacademy.com or by calling 816-974-7656.

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