St. Louis sues the state to clarify who appoints the next sheriff. Also in today’s headlines: the 100 Neediest Cases campaign opens, a toy drive marks 10 years, BioGenerator boosts biotech investment, frigid weather sparks fire safety concerns, and final performances of 'The Wiz' at the Fox.

MAIN STORY

St. Louis Sues Over Sheriff Appointment

The city of St. Louis filed a lawsuit Friday in Cole County Circuit Court, seeking a judicial ruling that Mayor Cara Spencer has exclusive authority to appoint the city’s sheriff.

This legal move follows the recent civil trial to remove Sheriff Alfred Montgomery, with a verdict still pending. The suit seeks to clarify who is authorized to appoint a replacement in the event of a vacancy. Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway has argued that the governor should make the appointment, while Governor Mike Kehoe indicated willingness to work with Spencer if needed. Mayor Spencer called the rules a “complicated web of regulations.” The Board of Aldermen, which filled a sheriff vacancy over 40 years ago, has expressed concern about being left out of the current process.

The court’s decision could set a precedent for future municipal appointments in St. Louis. For more, see original coverage.

AROUND TOWN

BioGenerator announced plans to increase investment in St. Louis biotech startups significantly. The organization, a local life sciences startup accelerator, revealed Tuesday it will "quadruple down" on regional biotech ventures, aiming to expand both funding and support in 2024 and beyond. According to BioGenerator leaders, this move could substantially boost the city's innovation ecosystem, attracting additional investment and talent. For more details on BioGenerator’s vision for St. Louis biotech, read the full article here.

A fire destroyed a century-old South St. Louis building, highlighting the region’s homelessness crisis. Matt Horn, owner of Seal Tight Masonry, lost his family’s longtime property this week, derailing plans for State Street Mercantile, a new cafe and boutique. Officials believe the blaze began as unhoused people tried to keep warm—a pattern seen from Lincoln County to East St. Louis during frigid weather. City leaders note temporary shelters help, but emphasize the need for broader affordable housing solutions. Read more about the region’s response to housing and shelter issues.

The Broadway musical “The Wiz” wraps up its national tour stop at The Fabulous Fox this weekend. The production, featuring St. Louis native Robert Crenshaw as a swing, brings together classic and modern musical styles, inspiring diverse audiences and celebrating Black excellence. Cast members highlighted the show's uplifting themes and community impact. Tickets remain available for the final performances; see show and ticket information for details.

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100 Neediest Cases Campaign Opens

The United Way of Greater St. Louis has launched its annual 100 Neediest Cases campaign, connecting donors with almost 5,000 families facing financial hardship during the holidays. Last year, $1.7 million in donations helped 11,700 people across the region.

This year, about 8% of families reported that the May 16 tornado directly impacted their needs, adding to the ongoing struggles of low-income households. All contributions go directly to families; more information is available at 100neediestcases.org. Read more in the full story.

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Toy Drive Marks 10th Year

St. Louis advocate Billy Ratliff, known as “Frost Money,” celebrates the 10th year of his Christmas Toy Drive Extravaganza benefiting the Salvation Army and Children’s Hospital. The annual toy drive concert will take place on Friday, December 19.

This year’s event partners with the M.E.T. Foundation and features performances from local musicians. All concert proceeds and toys will support families in need. Ratliff, inspired by his childhood experiences, aims to collect more toys than ever. For tickets or donation details, visit the official toy drive page.

QUICK HITS

Centennial Christian Church will demolish its tornado-damaged building at 4950 Fountain Avenue but vows to continue serving the north St. Louis community through ministries, partnerships, and plans for a large-scale redevelopment project focused on hunger, housing, and healing.

Christian Brothers College High School (CBC) features a roster rich in experience and talent as it prepares to challenge Missouri’s top Class 4 wrestling programs this season.

St. Louis city officials plan to replant thousands of trees lost to a tornado six months ago, aiming to restore and revamp the urban landscape.

Arctic air is expected to bring single-digit temperatures, below-zero wind chills, and a slight chance of precipitation to St. Louis by the end of the week and into the weekend.

Washington University women’s soccer team secured the Division III national championship with a 3-0 victory over William Smith on Dec. 8, 2024, in Las Vegas.