Randolph County briefs: Friess collecting toys for families in need

State Rep. David Friess, a Red Bud Republican, is holding a Share-A-Toy Donation Drive to benefit families in need this Christmas. Toys for infants through high school age should be new or unused, preferably wrapped. Donations will be delivered by Dec. 15 to House of Neighborly Service in Waterloo, and a Red Bud Community Family Sponsor.

"Christmas is a time for joy and cheer, and that's what I want to help bring to families of the 116th District," Friess said. "We all have memories of waking up on Christmas morning and seeing the presents from Santa. With this drive, we can ensure more children have a memorable Christmas. So please join me and help spread a little holiday cheer!"

To participate, drop off donations at his office, 143 S. Main St. in Red Bud from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call (618) 282-7284.

<b>Drop off letters to Santa at city hall</b>

Kids are invited to drop off their letters to Santa in a North Pole Express mailbox in front of city hall. Letters must be received by noon Wednesday, Dec. 15, in order to give Santa time to write back to each child. Parents are asked to help Santa out and fill out the parent info sheet available at city hall. For details, call (618) 826-1430 or email chesterrecreation@chesterill.com.

<b>Service to honor mission's ancestry</b>

Immaculate Conception Church, 205 First St., in Kaskaskia, will hold a service honoring the French and Indian traditions of the church at 3:30 p.m. Dec. 11. The event honors the Dec. 8, 1675, founding of the Mission of the Immaculate Conception by Father Marquette. The service will include a procession of lilies to honor Mary, hymns in the Algonquin language and a Mass.

Immaculate Conception Church also will be open as part of the Perry County Country Church Christmas Tour Dec. 16 and 17. Visitors are welcome to stop in anytime between 2 to 8 p.m. to tour the church.