Good morning, Olathe.

The Johnson County Christmas Bureau is facing a $30,000 shortfall (with 20,000 fewer canned goods and 1,000 fewer cereal boxes donated than last year), pausing new applications as it serves 13,000 people.

Donations will be accepted through Saturday, Dec. 13 at its holiday shop at 6496 Quivira Road in Shawnee.

Shawnee Mission East High School golfer Ella Slicker received the Kenneth Smith Award last week for outstanding golf, academic achievement and community service — including four state championships and an undefeated freshman season that made Kansas 6A history while she co-founded a charitable flag football tournament.

Homeowners are urged to prepare for winter weather by contacting insurance and mortgage companies and keeping digital records for repairs.

The guide advises reviewing policies and endorsing checks to reduce storm damage delays.

Olathe officials plan to build a permanent farmers market on the old post office site at Chestnut and Park and will start hosting up to 50 vendors on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings from mid-April through November — if the post office relocates as outlined in the downtown revitalization plan.

The Johnson County Department of Health and Environment advises shoppers to balance their carts using the Diabetes Plate Method (1/2 non-starchy vegetables, 1/4 carbohydrates, and 1/4 protein) to manage blood sugar levels.

Shoppers are encouraged to plan lists, compare costs, and try new ingredients for healthier meals.

Johnson County Mental Health Center earned an additional three-year accreditation from CARF International in September.

The accreditation extends through 2028 and underscores its commitment to high-quality behavioral health care for Johnson County residents.

As colder air arrives, local residents are urged to schedule annual chimney inspections and cleaning to keep their fireplaces safe (the Chimney Safety Institute of America advises these checks to prevent fire hazards and carbon monoxide risks).

This past weekend, the World Cup committee revealed which countries will join the Kansas City area for a month-long summer 2026 event, and Olathe event planners are preparing to benefit from 600,000 expected tourists (with KC hosting six matches).

The update was shared at a June 11 conference.

Breakfast with 'The Cold Sisters'

9 a.m.-12 p.m. — KC Pumpkin Patch — $20 per ticket — Enjoy a festive breakfast with pancakes, princess sightings, and holiday cheer.

Dickens Carolers in Concert

7:30 p.m. — Chestnut Fine Arts Center — Adults: $32, Seniors: $29 — Experience the heavenly voices of Kansas City's premiere professional Christmas carolers in a festive holiday concert.

Kansas City Boat and Fishing Show

12 PM – 4 PM — Bartle Hall — $13.75 adults, free for children under 16 — Discover an extensive range of boats and fishing gear with expert tips and family-friendly activities.