Jon K. Rust
Jon K. Rust is publisher of the Southeast Missourian and president of Rust Communications.
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An important announcement about newspaper delivery (9/17/22)One of my first jobs was carrying the local newspaper. In my case: The Bulletin Journal. It was a great experience, which taught the importance of perseverance, punctuality, customer service and the reward of good, honest effort. Times change, though, and child carriers disappeared from the economic landscape in the United States for many reasons, not least being the concern of parents about kids working alone...
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Terror, courage and dismay as my wife's aunt flees bombing in Ukraine (4/28/22)The terrifying morning after the bombs started to fall on her city in Ukraine, my wife's aunt fled from her high-rise apartment to a colleague's house farther from the city center. For more than two weeks, she and her friend's family scrambled to the ground anytime they heard the sound of "incoming" and crawled to an earthen potato cellar. ...
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Farewell to a brother (1/8/22)On the wall at home I have a picture of my brother Rex and me in a tennis tournament as kids. In my office, there are pictures of us together in front of the house we grew up in, as well as photos together at business events. When I play ping pong or tennis or watch football with my daughters or, currently, do anything, my mind often turns to fond memories of growing up with a brother who loved sports, laughter and competition -- and who was a business partner for the past 20 years...
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A rock, a man, a new generation (10/7/21)Family members and friends poured into Greater Dimension Ministries Saturday to mark the life of "the last man standing," Charles Dale Ayers, one of the nine children of Lee and Odell Ayers. In inspirational remarks the younger generation challenged each other to be worthy of their heritage and true to God.
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An update -- and invite -- about shaping Semissourian (9/18/21)We are in the midst of redesigning the digital platform for the Southeast Missourian, and feedback has been coming in about what people want to see. It's not too late for you to join us with your thoughts. Go to semissourian.com/thefuture to sign up...
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Semissourian.com will change; we want you to know well in advance (8/12/21)In December we lost a good friend and cherished colleague: James Baughn, webmaster for the Southeast Missourian and Rust Communications. James was a remarkable individual — history writer and hiking blogger, satirist and bridge chronicler — who for 20 years designed and evolved the digital architecture for more than 30 Rust newspaper websites in eight states. ...
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Cape Girardeau: A place of visionaries and volunteers (3/16/21)Listen to the experts, and they will identify common characteristics of thriving historic downtowns. Among them: clean, pedestrian-friendly environments; a line of clustered storefronts with few gaps between them; street benches and greenery; and a variety of businesses from unique "Mom-and-Pop" shops to quality restaurants and nightlife, farmers markets, food stores, pharmacies and non-retail services. ...
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Dishonor, disgrace and tragedy: May we never see anything like this again (1/9/21)The mayhem of the riot has united most of the country in horror. “This is not America” has become a common refrain. Yet it happened, and the nation is at a crossroads. Will the mayhem of this day cause the country — including the media and both parties — to lower the temperature, restrain the inflammatory rhetoric, and seek more common ground? Or will divisiveness and disrespect continue to reign?
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A prayer for our nation (1/7/21)On Wednesday, we saw what can happen when indignation and anger are emphasized over American unity, and when our protective institutions are falsely maligned.
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In Memoriam: Larry Payne and others who made a difference (12/22/20)It's been a hard, strange year, and this weekend we lost another stalwart in Cape Girardeau. Larry Payne -- who was a fixture on road and transportation boards, along with being a benefactor to area sports teams and a longtime supporter of Christmas for the Elderly and Toybox -- died with family surrounding him at home Saturday evening. At his side was his wife Bettye, with whom he celebrated 61 years of marriage this summer...
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Questions and Answers about COVID vaccine process in Cape Girardeau and Southeast Missouri (12/17/20)Applause has been breaking out around the area as the first COVID-19 vaccine doses are received, opened, prepared and injected. In a modern miracle, the vaccines were developed with historic speed while not cutting any safety corners, say health experts, in part by implementing research trials and production steps in parallel rather than sequentially. ...
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James Baughn: History and bridge lover, friend to many (12/12/20)The world lost a remarkable individual last week when bridge-lover, history buff and webmaster James Baughn died after losing balance at the edge of a bluff at Trail of Tears State Park. He had been taking photos, something he did most weekends, on one of his many hikes. He was 39 years old, an only child, who will be grievously missed by his families -- at home, at work and in the community...
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The day I watched Diego Maradona play (12/1/20)If you love soccer, you know Diego Maradona as one of the all-time greats. The day I watched him play was June 8, 1990, in Milan, Italy, the opening match of the once-every-four-years World Cup, with Argentina defending its crown. When that day started, I had no idea I would be there, or how important the day would become to international soccer.
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Nation is not alone; thank you God for many blessings (11/25/20)There are struggles in the land, as there always are and will be, because humans are imperfect beings. But America remains a land of bounty, good in its spirit, founded on hope of a better future, with institutions built to last, and people free to self-determine and help one another. We have much for which to be grateful...
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Taking COVID-19 precautions at weddings, funerals and Thanksgiving events is vital (11/19/20)We are in the third wave of COVID-19 in the country. In Cape Girardeau County, the positivity rate, which indicates number of positive tests as a percentage of all tests -- more than 25 percent -- is staggering. Now is the time to wear masks, cut down on social gathering, and be sure to support the elderly in creative ways while maintaining physical distance...
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As COVID-19 cases explode, a plea from Cape Girardeau hospital execs (11/14/20)COVID-19 cases are skyrocketing in our area, and local hospital management and public health officials are deeply concerned. On one hand, there is no need to panic. But COVID is putting a strain on local staffing, particularly nurses, as hospitals and nursing agencies outside the area scramble to recruit talent to other hot zones. ...
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Taking a dog named 'Shark' to beach is a very bad idea (11/7/20)It's a great time to renew our commitment to respect, faith, good humor and the American spirit. Supporting each other, especially in times of duress, is what makes America shine! Be kind to others. And... pause here for a laugh or two.
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Some big misses on Election Day -- and a note of grace (11/5/20)Pollsters and the national media missed big. An election that many predicted to be a Blue Wave for Democrats turned instead into a nail biter, with Republicans holding onto key U.S. Senate seats and even expanding their position in the House...
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Do you love the movies? Then don't miss the new series at La Croix! (10/29/20)Each year, La Croix Church in Cape Girardeau packs members and guests into its sanctuary for a unique series that focuses on popular culture through cinema while drawing poignant, transcendent lessons about life. In a year without Covid, more than 2,400 people, most of them munching on popcorn, would typically be in attendance each week for what is called "La Croix at the Movies." Its goal is explained on the La Croix website, "We believe that many biblical truths can be found in art, and one of the most prevalent art forms in our age is the movies.". ...
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Balance on the river's edge (10/24/20)The river has been on my mind a lot lately, maybe because it offers a respite from the virus and politics of much else in the world. Maybe because I'm walking it more frequently -- along with dozens of other people -- as a great place for exercise.
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What we don't know about the election (10/22/20)We are less than two weeks from the 2020 election, and no one knows who is going to win. Polls suggest that former vice-president Joe Biden is likely to come out on top -- significantly, when it comes to the popular vote -- but we all know what happened in 2016. Against the odds, Donald Trump defied the experts and scored the victory where it mattered most: in the Electoral College...
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Local Covid deaths, young children, and some remarkable optimism about the future (10/17/20)Here is a round-up of news about coronavirus in our region -- and the larger world. Statistics underline that COVID-19 is dangerous to the elderly but less of a concern to young adults. Still, younger people who become infected can carry it to those most vulnerable, so vigilance is necessary. ...
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Judge Amy Coney Barrett provides inspiration in intellect, independence and humility (10/15/20)Governments, and especially the courts, work best when good, independent, competent people, grounded in humility, serve within them. During two days of at times intense -- but not disrespectful -- questioning, Judge Amy Coney Barrett displayed the mettle, personal warmth and brilliance that have elevated her throughout her career. Regardless of what you think about the president who nominated her, she is an inspirational woman worthy of the court...
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What's the crazy thing in the river at Cape Girardeau? (10/1/20)If you haven't seen it yet, you need to visit the Cape riverfront to take in the salvage operation taking place just east of the center of the channel. It's like a rotating, free-form fountain -- connected to a crane on a barge in the Mississippi River. ...
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A celebration of Ruth Bader Ginsburg (9/26/20)One does not have to like everything about RBG -- though many people do – to recognize she was a brilliant lawyer and an inspiring individual. Throughout her life, because of her competence and determination, she regularly broke barriers that had been erected against her and other women.
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Lessons from Eisenhower, seen in the lives of Drury, Buhs and Shanks (9/17/20)They represent an era in America marked by honor and humility, service and God-fearing Christianity, embodied in imperfect men and women who strove to love and serve others, build families and prosper. In the past week, several of these American heroes have been on my mind: Dwight D. Eisenhower, whose memorial opens in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 17; and Charles Drury, Ray Buhs and Connie Shanks, all in their 90s, who died this month...
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In Belarus: The tragic absurdity of a national leader and the inspiring courage of those who stand, peacefully, against him (9/10/20)Positioned between Russia and the West is a nation of beautiful people, Belarus, which has felt the brunt of history. Today, with an autocratic president cracking down on innocents protesting a discredited election, Belarus is suffering again.
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Why are cases of COVID-19 rising in Cape and other questions about rodeo, university and current hospital capacity (9/3/20)Here we go again. After positive cases of COVID-19 receded following the imposition of a countywide mask order in early July, cases of coronavirus are back on the rise in Cape Girardeau County. Understating the results is that university students who reside in Cape Girardeau are not counted in Cape County numbers if their official residence is elsewhere...
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A good man, 'Mickey' Roper, whose influence is cherished (8/25/20)Cape Girardeau lost a good man on Monday. LaRoy "Mickey" Roper died after a long and valiant battle with COVID-19. He was 77. Friends of the family have been praying for him for several weeks as he went on and off and then back on a ventilator. I grew up with the Roper family and remember him as an intense businessman in my younger years. ...
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Protests, riots and a changing media perspective on antifa (8/15/20)News is dynamic. It changes every day. The problem becomes when media seek to deny the facts in pursuit of a larger narrative, usually aligned with a "greater cause." This is a pathway for ideologues, not journalists.
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In Sandy's memory (8/8/20)Talking about death isn't easy. But this update is really more about friendship, and the bonds that are created working together, caring together...
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Thank you for your support during a challenging time (8/6/20)Humanity has struggled through challenges before and prevailed, and we will do so again, because we are not alone. Faith, hope and love are instilled in each one of us. And from them grows courage.
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The latest news about Covid-19, vaccines, a local church exposure and Cape County statistics (7/30/20)Several potential vaccines have moved into the next stage of trials with two in the United States now in 30,000-person studies. Early results are promising, leading health officials to start discussing who will receive vaccines first.
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In national politics and this pandemic: No hands are clean (7/23/20)Here we are, in a worldwide pandemic, with incendiary and destructive comments volleying back and forth between grudge-driven politicians. Power is their game; and no charge against an opponent is out of bounds.
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Here's what doesn't help: Shutting down economies or attacking each other over masks (7/16/20)So how do we manage around a deadly virus while wanting the economy to rebound and businesses to open up? It can't be one extreme or the other: either shutting everything down or acting like the virus doesn't exist. The first way leads to economic and social devastation; the second to unnecessary deaths and human pain. The middle way is to be personally responsible, socially distance, wear masks as appropriate, wash hands regularly, stay home when sick. At some point, a vaccine will come; or herd immunity will be developed.
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With local Covid numbers up, not wearing masks means vulnerable are at greater risk (7/11/20)There's a battle taking place in the national media about the meaning of dramatically rising Covid-19 cases but decreasing deaths. Will significant spikes in hospitalizations in some metro areas translate to more fatalities? In a few weeks we'll know more. ...
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Should Trump resign? A Confederate statue come down? BLM rethink its targets? (7/2/20)Some quick comments about hot current events. The problem of Black shooting deaths in Cape is certainly not because of excessive use of force by law enforcement, and to their credit, some local protesters have identified Cape PD's positive and sustained outreach over the years. But there is a shooting problem in our town, and it is drug- and gang-related. It is also mainly Black-on-Black. This scourge costs more Black lives than what BLM is protesting.
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New governor’s report highlights Covid risk in Southeast Missouri (6/21/20)Covid-19 cases continue to steadily increase in the area with more young people testing positive for the disease. According to Cape Girardeau County officials, at least five confirmed local cases have been connected with the Lake of the Ozarks exposure from May 29 to May 31. There are now more individuals 20-29 years old who have tested positive than any other age group in Cape County. These individuals are recovering or have already recovered, almost always without hospitalization...
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Power brokers manipulate crises for selfish purposes (6/18/20)Hypocrisy and lack of seriousness abound, causing good people to question just how much politics taints everything in the world today. Determining approbation according to political favoritism is worse than dishonest. As for the media, its focus is often on drama and emotion, not helpful information.
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Facebook fraud leads to attacks on local United Way, innocent women (6/11/20)Unfortunately, in the world of social media so many conspiracy theories abound that many people just end up believing what they want, perpetuating lies. It was common to find some commenters discounting the United Way's information as a "cover up," which is what makes so much on Facebook insidious. Verifiable, sourced information is discounted when it doesn't conform to prejudice.
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Say it with love: Black lives matter (6/4/20)The words have meaning in themselves, separate from politics. And our brothers and sisters who are black deserve to hear: “You matter. You are important. You are loved. Your pain is felt and suffered in my heart.” Not because of politics. Despite the politics. Because this is bigger and so much more important than politics, and because it is true.
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While still low, Cape Girardeau numbers bump back up. Here's why (5/30/20)"We are continuing to see community spread, and with an increase in testing and reopening, there will be an increase in case numbers," said Maria Davis, health educator with the Cape Girardeau Public Health Center.
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Just one of the ways COVID-19 has changed how I worship (5/28/20)Every now and then as a diversion from hard news about the coronavirus, I like to write about family. Something funny. Or at least an attempt at humor. In this case, COVID-19 has changed how I approach an important part of worship. How about you? Can you relate?
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Covid-19 in Southeast Missouri: The good news in the numbers (5/19/20)I picked up carryout at a couple restaurants last week, and in both cases the restaurant was either open for inside business or preparing to open. Tables had been separated to provide required social distancing. Wait staff was in masks. It was affirming to see the restaurants implementing public health guidelines, which have been stressed and reinforced by all levels of government from the White House to the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center. ...
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Why you should wear a mask: Faith, fear, responsibility and freedom (5/16/20)One of my heroes is C.S. Lewis, the brilliant British author who wrote the Chronicles of Narnia, starting with "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe." Lewis was also an inspired lay theologian and commenter on current events. One of his essays, "On Living in an Atomic Age," is making the rounds online because of its wisdom in an age of fear. His message, written in 1948, is prescient, providing important context to those panicked by the coronavirus...
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Cape County Public Health is concerned about citizens relaxing personal responsibility (5/12/20)In parts of Cape Girardeau over the weekend it looked like many people believed the coronavirus had disappeared. Presto magic. No longer a worry. In two grocery stores I visited, almost no one other than grocery staff wore masks or face coverings. Some restaurants did not appear to be providing proper social distancing. ...
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Where do we start when opening up the economy? (5/7/20)Let's start with respecting others -- and realizing that we're all in this together -- and that there are legitimate reasons for disagreement. That there are difficult trade-offs for any decision. And if you don't believe there are, then you may be part of the problem.
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Is it COVID-related that my fish just started talking to me? (5/5/20)HUMOR COLUMN: I'm pretty sure my fish started talking to me this week. I was feeding them, wondering how they liked being stuck within the same four walls all the time, and a voice piped up: "Not bad, Papa. We have short memories. And the food is good." Yes, one of them did call me "Papa."...
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Emerson tests Covid-free in D.C., while cases rise in Sikeston (5/2/20)A few weeks ago, I reported about the outbreak of COVID-19 at the Sikeston Convalescent Center, where at the time 16 of 19 residents on the memory wing tested positive. According to several sources, cases there continue to spread. One of them cited the total number of COVID-19 at the facility, including staff, to be "at least 27 cases." One reason for the spike is that more residents and staff were tested this week as part of a general test program...
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Islamic Center members show model of love and strength after their house of worship is burned down (4/30/20)For millions of Americans, religion offers hope and purpose greater than the challenges of the immediate. Taking it to heart, we are encouraged to reach higher than the egocentrism, political bickering, pettiness and hate that mark so much of the world around us. ...
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The dark side of quarantines, Covid anxiety and who's in charge (4/25/20)Suicides have bumped up locally along with drug hospitalizations. Domestic abuse cases are rising, along with trauma cases. But, contrary to some concerns voiced in online commentary, a group of local officials are, in fact, meeting daily to chart a course for Cape Girardeau County, analyzing local numbers while listening to guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control, White House task force and Missouri governor. Here is information about these topics and more.
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Numbers low, but Southeast Missouri trending in wrong direction (4/23/20)"What we have seen thus far is Southeast Missouri is trending very differently than the rest of the state," said Maria Davis. "The state of Missouri is trending down right now, and Southeast Missouri is trending up. People need to understand we will have to make decisions based on what is going on in our area."
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Former U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson faces coronavirus (4/21/20)For more than 17 years Jo Ann Emerson represented the 8th District of Missouri in the United States House of Representatives, one of the first Republican women elected to Congress in the state and a political force who regularly won re-election with more than 70% of the vote. ...
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'People... need to be acting like they have it' (4/18/20)Positive cases of COVID-19 have been climbing fast in Scott County, but public health officials there have not wanted to identify any commonalities or locations. Since early this week, though, the Southeast Missourian has been receiving tips about an outbreak at the Sikeston Convalescent Center, which did not respond to phone calls. Friday morning we were able to confirm positive cases at the facility with family members of a resident, who will not be identified, along with others...
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When will COVID-19 cases peak in Cape Girardeau County? (4/16/20)On a recent call with Missouri U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt, he talked about one of the challenges of working from home with around-the-clock work: knowing what day it is. The new "days of the week are basically yesterday, today and tomorrow," Blunt said. Information is changing so quickly outside of the consistent message of wash your hands regularly and at length, social distance and (relatively new) wear masks when in public, that some things known today might be different tomorrow. ...
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Seeking good news, hope in an era of coronavirus? (4/11/20)The pace of change and new information can be daunting. But what holds firm is the human spirit -- and those helping others in times of need and disruption. I see it in the people I work with -- and in many of the stories we report. I see it at the grocery stores. In the chamber offices. With our municipal employees and staff. In our hospitals and doctor's offices. With teachers and pastors and in our churches. The list goes on. So many people are inspired to work and serve in care of others, even at their own risk or inconvenience.
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What to know about food deliveries, handling cash, loss of taste and COVID-19 in Cape Girardeau (4/9/20)With federal health authorities encouraging the wearing of masks in public, I made my first trip to the grocery store in one. It was from a batch of masks bought years ago from a hardware store for a home project. I'm not sure how much protection it actually has against the coronavirus, but it certainly provides a reminder not to touch eyes, nose or mouth. I matched the mask with disposable gloves from a box I originally bought for disinfecting doorknobs around the office...
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An update on masks, rapid tests and ventilators in Cape (4/4/20)To help residents understand the facts around COVID-19 in our area, I'm providing answers to common questions posed to the newspaper. Sources of information today include both local hospitals, as well as the Cape Girardeau County Department of Public Health. I also talked to some officials who shared information, not for attribution, but which I verified. Here are some questions and answers...
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If someone tests positive, how would you know if you should be concerned (4/2/20)As positive COVID-19 diagnoses increase in the area, questions are pouring into the Southeast Missourian. Over my next several columns, I will try to answer some of these questions and then update as information and numbers change. If there's something you want to know, please email jrust@semissourian.com. Or ask online beneath this column...
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More good news, COVID-19 rapid test approved by FDA (3/31/20)The United States lost a month with the shoddy rollout of coronavirus tests. Chalk it up to government bureaucracy. Now private companies are releasing new, better, faster tests. On Friday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued Emergency Use Authorization to medical device company Abbott Labs for a coronavirus test that delivers positive results in as little as five minutes and negative results in 13 minutes, the company said...
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Some good news in the analysis of COVID-19 rates (3/26/20)It's stunning how fast events are moving. Two weeks ago I was deliberating traveling with family to New Orleans, a place with no identified cases of coronavirus at the time. Now, New Orleans is one of the hot zones for the virus. In a matter of days, Missouri went from a couple known cases to more than 250 and climbing fast. Perry County is under order from county authorities to "shelter in place."...
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Family takes 'a whack' out of the coronavirus (3/21/20)What do you do with six girls in an apartment for maybe weeks? We are giving each of them leadership in planning family activities, dividing cleaning and cooking responsibilities, and challenging them with showing love for each other... But do you know what the biggest hit was?
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Not often do I threaten to sue someone, but reliable information in time of uncertainty is vital (3/18/20)Within 15 minutes after I threatened to sue, the fake post disappeared. Whether the individual removed it or Facebook did, I do not know. But it was gone -- while still causing damage. For example, several hours later, my daughter received a Snapchat with a photo of the fake story. Who knows how many other people received it -- or saw the original untrue Facebook post?
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Coronavirus comes to St. Louis; are we prepared? (3/11/20)I was in St. Louis on Monday, and people were unnerved by the arrival of the coronavirus. Not so much that a student studying abroad in Italy came home to her family, fell sick and was diagnosed with the infectious disease, but that the student's father and a younger sister attended a father-daughter dance while they suspected the disease might be in their household. ...
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The Golden Age of Cape Girardeau restaurants, part II (3/4/20)Someone asked me after my first column, what exactly is a “Golden Age.” To me, it’s a time when something in life is at its peak. And here in 2020: Never before have we been blessed with so many different options of restaurants – with flavors from around the world and innovations on so many favorites...
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Is Bernie Sanders the weakest opponent against Trump? (2/26/20)So far Sanders has avoided the kind of media scrutiny that is usually leveled against Republicans. Expect that to change -- at least until it becomes a foregone conclusion that he'll be the Democrat candidate for president. Then expect Trump's campaign to level him.
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University can do better with MLK speaker next year (2/12/20)Some quick thoughts about Angela Davis' speech at Southeast Missouri State University along with a review of national politics, including: The person I hope surprises in New Hampshire -- and hangs on longer as an alternative who might rise from the current Democratic mess -- is Sen. Amy Klobuchar.
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Saint Francis versus UnitedHealthcare, part 2 (2/5/20)The negotiation between UnitedHealthcare and Saint Francis has created a dilemma for the newspaper. On Thursday last week, we received two letters to the editor providing opposing perspectives on the matter. The challenge is that traditionally the Southeast Missourian has not printed letters or Speak Out comments about private party negotiations. ...
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Saint Francis vs UnitedHealthcare comes at risk to local residents (1/29/20)The Saint Francis press conference on Monday alternated between tough rhetoric, blasting UnitedHealthcare for leveraging people and crisis for profits, and a stated desire to negotiate. In a news release, UnitedHealthcare fired back comparing Saint Francis pricing unfavorably to urban rates -- and decrying the Cape Girardeau-based hospital system as a reason for high medical costs in the area. ...
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Local heroism in an age of celebrity culture (1/22/20)There is a part of our culture that reveres celebrity — and bravado. One could even say a mark of the modern era is the dominance of celebrity culture, where individuals thrive commercially by turning fame into personal brands, which are then leveraged for money and more fame...
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Wandering reflections about a trip to Seattle, returning home to a new year (1/15/20)I spent much of last week accompanying my wife Victoria to an academic conference in Seattle. Joining us was our 7-year old daughter, Liza, who showed the patience of Job sitting through her mother's panel. Some of the presentations were in German, and let's just say they weren't the most riveting engagements -- even though to me it's fascinating how so many talented professors talk openly about using courses such as language instruction as a vehicle for ideological indoctrination. ...
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Is Cape Girardeau in a 'Golden Age' of restaurants? (1/8/20)This is a quiet time of the year. Kids are back in school. Holiday obligations are over. Christmas ornaments are back in storage. In my house, without the twinkling lights, the space seems a little forlorn, a feeling compounded by gray skies and bare trees outside. With the early darkness and long nights, it's a perfect time to set the cooking aside for an evening and go out to dinner!...
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American leaders agree Soleimani was a bad man, disagree on risks (1/4/20)His death removes a powerful force for ill in the world. But the full repercussion of the American military’s targeted strike on him and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the man operationally behind the attack on the U.S. embassy in Baghdad, will not be known immediately.
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Are you ready for the newspaper future? (1/2/20)It’s no secret, print newspapers in most parts of the country are struggling. Many, particularly in small towns, have closed. According to University of North Carolina professor Penny Muse Abernathy, more than 2,100 newspapers have closed in the United States since 2004, 70 of them dailies. ...
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Shame on Pelosi, Democrats for delay tactic (12/20/19)Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and House Democrats continue to shred their credibility. As I write this column, Pelosi and her House lieutenants have indicated they do not intend to send articles of impeachment, passed by the House, to the U.S. Senate until Democrats can dictate a witness list...
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Combatting the Seven Deadly Sins of social media (12/4/19)There's nothing wrong with the idea of Facebook, for example, but in practice, social media platforms are usually designed to exploit human weakness, distracting us from greater potential.
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With Drury Award, Gary Rust shows that hard work and kindness matter (11/27/19)I'm proud to call Gary Rust my father. No one is a stranger to him. He celebrates all people, but especially those who apply themselves to improve the world around them. He is loyal, hard working, playful, generous, insatiably curious, loving and visionary. On Thursday he was recognized by the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce with the first-ever Drury Family Spirit of Entrepreneurship Award...
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Chuck Drury's comments about Gary Rust (11/27/19)We are pleased tonight to join with the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce and all of you to recognize the very first recipient of the Drury Family Spirit of Entrepreneurship Award. This award builds upon the powerful example of entrepreneurship expressed by three hometown sons of Cape Girardeau, the founders of Drury Hotels: my father, Charles, and his brothers, Bob and Jim...
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Earl Norman: Real joy comes from helping people (11/26/19)It was a special night in Cape Girardeau on Thursday as the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce recognized award winners in small business of the year, chamber ambassador, the Rush H. Limbaugh lifetime achievement award and a new Drury Family award for entrepreneurship. Common in the acceptance speeches was a theme of gratitude -- along with a celebration of this corner of the world as unique...
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Tribute to a local journalist, who’s shared his life with our community (11/20/19)One of the attributes that sets a great newspaper apart from lesser ones is a news staff that understands and is part of the community. Since 1979, Southeast Missourian reporter Mark Bliss has been part of the community -- getting married, raising a family, burying a spouse and marrying anew, and writing about all aspects of life in Southeast Missouri. ...
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Museum is unique part of local history; Special event celebrates it and all area veterans (11/13/19)On Saturday night, Nov. 16, at the Arena Building in Cape Girardeau, area military veterans will be the guests of honor at a celebration and fundraising dinner for the Stars and Stripes National Museum in Bloomfield, Missouri. It promises to be an evening of patriotic spirit, tribute to service members and American red, white and blue fun, featuring the full Jerry Ford Orchestra and his “Andrew Sisters.” If you are a veteran — or family member of a veteran — and would like to attend, thanks to the generosity of sponsors they have a seat for you at no cost as long as tickets remain. ...
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Obama was right to speak against 'woke' culture (11/6/19)So much of today's culture is disturbing, especially how disagreements (and differences) become flashpoints for wars of personal destruction. Many have assisted the creation of this culture, and much of the media inflames it, which is why it was affirming to hear former President Obama recently offer his views about youth activism and "woke" culture. His words warrant careful consideration...
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Rain stops parade; but cheerleaders, band and sports teams undaunted (10/31/19)The headline in the Southeast Missourian over the weekend summarized it perfectly: "Rain, rain, go away: SE Homecoming parade canceled, first time since '73." Overall, the rain gauge at the Cape Girardeau airport indicated nearly 4 inches fell between midnight and 1 p.m. ...
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Text about friend's death brings raw memories, inspiration (10/23/19)Last week an acquaintance sent me a text with the photo of a column I wrote more than 25 years ago, February 1993. Among his comments: "Jon, you wrote this special article quite some time ago. It reached my heart. I'm thankful you wrote it. I've lost a number of friends and students along the way to drugs and poor life choices. I thank God for rescuing me. I was headed that same way."...
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New beauty graces the street in Cape Girardeau (10/16/19)Strong, independent, upbeat and alluring, a new woman rules elegantly over Cape Girardeau. You can see her framed by foliage on the side of The Indie House at 605 Broadway, a beautiful new mural painted by Southeast Missouri state alumnus Terry Davis, which features a young woman wearing a crown that harkens Lady Liberty, holding sunflowers, in front of billowy clouds with the words "You are my sunshine."...
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Southeast Missourian to allow pseudonyms on online comments again (10/9/19)The Southeast Missourian has made several changes over time in how it manages comments below articles online. Throughout, our goal has been to encourage a positive forum for people to engage ideas, connect and be entertained. At the same time, we understand that self-expression is messy, and anywhere people gather to share ideas and opinions, differences will emerge. ...
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Did I almost jinx the baseball Cardinals? (10/2/19)When I was a wee lad of 8 or 9, my brother, Rex, and I were superstitious football fans. For each game we would don our St. Louis Cardinals football jerseys, white football pants, red-striped socks, Cardinal-emblazoned helmets and take our positions around the TV. ...
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Quick thoughts as Cards win, Cubs falter and Cape rocks (9/25/19)Has there been a more delicious regular season series for the Cardinals this century than their four-game sweep of the Cubs the past weekend? Each white-knuckle game was won by a run -- with the Cards three times taking the lead in their last at bat. ...
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Facing death with dignity, courage and beauty (9/18/19)Sometimes in life you come across a talent and personality so big, that you know you're in the company of someone special. At the Southeast Missourian, Heidi Hall was a talent for the ages. A reporter here in the 1990s, she rose to managing editor 2000 to 2003, before departing to become an editor in Florida and Nashville, then for the past five years, a public affairs officer at Vanderbilt University. ...
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Cape Chamber plays vital role in developing leaders (9/11/19)The Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce powers a lot of economic progress in the region, but its development of leaders may be one of its most important roles. It does this on a number of levels, most obviously through its Leadership Cape program, which celebrated its 30th year in 2019. ...
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Uplifting stories about inspiring people who are making a big difference locally (9/7/19)Following is an abbreviated version of remarks made by Southeast Missourian publisher Jon K. Rust at the B Magazine Newsmakers Awards reception on Sept. 4 at First Midwest in Cape Girardeau. n We received dozens of nominations from throughout the distribution area of B, and there is a common thread between the honorees tonight...
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Millenials who prefer socialism ignore the lessons of history (9/4/19)During my college years, I studied, worked and traveled in what was then the last days of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. Personal lessons and observations from those two years abound. Among them: the glaringly stark failure of socialism. Food was so scarce that citizens received ration coupons -- "talony" -- to buy basic staples like butter. ...
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New magazine in newspaper tomorrow: Football, life and more (8/21/19)There will be a new magazine in the newspaper on Thursday, Aug. 22, previewing area high school football teams and Southeast Missouri State University: "Gridiron 2019," available to subscribers only. Those who buy the newspaper at a rack will need to purchase a copy of the magazine separately at a participating Rhodes convenience store or at the Southeast Missourian office. Price: $2. Digital subscribers will have access to the stories and photos via semoball.com...
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In world rivalries, Trump isn't the beginning of the debate (8/14/19)My time in Belarus was full of great adventures with family, and I could write with love about its people, who are beautiful, and its history, which is fascinating, and its food, which is delicious. But today, in this world where trade negotiations affect us all, I thought to provide a different angle, a business angle, that underlines the boldness of China. ...
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Ban large capacity magazines, implement 'red flag' laws (8/7/19)It's good to be back in the United States, though I mourn along with the rest of the nation for those in El Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio. Too often our country is afflicted by mass shootings, with crazy people pulling triggers on powerful weapons against crowds of innocent people. It's easy to feel angry, helpless or numb as media analysis mixes with political grandstanding and the dead -- easily imagined as neighbors, friends and family -- are identified...
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Trump is wrong to constantly attack others (7/17/19)At lunch the other day, a good friend of mine explained he stays away from the national news, and he's all the happier for it. He no longer watches the cable news channels, and he's deleted all but one of the national newspaper apps he used to have on his phone. I totally understand...
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A Fourth of July secret for next year: Best place to watch fireworks (7/10/19)This year the fireworks at Arena Park launched with a boom and two explosions of fire, sending a heat wave into the crowd and black mushroom clouds into the night. The crowd, surprised by the hot wind, gasped -- and one of the best fireworks shows in Cape Girardeau's history was underway. ...
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As Missouri implements medical marijuana laws, there should be no rush to legalize recreational use (7/3/19)Sometimes I smell it while walking along the Mississippi river. A group of kids, perched on rocks away from the trail, a skunky aroma lingering near them. It's the tell-tale smell of marijuana. In San Francisco, when I've traveled there, the odor permeates the streets, creating a strange melange of beautiful vistas and cat piss air. ...
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Is there a profound breakdown in American democracy? (6/19/19)Turn on cable TV, listen to popular podcasts, even peruse the online commentary section of this newspaper, and a regular theme emerges: Partisanship is threatening American democracy. But is it really? Or is there something more concerning at work? Last week I wrote about a Harvard Business School presentation that looked at the debilitating impact of screen usage -- phones, tablets, video games -- by kids. ...
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How much are America's children suffering from smart phones, Snapchat and sexting, and what can be done about it? (6/12/19)The setting was a Harvard Business School classroom. The question came from a boy who looked to be around 12 years old, "How much time do I have to use a smart phone to be called an addict?" It was a question, it seemed, sparked because of his parents, who considered his use to be over the line, and there was a note of defiance in the tone...
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Ready for the Catfish: Cape baseball team starts new tradition (5/29/19)Excitement is growing for the inaugural year of the Cape Catfish, and a wooden-bat college baseball league, which will be enlivening Capaha Park throughout the summer. First home game is June 4, and Cape fans will have a big part to say in the success of the team, but maybe not in a way they expect...
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Another year has passed, way too fast (5/22/19)There is a cuteness about watching kids walk into their school. From the disproportionate size of backpacks to creative hair styles -- in my girls' cases, different braids -- they take a bit of a parent's heart with them as they slip away through the school door. ...
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Should Americans elect presidents according to likability? (5/8/19)Two prominent stories in the New York Times over the weekend returned to a theme that is never far from presidential politics, especially since Hillary Clinton first ran: Is likability a bad metric for leadership? (My answer is, Yes, but not for the gender-specific reason of the NYT stories.) One piece was a front-page article. The second: "The Likability Trap," an editorial column...
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From comic books to jets, quilts, taxes and angels (5/1/19)I made a 26-hour trip to Chicago last week for a meeting at an airport hotel. Flying out of Cape Girardeau, I left my office at 11 a.m., was on the plane at noon, landed around 1:14 and was at the convention center speaking on a panel at 3:30. It was a smooth and incredibly convenient trip. ...
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Did you hear about the restaurant on the moon? Great food. No atmosphere. (4/25/19)Dropping my girls off at school on Wednesday, my youngest was the last one out of the car. I told her I was thinking about writing a column about jokes. She told me to tell everyone about how "Two guys walked into a bar. The third one ducked." This is a 6-year old...
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Want to make a difference? Seek service above self (4/17/19)Elizabeth Shelton, the director of the United Way of Southeast Missouri, has a wonderful, thoughtful way of communicating. She eloquently packs meaning -- and, at times humor -- into her sentences. This talent was on display last week during a United Way Celebration to recognize volunteers, campaign champions, staff and those involved in United Way agencies...
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Google, FTI, LMA select SE Missourian as 1 of 10 in North America; Missourian seeks reporter (4/3/19)Google, FTI, LMA select SE Missourian as 1 of 10 in North America; Missourian seeks reporter I need your help. The Southeast Missourian is looking for a new business reporter. Do you know anyone who might be interested? Think about it. Are you interested? Although our plan is to hire a full-time reporter, we would also consider hiring several people -- if especially talented -- on a part-time basis. ...
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Here are some of the questions about school bond issue, but in the end it's rather simple: Yes vote is good for Cape (3/27/19)My email inbox has become a destination for arguments against the upcoming school bond issue. Other people buttonhole me around Cape. I'm not a spokesperson for the bond effort, but I am an interested observer: a citizen of Cape Girardeau who wants to see our community thrive. Let me address a few of the concerns shared with me -- and some answers:...
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New behavioral health hospital will be big for Cape Girardeau, whole region (3/20/19)Today’s world is fraught with new stresses and addictions, often revolving around technology. Think about internet gaming, online porn, social media, even technology such as vaping and JUULs (which can deliver more nicotine in one “pod” than a pack of cigarettes) or relatively new synthetic drugs such as fentanyl and other opioids. ...
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Is it racist to vote against school bond issue? No, but it would be short-sighted (3/13/19)So many problems in today's world sadly emerge because folks on opposite sides of an argument try to eliminate opposition through character destruction. Disagreement, it is stated (or implied), results because of one side's moral failure, not because of legitimate differences of opinion...
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Thanks to Old Town Cape (3/6/19)Twenty years ago downtown Cape Girardeau was teetering on the brink. While long-time stalwarts had a dream to revitalize, many businesses had fled west towards the highway and new prospects were dim. Today, the area is vibrant and growing. One of the major reasons: In 1999, Old Town Cape, an organization largely powered by volunteers, began, establishing a strategy and process for redevelopment. ...
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An update on Southeast Missourian's changes in moderating comments (2/20/19)The following comment was posted Sunday, Feb. 17, on a semissourian.com Speak Out forum. Legitimate? Civil? Important for community discussion? "Wow, Joe Biden is overseas telling Europeans that America is an embarrassment! You do not speak for us, Joe. There are millions of proud, liberty loving Americans who think YOU are the embarrassment! Yes, Google god I think that this is a civil comment. Don't you think that this is not what an ex-VP needs to be saying overseas."...
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The great CJHS yearbook scandal and tales of art and Valentines (2/13/19)I'm going to cover a lot of ground quickly in this week's column. Stick with me. Ever since my girls were old enough to behave (and maybe even before then), my wife and I have loved taking them to art museums. In strollers, they would stare at the colors and the people. ...
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Imagine, listen, act and work toward the promise (1/30/19)Are you an activist? It's a term some embrace; others resist. To me, someone who takes action for social or political change is an activist. Activism is about doing something yourself when you see a need, and not just watching -- or criticizing -- from the sidelines. Some of the people I admire the most are activists: people who seek to change the world for the better through personal commitment and love...
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From NFL cold turkey to Super Bowl nightmare (1/23/19)Who do you want to win the big game? The diabolical owner or the Grumpy Lobster Boat Captain? When the Rams left St. Louis, I turned off NFL football: cold turkey. That meant stopping the fantasy football I'd played for eight years -- and not watching a single game in 2017 and 2018. ...
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Traveling -- like life -- never goes as planned, but remains beautiful (1/16/19)On a flight to London the first week of January, I heard a particular announcement for the first time in my life: "If you are not using your bag for nausea, please think about offering it to a neighbor in need. No one is allowed to the lavatories." It was a turbulent ride, to say the least, echoed later by a flight attendant as "the worst [he'd] ever experienced." Thankfully, transportation the rest of the journey was non-eventful (except for the young man, wearing big headphones, who belted 80s pop songs at the top of his lungs on a local train outside of Caerphilly. ...
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Life in Cape and Jackson: Some of the top stories in 2018 (12/26/18)As 2018 comes to a close, tumult plagues the national and international scenes, while locally, progress presses ahead. Along with President Donald Trump, the leaders of France, England and Germany stand precariously, their popularity on the wane and protests in the streets. ...
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Congratulations to Brian Gerau for 10 years at Jackson Chamber (12/12/18)One thing you can count on from Jackson Chamber of Commerce executive director Brian Gerau -- besides the fact he will be sharply dressed -- is that somewhere along the line at a chamber event, he's going to make a funny quip. Few ever seem planned. ...
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Weekend of victory, fun and delight (11/28/18)The jubilation at Houck Stadium on Saturday after the 20th-ranked Redhawks upended the 15th-ranked Stony Brook Seawolves was pure delight. Eight years since their last winning season -- and eight years since their only other trip to the Football Championship Series playoffs -- the Redhawks overcame their largest deficit of the year to score a historic win, 28-14: Southeast Missouri State's first-ever playoff victory. ...
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Thanksgiving blessing, Harry Rust and Redhawks football (11/21/18)I hope your Thanksgiving Day is warm and full of family and friends. Enjoy tomorrow. And, if you don't have some place to go or others to spend part of the day with, know the Salvation Army welcomes you to help. Or simply: to enjoy the meal. Doors at 701 Good Hope Street are open 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. for those seeking to break bread and connect with others...
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Southeast Missourian joins Google in test to elevate civility (11/14/18)The Southeast Missourian will be participating in a pilot program with Jigsaw, a division of Google's parent corporation, to test whether technology can help elevate online community discussion. Your participation and perspective will be vital. Together, we have an opportunity to shape future online commentary not only locally but across the country (and world)...
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Time for a little humor (11/7/18)I have tremendous respect for my father. And in his columns over the years, he would frequently sprinkle in jokes and other diversions. For the morning after the midterms, I thought a bit of humor would be welcomed. So, with a hat tip to my dad, here are excerpts from his column originally published April 17, 2004...
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Interview: Jason Smith, and his views of the president (11/5/18)If you've ever heard 8th District Congressman Jason Smith talk about President Donald Trump, you know there's much affection and admiration there. Smith stopped by the Southeast Missourian's offices to talk to the editorial board Friday after the Cape Chamber's First Friday Coffee. ...
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Trump's visit offers us all a chance to show hospitality (10/31/18)Have you heard about the woman, delayed at the airport, who slipped into a Starbucks for coffee and a package of cookies? Sitting down in a row of seats outside her gate to enjoy her drink and sweets, she pulled a book from her purse and began reading. After a while, a man sitting next to her opened the package of cookies next to her purse and ate one. The woman was astounded. "How dare he?" she thought. She took her own cookie and went back to her book and latte...
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Hawley, Galloway are best for Missouri (10/24/18)United States senate race Josh Hawley, Claire McCaskill. Missouri vote to help decide senate majority. Abortion issues. New York Times. Project Veritas. Nicole Galloway for state auditor. Josh Hawley for senate. Claire McCaskill for senate.
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Congratulations to a pastor, a coach; RIP Mueller, Peterson (10/17/18)Started 30 years ago with services at a movie theater in the mall, La Croix Church celebrated its anniversary earlier this month. Pastor Ron Watts shared how as a young man he felt called to start a new church -- but in his hometown of St. Louis. God, however, kept directing him to Cape. Thank you, Ron and wife Linda, for following that call...
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My wife, a community and the runners who make a difference (10/10/18)My wife hasn't been a runner since high school, which makes it remarkable that this fall she became a middle and junior high school cross-country coach. Impressively, like all that she does, she poured herself into her responsibilities with gusto: searching online for best practices and coaching tips, and querying friends who competitively race for their insights. ...
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Jesus Christ at the River Campus, revisited (10/3/18)I shared my column this week in advance with Michael McIntosh, the talented university professor who directed "Jesus Christ Superstar" on the River Campus. As explained in an email to him, "I just have a lot of respect for you and everyone at the River Campus. And, I prefer to stop in on folks if I'm writing about something negative -- particularly, to understand if I'm missing or haven't considered something pertinent...
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Powerful and emotional, 'Superstar' comes to Cape (9/26/18)I've been listening to the "Jesus Christ Superstar" soundtrack my whole life. Written originally as a concept album, it is one of the original rock operas, forever changing musicals in America and around the world. It helped propel its creators, composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice, to the highest of heights. ...
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Morry Cole, Shipyard Fest and Missouri journalism (9/19/18)The Southeast Missourian was recognized last weekend by the Missouri Press Association with 30 awards in its Better Newspaper Contest, including top honors in general excellence, investigative reporting, breaking news story, best overall design and best website. Of the 30, the newspaper won 13 first place awards...
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Too many people feel justified to behave badly (9/13/18)Below is the original column I wrote about President Trump's visit, now canceled because of the hurricane aimed at the East coast. I believe the president made the right decision. With so much at peril, his attention should not be on a political rally...
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B Magazine Newsmakers: Answering the call to action in inspiring ways (9/8/18)Following is an abbreviated version of remarks made by Southeast Missourian publisher Jon K. Rust at the B Magazine Newsmakers Awards reception on Sept. 5 at First Midwest in Cape Girardeau. n It's a pleasure to be with you tonight to recognize several impressive individuals, who have made a significant impact through business engagement and success, and through community involvement and volunteering...
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Fear and fun of fatherhood at the SEMO District Fair (9/5/18)Fatherhood has a way of changing a man. For one, his heart grows beyond what he could have imagined. Second, he ends up doing all sorts of things he may never have planned. I never thought I would “dance” ballet as much as I have in my life, but with four girls who have taken lessons and who at different times have loved to leap and be lifted into the air, I’ve done it. And, until the last one gets too big and my shoulder gives out, it’s quite wonderful. We’re all happy...
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Rest in peace, Sen. McCain, war hero and presidential critic (8/29/18)I've been lucky to meet a few presidents -- and more than a few presidential candidates. One of the most tense encounters was being in the audience when Democrat presidential candidate Sen. Gary Hart made his first public appearance after the story broke about his dalliance during the 1984 campaign with a young woman not his wife on the yacht, "Money Business." The episode derailed his national ambitions, and former vice president Walter Mondale, propelled by the advertising campaign "Where's the beef?" went on to win the Democratic nomination only to lose 49 states to Ronald Reagan.. ...
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Driving by Cape Girardeau, noticing changes, progress (8/22/18)My dad loves Cape Girardeau and its progress, so when I was growing up and we went out of town as a family, the first thing we did upon arriving back was drive downtown, checking out the traffic, the lights, the people, any changes. Mind you: This was done even after the long drive from a rare family vacation to Florida -- hours of my parents and six kids squeezed into a station wagon. ...
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Softening online scourge of long-past indiscretions (8/15/18)Last week the Southeast Missourian implemented a new policy to govern how crime reports are made available to search engines. As I wrote when announcing a draft of the change, "The new policy seeks to strike a balance between the Southeast Missourian keeping the public informed and recognizing, sympathetically, that in today's world of instant digital search, long-past minor indiscretions can play a disproportionate role in a person's online identity."...
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Good to be home after trip abroad (8/8/18)It's good to be back in the country. As my wife Victoria likes to say, "Being somewhere is fun. It's the travel, especially the older I get, which is hard. I need a rocket." One of the benefits of life back in the States for both of us is clean finger- and toenails. ...
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Written from Russia: Perspectives on Trump and Putin (8/1/18)One of the joys of an international marriage is visiting relatives abroad, and I'm writing this column while on vacation in rural Russia. My wife grew up in a city of two and a half million people but spent her summers with grandparents in a small Russian village. ...
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Newspaper seeks reader input on new draft policy (7/25/18)Today the Southeast Missourian announces a DRAFT of a new policy regarding misdemeanor crimes reported in the newspaper. For the next two weeks (until August 8) we will take comments on the changes. News management, publisher and assistant publisher will review the comments before finalizing policy...
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Farewell to a First Lady (7/17/18)It's been a beautiful love story: Ken and Jeanine Dobbins. Together, they cared for each other in their careers, supported each other with their own and extended families, and raised a proud son who forged his own success in family and work. Most will think of Ken Dobbins as one of the longest serving presidents of Southeast Missouri State University: a man who dedicated 24 years to Cape Girardeau in leadership at Southeast. ...
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A worldwide effort to save boys in trouble (7/11/18)Three cheers for the diving teams who helped save the Thai soccer boys from the flooded caves! Led by two Brits considered the "A Team" for dive rescue in the world, the group was heavily international. On Sunday, when the evacuations began, several sources indicated there were roughly 90 divers involved, 50 from overseas. Of the specific group who brought the first of the boys out, 13 of the 18 were international...
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Grieving for Maryland newspaper (7/5/18)It's easy to pick on the media. I receive phone calls weekly complaining about one thing or the other. Regularly, there are threats. Advertisers have said they would pull all their ads if the newspaper didn't do something they wanted; we didn't. They did. ...
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New lights brighten up Broadway streetscape (6/23/18)Driving down Broadway the other night (operative word: night) the trees along the road looked wonderful. Full and green. In fact, the whole streetscape popped: soft, clean, welcoming. That's when it dawned on me: the new lights are in and actually making a difference. Kudos to the City of Cape Girardeau for making the change!...
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The collateral damage of Mizzou's past failures (6/20/18)The editorial board of the Wall Street Journal slammed the University of Missouri last week for its "ambiguous" commitment to free speech, declining enrollment and expensive marketing campaign, writing: "Apparently, fewer parents want to send their kids to a school where activism eclipses academics." The editorial points out, "In May 2017, the university signed a $1.3 million contract for three years of outside PR help. ...
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Summer Arts Festival is can't-miss event (6/13/18)If you have kids or grandkids or are simply young at heart, you don't want to miss the 2018 Summer Arts Festival at the River Campus on Saturday, June 16. Activities are free! If you've been before -- this is the fifth annual event, and it gets bigger every year -- you already know how much fun the day is...
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Missouri takes breather as Greitens moves on (6/6/18)How blistering fast is the modern news cycle? Can you believe: It was only Friday that Gov. Eric Greitens signed his resignation letter and departed Missouri government. How quickly headlines move on. After months of scandal, the state is yearning for a break. ...
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Because of people like Phil Penzel (5/30/18)Some of the finest buildings in Southeast Missouri were built by Penzel Construction. Last week, its president and CEO, mindful of potential conflicts of interest with upcoming opportunities, resigned from the Jackson Board of Aldermen. It was a class act by a class guy, saving the city from the complications of him stepping out of discussions or abstaining on a regular basis. ...
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Ray Ritter, head of a family, pillar of a community (5/23/18)A pillar of the medical community for many decades, Dr. Ray Ritter died last week, surrounded by family. He had a distinguished medical career, which included performing the first total hip replacement in Southeast Missouri and the second in the state of Missouri. At different times, he was president of the medical staff at Saint Francis Medical Center and Southeast Hospital. His list of education and professional accomplishments is long...
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Beware the lava, the quicksand, President Trump and Speaker Pelosi! (5/16/18)Anyone with young kids today has probably heard the phrase, "Stop. The ground is hot lava!" I have no idea where the game originated, but each of my girls has bellowed it out at some point, followed by careful walking on ground free of the pretend, hot magma. Sometimes, when traversing, say, a checkered green-and-white floor, the lava might only be the green squares, leaving a relatively safe way to cross a room...
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Cape Christian School rises to new opportunity (5/9/18)There is an inspirational story developing in Cape Girardeau, and it revolves around the resurrection of a beloved, academically elevated school whose future just weeks earlier was in doubt. For more than 42 years, Cape Christian School has transformed boys and girls with a mission to "educate students in a Christ-centered community where the Word of God is preeminent in all curricular and co-curricular instruction."...
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The dirty downside of downtown development (5/2/18)At first, perhaps displaying a bit of paranoia and conspiracy thinking on my part, I thought the culprit was someone protesting the newspaper. Each week, for several weeks, just outside the Southeast Missourian's front entrance: a giant pile of dog poop...
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Melvin Gateley represented the best of community service in Cape Girardeau (4/25/18)A search for "Melvin Gateley" in the Southeast Missourian's internal digital archives, which go back to 1990, results in 740 stories. That's a lot. Melvin Gateley was a man who represented the best of community service, whether through his occupation (37 years in public education) or through his volunteer work, including as leader of the city's Vision 2000 and 2020 committees, on the city council for eight years, through active roles on many civic organizations, and as planter of thousands of rose bushes around town. ...
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Open, respectful debate important for public trust (4/11/18)On Friday afternoon new Cape Girardeau mayor Bob Fox read a proclamation identifying a long list of city achievements during the mayoral tenure of Harry Rediger, followed by a standing ovation from those packed into City Hall chambers. Rediger was humble in his response, citing staff and council but ultimately the voters: "Our citizens are our greatest partner. Without their support, their yes votes, these accomplishments would not have happened."...
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Missouri should follow Utah on child neglect law (4/4/18)My wife and I live in an apartment across the street from a park. For years, we've allowed our girls to play in the park on their own, drawing chalk mermaids on the sidewalk, kicking soccer balls and tossing something similar to a "Frisbee." For a long time, their favorite activity was simply gathering twigs and playing school. ...
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Yes vote on stormwater, parks initiative is good for Cape Girardeau (3/24/18)Stormwater is a major concern in Cape Girardeau, and if citizens had not supported city leaders in the past with tax dollars, then significant areas of town would continue to flood during heavy rains. When I was growing up, several feet of floodwater was not abnormal in even the town's busiest areas -- around the Town Plaza; along Broadway; at West End and Independence -- which are no longer inundated during heavy storms. Still, flash flooding persists, and more work is necessary...
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Missouri Tech Corporation picks a winner in 1st50k (3/21/18)The Marquette Tech District Foundation receiving $400,000 in funding to grow the 1st50K start-up competition is good news for Cape Girardeau and the area. Not only will these funds connect tech startups to downtown Cape Girardeau (and thus Missouri), but they enhance momentum around attracting creative talent to our area. Attracting such talent is vital to a community's economic prosperity...
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How reading a newspaper can be good for your life (3/14/18)If you're reading this column in a printed newspaper, then you may already be aware of this phenomenon. But a New York Times technology writer recently went two months getting his news only from newspapers, and what he discovered was a calmer, more informed, and more fulfilling life. The experience transformed his outlook on news, especially via social media...
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Saint Francis, Southeast in talks about new health care services (3/7/18)A big healthcare development is brewing in Cape Girardeau, which could lead to the two major hospitals working together in a new line of business sorely needed in the area. When interviewed about the potential project by new area business publication B Magazine, the CEOs for Saint Francis and SoutheastHealth shared details but asked for the magazine to hold off on reporting specifics until further hurdles were cleared. ...
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A few stories about local and national heroes (2/28/18)Here are some quick notes about goings-on in Cape Girardeau -- and my story about meeting Rev. Billy Graham. School shootings and the political machinations afterwards, a governor indictment, Russian meddling and Facebook failings, could there have been any better timing than now for Southeast Missouri State University to produce a feel-good performance of "Mary Poppins" at the River Campus? The students were magnificent -- the singing and dancing, wow -- and the well-known story was uplifting in more ways than one -- filled with important morals about imagination, kindness, family and agency for good.. ...
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What do the Olympics and presidential politics have in common? (2/21/18)The Olympics snuck up on me this year. In years past, we've at least taped the opening ceremony to watch at leisure. The extravaganza often is a charming way to learn about what the host country thinks is important to share with the world. Not this year. We missed it. Maybe it's because we just don't watch TV as much as we did. Or, when the TV is on, it's to watch something other than broadcast -- for example, youtube or Netflix -- and we missed all the advance promotion...
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Of AT&T's bonuses, Trump tax cuts and Valentine's Day wishes (2/14/18)Rep. Jason Smith was in Cape Girardeau Monday to tour the AT&T call center, where its 240 local employees received $1,000 bonuses end of last year. The bonuses were "because of the tax plan" passed by Congress and signed by President Trump, said John Sondag, president Missouri AT&T. In Smith's congressional district, more than 600 AT&T employees received the $1,000 bonus...
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Eagles QB Nick Foles inspires off the field (2/7/18)Kudos to Nick Foles for leading the Philadelphia Eagles to victory over the New England Patriots and being named Super Bowl MVP. I didn't watch the game live, but I read about it in the Southeast Missourian, and it sounded like a barnburner. (I did watch a few highlights on youtube: More about that later.) Foles threw for three touchdowns and caught another, the first time in history a player has both passed for and caught a TD pass in the Super Bowl...
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Jason Smith's view of 2017; Gov. Greiten's cuts to higher ed (1/31/18)Rep. Jason Smith stopped by the Southeast Missourian offices to meet with the editorial board on Wednesday, Jan. 24. He provided a forceful update of hot topic issues in the Congress, displaying a deep knowledge of the details, while also touting successes in the first year of the Trump administration...
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What kind of a man is our governor? (1/24/18)Do you want to know what happens when a person starts to write a regular newspaper column? Others start emailing and contacting the columnist with ideas. This week's main topic: Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens and his admitted affair. I have little to add, other than sadness and disappointment about what is bubbling up all around the country: men behaving badly, despicably, potentially criminally. ...
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Ice, snow, murder and prosecutor Larry Ferrell (1/17/18)The snow and ice have created plenty of problems in the area. But for my four girls (and friends), it's been fun sledding. Favorite location? County Park North. The lake area was closed to traffic, meaning a side road was safe from cars and covered in ice, which made it more like riding a bobsled than anything else. But great fun!...
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Farewell to a city leader, plus more about Facebook (1/10/18)Cape Girardeau lost a distinguished leader last week: Loretta Schneider, the first woman elected to the Cape Girardeau City Council. She was 81. Schneider served three different stints on the council, originally being elected in 1981; her last term ended April 2016...
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Are Google, Facebook good for America? (1/3/18)For Facebook and Google: How good was 2017? In my industry, we follow what they do closely — and I’ve had the opportunity to visit both headquarters to learn from their management. Whip smart, impressive, creative people work there. And, financially, they’re soaring. In 2017, the two companies accounted for 84 percent of all digital advertising (outside China), including 96 percent of its growth, according to industry forecasts by Magna and GroupM...
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Life in Cape Girardeau: My top stories in 2017 (12/30/17)With four girls between the ages of 5 and 13, my wife, Victoria, and I don't get to the cinema often. But as part of Thanksgiving festivities, we joined much of our extended family with girls in tow (or, more accurately, the other way around) to watch "Wonder," the heart-tugging, inspiring and uplifting film about a 10-year old boy born with facial differences who enters school with others for the first time. ...
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Jet service from Cape off to good start (12/20/17)During the past four years, I flew Cape Air to St. Louis twice. In the first four weeks of jet service from Cape to Chicago, I will match that number -- with additional trips already being planned. My first flight on United Express (operated by SkyWest) was last week and the trip was all one could hope for: fast, smooth and without any trouble. ...
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'Paint for a Cause' honors veterans, raises funds (6/28/17)Ever wanted to thank local U.S. veterans in a way that is personal, meaningful and fun? At the SEMO District Fair this September, you can do so by taking part in a "Paint for a Cause" project, the brainchild of local artist and Navy Seabee veteran Aaron Horrell...
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Safe House for Women celebrates 25 years (6/11/17)Congratulations to the Safe House for Women, which celebrated its Silver Anniversary at a heartfelt and uplifting luncheon on Friday, June 9, which was key noted by Missouri Director of Public Safety, Drew Juden. Several hundred were in attendance at the Isle Casino Cape Girardeau Event Center...
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New policy for semissourian.com online commentary: No pseudonyms (4/17/17)The Southeast Missourian's web and mobile site, www.semissourian.com, is changing its "online comments" policy, effective 9 a.m., April 17. Pseudonyms -- or anonymous comments -- will no longer be allowed at the end of news stories or in news forums. Those already making comments will need to confirm that they know their real names will now be attached before new comments can be made...
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A Russian child in Cape, a study of U.S. visa policy (2/5/17)My wife and I welcomed an 11-year-old girl from Russia into our family last summer. She is my wife's relative, and she had been placed in an orphanage by her struggling father a couple of years ago. It took us more than a year -- and several trips to the embassy in Moscow -- for her to receive the proper visas to visit and then study in the United States. She is here now, a ray of sunshine, studying hard, in an environment that offers love, stability and support...
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Tribute to Gary Rust, American entrepreneur (10/9/16)The following are remarks delivered at the dedication of the Rust Center for Media, Oct. 7, 2016. I, too, would like to offer my thanks and congratulations to Southeast Missouri State University. The Department of Mass Media has accomplished much in recent years, particularly under chairs Dr. Baldwin and now Dr. Hollerbach, having largely revamped its curriculum...
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Marquette project applauded -- almost universally -- around community (4/24/16)The response to the Marquette development in Cape Girardeau has been overwhelmingly positive. Where criticism exists, it is largely centered on historic tax credits and tax increment financing (TIF). As part of a group (an investment company owned by my brothers and me) that seriously considered being investors in the project (but declined), let me share a perspective...
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Cape Chamber dinner marked by special touches (2/2/16)There were several special touches to the Cape Chamber's Annual Dinner on Friday night. Dan Drury, president of MidAmerica Hotels, provided substance to an evening of thanks and recognitions by highlighting the predicted economic impact of the city's soon-to-be-under-construction sports complex near Center Junction, where his company provided a plan and donated land, among other things. ...
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New website designed to better serve readers (1/19/16)If you're reading this column in print, be sure to go online or, better yet, check out semissourian.com on your smartphone. What you'll see is a big change from what semissourian.com has looked like in the past. Led by editor Bob Miller, webmaster James Baughn and a team at rustmedia, the site has been redesigned to better service how people access digital content today -- and for how they are predicted to access it in the future...
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Our mistake on the sports complex story (5/7/15)Providing accurate information to the community is a paramount goal of this newspaper. On a big story this week, we messed up. The City of Cape Girardeau is deliberating the development of a sports complex, funded by taxpayer dollars, to draw visitors to town for major sports tournaments during times of the year when hotels here traditionally have higher vacancy. ...
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University makes right choice in next president (3/5/15)On Wednesday Dr. Carlos Vargas-Aburto was announced by the Board of Regents to succeed Dr. Ken Dobbins as president of Southeast Missouri State University. Vargas is acting president of Kutztown University, a regional university (like Southeast) of around 9,500 students located in rural Pennsylvania. He has a distinguished record in higher education, both as an educator and as an administrator...
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Do you trust this newspaper? (10/27/14)Should you trust this newspaper? In the past several decades, the confidence Americans have in institutions has ebbed. According to Gallup, only "the military" has increased in esteem. "Small business" and "the criminal justice system" have held steady. ...
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Ken and Jeanine Dobbins will leave impressive legacy (9/10/14)Tucked inside the River Campus is a dance studio named after Ken and Jeanine Dobbins. It is a functional room -- with a striking view -- that provides students the opportunity to study with top-notch instructors. Or to practice and learn on their own. The Dobbinses made a significant, but quiet gift, without fanfare, several years ago to help make the studio possible...
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Sonny Gilbert: Inspiration for the Spirit of America (7/8/14)Friday night, July 4, the remarkable Mary Kasten was recognized with the Southeast Missourian Spirit of America Award just before the downtown fireworks in Cape Girardeau. In accepting the award, she eloquently gave tribute to all the great, patriotic men and women in this area, who have helped this nation prosper, and who make this area such a special place to live. ...
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Overcoming obstacles: A speaker who inspires (6/20/14)On Wednesday night the team at the newspaper putting together the Semoball Awards, led by editorial page editor Lucas Presson, was prepped for a dress rehearsal of the awards show. The program is going to be heavily video-oriented, a la an ESPN Espy's show. And the videos and photographs of high school athletes looked great. The music pulsed. The introductory video for keynote speaker Ozzie Smith was inspirational...
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Column: Downtown Cape Girardeau is doing it right with CID (4/20/14)I am usually sympathetic to the perspective of the St. Louis-based Show Me Institute, whose writer David Stokes in a nearby column cautions the City of Cape Girardeau about the establishment of a Community Improvement District in the downtown. But in this case Stokes strokes with too broad a brush, failing to understand the specifics of the effort in Cape Girardeau. ...
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Hospital costs under scrutiny (1/13/13)Last week the St. Louis Post-Dispatch printed a front-page story about the hospitals in Cape Girardeau, which included an unfortunate and misleading headline: "Unhealthy competition." The premise of the story was included in a paragraph soon after: "Cape Girardeau, the largest medical community between Memphis and St. ...
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Welcome to the world, Elizaveta Sophia (8/12/12)My daughter Yuliana, now 7, called me on the phone recently, her voice muffled and a pitch below normal. She was pretending to be her mother. "Hello Darling, this is Victoria. How are you?" "I'm wonderful, how are you?" "Well, I forgot the name we decided to call the baby. Can you remind me?"...
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New policy: Print subscribers to receive unlimited access to semissourian.com (1/16/12)When the Southeast Missourian launched a metered pay system for our website last summer, the major criticism was that print subscribers were asked to pay an additional $2.95 per month to maintain unlimited premium access. Although that rate was much less than the monthly $7.95 paid by those who didn't subscribe to the print newspaper, print subscribers still voiced their displeasure. Well, we've got some great news...
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Innovation in medical care (6/26/11)I had an opportunity to attend a private open house at Saint Francis' new Heart Hospital Cancer Institute on Wednesday night. It included an impressive tour of a facility that places Cape Girardeau at the forefront in this vital area of medical care with inspired patient considerations and the best -- beyond words -- technology available...
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Adventures in Russia: Family trip complicated by spy exchange (7/25/10)It is among the joys of international marriage that nearly every summer I visit my wife's family abroad. Her family is charming and full of love and support, which often manifests itself in ways we might think old fashioned. Cherished are the lovingly cooked meals (everything is made from scratch, often with fresh vegetables from the garden and homemade cheese, pickles and fresh milk.), a delivery of fresh sand for little ones to play on, a homemade swing, freshly picked berries, trips to the river to swim, and the sharing of ice cream, among other simple joys.. ...
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Innuendo: Bad politics (6/10/10)A few months ago congressional candidate Tommy Sowers stopped by the Southeast Missourian offices to introduce himself. Over the past few months, I've met with him a couple of times. He has a distinguished background, asks important questions -- and is sharp. He is also highly aggressive in attacking his opponent. This style has shown itself in his media tactics as well...
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What's up? Page 2 (7/15/09)One of the frustrations in the newspaper business is when I run into someone and they say, "I wish there were a place people could find out what's happening in town." These are usually folks who are organizing events, and they want to get their message to the public. And, the truth is, the newspaper has historically been the "town crier" for such events. In fact, we dedicate thousands of pages a year telling people about upcoming events...
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Media icons and sports notables (6/29/09)Two remarkable individuals were recognized at the Southeast Missouri Press Association meeting recently. They are Joni Adams Bliss, who was the inspirational managing editor of this newspaper for many years before departing to lead Southeast Missouri Hospital's Internet operations; and Mildred Walhausen, who was a newspaper woman in Charleston, Mo., for 73 years, including four decades as publisher of The Enterprise-Courier. ...
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McCaskill, Emerson, Bond:Examples of good government (6/7/09)I received a letter this week about the relief one local resident felt that the former federal building in Cape Girardeau would not be turned into a homeless shelter targeting a 22-county area. Among her comments, "I prefer you don't include my note in the paper because I'm active at church and with local missions. Some may think I'm 'talking out of both sides of my mouth.'"...
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Excerpts from Larry Rice's past: Homeless activist leaves trail of headlines (5/19/09)Television preacher Larry Rice, who has applied to turn the old federal building in Cape Girardeau into a homeless shelter, certainly has a way with words. On one day he's telling viewers on his TV channel that his religious work is in dire need of money and implores them to go onto his website and contribute...
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Same old tactics from Larry Rice (5/15/09)"Give me keys to another building at no cost, and I'll drop my claim on the federal building." That's the message Larry Rice delivered through the Southeast Missourian on Wednesday to city hall. That's what called a "shakedown" in some corners of the world. ...
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Homeless issues (5/13/09)I gave the Rev. Larry Rice the benefit of the doubt for a period of time as he talked about his plans to turn the old federal building in downtown Cape Girardeau into a homeless shelter. While I believe his plan would be harmful to downtown Cape, which is developing momentum in its rehabilitation, a community's economic development isn't Rice's goal, nor does it have to be. As he told this newspaper, "As long as there is one homeless person, there is a problem."...
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Hello, Katya (4/26/09)My wife Victoria and I welcomed a new daughter last week. Born April 14, at 7:12 a.m., Ekaterina Ava Rust arrived -- singing. By this I'm not trying to create a pleasant description of her crying, because she does plenty of that, especially between 11 at night and 5 in the morning. ...
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A case for preservation tax credits (4/12/09)Undoing Missouri's historic preservation tax credits would be short-sighted. Filibustering them at the expense of bipartisan economic development legislation is simply bad government.
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Wild plane ride to Missouri (4/10/09)It was tough to miss the story about the suicidal Canadian man, born in Turkey, who stole a plane and flew it halfway down the United States, hoping to be shot out of the sky by U.S. fighter jets. He landed on a rural road near Ellsinore, Mo., where he was arrested after hitchhiking to a convenience store...
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Innovation 2009 (2/22/09)The stock market dropped beneath its three-month low last week and scraped its lowest point in 12 years, breaking through a psychological threshold that economists hope won't lead to emotional selling and another plunge. National economic news remains troubling, and a new president and divided Congress struggle to instill confidence during difficult times...