Good morning, Saint Joseph.

Renew Church in St. Joseph hosted Vacation Bible School with a swamp theme and built a full swamp set to immerse children in a journey of faith—designed to remind them that they are valued and full of potential.

Pastor Josh Coverett said the detailed setup aims to leave a lasting impact on the children.

In Faucett, activist Cassandra Switlik started a Facebook group called Rural Community Growth that quickly reached over 200 members to discuss the subdivision approved by Buchanan County Commissioners near Mid-Buchanan R-V School—residents express concerns over potential tax hikes and impacts on farmland productivity.

River Bluff Brewing will host Raise a Pint for Pets starting August 9 at 5 p.m. and running until September 5—featuring craft beer, adoptable pets, and raffle prizes—to benefit the St. Joseph Animal Shelter.

For each Arrowhead Red draft pint sold, River Bluff Brewing and Purina will each donate $1 while the event concludes with a tailgate party on September 5 from 4 to 6:30 p.m.

At around 6:20 p.m. Thursday, St. Joseph Police reported that a man driving a fully loaded semi-truck left the I-229 double decker bridge east toward Felix Street when he took a turn too fast or wide, which caused his truck to flip over and left him in critical condition at Mosaic Life Care (the truck’s heavy load likely affected its handling) while crews inspected the bridge (police stressed the need to follow speed limits).

The Salvation Army in St. Joseph is offering backpacks and school supplies including crayons, notebooks, pencils, and folders for students before the 25-26 school year begins — any remaining items will be available for pick-up at United Way on Monday.

Buchanan County (R-IV) voters approved the school bond issue again with 92% support on Tuesday after a filing error sent the proposal back to the ballot.

The ($2 million bonds) will pay for renovations at Dekalb high school and updates at Rushville elementary while delays may push projects like a new track to start after football season.

Buchanan County Commissioners approved a plan for an upscale apartment complex behind the YMCA on Village Drive — Bryant Properties, a Springfield company that will cover all legal fees for the land, will develop 200 market-rate units with construction set to begin in a future February and March. The project is expected to boost local housing options for young professionals.

The Kansas City Chiefs have been practicing in St. Joseph at Missouri Western State University and are preparing for their preseason game against the Cardinals on Saturday at 7 p.m., with quarterback Patrick Mahomes noting the team is pushing for explosive plays.

Head coach Andy Reid said a rotating quarterback strategy will see Mahomes start in the first quarter while the team holds three more local practices before returning to MoWest on Monday at 10:15 a.m.—a plan to maintain their fast pace into the regular season.

Firefighter Memorial 5K

8-9 a.m. — St. Joseph Firefighter Memorial — Entry fee supports the Firefighter's Memorial — Participate in a 5K run/walk to honor local heroes and support the community.

Bill Snyder Woman of Impact Award Ceremony

5-7 p.m. — Stoney Creek Hotel St. Joseph — $25 — Celebrate the achievements of Ali Perry and fellow inductees at the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame ceremony.

2025 Inaugural Pony Express Girls State High School Volleyball Preview Tournament

2:30-8:45 p.m. — St. Joseph Civic Arena — Ticket info pending — Witness exciting high school volleyball action from 16 teams as they gear up for the season.