stjoelive.com | Stories for December 2007

New Year's resolutions for the celebrities

A few things for the stars to work on this year

Us common folk aren't the only ones who should be making New Year's resolutions. A few of our favorite celebrities could stand to look at what areas of their lives need improvement.

Sunday's prep sports 12-30-07

Saturday's Prep Sports December 29, 2007

Jets ready for return of ex-coach Edwards

HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. - Herm Edwards doesn't know what kind of reaction he's going to get from Jets fans on Sunday, and it really doesn't matter to him. "It's not about the reception I'm going to get," the Kansas City coach said Wednesday in a conference call. "It's more about playing a football game. That's the most important thing." But in a meaningless season finale between two disappointing teams, Edwards' first meeting with his former team since leaving almost two years ago will be the focal point, and certainly such a media-savvy person as Edwards realizes that. Even some of his former players are interested in his return, which is less than triumphant with the Chiefs (4-11) riding an eight-game skid.

Missouri's overlooked Temple set for possible finale

DALLAS - Tony Temple is the starting running back without a Heisman portfolio in the Cotton Bowl. Approaching what could be his final college game it would be easy to overlook the Missouri senior, who's missed time due to injuries and has 758 yards rushing after topping 1,000 last year. He's just one of many options in the No. 7 Tigers' spread offense and thus no match statistically against Arkansas' Darren McFadden, the Heisman runner-up and a likely top-five NFL draft pick next spring. Temple, who will appeal for a medical redshirt fifth season after the Jan. 1 game, refuses to get caught up in that kind of talk. He just wants to go out in style, if this truly is the end. "Definitely, playing against a great back is some kind of competition," Temple said Friday after Missouri's second day of workouts in Texas. "But you don't get caught up in it, you just don't worry about that.

Polley set for Sunday title bout

When Byron "Bear" Polley scored a unanimous decision on the undercard of last October's Rob Calloway-Galen Brown fight, he never realized he was fitting the credentials for his next big fight. But Brian "The Beast" Minto's camp saw exactly what it was looking for in Polley, a St. Joseph heavyweight in his ninth year as a pro. "They were looking for someone with a good record who lacks power," said Polley, who fights Minto at 2 p.m. Sunday at Mountaineer Race Track in Chester, W. Va.

Foul trouble dooms Benton

LIBERTY, Mo. - Benton learned a tough - yet valuable - lesson in its first loss: How to play without Johnny Coy. Foul trouble forced the all-state senior to the bench for extended periods, but Luke Talbot and Trynon Bigham took their turn and carried the Cardinals during those stretches. Despite their efforts, Benton lost to Kearney in overtime, 59-55, on Friday in the semifinals of the Bank Midwest/William Jewell Holiday Classic.

Friday's prep sports 12-29-07

Determined defense

LeBlond derails Tarkio girls for 2nd straight season

Jocelyn VanVickle mirrored nearly every Jenelle Freeman move Friday night. Bishop LeBlond's energetic point guard couldn't stop the Indians' senior scoring machine from putting up 22 points, but most of them came early and late. In between, VanVickle shut her down, and the rest of the Golden Eagles' defense put the clamps on Freeman's supporting cast.

Missouri feeds appetite at Cotton Bowl festivities

DALLAS - The Lawry's Beef Bowl used to be a Cotton Bowl week eating competition, with schools attempting to pack in as much prime rib as possible. It's not about excess so much these days, with Missouri and Arkansas hitting the restaurant on different evenings, though some players still get into it. The Tigers' 105-player traveling squad displayed a healthy collective appetite, polishing off 400 pounds of meat along with the trimmings, in their turn at the dinner table on Thursday night.

See ya later 2007!

The events to attend to celebrate the new year

It looks like 2007 has worn out its welcome, because we are kicking the year to the curb and are ready to spend 52 weeks with 2008. Besides being an excuse to make resolutions (that you will inevitably break in three to six weeks time), a new year means New Year's Eve, which will give St. Joe residents a reason to go out and bar owners a reason to rake in the dough.

New year, unique celebrations

Other countries celebrate New Year's Eve in different ways

When the clock strikes midnight ringing in 2008, there's a lot more to do than watch Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve - at least if you live in other parts of the world. Many countries have traditions similar to American ones. Poppin' the bubbly and lighting fireworks are an almost universal New Year's Eve custom. Besides that, however, other countries have different events and traditions, like marathons, singing competitions and burning a few dummies.

One-two punch

Flannigan's Right Hook to perform at O'Malley's Irish Pub

You could call it a one-two punch when Flannigan's Right Hook plays at O'Malleys Irish Pub in Weston this weekend. The pub, with the historic limestone cellar built 55 feet below the ground, already sets the scene for a good time. But when you add Flannigan's Right Hook, a Celtic bluegrass band that plays with the energy and youth of a rock band, it's going to be a rollicking good time.

On the scene: The weekend in between

Time with family, check. Holiday gorging that caused a belt-loosening nap, check. Boozing with friends realizing that I have lost a great deal of my alcohol tolerance since college, double check. Now that the holiday is over, New Year's Eve is within sight. But before you use it as an excuse to tip one too many back and wear funny hats on a Monday, you should see what's happening this weekend. Shouldn't you?

Artist of the week: Zach Sauls

You won't find young St. Joe artist Zach Sauls' work in any gallery (at least not yet). The Missouri Western graphic design student does artwork for local music fliers and band T-shirts. Look for his work at www.myspace.com/zachsauls.

Going back, thinking forward

Kansas City blues veterans Levee Town return to St. Joe

Trying to make blues sound modern may seem like a difficult task, but Kansas City blues group Levee Town is going to give it a shot. Having converged from different parts of the country, the members of Levee Town, which include Brandon Hudspeth on guitar and vocals, Jimmie Meade on harmonica and vocals, Jacque Garoutte on bass and vocals and Jan Faircloth on drums, have made Kansas City their stomping grounds.

What's up for the week of Dec. 28

Thursday's Prep Sports Boxes

Wednesday's prep sports Dec. 27

This is the end, finally

After weeks of secrecy, Edwards confirms Johnson will miss season finale

KANSAS CITY - The broken foot Larry Johnson sustained on Nov. 4 turned out to be season-ending after all. Kansas City coach Herm Edwards confirmed Monday that Johnson would not play in the season finale at the New York Jets, meaning the two-time Pro Bowl running back has lost the better part of an entire season in the prime of his career. Week after week, the Chiefs refused to disclose the nature of the injury and were hoping, they said, that Johnson would get back on the field. It wasn't until several weeks after he got hurt that Johnson revealed on a teammate's radio show that he'd broken a bone in his right foot. After doing individual work for more than a month, he tried to return to practice last week but apparently suffered a setback.

Prep Sports December 22 2007

Hamilton deserves to be honored for outdoors contributions

One of the perks of being an outdoor writer is the opportunity to meet the folks who truly make a difference when it comes to ensuring the future of conservation. Unfortunately, I never had the privilege of getting to know one of the area greats, Max Hamilton of Chillicothe.

Fantasy sports spreads to bass fishing

As Christmas looms closer and closer, many anglers will be making their lists and checking them twice. The contents of these lists have nothing to do with who's naughty and nice, but rather who's going to place at the top during the 2008 FLW Bass Fishing Tour.

Missouri to play Illinois for braggin' rights

ST. LOUIS - Historically, the Missouri-Illinois Braggin' Rights game is the toughest ticket in town. Not so much this year, however. For the second straight year - but only the second time since 1997 - neither school is ranked, and the Illini and Tigers have combined for seven losses heading into Saturday night's matchup. Consequently, good seats could be had even on game week.

The Spears family does it again

Jamie Lynn's teen pregnancy is the latest trouble for the family

After all the crazy stunts Britney Spears has pulled this past year, you just didn't think it could get any worse for the Spears family. But it did, it a major way, when her 16-year-old sister Jamie Lynn, the "good" kid, got pregnant.

What's going on?

Here's what's changed in St. Joe arts and entertainment in 2007

This weekend, before the most wonderful time of the year, there will be many people coming into St. Joe to visit family and friends for the holidays. For these people, a question that may be uttered is "so, what's new?" In the back of their minds, they may also be curious as to what's new in St. Joe and maybe even Kansas City when it comes to arts and entertainment. So, for those people - and those of you who may not have been paying attention - here are a few things that have either been added or changed in St. Joseph's arts and entertainment community.

Arts community members offer their top five for 2007

Guitar great

Fast Johnny Ricker set to rock Magoon's tonight

The acts that Fast Johnny Ricker has played with or opened for read like a list of rock and blues royalty. There's the Fabulous Thunderbirds, Leon Russell, Bo Diddley, George Thorogood, Nick Lowe, The Byrds... The list goes on and on. And the blues/rock guitarist with the flying fingers is returning to St. Joseph tonight. Ricker and his band will be playing from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Magoon's (Cover is $6. A Customer Appreciation Night will be held from 7 to 9 p.m.). "He just has a rapport with the audience," says Barry Woodhull, Magoon's owner. "Everybody's up on their feet the whole time." Not bad for a musician who started out on what he calls "the hotel circuit" when he was 5 years old.

Christmas at the Shaft

Dolewite brings its second annual Christmas party downtown

For $4 tonight you can dance to retro hip-hop, hang with drag queens and celebrate Christmas. Members of Dolewite, the '80s and '90s hip-hop cover band performing at the Shaft, say it's a small price to pay. "It's a perfect time to get your jollies in and set the mood for opening Christmas presents," says Warren Vandever, who does vocals and runs the turntable for Dolewite. "We're going to have a great time."

On the scene: Musical variety for the pre-Christmas weekend

Well, the holidays are literally around the corner. I will not be "On the Scene" this week, as I will be driving back home to Kentucky, a state where global warming actually makes the weather... warmer. There will be no "Sound, Scene, Delivered" this week, which will be a big letdown for my dad and the other 12 people who read it. However, I have started a new blog called "B-Sides" where I am doing CD reviews and commenting on national music news, so please check that out.

Artist of the week: Odius

People don't have to listen to Evanescence to hear a hard rock band with a powerful female singer. Desoto, Kan., hard rock family unit Odius (composed of Laura Roach on vocals, Alex Roach on drums, Allen Roach on bass, Chris Roach on guitar and Neal Roach on guitar and keys) combines the crag-moving, crunchy metal riffs and psychedelia with Laura's angelic, ethereal voice. They will perform at 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22, at The Rendezvous. To hear Odius, go to www.myspace.com/odiusrock.

What's up for the week of Dec. 21

Thursday's prep basketball scores, Dec. 21

Benton girls' defense befuddles LeBlond

Benton set up a simple but effective defensive strategy Thursday night: deny, deny, deny. The Cardinals rarely allowed Bishop LeBlond to execute as much as a basic entry pass and displayed a newfound intensity during a 56-25 victory at Springer Gymnasium.

Taking celebrity trainwrecks to a whole new level

What happened to having a career before going down in flames?

We're used to celebrity trainwrecks by now. But what happened to celebrities having a career before they spiraled out of control? Now they only have one hit song or movie before going to rehab or getting arrested.

Prep Sports Thursday December 20 2007

Central gets pinned by Park Hill

Central made the most of its individual victories Wednesday against Park Hill. Unfortunately, the Indians managed only three wins during a 49-17 wrestling dual loss to the Trojans at Central High School.

Mike Rucker's NFL career could be near its end

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - There's been no big announcement, mainly because there's been no decision, but Carolina Panthers defensive end Mike Rucker knows Saturday night's game against the Dallas Cowboys could be his last at Bank of America Stadium. A fixture on Carolina's defensive line since he came into the league as a second-round draft choice in 1999, Rucker said he'll wait until after the season to decide if wants to keep playing. He admits he's been giving some thought to the alternative.

Chiefs put Turley on IR

KANSAS CITY - Offensive tackle Kyle Turley has been placed on injured reserve because of a foot injury, the Chiefs announced Wednesday. Turley played in seven games at right tackle for the Chiefs this season until hurting his ankle.

Chiefs' Gonzalez continues to perform at high level

KANSAS CITY - One more year is all Tony Gonzalez needs to become the most productive tight end in the history of the National Football League. The question for Kansas City's nine-time Pro Bowler is whether he'll spend that year as a Chief.

Sorry I wasn't listening, my ear was talking

As a nerd I get excited when new and interesting gadgets hit the market. This one, however, makes me go....huh?

Tuesday's Prep Boxes

Those little guys aren't done yet

It has been reported today that Peter Jackson and New Line Cinema have put their differences behind them to make two new movies from JRR Tolkien's acclaimed series.

Monday's prep sports

Northwest wakes up just in time

SAN ANTONIO, Texas - More than four hours after the Northwest Missouri men's alarm clocks went off Monday morning, the Bearcats finally received their wake-up call. Northwest roused itself around 7:30 for a 10:30 tip-off in the opening game of the St. Mary's River City Classic, but the Bearcats looked sluggish and dazed during the first half against Ouachita Baptist. Finally trailing by 14 points with a little more than 13 minutes to go, the Bearcats snapped out of their funk and rallied for a 64-58 victory - a run that started, not coincidentally, when the clock hands at Bill Greehey Arena finally reached noon.

Helmer at The Vous

Helmer comes to St. Joe for half-hearted performance

Even with a feature story on the band in the News-Press Friday, it wasn't enough to convince many people to brave the cold, icy conditions to see Marshalltown, Iowa-alternative rock band Helmer play at The Rendezvous.

Dang it Jim! I'm a doctor, not a webserver!

Sadly, it was announced this weekend that startrek.com will be shut down.

Northwest, Western men travel to River City Classic

SAN ANTONIO, Texas - Many northwest Missouri residents, no doubt, wished for a reprieve from their cold, dark homes and icy streets last week. On two local college campuses, a steady dose of finals added to an already less-than-ideal week. While packing up and leaving the region isn't an option for many, it was for the Missouri Western and Northwest Missouri men's basketball teams. They turned wishful thinking into reality, heading here for the St. Mary's River City Classic and a little escapism this week.

Croyle continues streak of ups and downs

KANSAS CITY - Tony Gonzalez still remembers what a sophomore slump feels like. By his count, Kansas City's all-pro tight end dropped 17 passes during his second season in the league while adjusting to his increased role in the offense.

Chiefs continue slide in loss to Titans

KANSAS CITY - The franchise now known as the Tennessee Titans hadn't won in Kansas City in exactly 17 years. When the dejected Chiefs think back to their last win in their once-friendly home, it only seems that long.

Top 5: Fantastic Frozen 5

Chances are that you missed the smattering of goings-on around the region - possibly while waiting for your power to come back on. Here are a few of the top performances from the chilly week that was:

Rewind: THAWING OUT

Wintry weather shakes up area athletics

Prep Sports Sunday December 16 2007

Chiefs' Johnson, Titans' Young to renew friendship on field

KANSAS CITY - One wore No. 10, the other No. 11. One played offense, the other defense. They had lockers right next to each other as Texas Longhorns, playing together, growing together, becoming close friends as college stars.

Missouri blasts McNeese State

COLUMBIA, Mo. - Matt Lawrence and Stefhon Hannah each had 14 points, and Missouri scored 18 straight in the first half to put the game away early in an 81-44 victory over McNeese State on Saturday night.

Kansas gets its starting lineup back and swamps Ohio

KANSAS CITY - Brandon Rush had three good reasons to be pumped.

What rumor? Pinkel staying at Mizzou

COLUMBIA, Mo. - Scratch Gary Pinkel's name off any other school's wish list. Missouri's coach has become a bit of a hot commodity in his seventh season, leading the Tigers to No. 1 before losing in the Big 12 championship game. But on Saturday, as the team returned to practice for the Cotton Bowl, Pinkel said he was staying put.

National championship sideline report

A closer look at the the facts and figures of the 2007 NCAA national championship game.

Northwest, Valdosta State box score

NCAA Division II national championship

Valdosta shuts down Omon

FLORENCE, Ala. - Knowing what it takes to shut down Northwest Missouri State is easy: stop running back Xavier Omon. Accomplishing that task has proved to be far more daunting. But Valdosta State earned a national championship on Saturday by stomping the Bearcats' vaunted ground attack.

Valdosta proves it is the better team

FLORENCE, Ala. - Failure always breeds regrets. The past two years, Northwest Missouri State left Florence thinking "if only." That wasn't the case this time.

Northwest falls in 3rd straight national title game

FLORENCE, Ala. - Northwest Missouri State played the role of Division II football bridesmaid again on Saturday. Michael Terry scored from 1 yard out with 22 seconds remaining, handing Valdosta State the national championship with a 25-20 victory against the Bearcats.

Peterson bright spot in Northwest's loss

FLORENCE, Ala. - Everyone notices that at a muscular 6-foot-3, 250 pounds, Northwest Missouri State tight end Mike Peterson is big. Peterson, however, notices he has become a man.

Royals send pitcher Buckner to D'Backs for 2nd base prospect

KANSAS CITY - The Royals traded right-hander Billy Buckner to the Arizona Diamondbacks for switch-hitting infielder Alberto Callaspo on Friday.

Prep Sports Friday December 12 2007

Hunting's role changes, historical essence remains

The temperature kept dropping and was now in the lower 50's. It was going to be a cold, crisp night.

MDC may make changes to deer hunting

With the initial trial phase of antler point restrictions coming to an end this winter, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is looking to making some substantial changes to current deer hunting regulations. To accomplish this task, they're asking for input from Missouri's deer hunters and the public.

Northwest's Pestock comfortable on field and in boxing ring

MARYVILLE, Mo. - When Northwest Missouri State goes toe-to-toe with Valdosta State today in the NCAA Division II national championship game, the Bearcats' offense hopes to knock out the Blazers. Guard Tom Pestock could be the most qualified athlete to deliver that punch. The 6-foot-6 1/2, 305-pound lineman isn't afraid to hit people. Heck, he isn't afraid to try hardly anything, including stepping into the ring with other heavyweights.

Bearcats live up to fans' high expectations

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Bearcat fans looked a little green in the face after Northwest Missouri State struggled to slip past MIAA afterthought Fort Hays State by just a touchdown on Oct. 20. Not the bright green of the school colors but a sickly looking shade.

Osborn steps out of the shadows

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Patience. Preparation. Perseverence. The "Three Ps" that Joel Osborn lives by could have the Northwest Missouri State quarterback just 60 minutes away from a big "W" in Florence, Ala.

Northwest's national championship history

When the Northwest Missouri State football team squares off against Valdosta State at 11 a.m. today, it will be making its fifth appearance in the NCAA Division II national championship in the past 10 seasons. The Bearcats' first two title game appearances ended in victories over Carson-Newman. However, the past two seasons have ended in losses to Grand Valley State. Here is a look back at those four games:

Northwest-Valdosta scouting report

A closer look at the national championship matchup

Not spicy enough?

The Spice Girls' reunion tour is opening to good reviews, but little attention

For all the hype, the Spice Girls' reunion tour seems to be getting very little attention. Or is it just me?

Holly and jolly harmonies

Two touring vocal groups come to the Missouri Theater for the holidays

Men are from Mars. Women are from Venus. Both of them can sing. And the proof will come with an ample amount of holiday cheer when two different singing quartets, Mulberry Lane and Three Men and a Tenor, come to the Missouri Theater to bring a warm feeling to a town coated in ice. The first group to roll into St. Joe will be Omaha-based sister act Mulberry Lane, who returns for another holiday performance at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15. The four siblings, Jaymie, Rachel, Bo and Allie Kat Rizzuto, have been performing nationally and internationally, selling more than 600,000 albums and appearing on "Good Morning America," CNN and "CBS This Morning."

Raising the roof

St. Joseph Community Chorus and the Fountain City Brass Band to perform

In honor of the holiday season, the St. Joseph Community Chorus and the Fountain City Brass Band will come together in song for the first time with performances at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 16, and at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 17. The chorus has performed a holiday concert for at least 25 years, according to Frank Thomas, director. This year, he says, will feature a decidedly different program.

Mixing it up

Helmer combines a mix of genres, influences

All bands have influences, other bands whose music has shaped their music. But while many bands' influences hail from the same musical genre, Iowa-based band Helmer's influences are all over the place, bringing in a little bit of everything. The band, which takes the stage with Injected Element at 10 p.m. tonight at the Rendezvous, describes its sound as "indie, folky rock and roll." Its influences run the gamut from The Replacements to the Beatles, Rolling Stones to Death Cab for Cutie. Each member brings his own influence to the songs, says lead singer David Helmer.

On the scene:The ice storm cometh ... and so does the music

Is it just me, or is the song "Cold as Ice" by Foreigner stuck in anybody else's head? Well, I have survived my first ice storm. Unfortunately, this winter weather has caused me enough problems, including a short stint without power and a road slick enough to cause one cowardly soul to do an old fashioned hit-and-run on my defenseless car.

Artist of the week: Josh Myers Band

The Josh Myers Band's music is entirely instrumental, with lead guitar-focused blues rock in the vein of a couple of above average Joes... guitar players Joe Bonamassa and Joe Satriani. But Myers says that within those notes, he is saying a lot about his life. The band will have a CD release party for its album "Soul Serenade Sessions" at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, at Word of Life Church in St. Joseph. To hear how they sound, go to www.myspace.com/joshmyersband.

Hunan Restaurant

Best Bite: Hunan Restaurant

What's up for the week of Dec. 14

Prep Sports

Only a few Royals in Mitchell Report

KANSAS CITY - Catcher Gregg Zaun allegedly had performance-enhancing drugs delivered to the Kansas City clubhouse, but the Royals came out relatively unscathed compared with many teams in the report from Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell. Outfielder Jose Guillen, signed this month to a three-year, $36 million contract by the Royals, was also named in the report. The commissioner's office has announced a 15-day suspension of Guillen for violation of the joint drug program, beginning with the start of next season.

Omon selected toLittle All-American team

NEW YORK - Danny Woodhead ran for more yards than any player in the history of college football and was selected to The Associated Press Little All-America teams each season he played at Chadron State. The 5-foot-9 running back was a first-team Little All-American for the second consecutive season, joining Northwest Missouri State running back Xavier Omon and Harding quarterback David Knighton on the team released Thursday.

Northwest say they're not superstitious

MARYVILLE, Mo. - A cup of sawdust and a Mohawk couldn't compensate for three points, those three interceptions or that late fumble last year. Northwest Missouri State took careful steps in the days and moments leading up to the 2006 Division II title game to make sure its superstitious ducks were all in a row. But Grand Valley State's 17-14 victory against the Bearcats - its second in as many years - certainly forced them to reevaluate their methodology.

The Gods of Metal return

From the stage to the NFL, Zeppelin are flying again

In my mind and the minds of many rock fans, hard rock icons Led Zeppelin haven't gone anywhere. Jimmy Page's titanic riffs have provided the framework for much of today's hard rock and metal (whether it's grunge or Wolfmother). As for Robert Plant, his avalanche-causing vocal style continues to influence the likes of Chris Cornell among others. John Paul Jones was responsible for one of the most memorable bass lines of all time in "Dazed and Confused." And John Bonham...probably the greatest rock drummer of all time.

Coming to you in Hi-Fi Stereo

Turn over and press play

Unless you are a rabid fan or at least a curious listener of The Beatles, you don't care too much about songs known as "B-sides." They are often the least accessible tracks from a band. Songs a band doesn't think would fly on mainstream radio. That being said, this is not a blog about B-sides.

Florence and warmer weather, here I come

It's not Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale or South Padre Island, but I'll take it. I'll take just anything to get out of my dark, chilly house and the ice and snow that surround it and just about everything else in Northwest Missouri this week. Forget it, folks. I'm leaving on a jet plane for Florence, Ala.

Royals let Brown go

KANSAS CITY - Outfielder Emil Brown will be a free agent after the Kansas City Royals announced Wednesday they will not offer him a contract for 2008.

Chiefs running back Smith latest to lose loved one

KANSAS CITY - For the third time in two weeks, a key player for the Kansas City Chiefs will be attending the funeral of a loved one the day before a game. Kolby Smith, slated to be the starting running back against Tennessee on Sunday, will be in Florida on Saturday for services for his grandfather.

Northwest's Peterson relishes chance to win title

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Mike Peterson stands 6 feet, 3 inches tall and weighs 250 pounds. The Northwest Missouri State tight end establishes a daunting presence on most offensive plays. But he's rarely more of a factor than when he plays at Braly Municipal Stadium in Florence, Ala.

Platte County's Sheman looks to move on

Prep Notebook

PLATTE CITY, Mo. - After steering Platte County's football program for two decades, Chip Sherman soon will set sail for another school. Sherman recently confirmed that he has been interviewing with a number of schools in Kansas - as well at least one private institution in Missouri - with the intention of accepting a head coach position elsewhere. The opportunities have come pouring in for a coach who led Platte County to the third-best winning percentage for any Missouri program during his 20-year tenure.

Prep Sports

Jazz for the holidays

I usually never like Christmas jazz CDs. They seem like too much novelty and they don't often do justice to artist's talent or the familiar traditional songs. And let's face it, not many artists can pull off a Christmas album like say a Tony Bennett that has the potential to become a yearly standard. It's usually a one season wonder.

w00t! n4m3d w0rd 0f th3 y34r

After being on the list for two years, w00t has been named Word of the Year by Merriam-Webster.

Chiefs, Broncos look for improvement

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. - Jay Cutler doesn't venture out in public much these days. "I lock myself in my room," the Denver Broncos' young quarterback deadpanned. That would be one way for Cutler to insulate himself from the scrutiny that comes with a late-season slide. The Broncos (5-7), losers of two straight, are facing the possibility of watching the playoffs from home for the second year in a row. Their hopes of salvaging the season begin today against the Kansas City Chiefs (4-8), who have lost five straight and haven't won in Denver since 2000.

Chiefs hurt on, off field

KANSAS CITY - Five straight losses have left the Kansas City Chiefs hurting in both body and mind. Linebacker Donnie Edwards and left tackle Damion McIntosh were injured in Saturday's 24-10 loss to San Diego, and both are questionable for Sunday's game at Denver, along with several other starters and backups.

No. 3 Kansas slams Dupaul

LAWRENCE, Kan. - Sasha Kaun scored the first six points in a 24-1 first-half run that sent No. 3 Kansas soaring past DePaul 84-66 on Saturday in front of the 100th consecutive sellout in Allen Fieldhouse.</

Missouri among favorite homes for bald eagles

Snow isn't the only thing arriving in the Midwest recently. Bald eagles have been making their way into Missouri for weeks. While many may not realize it, Missouri is one of the leading bald eagle states. The eagles migrate here each fall from their nesting range in Canada to hunt the open waters of our lakes and rivers. This migration is a special one for our nation's symbol of strength and freedom. Bald Eagle populations have recovered dramatically since 1978 when they were declared an endangered species. Their numbers have risen to a point that earlier this year they were delisted as a threatened or endangered species by the United States Department of Interior.

Why not hunt a more challenging game?

Most hunters tend to go with the flow and pursue game like deer, turkeys, waterfowl and upland or small game. For those who want to step off the well-beaten path and pursue a critter that will force you to become a better hunter, consider the coyote.

Northwest-Grand Valley scouting report

A look at Saturday's Division II semifinal between Northwest Missouri State and Grand Valley State

Irish girls out of luck in loss to Cardinals

Karli Sample knows she can't score from the bench. Benton's sophomore center learned the lesson during the Cardinals' first three games, especially a disappointing loss to Central earlier this week. Sample applied her knowledge Friday night against Lafayette and took out some frustrations, scoring 13 points in the first quarter and finished with a team-high 20 in the Cardinals' 64-35 blowout win against the rival Fighting Irish at Lafayette High School.

Benton boys topple Lafayette

With every Johnny Coy 3-pointer, the holes in Lafayette's defense widened. The Fighting Irish couldn't stop Benton's 6-foot-7 senior or the Cardinals' supporting cast. The result wasn't pretty for previously undefeated Lafayette.

Omon matures into Northwest's leader

MARYVILLE, Mo. - He came to Maryville as a sullen, sometimes angry football player. Nearly 7,000 rushing yards and more than 1,200 carries later, Xavier Omon will graduate from Northwest Missouri State University next week as a man. Omon amazed Northwest football coach Mel Tjeerdsma last Saturday with his 309-yard performance against Chadron State, but Tjeerdsma's admiration goes far beyond those numbers.

Great Scotts! A Flux Compacitor

Has 2007 been a bad year for you? Not really looking forward to 2008? Wish you could go back to a place where times were easier? Or maybe, like me, you are just a big Back to the Future fan.

Give me a real celebrity

Fame comes too easy these days

Almost anyone can be famous these days, if they have the right MySpace page or video on YouTube.

Snowfall: The Tony Bennet Christmas Album

There are some people who just seem like logical choices to make a Christmas CD. Artists whose voices are such a part of the American fabric makes it almost a requirement.

Tom Smith, the disciplinarian?

Western men's coach Tom Smith said he never used to punish his players for taking bad shot by sitting them. Now in his 20th season with the Griffons, the coach might be changing his ways.

Music's cause

St. Joseph Music Foundation gives local musicians a united front

The smoky and comfy confines of Cafe Acoustic have seen their share of music and appreciative listeners over the years. But on Thursday evenings for the past few months, a group of musicians has come together to share more than melody. They share ideas. They share knowledge. They share a cause and a goal to make their presence felt and expand the local influence of the musical community. This is the basis of the St. Joseph Music Foundation, a relatively young organization of veteran St. Joe musicians, varied bands, venue owners and local music fans who want to see that a change is gonna come. The executive committee of the St. Joseph Music Foundation are a trio of local musical veterans. They all agree that the St. Joe music scene has seen better days.

Piano precision

Monster Concert featuring young performers set for Saturday at Missouri Western

When 13-year-old Quentin Mabury takes the stage at Missouri Western State College Saturday, he won't be a bundle of nerves. He is a veteran performer at the St. Joseph Area Music Teachers Association Monster Concert. "I'm ready for it," the young pianist says. The monster concert will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, in the Fine Arts Theater on the Missouri Western State University campus. The concert will feature young musicians, ages 5 to 18, from St. Joseph and the surrounding area. Tickets are $6 for students and seniors and $8 for adults if purchased in advance or $1 more for both groups if purchased at the door. Tickets may be purchased at Missouri Western or from SJAMTA members.

On the scene: Beneficial bands and schoolhouse art

I know that most of the time I start off my column telling you what I saw last weekend and that you should go to "Sound, Scene, Delivered" online to check it out. Not this time. Sure, I saw a couple of shows and the content is online. This time around, I am going to go subliminal on you. Be prepared.

Artist of the week: Jamison Burns

Missouri Western State University senior and artist Jamison Burns is very graphic, at least when it comes to his art. He melds computer graphic design with his own drawings for pieces that are both a tribute to his influences and his own expression. He, along with senior artist Katie Sherman, will have his work displayed at the Potter Hall Gallery, Room 206 at Missouri Western State University through Dec. 14, during regular business hours.

What's up for the week of Dec. 7

Daniel instrumental for Mizzou

COLUMBIA, Mo. - A week after Missouri's unexpected national title run ended, Chase Daniel has a chance to bring the Tigers another honor the program has never achieved. The junior quarterback wasn't the only reason Missouri came within one victory of playing for its first national championship and was the No. 1 team in the country for the first time in 38 years. But he was the most important one.

Kansas' Rush arrested

LAWRENCE, Kan. - Brandon Rush, the leading scorer the past two years for No. 3 Kansas, was arrested Thursday for failing to appear in court on traffic charges. He was released from jail after posting $500 bond.

DeKalb's Wolfe signs with Benedictine

The season has started fast for DeKalb senior Kelsey Wolfe. In a season-opening win against West Platte last week, Wolfe poured in 27 points, and in the process, broke Sammy Jo Pierce's school record for career points. Wolfe now has 1,333 points after totalling 53 more points in two wins against Union Star.

Northwest seniors get one more home game

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Xavier Omon stood in the end zone, took a deep breath and looked around Emporia State's Welch Stadium for one last time at the end of Northwest Missouri State's November victory against the Hornets. The Bearcats' senior running back silently observed that farewell ritual this season at every MIAA stadium he graced. But two weeks ago, after the Bearcats dispatched West Texas A&M in the second round of the playoffs, an avalanche of interviews and other interruptions prevented Omon from completing the ritual at his home stadium. That bothered him, especially after he learned the Bearcats' next stop in their playoff journey was in Chadron, Neb. "I thought, 'Man, I may never play at this stadium again,'" Omon said.

Headlines and bylines for Saturday's game

Since two days still stand in between Northwest fans and Saturday's big game, here's plenty of coverage to keep you occupied in the meantime.

PODCAST: Division II semifinals and Western's prospects for 2008

In honor of the big game this weekend between Grand Valley State and Northwest Missouri State, we recorded The News-Press' first podcast today. Click here to hear Rick Dunaway, Jeff Harlin - d2football.com's MIAA columnist - and I discuss Xavier Omon's status as the nation's top DII player, pick their winner Saturday and discuss the matchups.

Omon vs. Woodhead - no contest

Xavier Omon won't admit it, but he made the Harlon Hill Trophy powers that be look... well... absolutely silly on Saturday in Chadron, Neb. Omon racked up 309 yards - most ever in a game in Northwest history - while Harlon Hill frontrunner Danny Woodhead looked just plain average with 91 yards on the cold, snowy day in Nebraska's northern panhandle.

Western men 75, Quincy 67

Marty Bell's voice easily traveled through two doors and boomed around the hallway outside the visitors' locker room at the MWSU Fieldhouse only interrupted by various banging noises. I can't verify if the Quincy coach left the locker room as he found it following that post-game speech to his players, nor can I print half of what I heard in that hallway. This is, after all, a family program.

Western men rally past Quincy

Lonnel Johnson created the moment to remember - a one-handed dunk that sealed Missouri Western's rally Wednesday night at MWSU Fieldhouse. But it was the less-glamorous play - one that won't make the highlight reel or leave a lasting impact on the 1,089 fans in attendance - that made Johnson's limelight-grabbing display possible.

Missouri's Daniel among Heisman finalists

NEW YORK - Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, trying to become the first sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy, and Arkansas running back Darren McFadden, the runner-up for last year's award, were among the four finalists selected Wednesday. Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel and Hawaii quarterback Colt Brennan were the other finalists. They will all be in New York on Saturday night when the award is given to the top player in college football.

Platte Co. grad might be affected by Marlins trade

Prep Notebook

The news took its time reaching Jake Blackwood, and the long-term effects might not manifest for a few years. Blackwood, a 2004 graduate of Platte County High School, found out about the trade involving the Florida Marlins from former high school teammate Nick Jaros on Wednesday afternoon. On Tuesday, the Marlins sent Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis to the Detroit Tigers in an eight-player deal. The impact for Blackwood - a minor-leaguer in the Marlins organization - is more profound than most.

Grand Valley coach says his team has its hands full

Grand Valley State football coach Chuck Martin did his best to soothe the wounds of the Lakers faithful Sunday night after the announcement that the defending national champions would have to travel to Maryville, Mo., for their semifinal game with Northwest Missouri State.

Kansas ready to start new traditions

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. - Against all odds, coach Mark Mangino found himself at a South Florida casino Wednesday. Mangino's surprising Kansas Jayhawks earned a Bowl Championship Series at-large berth and a trip to the Orange Bowl to face Atlantic Coast Conference champion Virginia Tech on Jan. 3. Mangino and Hokies coach Frank Beamer appeared at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino to promote the game.

Chiefs feeling depleted

KANSAS CITY - Kansas City's injury-depleted Chiefs were stretched even thinner Wednesday by family deaths that took away starting right tackle Chris Terry and starting linebacker Derrick Johnson.

Holiday sounds and rock noise Saturday

From symphony to soundscapes, a night of polar opposites

I have to say this night was one I was looking forward to most of the week. It was the night I would FINALLY get to see a full performance by the seminal local post-rock group The Rogers along with slow and methodic noise makers Actors and Actresses from Kansas City at The Rendezvous on Saturday. But before the show, curiousity got the best of me.

Google results show the world loves the iPhone; Osama ... not so much

Google has released its final web trends for 2007, and you may be shocked with the results.

Welcome to the club

The Pop Culture Club, that is

Introducing the latest addition to the St. Joseph News-Press Web site, the Pop Culture Club blog, covering everything from celebrities and trends to music and fashion.

BEARCAT NOTEBOOK: Northwest prepares for nationally televised game

MARYVILLE, Mo. - In last weekend's contest, Northwest Missouri State physically got the better of Chadron State. That leaves the Bearcats in good shape for Saturday night's nationally televised NCAA Division II semifinal against Grand Valley State.

Royals make deal with Mariners' Guillen

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Power-hitting outfielder Jose Guillen and the Kansas City Royals reached an agreement on a $36-million, three-year contract. The 31-year-outfielder batted .290 with 23 homers and 99 RBIs for the Seattle Mariners this year. Seattle declined its $9 million option and Guillen turned down a $5 million player option, receiving a $500,000 buyout. The agreement was subject to him passing a physical, a person familiar with the negotiations said Tuesday, speaking on condition of anonymity because no announcement had been made.ESPNdeportes.com and foxsports.com were the first to report the deal.

Heavy Heart

Western's Allen rejoins teammates days after sudden death of his mother

Their final conversation took place eight days ago, yet Roger Allen continued to call his mother this week - wanting to hear her voicemail greeting just one more time. Vanessa Allen talked to her son weekly on the phone, but she hadn't attended any of Roger's games the past three years as the 6-foot-4, 320-pound guard developed into a NFL prospect for Missouri Western. She planned to change that last week.

No quit in Kansas City

Edwards says winning more important than draft position

KANSAS CITY - The slumping Kansas City Chiefs are 4-8 and have four games left in a season that no longer holds any postseason promise. So wouldn't they be better off losing these last four and getting a high draft pick? Coach Herm Edwards answers emphatically "no" to the question that naturally arises this time of year when NFL teams are for all practical purposes eliminated from the playoffs.

MSSA all-state football teams released

Trenton, Maryville and Lawson highlighted area selections to the Missouri Sportwriters and Sportscasters Association All-State football teams, released today.

Central girls end Benton's 32-game win streak

Central knew all about Benton's 32-game win streak. But it was another busted streak that meant the most to the Indians, who upended the Cardinals on Tuesday 51-43 at Central High School.

Splitting time between The Waystation and Full Power Friday

Two good bands, one dude, hard decisions

As an arts and entertainment reporter, there are times that you wish you could clone yourself for other reasons than an extra pair of hands for housework. Occasionally, there is a time when you want to be in two places at once and decisions must be made.

Mineral Water Bowl musings

At first glance, the Mineral Water Bowl looks like a consolation prize. This Division II bowl game has a decent atmosphere and hands out some hardware, but I looked at it as an ultimately meaningless exhibition between two playoff-caliber teams that didn't have enough to get into the postseason. A few postgame interviews quickly changed my stance.

Wal-mart/Amazon to record labels: We want DRM-free music

The year of 2007 saw a big move to free digital music of DRM. From Steve Jobs' open letter to record labels and online users everywhere finding easier and better ways to get their hands on pirated copies of DRM-free music, record labels are beginning to feel the pressure to release their digital music without DRM protection.

Kansas invited to Orange Bowl

A week later than it wanted, Kansas beat Missouri. And an Orange Bowl bid is the surprising Jayhawks' reward. The eighth-ranked Jayhawks (11-1) got their first Bowl Championship Series berth Sunday and will meet No. 5 Virginia Tech (11-2) in Miami on Jan. 3.

Chiefs lose 5th consecutive

KANSAS CITY - Norv Turner finally found a way to beat Kansas City. All it took was two touchdowns and 177 yards rushing by LaDainian Tomlinson and eight sacks by the defense. Toss in Philip Rivers' 38-yard touchdown pass and the San Diego Chargers waltzed away with a 24-10 victory Sunday, making their coach 1-6 lifetime against the Chiefs.

California up ends Missouri

BERKELEY, Calif. - Once California started consistently contesting shots, Missouri lost all the momentum. And the game. Patrick Christopher scored 11 of his 18 points in the second half and the Golden Bears fought back in the final 20 minutes to preserve its perfect record, beating the Tigers 86-72 on Saturday night as part of the Big 12/Pac-10 Hardwood Series.

Chalmers leads Kansas past USC

LOS ANGELES - Mario Chalmers made a 3-pointer and a free throw in the final 20 seconds and No. 4 Kansas held off No. 22 Southern California 59-55 Sunday.

Missouri falls to Oklahoma in title game

SAN ANTONIO - The championship dream finally died for No. 1 Missouri. The Oklahoma Sooners showed the Tigers just what it takes to win a title: defense and a bruising running game near the goal line. The No. 9 Sooners rushed for three touchdowns, quarterback Sam Bradford threw for two more and Oklahoma coolly captured its fifth Big 12 title since 2000 by upending the upstart Tigers 38-17 Saturday night in the conference championship game in the Alamodome.

Western wins Mineral Water Bowl

EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, Mo. Presented with a chance at redemption, Jacob Schoonover made sure not to waste it. Three weeks after a let-down loss to Truman State, Missouri Western's senior linebacker parked a tenacious defense that lifted the Griffons to a 20-13 win against Wayne State Saturday in the Mineral Water Bowl.

Northwest rolls over Chadron State; sets up rematch with Grand Valley State

CHADRON, Neb. - Xavier Omon ran all over Elliott Field on Saturday in a record-setting performance, and Northwest Missouri State's defense again made Danny Woodhead look average in a 26-13 playoff victory against Chadron State.

Stories for December 2007

Monday, December 31

A few things for the stars to work on this year

Sunday, December 30

Saturday, December 29

Friday, December 28

LeBlond derails Tarkio girls for 2nd straight season

The events to attend to celebrate the new year

Other countries celebrate New Year's Eve in different ways

Flannigan's Right Hook to perform at O'Malley's Irish Pub

Kansas City blues veterans Levee Town return to St. Joe

Thursday, December 27

Wednesday, December 26

Monday, December 24

After weeks of secrecy, Edwards confirms Johnson will miss season finale

Friday, December 21

Jamie Lynn's teen pregnancy is the latest trouble for the family

Here's what's changed in St. Joe arts and entertainment in 2007

Fast Johnny Ricker set to rock Magoon's tonight

Dolewite brings its second annual Christmas party downtown

Thursday, December 20

What happened to having a career before going down in flames?

Wednesday, December 19

Tuesday, December 18

Monday, December 17

Helmer comes to St. Joe for half-hearted performance

Sunday, December 16

Saturday, December 15

Friday, December 14

The Spice Girls' reunion tour is opening to good reviews, but little attention

Two touring vocal groups come to the Missouri Theater for the holidays

St. Joseph Community Chorus and the Fountain City Brass Band to perform

Helmer combines a mix of genres, influences

Thursday, December 13

From the stage to the NFL, Zeppelin are flying again

Turn over and press play

Wednesday, December 12

Prep Notebook

Saturday, December 8

Friday, December 7

Fame comes too easy these days