Although scientific studies have declared the poinsettia harmless, the plant still has a questionable reputation regarding its safety, said a University of Missouri Extension horticulturist. . .
 

Ste. Genevieve's monthly Art Walk is scheduled for the third Friday, December 17 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., due to the holiday schedule.  

The Jefferson College Foundation has begun its Viking Fund drive for 2010-11 in an effort to help deserving students improve their quality of life with a high-quality college education, despite facing critical circumstances due to the economic weakness of the region and nation. . .

The St. Louis Area Chapter of the American Red Cross has launched its holiday giving campaign with a gift catalog full of gifts for individuals in need.  Gifts start at $18 to provide three blankets for disaster victims and range up to $2,000 to sponsor a meal truck that will deliver 200 meals to shelter sites.  Right in the middle, $1,000 will provide a whole class with CPR training.  The campaign follows a national survey showing that despite the economic downturn,  people remain committed to digging deep into their pockets to support charitable causes this holiday season even as they cut back more on other holiday activities. . .

The first session in a series of workshops for those interested in marketing products at farmer’s markets will be held on December 7th at 6:30 pm at St. Andrews Church, 1004 Rock Rd. in De Soto.  The workshop, entitled “Growing Apples and Peaches in Jefferson County”, will help growers. . .