Good morning, Saint Joseph.

Missouri Western State University used its annual Griffs Giving Day to raise funds for an on-campus food pantry that has helped nearly 100 students and the local community fight food insecurity.

President Elizabeth Kennedy said the pantry provides fresh, healthy options in an easy, no-stigma way.

Area students earned a spot on Mizzou’s Fall Dean’s list for outstanding academic performance in Fall 2025+an honor recognizing local talent from Saint Joseph and neighboring counties, as announced by the university.

MidCity Excellence will host its 12th annual MLK Jr. Solutions Summit at Word of Life Church – MYC Fellowship Hall on Monday, Jan.

19, celebrating 25 years of educating local youth. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. with alumni panelists sharing their journeys to becoming workforce-ready, trauma-informed and opioid-free.

United Way seeks volunteers and book donations for its Reading Adventure Program, matching elementary students with reading helpers in January and February at schools including Carden Park and Lindbergh.

Helpers can sign up for flexible support — one-time or recurring — to boost reading skills this winter in Saint Joseph.

MoDOT is urging local residents to report suspicious behavior as it trains employees at transit hubs and highway rest areas ahead of National Human Trafficking Awareness Day on Sunday, Jan.

11. The effort comes after Missouri saw a rise in trafficking cases, and officials stress vigilance to protect vulnerable individuals.

North Central Missouri College’s Savannah campus was awarded a $1.37M HRSA grant in late 2025 to expand its health workforce training in partnership with Mosaic Life Care.

The grant will improve behavioral health care coordination for vulnerable populations in the community.

Missouri Western State University will start selling beer and wine at home basketball games starting tomorrow, Jan.

10, at the MWSU Fieldhouse during both men's and women's contests. Alcohol will be sold in plastic containers with trained staff to ensure safety and follow state regulations.

Andre Moore, a Saint Joseph boxer who shifted from football dreams to boxing, has fought three professional matches and will take on his fourth bout on Feb.

13 while balancing work and coaching kids at his gym (he credits his daughter for his renewed drive).

Winter Renewal: A Wellness Retreat

10 AM – 4 PM — Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art — $125 — Experience a restorative day with yoga, meditation, and creative arts in a tranquil museum setting.

Galentine's Paint & Sip

6-8 p.m. — The Den — Ticket required — Celebrate love and friendship with a fun paint project and a welcome drink.

DiOzzy Concert

6:30-10 p.m. — Good Times Event Center — All ages welcome — Experience the debut of DiOzzy, Kansas City's tribute to Black Sabbath.