Good morning, Jefferson City.

The Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign is underway with bell ringers energizing Hy-Vee as donations work toward a $410,000 goal.

A Mascot Ring-Off will take place Saturday at Walmart on Stadium from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. & is meant to spark further holiday giving.

Missouri American Water began demolishing a water tower on West Main and Brooks Streets on Monday, Dec.

8. The tower (from the 1890s) no longer served a need after new water filtration units came online and demolition continues this week.

Lincoln University Cooperative Extension launched a project to collect local farmer feedback on uncertain weather — the initiative uses workshops and mobile farm visits to help growers adopt soil-building practices for better resilience.

The project will guide local farmers as weather becomes more unpredictable.

At its Wednesday night meeting, the board accepted President Erika Leonard's resignation and opened the vacancy.

Applicants may submit forms at 315 East Dunklin St. (district office) on Dec. 11-12, 15-18, 19, 30, and Jan. 5-7; the new member will serve until April 2027.

Helias Catholic High School graduate and seminarian Shane Klietjermes met Pope Leo XIV during the weekly General Audience at Mundelein Seminary on Thursday, Dec.

11. He presented the Pope with a Mundelein jersey, marking a proud moment for his local community.

Missouri and the US Department of Education agreed this week to speed up the SAVE plan phaseout affecting seven million borrowers, including Mizzou students, with a new income-driven repayment plan set to begin next year & borrowers urged to check the Federal Student Aid Loan Simulator for payment details.

Starting next year, USDA will approve Missouri’s request to restrict SNAP benefits, meaning food stamps will no longer cover snacks like candy, chips or cookies.

Households may need to focus on essential groceries.

Family Storytime: A World of Colorful Animals

10:30-11:30 a.m. — Missouri River Regional Library — Free admission — Enjoy engaging stories, music, crafts, and activities for all ages.

Genealogy Help Sessions

1-4 p.m. — Missouri River Regional Library — Free entry — Join genealogist Laura Loyborg for lessons, Q&A, and personalized research assistance.

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, The Musical!

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Capital City Productions — Check for ticket prices — Enjoy a heartwarming musical experience with festive food and entertainment.

The Nutcracker 2025

7-9 p.m. — Miller Performing Arts Center — Tickets available — Experience the beloved holiday classic as local dancers bring magic to the stage.

Breakthrough Basketball Skills Camp

Dec 22-23 — The Linc — $97 for observing coaches — Enhance scoring and ball handling skills at this youth basketball camp aimed at grades 3-8.

MRRL/American Red Cross Blood Drive

10 AM – 2 PM — Missouri River Regional Library — Free t-shirt and book with donation — Give the gift of life and help those in need.

Happy HOWLidays Celebration

8 AM – 3 PM — Runge Nature Center — Family-friendly activities — Explore animal sounds and engage in wild holiday fun.

Sunday Blues Jam at The Mission

3-7 p.m. — The Mission — No cover — Enjoy a lively blues jam hosted by the homegrown band The Missionaries.

Wildlife: Fireside Stories

10-11 a.m. — Runge Nature Center — Free entry — Experience enchanting winter stories in a cozy outdoor setting while sipping hot beverages.

Family Movie Matinee: Lilo & Stitch

2-4 p.m. — Osage County Branch, Missouri River Regional Library — Free entry — Enjoy a heartwarming animated movie with snacks and drinks provided during your holiday break.