The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce has announced a series of upcoming public forums designed to connect voters with local candidates ahead of the spring elections.

The series kicks off with a Mayoral Candidate Forum on Jan. 28, at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center. The event will be moderated by Kevin Waltman and is intended to provide a platform for candidates to discuss their platforms and visions for the city. The event takes place from 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. and breakfast will be served. 

For those unable to attend in person, the forum will be broadcast the following morning on 680 KFEQ.

Following the mayoral event, the Chamber will host additional sessions in March focused on candidates for the St. Joseph School District Board of Education and the City Council.

Due to limited seating, registration and a fee are required to attend the forums. The cost for Chamber members is $15 and $25 for non-members. The price includes the full breakfast.

Community members can secure their spot by contacting the Chamber at 816-232-4461 or visiting their <a href="https://saintjoseph.com/">website</a>.

The event is presented by Farmer's State Bank.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562339472284.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce has announced a series of upcoming public forums designed to connect voters with local candidates ahead of the spring elections.The series kicks off with a Mayoral Candidate Forum on Jan. 28, at the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center. The event will be moderated by Kevin Waltman and is intended to provide a platform for candidates to discuss their platforms and visions for the city. The event takes place from 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. and breakfast will be served. For those unable to attend in person, the forum will be broadcast the following morning on 680 KFEQ.Following the mayoral event, the Chamber will host additional sessions in March focused on candidates for the St. Joseph School District Board of Education and the City Council.Due to limited seating, registration and a fee are required to attend the forums. The cost for Chamber members is $15 and $25 for non-members. The price includes the full breakfast.Community members can secure their spot by contacting the Chamber at 816-232-4461 or visiting their <a href="https://saintjoseph.com/">website</a>.The event is presented by Farmer's State Bank.

St. Joseph Chamber to host mayoral forum Jan. 28

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/7dUjVI6FON0AOqY4kfDdjh?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

Work is coming along on the Buchanan County Fairgrounds, but even while work is happening, so are events within the old East Buchanan Middle School 

Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Scott Nelson says even while construction on the arena is happening, things are happening in the school building that is nos turned into an event space 

"We’re not waiting for the first cow to come in with a 4H judge to judge it and things like that, that’s not our go time, that can’t happen until the arena is done,” Nelson says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “But prior to that, the event space we had a concert, and we have a wedding reception, things like that.” 

Nelson says even a summer camp has asked to utilize the space for activities for its kids within the space around the facility.  

This past Saturday the event space within the old middle school in Easton got its first trial run with a concert held by Bea and the Boys 

“They were hoping to get 80 people out there, and we had no idea but we had the place set up, we had a bunch of volunteers and it wasn’t just volunteers from the school board, there were volunteers from the community that came out and helped that are behind this project as an idea in and of itself,” Nelson explains.  “And they ended up with I think 170 people out there that night, and it was full and they were having a good time.” 

Nelson says the event was well attended by community members, and he heard mass support for the project. 

There are other events that are already scheduled even during construction of the arena. You can visit the Buchanan County Fairgrounds Facebook page for more information. 

Despite the cold winter weather, construction is continuing at the Buchanan County Fairgrounds, and things are still on track.  

Nelson says now with the beams of the building up and going 

“They have the walls and insulation up at least on the west wall, probably on the south wall if not all of it, and they’ve continued on around,” Nelson says.  “I’m going to say the whole wall up on the south is probably up, the whole wall on the west is up and insulated.” 

Nelson says once the walls are up and the exterior work is completed the roof should be the next step to go on, keeping them on track to be done with that phase this year.  

Nelson says once the first phase is complete, then it is on to work on getting the correct dirt inside the arena as well as pens and water to make it functional for showing animals. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769026807668.jpeg" alt="Progress is continuing on the Buchanan County Fairgrounds, but even as work goes, events are happening within the event center at the facility/ Photo courtesy of the Buchanan County Fairgrounds Facebook" />
 <figcaption>Progress is continuing on the Buchanan County Fairgrounds, but even as work goes, events are happening within the event center at the facility/ Photo courtesy of the Buchanan County Fairgrounds Facebook</figcaption>
 </figure>(By MATT PIKE)Work is coming along on the Buchanan County Fairgrounds, but even while work is happening, so are events within the old East Buchanan Middle School Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Scott Nelson says even while construction on the arena is happening, things are happening in the school building that is nos turned into an event space "We’re not waiting for the first cow to come in with a 4H judge to judge it and things like that, that’s not our go time, that can’t happen until the arena is done,” Nelson says on the KFEQmunnity show. “But prior to that, the event space we had a concert, and we have a wedding reception, things like that.” Nelson says even a summer camp has asked to utilize the space for activities for its kids within the space around the facility. This past Saturday the event space within the old middle school in Easton got its first trial run with a concert held by Bea and the Boys “They were hoping to get 80 people out there, and we had no idea but we had the place set up, we had a bunch of volunteers and it wasn’t just volunteers from the school board, there were volunteers from the community that came out and helped that are behind this project as an idea in and of itself,” Nelson explains. “And they ended up with I think 170 people out there that night, and it was full and they were having a good time.” Nelson says the event was well attended by community members, and he heard mass support for the project. There are other events that are already scheduled even during construction of the arena. You can visit the Buchanan County Fairgrounds Facebook page for more information. Despite the cold winter weather, construction is continuing at the Buchanan County Fairgrounds, and things are still on track. Nelson says now with the beams of the building up and going “They have the walls and insulation up at least on the west wall, probably on the south wall if not all of it, and they’ve continued on around,” Nelson says. “I’m going to say the whole wall up on the south is probably up, the whole wall on the west is up and insulated.” Nelson says once the walls are up and the exterior work is completed the roof should be the next step to go on, keeping them on track to be done with that phase this year. Nelson says once the first phase is complete, then it is on to work on getting the correct dirt inside the arena as well as pens and water to make it functional for showing animals. (You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Events taking place at Buchanan County Fairgrounds as work continues

By RYAN SKAITH<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/5kummgivEumBvCBaJMP29i?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 News 01/22/2026

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Wednesday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Chevy Cruz driven by a 17-year-old Bethany girl was northbound on MO 146 six miles southeast of Bethany. The driver lost control of the car on a curve.&nbsp; The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road, traveled through a yard and struck a mailbox.

Harrison County EMS transported the teen to Harrison County Community Hospital.&nbsp; She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Wednesday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Chevy Cruz driven by a 17-year-old Bethany girl was northbound on MO 146 six miles southeast of Bethany. The driver lost control of the car on a curve.&nbsp; The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road, traveled through a yard and struck a mailbox.Harrison County EMS transported the teen to Harrison County Community Hospital.&nbsp; She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri teen hospitalized after car strikes mailbox

ATCHISON COUNTY—A suspect wanted following an investigation by police and the KBI in June is in custody facing additional allegaions.

Shortly before 7p.m. on Tuesday an officer on patrol observed a vehicle being driven by Robert ‘Jamie’ Ford who the officer knew was wanted on outstanding warrants, according to Atchison Police Chef Mike Wilson.

The officer stopped the vehicle in the 600 block North 11th Street in Atchison where Ford was taken into custody on two District Court warrants and new traffic charges. 

He was subsequently found to be in possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia. The District Court warrant charging him with possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia is in connection to a June 2025 Atchison Police/Kansas Bureau of Investigation joint investigation. Ford was taken to the County Jail.

He is being held on requested charges that include possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, no vehicle insurance, expired tag, transporting an open container and District Court warrants charging him with possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, and probation violation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769010357891.png" alt="Ford photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Ford photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—A suspect wanted following an investigation by police and the KBI in June is in custody facing additional allegaions.Shortly before 7p.m. on Tuesday an officer on patrol observed a vehicle being driven by Robert ‘Jamie’ Ford who the officer knew was wanted on outstanding warrants, according to Atchison Police Chef Mike Wilson.The officer stopped the vehicle in the 600 block North 11th Street in Atchison where Ford was taken into custody on two District Court warrants and new traffic charges. He was subsequently found to be in possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia. The District Court warrant charging him with possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia is in connection to a June 2025 Atchison Police/Kansas Bureau of Investigation joint investigation. Ford was taken to the County Jail.He is being held on requested charges that include possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, no vehicle insurance, expired tag, transporting an open container and District Court warrants charging him with possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, and probation violation.

Wanted Kansas suspect was in possession of cocaine

Citizens, business leaders, educators, and government officials from Northwest Missouri are set to gather in Jefferson City February&nbsp; 3rd &amp; 4th for Great Northwest Day, an annual event aiming to showcase the region’s strengths and advocating for its legislative priorities.

The event is designed to educate state lawmakers about the critical issues facing the Northwest region and promote the region as a vital contributor to the Show-Me State’s economic and community success.

Participants will be recognized on the House and Senate floors before taking part in panel discussions focused on key regional priorities. A reception will allow attendees to connect with legislators, and state department leaders. It will also feature the presentation of the Northwest Missouri Citizen of the Year award.

The Great Northwest Priorities Committee has identified six focus areas for the upcoming legislative session: expanding access to rural health care, increasing child care availability, investing in higher education, supporting K–12 education, expanding workforce housing, and ensuring sustainable tax reform.

Registration is $80 through this Tuesday, January 27. Organizers are anticipating participation to exceed 250 attendees.

For additional details, visit <a href="http://greatnorthwestday.com">greatnorthwestday.com</a>.

(By JIM FARIS)Citizens, business leaders, educators, and government officials from Northwest Missouri are set to gather in Jefferson City February&nbsp; 3rd &amp; 4th for Great Northwest Day, an annual event aiming to showcase the region’s strengths and advocating for its legislative priorities.The event is designed to educate state lawmakers about the critical issues facing the Northwest region and promote the region as a vital contributor to the Show-Me State’s economic and community success.Participants will be recognized on the House and Senate floors before taking part in panel discussions focused on key regional priorities. A reception will allow attendees to connect with legislators, and state department leaders. It will also feature the presentation of the Northwest Missouri Citizen of the Year award.The Great Northwest Priorities Committee has identified six focus areas for the upcoming legislative session: expanding access to rural health care, increasing child care availability, investing in higher education, supporting K–12 education, expanding workforce housing, and ensuring sustainable tax reform.Registration is $80 through this Tuesday, January 27. Organizers are anticipating participation to exceed 250 attendees.For additional details, visit <a href="http://greatnorthwestday.com">greatnorthwestday.com</a>.

Great Northwest Day returns February 3 & 4

Celebrate Valentine's Day with a special concert at the historic Missouri Theatre as acclaimed pianist Barron Ryan will put on an evening of romance and elegance, performing love songs from throughout the years.&nbsp;

Ryan is a world-renowned pianist known for his ability to blend classical mastery with jazz and contemporary influences.&nbsp; He has performed across the United States and internationally.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Barron Ryan is an incredible performer, and we are very fortunate to have him perform here,” Executive Director of the Performing Arts Association, Paul Storiale, says in a news release. “..and there’s no better place to spend Valentine’s Day than the Missouri Theatre, where patrons have been making date-night memories for almost a century.”

The night begins with a complimentary wine tasting held beforehand on the mezzanine level of the theatre, setting the perfect tone for this unforgettable Valentine’s celebration. Whether it’s a romantic date night or a sophisticated GALentine’s evening out, this experience is designed to delight.

&nbsp;Ryan takes the stage at the historic Missouri Theatre on Saturday, February 14 at 7:30 PM.&nbsp; For tickets and more information, visit <a href="http://TicketsToTheShow.com">TicketsToTheShow.com</a> or call 816-279-1225

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769024018811.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>(By MATT PIKE)Celebrate Valentine's Day with a special concert at the historic Missouri Theatre as acclaimed pianist Barron Ryan will put on an evening of romance and elegance, performing love songs from throughout the years.&nbsp;Ryan is a world-renowned pianist known for his ability to blend classical mastery with jazz and contemporary influences.&nbsp; He has performed across the United States and internationally.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Barron Ryan is an incredible performer, and we are very fortunate to have him perform here,” Executive Director of the Performing Arts Association, Paul Storiale, says in a news release. “..and there’s no better place to spend Valentine’s Day than the Missouri Theatre, where patrons have been making date-night memories for almost a century.”The night begins with a complimentary wine tasting held beforehand on the mezzanine level of the theatre, setting the perfect tone for this unforgettable Valentine’s celebration. Whether it’s a romantic date night or a sophisticated GALentine’s evening out, this experience is designed to delight.&nbsp;Ryan takes the stage at the historic Missouri Theatre on Saturday, February 14 at 7:30 PM.&nbsp; For tickets and more information, visit <a href="http://TicketsToTheShow.com">TicketsToTheShow.com</a> or call 816-279-1225(You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

World renowned pianist Barron Ryan performing Valentines concert at Missouri Theatre

The City of St. Joseph is centralizing its efforts to improve neighborhood safety by moving property code enforcement into the St. Joseph Police Department.

The realignment is a direct response to a community survey conducted last year, in which residents identified neighborhood appearance and public safety as top priorities. City officials said the move aims to improve coordination and efficiency by addressing the link between property blight and crime.

“This realignment allows us to focus more holistically on quality-of-life issues,” Police Chief Paul Luster said. “Code officers will be looking beyond individual properties to address broader neighborhood concerns, helping us create cleaner, safer, and more welcoming areas for everyone.”

The Property Maintenance Division, formerly housed within the Planning and Community Development Department, consists of four code enforcement officers, a manager, and a clerk. The team is responsible for identifying violations on private property, including overgrown weeds, trash, diseased trees, and stagnant water.

As part of the transition, the division has moved from City Hall to the Law Enforcement Center at 501 Faraon St. Residents seeking in-person assistance—including right-of-entry requests for yellow-tagged structures or filing code complaints—should now visit the police department lobby.

The transition also includes a visual rebranding. Code enforcement officers will operate newly branded vehicles and wear uniforms designed to increase visibility during neighborhood patrols. To improve transparency, the police department will share enforcement statistics and "before-and-after" cleanup highlights on its social media channels.

While the police department now handles general property maintenance, some responsibilities remain with the Planning and Community Development Department. That office will continue to manage substandard housing, dangerous buildings, and structures "red-tagged" due to fire, weather, or vehicle damage.

Residents can contact the code enforcement clerk at 816-271-4620 for questions or to speak with an inspector.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674146802897.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Police Department" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>(By RYAN SKAITH)The City of St. Joseph is centralizing its efforts to improve neighborhood safety by moving property code enforcement into the St. Joseph Police Department.The realignment is a direct response to a community survey conducted last year, in which residents identified neighborhood appearance and public safety as top priorities. City officials said the move aims to improve coordination and efficiency by addressing the link between property blight and crime.“This realignment allows us to focus more holistically on quality-of-life issues,” Police Chief Paul Luster said. “Code officers will be looking beyond individual properties to address broader neighborhood concerns, helping us create cleaner, safer, and more welcoming areas for everyone.”The Property Maintenance Division, formerly housed within the Planning and Community Development Department, consists of four code enforcement officers, a manager, and a clerk. The team is responsible for identifying violations on private property, including overgrown weeds, trash, diseased trees, and stagnant water.As part of the transition, the division has moved from City Hall to the Law Enforcement Center at 501 Faraon St. Residents seeking in-person assistance—including right-of-entry requests for yellow-tagged structures or filing code complaints—should now visit the police department lobby.The transition also includes a visual rebranding. Code enforcement officers will operate newly branded vehicles and wear uniforms designed to increase visibility during neighborhood patrols. To improve transparency, the police department will share enforcement statistics and "before-and-after" cleanup highlights on its social media channels.While the police department now handles general property maintenance, some responsibilities remain with the Planning and Community Development Department. That office will continue to manage substandard housing, dangerous buildings, and structures "red-tagged" due to fire, weather, or vehicle damage.Residents can contact the code enforcement clerk at 816-271-4620 for questions or to speak with an inspector.

St. Joseph Police take over property code enforcement

ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Tuesday in Atchison.

A 2017 Dodge Ram pickup&nbsp; driven by Matthew Carr, 40, Atchison, was northbound on 10th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

The pickup turned west onto U.S.59, crossed the median and left the roadway on the south side of U.S.59.&nbsp; The vehicle continued southbound down an embankment, across a parking lot and then struck the north side of Hotel Eastin,&nbsp;401 S 10th Street.&nbsp;

The hotel room that was struck was unoccupied. 

EMS transported Matthew Carr, the only occupant in the vehicle, to Amberwell Hospital for examination. It is believed that the driver suffered some type of medical episode prior to the accident, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769009819295.jpeg" alt="Photo Atchison Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Atchison Police</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Tuesday in Atchison.A 2017 Dodge Ram pickup&nbsp; driven by Matthew Carr, 40, Atchison, was northbound on 10th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.The pickup turned west onto U.S.59, crossed the median and left the roadway on the south side of U.S.59.&nbsp; The vehicle continued southbound down an embankment, across a parking lot and then struck the north side of Hotel Eastin,&nbsp;401 S 10th Street.&nbsp;The hotel room that was struck was unoccupied. EMS transported Matthew Carr, the only occupant in the vehicle, to Amberwell Hospital for examination. It is believed that the driver suffered some type of medical episode prior to the accident, according to Wilson.

Kansas man injured after pickup crash into hotel room

The Missouri Department of Transportation and Evergy will host a public meeting today to discuss a planned intersection improvement project on U.S. Route 71 at 340th Street, south of Maryville.

The meeting is scheduled for Jan. 21, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Maryville Public Safety Training Room, located at 101 N. Vine St. The event will follow an open-house format with no formal presentation, allowing residents to view project plans and speak directly with representatives from MoDOT and Evergy.

The proposed upgrades are designed to accommodate a projected increase in traffic following the construction of a new natural gas plant in the area. MoDOT officials recommend replacing the existing crossover at 340th Street with J-turns to improve traffic flow and reduce the risk of high-speed collisions.

Under the J-turn design, motorists on side roads will no longer cross multiple lanes of fast-moving traffic to turn left or travel straight. Instead, drivers will turn right in the direction of traffic, merge into the passing lane, and use a dedicated lane to make a U-turn into the opposite direction of travel.

The project is currently scheduled to be made available for contractor bids during MoDOT’s April 2026 letting.

Community members are encouraged to attend the meeting to share concerns or submit comments. Those unable to speak with project leaders directly will have the opportunity to provide feedback via written comment forms.

Nodaway U.S. Route 71 Intersection Improvement

Missouri Department of Transportation

All comments must be postmarked by Feb. 4, 2026.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1566589245645.jpeg" alt="MoDOT Northwest district" />
 <figcaption>MoDOT Northwest district</figcaption>
 </figure>(By RYAN SKAITH)The Missouri Department of Transportation and Evergy will host a public meeting today to discuss a planned intersection improvement project on U.S. Route 71 at 340th Street, south of Maryville.The meeting is scheduled for Jan. 21, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Maryville Public Safety Training Room, located at 101 N. Vine St. The event will follow an open-house format with no formal presentation, allowing residents to view project plans and speak directly with representatives from MoDOT and Evergy.The proposed upgrades are designed to accommodate a projected increase in traffic following the construction of a new natural gas plant in the area. MoDOT officials recommend replacing the existing crossover at 340th Street with J-turns to improve traffic flow and reduce the risk of high-speed collisions.Under the J-turn design, motorists on side roads will no longer cross multiple lanes of fast-moving traffic to turn left or travel straight. Instead, drivers will turn right in the direction of traffic, merge into the passing lane, and use a dedicated lane to make a U-turn into the opposite direction of travel.The project is currently scheduled to be made available for contractor bids during MoDOT’s April 2026 letting.Community members are encouraged to attend the meeting to share concerns or submit comments. Those unable to speak with project leaders directly will have the opportunity to provide feedback via written comment forms.You can also mail your comments to:Nodaway U.S. Route 71 Intersection ImprovementMissouri Department of Transportation3602 North Belt HighwaySt. Joseph, MO 64506All comments must be postmarked by Feb. 4, 2026.

MoDOT and Evergy to host public meeting for U.S. 71 intersection upgrades south of Maryville today

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/3GhNa0iqix8ZTUqPM5iXr2?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Savannah will not be getting a new aquatics facility after all.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Instead, after several discussions with professionals, the Andrew County Aquatics Initiative has decided to keep and renovate the current pool facility in Savannah.&nbsp;&nbsp;

President Diane Gould says after reviewing the pool with the professionals, it showed the&nbsp;facility&nbsp;was in&nbsp;good shape, but needed some work&nbsp;

“They came to the conclusion that we could have a really nice facility that, to anyone who didn’t know, will appear to be and will function like&nbsp;a&nbsp;brand-new&nbsp;facility for under $1 million,” Gould tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post&nbsp;

Gould says a new facility, that was&nbsp;essentially the&nbsp;same as what already existed in Savannah, would have cost around&nbsp;$6 million&nbsp;to build.&nbsp;

The fundraising goal for the project is still short by around&nbsp;$165,000.&nbsp; A trivia night will be held on March 21st, which is also when the Andrew County Aquatics Initiative hopes to hit the goal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gould says today will begin the first steps towards reopening the pool as they get ready for renovations at the facility.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“There is a company coming out to do what is called a pressure test on the pool to make sure that&nbsp;we’re&nbsp;leak tight,&nbsp;we’ve&nbsp;done a few things to get prepared for that,&nbsp;change some&nbsp;valves and&nbsp;fixed a few things,” Gould explains&nbsp;

Gould says once that test gets passed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“As long as we get an A+ on&nbsp;that,&nbsp;we will be pushing forward and probably, hopefully breaking ground in a few weeks,” Gould says.&nbsp;

Gould says the hope is to be able to have the Savannah Pool open by the Memorial Day holiday.&nbsp;

Gould says the way things have fallen into place with this project have been&nbsp;really exciting&nbsp;

“I got a call from a company who renovates old water slides &nbsp;just a couple days ago, and they were interested in coming, and it’s like things are just falling into place in such a way that I’m like&nbsp;man I feel like God’s just shining down on this project and&nbsp;its&nbsp;opening all the doors and making the right decisions really obvious,” Gould says.&nbsp;

(You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746644589613.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>(By MATT PIKE)Savannah will not be getting a new aquatics facility after all.&nbsp;&nbsp;Instead, after several discussions with professionals, the Andrew County Aquatics Initiative has decided to keep and renovate the current pool facility in Savannah.&nbsp;&nbsp;President Diane Gould says after reviewing the pool with the professionals, it showed the&nbsp;facility&nbsp;was in&nbsp;good shape, but needed some work&nbsp;“They came to the conclusion that we could have a really nice facility that, to anyone who didn’t know, will appear to be and will function like&nbsp;a&nbsp;brand-new&nbsp;facility for under $1 million,” Gould tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Gould says a new facility, that was&nbsp;essentially the&nbsp;same as what already existed in Savannah, would have cost around&nbsp;$6 million&nbsp;to build.&nbsp;The fundraising goal for the project is still short by around&nbsp;$165,000.&nbsp; A trivia night will be held on March 21st, which is also when the Andrew County Aquatics Initiative hopes to hit the goal.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gould says today will begin the first steps towards reopening the pool as they get ready for renovations at the facility.&nbsp;&nbsp;“There is a company coming out to do what is called a pressure test on the pool to make sure that&nbsp;we’re&nbsp;leak tight,&nbsp;we’ve&nbsp;done a few things to get prepared for that,&nbsp;change some&nbsp;valves and&nbsp;fixed a few things,” Gould explains&nbsp;Gould says once that test gets passed.&nbsp;&nbsp;“As long as we get an A+ on&nbsp;that,&nbsp;we will be pushing forward and probably, hopefully breaking ground in a few weeks,” Gould says.&nbsp;Gould says the hope is to be able to have the Savannah Pool open by the Memorial Day holiday.&nbsp;Gould says the way things have fallen into place with this project have been&nbsp;really exciting&nbsp;“I got a call from a company who renovates old water slides &nbsp;just a couple days ago, and they were interested in coming, and it’s like things are just falling into place in such a way that I’m like&nbsp;man I feel like God’s just shining down on this project and&nbsp;its&nbsp;opening all the doors and making the right decisions really obvious,” Gould says.&nbsp;(You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.)

Savannah pool hopes to be open by Memorial Day following renovations 

By RYAN SKAITH<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/47FykbkItZPvr1vK9pUSvc?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 News 01/21/2026

A long-term narcotics investigation spanning two counties resulted in the seizure of drugs and firearms and the arrest of two individuals last week, according to the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation, conducted in cooperation with the Northwest Missouri Drug Task Force, began in 2025 following a traffic stop. That initial stop led to a search warrant at a rural Nodaway County residence, where authorities seized approximately one ounce of methamphetamine and packaging materials.

Last week, deputies executed a follow-up search warrant in Clearmont, MO. During the search, officers recovered additional controlled substances, multiple firearms, and packaging material consistent with the distribution of narcotics.

A suspect, identified by authorities as a convicted felon, was taken into custody and is being held on a $100,000 bond. The individual faces several charges, including distribution of a controlled substance in a protected location, unlawful possession of a firearm, and driving while revoked or suspended.

The Clearmont investigation provided leads that prompted a second search warrant in neighboring Atchison County. That operation resulted in the arrest of a second subject.

The second individual faces charges of distribution of a controlled substance in a protected location, possession of a controlled substance, tampering with physical evidence, and resisting arrest for a felony.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768993510867.jpeg" alt="Photo Nodaway Co Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Nodaway Co Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>A long-term narcotics investigation spanning two counties resulted in the seizure of drugs and firearms and the arrest of two individuals last week, according to the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office.The investigation, conducted in cooperation with the Northwest Missouri Drug Task Force, began in 2025 following a traffic stop. That initial stop led to a search warrant at a rural Nodaway County residence, where authorities seized approximately one ounce of methamphetamine and packaging materials.Last week, deputies executed a follow-up search warrant in Clearmont, MO. During the search, officers recovered additional controlled substances, multiple firearms, and packaging material consistent with the distribution of narcotics.A suspect, identified by authorities as a convicted felon, was taken into custody and is being held on a $100,000 bond. The individual faces several charges, including distribution of a controlled substance in a protected location, unlawful possession of a firearm, and driving while revoked or suspended.The Clearmont investigation provided leads that prompted a second search warrant in neighboring Atchison County. That operation resulted in the arrest of a second subject.The second individual faces charges of distribution of a controlled substance in a protected location, possession of a controlled substance, tampering with physical evidence, and resisting arrest for a felony.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768993552673.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Nodaway Co Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Nodaway Co Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>

Nodaway County Sheriff seizes drugs and weapons; two arrested

NODAWAY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before noon Tuesday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Toyota Tundra driven by a 68-year-old Fridley, Minnesota man was southbound on Interstate 35 seven miles north of Winston. The driver had a medial emergency. The pickup traveled off the west side of the road, struck a culvert, a fence and came to rest.

Daviess County Ambulance transported the driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; NTA Ambulance transported a 77-year-old female passenger to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

NODAWAY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before noon Tuesday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Toyota Tundra driven by a 68-year-old Fridley, Minnesota man was southbound on Interstate 35 seven miles north of Winston. The driver had a medial emergency. The pickup traveled off the west side of the road, struck a culvert, a fence and came to rest.Daviess County Ambulance transported the driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; NTA Ambulance transported a 77-year-old female passenger to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Two hospitalized after pickup strikes a fence in Nodaway County

Policies aim to get ahead of Legislature’s debate about weakening tenure rights

By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">Tim Carpenter</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents ordered state public universities to implement faculty workload and tenure review policies that will bring underperforming professors to remediation, with termination a potential consequence for failure to address deficiencies.

The mandate applied to thousands of faculty employed at Kansas State University, the University of Kansas, Pittsburg State University, Fort Hays State University, Emporia State University and Wichita State University. Expectations for nontenure, tenure-track and tenured faculty wouldn’t be identical from university to university, but all would be assigned annual course instructional loads and undergo yearly reviews in terms of teaching, research and public service.

Faculty at the state’s three research-oriented universities — KU, K-State and WSU — would be expected to teach six to nine credit hours per semester. Annual reviews of these faculty would be based on teaching at 40% to 55% of the workload. Research obligations would range from 35% to 45% of the total. Public service would be 5% to 20% of the job.

Faculty at the three regional universities — PSU, ESU and FHSU — would be assigned 12 credit hours of instructional course work each semester. The faculty evaluation breakdown: teaching, 60% to 75%; research, 15% to 30%; and public service, 5% to 20%.

Tenured university faculty in the Board of Regents system would undergo performance assessments by a campus committee every five years. Those determined to be less than satisfactory would be placed on self-improvement plans. If a faculty member earned a second unsatisfactory annual review, the policy said, the individual would be subject to dismissal, reassignment or other personnel action.

Rusty Monhollon, vice president of academic affairs for the Board of Regents, said the post-tenure and workload policies would help administrators identify faculty falling short of standards and those exceeding those metrics. The goal was to make evaluation of faculty less subjective and to address consternation about the rigor of decisions about faculty appointments, he said.

He expected few university faculty to fail to abide by new productivity standards because the “work they do is good.”

“These are very important policies that are impactful. We want to make sure we get it right,” said Alysia Johnston, a member of the Board of Regents.

Johnston, a former president of Fort Scott Community College, said the final version of policies approved by the Board of Regents left the analysis of tenure review cases to university administrators because the state board didn’t have the expertise to make scholarly judgments. She said the Board of Regents would consider tenure appeals based on claims that due process rights were violated by university administrators.

The Board of Regents voted unanimously at its January meeting to require the six universities to begin documenting and reporting faculty performance data that would be shared with legislators and others to enhance transparency and accountability in higher education.

University reporting would include statistics on student credit hours produced, percentage of credit hours by full-time faculty, bachelor’s degrees awarded, student retention, faculty scholarship and faculty research funding. Information about the number of people granted and denied tenure and the number of faculty who left each university must be documented.

Board of Regents member Matt Crocker, a Manhattan businessman, said he appreciated that the development of a systemwide faculty review policy involved considerable effort by the Board of Regents. He said there was an expectation among members of the Kansas Legislature that faculty workload policies would be rigorous. In the past two years, members of the Legislature raised the possibility of modifying tenure at the state universities.

“The question I seem to get all the time, especially here in Topeka, is making sure I’m a good steward for the state’s funding for higher education,” he said.

Under the Board of Regents policy, each university would craft faculty workload expectations that were “equitable, fair and balanced, and aligned with the unique needs of each department and the whole institution.” While all faculty would be assigned teaching loads, the policy said, exceptions would be permitted for clinical or research faculty, librarians and other personnel in noninstructional roles.

The new systemwide policy was developed by Board of Regents’ staff, university administrators and faculty as well as state politicians. At least four drafts were circulated for review and comment during the past seven months.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768943639729.png" alt=" Kansas Board of Regents member Alysia Johnston, who leads the board’s academic affairs committee, endorses faculty workload and post-tenure review policies applicable at the six public universities in the state system. This image of Johnston is of her at a Board of Regents meeting in 2024 in Manhattan. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Board of Regents member Alysia Johnston, who leads the board’s academic affairs committee, endorses faculty workload and post-tenure review policies applicable at the six public universities in the state system. This image of Johnston is of her at a Board of Regents meeting in 2024 in Manhattan. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Policies aim to get ahead of Legislature’s debate about weakening tenure rights</h2>By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">Tim Carpenter</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents ordered state public universities to implement faculty workload and tenure review policies that will bring underperforming professors to remediation, with termination a potential consequence for failure to address deficiencies.The mandate applied to thousands of faculty employed at Kansas State University, the University of Kansas, Pittsburg State University, Fort Hays State University, Emporia State University and Wichita State University. Expectations for nontenure, tenure-track and tenured faculty wouldn’t be identical from university to university, but all would be assigned annual course instructional loads and undergo yearly reviews in terms of teaching, research and public service.Faculty at the state’s three research-oriented universities — KU, K-State and WSU — would be expected to teach six to nine credit hours per semester. Annual reviews of these faculty would be based on teaching at 40% to 55% of the workload. Research obligations would range from 35% to 45% of the total. Public service would be 5% to 20% of the job.Faculty at the three regional universities — PSU, ESU and FHSU — would be assigned 12 credit hours of instructional course work each semester. The faculty evaluation breakdown: teaching, 60% to 75%; research, 15% to 30%; and public service, 5% to 20%.Tenured university faculty in the Board of Regents system would undergo performance assessments by a campus committee every five years. Those determined to be less than satisfactory would be placed on self-improvement plans. If a faculty member earned a second unsatisfactory annual review, the policy said, the individual would be subject to dismissal, reassignment or other personnel action.Rusty Monhollon, vice president of academic affairs for the Board of Regents, said the post-tenure and workload policies would help administrators identify faculty falling short of standards and those exceeding those metrics. The goal was to make evaluation of faculty less subjective and to address consternation about the rigor of decisions about faculty appointments, he said.He expected few university faculty to fail to abide by new productivity standards because the “work they do is good.”“These are very important policies that are impactful. We want to make sure we get it right,” said Alysia Johnston, a member of the Board of Regents.Johnston, a former president of Fort Scott Community College, said the final version of policies approved by the Board of Regents left the analysis of tenure review cases to university administrators because the state board didn’t have the expertise to make scholarly judgments. She said the Board of Regents would consider tenure appeals based on claims that due process rights were violated by university administrators.The Board of Regents voted unanimously at its January meeting to require the six universities to begin documenting and reporting faculty performance data that would be shared with legislators and others to enhance transparency and accountability in higher education.University reporting would include statistics on student credit hours produced, percentage of credit hours by full-time faculty, bachelor’s degrees awarded, student retention, faculty scholarship and faculty research funding. Information about the number of people granted and denied tenure and the number of faculty who left each university must be documented.Board of Regents member Matt Crocker, a Manhattan businessman, said he appreciated that the development of a systemwide faculty review policy involved considerable effort by the Board of Regents. He said there was an expectation among members of the Kansas Legislature that faculty workload policies would be rigorous. In the past two years, members of the Legislature raised the possibility of modifying tenure at the state universities.“The question I seem to get all the time, especially here in Topeka, is making sure I’m a good steward for the state’s funding for higher education,” he said.Under the Board of Regents policy, each university would craft faculty workload expectations that were “equitable, fair and balanced, and aligned with the unique needs of each department and the whole institution.” While all faculty would be assigned teaching loads, the policy said, exceptions would be permitted for clinical or research faculty, librarians and other personnel in noninstructional roles.The new systemwide policy was developed by Board of Regents’ staff, university administrators and faculty as well as state politicians. At least four drafts were circulated for review and comment during the past seven months.

Kansas adopts faculty workload, post-tenure review system for public universities

The Mosaic Life Care Foundation will host a free community night at the inspireU Children’s Discovery Center Jan. 22, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The event is the latest in a series of four free nights made possible by a gift from the Leah Spratt Charitable Trust. Foundation officials credited committee members Rhonda Rochambeau, Rick Rochambeau and Rene Rochambeau McCrary for their commitment to providing local families access to the facility.

Located at 521 Felix St. in downtown St. Joseph, the center focuses on physical health, mental wellness and educational enrichment. The facility is designed for children from birth to age 10 and their families.

The discovery center features more than 20 core exhibits, including a rooftop exploratorium and various interactive play areas. Mosaic Life Care Foundation representatives said the gift aims to encourage a fun evening of play and learning for the entire community.

For more information about the first community night, <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f01407ae-4f75-4909-85d7-e5d613a8b251">visit here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729116203362.jpeg" alt="Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>(By RYAN SKAITH)The Mosaic Life Care Foundation will host a free community night at the inspireU Children’s Discovery Center Jan. 22, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.The event is the latest in a series of four free nights made possible by a gift from the Leah Spratt Charitable Trust. Foundation officials credited committee members Rhonda Rochambeau, Rick Rochambeau and Rene Rochambeau McCrary for their commitment to providing local families access to the facility.Located at 521 Felix St. in downtown St. Joseph, the center focuses on physical health, mental wellness and educational enrichment. The facility is designed for children from birth to age 10 and their families.The discovery center features more than 20 core exhibits, including a rooftop exploratorium and various interactive play areas. Mosaic Life Care Foundation representatives said the gift aims to encourage a fun evening of play and learning for the entire community.For more information about the first community night, <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f01407ae-4f75-4909-85d7-e5d613a8b251">visit here</a>.

Free family night scheduled for Thursday at inspireU in St. Joseph

It has been a relatively mild winter thus far, but temperatures are expected to take a major dive by this weekend throughout the Midland Empire.

Meteorologist Dan Holiday says extreme cold air could reach the area by Thursday. "There is a significant arctic air mass coming down from Canada and we'll really start to feel the effects of that Thursday night with lows forecast anywhere from zero to 5 above."

While it will be bitterly cold, Holiday says snow chances are light for northern Missouri. "There are low-end snow chances for Friday and Saturday. Most of the heavier snowfall should be south of us, but its still too early to tell for sure."

With such low temperatures, Holiday says to keep an extra eye on your pets. "If you have outdoor pets or even livestock, its going to be really important to watch them carefully from Thursday through the remainder of the weekend because temperatures will be frigid combined with gusty winds."

Friday's high is forecast between 10 and 15 degrees with a low of negative 2. Saturday will be in the single digits with a 30% chance of snow.

Holiday emphasizes that while northern Missouri may not get as much precipitation, motorists should stay cautious as weather conditions can change quickly.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol recommends packing extra blankets and pillows in case you become stranded in your vehicle. Drivers can also call Star 55 to be connected with the nearest Patrol headquarters.

The area will see a slight warm-up early next week with temperatures in the low to mid 30s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768927332353.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>(By RYAN SKAITH)It has been a relatively mild winter thus far, but temperatures are expected to take a major dive by this weekend throughout the Midland Empire.Meteorologist Dan Holiday says extreme cold air could reach the area by Thursday. "There is a significant arctic air mass coming down from Canada and we'll really start to feel the effects of that Thursday night with lows forecast anywhere from zero to 5 above."While it will be bitterly cold, Holiday says snow chances are light for northern Missouri. "There are low-end snow chances for Friday and Saturday. Most of the heavier snowfall should be south of us, but its still too early to tell for sure."With such low temperatures, Holiday says to keep an extra eye on your pets. "If you have outdoor pets or even livestock, its going to be really important to watch them carefully from Thursday through the remainder of the weekend because temperatures will be frigid combined with gusty winds."Friday's high is forecast between 10 and 15 degrees with a low of negative 2. Saturday will be in the single digits with a 30% chance of snow.Holiday emphasizes that while northern Missouri may not get as much precipitation, motorists should stay cautious as weather conditions can change quickly.The Missouri State Highway Patrol recommends packing extra blankets and pillows in case you become stranded in your vehicle. Drivers can also call Star 55 to be connected with the nearest Patrol headquarters.The area will see a slight warm-up early next week with temperatures in the low to mid 30s.

Frigid temps expected this weekend in the Midland Empire

A new year is bringing new opportunities in some new realms, as a national study has shown how affordable a place St. Joseph can be to live.  

City Manager Mike Schumacher says in talking to realtors they seem constantly amazed at what is available here in St. Joseph 

“They’re amazed at the price points compared to the KC metro as a whole,” Schumacher says on the KFEQmunnnity show.  “So, we need to tell our story on that.” 

Schumacher says people need to know about the opportunities they have in finding housing here 

“Where perhaps you can purchase a home considerably less, have the lowest taxes around the KC metro by far, including the county just to the south of us, significantly lower taxes,” Schumacher explains. 

Schumacher says the current median pricing in St. Joseph of $227,000 remains well below the national average, and rental costs remain accessible as well.  

The city has also gone to lengths to support growth in the community, creating a business liaison, that focuses solely on the needs of businesses and how the city can help.  

Schumacher says one of the biggest things they've heard from builders and business owners is speed to market 

"How soon can they get a house build and get it on the market and sold so they can move onto the next one and cut down on the overhead of construction loans, et cetera,” Schumacher says.  “So, waiting on the city for a week to come out and do something is money to them, so those are the gaps and opportunities.” 

Schumacher says while it wasn't a big problem before, he says the focus is about continuing to improve and make things easier for residents.  

Property taxes in St. Joseph remain the most affordable throughout the metro Kansas City area, making it easier to purchase or build a home in the area. 

Schumacher says at a time where finding housing is crucial for that workforce to live in 

"Folks don’t want to drive 45 minutes to work, they just don’t, it may sound great in the beginning but ultimately it’s like hey wait a minute I could live in St. Joseph and get an hour and half of my life back every day,” Schumacher says.  “But in order to do that, we need good, quality, affordable, safe housing.” 

Schumacher says before a project in partnership with the county at the North Shoppes to build a housing complex, there had not been a new apartment built in St. Joseph in 21 years.   

Schumacher also encourages people to look around, and to let people know that there is housing that can be found here, and in working with the city to build, they are working to make it painless and easy as possible. 

(By MATT PIKE)A new year is bringing new opportunities in some new realms, as a national study has shown how affordable a place St. Joseph can be to live. City Manager Mike Schumacher says in talking to realtors they seem constantly amazed at what is available here in St. Joseph “They’re amazed at the price points compared to the KC metro as a whole,” Schumacher says on the KFEQmunnnity show. “So, we need to tell our story on that.” Schumacher says people need to know about the opportunities they have in finding housing here “Where perhaps you can purchase a home considerably less, have the lowest taxes around the KC metro by far, including the county just to the south of us, significantly lower taxes,” Schumacher explains. Schumacher says the current median pricing in St. Joseph of $227,000 remains well below the national average, and rental costs remain accessible as well. The city has also gone to lengths to support growth in the community, creating a business liaison, that focuses solely on the needs of businesses and how the city can help. Schumacher says one of the biggest things they've heard from builders and business owners is speed to market "How soon can they get a house build and get it on the market and sold so they can move onto the next one and cut down on the overhead of construction loans, et cetera,” Schumacher says. “So, waiting on the city for a week to come out and do something is money to them, so those are the gaps and opportunities.” Schumacher says while it wasn't a big problem before, he says the focus is about continuing to improve and make things easier for residents. Property taxes in St. Joseph remain the most affordable throughout the metro Kansas City area, making it easier to purchase or build a home in the area. Schumacher says at a time where finding housing is crucial for that workforce to live in "Folks don’t want to drive 45 minutes to work, they just don’t, it may sound great in the beginning but ultimately it’s like hey wait a minute I could live in St. Joseph and get an hour and half of my life back every day,” Schumacher says. “But in order to do that, we need good, quality, affordable, safe housing.” Schumacher says before a project in partnership with the county at the North Shoppes to build a housing complex, there had not been a new apartment built in St. Joseph in 21 years. Schumacher also encourages people to look around, and to let people know that there is housing that can be found here, and in working with the city to build, they are working to make it painless and easy as possible. (You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

New year opens new realms and opportunities for St. Joseph

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/1W8vt6aIm9IrcFK4rpZ3yE?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 RYAN SKAITH<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/5acn9JtFV6b2IzFu5j3oFp?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 News 01/20/2026

A St. Joseph firefighter was hospitalized after responding to an industrial fire in the south end of the city early Monday morning.

 The St. Joseph Fire Department arrived at the scene around 2:30 a.m., with one firefighter later taken to the hospital. The firefighter's condition has not been disclosed. 

The fire led to the closure of the Stockyard Expressway and W. Florence Road for several hours as crews battled the blaze.

A St. Joseph firefighter was hospitalized after responding to an industrial fire in the south end of the city early Monday morning. The St. Joseph Fire Department arrived at the scene around 2:30 a.m., with one firefighter later taken to the hospital. The firefighter's condition has not been disclosed. The fire led to the closure of the Stockyard Expressway and W. Florence Road for several hours as crews battled the blaze.

St. Joseph firefighter hospitalized after Monday fire

Students are rolling back onto campus and the spring semester is about to begin at Missouri Western State University.   

Following the Martin Luther King Jr holiday today, MoWest Vice President of Enrollment Management Andy Otto says the spring semester starts tomorrow 

“Really excited to have students back on campus, both new and returning students,” Otto says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “So, it’s an exciting time for us as we move into the new calendar year and build momentum into the next academic year as well.” 

To prepare new students for the semester, MoWest held its spring orientation last week, which Otto says was well attended.   

Otts says the orientation gives new students the opportunity to meet people they will need to know during their time at MoWest 

“But also see the different resources that they have available to them,” Otto explains.  “One of the things we want to make sure is that students get a chance to see those resources, know where they’re at, and then have those contacts to be able to access those resources.” 

Students also had the chance to enroll for classes during the orientation Otto says 

“So, they got a chance to meet with advising staff and connect with people that will be influential throughout their time at MoWest,” Otto says. 

Otto says new students during the spring semester are primarily nontraditional students, such as transfers or people who came back to school.  

If you've been debating going back to school in the new year, Otto says it's not too late to enroll 

"We’re going to continue to work with students that maybe got a late jump on making tht decision to attend,” Otto says.  “And so, we can work with students up through the 26th (of January) at 4:30pm when our doors shut, and so my staff is well aware of that and so is the rest of campus, and so we will continue to work with students.” 

Otto says staff are aware of possible late enrollers, so even if you enroll late, teachers will work with you to make sure you are caught up as well on any material you missed in the first week. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767639408843.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western State University is gearing up for the spring semester which begins tomorrow/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western State University is gearing up for the spring semester which begins tomorrow/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>(By MATT PIKE)Students are rolling back onto campus and the spring semester is about to begin at Missouri Western State University. Following the Martin Luther King Jr holiday today, MoWest Vice President of Enrollment Management Andy Otto says the spring semester starts tomorrow “Really excited to have students back on campus, both new and returning students,” Otto says on the KFEQmunnity show. “So, it’s an exciting time for us as we move into the new calendar year and build momentum into the next academic year as well.” To prepare new students for the semester, MoWest held its spring orientation last week, which Otto says was well attended. Otts says the orientation gives new students the opportunity to meet people they will need to know during their time at MoWest “But also see the different resources that they have available to them,” Otto explains. “One of the things we want to make sure is that students get a chance to see those resources, know where they’re at, and then have those contacts to be able to access those resources.” Students also had the chance to enroll for classes during the orientation Otto says “So, they got a chance to meet with advising staff and connect with people that will be influential throughout their time at MoWest,” Otto says. Otto says new students during the spring semester are primarily nontraditional students, such as transfers or people who came back to school. If you've been debating going back to school in the new year, Otto says it's not too late to enroll "We’re going to continue to work with students that maybe got a late jump on making tht decision to attend,” Otto says. “And so, we can work with students up through the 26th (of January) at 4:30pm when our doors shut, and so my staff is well aware of that and so is the rest of campus, and so we will continue to work with students.” Otto says staff are aware of possible late enrollers, so even if you enroll late, teachers will work with you to make sure you are caught up as well on any material you missed in the first week. (You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Students back on campus as MoWest spring semester set to begin

If you know someone who is deserving of having their name enshrined forever into the the history of St. Joseph sports, now is the time to nominate them for the St. Joseph Missouri Area Sports Hall of Fame.&nbsp;

Nominations are now open for the 2026 class of the Hall of Fame.&nbsp; Nominees can range from athletes to coaches, to teams and athletic administrators, and all the way to the media and more To be eligible, nominees need to meet just one of three criteria

Nominations close in March for the class of 2026. The class of 2026 will be announced this summer, with the induction ceremony for the class held in August.&nbsp; If a nominee is not selected for the current year's class, their nomination stays active for five years.

You can find more details, as well as a nomination form, by clicking <a href="https://stjomosports.com/hall-of-fame/nominations/?fbclid=IwY2xjawPaISdleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFiSk52MWNDbTNPYzBuZ0s2c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi5_xynfnBSyc0cF7-SkxYOgZakPrI4uwbVBFqwYfL-BXshfVuAuzuex0kIl_aem_Z8Om_XQqf1C6heJO2sLqZQ">HERE</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648580960759.jpeg" alt="Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, announces the first ever St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame Class in June 2021. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, announces the first ever St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame Class in June 2021. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>(By MATT PIKE)If you know someone who is deserving of having their name enshrined forever into the the history of St. Joseph sports, now is the time to nominate them for the St. Joseph Missouri Area Sports Hall of Fame.&nbsp;Nominations are now open for the 2026 class of the Hall of Fame.&nbsp; Nominees can range from athletes to coaches, to teams and athletic administrators, and all the way to the media and more To be eligible, nominees need to meet just one of three criteria<ol>
 <li>Have been born in Buchanan County</li><li>Made their sports career or accomplished feats in Buchanan County</li><li>Contributing to sports currently in Buchanan County</li>
 </ol>Nominations close in March for the class of 2026. The class of 2026 will be announced this summer, with the induction ceremony for the class held in August.&nbsp; If a nominee is not selected for the current year's class, their nomination stays active for five years.You can find more details, as well as a nomination form, by clicking <a href="https://stjomosports.com/hall-of-fame/nominations/?fbclid=IwY2xjawPaISdleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFiSk52MWNDbTNPYzBuZ0s2c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHi5_xynfnBSyc0cF7-SkxYOgZakPrI4uwbVBFqwYfL-BXshfVuAuzuex0kIl_aem_Z8Om_XQqf1C6heJO2sLqZQ">HERE</a>.(You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

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