Caleb Jones

About 73% of people in the United States plan to celebrate Halloween this year, according to national retail estimates. Total spending on the holiday is expected to surpass $13 billion. Candy remains one of the biggest categories, with sales projected to reach nearly $4 billion. Decorations are close behind at an estimated $4.2 billion, while costumes are expected to bring in around $4.3 billion. Even Halloween greeting cards are holding strong, adding about $700 million in sales nationwide.

Maryville Parks and Recreation Director Jeff Stubblefield has announced his retirement after seven years of service to the community. His last day with the department will be in March 2026.

The East Hills Library is inviting residents to learn how they can make St. Joseph a more welcoming place for birds. The event, held Saturday, Nov. 1, will feature a presentation from Kaylee Woelfel with the Missouri River Bird Observatory, who will discuss ways to support bird populations year-round and help create safer environments for local species.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is inviting the public to take part in a virtual program tonight, Oct. 28, focused on one of the state’s most fascinating — and misunderstood — creatures: bats.

The Big Muddy Duck Hunt, an annual Mound City tradition dating back to 2012, returns Saturday for a full day of outdoor activities and education for waterfowl enthusiasts.

According to the University of Missouri Extension, planting in the fall offers several benefits, including reduced stress on young trees, increased soil moisture, stronger root growth, and a lower risk of pests and disease.

No Kings Marches are scheduled across the country Saturday, including several rallies in northwest Missouri. Persisterhood, an activist group based in St. Joseph, is organizing the local events. Skidmore resident and political organizer Nancy Zeliff began working with the No Kings movement earlier this year.

The Missouri Department of Conservation will welcome visitors to the 39th annual Fall Driving Tour at the Poosey Conservation Area near Chillicothe on Sunday, Oct. 19, from noon to 4 p.m.

The Missouri Department of Conservation and partners invite you to the annual HOWLoween at the Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center in Kansas City. Visitors can take a Wildside Walk through the native plant garden and look at displays of nocturnal wildlife, and participate in activity stations along the way. Local community groups will have table displays and treats on offer. You can catch HOWLoween Saturday, October 18th, at 5 to 8 p.m.

The Missouri Department of Transportation is reminding drivers to be alert for deer on the move as shorter days and earlier evenings arrive.