Briefly

Story-Thon to be held at Rose Theatre lobby

Phi Kappa Phi's Born to Read project and University Studies First Year Experience classes at Southeast Missouri State University are hosting a Story-Thon from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at the Rose Theatre lobby at the university. More than 85 story readers will share their favorite children's stories for ages 5 to 8. All ages are welcome. At 2 p.m. Jim Riley will read from his new, soon-to-be released children's book "Dog Town." Admission is free.

Tickets still available for Empty Bowls fundraiser

Tickets are still available for Sunday's Empty Bowls fundraiser event. Empty Bowls is a project that raises funds for local food pantries by encouraging artists and community members to create clay bowls that are then used for a soup meal. Money from tickets sold goes to support food pantries. The dinner will be from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Salvation Army in Cape Girardeau. Tickets will be available at the door.

-- From staff reports