Saturday, January 10, 2026: A Garden Gala and the Watch for Public Health

Today in St. Joseph, the city is dressed in its finest for a century-old tradition, even as health officials and community activists prepare for a weekend of vigilance. From the formal ballrooms of the Civic Arena to the quiet concern of regional hospitals, the news today reflects a community that celebrates its success while remaining acutely aware of its challenges.

An Evening of Elegance: The 106th Annual Banquet

The marquee event of the weekend is undoubtedly taking place tonight at the St. Joseph Civic Arena. The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 106th Annual Banquet, themed “An Evening of Elegance: A Garden Gala.” This gathering is more than just a formal dinner; it is the primary venue where the city’s business leaders celebrate the previous year’s milestones and hand out the prestigious “Small Business of the Year” and “Community Service” awards. For a city that prides itself on its local economy, tonight represents the official kickoff of the 2026 professional calendar. (saintjoseph.com)

Public Health: A Sharp Rise in Winter Illness

Beneath the weekend festivities, there is a growing concern for regional health. The St. Joseph Post reports that flu cases are rising sharply, with area residents being strongly encouraged to take immediate precautions. This local spike mirrors a broader trend in the region; data from Kansas City shows that flu cases there doubled in just a single week. Health officials are reminding the community that while the new year brings a fresh start, the winter virus season is currently at its peak. (stjosephpost.com)

Activism and Civic Dialogue

The weekend also brings voices of protest and advocacy to the streets:

• “ICE Out for Good”: A local protest is scheduled for Sunday in St. Joseph. According to the St. Joseph Post, the event aims to bring attention to immigration enforcement policies, reflecting a local chapter of a national dialogue. (stjosephpost.com)

• Medicaid and the General Assembly: As the Missouri General Assembly settles into its 2026 session, local leaders are keeping a close eye on a “wish list” for the region. A primary focus, as noted by The Beacon, involves streamlining the processing of expanded Medicaid work requirements, a policy shift that will have direct implications for many St. Joseph families following the 2026 midterms. (thebeaconnews.org)

Community and Culture

• Royal Tea and Soul Food: The local cultural calendar is full of diverse offerings. The Ruby Theatre is hosting a “Royal Princess Tea Party” for area families this afternoon, while the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion has announced it will host a soul food buffet on MLK Day to honor the legacy of Dr. King. (stjosephpost.com)

• Board Game Day: For those looking for a low-key Saturday, Hazel’s Downtown is hosting its “Board Game Day” until 2:00 PM. It is a simple, connective event that brings together players of all ages, embodying the “connective” spirit of our community. (stjomo.com)

Traffic and Safety Alert

Commuters should be aware of a major traffic disruption. St. Joseph Post reports that Southbound I-29 was closed earlier today following a serious vehicle crash north of St. Joseph. Drivers are urged to seek alternate routes and remain patient as emergency crews work in the winter conditions. (stjosephpost.com)