Good morning, Saint Joseph.

Panhandling is common in St. Joseph and city officials are dealing with its impact on traffic and safety—local groups warn that giving money may sometimes feed problems like addiction.

The city offers help from agencies such as United Way—resources available to support those in need.

St. Joseph Christian School is expanding its campus with a 28,000 square foot addition — including a new 1,000-seat gymnasium, flex classrooms, and a commons area — to boost enrollment from 515 to 700 by year-end.

School officials are relying on community donations to help meet the nearly $10 million building campaign with about $500,000 still needed.

The St. Joseph School Board is asking residents to complete a two-minute online survey by May 7 for feedback on the rejected $157 million bond proposal and to help shape plans for addressing school inequality and operational inefficiency—board member Mike Moore said the board will use the comments to inform its next steps. The board is also inviting community members to apply for the remaining seat after Rick Gehring’s resignation—candidates will be interviewed before a final decision is made.

St. Joseph City Council discussed a potential sewer rate adjustment during their Monday meeting, and some residents worried about rising costs after recent increases.

City Manager Mike Schumacher said the council will study the changes and hold a public hearing (June 9) for citizen input.

Mayor John Josendale will hold the Mayor's National Day of Prayer Breakfast today at 6:45 a.m. at the St. Joseph Civic Arena.

Olympic gold medalist Leah Amico (three-time champion with USA Softball) will serve as the guest speaker while the public is invited to attend free first-come seating without breakfast included.

St. Joseph Mayor John Josendale will deliver his annual State of the City address at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 14 at the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce's Public Affairs Coffee at inspireU Children's Discovery Center—registration costs are $15 for Chamber members and $20 for the general public, with the address available online for those who cannot attend.

St. Joseph native Noah Cameron took a no-hitter into the seventh inning in his Major League debut on Wednesday night—he pitched 6.1 innings with one hit and three strikeouts as he left the game with the Royals ahead 3-0.

2024-2025 Downtown Sculpture Walk

6:30-8 p.m. — St Joseph Downtown Partnership — Free entry — Experience a year-long exhibit showcasing stunning outdoor sculptures by national artists in Downtown St. Joseph.

Apple Blossom Parade

9:30-10:00 a.m. — St Joseph Aquatic Park — Free entry — Experience the vibrant kickoff of the annual Apple Blossom Parade with a community-focused 5K run/walk.

2024-2025 Downtown Sculpture Walk

6:30-8 p.m. — St Joseph Downtown Partnership — Free entry — Experience a year-long outdoor gallery of stunning sculptures throughout Downtown St. Joseph.

C.J. Newsom’s Classic Country & Comedy Show

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Scottish Rite Temple — Dinner menu available — Enjoy an entertaining mix of classic country music and comedy with acclaimed performances and laughter.

We The Kingdom Unplugged

7:30-9 p.m. — Missouri Theater — Tickets from $28 — Experience an intimate concert with We The Kingdom, delivering heartfelt music and electrifying performances.

Recreation Fair

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Joyce Raye Patterson 50+ Activity Center — Free entry — Discover the fun recreational opportunities available for adults in St. Joseph and surrounding areas.

Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival

10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Castle Bridge Event Center — Tickets available — Experience live entertainment and artisanal crafts in a family-friendly atmosphere.