Good morning, Saint Joseph.

The Northside Pride Association partnered with Strong Tower Baptist Church to provide free back-to-school haircuts and supplies to local students, easing a financial burden on families.

The event, held for the fourth year (fourth consecutive year), featured licensed stylists and free lunches (with hygiene bags and school supplies provided) for children from preschool to high school.

Robidoux Resident Theatre wrapped up its summer Jr program on August 9 by teaching local kids theatre skills through workshops—including a reenactment of Aladdin led by Benton High School teacher Colton Connors—to boost their confidence.

High schoolers like Will Calderwood and Abagail Stanton benefited from the experience and are eager to explore acting further.

MoWest is preparing for its 2025 homecoming on October 3 and 4 with the Alumni Awards Banquet on October 3 at 6:00 p.m. and a campus parade on October 4 at 3:30 p.m.—followed by a tailgate from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. and a Griffon Football game against Emporia State at 6:00 p.m.

St. Joseph School District Board of Education President LaTonya Williams wants a financial audit after an August 8 meeting showed errors in the district’s 2024-25 budget where spending went over plan (the audit is meant to clear up mistakes found in year-end reports and address lower funds for next school year). Some board members have debated the idea as they prepare for tonight’s special public board meeting to decide next steps.

Missouri’s rural hospitals are facing a tough future as the new federal budget plan will cut Medicaid spending by over $1 trillion over the next decade and put four local hospitals at risk of closing while emergency rooms become more crowded.

Mercy and other providers expect annual revenue losses and rising costs that may lead to higher insurance premiums—adding strain to local health care services.

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.