Governor's Cup

Friday night the St. Louis Rams and Kansas City Chiefs met for the annual Governor's Cup preseason game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. Behind former No. 1 draft pick quarterback Sam Bradford, the Rams defeated their cross-state rivals 14-10.

This was the 42nd annual contest, one that dates back to exhibition and regular season games between the Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals football team (1968-1987) before the Rams came to St. Louis and resumed the rivalry in 1996.

While the contest is always an opportunity for fans of each team to claim bragging rights, this year's game carried a greater significance with the focus on the devastating tornado that ripped through Joplin in May.

Throughout the game first responders and volunteers were recognized with both on-field ceremonies and video presentations. Fans in attendance had an opportunity to donate to the Joplin Recovery Fund and the Joplin Relief Fund.

Hats off to the Chiefs and Rams for a great contest. And thanks to all the fans, as well as both teams, for their support of Joplin and its rebuilding efforts.