Today's latest

Residents will have an opportunity to meet candidates for the St. Joseph School Board this week during a public forum hosted by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber will hold its next Public Affairs Coffee session Wednesday, March 4, at the Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center. All candidates running for seats on the city’s school board have been invited to participate.

Candidates are scheduled to speak before Chamber members and the public from 7:30 to 9 a.m. The event includes breakfast, and a registration fee will be charged.

Those interested in attending can register at saintjoseph.com or by calling 816-232-4461.

Voters in St. Joseph will select their next school board members during the April 7 election.

Chillicothe is preparing for the summer tourism season and the arrival of the World Cup in Kansas City.

At the February meeting of the city’s Convention and Visitors Bureau Tourism Board held last Thursday, staff members continued planning efforts aimed at attracting World Cup spectators out of the Kansas City area with a variety of offerings and day-trip destinations.

Tourism Director Amy Supple said the city is working to make it easy for visitors staying in Kansas City for an extended period to explore the surrounding region.

“We are making it easy for folks visiting Kansas City for an extended period of time to find things to do in our region,” Supple said. “I work closely with the Highway 36 ‘Way of American Genius’ group, offering some itineraries and promoting that, and promoting Chillicothe.”

The Highway 36 “Way of American Genius” initiative encourages road trippers to explore destinations along Highway 36 across northern Missouri.

Kansas City will host World Cup matches in June and July. During that same time, Supple said, Chillicothe hosts several of its largest annual events, including Sliced Bread Day and its annual car show.

“We’ve got outdoor concerts and wine walks and farmers markets all throughout that time, so we are really leaning into our events as well and inviting people to experience a slice of small-town life,” Supple said.

In addition to event planning and marketing projects, the tourism board works to book tour groups, weddings and conferences in area facilities. Supple said summer is the busiest season for visitation, meaning many of the city’s sales and booking activities are already underway.

The City of Trenton has updated its rules regarding farm animals kept within city limits.

The changes were approved earlier this week during a Trenton City Council meeting and amend Section 2-20 of the city code.

City Clerk Anita Ewing said multiple property owners currently keep farm animals inside city limits, and the revisions are intended to clarify expectations and outline procedures if issues arise.

“So basically as long as you're following the rules, your fence is in order and everything is going well,” Ewing said. “But this stipulates how [farm animals] become a nuisance and what to do when that happens.”

The updated ordinance clarifies requirements for noise levels and animal enclosures and establishes a hearing process to address complaints, conflicts or nuisance concerns.

According to city documents, all properties in Trenton where farm animals are currently kept were visited by city staff during the drafting process. Officials reported that each property appeared to be in compliance with existing standards.

Ewing said residents interested in keeping farm animals can review the updated ordinance at City Hall.

“They can stop by the city office and get a copy of the city ordinance. We do have some copies made,” she said.

Residents within Trenton city limits currently keep horses, chickens, other fowl and sheep, among other farm animals.

The Trenton City Council is moving forward with plans to demolish dozens of abandoned structures after receiving roughly $300,000 through the Community Development Block Grant program earlier this winter.

City officials began preparations for the project during this week’s council meeting. Funding will be used to tear down 24 abandoned homes and one commercial property within the city limits.

The Green Hills Regional Planning Commission is partnering with Trenton on the effort.

Trenton City Clerk Anita Ewing said the demolitions will have a positive impact on neighborhoods throughout the community.

“And so it will just help tremendously,” Ewing said. “It’ll help with the look of the property of the area and it just makes for a safer place to be.”

The Community Development Block Grant program is designed to support the well-being of Missouri communities and build greater capacity for growth. Funds may be used for a variety of community benefit projects.

More than $16 million was awarded to Missouri municipalities as part of the 2025 program.

The Rock Port Board of Aldermen held its first meeting in its renovated City Hall chambers last week, marking a return to the building after months of construction.

Meetings had been temporarily relocated while renovations were underway. With the chambers now complete, aldermen reconvened at City Hall for their Feb. 18 session.

Work on the building is ongoing. City officials said interior renovations are nearing completion, after which attention will shift to improvements on the front sidewalk and replacement of the building’s roof.

A new metal roof is estimated to cost about $22,000. Aldermen described the project as a necessary investment, noting the building has experienced water damage in the past.

During the meeting, Mayor Richard Chaney said he is also exploring the possibility of installing an electronic billboard on the building’s front facade. The display could be used to promote community events, city meetings and other announcements.

“For like homecoming you could have that coming across. You could have city meetings come across. People could hashtag City of Rock Port and we could approve those photos to come across, as well as having a notice of our meetings on it,” Chaney said.

Chaney said he has researched multiple billboard options, including one estimated to cost approximately $4,500.

The council did not approve specific expenditures during the meeting but is expected to finalize decisions at a future session.

The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art is set to showcase young talent from across the region with its annual Regional High School Exhibition.

The exhibit runs March 1 through April 12 and features a wide variety of student artwork spanning multiple media, techniques and styles.

An opening reception is scheduled for Sunday, March 1, from 1 to 4 p.m. Awards will be presented during a ceremony at 2 p.m., recognizing outstanding student achievement.

The annual exhibition highlights the importance of arts education and provides students the opportunity to display their work in a professional museum setting. Students whose artwork is selected will receive free museum admission throughout the duration of the show.

The opening reception is free and open to the public.

Regular museum admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $7 for students. Members and children younger than 6 are admitted free.

For more information, visit https://www.albrecht-kemper.org/ or call 816-233-7003.

The Downtown Maryville Market will return this summer to the parking lot behind Nodaway Valley Bank, once again expanding beyond the lot with a street closure on Buchanan Street between Third and Fourth streets.

The Maryville City Council approved the location at a meeting earlier this week.

Ryan Heiland said the market continues to see strong visitation numbers.

“Last year the market averaged 35 vendors and 336 guests per week, each spending an average of 66 minutes a week at the market,” Heiland said. “So we’ve made good growth over the past few years.”

Businesses in the area have been notified of the street closure, which will run from May 16 through Oct. 3 on Saturday mornings.

As the market has grown in popularity, the city is constructing a pavilion on North Main Street to create a permanent home for vendors. The City Council selected Brooner & Associates Construction earlier this month to complete the project.

The Shenandoah Chamber & Industry Association Ag Committee is encouraging graduating seniors from Shenandoah, Essex and Sidney high schools to apply for the Agriculture Future of America scholarship.

The scholarship is intended for students planning to pursue degrees in agriculture or food-related fields.

The Ag Committee partners with Agriculture Future of America to fund a $3,200 scholarship for area students. In addition to financial support, recipients gain access to AFA’s leadership development programs and industry networking opportunities.

Chamber officials say they are proud to support students pursuing careers that will strengthen rural communities and the agricultural industry for years to come.

Students can apply online at www.agfuture.org before the March 5 deadline.

For more information, contact the Shenandoah Chamber & Industry Association at 712-246-3455.

Missouri House lawmakers have unanimously passed legislation aimed at expanding affordable health coverage options for small businesses. The measure now heads to the Missouri Senate for consideration.

House Bill 2569, sponsored by Rep. Peggy McGaugh, R-Carrollton, updates state law and clarifies regulations governing small business health plans. McGaugh represents Missouri’s 7th House District, which includes the city of Chillicothe.

The bill strengthens pooled employer health plans that already serve tens of thousands of Missourians, including the Missouri Chamber Benefit Plan. The arrangement allows small employers with two to 50 employees to band together to access large-group style benefits and achieve more stable insurance costs.

Kara Corches, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, called the plan a “gamechanger.” The chamber endorsed the legislation, saying access to affordable, high-quality health coverage remains a top concern for Missouri’s business community.

The Maryville R-II School District has approved its academic calendar for the 2026-27 school year, with classes scheduled to begin Aug. 24 and conclude May 13.

The district’s typical school day will run 399 minutes, placing the calendar above the 1,044-hour threshold required by the state to qualify for funding.

Under Missouri statute, public schools may begin no earlier than 14 calendar days before Labor Day. Because Labor Day falls later on the calendar this year, the earliest allowable start date lands in late August.

Maryville was among more than 100 Missouri school districts that requested a waiver to begin classes earlier, according to Superintendent Philip Pohren.

“We had asked the state school board to allow us to start our calendar a few school days earlier,” Pohren said. However, he said the state board did not grant the waiver.

Aside from the later start date, Pohren said the calendar closely resembles previous years. Highlights include a two-week Christmas break, a week off around the Easter holiday and designated professional development time for staff.

The 2025-26 school year is scheduled to end May 14, with graduation ceremonies planned for May 10. Spring break is set for March 27 through April 6.

A rare mammoth bone has been discovered in Nodaway County by St. Joseph-based paleontologist Jason Howery, adding to his growing collection of Ice Age remains found in northwest Missouri.

Howery said the bone is believed to have belonged to a Columbian mammoth and was uncovered at what experts describe as a prehistoric butcher site — a location where ancient humans processed animals they hunted for food. Sites that still show evidence of human activity alongside Ice Age remains are considered extremely rare worldwide.

The discovery offers a potential glimpse into early human life in the region, as butcher sites can provide insight into hunting practices, tool use and migration patterns.

Howery, of St. Joseph, is now raising funds to conduct additional testing on the bone. Planned analysis includes CT scanning and radiocarbon dating to determine the specimen’s age and historical significance.

If confirmed, the find could further establish northwest Missouri as an area of notable prehistoric activity.

Northwest Missouri State University is closing a section of College Avenue beginning today through the end of the week to allow for construction work near Martindale Hall.

The closure affects College Avenue between North Ray Avenue and North Munn Avenue. University officials say the temporary shutdown is necessary for the demolition of an existing curb and sidewalk as part of ongoing construction around Martindale Hall.

Motorists and pedestrians are encouraged to use alternate routes during the closure.

For more information, contact Facility Services at 660-562-1183.

This could be a good week to visit a favorite local restaurant in St. Joseph.

The city’s annual Restaurant Week begins Monday and runs through Sunday, March 1. More than two dozen restaurants are participating, offering new menu items, special deals and events throughout the week.

The event is coordinated by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce for the seventh consecutive year. It is timed to support local restaurants during what is typically a slower period of the year, often referred to as the mid-winter lull.

Participating businesses include restaurants along the Belt Highway and in the city’s historic downtown district. Some locations are offering discounted menu items, while others are hosting special events.

More information is available on the Chamber’s website.

U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley called on Congress to pass several pro-farm policies during a visit to Clarinda earlier this week, saying federal action is needed to support struggling agricultural producers.

Grassley said one priority should be legislation allowing year-round sales of E15 fuel, a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol, much of it derived from corn. Agricultural leaders have pushed for expanded access to E15, arguing it would help reduce an oversupply of corn and boost farm income.

“If we get E15 approved year-round by law, corn growers say they will bring in $14 billion,” Grassley said.

Sales of E15 are currently restricted during the summer months in many areas due to air-quality concerns. Lawmakers circulated legislation in late January that would have lifted the seasonal restrictions, but the measure failed to pass. Discussions on the issue remain ongoing.

Grassley also criticized federal fertilizer tariffs, arguing they drive up input costs for farmers already facing tight margins.

“Biden put 18% tariffs on phosphate from Morocco and we’ve got a company in the United States with 80% of the market. Why do they need protection? They don’t,” Grassley said. “We’ve got tariffs on ammonia from Trinidad. We’ve got tariffs on potash. We shouldn’t have those things when farmers are losing $1.10 on corn and $2.50 on soybeans.”

Rather than relying on federal bailouts, Grassley said lawmakers should focus on policies that create a fair and competitive market, allowing farmers to operate profitably without government assistance.

Northwest Technical School has selected Nate Jeter as its next director, effective July 1.

The appointment was announced in a letter released Thursday afternoon by Maryville R-II School District Superintendent Philip Pohren.

Jeter brings a background in education and leadership, including six years as a high school science teacher in Tarkio and three years as the 7-12 principal and athletic director at Nodaway-Holt High School in Graham.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Peru State College and a master’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University.

Jeter’s wife, Sarah, is a social studies teacher at Maryville High School. The couple has two sons.

Northwest Technical School provides career and technical education and training for secondary and postsecondary students and operates as part of the Maryville R-II School District.

Mega Gymnastics and Cheer, a St. Joseph-based gym that offers youth programs and classes across northwest Missouri, has asked the St. Joseph City Council to support construction of a new facility on the city’s south side.

At its Feb. 17 meeting, the council heard a request to rezone a parcel at the intersection of South 11th Street and South 22nd Street from residential to commercial. The change would allow the business to build a new gym at the site.

Owner Mandy Miller told council members the company has grown significantly since opening in 2010.

“Mega opened in 2010 with 60 students and three staff members,” Miller said. “Over the past 15 years, we’ve grown to serve more than 800 kids and employ more than 50 employees. I am here to request the rezoning of the parcel at South 22nd Street and 11th Street to build the gym of our dreams and continue to be a positive and safe space for kids to learn and grow here in St. Joe.”

Youth and families from communities including Tarkio and Fairfax attended the meeting to voice support, saying the gym provides opportunities to compete and excel.

Some nearby residents, however, opposed the rezoning.

Julie Hertel, who lives on Libby Lane, said commercial zoning could negatively affect the neighborhood.

“This is an area that would be affected by a commercial rezoning,” Hertel said. “One in five businesses in the U.S. and in Missouri fail in the first year of operation. This leads to empty commercial space or businesses in the space different from what was proposed initially.”

Although Mega Gymnastics is an established business seeking a new facility, Hertel said the change could increase traffic and reduce residential opportunities in the area.

The council did not take action on the request and did not place it on a future agenda.

The St. Joseph City Council met in regular session Tuesday, Feb. 17, approving a series of measures related to public safety and park improvements.

Among the items approved was the purchase of new body armor and outer vest carriers for the St. Joseph Police Department. The equipment will be purchased from 9-1-1 Customs at a cost of just under $27,000.

The council also authorized the police department to apply for a state grant through the Missouri Department of Transportation Traffic and Highway Safety Division. If awarded, the grant would provide funding for traffic and DWI enforcement efforts, a youth alcohol enforcement program, and motorcycle safety and education initiatives.

In other action, the council approved a nearly $1 million contract to renovate Coleman Hawkins Park in downtown St. Joseph. The project includes construction of a new pavilion with seating and a stage.

Council members also approved additional design work for improvements at the Northside Aquatics Facility. Both park projects are funded through the city’s park sales tax.

The Missouri Legislative Black Caucus is joining the nation in mourning the death of civil rights activist the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr..

The caucus released a statement this week following Jackson’s death. Jackson was a protégé of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and the founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. He dedicated more than 60 years to advancing civil rights and social justice for marginalized communities around the world.

In its statement, the caucus said Jackson’s legacy helped shape generations of leaders and movements focused on equality and opportunity.

The Missouri Legislative Black Caucus represents Black members of the Missouri Senate and House of Representatives. Michael Johnson currently serves as chair of the caucus.

Fitting the month’s theme of love, Theatre Northwest will kick off its spring season with two productions Feb. 21 and 22.

The first production, “Treehouse,” is directed by student Remington Carter. The play follows 17-year-old Johnny, who believes he has the mind of a 53-year-old. As he grapples with adolescence, love and healing from loss, Johnny searches for what the script calls “the eternal summer that shall not fade.”

The second production, “Hearts Like Fists,” directed by student Korbin Horton, is a superhero comedy that explores the universal experiences of love and heartbreak.

Ticket and schedule information is available here.

The Theatre Northwest season will conclude with “The Squirrels,” running April 9-12.

Maryville Parks and Recreation has announced Maggie Rockwood as its new director.

Rockwood will assume the role March 17, following the retirement of former director Jeff Stubblefield.

Rockwood currently serves as assistant director and has been with the department since 2011, when she began as a part-time lifeguard. She became a full-time employee in 2019.

She is a graduate of the Leadership Maryville program and was named one of the “5 Under 35” recipients in 2022 by the Greater Maryville Chamber of Commerce.

Rockwood said she is looking forward to stepping into the new position.

“I’m excited. I’m a little bit nervous, I guess, to kind of take over in March, but I’m mostly excited and looking forward to it,” Rockwood said.

She said she plans to continue serving the Maryville community and wants to be someone residents can approach with questions or concerns regarding parks and recreation services.

A wound care study conducted in Maryville was one of 50 selected worldwide for presentation at a prestigious medical workshop in Iceland.

The case study from Mosaic Wound Care–Maryville was presented at the Northern Lights Wound Workshop in Reykjavik, Iceland. It was also featured at the Aurora Awards, an international forum recognizing outstanding clinical innovation in wound care.

The study examined the impact of advanced wound care products on a specific type of leg ulcer. The project aligns with the clinic’s ongoing commitment to advancing evidence-based care and improving outcomes for patients with chronic wounds.

The Northern Lights Wound Workshop is dedicated to advancing chronic wound management. Medical professionals from around the world submit studies for consideration. Submissions are evaluated by experts based on scientific merit, clinical relevance and innovation, with invitations extended to the highest-scoring entries.

St. Joseph Museums will induct three new members into its Black History Archives Hall of Fame this month.

The Hall of Fame honors Black individuals who have contributed to public life in St. Joseph and demonstrated leadership within their communities. New members are inducted annually in February.

This year’s inductees are Doyle Irvin Jr., Julie Vaughn and Georgia Tivis.

JD Soil, a board member of the St. Joseph Museums, said Irvin, a longtime St. Joseph barber, is known for his quiet service to others.

“He is a barber from St. Joseph. I’ve known him since I was a kid,” Soil said. “He’s been known to give kids haircuts who couldn’t afford it; he’s been known to help people in the community when they need it. He’s been one of those guys who’s not in anyone’s face, but behind the scenes he does a lot of good work.”

Vaughn, a member of the Black Archives Committee and the local chapter of the NAACP, is also being honored for her community leadership.

Tivis will receive a posthumous induction. Soil said Tivis, a St. Joseph native, served in the U.S. Army as part of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion — known as the “Six Triple Eight” — an all-Black women’s unit during World War II tasked with sorting and delivering millions of pieces of backlogged mail.

“It was a group of Black women during World War II who were tasked with sorting through millions and millions of unsent letters, and these women worked around the clock,” Soil said.

Soil encouraged anyone interested in learning more about Black history in St. Joseph to visit the Black History Archives at the St. Joseph Museums, which also houses the city’s Black Hall of Fame.

The induction ceremony for the 2026 class will take place at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, and is open to the public. Tickets can be reserved here.

The North Star Advocacy Center in Maryville has named Wyatt Williams as its new executive director.

Williams, a graduate of Northwest Missouri State University, brings experience in trauma-informed care, program coordination and community outreach. He has worked at the organization for more than four years.

During his time with North Star, Williams oversaw coordination of a food donation program, collaborated with community organizations across the five-county service area and helped develop presentations on sexual abuse and assault awareness curriculum for students.

As executive director, Williams said he plans to focus on supporting staff, strengthening community partnerships and advancing the organization’s mission.

The North Star Advocacy Center is a domestic and sexual violence advocacy organization serving Nodaway, Atchison, Gentry, Holt and Worth counties in northwest Missouri.

John Deere has recalled 245 workers in Iowa after mass layoffs. They'll be back on the job this month and next.

Prompted by weaker demand, a lagging agricultural economy and Trump administration tariffs on equipment, John Deere laid off workers across the Midwest last fall, including in Iowa.

Charlie Wishman, president of the Iowa AFL-CIO, said going back to work is a win for the workers, but also for the communities where they live.

"When our communities here that are anchored by companies like John Deere, when those jobs, when those layoffs are announced,' he said, "it doesn't just throw the family, it throws an entire town into confusion and chaos and worry."

One hundred fifty of the recalled workers are going back to work at four Deere facilities in Waterloo.

Deere said the workers specialize in drive-train operations, tractor operations and engine works. Wishman said Deere weighed a handful of factors in deciding when to recall laid-off workers, adding that he believes the rehires will have a trickle-down effect.

"To give these communities some stability, some insight and some understanding of what the future might look like for them," he said, "it's really, really good news."

Some of the workers will return this month, and the rest will be back on the job in March.

State climate data show 2025 was a remarkable year for Missouri weather, marked by extreme cold, record-breaking rainfall and periods of flash drought.

The year began with frigid temperatures and above-average snowfall in January and February, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The snowy start stood in contrast to the state’s current relatively mild winter.

Despite the heavy snowfall, Missouri State Climatologist Zach Leasor said the winter months did not deliver the moisture boost many expected.

“Precipitation helps to recharge the soils with moisture,” Leasor said. “And instead, what we got was snowier than average. But actually, if we consider the total precipitation, or the liquid equivalent after melting down that snow, both of those months were drier than average.”

Temperatures climbed in March as dry conditions took hold. Concerns about drought quickly faded in April, however, when Missouri recorded its fourth-wettest April on record.

“The severity, as shown by the U.S. Drought Monitor, was very minimal in northwest Missouri compared to the rest of the state,” Leasor said. “So you all fortunately received more precipitation than just about everyone.”

Rain continued through May and into early summer, creating challenges for farmers during planting season. But conditions shifted again by mid-summer, as below-average precipitation returned and drought reemerged in parts of the state during the latter half of the growing season.

Leasor said the dramatic swings are linked to atmospheric patterns in the Pacific Ocean. El Niño is associated with warmer-than-average temperatures, while La Niña brings cooler-than-average conditions.

“I think that roller coaster of La Niña, to nothing, to La Niña again is really pretty similar to the swings we’ve seen in the temperatures,” Leasor said.

Those shifting trade winds over the Pacific can influence weather patterns across the United States, including in landlocked Missouri.

The year ended with abnormally dry winter conditions, which persist across parts of the state.

Current long-range forecasts call for neutral temperature and precipitation patterns, making it difficult to predict what the year ahead may bring.

The Trenton City Council met Monday evening in regular session to address city business, including updates to several municipal policies.

Council members agreed to compile a new book of city ordinances, something the city has not previously had, according to City Clerk Anita Ewing. Over the years, the city has adopted a number of policies but did not maintain them in a single, consolidated location.

“We have adopted several policies over the years but we hadn't actually had a single place where we kept all the records,” Ewing said. She said the lack of a centralized record has made it difficult to locate certain policies for reference. The new ordinance book is intended to streamline access and improve organization.

During the meeting, the council also discussed adopting three new policies related to infrastructure projects and city finances.

In addition, council members addressed the policy governing farm animals within city limits. Ewing said the city has been operating under two conflicting policies.

“It was brought to our attention so our interim administrator put together a plan to clear up the codes in the code book for anyone with farm animals in city limits,” Ewing said. “There are a few with chickens, some with sheep. Some with horses on the east side of town who are still within city limits.”

The proposed changes may include updated regulations regarding fencing and the keeping of animals. However, Ewing said the revisions are not expected to be major.

Spring may still be weeks away, but signs of new life are already beginning to emerge beneath the surface.

University of Missouri Extension horticulturist Kathi Mecham says early February marks the time when plants start to awaken from winter dormancy. Tree sap begins to flow, roots slowly resume growth and houseplants respond to longer daylight hours with fresh signs of life.

Mecham says reduced daylight during winter naturally causes many plants to rest. Growth slows, water needs decrease and some plants may lose their leaves — all normal parts of the dormancy process.

She advises plant owners to be patient and avoid overwatering during this period. Dormant plants require less moisture and should not be fertilized.

Tropical plants such as caladiums, elephant ears, dahlias and amaryllis experience seasonal dormancy as well, but Mecham says they will rebound as temperatures warm with proper care.

The Trenton City Council approved the creation of a new comptroller position this week as part of an ongoing restructuring of city government.

The new role will serve as chief financial officer, overseeing finances for both the city and Trenton Municipal Utilities. In the past, the utilities department and city government operated separately, City Clerk Anita Ewing said.

“But our Interim City Administrator [Scott Wrighton] pointed out we are all one thing, so we should be all one entity,” Ewing said. “So we have created this Chief Financial Officer-Comptroller position.”

The council appointed Harry Belvel to the position. Belvel currently oversees finances for the city’s utilities. The combined role is part of a broader effort to incorporate the city’s utility services into the operations of City Hall.

Ewing said the new position is part of an ongoing reorganization of the city’s financial and administrative services. The restructuring has included revisions to the duties of the city clerk and city treasurer, as well as the adoption of new budget and financial management policies.

The changes come as the city continues its search for a permanent city administrator, a process that has been underway since the summer of 2025. Scott Wrighton is serving as interim administrator.

A Kansas Music Hall of Famer will take the stage Friday at Northwest Missouri State University’s annual Northwest Jazz Festival.

Stan Kessler, a longtime fixture in the Kansas City jazz scene, will perform with the Northwest Jazz Ensemble at noon Friday, Feb. 13, in the Charles Johnson Theater. He also will lead a master class at 12:45 p.m.

Twenty-four middle and high school ensembles from Iowa, Nebraska and Missouri are scheduled to perform throughout the day. Students will receive comments and ratings on their performances.

The festival brings nearly 350 prospective students to the Northwest campus and provides an important service to regional bands, said Dr. William Richardson, director of the Northwest Jazz Ensemble.

The Northwest Jazz Ensemble will close the festival with a 5 p.m. performance.

All performances are free and open to the public. More information is available here.

Several 4-H clubs and FFA chapters across Missouri have received $500 grants through the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s 2026 Building Our American Communities grant program.

Among the 4-H clubs awarded grants are the Shafter 4-H Club in Linneus, the Foundation 4-H Club in Maysville and the Wranglers 4-H Club in Maysville.

Other recipients include the Ripley County 4-H Club in Ripley County, Dora FFA in Dora and Memphis FFA in Memphis.

The grant funding will support local projects led by each chapter and club, including facility upgrades at fairgrounds and parks.

The Maryville Garden Club is offering a $500 scholarship to high school seniors in Nodaway County.

The scholarship is available to students graduating in May who plan to attend a college, university or technical school in the fall. Applicants should demonstrate involvement in gardening, horticulture, environmental issues or related activities, such as protecting native plants, pollinators or birds.

Students may request an application from their high school counselor. Homeschooled seniors can request an application by emailing nmhardee@gmail.com.

The application deadline is April 1.

The Maryville Garden Club meets monthly and supports gardening and environmental preservation efforts in the community. More information is available on the club’s Facebook page or by calling 660-853-2050.

It’s February, and while Valentine’s Day brings thoughts of romance, health officials are also reminding residents about the so-called “kissing bug.”

According to University of Missouri Extension and Lincoln University, the insect — known as the triatomine (TRY-at-uh-MINE) bug — can transmit Chagas (SHAW-giss) disease. The bug, often called the “kissing bug,” spreads the disease by biting a person and leaving feces near the bite site, said entomologist (ehn-tih-MAW-luh-jist) Emily Althoff.

The insect has expanded its territory in recent years and has drawn national headlines for the potential health complications associated with Chagas disease.

However, Althoff said there is no need for panic. According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, only one locally transmitted case of Chagas disease has been verified in Missouri, dating back to 2017.

Those concerned about the disease should monitor for symptoms, which can include fever, rash and swelling. If left untreated, Chagas disease can lead to serious cardiac and digestive complications.

In the United States, most cases have been reported in southern states, particularly Texas.

Missouri lawmakers are considering changes to public school enrollment that would allow students to transfer to districts outside their area of residence.

The Senate Education Committee heard testimony last week on bills that would create statewide open enrollment. If approved, the legislation would allow students to attend qualified public schools in other districts, regardless of where they live.

Supporters say the proposal would give families more flexibility and access to better educational opportunities. Brandi Johnson, who has a son in the St. Louis City School District, told lawmakers open enrollment could improve her child’s education.

“Senate Bill 906 and Senate Bill 971 would give families like mine options when our current school cannot or will not or refuse to meet our children's needs,” Johnson said.

Opponents argue the measure could negatively impact rural school districts by reducing enrollment and funding. They also raised concerns about transportation challenges for families transferring to schools outside their home districts.

A similar bill was filed in the Missouri House last year but did not advance to the chamber floor.

Public health officials are warning of a rise in overdose cases related to a drug derived from Kratom. It’s available at many retail outlets in the state.

7-Hydroxymitrogynine, known as 7-OH, is a kratom derivative with powerful opioid-like effects.

Stephanie Malita is a community health educator in St. Joseph. She says despite its addictive properties, it falls into a regulatory grey area and is available at many retail outlets.

“In fact, it is referred to as gas station heroin,” she says. “It is sold at convenience stores, gas stations and checkout lines.”

Products containing the drug often promise pain relief and energy benefits. However, it can be deadly, and public health workers in the city are reporting an increase in overdose cases related to the drug.

This comes after federal authorities seized thousands of 7-OH products from warehouses in the Kansas City area last December. Meanwhile, Missouri lawmakers are considering a law that would ban the drug.

Nodaway County has finalized its ballot for the April 7 general election, featuring contested city council races, school board elections and multiple bond and levy questions.

Municipal elections will take place in several towns across the county, with a number of council seats up for vote. Some races are uncontested, while others are competitive.

In Maryville, incumbents Erin Allen and Bryan Williams will face local business owner Stephanie Campbell for two open seats on the city council.

Burlington Junction voters will see one of the most competitive races on the ballot, with six candidates seeking two council positions.

Several communities are also asking voters to weigh in on funding measures. Graham, Hopkins, Lincoln Township, Independence Township and White Cloud Township are each seeking to renew a mill levy or approve bonds to support road construction and maintenance projects.

Skidmore voters will consider a measure to authorize up to $1 million in bonds for water and sewer improvements, to be repaid through utility fee revenues. The Andrew County Water Supply District, which serves customers in southern Nodaway County, is seeking approval of a $15 million bond.

School issues will also appear on the ballot. The Maryville R-II School District is proposing Proposition Spoofhound, which would waive the Proposition C sales tax rollback. If approved, the measure would result in a mill levy increase expected to generate approximately $900,000 annually for staff salaries.

In addition, school board elections will be held in the Northeast Nodaway, Jefferson, Stanberry and Maryville districts.

The election is scheduled for Tuesday, April 7. Applications for absentee ballots must be submitted to the county clerk’s office by March 25. Absentee voting begins Feb. 24.

A sample ballot is expected to be posted on the Nodaway County website in the coming weeks.

A traveling exhibit exploring the life and work of Iowa author Ruth Suckow is on display this month at the Lied Public Library in Clarinda.

The exhibit features photographs from Suckow’s life along with selections from her short stories. It is organized by the Ruth Suckow Memorial Association, which was founded by her husband to create “appropriate memorials to the late Ruth Suckow and to further a literary and educational interest in her works.”

A native of Iowa, Suckow wrote stories that reflected small-town Midwestern life. Her work often highlighted agricultural values and examined the impact of industrialization on rural communities. Known for her realism, Suckow frequently explored themes including women’s roles, family relationships, moral reflection and the tension between tradition and change.

Lied Public Library Director Andrew Hoppmann said the exhibit aligns with the library’s goal of highlighting literature that resonates with local readers.

“When we do that, I hope that maybe we can encourage future authors to understand that ‘hey, there are famous and prolific writers in our area and from Iowa,’” Hoppmann said. “Maybe that will inspire them to create their own story.”

Hoppmann said showcasing authors with regional ties helps connect readers to Iowa’s literary history and encourages appreciation for classic works.

The exhibit will remain on display in Clarinda through the end of February before traveling to the Shenandoah Public Library next month.

Missouri lawmakers are considering legislation that would eliminate the state’s solid waste management districts and end annual grant programs for waste reduction efforts.

House Bill 2761 is in the early stages of the legislative process. If approved, the measure would close all 20 solid waste management districts across Missouri.

The districts focus on recycling, composting and public education programs. They also provide grants to local governments and nonprofit organizations for waste reduction projects.

Debbie Roach, chairperson of the Region A Solid Waste Management District, which serves Nodaway, Holt, Atchison, Gentry and Worth counties, said the districts were created to reduce landfill waste.

“Solid waste districts were formed to reduce the amount of waste going into landfills in the state of Missouri, and they have been very successful at doing that,” Roach said. “This bill is looking to eliminate those solid waste districts across the state.”

Roach said her district has supported numerous projects in northwest Missouri, including grants to Northwest Missouri State University and NoCoMo Industries, a sheltered workshop in Maryville.

“Our Region A District has helped a lot of people over the years and given out grant money to various entities,” Roach said. “The Solid Waste District allows us to do those projects and help out with those projects.”

Roach said the potential impacts of the bill could extend beyond waste management services.

“There could be a lot of jobs lost,” she said. “It would eliminate the funding we use for our grant projects. The household hazardous waste collections that we do in our five-county area would go away. The educational programs we do in our schools would go away.”

The bill received a public hearing Jan. 29. A second hearing has not been scheduled.

A stretch of Interstate 29 in Buchanan County will close this weekend as crews demolish the Gene Field Road Bridge.

Both directions of I-29 will shut down at 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, and are scheduled to reopen by 5 a.m. Monday, Feb. 9. The closure is part of an ongoing bridge replacement project.

During the shutdown, through traffic will be detoured to Interstate 229. Southbound drivers will be required to exit I-29 to I-229 and U.S. Route 71 at Exit 56B. Northbound drivers will exit at I-229 and I-29 at Exit 43.

Local access to I-29 from Missouri Route 6 and U.S. Route 169 will also be closed. Gene Field Road will remain closed between Woodbine Road and Woodland Drive throughout construction.

The project includes widening the bridge and adding sidewalks and is expected to be completed by July 2026. All work is weather permitting.

Great Northwest Day at the Capitol concluded today after Northwest Missourians spent the early part of the week meeting with state lawmakers to discuss regional priorities and build long-term relationships.

Participants from 19 counties took part in the annual event, which has been held for more than 20 years. The gathering gives residents and community leaders the opportunity to speak directly with their local senators and representatives about issues affecting northwest Missouri.

Kim Mildward, priorities chair for Great Northwest Day, said the event helps open lines of communication that extend beyond the Capitol.

“When we’re down there, we give them the opportunity to meet with their local senators and representatives to talk about those issues,” Mildward said. “That opens a line of communication they can continue once they come back, and the hope is they’ll be energized to work in their community to find solutions.”

The event also included a ceremony recognizing the Northwest Missouri Citizen of the Year. This year’s honor went to Pat Dillon, chief government and community relations officer at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. It is the third time the award has been presented.

More information about Great Northwest Day is available at greatnorthwestday.com.

A fire tore through multiple buildings in downtown Cameron on Tuesday afternoon, destroying several businesses and the apartments above them.

Cameron police said crews were called to a structure fire on West Third Street shortly after 2 p.m. Smoke and flames were visible across the city for hours as firefighters worked to contain the blaze.

No injuries were reported.

Officials said the fire was largely contained by early evening with assistance from several surrounding fire departments. Crews remained on the scene to monitor hotspots and assess damage.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The St. Joseph City Council approved the creation of a new General Services Department during its meeting Monday, aiming to improve the management of major city projects and facilities.

The new department will be made up of 13 existing city employees reassigned from other departments. City officials said the change will not create new positions or add significant costs, aside from a pay increase for the department’s director.

Laurie Thompson, who currently works in the city’s risk management division, was named to lead the department.

Assistant City Manager Dawn Lanning said the city often oversees multiple large projects at the same time, including planning, bidding, contracting and ongoing maintenance.

“Some of the feedback we received from our community is that we need to strengthen all of these areas to improve how we procure these things and the quality of work we are seeing across these capital projects,” Lanning said. “So really the purpose of this is to take those existing positions and put them under consolidated management.”

City officials said the department is expected to deliver better outcomes on capital projects and help existing functions operate more efficiently.

Also at the Feb. 2 meeting, the council swore in Kaycee Garton as the city’s new city clerk and approved projects at the city landfill and at Rosecrans Memorial Airport.

Northwest Missouri State University has formally announced Rose Marie Ward as its next provost, according to an email sent Feb. 2 by University President Lance Tatum.

Ward will officially begin her tenure Feb. 16. She most recently served as special assistant to the provost and a professor at the University of Cincinnati, where she also held roles as vice provost of graduate education and dean of the Graduate College.

Prior to her time at the University of Cincinnati, Ward held administrative positions at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.

In December 2025, Ward accepted a provost position at Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky, according to the university’s campus newspaper. The position reopened the following month, and Ward continued her job search. She later attended an open forum and meet-and-greet at Northwest on Jan. 12.

Ward holds a Ph.D. and a Master of Arts degree in experimental psychology from the University of Rhode Island.

She was one of three candidates who participated in open forums at Northwest, where students, faculty and staff were invited to provide feedback following the sessions.

During her public forum, Ward described herself as a people-oriented leader, a learner and a data enthusiast. She emphasized her communication skills, openness to unexpected challenges and interest in examining Northwest’s enrollment trends.

In his announcement, Tatum said Ward’s depth of experience and professional background will be a tremendous asset to the university.

Two people have been arrested on drug and firearm charges following a months-long investigation by the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office and the Northwest Missouri Drug Task Force.

Authorities said the investigation began with a traffic stop in 2025 that led to a search of a vehicle and the seizure of methamphetamine. One individual was arrested at that time and is being held on $100,000 bail.

The investigation expanded in the weeks that followed, with deputies securing search warrants for properties in Clearmont and neighboring Atchison County. Searches of the two locations resulted in the arrest of a second individual and the discovery of additional drugs and firearms, officials said.

Nodaway County Sheriff Austin Hann said the case highlights the importance of proactive law enforcement and strong community presence.

“You’re never going to get these investigations going or these cases made if you’re not out there working,” Hann said. “The biggest thing I stress with the deputies at the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office is to be proactive in what you’re doing.”

Dalton Murphy, an investigator with the Northwest Missouri Drug Task Force, said collaboration among agencies was key to the investigation’s success. The task force works to disrupt drug trafficking throughout the region.

“I’ve learned how to communicate not just with Sheriff Hann but with sheriffs in other counties,” Murphy said. “If we have operations that lead into other counties, we get a hold of them early and let them know what we have, because it could make a big impact.”

Hann said coordination between agencies allowed the search warrants to be executed smoothly.

“This was smooth,” he said. “It was great communication and multiple resources from different agencies. Just a lot of great things with this investigation.”

Authorities said the investigation remains active.

The Stanberry R-2 School Board wrapped up the first month of the year during its January meeting, discussing district updates that included student health initiatives, school safety and concerns about state funding.

District officials said schools are sanitizing classrooms to help prevent illness during the winter season. The district is also working with a new food service provider to emphasize healthy eating habits and fresher meal options. About 20% of students and faculty currently participate in the lunch program, an increase for the district.

School officials also plan to attend the Missouri School Safety Conference, which focuses on improving the security of schools and school-related activities.

January marked the beginning of the Missouri legislative session, and Superintendent John Davison said small and rural districts are closely watching proposals that could affect education funding.

“There is some legislation that is going to be reviewed this year that is going to have a major impact to not just Stanberry but rural education throughout Missouri,” Davison said.

Davison said several factors could potentially reduce the amount of state funding small districts receive. Despite those concerns, he said he remains confident in the community’s support of its schools.

“Our enrollment trend overall is increasing, and I think that has a lot to do with the work that our community is doing,” Davison said.

He added that Stanberry is becoming a more attractive place to live, drawing in new residents, and said strong schools are a key part of that appeal.

“We want to promote the positive things that are happening within our school district,” Davison said. “Stanberry is just an amazing community, and it’s important for us to tell our story — the good things that are happening within the Stanberry School District.”

At its February meeting, the board is expected to review the district’s calendar for next school year, along with upcoming staffing placements and salaries.

Missouri traffic fatalities declined in 2025 for the third consecutive year, marking a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to improve roadway safety, state officials announced.

Gov. Mike Kehoe joined the Missouri Department of Transportation and other safety partners to release preliminary data showing a 5% decrease in traffic deaths in 2025 compared with 2024.

Officials said the state has achieved a 14% reduction in roadway fatalities over the past three years. It is the first time Missouri has recorded a three-year decline in traffic deaths since 2019.

Kehoe urged drivers to continue making safe choices on the road.

“We’re asking all Missourians to commit to making 2026 the fourth year in a row of declining fatalities,” Kehoe said. “Buckle up, put the phone down, and slow down in work zones. These simple actions will save lives.”

The announcement coincides with the launch of an updated Show-Me Zero plan, a statewide strategy aimed at reducing traffic fatalities through education, enforcement, engineering and emergency response.

More information about Missouri’s roadway safety initiatives and the Show-Me Zero plan is available at savemolives.com.

The Junior League of St. Joseph will host its third annual Saint Joseph Women’s Forum, featuring local internet personality Elizabeth Wykert as the keynote speaker.

The Junior League of St. Joseph is a women’s organization focused on promoting volunteerism, developing women’s potential and improving the community.

Attendees will hear from Wykert and a panel of local women community leaders. Organizers say the forum is designed to encourage participants to set goals for how they can personally impact the community and improve the lives of women.

Registration costs $50, with a deadline of Feb. 16. More information is available at www.juniorleaguesj.com.

The City of St. Joseph is launching a new program to help homeless individuals in the city who are charged with nonviolent offenses.

KXCV's Jaden Varner reports.

Mosaic Medical Center- Albany has received more than $160,000 from the Patterson Family Foundation to expand and strengthen maternity care services at the hospital.

The funding comes through a grant and will support staff training and the purchase of new equipment for mothers and infants. Improvements will be based in the hospital’s emergency room, where many pregnant patients in northwest Missouri seek care.

Several counties in the region lack obstetric units and have higher rates of unplanned, out-of-hospital births. As a result, many expectant mothers turn to emergency rooms when they need immediate medical attention.

Laura Almquist, Mosaic Medical Center- Albany’s community relations ambassador, said the grant will help address gaps in care created by long travel times to maternity services.

“As has been widely reported, many parts of Missouri, and specifically northwestern Missouri, are maternal care deserts,” Almquist said. “It may often be 45 minutes or more to drive if someone is experiencing a pregnancy-related emergency, so our emergency room might be the closest place to go.”

Using the grant funding, lead nurses have received additional training to handle critical maternal and infant care situations.

With the new equipment and training, Mosaic physicians will be better prepared to care for mothers before and after birth in emergency settings. Almquist said the hospital is also working to expand prenatal care options earlier in pregnancy.

“We’re doing what we can to provide options for prenatal care in the first and second trimesters with two of our primary care physicians,” she said. “But we also want to make sure that if someone does need emergency care, we have the equipment to provide it.”

The grant will fund items including incubators for newborns, point-of-care ultrasound machines, airway visualization equipment and post-partum hemorrhage crash carts.

Mosaic Life Care is a financial supporter of KXCV-KRNW.

Page County Emergency Management is reminding residents to take precautions as dangerously cold temperatures settle into the area this weekend.

Officials say wind chills are expected to reach as low as 21 degrees below zero, creating a heightened risk of frostbite and hypothermia.

Emergency management officials urge residents to dress in layers and cover all exposed skin, including wearing hats and gloves. They also recommend limiting time outdoors to reduce the chance of frostbite.

Pet owners are advised to bring animals indoors to protect them from the extreme cold.

Officials say extreme cold can be life-threatening and should be taken seriously.

After a dip the previous year, Missouri’s deer harvest returned to more typical levels during the 2025-26 season, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation.

The season closed Jan. 15, with hunters harvesting just over 300,000 deer statewide. About half of the total were antlered bucks. Hunters also took roughly 25,000 button bucks and about 130,000 does.

Franklin County led the state for the overall season, with hunters harvesting nearly 7,000 deer.

The 2025-26 totals mark an increase from 2024, when hunters harvested about 275,000 deer, a figure considered low for Missouri.

Missouri Department of Conservation Officer Jason Isabelle said the numbers showed a strong recovery.

“Deer harvest rebounded nicely from the lower harvest total we had last year, especially across much of southern Missouri,” Isabelle said.

The St. Joseph City Council this week honored longtime City Clerk Paula Heyde with a key to the city as she prepares to retire at the end of the month, closing a more than four-decade career in public service.

Heyde began working at City Hall in the 1980s and was appointed city clerk in 1988. In total, she has served the city for 43 years, becoming one of Missouri’s longest-serving municipal clerks.

In addition to the city’s recognition, the Missouri House of Representatives honored Heyde with a resolution passed Jan. 13, citing her decades of service and commitment to local government.

Mayor John Josendale read the legislative recognition before the council, calling Heyde “a remarkable city employee who continues to serve as an inspiration for all those who know and love her.”

Heyde began working for the city at just 19 years old. During her tenure, she oversaw city records and municipal elections and ensured the city’s compliance with state and federal law, Josendale said.

“Throughout her career, Paula helped provide stability and knowledge during times of change, working with many different city managers, mayors and city councils, while always acting with professionalism and integrity,” he said.

Following Heyde’s retirement, Kaycee Garton will assume the role of city clerk on Feb. 2. Garton currently serves as deputy clerk under Heyde.

Residents are asking the city of St. Joseph to sponsor a Trap-Neuter-Return, or TNR, program to address the city’s growing stray cat population.

TNR programs involve trapping stray cats, sterilizing them and returning them to their colonies, a method intended to reduce populations over time without euthanasia. Residents told the St. Joseph City Council this week that unmanaged cat colonies have increased sharply.

“This year has been the worst,” resident Mardell Barber said during public comment. “Since the shelter stopped taking in cats, the population and the suffering has skyrocketed.”

In a statement posted online, the St. Joseph Animal Shelter said it is “not currently providing TNR services to the community,” but can offer support services to individuals or organizations pursuing TNR efforts.

Residents said those measures are insufficient and urged the council to fund a full TNR program or provide additional resources to support community-led efforts to reduce the stray cat population.

Supporters pointed to successful TNR programs in other communities and on college campuses across the country, including at Northwest Missouri State University, where similar efforts have helped control stray cat numbers.

In other business at the meeting, the council approved a pay raise for city firefighters and authorized an agreement with Missouri Western State University to provide students and staff free rides on city buses. A similar agreement between the city and the university had been in place previously but ended during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Lied Public Library in Clarinda is celebrating a year of growth and community engagement, according to a year-in-review conversation with KXCV.

Library Director Andrew Hoppman said the library experienced nearly a 20 percent increase in visits over the past year, with Mondays proving to be the busiest day of the week. He attributed that trend to the library’s Sunday closure and strong demand for services at the start of each week.

“To me, it shows how important the library is,” Hoppman said. “We're closed on Sundays, so Monday is the first full day that we're open after being closed. People need to get their books and utilize the services we have, so they come in on Monday.”

The library also added 333 new cardholders in 2025, while patrons checked out a total of about 62,000 items throughout the year.

Among new initiatives, the library launched C-PAL — Community Pathways for Accessing Literacy — a reading support program used by local schools, nursing homes and individual residents.

Hoppman said the library’s services also resulted in significant cost savings for the community, estimating patrons saved roughly $663,000 by borrowing materials instead of purchasing them.

“Well, it costs about $14 to buy a book,” Hoppman said. “If that book gets checked out from the library and you don’t buy it, you’re saving that.”

Beyond books, the library’s “Library of Things” allows patrons to check out electronic equipment such as Wi-Fi hotspots, as well as passes to local destinations including museums and the Lied Rec Center.

The most-checked-out book of 2025 was Battle Mountain by C.J. Box, a result that did not surprise Hoppman.

“C.J. Box has always been a pretty popular author here,” he said. “That series has an outdoor adventure element that people really enjoy.”

One of the library’s most notable achievements came in regional recognition. The Lied Public Library was named Southeast Iowa’s Best Public Library for 2024–25, marking its third consecutive year earning the honor. Hoppman said the library hopes to repeat the achievement again in 2026.

A theft and burglary investigation is underway in Chillicothe after three dirt bikes were stolen from a business early Friday morning.

The incident occurred at about 3:10 a.m. Jan. 17, when an alarm was activated at a business in the 700 block of South Washington Street, according to police.

Officers responding to the call found a back door had been forcibly opened. Police say the suspects had fled the scene before officers arrived.

Three dirt bikes were reported stolen. No suspects have been identified at this time.

Anyone with information that could assist in the investigation is asked to contact the Chillicothe Police Department at 660-646-2121.

The City of St. Joseph is launching a new Parks and Recreation safety initiative aimed at reducing crime and improving public confidence in city parks.

The initiative is a partnership between the city’s Parks and Recreation Department and the St. Joseph Police Department and focuses on preventative, practical steps to address safety concerns in public spaces.

The program uses a strategy known as Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, or CPTED. Through this approach, the city will incorporate design elements such as improved sightlines, clearly defined access points and consistent maintenance to reduce opportunities for criminal activity.

City officials say the initiative emphasizes prevention and visibility rather than enforcement. However, park department staff and police officers will increase their presence and patrol visibility during peak hours, according to a statement from the city.

Additional design measures include improved lighting, vegetation management, and the removal of graffiti and litter.

The announcement comes as the city continues work on a $12 million update to Krug Park, where officials have said public safety is a priority.

Residents of Chillicothe have until the end of January to renew their pet licenses.

City officials have granted an extension to the typical renewal deadline, which normally falls at the end of the calendar year. In past years, pet license fees were included on city utility bills, and late fees were assessed after Dec. 31.

Due to changes implemented this year, the city has extended the deadline to Jan. 31. No late fee will be applied before that date.

Residents with questions about pet licensing are encouraged to contact the Chillicothe City Clerk’s Office at 660-646-1877.

The highly-energetic, immersive dance group, Step Afrika! will return to Northwest Missouri State University as part of the Identity365 program hosted by the Center for Engagement and Community Connection and the Student Activities Council (SAC).

The performance begins at 7 p.m. Wednesday, January 28, in the Mary Linn Auditorium at the Ron Houston Center for Performing Arts. It is free and open to the public.

Step Afrika! performs percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities. An array of contemporary dance and art forms create a cohesive, compelling artistic experience.

The group's storytelling and humorous performances promote teamwork, academic achievement and cross-cultural understanding.

The Greater Maryville Chamber of Commerce will host its first educational session, known as a “Power Hour,” of 2026 on Jan. 27.

The event is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. at the Nodaway County Administration Building.

The session will focus on legislative issues affecting rural education and will feature multiple speakers. Topics will include the diversion of funding from public to private education and the potential impact of proposed funding changes on local school districts.

More information is available by calling 660-582-8643 or by emailing director@maryvillechamber.com.

The City of Maryville has secured $530,000 to help purchase a new fire truck for its fire department.

The funding comes from the Missouri Department of Economic Development’s Community Development Block Grant program.

Maryville Fire Chief Jace Pine told the City Council during its Jan. 12 meeting that the grant will be used to replace “Engine Three,” a 1997 Toyne fire apparatus that has been in service for nearly 30 years.

“Engine three … has served the city well for the last 30 years through rigorous maintenance and quite a bit of upkeep,” Pine said. He noted that while the truck still responds to every fire, it is no longer the department’s primary engine and is beginning to show its age both mechanically and functionally.

“It’s a great truck,” Pine said, “however it’s starting to show its age, with both mechanical issues and some of the features of the truck that don’t fit what we do today.”

The fire department applied for the grant last year. The award will cover about half of the cost of the new truck, with the city responsible for providing matching funds.

The Maryville City Council unanimously approved moving forward with the project.

The Nodaway Chorale will begin its spring rehearsal season Monday, Jan. 19, as the group prepares for its 20th anniversary concert in April.

Rehearsals will be held each Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Maryville following the opening session.

The Nodaway Chorale is a non-profit, non-audition, secular mixed-voice choir with more than 60 singers from communities across the region.

Membership is open to anyone who enjoys singing. Chorale members include educators, office workers, writers, business professionals, and high school and college students.

A project to replace the Gene Field Road Bridge over Interstate 29 in St. Joseph has been awarded to Clarkson Construction Co. for more than $5 million.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge was built in 1962 and carries about 6,500 vehicles per day. The structure is scheduled to be replaced by 2026.

MoDOT says the earliest construction could begin is Friday, Jan. 16.

Traffic impacts and construction updates will be posted at modot.org.

Rock Port City Hall is expected to reopen fully by February following a renovation project that expanded well beyond its original scope.

Mayor Richard J. Chaney said the project was initially planned as a modest interior update but grew after crews uncovered multiple structural and safety issues.

“You always hear stories about remodel nightmares, and this is one of those,” Chaney said. “We were just going to do new flooring and paint. And while doing that, we removed some stuff and found termite damage. Fixing that, we found water and mold issues. Doing that, the wiring was not up to code, so we had to do rewiring. While rewiring, part of the ceiling fell in. So it’s been a trip.”

Despite the delays, Chaney said the city plans to have the building ready in time to host the February city council meeting.

The renovation includes new features designed to better serve residents, and the city plans to issue a call for local artists and photographers to display their work inside City Hall.

Interior renovations began in the fall of 2025 after exterior updates were completed earlier. City Hall has remained open throughout construction, with offices temporarily reorganized to allow staff to continue serving the public.

The Maryville Public Library is inviting parents and young entrepreneurs to learn more about this year’s Children’s Business Fair during an informational session later this month.

The session will be held Thursday, Jan. 22, at 5:30 p.m. at the library and is open to both first-time participants and returning student entrepreneurs.

The annual Children’s Business Fair gives youth ages 8 through high school the opportunity to create and operate their own small businesses. Priority registration is available to students who live in or attend school in Nodaway County.

During the meeting, families will learn what to expect from this year’s fair, including updates intended to better support young business owners. Library staff will also review registration details, important timelines and ways students can begin preparing their business ideas.

Additional information about the Children’s Business Fair is available through the Maryville Public Library.

The Missouri Department of Transportation is planning improvements to the intersection of U.S. Route 71 and 340th Street south of Maryville in anticipation of increased traffic from a new natural gas power plant.

MoDOT plans to replace the existing intersection with J-turns, a design intended to improve safety by eliminating direct crossings of multiple lanes of high-speed traffic. Under the new configuration, drivers will turn right in the direction of traffic, merge, and then use a designated median crossover to make a U-turn before continuing in their intended direction.

Evergy officials expect traffic at the intersection to increase as construction and operations begin at the new natural gas plant south of the city.

An open house-style public meeting on the project is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 21, at the Maryville Public Safety Training Room, 101 N. Vine St. Community members may attend at any time between 4 and 6 p.m. to review project plans and speak with representatives from MoDOT and Evergy Inc.

Five candidates have filed to run for three seats on the Maryville School District Board of Education, according to election filings.

The filing period closed in late December, and the school board election will be held April 7.

Candidates who have declared include DeAnn Davison, Amy Ziegler, Dale Baker, Isaiah Korthanke and Tamara Lynn.

Baker and Korthanke are incumbents. Korthanke is a property manager who moved to Maryville in 2012. Baker has served as lead pastor at First Baptist Church in Maryville since 2019.

Current board member Kelley Baldwin is not seeking another term, leaving one seat open on the board.

Is your home in need of some color this winter? The University of Missouri Extension suggests bromeliads as a vibrant, low-maintenance option for indoor plant lovers.

Bromeliads are tropical plants known for their bright foliage, featuring rich reds, vibrant greens and even gold hues. While typically found in tropical climates, bromeliads adapt well to indoor environments and can thrive inside the home.

MU Extension horticulturist David Trinklein says bromeliads should be placed in bright, diffused light at least once a month and given steady moisture to stay healthy.

Common varieties include silver vase, blushing bromeliad, scarlet star and flaming sword. With their colorful leaves and simple care requirements, bromeliads can bring a touch of the tropics indoors while homeowners wait for spring to arrive.

The Nodaway County Cattlemen’s Association has donated more than 300 pounds of ground beef to food pantries across Nodaway County.

Five pantries — Barnard, Hopkins, Skidmore, South Nodaway and West Nodaway — each received 60 pounds of ground beef. The donation was coordinated by Nodaway County Economic Development and University of Missouri Extension.

Pantry leaders say ground beef is among the most requested items by clients, while the cost of beef has continued to rise in recent years, making it harder for families to purchase.

Organizers say the donation highlights increased collaboration among local cattle producers, food providers and community organizations working to address food insecurity in the county.

According to a press release, the donation comes in response to growing demand for food assistance and rising grocery prices.

Is trouble brewing in your garden? If you’ve been saving coffee grounds to help your plants grow, experts say you may want to think twice.

University of Missouri Extension horticulturist Todd Higgins says spent coffee grounds are often promoted online as a natural garden booster, but research shows they can do more harm than good when applied directly to soil.

Higgins says coffee grounds are not highly acidic, as many gardeners believe, and can actually raise soil pH over time. That change can negatively affect acid-loving plants such as blueberries and azaleas.

He says coffee grounds are best used in compost, where they can add organic matter and nutrients once they are fully broken down. Applying large amounts directly to soil can block water and air movement, tie up nitrogen and slow plant growth.

Before adding coffee grounds or other amendments to soil, Higgins recommends having soil tested to prevent unintended damage to plants.

As the legislative session opens in Jefferson City, school districts across Missouri are closely watching proposals that could affect classroom instruction, daily operations and funding.

Lawmakers last year approved a ban on student cellphone use during the school day. This session, legislators are now discussing broader limits on screen time in classrooms — a move that could affect districts that rely on school-issued devices.

Many districts provide students with personal technology, including the Maryville R-II School District, which issues Chromebook laptops. Superintendent Philip Pohren said teachers use the devices to deliver curriculum purchased from educational vendors.

“Some of the vendors that we talk to sold us on programs that do a great job of assessing students using these Chromebooks,” Pohren said. “Some of these assessments take 30 to 45 minutes of time.”

Pohren said legislation that limits how long students can spend in front of screens would require districts to reconsider how instruction and assessments are delivered.

“It could impact how teachers teach,” he said. “So definitely worth keeping an eye on.”

Schools are also monitoring potential changes to Missouri’s public school funding formula, which is currently under review by state officials. Many rural districts rely heavily on state funding, making any revisions a significant concern as the session gets underway.

Hy-Vee shoppers across the Midwest will soon have access to more detailed nutrition information while grocery shopping.

The retailer, which operates more than 280 stores in eight states, is partnering with the FoodHealth Company to introduce the FoodHealth Score. The system rates foods on a scale of 1 to 100, allowing customers to compare nutritional value across products, from packaged items to fresh produce.

A score of 50 represents the midpoint, with higher scores indicating foods that are more nutrient-dense. The information will be available through Hy-Vee’s website and mobile app.

FoodHealth Company founder and CEO Samantha Citro Alexander says grocery stores play a critical role in public health, and the scoring system is designed to help shoppers make more informed decisions about what they eat.

Hy-Vee President Aaron Wiese says the new tool builds on the company’s existing dietitian and pharmacy services and supports its broader “food is medicine” approach.

The move comes as many Americans are paying closer attention to health and nutrition, while also turning to grocery stores for solutions as affordability and inflation remain top concerns.

Seven candidates are competing for two open seats on the St. Joseph School District Board of Education. The filing period closed on Dec. 30, 2025 and the election will be held on April 7, 2026.

The open seats are currently held by Whitney Lanning and Tom Richmond, both of whom decided not to seek reelection after a period of contention and tumult at the district. Over the past year, administrative changes, shifting federal policy, mis-filed paperwork, and a $20 million budget gap have plagued the school district's operations. This fall, a contentious public process ended when the board voted to convert Lafayette High School to a middle school, and close a number of other facilities.

Lanning is disqualified from running again after the governor signed a bill in July 2025 making it illegal for anyone who has committed a misdemeanor on public school property from seeking a position on a Board of Education. Lanning plead guilty to a charge of second-degree harassment in June 2025 following an incident where she verbally accosted a colleague after a school board meeting.

Lanning has said the incident escalated when she took offense at comments made about her daughter. In a statement on her Facebook page, Lanning said, while she cannot serve on the board, she will continue "sharing information and advocating for students and staff."

The district's next school board will have to navigate the closings along with staff reductions and building the district back towards financial health.

The declared candidates are:

Jacob McMillan
Cynthia Cook
Deborah Schmuck
Travis Smith
Cassandra Veale
Kimberly Dragoo
Reid Barnett

Dragoo has gained attention for her role in the Jan. 6, 2026 insurrection at the US Capital. She was pardoned by President Trump for her actions on that day.

The Tenaska Clear Creek Wind Farm is accepting applications for its College Scholarship program.

Tenaska is an energy company based in Omaha, Nebraska, with business operations that span the energy industry. It operates a 242-megawatt wind farm in Nodaway County that went online in 2020. It performs a number of charitable functions in the region.

The company will award three $2,500 scholarships this year to be used for post-secondary education.

To be eligible, students must be graduating from Maryville, North Nodaway, and West Nodaway high schools in the spring of 2026.

To date, the company has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships in communities where it operates energy facilities. This is the sixth year it has offered the scholarship in Nodaway County. Applicants should apply before March 6 at tenaska.com/plantscholarships.

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More than 110,000 Iowans stand to lose health insurance or pay sharply higher premiums if Congress elects not to extend tax cuts that currently make coverage more affordable.

House members have said they could pass a bipartisan bill in early January that would address the issue, but Senate Republicans have pushed back. Iowans who currently get their insurance through the federal marketplace will see a price increase of at least 173% if subsidies are not extended.

Fifty-three-year-old Lori Hunt of Des Moines is a breast cancer survivor and said she will have limited options if Washington lawmakers elect not to take action and let the credits expire.

"If I lose the tax subsidies that I have already," said Hunt, "yeah, I won't be able to afford insurance, and that's just what it comes down to."

Rural Iowa hospitals are already struggling to remain open after a trillion-dollar cut to Medicaid earlier this year. They stand to lose another $27 million if Congress doesn't take action on the Affordable Care Act, according to the Center for American Progress.

Hunt said her cancer is currently in remission, but said she worries about future medical costs associated with that – including paying for MRI scans and mammograms.

"Luckily, everything has been good since then, but, I mean, things still happen," said Hunt. "Accidents happen."

The Trump administration has said it is trying to reduce waste and fraud in social services, but has not offered an explanation for why it is opposed to extending the subsidies – other than to say it has an alternative plan.

U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn, R-IA, has said he supports a three-year extension – but with income restrictions.

Voters in Maryville will have to decide on a property tax increase at this April’s election to fund the city’s school district.

The Maryville R-II School District Board of Education approved ‘Proposition Spoofhound’ at its meeting last month. If voters in the city support the measure, the district estimates it will raise roughly $880,000 dollars annually, to be used for staff salaries, insurance costs, and other district expenses.

Superintendent Philip Pohren said the change would raise the mill levy for property owners by 31 cents per $1000 of assessed property value.

“We plan to roll a lot of information out to our community wit­h some anticipated impacts based of your home’s value, your car’s, boat’s etc. values, and if you have some farmland – what all that means as far as that [tax] increase goes,” he said.

The district is seeking these funds not through a simple increase, but by waiving Missouri’s 1982 Proposition C.

The law provides a one-cent sales tax to school districts in the state, but requires schools return half of those funds to property owners to lower their payments.

Many districts have voted to waive the requirement to return the funds, says Pohren.

“Of the 500 school districts in Missouri, something like 470 have done a full waiver of Prop C and that is what we will ask our taxpayers to support.” This would increase the mill levy from 4.18 to 4.49.

The question will appear on the ballot at the municipal election on April 7^th.

Gavin McGough

The Nodaway County Fair could eventually have a new permanent home at the rodeo grounds on the campus of Northwest Missouri State University, though no move would take place as soon as 2026.

University President Lance Tatum discussed the possibility during a committee meeting of the Northwest Board of Regents on Dec. 9, saying the university has begun preliminary conversations with the county about selling the property and partnering on a future fairgrounds.

“I would like to thank the board for allowing us to at least begin the conversation with the county in terms of the rodeo property and partnering with them on the sale of the property to set up a fairgrounds for them,” Tatum said. He emphasized that discussions remain in the early stages.

The rodeo arena is no longer in use, and the university has considered selling the property since at least 2022, according to the Northwest Missourian.

Nodaway County officials have long sought a single, permanent location for the fair. The event currently operates in multiple locations, with livestock housed in a barn near the airport and carnival rides set up in downtown Maryville. Officials have cited traffic disruptions and safety concerns associated with the split locations.

Using the university’s rodeo grounds has been discussed in the past as a potential solution. Tatum said the exact boundaries of any land that could be sold are still under consideration.

Mosaic Medical Center Maryville announced it will relocate its Outreach Specialty Clinic to a new location in an effort to improve patient access and services.

Beginning Jan. 12, the clinic will operate at 114 E. South Hills Drive in Maryville. The building currently houses the Mosaic drop-in clinic, which functions similarly to an urgent care facility for patients with non-emergency, unexpected health needs.

Hospital officials said the move will allow Mosaic to better serve patients while enhancing accessibility to specialty care.

Services offered through the Outreach Specialty Clinic include neurology, gastroenterology, and ear, nose and throat care.

December is the season of giving, but experts warn it is also a time when consumers should be careful not to give away their personal information to thieves while shopping online.

Online purchases typically increase during the holiday season, and with that rise comes an increased risk of identity theft. If criminals gain access to personal information such as Social Security numbers, credit card details or account logins, they can cause significant damage to a victim’s credit score and finances — damage that can take months to repair.

Andrew Zumwalt, a professor at the University of Missouri, encourages shoppers to take extra precautions to protect their identities.

Zumwalt recommends reviewing bank and credit card statements promptly and verifying that every charge is legitimate. He also advises consumers to double-check website URLs and avoid shopping with unfamiliar or suspicious retailers.

Using strong, unique passwords for online accounts is another important step, Zumwalt said, along with checking credit reports at least once a year to watch for signs of fraud.

Anyone who believes their identity has been compromised should contact their bank immediately to help limit potential financial losses.

Members of the Falls City community are clucking about a new city ordinance requiring permits for backyard chickens.

Beginning next year, Falls City residents who keep hens within city limits must apply for a permit. Approved applicants will be allowed to keep up to 10 hens. The permit application costs $20, with an annual renewal fee of $10 in subsequent years.

City officials say the ordinance is intended to ensure that all chickens are properly enclosed in approved cages or coops within city limits.

The new rule has sparked debate, particularly on social media, where residents have voiced frustration and confusion. Some residents argue the ordinance is unnecessary, noting that similar requirements were already in place for other livestock. Others say the new rules appear redundant and question why chickens are being singled out.

Adding to the frustration, several residents say they were unaware of the ordinance until recently, despite it officially going into effect Aug. 18.

The Falls City Council has opened applications for permits for the coming year. Applications are due by the end of the month.

The city of Trenton has appointed an interim city administrator as officials continue searching for a permanent replacement following the removal of former administrator Ron Urton in August.

City Clerk Anita Ewing said the city began its search earlier this summer but struggled to find qualified candidates.

“We had gone through the process of getting applications, and we did some interviews, and none of the applications we received filled the qualifications that we were looking for,” Ewing said. “We did find one person that we did offer the job to, but he had already taken a position elsewhere.”

As the search stalled, the city contracted with Interim Solutions, a hiring agency that assists municipalities with administrative staffing and recruitment.

In November, with the agency’s assistance, the city hired Scott Wrighton to serve as temporary city administrator. Ewing said the city has entered into a four-month contract with Interim Solutions.

“We have contracted with Interim Solutions for a four-month period, and during that time, Mr. Wrighton will be serving as our interim, as well as the company helping us search for the permanent replacement,” she said.

While the contract is intended as a short-term solution, Ewing said Wrighton has already made a positive impact.

“He is facilitating everything that we need done,” she said. “He has taken in and done wonders for us over the last couple of weeks, and so it’s been really good. And now we’re just hoping to find someone for the permanent position.”

Wrighton brings decades of city management experience to the role. His career includes service in Kirksville, Missouri, and Decatur, Illinois.

City officials say the search for a permanent city administrator will continue during Wrighton’s interim tenure.

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In parts of rural Missouri, Christian recovery and sober-living centers are expanding faster than the state can regulate them.

Many homes are filling gaps where accredited treatment beds are scarce - but because they operate without formal oversight, advocates and courts are weighing the risks alongside the benefits.

Advocates for recovery housing emphasize the picture isn't black and white.

Merna Eppick, housing committee chair for the Missouri Coalition of Recovery Support Providers, said while accreditation offers important safeguards, the lack of it doesn’t automatically mean a program is unsafe - especially in parts of the state where options are limited.

"Certainly not all non-accredited homes are bad players," said Eppick. "I talked recently with someone from probation and parole. What they said was, obviously we would like the people under supervision to only go to accredited homes. There aren’t enough."

Missouri does not require recovery houses to be accredited unless they seek state or federal funding.

Supporters of accreditation say clearer standards can help protect residents and improve accountability, but in many rural communities, unaccredited homes may be the only available option.

Eppick emphasized that accreditation is meant to provide clarity for residents, families, and courts - not to single out unaccredited homes.

"If it’s accredited, what it means is they meet health, safety, and ethical standards," said Eppick. "I don't think it's black and white, that's where I stand. I think it's some good homes out there that choose not to be accredited."

Eppick also stressed that it's important for the homes to be transparent about their worldviews, such as faith and expectations.

The National Alliance for Recovery Residences sets standards for recovery housing, from peer-run sober homes to more structured programs with added oversight.

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The Iowa Farm Bureau has released a statement claiming that the state's waterways are becoming cleaner, despite evidence that nitrates and phosphates are higher than ever.

The chemicals are dangerous to human health.

The Iowa Farm Bureau blames seasonal waterflow fluctuations for nutrient spikes in Iowa waterways, claiming nitrate levels have not exceeded Environmental Protection Agency safety levels of 10 micrograms per milliliter of water.

But the Iowa Environmental Council's General Council Michael Schmidt said research shows that levels are often higher than that, and adds that nitrate is dangerous at levels as low as 5 micrograms.

"The drinking water standards set by EPA many years ago, decades ago, was really set to protect against short-term acute impacts," said Schmidt. "So, babies drinking formula made with water high in nitrates would get sick with blue baby syndrome."

Schmidt said Iowa's nitrate pollution is not short-term, but continuous, and has been linked to cancer in a state with the nation's second highest number of new cases.

Environmental groups have called on the EPA to tighten nitrate level safety standards in Iowa waterways.

Schmidt says large animal confinement operations are the primary source of nitrates and phosphorous pollution in Iowa waterways, and adds that beyond cancer, the chemicals can cause birth defects.

"A study of mothers in Iowa found that increased nitrates in drinking water was associated with neural tube defects of the brain and spinal cord," said Schmidt, "and potentially even limb deficiencies."

Schmidt said there is also evidence that high nitrate levels in drinking water can cause thyroid disease.

The Farm Bureau says it is working with scientists at Iowa State University to more accurately track waterway nutrients levels in real time.

The Maryville Chamber of Commerce has announced its 39th class of Leadership Maryville.

Eighteen individuals from the area will participate in the seven-month program, which is designed to develop leadership skills and increase awareness of community needs. The class is made up of individuals who hold leadership roles throughout the city and the local economy.

Participants will meet once a month from January through July. The program will begin with a full-day retreat focused on leadership development and local government, along with visits to local historical points of interest.

The schedule also includes six afternoon sessions covering topics such as diversity, education, economic development, agriculture and health care.

In addition, participants will be invited to take part in a two-day trip to Jefferson City for Great Northwest Days and will complete a community project as part of the program.

More information can be found here.

Missouri’s unemployment rate rose over the past year, according to the state’s September job report, which was released after delays caused by the federal government shutdown that began in October.

The report shows Missouri’s unemployment rate increased from 3.7% in September 2024 to 4.1% in September 2025. An estimated 132,000 Missourians were unemployed in September.

Despite the increase, Missouri’s unemployment rate remains 0.3 percentage points lower than the national average and has stayed below the U.S. rate for the past decade.

Several industries posted job gains over the year. Manufacturing employment grew by about 500 jobs, business services added more than 4,000 jobs, and the leisure and hospitality sector increased by roughly 500 jobs.

Other sectors saw declines. Mining, logging and construction recorded job losses, while private education and health services shed more than 3,000 jobs. The state also lost about 500 federal government positions.

State labor officials say the data reflects a mixed employment picture, with growth in some sectors offset by declines in others as the labor market continues to adjust.

Brownville Concert Series

The 2025 season for the Brownville Concert Series ends this weekend with its holiday show, featuring the New York City based nightclub performer Carole J Bufford.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is encouraging birders across the state to join the National Audubon Society’s 2025 Christmas Bird Count, taking place Dec. 14 through Jan. 5, 2026.

The annual census brings together thousands of volunteers throughout the United States, Canada and beyond to document bird species, movements and population trends. The long-running community science project provides researchers with valuable data that helps guide conservation efforts.

Missourians interested in surveying an area and reporting their bird sightings can learn more at Audubon’s website under the conservation section.

The Nodaway County Economic Development Corporation has received more than $200,000 through Missouri’s Neighborhood Assistance Program, the state’s tax credit initiative aimed at boosting community and economic development.

The Missouri Department of Economic Development administers the program, commonly known as NAP, which offers state income tax credits to Missouri-based companies that support approved local projects. The goal is to encourage investment in entrepreneurship, renovation and revitalization efforts across the state.

NCED officials say the newly awarded funds will support a series of renovation and revitalization projects in Maryville and throughout Nodaway County.

Businesses or individuals interested in participating in the NAP program can contact the Nodaway County Economic Development Corporation at 660-582-4490.

For the first time in four decades — and only the third time in 70 years — St. Joseph will see a new city clerk take office next year.

The city announced last month that longtime City Clerk Paula Heyde will retire and officially step down on Jan. 30, 2026. Deputy Clerk Kaycee Garton will assume the role in February.

In a statement, Mayor John Josendale praised Heyde’s dedication and institutional knowledge. “Paula is the life and soul of the city, she knows more than anybody when you think about longevity… She’s taught me a lot,” he said.

Heyde began her career with the City of St. Joseph in 1983. She became city clerk in 1987, succeeding Walter Welsh, who retired after 34 years in the position.

Garton, a St. Joseph native, joined the city as a police officer in 2018 before moving into administrative work. She has served as deputy clerk under Heyde.

Heyde says she looks forward to retirement and plans to spend more time traveling and visiting with family.

The Missouri Department of Transportation is inviting K–12 students across the state to take part in the 2026 “Yes You CAN Make Missouri Litter-Free” contest, an annual competition that challenges participants to decorate a trash can as part of MoDOT’s anti-littering campaign.

The contest encourages students to promote the “No MOre Trash!” message while showcasing their creativity. Schools and home-school programs may submit a decorated trash can in one of four age categories. Entries will be judged on creativity, adherence to the contest rules, and effective use of the theme and logo.

First-place winners in each category will receive $200 for their school. Those top entries will then be considered for the grand prize — $600 and a trophy.

There is no entry fee, but participants must submit an online entry form, photos, and a release form by March 13.

More information, including contest rules, required forms, and a gallery of past winners, is available at here.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — For those looking to add a bit of spring brightness during the long winter months, horticulture experts say paperwhites are an easy and fragrant option for indoor growing.

University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein says paperwhites produce clusters of star-shaped, sweet-scented flowers that help lift spirits during the darker days of December and January. He notes the bulbs are simple to force into bloom and make a fun project for children.

Paperwhite bulbs are commonly sold in ready-to-use kits. Once planted, they typically bloom within four to six weeks. They can be grown in potting soil or in a shallow bowl filled with gravel and water. Gardeners should keep water at the base of the bulbs to prevent rotting and store bulbs in a cool location before planting. Trinklein says paperwhites are not winter-hardy in Missouri and should not be planted outdoors.

Cool temperatures are essential to keeping the plants compact and attractive. Trinklein recommends starting bulbs around 45 degrees. Once leaves emerge, growers can move them to a bright, cool window. Nighttime temperatures in the 50s help prevent the plants from becoming too tall.

Gardeners should also monitor water quality. If water begins to smell unpleasant, Trinklein advises gently flushing and replacing it.

Paperwhites will not rebloom after their initial flowering, so Trinklein suggests enjoying their beauty while it lasts and discarding the bulbs once the blooms fade.

The Greater Maryville Chamber of Commerce has named Daniel Nelson as the 2025 “Grinch,” selecting him to serve as Grand Marshal of the Downtown Maryville Yuletide Magic Christmas Parade taking place Friday evening.

Each year, community members vote for the honorary title, with proceeds benefiting a local nonprofit chosen by the winner. This year’s contest raised $1,425.34, all of which will go to Nelson’s selected organization, the Nodaway County Senior Center.

The parade steps off at 6 p.m. from Franklin Park and will make its way down Main Street to the Courthouse Square. Spectators can catch a glimpse of the newly crowned Grinch leading the procession.

The Chamber expressed appreciation to all who donated and to the finalists who participated in the annual holiday fundraiser.

Clinton & Charles Robertson/Flickr

(KMAland) -- As hunters gear up for one of the most popular seasons in the state, Iowa Department of Natural Resources officials say deer populations in the western portion of the state continue to struggle.

The first gun season for deer begins on Saturday and runs through December 10th, while the second gun season picks up on December 13th and runs through December 21st. Speaking on the latest "Outdoors in KMAland," Iowa DNR Wildlife Biologist Matt Dollison says the deer population in western Iowa is "not in a great place." He says that's reflected by doe harvest continuing to be restricted during the first gun season in all of the counties along the Missouri River, along with antlerless quotas for 2025-26 reduced to zero in Fremont, Mills, Montgomery, Page, Pottawattamie, Cass, Harrison, Shelby, and Audubon counties in KMAland.

"I feel like we might be seeing a little uptick in population here in Fremont County down here in the southwest corner--just from what we're seeing and what folks are seeing on the landscape, especially in the Loess Hills," said Dollison. "Other counties, not so much and we haven't seen the rebound we've been hoping for at all. Like for instance, one of our technicians sat in a tree for five days in a row in Page County, right in the middle of a rut, and he saw two deer, he said, in five days."

Dollison says the likely factors in the struggling deer population in western Iowa include major outbreaks of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease, or EHD, over the past 10 years, and potentially not reducing antlerless quotas soon enough. Meanwhile, Dollison says deer are large enough to fend off most predatory animals. He notes that animals such as coyotes, overall, aren't believed to have a significant impact on the current lack of deer in western Iowa.

"Coyotes actually do take a significant number of fawns, but they always have," said Dollison. "I've heard numbers as much as 25-to-50% of fawns being killed by coyotes in different research studies, which seems like a lot, but it's always been a factor. The research projects and most of the people in the know on the subject don't think that coyotes have a very significant effect on deer populations."

Additionally, Dollison says Iowa DNR staff have begun ramping up efforts to collect samples for Chronic Wasting Disease testing in deer. Three cases were reported in 2024 in southwest Iowa, including ones in Fremont, Pottawattamie, and Shelby counties, while another case of CWD was reported in Crawford County earlier this year.

"Especially early in the week, we're driving the roads and picking up roadkill of deer and getting those sampled for CWD and we'll be gearing up for a lot of monitoring, especially during the gun seasons that are coming up for deer," said Dollison. "So we'll be driving around and trying to get samples and if people are killing deer out there and they don't mind, please give us a call because we'd like to sample them for CWD. We haven't met our quotas anywhere except for Cass County so far, so we'd love to sample those. If folks are seeing roadkill of mature deer, we'd appreciate a heads up about that as well."

CWD is a neurological disease, similar to mad cow disease, that attacks the brain of an infected deer, causing the animal to lose weight, display abnormal behavior, lose body functions, and die. Dollison says the disease is 100% fatal in deer. But he notes that most people don't see the "clinical signs" in deer, primarily because it takes a long time for them to appear.

"We've had, I think, maybe two deer out of hundreds that (have tested positive for CWD), we've only had two showing clinical signs," said Dollison. "Almost all the deer were perfectly healthy and when we'd cut the lymph nodes out of the neck and send them off, they come back positive for the disease. It takes about three years before (symptoms start showing) in the deer and they have to contract the disease from another deer generally. Then the deer, they already die from other causes or they are harvested by hunters already before they start showing clinical signs."

Since the Iowa DNR began testing for CWD in 2002, over 530 deer have come back positive for the disease. For more information on the diseases and how to submit samples, visit the Iowa DNR's website. You can also contact Dollison at 712-350-0147. The full "Outdoors in KMAland" segment is available below:

Maryville’s first-ever dog park is now open to the public, offering residents a new space for their pets to run and socialize.

The Sunshine Bark Park, located off Halsey Street on the city’s east side, features a fenced-in area where dogs can roam freely. The initial phase of the project also includes new sidewalks, an asphalt driveway and landscaping improvements throughout the site.

Additional amenities — including dog water fountains, lighting and a washing station — are expected to be installed once weather conditions allow. Winter weather arrived before construction was fully completed, causing some delays, officials said.

“It’s open. We haven’t had a ribbon cutting — we are still waiting on some utility work to be done — but it’s available for use, and it’s another addition to our park inventory in the city of Maryville,” Parks and Recreation Director Jeff Stubblefield said. He noted that a formal ceremony will likely be held in the spring.

The project cost roughly $500,000 and was funded through the city’s local parks sales tax.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Four Republican-led states agreed to settle lawsuits against the federal government over access to voters’ citizenship data, ending a dispute that began with the Biden administration in advance of the 2024 presidential election.

Officials in Iowa, Florida, Indiana, and Ohio entered the settlement with the Department of Homeland Security and Secretary Kristi Noem roughly a year after the states individually sued the agency under President Joe Biden. They had alleged the previous administration was withholding information about citizenship status that they needed to determine whether thousands of registered voters were actually eligible to cast a ballot.

Each of the states could soon run searches for thousands of voters using names, birthdays and Social Security numbers through the federal government’s Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements program. It has been significantly upgraded under the Trump administration. In turn, the settlement says the states may share driver’s license records with the Department of Homeland Security “to assist in improving and modernizing” its database.

The information sharing is likely to be a focal point of the 2026 midterm elections. Voting rights groups have already sued the administration over the expanded program, known as SAVE, arguing that the recent updates could result in eligible voters being unlawfully purged from voter lists. Separately, President Donald Trump’s Department of Justice has asked at least half the states for their complete voter rolls, a request that Democratic elections officials have questioned out of concern that the data would be provided to DHS.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is inviting the public to a Tree Care Workshop at its Northwest Regional Office on Thursday, Dec. 18.

The workshop, led by forester Tim Wolfe, will cover basic pruning practices, proper care for the surrounding environment, identification of tree species and key elements of tree health.

The event will run from 5–7 p.m. Registration is required and is available on the Missouri Department of Conservation website under the events tab.

For questions or additional information, participants may contact Wolfe at timothy.wolfe@mdc.mo.gov.

As fall foliage reaches its peak, the University of Missouri Extension is encouraging residents to think twice before raking and bagging fallen leaves.

Tamra Reall, a horticulture field specialist with MU Extension, says leaves provide vital winter habitat for pollinators. About 70% of bee species nest in the ground, and many native bees hibernate inside dried flower heads and stems during the colder months. Birds also rely on access to seed heads and the insects sheltering there as a winter food source.

Reall says reducing the disturbance of perennials can help protect pollinators. Leaving a natural layer of leaves insulates garden beds, creates organic-rich compost, and can help suppress weeds. She cautions against shredding leaves in flower beds because the process can destroy overwintering eggs and larvae. Instead, she recommends allowing insects to break the leaves down naturally. Leaf piles used for composting should also be left to decompose on their own.

More information is available in the MU Extension guide, “Making and Using Compost,” which can be downloaded here.

The St. Joseph School District Board of Education held a work session last week to review findings from an outside financial analysis, brought in after the district discovered budgeting errors totaling tens of millions of dollars in recent years.

At the board’s direction, administrators hired Linda Quinley, executive finance director for the Missouri School Boards’ Association, to conduct a third-party review. Quinley outlined her conclusions during the session, pointing to a significant drop in enrollment and attendance as a primary factor. The district has lost more than 1,200 students in recent years, a decline she said has reduced state revenue by about $2.8 million.

“As student attendance and student enrollment decline, you’re getting less from the state, and that’s a little piece of the ‘how-we-got-here’ story,” Quinley said.

She noted additional contributors to the shortfall, including minimal property value growth in St. Joseph, which limits property tax revenue, and delays in seeking federal reimbursements.

Quinley warned the board that without corrective action, the district risks harming the broader community. “You have to have adequate reserves to pay your bills on time,” she said. “You cannot risk missing payroll. You cannot miss paying your partner vendors in a timely manner, so they can keep their small businesses open and pay their people.”

She recommended the board hold regular budget check-ins, ask more detailed financial questions and ensure reimbursements are requested promptly. While she emphasized the district is “not in a financial crisis,” she cautioned that it could reach that point without improved practices.

The district has already begun responding to its financial challenges. On Nov. 24, the board approved a consolidation plan that will close Pershing and Eugene Field Elementary Schools and convert Lafayette High School into a middle school. The decision followed months of community discussion and analysis.

St. Joseph’s City Hall is shining in new holiday colors this season as newly installed exterior lighting illuminated the building for the first time last Friday.

The upgrade adds City Hall to the community’s long-standing tradition of festive displays at Krug Park and Hyde Park. The inaugural lighting features green and red LED fixtures to mark the start of the Christmas season.

City officials say the adjustable LED system will allow the building to be lit for holidays, community events and awareness campaigns throughout the year.

The project is part of a series of ongoing improvements planned as City Hall approaches its 100th anniversary in 2027. Recent upgrades include new sidewalks, period-style exterior lighting and fresh interior paint in hallways.

The City of St. Joseph has certified its slate of candidates for the April 7, 2026 municipal election, setting the stage for multiple competitive races as campaigning begins.

To qualify for the ballot, candidates were required to circulate petitions and collect 250 certified signatures for the offices of mayor or councilmember-at-large. District council candidates needed 75 signatures from residents within their district.

City Clerk Paula Heyde said all eight council seats will be on the ballot this cycle, along with the mayor, as the city begins a plan to stagger terms. “The district council members will only serve a two-year term. Everyone else will serve a four-year term,” Heyde said. “And then in two years, the district council will be up for election again for a four-year, and then that will begin the staggering.” She said the change is intended to limit large turnovers and ensure experienced members remain on the council as new members join.

Mayor John Josendale will face three challengers in what will be the city’s only primary race on Feb. 3. “The only candidates that will be on the ballot in February is the mayor, because there weren’t enough candidates for the other positions to have a primary,” Heyde said.

Four residents have filed to challenge the four incumbent councilmembers-at-large, and races have formed in Districts 3 and 4. Heyde noted that overall, slightly fewer candidates filed this year compared to past cycles.

This election marks the final filing period overseen by Heyde, who is retiring in January after more than 40 years with the city.

Once on the brink of extinction, the American bald eagle is again thriving — a recovery now celebrated each winter at the Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge. The species fell to an all-time low of just over 400 nesting pairs nationwide in 1963. After decades of conservation work, the population has rebounded to an estimated 316,000 eagles, including more than 71,000 nesting pairs.

The resurgence led President Joe Biden to officially designate the bald eagle as the national bird on Christmas Eve in 2024. About 30 miles from the Northwest Missouri State University campus, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will host the 46th Annual Eagle Days on Dec. 6–7 at Loess Bluffs. The event coincides with the southbound migration of bald eagles, trumpeter swans, ducks and geese, offering visitors a chance to view wildlife closer to home. Interpretive stops along the refuge’s trail will feature spotting scopes for viewing birds in distant marshes.

Staff from the World Bird Sanctuary will also give live eagle presentations at refuge headquarters, showcasing birds rehabilitated from injuries that prevent their return to the wild. Conservationists note that wildlife visibility can vary with weather conditions.

Visitors hoping to improve their chances of spotting eagles and other species are encouraged to bring binoculars or cameras.

Feminism, women’s rights, family —these are some of the themes in Theatre Northwest’s latest show, “When We Were Young and Unafraid.”

The play, by Sarah Treem, takes place prior to Roe v. Wade in the early 1970s. The story focuses on Agnes Engles, who owns a bed and breakfast, which is turned into a women’s retreat center. Engels was fired from her job as a nurse for performing abortions. Along with Engles, the center is also run by her daughter Penny Engles, a young and rebellious 16-year-old girl.

Show dates were 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13; Nov. 14 and Nov. 15; and 2 p.m. Nov. 16, in the Studio Theater at the Ron Houston Center for the Performing Arts. Senior Billie McCoy said portraying Agnes was a different experience from previous roles.

“A lot of my characters have very strong opinions and Agnes, although she is helping women get abortions and helping women, she's also just very neutral,” McCoy said. “I have had to change a lot of myself because I'm a very opinionated person, so becoming Agnes is a lot different.”

Penny adds another perspective to the women’s retreat as a determined woman who also wants to be “normal” like the other teenagers in her life.

Penny, played by Emercyn Koski, a first-year psychology student at Northwest, made her acting debut at Northwest with this production. Koski said her psychology background gives her a different perspective.

“I’ve definitely thought very deeply about her, especially because she gets very influenced by (character) Mary Anne in the show,” said Koski. “My psychology studies, and just looking at her from farther away, I can see how easily influenced she is; and at the point of life that she is being a teenager, just how her personality was affected.”

The bed and breakfast welcomes a wide variety of characters, such as Hannah, a raging feminist in the 1970s who is looking for a lesbian utopia. Another character is Paul, a music teacher fleeing to the island from Chicago to avoid what he calls “a hippie invasion.” The main resident of the bed and breakfast is Mary Anne Rainer, a woman who flees an abusive relationship at the bed and breakfast and becomes a mentor for Penny.

Freshman Phoenix Erwin portrayed Hannah. She said the diverse cast became a very close group.

“We're such a small cast; we're so tight-knit, so we can really get to know each other and connect,” Erwin said. “I mean, we've put things together so quickly, but we haven't really hit any major road bumps or anything. It's been great."

“When We Were Young and Unafraid” was directed by Senior Paige Waddingham. Integrated into this show are both serious and divisive topics, but it balances these with lighthearted humor.

The show tells stories ranging from trying to ask a boy out to the prom to escaping an abusive relationship. Waddingham said while the specifics are fictional, some of these events happen to real people.

“I just kind of reminded them (the cast) how real this was, so that, while there's really dark, serious moments, it's also like something that gets brushed under the rug,” Waddingham said. “From the very beginning, I shared my vision, and they really adapted that into both scenes; so where it can transition quickly is, one, because of their talent, and two, because we all kind of understand that's the world.”

As work continues on a long-planned pedestrian alleyway project in downtown Maryville, the city is inviting artists to submit proposals for a new mural that will cover three building walls along the renovated passage.

Deanne Davison, the city’s director of tourism, said Maryville is open to working with artists of varying backgrounds and experience levels. “Anyone is eligible to submit a proposal,” Davison said. “At this point, we’re not necessarily looking for completed designs, but we’re looking for people who may have experience in murals or in large-scale artwork.”

The alleyway project, which broke ground in October, aims to transform the space between The Pub and Midwest Bank into a community gathering area featuring a playground, public art, a small pavilion and benches. The addition of murals is expected to further energize the redeveloped urban space.

Davison said several artists have already expressed interest. “Whether it’s someone who’s already done artwork in the community or done something locally, we really feel like we can get someone who is going to be able to reflect the interests of the property owners and also reflect different elements of our community identity,” she said.

Public art is already a growing feature of Maryville’s downtown, including several murals. Davison pointed to the mural on the side of Maryville Florists as an example of how artwork can help shape the city’s character. “In a social media-driven world, having those Instagrammable moments is incredibly important,” she said. “It brings a vibrancy and a sense of community when you see artwork that you connect to.”

Artists interested in submitting ideas or learning more about the project can contact Davison at 660-562-8001 or visit maryville.org.

The Lied Public Library will launch its new Iowa Adventure Pass Program on Nov. 23, giving library cardholders free access to a dozen regional attractions and cultural sites.

The program was developed by Library Director Andrew Hoffman in partnership with the Friends of the Library, a volunteer group that supports library services. Hoffman said the pass is part of the library’s effort to broaden its offerings beyond traditional materials.

“The last couple years we’ve started offering a library of things so you can borrow equipment and board games and metal detectors and telescopes,” Hoffman said. “And one of the things that we wanted to offer was experiences that maybe you can go out and go to a museum or a venue with your family.”

To participate, residents must hold a Lied Public Library card, be adults in good standing, and live in Page County, excluding the cities of Shenandoah and Essex.

The Adventure Pass will provide access to 12 regional venues, including the Glenn Miller Museum, mini golf at the Sports Plex in Shenandoah, the Maryville Hangar, and family passes to the Omaha and Des Moines children’s museums.

Hoffman said the library hopes to grow the program. “We’re excited. We’re hopeful that we will continue to expand the number of venues. Actually, there’s about two or three that we’re still in talks with to hopefully add in the spring,” he said.

More information about the Adventure Pass and other library programs is available on the library’s website.

Gavin McGough

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KXCV-KRNW

Northwest Missouri State University is embarking on a strategic planning process which will guide university strategy, development, and projects for the coming years. President Lance Tatum, in his third year in the position, announced the plan at a meeting of staff and faculty on Nov. 6. The university's current strategy is outlined in the 'Adventure 2030' plan, which was developed during President John Jasinski's tenure.

The new plan, to replace "Adventure 2030," is titled, "Excellence: The Northwest Way. " In announcing the effort, President Tatum said that changes to the world of higher education are requiring the university to update its strategy. At a committee meeting of the Northwest Missouri State University Board of Regents on Oct. 21, President Tatum said those changes mean this plan will also be short-lived.

"I doubt it will be a ten-year plan," he said at the time. "Things are moving so rapidly in higher education. There is so much unpredictability as it relates to student enrollment, funding, federal intervention, and so on, that we will probably make a recommendation to have a plan that does not extend to a full ten years."

It appears that prediction has played out, as "Excellence" will take the university only through the next five years, expiring in 2030. Public colleges and universities in Missouri are anticipating a forthcoming reduction in state funding as general revenues are predicted to drop.

Despite the challenges, while speaking at the plan's launch Tatum said Northwest is well-positioned. It boasts athletic accomplishments, excellent facilities, and strong fundraising campaigns.

The planning process will be guided by broad input from faculty and staff, as well as an advisory group. Once drafted, it will be sent to the University's Board of Regents for adoption.