Micah Stolley

While many children eagerly await Christmas morning, others are simply hoping someone will think of them. Catholic Charities’ Shining Star program in St. Joseph and Kansas City is calling on the community to help brighten the holidays for local families in need.

From the effects of radiation poisoning to hiding something from your parents, written stories can range from a variety of different topics. The Visiting Writers Series shows just how different stories can be. The most recent Visiting Writer Series Nov. 13 welcomed Jennifer Murvin, a graphic essay writer and associate professor of Creative Writing at Missouri State University, and Michael Czyzniejewski, head of the Creative Writing program and professor at Missouri State, and a flash fiction writer. At the event, the two writers read a short piece of each of their works.

Two of St. Joseph’s primary local news outlets are joining forces in a move reflecting a national trend of consolidation among local media.

The University of Missouri’s Keep Your Keys program, which helps older adults stay safe and confident behind the wheel, has expanded its reach statewide. The program, launched in Columbia in 2015, offers a 35-minute driver safety presentation designed for adults over 55, as well as caregivers and health educators. It provides tips on evaluating driving abilities, creating a plan for staying social and mobile, and preparing for eventual “driving retirement” by finding alternative transportation options.

Diane Houston, who led the Maryville Public Library for 30 years and helped expand its services and space, is being remembered for her lasting contributions to the community following her passing.

Tuesday, Oct. 22 marked a brisk afternoon in downtown Maryville. People gathered along the sidewalk across from the Courthouse Square, browsing vendors and chatting with neighbors at the annual 'For the Girls' event, hosted to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month and allow women to book mammograms and discuss the disease. This is the fourth year the event has been held.

The Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority has announced two grant programs to support dairy and beef producers across the state.

Hy-Vee has announced that the medications Ozempic and Wegovy are now available for $499 per month at its pharmacy locations across the Midwest — about half their previous cost.

Northwest Missouri State University theater students will present They Promised Her the Moon Oct. 9–12 in the Studio Theater at the Ron Houston Performing Arts Center.

Area business owners turned out to discuss Artificial Intelligence at a Sept. 24 event at the Maryville Public Library.