stjoelive.com | Stories for December 2008

LeBlond sweeps titles at own holiday tournament

Bishop LeBlond's Kelly Walker drained a game-winning 3-pointer with 6.5 seconds remaining Wednesday in the girls championship game of the Bishop LeBlond Holiday Tournament, helping the hosts overcome an eight-point, fourth-quarter deficit.

Wednesday's area college boxes

Wednesday's prep results

Small steps for Northwest women

Baby steps. Northwest Missouri State's women may have taken one on Wednesday in their 73-70 loss at Pittsburg State. The Bearcats overcame a 15-point deficit, which is something that shows a bit of character.

Northwest men still winless in MIAA

PITTSBURG, Kan. - Carlos Taylor drained a 3-point field goal with 38 seconds left to give Pittsburg State its first lead since the game's opening shot, and the Gorillas went on to a 63-61 victory against turnover-plagued Northwest Missouri State on Wednesday. "I know I'd missed a couple, but (the defender) slipped, and I was able to get open," said Taylor, who led the Gorillas (7-5, 2-3 MIAA) with 19 points.

Bearcat women throw away advantage

PITTSBURG, Kan. - Northwest Missouri State overcame large deficits in both the first and second halves, only to squander a five-point second-half lead Wednesday in a 73-70 women's basketball loss against Pittsburg State. The loss spoiled Micaela Uriell's superior 3-point shooting effort.

Griffon women can't freeze out Lions

JOPLIN, Mo. - Undeterred by the zero in her scoreline and the previous nine shot attempts that clanked off the rim, India Wood kept shooting, and Missouri Western kept losing. Wood, Missouri Southern's senior guard, scored a career-high 32 against Southwest Baptist on Monday but couldn't even crack into the scoring column through 38 minutes, 15 seconds of Monday's game at the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. "I just kept telling her, 'You're going to win the game for us. No matter how many you miss, keep shooting,'" Southern coach Maryann Mitts said. "Thank goodness she listened."

Western men unable to slow Southern

JOPLIN, Mo. - Missouri Western's resurgence this season - spurred by a host of new players - took a detour Wednesday at Leggett & Platt Athletic Center. Western tripped over some new stumbling blocks, falling on a familiar result, an 81-58 loss, against Missouri Southern's run-and-gun, unrelenting-pressing style of play. Last season, the Lions (13-1, 3-1 MIAA) pressed Western into 59 turnovers, including 28 in Joplin. But graduation changed the makeup of Missouri Southern's team this season. The No. 10 Lions still go at a break-neck speed from tip-off to the final buzzer. But with a little less speed and much more size, Southern's half-court defense generated all those turnovers in the Lions' latest victory - make it four straight - against Western.

The Best of 2008

A random compilation of my favorite things

A random compliation of some of my favorite pop culture things of 2008.

2009: The Year of The Geek

From "Warcraft" to "Star Trek" to "Watchmen," there will be something for every geek at the movies in the coming year.

Grammy predictions. Pop categories

Older artists and new divas battle for pop prizes

Considering that all of the biggest selling albums of the year weren't exactly pop (Lil Wayne, Metallica, AC/DC), some may say it wasn't the best year for pop music. But then again, there's plenty of these songs that you probably had stuck in your head all year. That's what makes it "pop," right? Anyway, before the Feb. 2009 Grammys come up, here's who I think will win and should win in Pop music categories.

GAME BLOGS: Washburn at Western

I always get annoyed when coaches trail by more than 10 points and resort to fouling -- especially with three minutes left in the game. And when Washburn's Bob Chipman had his team fouling to erase a 14-point deficit Monday, my reaction fell somewhere between disgust and personal insult.

Kansas City Chiefs sign 4 from practice squad

KANSAS CITY - The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to terms with four reserve future free agents who spent at least part of the season on the team's practice squad.

Missouri blasts past Centenary in easy nonconference matchup

COLUMBIA, Mo. - Matt Lawrence scored 18 points, and DeMarre Carroll added 15 as Missouri beat Centenary 80-52 on Tuesday night. Leo Lyons added 10 points and a team-high seven rebounds for the Tigers (11-2), who have scored at least 80 points in 13 games this season.

Jayhawks easily tame Great Danes

LAWRENCE, Kan. - Cole Aldrich had 20 points, Tyrel Reed added 12 and Kansas shot 56 percent in a 79-43 rout of Albany, N.Y., on Tuesday night. Kansas (9-3) was coming off a difficult loss, an 84-67 setback at Arizona in its first true road game of the season. The Jayhawks took a week off and didn't have any trouble with Albany (8-5), dominating both ends for their 31st straight win at Allen Fieldhouse.

Kansas offense spreads wealth

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - Ask Kansas coach Mark Mangino the top reason for his Jayhawks' turnaround over the last two seasons and he points to his decision to switch to a no-huddle spread offense. After the 2006 season, Mangino hired Ed Warinner as the team's offensive coordinator and told him that making the switch to a no-huddle offense wasn't negotiable. The Jayhawks, who were 60th in the nation in passing offense in 2006, have climbed to eighth in the nation this season.

Massive change coming for Mizzou

The Chase Daniel era ended at Missouri with an overtime victory in the Alamo Bowl. It likely was the finale for sophomore Jeremy Maclin, too. The 25th-ranked Tigers' All-American led the nation in all-purpose yards for the second straight season and has been projected as an early first-round NFL draft pick. He was the catalyst Monday, awakening a slumbering offense with a 75-yard punt return and then catching the winning touchdown pass to beat Northwestern 30-23 in San Antonio, Texas. It would appear Maclin, who has 4.3-40 speed and good hands and toughness to match, has little more to prove at the college level after racking up 2,833 yards this season, fifth-most in NCAA history.

Falls City survives Mid-Buch, advances to championship

Falls City coach Don Hogue expected a close contest in the semifinals of the Bishop LeBlond Holiday Tournament. That didn't make it any easier to weather the final minutes of his team's 52-48 victory Tuesday against Mid-Buchanan. Despite some shaky free-throw shooting in the final two minutes, the Tigers survived a furious Dragons' comeback and advanced to the tournament's finale for the second straight season. "We knew it was going to be a battle," Hogue said. "A lot of it was our youth, but right now, we're showing a lot of heart and a lot of character."

Tuesday's Prep Sports

Missouri Western-Missouri Southern scouting reports

Missouri Western at Missouri Southern, 1 p.m.

Monday's prep boxes

Monday's area college boxes

Western men knock off Washburn

Some fans left early, not interested in watching free throws in a contest seemingly already decided. Others endured watching players walk from one end of the court to the other amid the crush of whistles and foul shots Monday night. Their assumptions turned into reality in Missouri Western's wire-to-wire victory - 76-72 over Washburn - but a bizarre conclusion to this contest jarred awake those who dozed off and put a different finish on what appeared to be a sleeper of a game for 38 minutes.

Maryville confounds Falls City in LeBlond Holiday Tournament

When Maryville's girls weren't forcing Falls City into mistakes Monday night, the Spoofhounds were creating second chances for themselves. A combination of Falls City turnovers and Maryville offensive rebounds allowed the defending champions to run away with a 61-26 win at Grace Gymnasium in the opening round of Bishop LeBlond Holiday Tournament. Maryville scored an astounding 39 points either off of turnovers or on second - and sometimes third and fourth - chances.

MIAA victory still elusive for Northwest men

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Both Fort Hays State and Northwest Missouri State entered Monday night's MIAA men's basketball game looking for their first conference win. Northwest still is looking. The Tigers hit 46 percent from beyond the arc in taking a 79-68 victory against the Bearcats, handing them their fourth straight conference loss. Guard Tyrone Evans led the way for the Tigers (8-2, 1-2 MIAA) with a game-high 23 points, going 7-for-13 from 3-point range.

Questions remain for Chiefs as offseason begins

KANSAS CITY - Atop the gleaming new headquarters building the Kansas City Chiefs opened this year sits the image of a big football. A gigantic question mark would seem more appropriate, at least for now. Hardly anybody who had anything to do with a 2-14 season, the worst in franchise history, is feeling safe. From the head coach to the starting quarterback, from the acting general manager to the head of the scouting department, from the director of special events to the most recently hired office assistant, people are wondering if - or how soon - they'll clean out their desk.

Brue, Northwest women beat Hays on boards

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Meghan Brue set a Bearcat Arena record on Monday night and didn't even realize it. Every one of her 20 rebounds was needed, however, in cold-shooting Northwest Missouri State's 55-50 victory against Fort Hays State. "Woooah. I had no idea," said Brue, a senior guard. "We've lost four games in a row, so I'm just so excited that we won that I don't even care about that." The 20 rebounds were the sixth most in program history and the most since 1997.

Griffon women make progress

But Western can't finish off No. 2 Wasbhurn

Best loss of the season. For a Missouri Western women's team that has yet to taste victory this year, a good defeat - like Monday's 63-55 loss to No. 2 Washburn at MWSU Fieldhouse - will have to suffice as a building point. The Griffons led nearly the entire first half against the Lady Blues (11-0, 4-0 MIAA) and then rallied from a 17-point deficit to at least inject a little doubt into the outcome of this contest.

Group releases report on law enforcement deaths

Residents of Northwest Missouri might not immediately recognize the names Tom Ballwin and William Briggs. But folks in these parts recognize the grim kinship shared with the two men.

Chiefs' dismal season comes to end with loss

CINCINNATI - While Herm Edwards talked like he'll be back as the Kansas City Chiefs' coach for at least one more year, running back Larry Johnson began trying to talk his way out of town. Pacing the sideline in a bright red jacket and cap, Edwards watched the Chiefs' season - and, perhaps, his days in charge of them - end with another dismal showing. The Cincinnati Bengals completed their late-season surge with a 16-6 victory Sunday that sent both struggling teams into an offseason of big decisions.

Saturday's Prep Sports

Durfey having time of his life

As a tie-down calf roper, Tyson Durfey competes in 8- or 9-second increments. But he's grown his career from year to year with longer-term thinking and in steady increments. And the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association star kicks off the newest season - with the Denver showcase in two weeks - in the best shape of his career. "Every year, it's just been kind of a gradual process of getting a little bit better for me," the 25-year-old Savannah, Mo., native said.

End to Chiefs' season comes not a moment too soon

CINCINNATI - Halfway through the season, the beaten-down Bengals and Chiefs started looking forward to this one. Today, Cincinnati and Kansas City will share misery and empathy as they end their woeful seasons together. At least one of them will get a win - or, maybe, they'll play to a tie that would be a perfectly fitting finale. Either way, their seasons will be over. Finally. And then they can start to forget about game plans and move on to the stuff they've all been thinking about for the last few weeks, the questions that matter most for both teams. Who stays? Who goes? Where do they go from here?

Best of St. Joe

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Ring in 2009 with some St. Joe fun or take a trip south

Some people only need a glass of champagne and someone to kiss when the ball drops. Others might want a celebrity New Year's experience or an Irish one. And a few more might want to party like it's 1984 while listening to a cover of Prince's "1999." Between St. Joe, Weston and Kansas City, all of these experiences are possible.

Original recipe

The blues-alternative Mickey Finn Band links authentic songs with covers

With a name like the Mickey Finn Band, you'd expect the lead singer of the group to be named Mickey Finn. That's not the case, however.

A tale of two leaders

'The Tsar and the President' on exhibit at Union Station

If you are like most educated adults, you know about Abraham Lincoln, the log cabin, his struggles on his way to become president and the tragic way his life ended. What you may not know, however, is how similar his life was to another great leader: Russia's Tsar Alexander II.

Rolling with circumstance

BR549 frontman Chuck Mead keeps the ride going as a solo artist

All work and no play makes country singer/songwriter Chuck Mead pretty friggin' miserable. So, he's decided to avoid the "work" part all together. "Luckily, I have stayed gainfully unemployed," Mead says.

The shuffle: Country conversion

Most of the time, this particular column focuses on me spewing out my opinion and reacting to what entertainment issue is intriguing/annoying me at the moment. But this week, The Shuffle is going to focus on something that will partly reveal the nature of my job but mostly document my changing musical tastes.

That game we play: All I want for Christmas

I no longer write letters to Santa Claus, I haven't since I was about 10. Still, there are always a few things I hope he brings me come Christmas time. And, in the spirit of Christmas, I've decided to be generous and give him until New Year's Eve to deliver.

This is: "Union Star Depot" by Delbert Weese

What's in that?: The Razzmatazz martini at The Rearview

That's cool: Coffee Cup Power Inverter ($29.99)

Calendars for Dec. 26, 2008

Kansas City seriously lacking in sacks

Chiefs hope to avoid ignominious fate of pass-rush futility

KANSAS CITY - A good title for a movie about the 2008 Chiefs might be "Sackless in Kansas City." In addition to having the worst record in team history, the young Chiefs (2-13) go into Sunday's finale at Cincinnati in harrowing jeopardy of entering the record book as the worst pass-rushing team in the history of the league.

For your Christmas viewing pleasure

Some Christmas tidbits to get you in the holiday spirit

A few things to read while you're waiting to open presents (or waiting for the relatives to leave).

Edwards: Chiefs will compete in '09

KANSAS CITY - Whether he's their head coach or not, Herm Edwards sees a contender taking shape in Kansas City in the very near future. "I see them competing next year," the embattled coach of the 2-13 Chiefs said in what may be his last regular-season Tuesday news conference. "I think this is going to be a good football team next year. I really do. That's just my opinion. I think the players feel that way, too." The massive rebuilding program Edwards launched this year is guaranteed to result in the worst season in club history whether the Chiefs win or lose their season finale Sunday at Cincinnati.

Mizzou slammed in St. Louis

Illinois makes it nearly a decade of dominance in Braggin' Rights game

ST. LOUIS - Demetri McCamey got out of Illinois coach Bruce Weber's doghouse in a hurry by leading a rout of No. 25 Missouri. McCamey scored all but two of his 20 points in an almost perfect first half of a 75-59 victory Tuesday night, the Fighting Illini's ninth straight in the annual Braggin' Rights game. Three days earlier, he had just seven points against Detroit. "My first couple of shots, they were falling," McCamey said. "And I kept shooting."

Prep notebook: Benton wrestlers welcome rare surplus

Brad Hubbard has faced a welcome dilemma this season. The Benton wrestling coach watched in dismay as illness and injuries ravaged the Cardinals' lineup a year ago and limited the team's ability to compete in dual matches and tournaments. But Hubbard has been facing a surplus in his Southside wrestling room these days - leading to Benton's runaway victory during Saturday's Lafayette Yuletide Wrestling Tournament.

Edwards sees strides in losses

KANSAS CITY - Even knowing now that Kansas City's rebuilding program may cost him his job, Herm Edwards insists he would do it again. "Because it was the right thing to do for the organization," Edwards said Monday, one week after his future was thrown into doubt by the abrupt resignation of president and general manager Carl Peterson.

Griffon Notebook:Western's men find the zone in Vegas

Missouri Western faces a zone defense infrequently and utilizes that approach against opponents even less. But the Griffons ended up on both sides of a zone in their biggest win of the year thus far - a 67-66 victory over Rollins (Fla.) College last Friday at the High Desert Classic in Las Vegas.

Forward thinking for Western hoops

Tricky stretch of MIAA tilts await Griffons next week

The record is worse one year later, but the feelings are much more positive for the Missouri Western men. The Griffons head into a brief break for Christmas this week with a 5-4 record and a tough three-game stretch awaiting next week. Last year, Western was 5-3 at this time but on the verge of an unprecedented conference campaign and not in a good way.

Can't foreclose on Santa

A story in Sunday's paper about how foreclosure has affected a family so close to Christmas has resulted in a community outpouring. I received dozens of e-mails and phone calls come Monday morning. "We want to help" they all stated. From monetary donations to get the family caught up on mortgage payments to food and presents for the four children for Christmas.

McCaskill named honorary co-chair of inauguration

The Presidential Inaugural Committee has named Missouri Sen. Claire McCaskill as one of the honorary co-chairs of the event.

Chiefs clinch worst season in franchise history in record cold

KANSAS CITY - The coldest conditions any Miami team has played in couldn't stop these history-making Dolphins. Thriving in mind-numbing frigidity, Chad Pennington threw three touchdown passes Sunday in a 38-31 victory over Kansas City that continued one of the most remarkable comeback seasons in NFL history. A year after going 1-15, the Dolphins can clinch the AFC East next weekend by beating the New York Jets, the team that cast Pennington aside when it acquired Brett Favre.

Saturday's Prep Sports

Saturday's College Sports

Central boys emerge during City Basketball Showcase

Lafayette senior Bryston Williams proved to be the most dangerous player on the court Saturday, but Central's senior leader on the other side refused to let his Indians cave. Diminutive guard Clay Linebach scored 15 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter, leading Central to a 61-50 win at Civic Arena in the finale of the two-day Hillyard City Basketball Showcase. Linebach's pressure points helped overcome Williams' game-high 23, seemingly willing Central to the finish. Linebach made 9 of 10 free throws in the fourth quarter, giving a celebratory pump of his fist after drawing a final Lafayette foul with Central holding an 11-point lead with 13.9 seconds left. Lafayette defeated Central last year.

Girls golfer of the year: Kate Gallagher

Kate Gallagher's "unsuccessful" golf season included a few disappointments. During the Savannah junior's season, she failed to win a regular season competition for the first time when she finished second at the Richmond Invitational. Gallagher bemoaned her struggles when a few rounds slipped into the 80s.

Girls tennis player of the year: Ellyn Turner

Ellyn Turner didn't know what it felt like to win a match at the State Tennis Championships. After three straight 0-2 finishes, Turner wasn't quite sure what to think after opening this year's Class 1 tournament with a win. Turner went on to win her second as well before finishing fourth to earn her first state medal.

Swimmer/Diver of the year: Dallas Becerra/Matt Zieger

With fewer than 10 varsity swimmers in the pool, Central's year-end success appeared watered down, at best. The lack of numbers never mattered to Matt Zieger and Dallas Becerra the News-Press swimmer and diver of the year, respectively. The talented tandem combined for 30 points at the Swimming and Diving Championships, lifting the Indians to a 21st-place team finish.

Boys cross country runner of the year: Russell Frakes

Russell Frakes had tasted plenty of individual success, but it wasn't enough for the Hiawatha senior. He wanted something bigger. Thanks to a handful of teammates that matched his level of dedication, Frakes - the News-Press boys cross country runner of the year - got to punctuate his career with his fellow Redhawk runners at the Class 4A meet in Wamego, Kan.

Softball player of the year: Kelcey McMurray

Lafayette's 20-6 record this season marked a school record for wins. Jordan Korell, Kylee Pettijohn and Baleigh McCrary made the offense go, but the Fighting Irish's success still starts on the mound. Junior pitcher Kelcey McMurray continued her record-setting career with 19 more wins, including 13 shutouts, two no-hitters and one perfect game.

Girls cross country runner of the year: Ashley Flook

Hidden in Hamilton's record-breaking run of state titles was the consistency of Ashley Flook. A four-time medalist, she never finished lower than 17th overall during her four trips to state, helping the Hornets attain an unprecedented fifth straight team title at this year's Class 1 championships in Jefferson City.

Volleyball player of the year: Dain Finney

Four years ago, Dain Finney made a choice between her two favorite sports. Now a senior at Bishop LeBlond, it appears she made the right call. Finney picked volleyball over softball, and now has three all-state honors to her credit. So how hard was that choice?

Boys soccer player of the year: Rogers

Jon Rogers never paid much attention to the record books during the season. He was too busy racking up goals by the handful. Maryville's senior striker - the 2008 News-Press soccer player of the year - surprised even himself with his lofty year-end total of 53 goals.

Western women return to old formula to find intensity

After heading into some games last season with just seven available players, Missouri Western coach Lynn Plett signed enough recruits during the offseason to ensure numbers wouldn't be a concern for the Griffons in the foreseeable future. But after more than a month of losing, Plett turned almost exclusively to Western's six returners and a familiar formula Saturday. That sextet fell six points short of a comeback Saturday at the MWSU Fieldhouse - 83-77 against Northeastern (Okla.) State - but the Griffons (0-9) head into their Christmas break with a better of idea of what it will take to win this season.

Mound City standout keys team's state championship run

Patrick Treece's head bounced off the ground at Ceglenski Field. At first an innocuous play during Mound City's 8-man quarterfinal game, the Panthers senior linebacker/running back came out of the game a little woozy. Some of Treece's teammates seemed at a loss on how to react.

Willard re-establishes Chillicothe

News-Press coach of the year

Expectations weren't exactly sky-high for Chillicothe this season - at least not outside of the team. "You like to stay under the radar until the end," Chillicothe coach Phil Willard said. "But we didn't stay under the radar for too long." The 2008 News-Press football coach of the year saw his team go from unranked in preseason polls to No. 1 with nine of 12 first-place votes entering the playoffs. Using a slew of talented seniors, Willard's rebuilding project that started three years earlier finally came to fruition.

Maryville lineman led way to state

News-Press defensive player of the year

After a dominating performance in Fair Grove that propelled his team to state, Zach Sherry struggled to find the words to properly convey his exuberance. On the field, the Maryville senior never had a problem expressing himself. Sherry - the 2008 News-Press defensive player of the year - provided the relentless, emotional core behind the Spoofhounds' wrecking crew of a defense that lifted Maryville to a remarkable 13-2 campaign and a runner-up finish in Class 2.

Central's Muhammad powered Indians' offense against tough competition

All News-Press offensive player of the year

Against a steady stream of top-crust talent, Ghaali Muhammad received plenty of chances to prove himself. With his team back in the Suburban League Big 7 conference, Central's standout senior running back - the 2008 News-Press offensive player of the year - excelled against some of the state's top Division I recruits by keeping his focus simple.

Benton works game plan at City Showcase

Apparently, all Benton's boys needed to break into the win column was a good game plan. Players and coaches came out of the locker room at Civic Arena glowing after their 60-49 win against Bishop LeBlond -- a result generally considered an upset for the previously winless Cardinals.

The technical turning point for the Western women

The Missouri Western came out of halftime on a 13-4 run to grab a 48-47 lead against Northeastern (Okla.) State on Saturday. For a team that hasn't won a game since March 1, 2008, there actually was a little room for optimism. But on Western's next trip down the floor, the Griffons' Tierra Ford bumped a Red Hawk, who was blocking out on a missed Western shot. On a borderline play, the referee whistled Ford for the foul - her third - with 16:14 remaining.

Friday's Prep Sports

Outdoors provides good gift options

With Christmas a mere five days away, last-minute shoppers are hitting their favorite stores in search of just the right gift. If you're an outdoors person, why not consider giving someone an invitation to the world of hunting or shooting? It may just be the gift that keeps on giving to the recipient - and the giver as well.

State program names 'best' trees

Whether its athletics, academics or a recreational pursuit, becoming a state champion often takes years of training, hard work and skill. There is an exception (make that 116 exceptions) to this rule. They are the Missouri Department of Conservation-certified State Champion Trees. What does it take to become a state champion tree? The conservation department uses a formula to assess a point value for big trees. Points are determined by a tree's height, crown spread (the average distance the tree stretches in all directions) and trunk size. They come up with this point value by adding the circumference in inches to the height in feet plus one-fourth of the average crown spread.

Benton girls roll past Central in City Basketball Showcase opener

Brett Goodwin rarely allows his players to enjoy a victory. Always seeking perfection, Benton's girls basketball coach didn't need much help to find the Cardinals' glaring deficiency Friday against Central. Benton dominated its crosstown rival in a 58-35 win at Civic Arena, a lopsided result despite a 21-for-37 shooting performance at the free-throw line.

MIAA recruiting wars

When Missouri Western coach Jerry Partridge heads back out on the recruiting trail next week, he'll be armed with architecture plans and building proposals from the Chiefs' proposed training camp facility.

Friday's City Showcase roundup

The second quarter posed problems for Benton and Central during the first day of the Hillyard City Basketball Showcase. Opening the inaugural event with a boy-girl doubleheader, each team saw a player go down with an apparent knee injury. Central's Reid Brown suffered was injured during the girls game, and Benton's Skylar Womach crumpled to the floor during the boys game. Both injuries came on non-contact situations, and both later returned to the game. Neither is expected to miss any time.

The lights went out this morning

About 5 a.m., I was awakened by an ominous sound: The furnace running full blast then clanking to a stop. Then the crack of a transformer blowing in the alley. "Not again," I groaned and pulled the covers over my head.

Newspapers may run late today

Newspapers may run late today because of inclement weather. The Friday edition was run earlier than normal so we could get it to you on time, regardless of the conditions of the roads. Some of our rural customers may expect more of a delay if icey roads hender us from delivering your newspaper on time. We assure you that you will still receive your newspaper, but we ask you to please be patient as we deal with icey roads and bad weather. We thank you for your continued support and your understanding during this time.

Holiday poppin'

The Saint Joseph Symphony presents its annual Yuletide Pops concert this weekend

The last two Saint Joseph Symphony concerts all had familiar classical works and the element of conductors competing for the symphony's musical director spot. But it's the holidays. Time to lighten things up a bit. The sounds of Christmas will ring throughout the Missouri Theater when the Saint Joseph Symphony presents its annual Yuletide Pops concert at 8 p.m. Dec. 20. Tickets are $12 to $37.

Silver screen songs

IT brings its own movie-themed brand of rock to The Rendezvous

When you're listening to the band IT perform "The Juice," don't be surprised if you have a flashback to a movie you've seen before.

Picking up and looking

Chloe Day packed up for California and then picked up a guitar

As the winter gloom sweeps over St. Joe, Chloe Day is enjoying the sunny skies of L.A. She remembers the chilly temperatures and snow all too well, however. She grew up just across the state in St. Louis. "I really hated winter," Day recalls. "I just wanted to go somewhere warm, like out here."

Review: "Yes Man"

Could this be Jim Carrey's return to greatness?

The last decent comedy in which Jim Carrey starred was "Bruce Almighty" in 2003. A lot has changed since then. The comedy landscape went the way of the Will Ferrells and Seth Rogens of the world. So here's the question: Is Jim Carrey still relevant?

The task of 'Everyman'

Exhibit takes a look at personal responsibility to the environment

All art has a message, though it's more clear in some works than in others. In the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Exhibit "Restorations: Robert and Shana ParkeHarrison," the message is certain.

The Shuffle: Funny oversight

Let the movie awards discourse begin. Last week, the nominations were announced for the 2009 Golden Globe Awards, which will be held Jan. 11.

That game we play: The grass is always greener?

We've all heard the old saying "The grass is always greener on the other side," meaning people often think others' circumstances are better than their own. I think this often applies in the dating world. The single people think married people have it so easy, having found a soulmate and never having to worry about the dating scene again. No navigating the stormy waters of blind dates, bad dates, Internet dating and getting hit on at the bars.

This is: "Longing" by Jeff Foster

What's in that?: Southside Blue Ride at Holt's

That's Cool: USB LED Beverage Cooler ($19.99)

Drink the Tonic

Calendars for Dec. 19, 2008

City Showcase showdown set

St. Joseph prep hoops teams heading to Civic

For the first time in 26 years, the basketball season tipped off without a jamboree in St. Joseph. Local hoops fans looking to fill the void will have a chance to do so this weekend, however, at the Hillyard City Basketball Showcase - which takes place today and Saturday at Civic Arena. Instead of a round-robin format consisting of eight-minute quarters, teams from Benton, Bishop LeBlond, Central and Lafayette will play regulation-length games against their city brethren. Four games will take place each day, starting at 3:30 p.m. today and 1:30 p.m. on Saturday. District officials said Thursday that even if classes are cancelled Friday due to inclement weather, the Showcase still could be played.

Western's proposed football facility upgrades should boost recruiting

The class of 2006 joined Missouri Western's football program in part because it believed in a concept. Football coach Jerry Partridge sold recruits like quarterback Drew Newhart and linebacker Sean Whiters on the belief that the Spratt Stadium they saw on visits would not be same facility in which they played their final collegiate game. The Missouri Western students passed the Max Experience for athletic facility upgrades by a 75-percent margin in March 2006, and the athletic department intended to use some of the approximately $500,000 a year of the Max money generated to give its football facilities a facelift.

Brownback keeps his word on term limits

In today's political climate, it merits a press conference when someone keeps their promise. Sam Brownback, the Kansas Republican, heads to Olathe Thursday morning to announce he will not seek a third term in the U.S. Senate.

The ballads of Bob Reeder

For this Irish entertainer, music is his addiction

Every Sunday in the dimly lit cellar of O'Malley's Pub in Weston, Mo., there is a show. Every week, from 3 to 9 p.m. (and sometimes as late as midnight, depending on the crowd), you'll find Bob Reeder. He's been entertaining with his extensive catalog of Irish pub songs, Celtic ballads, dirty limericks and joking toasts for the past 22 years. "I'm not sure if dedication is the right word," Mr. Reeder, who is Irish, jokes. "Addiction might be better."

Wednesday's Prep Sports

Gonzalez puts up another outstanding year even as Chiefs decline

KANSAS CITY - Pro Bowl selection No. 10 is probably the most impressive of all for Kansas City's No. 88. To maintain his place among the elite, all Tony Gonzalez had to do was overcome anger, injury, bitterness and age. Instead of just mailing it in for a going-nowhere team that he felt had betrayed him, Gonzalez remained loyal. Instead of slacking off, he increased his work load and became an inspiration for a locker room bulging with youth. With two games left for a 2-12 team, he's only 59 yards away from putting up the fourth 1,000-yard receiving season in one of the most acclaimed tight end careers in NFL history.

Western works on improvements for hosting Chiefs camp

Missouri Western's vision exists in estimates, artists' renderings and floor plans. But the Griffons are $2.5 million away from turning projection into probability. On Wednesday, athletic director Dave Williams released an itemized expense list and architecture plans for the Chiefs' proposed training camp facility on the Western campus - a project estimated at $13.7 million. The university already has $11.2 million of that secured - $10 million from the Chiefs and an additional $1.2 million from the Max Experience student fee, which the university bonded for $6.3 million in September.

Despite turmoil, Chiefs coach still focused on rebuilding

KANSAS CITY - The end of Carl Peterson's 20-year tenure as general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs was planned. That tenure came to a close Monday with the announcement he'd be stepping down at the end of the season. The speculation was that Kansas City's disheartening, last-second loss to San Diego on Sunday was the tipping point.

Western looks forward to benefits from hosting Chiefs camp

Drew Newhart grew up a Chiefs fan. The Missouri Western quarterback, who is from Cameron, Mo., now looks forward to the opportunity to practice on the same field as the Kansas City Chiefs. "It'll be interesting to see how they run things compared to us," Newhart said. "Just having them on the same fields and in the same facilities, it'll be a great time." Western and the Chiefs appear near completion of a deal that will bring the NFL team's summer training camp to St. Joseph - a deal clinched with the state sending $25 million in tax credits to the Jackson County Sports Complex Authority, which oversees the Chiefs' home, Arrowhead Stadium.

Peterson and Bush: Lame ducks together

While it might be a stretch to put a political spin on the resignation of Carl Peterson, the Kansas City Chiefs president and the American president share more than just a lame-duck status.

Surviving Murray State's charge toughens Tigers

COLUMBIA, Mo. - It wasn't as resounding as the previous week's 27-point victory over California, but last Saturday's 75-64 victory over Murray State likely was more important to Missouri. Having to weather a last-minute rally before winning provide valuable lessons for the Tigers, coach Mike Anderson said Monday.

Griffon Notebook: Western shakes off road slump

Facing a 22-month road losing streak, coach Tom Smith considered switching up the Missouri Western men's road trip routine and heading out to Hays, Kan., the day of the game. Prior to Saturday, the Griffons were 0-3 on the western Kansas plains under Smith and made the four-hour trip the day before each contest.

Western women searching for solutions

Winless women's team perseveres

Missouri Western closed the first month of the current season with a 25-point loss to Sterling - an ugly benchmark for Lauren Nolke for two reasons. Getting blown out by a NAIA school is never a healthy indicator for a MIAA basketball team. Secondly, it marked Nolke's 19th loss as a Griffon.

The Best and the Rest: Week of Dec. 15

With the MIAA season officially on a hiatus until Dec. 29, it's trip time for many of the conference's schools. And rather than rehash a limited slate of conference action last week, I'm going to devote this space to another exercise in ranking. Media guides, stadiums and uniforms step aside, it's time to rank the best trips in the MIAA basketball season - which are bookended by Missouri Southern.

Monday's Prep Sports

Monday' Prep Sports

CARL DETHRONED

Peterson will leave front office after season's final 2 games

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Carl Peterson, who turned the Kansas City Chiefs into an NFL powerhouse in the 1990s, is out after nearly 20 years as president, CEO and general manager. Clark Hunt, announcing his first major decision since he became chairman of the board upon the death two years ago of his father, Lamar, said the future of coach Herm Edwards would be decided later.

HOW EMBARRASSING: Chiefs find yet another way to lose

KANSAS CITY - The San Diego Chargers got lucky. Even better, they've got Philip Rivers. After their onside kick bounced off Chiefs wideout Dwayne Bowe's chest and Kassim Osgood recovered for San Diego, Rivers needed just four plays Sunday to complete one of the most stirring comebacks of the season.

Northwest built to make another title run

FLORENCE, Ala. - Providence offers a salve to Northwest Missouri State fans disappointed by the Bearcats fourth straight loss in the NCAA Division II national football championship: hope for a fifth straight trip.

Bearcat men lose to Mavericks

OMAHA, Neb. - The Northwest Missouri State men remain winless in conference play after a 73-64 loss to Nebraska-Omaha on Saturday at Sapp Fieldhouse.

Northwest women's shooting woes persist

OMAHA, Neb. - The Northwest Missouri State women altered their routine throughout their three-game road trip, hoping to discover a cure for the Bearcats' shooting woes.

Western still winless

HAYS, Kan - With his team in the midst of the worst start of the program's 34-year history, second-year Missouri Western women's coach Lynn Plett has yet to come up with a theory for his Griffons' inability to shoot the ball - or put a complete game together. He doesn't have to.

Saturday's area college boxes

Griffons get road win

HAYS, Kan. - Through a 2-4 start, the Missouri Western men have not started out well in the first half. Saturday night at Gross Memorial Coliseum, the Griffons bucked the trend. They led Griffon coach Tom Smith to his first win in Hays, 72-57, over Fort Hays State, as Western moved to 3-4 and 2-1 in MIAA play.

Saturday's prep boxes

Bearcat Notebook: Not much to say

Disappointment - and perhaps even a little shock - reigned in Northwest Missouri State's locker room following Saturday's 21-14 loss against Minnesota-Duluth in the NCAA Division II national championship game.

Foster-rettig stands out again

Sophomore scores TD for 2nd straight year in national title game

FLORENCE, Ala. - Sophomore Aldwin Foster-Rettig remained optimistic, no matter what the scoreboard and game clock showed. And Foster-Rettig could be a reason for continued optimism at Northwest Missouri State, even with the Bearcats licking their wounds from Saturday's 21-14 loss against Minnesota-Duluth.

Jayhawks fall to Massachusetts

KANSAS CITY - As an assistant coach at Memphis last season, Derek Kellogg watched Kansas guard Mario Chalmers take a handoff on the wing and hit a 3-pointer that sent the national championship game into overtime. Faced with a similar situation, this time as Massachusetts' head coach, Kellogg knew what was coming - and his team defended it perfectly. Tony Gaffney got a piece of Sherron Collins' final shot and Massachusetts survived a mad scramble in the closing seconds, holding off No. 25 Kansas for a 61-60 victory Saturday.

Missouri holds off Murray State

COLUMBIA, Mo. - Leo Lyons had 14 points and 12 rebounds, and Missouri shook off free throw woes at the finish, holding off Murray State 75-64 on Saturday night. Matt Lawrence added 14 points with three 3-pointers, and DeMarre Carroll had 13 points for Missouri, 6-0 at home after surviving its toughest test by far. The Tigers (8-1) have won a school-record 33 straight against nonconference opponents at Mizzou Arena, including 26 in a row under third-year coach Mike Anderson.

Coy makes decision to leave Arizona State

Johnny Coy is coming home. Citing his father's deteriorating health, Benton's former two-sport standout made the decision to transfer away from Arizona State on Wednesday night and will spend the coming weeks searching for his next destination.

Bearcats again pick wrong time to stumble

FLORENCE, Ala. - Expect nothing but the blunt truth from Northwest Missouri State defensive coordinator Scott Bostwick. "This sucks," he said while standing in the shadow of Braly Municipal Stadium's scoreboard.

Chiefs still searching for wins

Kansas City hopes to provide another lift to otherwise disappointing season

KANSAS CITY - They've brainstormed, soul-searched and studied film until their eyes turned bleary. In their quest for an answer to this perplexing mystery, they've bounced theories off each other and off the wall. Still, nobody can solve Kansas City's case of the disappearing third quarter. "In the fourth quarter, we're OK," said a frustrated head coach Herm Edwards. "It's just that one little quarter for some reason." In the last seven games, starting when their quarterback situation stabilized and they became more or less competitive, the rebuilding Chiefs (2-11) have taken the lead into halftime on four different occasions. In another game, they were tied. But they're 1-6 in those games, largely due to the fact they've been outscored in the third quarter 53-13. In the fourth quarter, the cumulative score is a reasonable 37-37 tie.

Kansas City completes Farnsworth signing

KANSAS CITY - Reliever Kyle Farnsworth and the Kansas City Royals completed a $9.25 million, two-year contract on Saturday. "Kyle Farnsworth's power arm blends in well with the rest of our bullpen," Royals general manager Dayton Moore said. "We feel his presence will impact our bullpen and make it very strong."

Fourth and short

Northwest falters in another title game

FLORENCE, Ala. - Northwest Missouri State fumbled another opportunity away in Florence. The Bearcats fumbled the ball six times - losing two of them - and quarterback Joel Osborn threw two interceptions, as Minnesota-Duluth secured a 21-14 victory and the NCAA Division II national championship on Saturday.

Yost tabbed as Missouri's new offensive coordinator

COLUMBIA, Mo. - Dave Yost, a longtime offensive assistant at Missouri, will be the Tigers' offensive coordinator next season. Yost replaces Dave Christensen, who was hired as coach at Wyoming earlier this month. Christensen will stay with the school until after the Alamo Bowl on Dec. 29 against Northwestern.

How sweet a home in Alabama?

Florence, Ala., has hosted the NCAA Division II national championship game every year since 1986. And the community does a terrific job: the athletes adore the way they're treated. They get police escorts -- shining lights, sirens and all -- pretty much everywhere they go. The town treats them to banquets and invites them into their schools to meet and act as role models to local children. Everyone in the Florence/Muscle Shoals region takes pride in treating each year's participants (and fans) like honored guests. But that doesn't mean there isn't a rumbling -- with some justification -- to move the game.

Religion in brief for Dec. 13, 2008

B-r-r-r-r-r in 'Bama

FLORENCE, Ala. -- The weather has been the big story in the two days leading up to the NCAA Division II national football championship in this southern city. The storm system that dumped snow in Houston and New Orleans this week apparently "devastated" the northern tier of Alabama as well. A second, nearly full day of rain was followed Thursday afternoon with a wintry mix that left about 1 Â½ inches of snow on the ground.

Friday's Prep Sports

Dragons claim KCI title

LATHROP, Mo. - Blocking shots isn't part of Brett Pierce's routine. Almost always the smallest player on the floor, the Mid-Buchanan junior guard relies on assists, steals and healthy doses of craftiness to make his contributions on the hardwood. But Pierce did a little bit of everything Friday night and led the Dragons to a 67-56 victory against East Buchanan in the final of the KCI Conference Tournament at Lathrop High School.

Northwest's Big Moe takes show to Alabama

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Thirty minutes before football practice, the Northwest Bearcats mill about the Lampkin Activity Center - running, lifting, watching film or getting dressed. But Moe Dampeer is missing. A search of the locker room, coaches' offices, trainer's room and indoor track doesn't turn up the junior defensive tackle - a finding noteworthy for two reasons. It's four days before the Bearcats are to play in their fourth consecutive national title game, no time to go missing from the daily preparation. And Dampeer, or Big Moe, rarely goes unnoticed at 410 pounds.

Northwest-Minnesota-Duluth scouting report

Minnesota-Duluth vs. Northwest Missouri State for the Division II national title

COMMENTARY: I didn't see this national championship matchup coming

One program is a perennial playoff contender with six national title appearances to its credit and resides in the Midwest. The other entered 2008 without a postseason victory and has a shorter drive to Canada than most of its road trips. Yet Northwest Missouri State and Minnesota-Duluth have one thing in common: I didn't expect either of them to become national finalists after watching both play during back-to-back weeks in September.

Northwest seniors ready to write final chapter

A handful of Northwest Missouri State seniors wrote the first chapter of their national championship game saga in 2005. Then there were the sequels in 2006 and 2007. Now back in Florence, Ala., for a fourth season, the Bearcats are looking to write a happier ending. They believe their past experiences in the title game might help them adjust the script in their favor. They may be three-time runners-up for Division II football's biggest prize, but the seniors believe their experience should serve them well today when the Bearcats (13-1) take on Minnesota-Duluth (14-0) at noon in Braly Municipal Stadium. The Bulldogs have never been to the title game.

Northwest Missouri State-Nebraska Omaha basketball scouting reports

Northwest Missouri State basketball at Nebraska-Omaha

Missouri Western-Fort Hays basketball scouting reports

Missouri Western basketball at Fort Hays

MDC, Quail Unlimited team up for study

Jeff Powelson graduated from college years ago, but in the next 8 months, the Missouri Department of Conservation's private lands biologist and other his peers will get an education like no other as they complete a comprehensive study of bobwhite quail and their habitat from various locations in Missouri. The project which began in early October is the first of its kind in Missouri not only because of its sheer size, but also because it is being done on private property. "(MDC) has done studies on public lands, but what about the private landowner who's actively managing their property?" Powelson said.

CDC report may shed light on venison debate

Lead in venison has been one of the hottest and most controversial topics among hunters, the firearms industry and, unfortunately, anti-hunters this past year. A new study by the United States Center for Disease Control might be just the key to getting some sound answers to this debate. Last fall, a North Dakota dermatologist sounded an alarming announcement that the venison being donated to food pantries contained lead residue from the very ammunition used to harvest the deer. His announcement unfortunately caused a hasty reaction which resulted in the removal of thousands of pounds of protein rich deer meat from the shelves of food banks across the Midwest.

New year, new concert lineup

Our New Year's resolution: Go to a January concert

Tina Phillips, manager of Record Wear House, has noticed a trend in the music industry. "Before Christmas," she says, "a lot of big concerts are booked for the next year so people will buy tickets as gifts." Lucky us. January is loaded with a bunch of huge shows, so whether you're a fan of rock, country, hip-hop or pop, you'll want to save at least one of these dates.

Back to their roots

The Nace Brothers Band provide a homegrown Missouri sound

Valandingham Nace was a classically trained violinist. His son, Percy, became a bluegrass fiddler and guitar player. Percy's son, Johnny, made a splash in Kansas City with a couple of local hits in 1968. Forty years later, David and Jimmy, the sons of Johnny Nace, are continuing the family's music legacy, playing shows from Kansas City to Key West.

A holiday partnership

The St. Joseph Community Chorus and the Fountain City Brass Band come together for annual Christmas concert

When the holidays roll around, so do holiday concerts. And they can come in the form of performances both vocal and instrumental.

Constant movement

The Faint takes total control of its ever-changing sound

Electro dance rockers The Faint broke out of the Omaha, Neb., music scene by making music that was different from other local bands. But with the release of 2001's "Danse Macabre," the band found itself lumped in with several other groups in the New Wave revival. But as synthesizer player Jacob Thiele points out, there are some key differences between The Faint and the others. "A lot of other bands were very much trying to stay true to some kind of rock thing," Thiele says. "We didn't kind of feel any loyalty to anything in particular. We just wanted to make new music."

'The Day The Earth Stood Still'

Keanu Reeves plays an emotionless alien. Wow, what a stretch.

Plenty of movies have been created where aliens visit Earth. Some have been cute and cuddly ("E.T."), and others have blown up our national landmarks ("Independence Day"). Now, brace yourselves for the scariest alien of all when our planet is invaded by... Keanu Reeves and giant balls? That's what audiences will get if they see "The Day The Earth Stood Still," a remake of the 1951 sci-fi classic that's more modern but hardly memorable.

That game we play: He's got it figured out

Have you heard about Alec Greven, the 9-year-old who just published his first book on dating? In it, he shares his tips on how to win over the ladies, gleaned from years of research on the playground - no, seriously, the playground.

The Shuffle: Finding our voice

Hip-hop megastar Kanye West has been getting a lot of attention lately. Part of it is due to his newest album "808s and Heartbreak," a polarizing record among music critics and fans thanks to West substituting his diverse music geek sampling and witty rhymes for sparse electronic beats and auto-tuned singing. But most of the attention he's received has come more from his mouth than his music.

This is: The Second Shift Band

What's in that?: Vegas Bomb at Pop's Place

Entertainment briefs for Dec. 12, 2008

Calendars for the week of Dec. 12, 2008

Thursday's Prep Sports

PREP NOTES: Gallatin catcher Strange signs with Wisconsin softball

Maggie Strange always envisioned herself on a grand stage that belied her small-town roots. But never Big 10 big. A whirlwind recruiting process reached dizzying heights for the Gallatin's all-state catcher when she received an offer from Division I Wisconsin. She wasted no time considering the offer and inked a national letter of intent with the school last month. "I wanted to get out and play ball somewhere, but I never imagined this," Strange said. "It's a dream come true."

Maryville handles Benton's pressure in come-from-behind win

The Cardinals were unable to create a much-needed turnover as Maryville came up with two critical layups during the waning seconds of Thursday's nonconference matchup at Springer Gymnasium. Maryville held on for a come-behind 48-43 win against host Benton. Maryville scored six points in the final 33 seconds, squelching Benton's frantic comeback attempt.

Northwest's Clayton hopeful he'll play in national title game

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Brandon Clayton hopes to write the comeback story of Saturday's national championship game. Clayton experienced one of those "uh-oh" moments two week ago in the NCAA Division II quarterfinals at Abilene Christian. Clayton, a senior cornerback, lay on the turf for several minutes after dislocating his right kneecap while covering on a pass play.

Calloway considers retirement

Age hits as hard as any heavyweight, and St. Joseph boxer Rob Calloway said he took his first notable blows from that adversary while in a July training camp. "I just noticed that I'd lost some speed," said Calloway, who was working out with Hasim Rahman in Arizona while the two prepared for summer bouts. "It was different than I'd ever felt. I told (wife) Robin, 'Something's just not right.'" Since then, the 39-year-old boxer hasn't won a bout.

Bearcats set to go from helmets to mortar boards

Ten Northwest players set for Florence graduation

MARYVILLE, Mo. - The choice was simple for Northwest Missouri State quarterback Joel Osborn: Win or not graduate. Well, not exactly. But Osborn unwittingly gave himself a little extra motivation in the NCAA Division II playoffs when he failed to send in his cap and gown order by the Oct. 29 deadline. By advancing to the semifinal game, Osborn and nine other Bearcats have assured themselves of a graduation ceremony - not at Bearcat Arena in Maryville, Mo., but in Florence, Ala., site of Saturday's national championship game against Minnesota-Duluth.

Graves votes against auto bailout

The U.S. House acted Wednesday night to pass a $14 billion bailout of the automobile industry, and Northwest Missouri Congressman Sam Graves remained an opponent of the government-backed handouts to struggling companies.

Rock on

Unleash your inner rock star at Legends' 'Rock Band' nights

There's a band playing in the loft at Legends every week, but the band members change pretty much after every song and the instruments they use aren't real. It's not a real band, it's "Rock Band." Legends Sports Bar has been hosting "Rock Band" gaming nights, starting at 9 p.m. every Thursday, since June. If you haven't had the experience of playing "Rock Band" before, it's kind of like video game karaoke, if karaoke singers got backup from a play drum set and guitars. And while you may be playfully booed (from those in the bar and on the screen) if you don't sing the song right, the microphone isn't only for karaoke stars.

Griffon named to All-America team

Roger Allen's Missouri Western football career might be finished, but he's still busy picking up honors for his accomplishments on the field. Allen, a senior offensive lineman from Raytown, Mo., was named to the AFCA Division II Coaches' All-America Team, which was announced Wednesday by the American Football Coaches Association.

Prep teams converge on North Central College

Any high school basketball fans looking for their fill of hoops during the holiday season need look no further than Trenton, Mo. For the fourth consecutive season, North Central Missouri College will host the High School Holiday Hoops event, which takes place during the course of five days from Dec. 22 to Dec. 31. The shootout-style tournament features 28 schools, 38 games and quickly has ballooned into the area's most popular event, much to the surprise and delight of Steve Maxey, NCMC's director of development.

Wednesdday's prep boxes

Wendesday's prep boxes

Kids get Santa. Movie stars get me.

I see them when they're sleeping...kind of like the paparazzi.

Burnsides earns CoSIDA national recognition

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Northwest Missouri State junior free safety Myles Burnsides was named the Ron Lenz Defensive Player of the Year on Tuesday by the College Sports Information Directors of America. It was the first time in Northwest history a Bearcat had earned a national player of the year award.

Bearcat spins a Web

Northwest quarterback keeps online blog for NCAA

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Fans who wanted to know what Northwest Missouri State quarterback Joel Osborn has thought about his senior season haven't needed to ask him. He's been writing about it for all to see. Now, Osborn has plenty to write about, as the Bearcats (13-1) embark on their fourth straight trip to Florence, Ala., and the national championship game against Minnesota-Duluth (14-0), scheduled for noon Saturday.

The Best and the Rest: Week of Dec. 7

Piecing together a good MIAA team is a more time-consuming process these days, Western men's coach Tom Smith argued Monday. Smith recalled the good ole days in the mid '90s when there was less competition and more players to recruit because of less-stringent academic regulations. That meant plenty of talent for Western, which posted nine 20-win seasons in the '90s.

Benton's defense smothers Savannah

Benton's aggressive defense proved to Savannah's best offense Tuesday night at Springer Gymnasium. As the Cardinals swarmed and smothered the Savages, Benton committed 14 fouls to repeatedly send Savannah to the free-throw line. The Savages scored 11 of their points from that stationary spot 15 feet from the hoop as Benton blew out Savannah 41-20.

Turnovers, fast-break buckets drive LeBlond

After coaxing a steal, Jackie Ziesel wasted no time savoring the turnover. The Bishop LeBlond sophomore took off on a dead sprint and soon saw her fast-paced efforts rewarded with a transition layup on the other end.

Maryville, Chillicothe get all-state attention

Maryville and Chillicothe garnered five selections apiece to the Missouri Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association all-state teams, released today, and both teams finished ranked No. 2 in the final poll for their respective classes. Maryville (13-2) - which finished its season with a 10-7 loss to Clark County in the Class 2 Show-Me Bowl - came in at No. 2 in Class 2 with seniors Adam Mattson (running back) and Zach Sherry (defensive line) earning first-team honors for the second straight year. Senior offensive lineman Spencer Twaddle and junior linebacker Evan Johnson were also first-team selections for the Spoofhounds.

Uprights prove a victim of Bearcats' success

Winning is getting expensive for Northwest Missouri State. After all, goalposts cost a lot to replace. Fans tore down the goalposts on Saturday night following the Bearcats' 41-7 victory against North Alabama in the NCAA Division II semifinal. It's the third straight year the've been torn down. Now, athletic director Dr. Bob Boerigter needs to dig into his general athletics budget for another $9,000 - maybe even more - to replace the goalposts again.

Tuesday's Prep Sports

The Web site that keeps on giving

Site compiles all of your favorite Christmas clips, including ones you've probably forgotten

Did you know the Cabbage Kids had their own Christmas special? Want to see a Christmas-y "Facts of Life"? Check out Betamaxmas.com.

Brownback files legislation about detainees

Sen. Sam Brownback delivered on last week's promise to file legislation that would prevent the transfer of terrorist detainees from Cuba to northeastern Kansas.

Monday's Prep Sports

Lafayette hangs on for OT victory at Benton

With a huge halftime lead on Benton's home court, Chris Neff felt a sudden wave of doubt sweep over him. Things were never this easy for his Lafayette team. Not against the Fighting Irish's crosstown rivals. "Scared to death," the coach said. "You could just feel it coming."

Question marks on agenda for Western football's offseason

The upcoming holiday movie season will feature new releases by Will Smith, Brad Pitt and Adam Sandler, but Drew Newhart plans to spend his winter break watching reruns. He has 12 films to pour over in which he is the protagonist and the enigma. No, Newhart isn't an egotist, just a quarterback trying to figure out what happened to his sophomore season. The MIAA's freshman of the year passed for 680 more yards in the sophomore campaign and completed a higher percentage of his passes. But Newhart also threw eight more interceptions (18 in 2008 compared to 10 the year before) and three fewer touchdowns (18 in 2008) as the Griffons felt fortunate just to earn a Mineral Water Bowl bid.

Chiefs focus on positive signs

KANSAS CITY - With only three games left, time is running out for the 2008 Kansas City Chiefs to avoid the dreaded "worst in franchise history" label. In the wake of Sunday's 24-17 loss at Denver, the young Chiefs (2-11) will need to win at least two of their three remaining games just to match the 4-12 record of the aging 2007 team which stands, at least so far, as Kansas City's poorest in any 16-game season. In addition, they'll need to muscle up and somehow muster eight sacks against remaining opponents San Diego, Miami and Cincinnati or go into the books as having the weakest pass rush of any NFL team ever. Eight sacks in three games seems like a longshot since they've not tackled a quarterback in four straight games.

Griffon men troubled by slow-starting offense

The Missouri Western men have finished strong this season - a trait that would be a strength if it weren't born out of necessity. On Saturday night at Emporia State, the Griffons outscored the Hornets, 52-37, in the second half. Last Wednesday, Western held a 43-29 second-half advantage against Pittsburg State. But neither second-half showing translated into a runaway victory. Western (2-4, 1-1 MIAA) pulled away from Pittsburg in the final minute thanks to free throw shooting and fell 11 points short of a comeback against Emporia. All that second-half gusto has meant little to a team that's trailed by 11, 25, 17 and 27 in the first half of its past four games, losing three of the four.

Another coaching connection for Tjeerdsma

There aren't many people in the coaching profession that Mel Tjeerdsma doesn't know. That holds true even with this weekend's opponent, Minnesota-Duluth.

Chiefs humbled in Mile High

DENVER - A month ago, Tatum Bell was hawking cell phones and wireless plans at a kiosk at the Aurora Mall. Now, he's the latest leader of the Denver Broncos' broken backfield. The Broncos finally found a way to win at home Sunday, rallying past Kansas City 24-17, but they lost their sixth tailback when bulldozing rookie Peyton Hillis went down with a strained right hamstring.

Bearcats maintain focus on title game

MARYVILLE, Mo. - There were smiles, to be sure. But while Northwest Missouri State students were tearing down the goalposts in a wild celebration at either end of Mel Tjeerdsma Field on Saturday, the players remained remarkably calm. After all, there was some unfinished business ahead of them.

Emporia blazes by Western women

EMPORIA, Kan. - For several minutes on Saturday night at White Auditorium, the Missouri Western women hung with Emporia State. Then with the score tied at 6, Emporia State's Andrea Leiker made a 3-pointer. Then a minute later, Leiker made another 3-pointer and then another and another. Leiker made seven straight 3-pointers during a span of 5:06, and the Hornets coasted to a 111-67 win against the winless Griffons.

Ichabods scorch Northwest men

Washburn's men led by as many as 19 points during the first half Saturday against visiting Northwest Missouri State on the way to an 80-59 victory at Lee Arena. "We felt like they had us on our heels the whole first half. We just never really had any answers for them," Northwest coach Steve Tappmeyer said.

Griffon men falter early

Missouri Western coach Tom Smith says that his team has played on a handicap system this season. The Griffons spot their opponent a big lead - such as the 26-point halftime lead Emporia State had Saturday night - and then the Griffons see if they can come back.

Northwest women can't find offensive footing against Washburn

The way Gene Steinmeyer sees it, his Northwest Missouri State team needs four players in double figures to be a consistent winner. The Bearcats missed that mark Saturday night in a second straight MIAA road test. Northwest couldn't find a consistent scoring option against Washburn, and the second-ranked Lady Blues buried the visiting Bearcats 67-48 at Lee Arena. On Wednesday, Northwest lost by 11 to nationally ranked Emporia State.

Hogan Prep rolls past LeBlond in Savannah tournament

SAVANNAH, Mo. - Garon Reeves hit back-to-back 3-pointers late in the second quarter to propel Hogan Prep past Bishop LeBlond and on to its third straight championship title on Saturday night in the Savannah Tournament. Hogan Prep (3-0) bombed away from beyond the arc in the first half, sinking five 3-pointers while building a 32-17 first-half lead. The Rams held LeBlond (2-1) to only three first-quarter points.

Griffon football notes

Dustin Strickler watched in disbelief as the ball sailed toward the goal posts. Despite a vicious headwind, Missouri Western's senior kicker thought he had put enough of a charge into his 35-yard attempt Saturday during the first quarter of the Mineral Water Bowl. As the ball climbed skyward, however, it lost momentum at an alarming rate and soon tumbled short of its objective - landing in the north end zone.

Bearcat football notes

Northwest Missouri State did on Saturday something that teams all season could not do against North Alabama: Win the turnover battle. With an interception by free safety Myles Burnsides and a fumble recovery by Aldwin Foster-Rettig, Northwest got an advantage in its 41-7 NCAA Division II semifinal playoff victory against the Lions.

Western stumbles in Mineral Water Bowl

EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, Mo. - Battered and bruised, Drew Newhart lifted himself from the turf one last time and stumbled to the sideline at Tiger Stadium. As the Missouri Western quarterback removed his helmet, the look of frustration and disappointment spoke silent volumes and encapsulated the prevailing attitude of his downtrodden teammates. The Griffons partially salvaged their season with yet another Mineral Water Bowl appearance but looked flat during a season-ending 37-16 loss to Augustana on Saturday afternoon.

Bearcats headed to 4th straight national championship game

MARYVILLE, Mo. - A cold, north wind on Saturday blew North Alabama right out of the Division II playoffs and Northwest Missouri State into the national championship game for the fourth straight season with a 41-7 victory. The Lions lost the opening coin toss and were forced to start against a wind they were clearly unable to manage.

Saturday's Prep Sports

Saturday's College Sports

Friday's prep sports 12-05-08

LeBlond girls find positives in setback

SAVANNAH, Mo. - This is when teams reveal their true character. Down by more than 20 points in the final quarter, Bishop LeBlond coach Wayne Miller liked what he saw. His Golden Eagles scrambled for loose balls, pressured the perimeter and tightened up their defense. Despite a runner-up finish in the Savannah Tournament finale, LeBlond had plenty of positives to take away from its 63-42 loss to a more talented Staley squad Friday night.

Savannah native keeps up strong pace at rodeo finals

LAS VEGAS - A year ago during his first trip to the National Finals Rodeo, Tyson Durfey earned a respectable $26,310 over 10 rounds of competition. In two nights at this year's grand finale at the Thomas & Mack Center on the University of Nevada at Las Vegas campus, the Savannah, Mo.-born tie-down roper has already surpassed that total.

Cardinals pull away late against Fighting Irish

Kerystn Bolton paused for four agonizing seconds. After realizing no Lafayette defenders were closing out, Benton's junior guard squared up and knocked down a 3-pointer from the top of the key 2 minutes, 19 seconds into Friday night's nonconference matchup. The Cardinals' opening points were the first of 16 unanswered. Turned out, Benton needed all of them.

GAME BLOG: Benton 47, Lafayette 24

Katie McCullough would like to think her Lafayette squad can perform better than it did Friday night in a lopsided loss to Benton. But the truth remains, McCullough still doesn't know what her squad looks like. The Fighting Irish's roster included 12 names when handed out at Springer Gymnasium, but Lafayette only had eight available players during their blowout loss.

Week 15 Pick 'em

Both local MIAA teams are in action this weekend, and both have history on their side. Northwest hasn't lost a home playoff game since 2002 when the Bearcats fell 23-12 to Northern Colorado. The Bearcats have won seven playoff games in Maryville since then, and while I certainly think North Alabama is capable or knocking off Northwest, I'm not picking against the Bearcats at home - especially after their comeback against Pittsburg State. The Bearcats always seem to find a way, at least until the title game.

Northwest football scouting report

A look at the matchup between Northwest Missouri State and North Alabama.

Mineral Water Bowl scouting report

A look at the matchups between Missouri Western and Augustana.

Missouri Western basketball scouting reports

A look at the matchups between Missouri Western and Emporia State.

Northwest basketball scouting reports

A look at the matchups between Northwest Missouri State and Washburn.

Tigers try to play spoiler

KANSAS CITY - Just one more win, that's all Missouri needed last season. Beat Oklahoma and the Tigers would play for their first national championship. They couldn't pull it off. The Sooners pulled away in the second half and won the Big 12 championship, sending Missouri to the Cotton Bowl instead of the national title game. Now, Missouri gets a rematch - with a chance to ruin Oklahoma's national championship hopes, no less.

It's all work at Mineral Water Bowl for Griffons

The Excelsior Springs' Tourism & History Web site lists 11 sights for visitors to see in the western Missouri town. They include the Paradise Playhouse, a dinner theater, the Hall of Waters, which features the world's longest mineral water bar, and the historical museum. And it so happens some of Excelsior Springs' more frequent visitors are back in town this week as Missouri Western's football team makes its third trip in the past four years to this town of 11,650 people.

Backup quarterback ignites Bearcats

MARYVILLE, Mo. - In the theater of the football stadium, few understudies have had performances to match those of Blake Bolles. He might be considered the backup to Northwest Missouri State senior Joel Osborn, but Bolles already has a significant role on this team in every game. It will be no different today, when the Bearcats take on North Alabama in an NCAA Division II semifinal at Bearcat Stadium. Northwest (12-1) faces the Lions (12-1) in a 3 p.m. game, with the winner advancing to next Saturday's national championship game in Florence, Ala.

Northwest Missourians named to Nixon transition group

Missouri Gov.-elect Jay Nixon named a couple of Northwest Missourians to serve as citizen transition advisers.

It takes two

Robidoux Resident Theatre presents a holiday classic and a holiday spoof this month

The Christmas season is a time where many stories are retold as annual traditions. And Charles Dickens' classic story "A Christmas Carol" may be one of the most beloved. But depending on who you ask, it is also a story whose constant holiday repetition may have caused the material to wear thin. "I just think some people have taken as much of 'A Christmas Carol' as you can take... and some people are hardcore and could watch it a thousand times," says Robidoux Resident Theatre business manager Jeff Haney.

Show-biz heavy metal

Lollipop Factory mixes visual glitz with aural glamour

The first thing you might notice about Lollipop Factory is their look. Singer and guitarist David Tweed can typically be found in a top and bright, knee-high socks. His partner and drummer, Bekah Manning, sports long pigtails and plays standing up.

A thread of hope

Jack's Mannequin provides a soundtrack for recovering

The summer of 2005 was a turbulent one for Andrew McMahon. The iconic frontman of Something Corporate was preparing for the debut album from his new band, Jack's Mannequin. Yes, things were looking up for McMahon until he was delivered a life-changing blow. He was diagnosed with leukemia. But his music kept him going.

The classic of all holiday classics

Kansas City Ballet presents 'The Nutcracker' at the Music Hall

As a show that requires about 130 different costumes, 400 pairs of tights, a score that is 560 pages and 800 pounds of fake snow, the prospect of putting on a production of "The Nutcracker" can be overwhelming. But the Kansas City Ballet has worked hard to make it possible.

That game we play: Meet the parents

When you're in a new relationship, there are a lot of nerve-wracking milestones. The first date. The first kiss. The first trip together. And the most nerve-wracking of them all: the first time meeting the parents. I don't think anybody is ever excited to meet the parents, or introduce their parents. Even if you're like me and have parents who are incredibly friendly and very easy to get along with (no interrogation and only mildly inappropriate family stories), it's still scary.

The Shuffle: Baby, one more time?

If you've watched a VH1 "Behind the Music" special, you there are certain narratives constantly resurfacing. Getting discovered. Achieving massive success. Succumbing to the temptations of the rock 'n' roll lifestyle (drugs, booze, sex, etc.). Rehab. And then, there's the comeback.

Eats: Any way you spell it, people love Fredrick Inn

Unless you are a longtime local or attentive to details, you might not notice that the Fredrick Inn Steak House and Lounge is spelled differently than the street it's on: Frederick Ave. The owner, Karen Evans, says it's because the spelling is the way her late husband spelled his name.

This is: "Earth's Endless Effort" by Amy Denney

What's in that: Frothy the Snowman at Foster's

Briefs for Dec. 5, 2008

Entertainment calendars for Dec. 5, 2008

Hogan Prep sets up rematch with LeBlond

SAVANNAH, Mo. - After an impressive opening-round victory over Staley, Maryville was pitted against Hogan Prep in the semifinals of the Savannah Invitational. The Spoofhounds looked overmatched from the beginning against the talented Kansas City team. But longtime coach Mike Kuwitzky wasn't disappointed with his team's 76-49 loss Thursday night at Savannah High School.

Thursday's Prep Sports

Daniel ready to make season better

COLUMBIA, Mo. - Last year, Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel was a Heisman Trophy finalist. Heading into the Big 12 championship game this weekend, his senior season hasn't been quite so special. At least not yet. The 19th-ranked Tigers have the fourth-best scoring offense (45 points per game) and passing attack (344 yards per game) in the nation heading into Saturday's game against No. 4 Oklahoma. Daniel is still playing pitch-and-catch with his receivers, evidenced by a 75 percent completion rate.

Northwest semifinal game not yet a sellout

More than 600 seats remain available for Saturday's NCAA Division II semifinal football game at Northwest Missouri State. Assistant athletic director Mark Clements said ticket sales have been slower than expected for the 3 p.m. game, which will be televised on ESPN2.

Derrick Johnson makes switch to middle LB linebacker

In an effort to both get more from an underachieving player and also shore up an important position, the Chiefs moved outside linebacker Derrick Johnson into the middle for the rest of the season, beginning with Sunday's game at Denver. Few players have been as disappointing to the 2-10 Chiefs this season as Johnson, potentially their best defensive talent. Johnson made play after play in the preseason, giving the Chiefs reason to believe he would have a big season.

12/04/08 WbNW Podcast: Northwest's Tom Pestock and Joel Osborn

News-Press sports writer R.J. Cooper sits down with Northwest guard Tom Pestock and quarterback Joel Osborn to discuss the Bearcats as underdogs, North Alabama's turnover-hungry defense and MMA fighting, among other topics, in this podcast.

Grammy nominations. B-Side predictions

Finally, the Grammys gets some things right

The nominations for the 51st Annual Grammy Awards were announced Wednesday, and the biggest acts of the year got the most props. Hip-hop superstar Lil Wayne led the way with eight nominations, followed by Brit-rockers Coldplay with seven nominations. A diverse group of artists including Kanye West, Ne-yo, Radiohead and newcomers Adele and Duffy also received multiple nods, along with music veterans like Bruce Springsteen and the duet of Robert Plant and Allison Krauss.

Skate on

Strap on a pair of blades and hit the ice

When you think of traditional winter activities, things like sledding, skiing and throwing snowballs pop into your head. What also comes to mind is strapping on a pair of skates and gliding around the ice (double toe loops and triple salchows optional). Ice skating is one of the most popular winter activities. April Wyatt, Bode Sports Complex manager, says the Bode Ice Arena averaged about 80,000 people last winter season.

College sports 12-03-08

Tuesday's prep sports 12-03-08

Henry's big day can't carry Bearcat men

EMPORIA, Kan. - Hunter Henry called it an MIAA wakeup. Midway through the second half, the Bearcats looked like their alarm clocks were ringing in their heads. The glassy-eyed Bearcats witnessed a little White Auditorium magic in a 79-56 loss to Emporia State in the MIAA opener Tuesday. Emporia led by just five at halftime, 34-29. But the Hornets opened the second half on an 11-0 run and then went on another 17-2 run to extend their lead to 62-37.

Cold spells doom Western women

The Missouri Western women debuted "Gone in 360 Seconds" on Wednesday night. Instead of cars, the Griffons made a 14-point lead disappear in that time span, replacing it with a two-possession deficit by halftime. Western only briefly recovered the lead in a 74-67 loss at MWSU Fieldhouse to Pittsburg State in the MIAA opener for both teams. The Griffons (0-5, 0-1 MIAA) shook off a

Offensive woes cost Bearcat women

EMPORIA, Kan. - Turnovers, bricks and air balls, oh my. It was an ugly first half on Tuesday night at White Auditorium. Northwest Missouri State had 13 turnovers, did not score for the first 6 minutes, 47 seconds and shot 21.2 percent, thanks to poor shot selection and quick shots. "It was pretty poor shooting," Northwest Missouri guard Amber Vandevender said.

Western men show off toughness in MIAA opener

An official box score statistic for charges taken doesn't exist in the MIAA, and the Missouri Western men's team gave varying estimates of how many the Griffons took during last year's dismal season. "One, and I think I remember it," coach Tom Smith said. "Four all season, maybe," senior guard Lonnel Johnson countered. Either way, it's been a long time since the Griffons withstood an opponent's charge like they did Wednesday at the MWSU Fieldhouse. Quentin Nolbin stood tall in the lane as Pittsburg State's Spencer Magaba bowled over the Western forward with 53 seconds left, earning the charge, the ball and an MIAA season-opening victory over Pittsburg State, 86-75.

Tuesday's Local College Sports

LeBlond boys start strong

SAVANNAH, Mo. - Bishop LeBlond's opening round game of the Savannah Invitational was against Staley's junior-varsity team on Tuesday night. But being matched up against a JV team didn't mean the Eagles felt like they got a break going into their first game of the season. The Falcons were asked to bring their second team to fill the remaining hole in the eight-team bracket.

Tuesday's Prep Sports

Vitale gives Baptist an ESPN shout out

The anticlimactic end to Tuesday's Duke-Purdue game on ESPN provided at least one surprise - Dick Vitale devoting 30 seconds of down time to Southwest Baptist. While Duke attempted some meaningless free throws in the final two minutes, Vitale started talking about upsets, saying "Kids don't focus. I mean Southwest Baptist College beat Utah. You should see all the mail I got. I got their PR department. I know more about Bolivar, Mo., than I ever knew. Sharita (I had a hard time making this word out despite three rewinds on the DVR) and all of those people, the coach's wife, I got all kinds of letters. And you know what? They deserve it. They did a great job in getting that win over Utah."

The Best and the Rest Hoops Style: Week of Dec. 1

Two things have troubled me this week. The first has been how to include the leftover turkey in yet another meal. After sandwiches, omelettes, grilled cheese and soup, I'm running out of ideas, and the turkey still lurks in my fridge like the olive oil that burned for eight days, spawning Hanukkah.

Missouri Western scouting reports

Pittsburg State at Missouri Western

Northwest basketball scouting reports

Bearcats at Emporia State

Benton's Switzer commits to Jewell

While on the court, Holly Switzer knows better than to pass up a good shot. After all, the Benton senior has knocked down hundreds of opportunities during her lengthy Cardinal career. On Monday, Switzer used that same logic when she signed a letter of intent to continue her basketball career at William Jewell College - where she received a full-ride academic scholarship.

Northwest defensive back suffers untimely injury

Football is a game of emotion, and few got as emotional as Northwest Missouri State defensive coordinator Scott Bostwick on Saturday during the waning moments of the Bearcats' NCAA Division II quarterfinal playoff game at Abilene Christian. With 1 minute, 38 seconds remaining, senior cornerback Brandon Clayton went to the turf after pass coverage. Clayton prevented a completion, but he didn't get up after dislocating his kneecap.

Osborn says pressure's off Bearcats

Playoffs are a pressure-packed time. But Northwest Missouri State quarterback Joel Osborn said Tuesday he doesn't feel that much pressure as the Bearcats prepare for their NCAA Division II semifinal game against North Alabama, a contest that could vault them into the national championship game for a fourth straight season. The way Osborn figures it, much of the pressure dissipated on a fourth-down conversion two weeks earlier in the second round against Pittsburg State.

Western volleyball coach resigns

Tiffany Mastin resigned as Missouri Western's volleyball coach last week - an announcement the university made Tuesday. After spending two years learning the grass wasn't greener in St. Joseph, Mastin is ready to return to the way it was, coaching at a small, private college. Mastin came from Oakland City (Ind.) University where her team advanced to the National Christian College Association's national tournament in 2006.

Western teams' expectations far from lofty after combined 1-7 start

Consistency is the buzz word, competitiveness the goal and uncertainty the norm.

Griffons look to score from perimeter

In Lynn Plett's offense, 20-foot shots might be preferable to two-foot attempts.

After rare win, Chiefs worry about overconfidence

KANSAS CITY - Since the Kansas City Chiefs so rarely win, it's easy to remember what happened next.

Monday's prep boxes

Mead making strides on the hardwood

Andrew Mead will be back on the football field this week as Western prepares for the Mineral Water Bowl, but it's his play at Rockhurst last weekend that is noteworthy. Mead, a junior wide receiver who is playing basketball for the first time this season as well, had eight points and nine rebounds in 19 minutes of action Saturday - pretty fair for a guy who hadn't played hoops competitively since high school.

Talent helps lead commission studying terrorism

Former Missouri Sen. Jim Talent finds himself back in the national limelight this week as a leading player in a study that predicts at least one sweeping act of terrorism in the next five years.

Stories for December 2008

Wednesday, December 31

A random compilation of my favorite things

Older artists and new divas battle for pop prizes

Tuesday, December 30

Monday, December 29

But Western can't finish off No. 2 Wasbhurn

Sunday, December 28

Saturday, December 27

Friday, December 26

The blues-alternative Mickey Finn Band links authentic songs with covers

'The Tsar and the President' on exhibit at Union Station

BR549 frontman Chuck Mead keeps the ride going as a solo artist

Wednesday, December 24

Chiefs hope to avoid ignominious fate of pass-rush futility

Some Christmas tidbits to get you in the holiday spirit

Tuesday, December 23

Illinois makes it nearly a decade of dominance in Braggin' Rights game

Monday, December 22

Tricky stretch of MIAA tilts await Griffons next week

Sunday, December 21

Saturday, December 20

News-Press coach of the year

News-Press defensive player of the year

All News-Press offensive player of the year

Friday, December 19

The Saint Joseph Symphony presents its annual Yuletide Pops concert this weekend

IT brings its own movie-themed brand of rock to The Rendezvous

Chloe Day packed up for California and then picked up a guitar

Could this be Jim Carrey's return to greatness?

Exhibit takes a look at personal responsibility to the environment

Thursday, December 18

St. Joseph prep hoops teams heading to Civic

For this Irish entertainer, music is his addiction

Wednesday, December 17

Tuesday, December 16

Winless women's team perseveres

Monday, December 15

Peterson will leave front office after season's final 2 games

Sunday, December 14