MURPHYSBORO, IL (KFVS) - Murphysboro Hometown Christmas is accepting applications for the annual Gingerbread House competition.

Starting Nov. 1 and running through Dec. 4 applications will be accepted along with an entry fee of $5 per individual or $10 per business. This is a fun event is a fundraiser for the Murphysboro Youth and Recreation Center. Applications and entry fee should be dropped off at the Murphysboro Youth and Rec. Center; 1818 Walnut Street; Murphysboro.

The contestant’s houses will be judged on Dec. 8 with a public viewing available for the sugary concoctions at the MYRC from the 8th to the 10th with an awards presentation Dec. 8 at 3 p.m.     

There will be several categories based on age and groups.

CARBONDALE, IL (KFVS) - The Carbondale Police Department is looking for volunteers.

On Wednesday, Oct. 31, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. the police department will be sponsoring a Halloween safety patrol called "Pumpkin Patrol."

Volunteers wearing orange safety vests and driving vehicles bearing the "Pumpkin Patrol" logo will be patrolling areas of the community where kids go to "trick-or-treat". Police say although they strongly encourage adults to accompany children, the volunteers will identify potential hazards to children and provide a place where children can turn if they feel threatened.

The department has sponsored the Pumpkin Patrol since 1992.

If you are interested in being on the "Pumpkin Patrol" contact Sergeant Amber Goddard at 457-3200, Extension 465.

MURPHYSBORO, IL (KFVS) - Young people ages 13 to 17 are invited to apply for a spot at the Youth Talent Show at the Historic Liberty Theater in downtown Murphysboro.

The show is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 27 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Theater Director Lois Murphy says anyone interested should get the full details now.

Guitar players, dancers, singing groups, skitters, ventriloquists and clowns or any other entertaining skill will have his or her chance to hit the boards.

The Historic Liberty Theater, now on the National Registry of Historic Sites, continues to offer everything from classic films, live music and plays, gospel artists, to space for public meetings and rentals.

For more information or to preregister for the Youth Talent Show, you can contact Lois Murphy, director, at 618-684-5880.