By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kevinhardy/">Kevin Hard</a>y

The minimum wage for workers will increase in 19 states and 49 cities and counties next month, with the wage floor reaching $15 per hour in dozens of localities, a new report found.

Though the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour has not increased since 2009, many state and local governments continue to increase minimums through legislation or scheduled increases tied to inflation.&nbsp;

An&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nelp.org/insights-research/raises-from-coast-to-coast-in-2026/" target="_blank">annual report&nbsp;</a>from the National Employment Law Project, a nonprofit advocating for workers’ rights, found that 88 jurisdictions will raise their minimum wages by the end of 2026.

In January, Nebraska’s minimum wage will increase from $13.50 to $15 per hour, while Rhode Island will see an increase from $15 to $16 per hour.

All workers in Denver will see the minimum wage increase from $18.81 to $19.29 in January and the minimum in Flagstaff, Arizona, will increase from $17.85 to $18.35 per hour.&nbsp;

The increases come as rising costs of housing, food and utilities are pinching more workers across the country, said Yannet Lathrop, senior researcher and policy analyst at the National Employment Law Project who authored the report. Those costs are particularly challenging for lower-income workers, who are most likely to be affected by minimum wage changes.

“They are really struggling right now,” she said. “These wages basically mitigate the effects of inflation, the effects of the rising cost of living, and the difficulties so many people are having paying for basics, for food, for housing, for medicine — just the basics of life.”

Lathrop said research increasingly finds that higher wages improve educational outcomes, mental and physical health.

“Things that are going to benefit not just the workers, but also the communities and society as a whole,” she said. “I think that’s an important thing to keep in mind.”

Inflation has significantly eroded the buying power of the federal minimum wage since 2009.&nbsp;

Advocates say raising the wage floor helps low-wage workers cover the rising cost of essentials and boosts the economy by putting more money into the pockets of people who are likely to spend it. But many employers, especially small businesses, argue that raising the minimum wage forces them to cut workers or raise prices.

In Rhode Island, lawmakers this year proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/BillText25/HouseText25/H5029.pdf" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;that would raise the minimum wage $1 per year, culminating with a $20 per hour minimum in 2030. But&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/03/05/minimum-wage-hike-bills-draw-maximum-crowds-to-r-i-state-house/" target="_blank">backlash</a>&nbsp;from business groups and economic uncertainty led the Democratic sponsor to successfully push for a “more measured approach” that includes hikes for the next two years rather than five, reaching a $17 hourly minimum by 2027.

That compromise didn’t persuade Republican opponents, who said even the more modest minimum wage change will force layoffs and consumer price hikes.&nbsp;

“The real minimum wage is $0,” said state House Minority Whip David Place, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/06/13/r-i-general-assembly-backs-hourly-minimum-wage-hike-to-16-in-2026-then-17-in-2027/" target="_blank">Rhode Island Current.</a>&nbsp;“That’s what they make when they get fired because business can’t afford to keep them.”

The minimum wage remains stagnant at $7.25 in 20 states, according to the National Employment Law Project. Those are primarily conservative-led states including Alabama, Iowa, Texas and Wyoming.&nbsp;

Last year, Missouri voters&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missourians-vote-to-increase-minimum-wage-require-paid-sick-leave/" target="_blank">approved</a>&nbsp;a ballot measure ensuring paid sick leave and boosting the minimum wage to $15 per hour, with future increases tied to inflation.&nbsp;

But Republican lawmakers took aim at the changes in Jefferson City this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a move Democrats called “absolute disdain” for workers, GOP lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/10/missouri-gov-kehoe-signs-bill-repealing-paid-sick-leave/" target="_blank">passed a bill&nbsp;</a>repealing the paid sick leave provision and nixing the annual minimum wage increases tied to inflation. Missouri’s current $13.75 minimum wage will still rise to $15 next month but is no longer subject to future increases.

“Today, we are protecting the people who make Missouri work—families, job creators, and small business owners—by cutting taxes, rolling back overreach, and eliminating costly mandates,” Republican Gov. Mike Kehoe said in a July statement when he signed the bill into law.&nbsp;

Stateline reporter Kevin Hardy can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:khardy@stateline.org">khardy@stateline.org</a>.

This story was originally produced by&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/12/03/dozens-of-cities-states-hiking-minimum-wages-in-2026-amid-federal-inaction/" target="_blank">Stateline</a>, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Missouri Independent, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736869731847.png" alt="Kansas City resident Kaamilya Hobbs expected to earn at least an extra 31 cents per hour once she returns to work at Arby’s following maternity leave. But Missouri&nbsp; Republican lawmakers took aim at the increase in minimum wage voters approved (Courtesy of the Missouri Workers Center)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City resident Kaamilya Hobbs expected to earn at least an extra 31 cents per hour once she returns to work at Arby’s following maternity leave. But Missouri&nbsp; Republican lawmakers took aim at the increase in minimum wage voters approved (Courtesy of the Missouri Workers Center).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kevinhardy/">Kevin Hard</a>yThe minimum wage for workers will increase in 19 states and 49 cities and counties next month, with the wage floor reaching $15 per hour in dozens of localities, a new report found.Though the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour has not increased since 2009, many state and local governments continue to increase minimums through legislation or scheduled increases tied to inflation.&nbsp;An&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nelp.org/insights-research/raises-from-coast-to-coast-in-2026/" target="_blank">annual report&nbsp;</a>from the National Employment Law Project, a nonprofit advocating for workers’ rights, found that 88 jurisdictions will raise their minimum wages by the end of 2026.In January, Nebraska’s minimum wage will increase from $13.50 to $15 per hour, while Rhode Island will see an increase from $15 to $16 per hour.All workers in Denver will see the minimum wage increase from $18.81 to $19.29 in January and the minimum in Flagstaff, Arizona, will increase from $17.85 to $18.35 per hour.&nbsp;The increases come as rising costs of housing, food and utilities are pinching more workers across the country, said Yannet Lathrop, senior researcher and policy analyst at the National Employment Law Project who authored the report. Those costs are particularly challenging for lower-income workers, who are most likely to be affected by minimum wage changes.“They are really struggling right now,” she said. “These wages basically mitigate the effects of inflation, the effects of the rising cost of living, and the difficulties so many people are having paying for basics, for food, for housing, for medicine — just the basics of life.”Lathrop said research increasingly finds that higher wages improve educational outcomes, mental and physical health.“Things that are going to benefit not just the workers, but also the communities and society as a whole,” she said. “I think that’s an important thing to keep in mind.”Inflation has significantly eroded the buying power of the federal minimum wage since 2009.&nbsp;Advocates say raising the wage floor helps low-wage workers cover the rising cost of essentials and boosts the economy by putting more money into the pockets of people who are likely to spend it. But many employers, especially small businesses, argue that raising the minimum wage forces them to cut workers or raise prices.In Rhode Island, lawmakers this year proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/BillText25/HouseText25/H5029.pdf" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;that would raise the minimum wage $1 per year, culminating with a $20 per hour minimum in 2030. But&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/03/05/minimum-wage-hike-bills-draw-maximum-crowds-to-r-i-state-house/" target="_blank">backlash</a>&nbsp;from business groups and economic uncertainty led the Democratic sponsor to successfully push for a “more measured approach” that includes hikes for the next two years rather than five, reaching a $17 hourly minimum by 2027.That compromise didn’t persuade Republican opponents, who said even the more modest minimum wage change will force layoffs and consumer price hikes.&nbsp;“The real minimum wage is $0,” said state House Minority Whip David Place, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/2025/06/13/r-i-general-assembly-backs-hourly-minimum-wage-hike-to-16-in-2026-then-17-in-2027/" target="_blank">Rhode Island Current.</a>&nbsp;“That’s what they make when they get fired because business can’t afford to keep them.”The minimum wage remains stagnant at $7.25 in 20 states, according to the National Employment Law Project. Those are primarily conservative-led states including Alabama, Iowa, Texas and Wyoming.&nbsp;Last year, Missouri voters&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missourians-vote-to-increase-minimum-wage-require-paid-sick-leave/" target="_blank">approved</a>&nbsp;a ballot measure ensuring paid sick leave and boosting the minimum wage to $15 per hour, with future increases tied to inflation.&nbsp;But Republican lawmakers took aim at the changes in Jefferson City this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a move Democrats called “absolute disdain” for workers, GOP lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/10/missouri-gov-kehoe-signs-bill-repealing-paid-sick-leave/" target="_blank">passed a bill&nbsp;</a>repealing the paid sick leave provision and nixing the annual minimum wage increases tied to inflation. Missouri’s current $13.75 minimum wage will still rise to $15 next month but is no longer subject to future increases.“Today, we are protecting the people who make Missouri work—families, job creators, and small business owners—by cutting taxes, rolling back overreach, and eliminating costly mandates,” Republican Gov. Mike Kehoe said in a July statement when he signed the bill into law.&nbsp;Stateline reporter Kevin Hardy can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:khardy@stateline.org">khardy@stateline.org</a>.This story was originally produced by&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/12/03/dozens-of-cities-states-hiking-minimum-wages-in-2026-amid-federal-inaction/" target="_blank">Stateline</a>, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Missouri Independent, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

Dozens of cities, states hiking minimum wages in 2026 amid federal inaction

CALDWELL COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Friday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2007 Chevy Cobalt driven by a 27-year-old Hamilton man was westbound on U.S. 36 at Route J two miles south of Kidder. The car struck front drivers side of a 2017 Freightliner semi driven by a 53-year-old Shawnee, Kansas man who was stopped in the westbound lane of the highway facing south.

Caldwell County EMS transported both drivers to Liberty Hospital. The Chevy driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. he Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

CALDWELL COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Friday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2007 Chevy Cobalt driven by a 27-year-old Hamilton man was westbound on U.S. 36 at Route J two miles south of Kidder. The car struck front drivers side of a 2017 Freightliner semi driven by a 53-year-old Shawnee, Kansas man who was stopped in the westbound lane of the highway facing south.Caldwell County EMS transported both drivers to Liberty Hospital. The Chevy driver was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP. he Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

2 hospitalized after car, semi crash

With Christmas right around the corner, a lot of people are shopping online and having packages delivered to their homes. Unfortuantley, that also means thieves are out looking for an easy score. There are several easy tips residents can take in order to keep their packages and belongings safe.

Buchannan County Sheriff Bill Puett says, "Don't let packages sit on your porch for hours and hours." He recommends coordinating with trusted neighbors to pick those packages up if you are going to be away from home during the day.

Puett adds, "Check with your employer to see if its okay to have packages shipped to your place of employment. That way you can take them home and they aren't sitting on your porch." 

Puett also says doorbell cameras are an excellent way to identify theives in case your packages are stolen.

Puett recommends if you are shopping at a store to keep your valuables hidden inside your vehicle or take them with you. "Thieves prowl for unlocked cars in parking lots. Cover your items up and keep them in the trunk of the vehicle."

One other tip Puett says is helpful in deterring thieves, is to tear and break down boxes after they are open. "Don't set a bunch of empty boxes on the curb. People driving by can identify boxes and know what items are present and new in your house. We just want everyone to stay safe and enjoy the holidays."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732723333333.png" alt="christmas packages pixabay.png" />
 <figcaption>christmas packages pixabay.png</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHWith Christmas right around the corner, a lot of people are shopping online and having packages delivered to their homes. Unfortuantley, that also means thieves are out looking for an easy score. There are several easy tips residents can take in order to keep their packages and belongings safe.Buchannan County Sheriff Bill Puett says, "Don't let packages sit on your porch for hours and hours." He recommends coordinating with trusted neighbors to pick those packages up if you are going to be away from home during the day.Puett adds, "Check with your employer to see if its okay to have packages shipped to your place of employment. That way you can take them home and they aren't sitting on your porch." Puett also says doorbell cameras are an excellent way to identify theives in case your packages are stolen.Puett recommends if you are shopping at a store to keep your valuables hidden inside your vehicle or take them with you. "Thieves prowl for unlocked cars in parking lots. Cover your items up and keep them in the trunk of the vehicle."One other tip Puett says is helpful in deterring thieves, is to tear and break down boxes after they are open. "Don't set a bunch of empty boxes on the curb. People driving by can identify boxes and know what items are present and new in your house. We just want everyone to stay safe and enjoy the holidays."

Buchanan County Sheriff offers simple tips to keep packages safe from thieves during the holidays

For a third year, the St. Joseph Sports Commission will bring Division One women's basketball to the Civic Arena.  

Director Brett Esely says once again the Kansas State women will come to St. Joseph to play basketball on Sunday 

"I always hate to weigh matchups and say one was better than the other, but arguably of the three years we’ve hosted this game their opponent this year is by far the best of the three as we welcome the #13 ranked team in the country, the Ole Miss Rebels to St. Joe,” Esely says on the KFEQmunnity show. 

The game will round out a weekend of sports after the Missouri high school football championships end on Saturday night. 

Esely says this year Kansas State comes in during a year of transition, so fans that come to the game will see some new faces 

"I think a lot of K State faithful and a lot of people who just enjoy good basketball have taken advantage of this opportunity,” Esely explains.  “It’s another wonderful opportunity for them this year.” 

On the other hand, Esely says the Rebels come into the matchup as one of the hottest teams in the nation currently 

"They’re undefeated, they’re #13 in the country, they had the number one transfer signing class in the country this year, and I know a couple of WNBA scouts will be on hand to watch some of their players, in addition to some of Kansas State’s players, that ask has already come,” Esely says. 

Esely says that alone should show the caliber of this matchup. The Rebels defeated number 18 Notre Dame 69 to 62 last night. 

Esely says often when it comes to Kansas State coming for this matchup, even in the third year, he's asked if this is an exhibition 

"No, this is a real game, uniforms and everything,” Esely says.  “I know this is a good basketball community, I know we have people that love to see great basketball, you have this right in your own backyard and I hope people have an opportunity to come down Sunday afternoon at 2’o clock and see a high level matchup.” 

Tickets are still available for the matchup.  The game will tipoff at 2pm on Sunday at the Civic Arena. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702496764040.jpeg" alt="The Civic Arena will once again host the Bill Snyder Classic for a third year in a row, welcoming the Kansas State women back to St. Joseph in a high level matchup with #13 Ole Miss/ File photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>The Civic Arena will once again host the Bill Snyder Classic for a third year in a row, welcoming the Kansas State women back to St. Joseph in a high level matchup with #13 Ole Miss/ File photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFor a third year, the St. Joseph Sports Commission will bring Division One women's basketball to the Civic Arena. Director Brett Esely says once again the Kansas State women will come to St. Joseph to play basketball on Sunday "I always hate to weigh matchups and say one was better than the other, but arguably of the three years we’ve hosted this game their opponent this year is by far the best of the three as we welcome the #13 ranked team in the country, the Ole Miss Rebels to St. Joe,” Esely says on the KFEQmunnity show. The game will round out a weekend of sports after the Missouri high school football championships end on Saturday night. Esely says this year Kansas State comes in during a year of transition, so fans that come to the game will see some new faces "I think a lot of K State faithful and a lot of people who just enjoy good basketball have taken advantage of this opportunity,” Esely explains. “It’s another wonderful opportunity for them this year.” On the other hand, Esely says the Rebels come into the matchup as one of the hottest teams in the nation currently "They’re undefeated, they’re #13 in the country, they had the number one transfer signing class in the country this year, and I know a couple of WNBA scouts will be on hand to watch some of their players, in addition to some of Kansas State’s players, that ask has already come,” Esely says. Esely says that alone should show the caliber of this matchup. The Rebels defeated number 18 Notre Dame 69 to 62 last night. Esely says often when it comes to Kansas State coming for this matchup, even in the third year, he's asked if this is an exhibition "No, this is a real game, uniforms and everything,” Esely says. “I know this is a good basketball community, I know we have people that love to see great basketball, you have this right in your own backyard and I hope people have an opportunity to come down Sunday afternoon at 2’o clock and see a high level matchup.” Tickets are still available for the matchup. The game will tipoff at 2pm on Sunday at the Civic Arena. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

High level women's college basketball comes to Civic Arena on Sunday

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/4cA1eC0SlGXNbgDjQHgen8?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/7irdc6Teoh9YIORZb1XeCf?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning News

St. Joseph firefighters responded to a structure fire early Friday morning and rescued one person.

Fire investigator with the St. Joseph Fire Department, Casey Crockett, says firefighters were called to the scene at 2025 Jamesport Street. "The garage portion of the house was fully involved." According to Crockett, the fire took place around 3:00 - 3:30 a.m.

According to Crockett there was black smoke coming out of the door when it was opened and the caller said there was someone possibly trapped inside.

Fire crews worked quickly and rescued the person inside, before extinguishing the blaze.

Crockett says the individual was taken to the hospital for treatment. 

Firefighters from Engine 2, Quint 6, Engine 11, Rescue 10, Rescue 1, Truck 7, and Battalion Chief 33 responded to the scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759872172792.jpg" alt="firetruck, fire, emergency, siren, fire department, rescue, firefighter, firetruck, firetruck, fire, emergency, emergency, fire department, fire department, firefighter, firefighter, firefighter, firefighter, firefighter" />
 <figcaption>firetruck, fire, emergency, siren, fire department, rescue, firefighter, firetruck, firetruck, fire, emergency, emergency, fire department, fire department, firefighter, firefighter, firefighter, firefighter, firefighter</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHSt. Joseph firefighters responded to a structure fire early Friday morning and rescued one person.Fire investigator with the St. Joseph Fire Department, Casey Crockett, says firefighters were called to the scene at 2025 Jamesport Street. "The garage portion of the house was fully involved." According to Crockett, the fire took place around 3:00 - 3:30 a.m.According to Crockett there was black smoke coming out of the door when it was opened and the caller said there was someone possibly trapped inside.Fire crews worked quickly and rescued the person inside, before extinguishing the blaze.Crockett says the individual was taken to the hospital for treatment. Firefighters from Engine 2, Quint 6, Engine 11, Rescue 10, Rescue 1, Truck 7, and Battalion Chief 33 responded to the scene.The fire is under investigation.

St. Joseph firefighters rescue one person in structure fire

The AFL-CIO Adopt-A-Family Christmas program is in its 42nd year and is seeking donations to help area families this holiday season.

Executive Director of AFL-CIO Community Services, Nichi Seckinger, says there are plenty of families who have already applied to be adopted. "We have over 880 families in the system as of right now. Of those families, 385 have already been adopted."

Those seeking adoption have until 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5 to pick up applications or download them. Applications must be submitted no later than Monday, Dec. 8 at 5 p.m. to be considered for adoption. Seckinger says no applications will be taken after that deadline.

Applications can be found at <a href="https://www.helpmenow.org/adopt-a-family">helpmenow.org/adopt-a-family</a>.

Seckinger says, "People were pretty proactive this year and turned in applications early. With the time remaining, we're expecting to see over 900 families who qualify for adoption."

For anyone who would like to adopt a family, Seckinger says, "A good portion of the families provide lists of what they need. A lot are basic needs like clothing for the kids, undergarments and diapers."

According to Seckinger, seniors and disabled adults who have applied for the program often need hygiene items and cleaning supplies, such as laundry detergent, toilet paper, and paper towels.

For families with children, Seckinger recommends donations of toys and books.

Information from AFL-CIO indicates the estimated cost to adopt one child under 5 is $50; $75 - $80 for children age 5 - 12; and $75 - $100 is common for teens.

Adopters are asked to provide at least one new gift per child. Any additonal items for the children and gifts for the parents are at the adopter's discretion. 

Monetary donations are also needed and the agency uses the money to purchase gift cards and food vouchers to help supplement those families who are not chosen for public adoption. 

Seckinger says AFL-CIO also hosts a gift room, "About a third of our families are not publically adopted and they can shop in the gift room from Dec. 17 till Christmas Eve. We serve families right up to the very end."

AFL-CIO serves eighteen counties throughout Missouri and Doniphan County in Kansas. Seckinger says each year the program helps about 3,000 people. "We've been doing this 1983, and we keep track of the numbers. After this year, we are on track to have helped over 100,000 people."

Anyone who would like to adopt a family can stop by AFL-CIO office located at 1203 North 6th Street in St. Joseph. Hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. The office is also open Saturdays, Dec. 6, 13, and 20 from 9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. For more information, call the agency at 816-341-1131.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763636013732.jpeg" alt="child with christmas gift pixabay.jpg" />
 <figcaption>child with christmas gift pixabay.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHThe AFL-CIO Adopt-A-Family Christmas program is in its 42nd year and is seeking donations to help area families this holiday season.Executive Director of AFL-CIO Community Services, Nichi Seckinger, says there are plenty of families who have already applied to be adopted. "We have over 880 families in the system as of right now. Of those families, 385 have already been adopted."Those seeking adoption have until 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5 to pick up applications or download them. Applications must be submitted no later than Monday, Dec. 8 at 5 p.m. to be considered for adoption. Seckinger says no applications will be taken after that deadline.Applications can be found at <a href="https://www.helpmenow.org/adopt-a-family">helpmenow.org/adopt-a-family</a>.Seckinger says, "People were pretty proactive this year and turned in applications early. With the time remaining, we're expecting to see over 900 families who qualify for adoption."For anyone who would like to adopt a family, Seckinger says, "A good portion of the families provide lists of what they need. A lot are basic needs like clothing for the kids, undergarments and diapers."According to Seckinger, seniors and disabled adults who have applied for the program often need hygiene items and cleaning supplies, such as laundry detergent, toilet paper, and paper towels.For families with children, Seckinger recommends donations of toys and books.Information from AFL-CIO indicates the estimated cost to adopt one child under 5 is $50; $75 - $80 for children age 5 - 12; and $75 - $100 is common for teens.Adopters are asked to provide at least one new gift per child. Any additonal items for the children and gifts for the parents are at the adopter's discretion. Monetary donations are also needed and the agency uses the money to purchase gift cards and food vouchers to help supplement those families who are not chosen for public adoption. Seckinger says AFL-CIO also hosts a gift room, "About a third of our families are not publically adopted and they can shop in the gift room from Dec. 17 till Christmas Eve. We serve families right up to the very end."AFL-CIO serves eighteen counties throughout Missouri and Doniphan County in Kansas. Seckinger says each year the program helps about 3,000 people. "We've been doing this 1983, and we keep track of the numbers. After this year, we are on track to have helped over 100,000 people."Anyone who would like to adopt a family can stop by AFL-CIO office located at 1203 North 6th Street in St. Joseph. Hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. The office is also open Saturdays, Dec. 6, 13, and 20 from 9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. For more information, call the agency at 816-341-1131.

AFL-CIO Adopt-A-Family Christmas program seeking donations

Winter is here and that means residents are bundling up and staying warm anyway they can. Two popular ways of warming up during the season are the use of space heaters and electric blankets. However, anytime electricty is used there are potential risks, such as fires. 

The Consumer Product Saftey Commission reports space heaters cause more than 20,000 house fires each year.

Spokesperson for Evergy, Courtney Lewis, has some tips to help keep yourself safe.

Lewis says double-checking the directions is a good idea. "Make sure oyu review any instructions your space heater comes with. Make sure the cords are still good, anything cracked or frayed is not worth the risk. Throw it away."

Lewis recommends placing space heaters on flat surfaces and never plug them into a power strip. "Always plug your space heater into a wall outlet as they draw a lot of load. Do not use extension cords to power your space heater."

Space heaters must meet specific safety requirements and Lewis says always make sure space heaters are UL approved. That means the product has been tested and meets the requirements. 

As for electric blankets, Lewis says they are a great way to stay warm, but never fold them when not in use. "If you fold them, you're folding the wires inside. They could fray and overheat which could cause a fire."

In addtition, "Don't use electric blankets or heating pads while you're sleeping. Have one with a timer, and put them away when not in use."

Other recommended tips for space heater and electric blanket safety include: keeping heaters at least 3 feet from other items, especially blankets and curtains, do not leave them running unattended, and only use space heaters that are the proper size for the room in order to avoid wasting energy or overheating a room.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762538118187.png" alt="space heater electric heater unsplash.png" />
 <figcaption>space heater electric heater unsplash.png</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHWinter is here and that means residents are bundling up and staying warm anyway they can. Two popular ways of warming up during the season are the use of space heaters and electric blankets. However, anytime electricty is used there are potential risks, such as fires. The Consumer Product Saftey Commission reports space heaters cause more than 20,000 house fires each year.Spokesperson for Evergy, Courtney Lewis, has some tips to help keep yourself safe.Lewis says double-checking the directions is a good idea. "Make sure oyu review any instructions your space heater comes with. Make sure the cords are still good, anything cracked or frayed is not worth the risk. Throw it away."Lewis recommends placing space heaters on flat surfaces and never plug them into a power strip. "Always plug your space heater into a wall outlet as they draw a lot of load. Do not use extension cords to power your space heater."Space heaters must meet specific safety requirements and Lewis says always make sure space heaters are UL approved. That means the product has been tested and meets the requirements. As for electric blankets, Lewis says they are a great way to stay warm, but never fold them when not in use. "If you fold them, you're folding the wires inside. They could fray and overheat which could cause a fire."In addtition, "Don't use electric blankets or heating pads while you're sleeping. Have one with a timer, and put them away when not in use."Other recommended tips for space heater and electric blanket safety include: keeping heaters at least 3 feet from other items, especially blankets and curtains, do not leave them running unattended, and only use space heaters that are the proper size for the room in order to avoid wasting energy or overheating a room.

Stay safe when using space heaters and electric blankets this winter

With the closure of the Gene Field Road Bridge, and a scheduled project next year, the Missouri Department of Transportation will hold a public hearing  

District engineer Austin Hibler says the hearing will be held on December 17th at the northwest district offices  

"If individuals have questions or comments, or would like more information about the project, there’s an opportunity there to attend that meeting and hear more about it,” Hibler tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post 

Hibler says during the meeting MoDOT officials will present their plan to the public for the Gene Field bridge project 

"Our general timeline at that point, and then we would be looking for any kind of feedback for impacts or questions or concerns,” Hibler explains. 

Attendees are welcome to come any time between 4 to 6pm. to speak with project leaders. There will be no formal presentation. 

The bridge project is slated to begin next spring, with MoDOT hopeful construction can begin in the summer. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostWith the closure of the Gene Field Road Bridge, and a scheduled project next year, the Missouri Department of Transportation will hold a public hearing District engineer Austin Hibler says the hearing will be held on December 17th at the northwest district offices "If individuals have questions or comments, or would like more information about the project, there’s an opportunity there to attend that meeting and hear more about it,” Hibler tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post Hibler says during the meeting MoDOT officials will present their plan to the public for the Gene Field bridge project "Our general timeline at that point, and then we would be looking for any kind of feedback for impacts or questions or concerns,” Hibler explains. Attendees are welcome to come any time between 4 to 6pm. to speak with project leaders. There will be no formal presentation. The bridge project is slated to begin next spring, with MoDOT hopeful construction can begin in the summer. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

MoDOT to hold public hearing on upcoming Gene Field Road bridge project

A ballot summary written by the Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins is ‘insufficient and unfair,’ a Cole County judge ruled

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ahanshaw/">Annelise Hanshaw</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins must rewrite the summary ballot language for an initiative petition that seeks to enshrine education as a fundamental right in the state’s constitution, a Cole County judge ruled Tuesday.

The Missouri Right to Education Initiative challenged the ballot language as “deceptive and prejudicial” in August, pointing to two bullet points it says draws conclusions that are not in the text of the amendment.

The proposed amendment seeks to add 23 words to the state’s constitution, making education a “fundamental right” and putting a duty on the state to provide “adequate, thorough, and uniform high quality free public schools.”

Hoskins’ summary says the amendment would “potentially eliminate existing state scholarship programs that provide direct aid to students with disabilities and low-income families” and “prevent the state from supporting educational choices other than free public schools.”

Cole County Circuit Court Judge Christopher Limbaugh ruled the descriptors are insufficient and unfair, saying that they go beyond the “legal and probable effects” of the amendment. The word “potentially,” Limbaugh wrote, reveals that the likelihood of scholarship programs being eliminated is less than probable.

“The elimination of certain scholarships would only occur as the result of future litigation,” Limbaugh wrote in his ruling. “This court can’t possibly predetermine the result of that future litigation.”

Limbaugh also took issue with the characterization that the amendment would prevent the state from supporting other educational options.

The ruling sends the summary back for Hoskins to rewrite by Dec. 8.

The Missouri Right to Education Initiative focuses on public education funding on its website, not commenting on education formats other than traditional public schools.

“Only public schools guarantee that all students are provided education, regardless of financial status or ability,” said Spencer Toder, the campaign’s treasurer, said in a press release Wednesday. “When passed, we will finally be able to hold the state accountable and ensure that every child in Missouri has access to a public school with the necessary resources for them to thrive.”

A separate campaign, filed in August by an attorney with the public education law firm EdCounsel, also challenged the Secretary of State’s summary of its proposed amendment. In that case, Hoskins’ ballot language was affirmed apart from a “drafting error” that was sent back for correction.

A spokesperson for the secretary of state’s office would not comment on “pending litigation.”

“Related to the process, the office has three opportunities to submit ballot language,” she said in an email. “The process is working.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759061969764.png" alt="&nbsp;Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>A ballot summary written by the Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins is ‘insufficient and unfair,’ a Cole County judge ruled</h2>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ahanshaw/">Annelise Hanshaw</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins must rewrite the summary ballot language for an initiative petition that seeks to enshrine education as a fundamental right in the state’s constitution, a Cole County judge ruled Tuesday.The Missouri Right to Education Initiative challenged the ballot language as “deceptive and prejudicial” in August, pointing to two bullet points it says draws conclusions that are not in the text of the amendment.The proposed amendment seeks to add 23 words to the state’s constitution, making education a “fundamental right” and putting a duty on the state to provide “adequate, thorough, and uniform high quality free public schools.”Hoskins’ summary says the amendment would “potentially eliminate existing state scholarship programs that provide direct aid to students with disabilities and low-income families” and “prevent the state from supporting educational choices other than free public schools.”Cole County Circuit Court Judge Christopher Limbaugh ruled the descriptors are insufficient and unfair, saying that they go beyond the “legal and probable effects” of the amendment. The word “potentially,” Limbaugh wrote, reveals that the likelihood of scholarship programs being eliminated is less than probable.“The elimination of certain scholarships would only occur as the result of future litigation,” Limbaugh wrote in his ruling. “This court can’t possibly predetermine the result of that future litigation.”Limbaugh also took issue with the characterization that the amendment would prevent the state from supporting other educational options.The ruling sends the summary back for Hoskins to rewrite by Dec. 8.The Missouri Right to Education Initiative focuses on public education funding on its website, not commenting on education formats other than traditional public schools.“Only public schools guarantee that all students are provided education, regardless of financial status or ability,” said Spencer Toder, the campaign’s treasurer, said in a press release Wednesday. “When passed, we will finally be able to hold the state accountable and ensure that every child in Missouri has access to a public school with the necessary resources for them to thrive.”A separate campaign, filed in August by an attorney with the public education law firm EdCounsel, also challenged the Secretary of State’s summary of its proposed amendment. In that case, Hoskins’ ballot language was affirmed apart from a “drafting error” that was sent back for correction.A spokesperson for the secretary of state’s office would not comment on “pending litigation.”“Related to the process, the office has three opportunities to submit ballot language,” she said in an email. “The process is working.”

Judge orders rewrite of ballot summary for Mo. public education initiative petition

Carriage rides are once again being offered in Downtown St. Joseph during the holiday season.

Christy George, with the St. Joseph Downtown Community Improvement District, says the carriage rides are taking place Saturday, Dec. 6th and Saturday, Dec. 20th.

"They take place right outside across from the Pop-up Villiage on Felix, close to the park across from the German American building," George says.

The carriage rides are free of charge and on a "first come, first serve" basis. George says, "We'll be monitoring it, and if it gets close to the end and you're in line, then you'll get to ride."

According to George, the rides begin at 624 Felix, then run up 8th Street to Edmond and onto 6th Street.

There will be a four-seat carriage and a two-seat carriage available each night. George notes, "Availabilty depends on the weather, as well."

The carriage rides take place both nights from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.

George adds, "On Saturday, December 13th, there will be hayrides instead of carriage rides."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764859001079.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHCarriage rides are once again being offered in Downtown St. Joseph during the holiday season.Christy George, with the St. Joseph Downtown Community Improvement District, says the carriage rides are taking place Saturday, Dec. 6th and Saturday, Dec. 20th."They take place right outside across from the Pop-up Villiage on Felix, close to the park across from the German American building," George says.The carriage rides are free of charge and on a "first come, first serve" basis. George says, "We'll be monitoring it, and if it gets close to the end and you're in line, then you'll get to ride."According to George, the rides begin at 624 Felix, then run up 8th Street to Edmond and onto 6th Street.There will be a four-seat carriage and a two-seat carriage available each night. George notes, "Availabilty depends on the weather, as well."The carriage rides take place both nights from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.George adds, "On Saturday, December 13th, there will be hayrides instead of carriage rides."

Downtown St. Joseph carriage rides return for the holiday season

Join us live from Missouri Western State University at Spratt Memorial Stadium as the Rock Port Blue Jays take on the Worth County Tigers in an 8-man championship matchup.&nbsp;

The matchup features two premiere teams from northwest Missouri, with Rock Port coming in undefeated at 13-0, champions of the 275 Conference, and Worth County at 12-1, champions of the GRC with their only loss coming to Rock Port in week one of the regular season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Matt Pike and Nathan Stuedle will have the call from Spratt Stadium.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 7pm.&nbsp; Our pregame will begin at 6 pm.

By MATT PIKEJoin us live from Missouri Western State University at Spratt Memorial Stadium as the Rock Port Blue Jays take on the Worth County Tigers in an 8-man championship matchup.&nbsp;The matchup features two premiere teams from northwest Missouri, with Rock Port coming in undefeated at 13-0, champions of the 275 Conference, and Worth County at 12-1, champions of the GRC with their only loss coming to Rock Port in week one of the regular season.&nbsp;&nbsp;Matt Pike and Nathan Stuedle will have the call from Spratt Stadium.&nbsp; Kickoff is at 7pm.&nbsp; Our pregame will begin at 6 pm.<div><iframe src="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/SJPOST" width="100%" height="400" style="border:1px solid black;">
</iframe></div>

LIVE: Rock Port takes on Worth County in 8-man High School championship

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/45uv6DhKd6uVn8VmceBGhH?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/4hmtuok0cFXP1Nq75SW48o?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

St. Joseph Transit announced Thursday the temporary relocation of the Woodbine Transfer Center to 1501 Village Drive, effective Monday, Dec. 8, due to deteriorating pavement conditions at the current facility.

The temporary move will require minor route adjustments, though all scheduled times will remain unchanged. Riders should anticipate normal service levels during the transition and may use an existing bus shelter at the Village Drive location.

St. Joseph Transit plans to begin necessary upgrades during the upcoming construction season. The agency stated these improvements are required to ensure the safe return of buses to the current Woodbine Transfer Center location once the work is completed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764869004777.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Transit R.jpg" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Transit R.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHSt. Joseph Transit announced Thursday the temporary relocation of the Woodbine Transfer Center to 1501 Village Drive, effective Monday, Dec. 8, due to deteriorating pavement conditions at the current facility.The temporary move will require minor route adjustments, though all scheduled times will remain unchanged. Riders should anticipate normal service levels during the transition and may use an existing bus shelter at the Village Drive location.St. Joseph Transit plans to begin necessary upgrades during the upcoming construction season. The agency stated these improvements are required to ensure the safe return of buses to the current Woodbine Transfer Center location once the work is completed.

St. Joseph Transit Woodbine Transfer Center Moving Temporarily

A 55-year-old
Gallatin woman, reported missing for days, has been found dead in the Grand
River.

The Daviess County
Sheriff’s Office reports a water rescue operation recovered the body of Julie
Vyrostek from the Grand River early Monday afternoon.

The office says
the family reported Vyrostek missing on November 26th and expressed
concern about her well-being. A search began. It included a Facebook post
requesting help from the public. Her vehicle was found on a field access road
outside of Gallatin, near the Grand River.

The Missouri State
Highway Patrol and the Missouri Department of Conservation joined the search,
which included searching the river and the land around the river.

You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764848338403.jpeg" alt="Julie Vyrostek/Daviess County Sheriff's Office photo" />
 <figcaption>Julie Vyrostek/Daviess County Sheriff's Office photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINA 55-year-old
Gallatin woman, reported missing for days, has been found dead in the Grand
River.The Daviess County
Sheriff’s Office reports a water rescue operation recovered the body of Julie
Vyrostek from the Grand River early Monday afternoon.The office says
the family reported Vyrostek missing on November 26th and expressed
concern about her well-being. A search began. It included a Facebook post
requesting help from the public. Her vehicle was found on a field access road
outside of Gallatin, near the Grand River.The Missouri State
Highway Patrol and the Missouri Department of Conservation joined the search,
which included searching the river and the land around the river.The investigation
continues.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

Gallatin woman reported missing found dead in Grand River

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

The campaign to repeal Missouri’s newly gerrymandered congressional map says it will turn in signatures to put the issue on the statewide ballot next week.

If enough signatures were collected, the map will be placed on hold until voters decide its fate at the ballot box next year.&nbsp;

“This unprecedented show of grassroots power signals the overwhelming public demand for Missourians to have a say in whether (the map) becomes law,” People Not Politicians, the political action committee behind the referendum campaign, said in a statement Wednesday.&nbsp;

The new map was crafted at the urging of President Donald Trump in order to give Republicans control of seven of Missouri’s eight seats in Congress. To do it, GOP lawmakers broke up the Kansas City-based 5th District represented by Democrat Emanuel Cleaver.

Soon after lawmakers passed the map, People Not Politicians submitted paperwork for a referendum to the Missouri secretary of state. Since then, the group has raised millions of dollars — mostly from out-of-state nonprofits who don’t have to disclose their donors — and reportedly collected more than 200,000 signatures.&nbsp;

To succeed, a referendum petition must have at least 106,000 signatures from registered voters distributed among six of the state’s eight congressional districts.

From the moment the referendum campaign launched, Republicans have worked overtime to undermine it.

Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, a first-term Republican, announced he would&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/26/effort-to-force-vote-on-gerrymandered-missouri-congressional-map-hits-roadblock/">not accept any signatures</a>&nbsp;collected before the governor signed the new map into law, a move that would invalidate more than 90,000 signatures. A Cole County judge is scheduled to hear arguments over that decision next week.&nbsp;

Hoskins is also&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/11/06/referendum-backers-reject-ballot-title-for-vote-on-gerrymandered-missouri-congressional-map/">in court defending the ballot summary</a>&nbsp;he wrote for the referendum in which he says the map “better reflects statewide voting patterns” and replaces a “gerrymandered” version that “protects incumbent politicians.”

Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, a Republican appointed to the position in September, filed a federal lawsuit arguing that even though the congressional map is a piece of legislation approved by the General Assembly, it should&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/11/26/federal-ruling-on-missouri-gerrymandered-redistricting-plan-to-come-in-early-december/">not be subject to a citizen referendum</a>.&nbsp;

Hanaway has also accused a company hired by People Not Politicians to collect signatures of&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/02/missouri-gop-gerrymandered-referendum-human-trafficking/">bringing undocumented immigrants into the state</a>&nbsp;to assist with the campaign. The attorney general has presented no evidence to support this claim, and the company has adamantly denied it.&nbsp;

The company, Advanced Micro Targeting, filed a federal lawsuit alleging four Republican consulting firms are involved in an effort to pay the company’s employees to abandon their work, turn over any signatures they gathered and badmouth the company —&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/11/21/lawsuit-details-alleged-scheme-to-sabotage-referendum-on-gerrymandered-missouri-congressional-map/">all to sabotage the petition drive</a>.

The Republican National Committee has bombarded Missourians with text messages attacking the referendum campaign. And on Wednesday, the president’s son — Donald Trump Jr. — called People Not Politicians Director Richard Von Glahn a “leftist nut” on social media, drawing a response from the Missouri Republican Party accusing Von Glahn of being a “communist.”&nbsp;

Trump Jr.’s social media post also caused a pile on by accounts that appear to be based overseas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760697422004.png" alt="Protesters gather in the Missouri Capitol rotunda Sept. 10 in opposition to a gerrymandered congressional district map (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Protesters gather in the Missouri Capitol rotunda Sept. 10 in opposition to a gerrymandered congressional district map (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>The campaign to repeal Missouri’s newly gerrymandered congressional map says it will turn in signatures to put the issue on the statewide ballot next week.If enough signatures were collected, the map will be placed on hold until voters decide its fate at the ballot box next year.&nbsp;“This unprecedented show of grassroots power signals the overwhelming public demand for Missourians to have a say in whether (the map) becomes law,” People Not Politicians, the political action committee behind the referendum campaign, said in a statement Wednesday.&nbsp;The new map was crafted at the urging of President Donald Trump in order to give Republicans control of seven of Missouri’s eight seats in Congress. To do it, GOP lawmakers broke up the Kansas City-based 5th District represented by Democrat Emanuel Cleaver.Soon after lawmakers passed the map, People Not Politicians submitted paperwork for a referendum to the Missouri secretary of state. Since then, the group has raised millions of dollars — mostly from out-of-state nonprofits who don’t have to disclose their donors — and reportedly collected more than 200,000 signatures.&nbsp;To succeed, a referendum petition must have at least 106,000 signatures from registered voters distributed among six of the state’s eight congressional districts.From the moment the referendum campaign launched, Republicans have worked overtime to undermine it.Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, a first-term Republican, announced he would&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/26/effort-to-force-vote-on-gerrymandered-missouri-congressional-map-hits-roadblock/">not accept any signatures</a>&nbsp;collected before the governor signed the new map into law, a move that would invalidate more than 90,000 signatures. A Cole County judge is scheduled to hear arguments over that decision next week.&nbsp;Hoskins is also&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/11/06/referendum-backers-reject-ballot-title-for-vote-on-gerrymandered-missouri-congressional-map/">in court defending the ballot summary</a>&nbsp;he wrote for the referendum in which he says the map “better reflects statewide voting patterns” and replaces a “gerrymandered” version that “protects incumbent politicians.”Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, a Republican appointed to the position in September, filed a federal lawsuit arguing that even though the congressional map is a piece of legislation approved by the General Assembly, it should&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/11/26/federal-ruling-on-missouri-gerrymandered-redistricting-plan-to-come-in-early-december/">not be subject to a citizen referendum</a>.&nbsp;Hanaway has also accused a company hired by People Not Politicians to collect signatures of&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/02/missouri-gop-gerrymandered-referendum-human-trafficking/">bringing undocumented immigrants into the state</a>&nbsp;to assist with the campaign. The attorney general has presented no evidence to support this claim, and the company has adamantly denied it.&nbsp;The company, Advanced Micro Targeting, filed a federal lawsuit alleging four Republican consulting firms are involved in an effort to pay the company’s employees to abandon their work, turn over any signatures they gathered and badmouth the company —&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/11/21/lawsuit-details-alleged-scheme-to-sabotage-referendum-on-gerrymandered-missouri-congressional-map/">all to sabotage the petition drive</a>.The Republican National Committee has bombarded Missourians with text messages attacking the referendum campaign. And on Wednesday, the president’s son — Donald Trump Jr. — called People Not Politicians Director Richard Von Glahn a “leftist nut” on social media, drawing a response from the Missouri Republican Party accusing Von Glahn of being a “communist.”&nbsp;Trump Jr.’s social media post also caused a pile on by accounts that appear to be based overseas.

Missouri campaign to repeal gerrymandered map plans to submit signatures next week

For the first time ever, all six classes of high school football, along with 8-man, will battle for a championship in St. Joseph at Spratt Stadium on the Missouri Western State University campus. 

St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esley says there will be a high level of football played this weekend, and says look no further than down the road in Platte City 

"They play in the Class 5 championship game at 7’o clock Friday night, they play Carthage another very good team, 13-0 against 12-1,” Esely says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “Their quarterback is a division one signee in Rocco Marriott.” 

Marriott originally signed with James Madison, but just last week flipped his commitment, signing with UCF in the Big 12. 

"That’s all to say very, very high-level talent that will be here in St. Joseph and at Spratt Stadium at Missouri Western this coming week,” Esely says.  “And Rocco’s story is just one of a number of student athlete’s that will compete here this week.” 

Esely says it's exciting to have teams coming from all over the state. 

"They come from anywhere as close as our 8-man teams in Rock Port and Worth County which will be a great championship game on Thursday night, to Platte County which is right down the road, to Kearney, to Lift for Life Academy which is in St. Louis, to Carthage, to Tipton, to Seneca, to Hannibal,” Esely explains.  “So, this championship really encompasses all facets, all areas of the state that will come to St. Joe the spotlight will be on here.” 

The championships had been hosted in Columbia at the home of the Missouri Tigers, Faurot Field, for the last decade, after leaving St. Louis.  

Esely, says the event will bring 14 of the best teams from across the state to Missouri Western to compete 

"I know we have a lot of people in this community who like football, that support high school football, that travel to watch high school football,” Esely says.  “Uh, you don’t have to travel anywhere to watch high school football this weekend, the best seven games are right here beginning this Thursday.” 

The football championships kickoff with the 8-man championship game tomorrow (THU) between Worth County and Rock Port. 

Kickoff is at 7pm.  We will have the game streamed on St. Joseph Post and Maryville Post.  Matt Pike and Nathan Stuedle will be on the call with pregame at 6pm. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFor the first time ever, all six classes of high school football, along with 8-man, will battle for a championship in St. Joseph at Spratt Stadium on the Missouri Western State University campus. St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esley says there will be a high level of football played this weekend, and says look no further than down the road in Platte City "They play in the Class 5 championship game at 7’o clock Friday night, they play Carthage another very good team, 13-0 against 12-1,” Esely says on the KFEQmunnity show. “Their quarterback is a division one signee in Rocco Marriott.” Marriott originally signed with James Madison, but just last week flipped his commitment, signing with UCF in the Big 12. "That’s all to say very, very high-level talent that will be here in St. Joseph and at Spratt Stadium at Missouri Western this coming week,” Esely says. “And Rocco’s story is just one of a number of student athlete’s that will compete here this week.” Esely says it's exciting to have teams coming from all over the state. "They come from anywhere as close as our 8-man teams in Rock Port and Worth County which will be a great championship game on Thursday night, to Platte County which is right down the road, to Kearney, to Lift for Life Academy which is in St. Louis, to Carthage, to Tipton, to Seneca, to Hannibal,” Esely explains. “So, this championship really encompasses all facets, all areas of the state that will come to St. Joe the spotlight will be on here.” The championships had been hosted in Columbia at the home of the Missouri Tigers, Faurot Field, for the last decade, after leaving St. Louis. Esely, says the event will bring 14 of the best teams from across the state to Missouri Western to compete "I know we have a lot of people in this community who like football, that support high school football, that travel to watch high school football,” Esely says. “Uh, you don’t have to travel anywhere to watch high school football this weekend, the best seven games are right here beginning this Thursday.” The football championships kickoff with the 8-man championship game tomorrow (THU) between Worth County and Rock Port. Kickoff is at 7pm. We will have the game streamed on St. Joseph Post and Maryville Post. Matt Pike and Nathan Stuedle will be on the call with pregame at 6pm. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

St. Joseph ready to host MSHSAA high school championship football

With temperatures plunging to single digits throughout the area, some residents may need a place to warm up.

St. Joseph and Savannah have warming centers in place to help accomodate those that need to get out of the elements.

Director of Community Investments with United Way of Greater St. Joseph, Jodi Flurry, says there are several warming center locations in the city. "For the area, its mainly the public library system, as well as the Salvation Army."

The locations include the Downtown Library, Carnegie Library, East Hills Library, and Washington Park Library. The Rolling Hills Libraries in St. Joe and Savannah also act as warming centers.

Flurry adds, "The Salvation Army also has some availabilty for people to sit and warm up in the mornings."

There are some restrictions on what people can bring into the warming centers, which Flurry says includes but is not limited to alcohol, weapons, smoking and animals. "Service animals are likely allowed, but beyond that, there may be restrictions on bringing in animals."

According to Flurry, warming center hours vary by day and by branch. She recommends calling the warming centers directly for exact hours or to visit the <a href="https://www.stjosephunitedway.org/warming-centers-emergency-shelters">United Way of Greater St. Joseph's website</a>.

Flurry notes most warming centers are ADA compliant and have restrooms and water fountains.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764790965334.jpeg" alt="Snow flurries.jpeg" />
 <figcaption>Snow flurries.jpeg</figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHWith temperatures plunging to single digits throughout the area, some residents may need a place to warm up.St. Joseph and Savannah have warming centers in place to help accomodate those that need to get out of the elements.Director of Community Investments with United Way of Greater St. Joseph, Jodi Flurry, says there are several warming center locations in the city. "For the area, its mainly the public library system, as well as the Salvation Army."The locations include the Downtown Library, Carnegie Library, East Hills Library, and Washington Park Library. The Rolling Hills Libraries in St. Joe and Savannah also act as warming centers.Flurry adds, "The Salvation Army also has some availabilty for people to sit and warm up in the mornings."There are some restrictions on what people can bring into the warming centers, which Flurry says includes but is not limited to alcohol, weapons, smoking and animals. "Service animals are likely allowed, but beyond that, there may be restrictions on bringing in animals."According to Flurry, warming center hours vary by day and by branch. She recommends calling the warming centers directly for exact hours or to visit the <a href="https://www.stjosephunitedway.org/warming-centers-emergency-shelters">United Way of Greater St. Joseph's website</a>.Flurry notes most warming centers are ADA compliant and have restrooms and water fountains.

Warming centers offered in St. Joseph and Savannah

CLINTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Wednesday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Ford F150 driven by a 42-year-old Cameron man was westbound on Route HH five miles south of Cameron. The pickup crossed the center of the road, traveled off the south side of the road and struck a tree.

A patrol vehicle transported the driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The driver was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

CLINTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Wednesday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Ford F150 driven by a 42-year-old Cameron man was westbound on Route HH five miles south of Cameron. The pickup crossed the center of the road, traveled off the south side of the road and struck a tree.A patrol vehicle transported the driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. The driver was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Mo. man injured after pickup strikes a tree

The city has
adorned City Hall with green and red lighting to celebrate the Christmas season.
The new look actually debuted in conjunction with the opening of the Holiday
Park and South Pole displays at Krug and Hyde Parks.

Fourteen LED
fixtures have been added to City Hall, five each on the north and south sides
of the building and two each on the east and west sides. The new lighting can
be used for a variety of special events and commemorations.

The lighting
project is part of the improvements being made to St. Joseph City Hall as it moves
closer to its centennial celebration in 2027. Sidewalks have been replaced, new
period lighting has been installed along the balustrade facing Civic Center
Park, the fountain on the north side of the building is being regraded and
rebuilt, hallways are being repainted, and elevators are being upgraded, among
other improvements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764789571647.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of City of St. Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of City of St. Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph City
Hall has a festive look.The city has
adorned City Hall with green and red lighting to celebrate the Christmas season.
The new look actually debuted in conjunction with the opening of the Holiday
Park and South Pole displays at Krug and Hyde Parks.Fourteen LED
fixtures have been added to City Hall, five each on the north and south sides
of the building and two each on the east and west sides. The new lighting can
be used for a variety of special events and commemorations.The lighting
project is part of the improvements being made to St. Joseph City Hall as it moves
closer to its centennial celebration in 2027. Sidewalks have been replaced, new
period lighting has been installed along the balustrade facing Civic Center
Park, the fountain on the north side of the building is being regraded and
rebuilt, hallways are being repainted, and elevators are being upgraded, among
other improvements.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

St. Joseph City Hall takes on a festive look

St. Joseph police
continue to investigate a shooting at the Pleasant Heights Apartment complex,
now indicating juveniles might have been involved.

The St. Joseph
Police Department reports officers responded to a shots fired call around 1:30
Monday morning in the 3200 block of South 36th Street. Officers
discovered evidence of a shooting, including property damage. No one was harmed
in the shooting.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph police
continue to investigate a shooting at the Pleasant Heights Apartment complex,
now indicating juveniles might have been involved.The St. Joseph
Police Department reports officers responded to a shots fired call around 1:30
Monday morning in the 3200 block of South 36th Street. Officers
discovered evidence of a shooting, including property damage. No one was harmed
in the shooting.The number of
juveniles that might have been involved or their ages have not been released by
the St. Joseph Police Department.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ

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