Total Information AM Weekend

Scott Jagow and Michael Kelley dive into a range of compelling topics, from Missouri politics to global issues. Kelley, a Democrat, shares his support for Republican Mike Kehoe as Missouri's new governor, highlighting Kehoe's potential impact on the St. Louis region. They also discuss President Trump's potential second term, with Kelley expressing skepticism about Trump's ability to fulfill big promises like tax-free tips and immediate war resolution. The conversation shifts to climate change, where Kelley praises Elon Musk and the electric vehicle industry's role in addressing the crisis while cautioning against Musk's expanding political influence.

Eagle season officially kicks off today with the free Annual Alton Eagle Ice Festival. Debbie Monterrey talks to Cory Job of Great Rivers and Routes Tourism.

Johnny Rabbit takes a nostalgic journey through St. Louis's past, using matchbooks to recount stories of iconic establishments. From the Chase Hotel's late-night broadcasts to the Rice Bowl Shangri-La's Chinese cuisine and the Peach Garden's inclusive dining, each memory captures the city’s rich history. Highlights include the Sports Bowl's transformation, Miss Hollings's cafeterias, and Jerry's Italian restaurant. Johnny also previews a New Year's Day special on KMOX, featuring uplifting messages and hope for 2025.

This episode previews the upcoming Musial Awards on CBS, featuring Bob Costas receiving a lifetime achievement award and an interview with Billy Crystal. The NFL playoff picture is analyzed, including the Bengals' slim chances, the dominance of the Bills and Chiefs, and NFC favorites like the Packers and Eagles. College football playoff matchups, including Texas vs. Arizona State and Ohio State vs. Oregon, are discussed. Plus, details on the St. Louis Cardinals' Winter Warm-Up event, happening during Martin Luther King Jr. weekend at Busch Stadium and the Missouri Athletic Club.

Scott Jagow delves into the fascinating world of national anthems and their role in shaping national identity. From the U.S. "Star Spangled Banner," inspired by a British drinking song, to Japan's ancient "Kimigayo" lyrics, and Mexico's anthem born from a contest, each story highlights unique cultural roots. Discover surprising trivia, including Greece's 158-stanza anthem, Uruguay's six-minute version, and St. Helena's unofficial anthem by an American DJ. A captivating reflection on the power of music in defining nations.

The year 2024 brought high inflation, soaring interest rates, and affordability challenges for consumers, with the Federal Reserve cutting rates for the first time in four years. The housing market struggled with high mortgage rates, while investors celebrated double-digit stock returns amid hopes of policy changes under a second Trump administration. Politically, a Trump rally in Pennsylvania led to Secret Service changes, and immigration debates intensified over a promised deportation program. In space, SpaceX thrived, while Boeing's Starliner faced hurdles, shaping a year of economic, political, and technological transformation.

Scott Jagow and Stuart McMillian dive into the importance of everyday manners, from the "shopping cart theory" to dishwasher etiquette. They explore acts of common courtesy, like holding doors open and navigating stop signs, and discuss how upbringing shapes our behavior. A thoughtful and relatable discussion on why manners make a difference.

In this "Week in Health" segment, Fred Bodimer delves into key health topics making headlines. A severe H5N1 bird flu case in Louisiana raises concerns about a potential pandemic. A massive data breach at Ascension healthcare has compromised sensitive information of nearly 6 million people. U.S. life expectancy sees an increase to 78.5 years, thanks to declining death rates from major causes. Research challenges the effectiveness of Vitamin D and calcium supplements in preventing falls and fractures in seniors. Elevated levels of "forever chemicals" in smart watch wristbands spark safety recommendations.

Fred Bodimer explores significant stories in religion this week. The Crown of Thorns relic has returned to Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, marking a milestone in restoration efforts. A rare stone tablet inscribed with the 10 Commandments in Hebrew was sold at auction, highlighting its historic and cultural value. Pope Francis revealed the harrowing details of intercepted suicide bombers during his 2021 trip to Iraq and visited the French island of Corsica on a one-day spiritual mission.