Mostly Cloudy ~ 40°F   River stage: 12.84 ft. Rising Saturday, Jan. 31, 2015

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Editorials Seakhawks, Patriots meet for Super Bowl XLIX (01/30/15) On Sunday, millions will spend four or more hours, possibly with friends or at a party, and watch one of the biggest sporting events: the Super Bowl. Super Bowl XLIX will be a matchup between the Seattle Seahawks, the defending champions, and the New England Patriots... Seyer recognized with annual Dingeldein Award (01/29/15) Cape Girardeau has become more of an art hub over the years. Between music events, to sculptures, paintings, photos and other displays, there's plenty to appreciate. This is possible because of many people, and each year the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri recognizes one individual for his or her efforts with the Otto F. Dingeldein Award and another individual or group with the Friend of the Arts Award... Area legislators named to committee leadership (01/28/15) The 2015 session for the Missouri General Assembly has begun, and a few local lawmakers have been tapped for committee leadership positions. House Speaker John Diehl (R-Town and Country) named 55 chairmen in the House to committees. New this session is a different committee structure, something Diehl believes will strengthen the drafting of bills and better connect representatives with their areas of expertise... New history center to open in March (01/27/15) This area is rich with history, and local individuals and groups have made efforts to highlight different historical themes. Another one to add to the list is the Cape Girardeau County History Center. A recent story in the Southeast Missourian highlighted the forthcoming facility, which will be located at 102 S. ... Young professionals connect during networking events (01/26/15) The Cape Girardeau area is building a reputation for having a thriving communicative atmosphere for young business professionals. As established in a story written by Savanna Maue last week, networking opportunities have formed over the years to help business professionals connect and pick the brains of other businessmen and businesswomen in the area... New competition aims to spur entrepreneurship (01/25/15) Local business leaders and economic development partners are putting their minds and resources together in an attempt to spur more innovation and entrepreneurship in Cape Girardeau. These partners have begun a new competition, called the 1st50K. According to a recent story written by Erin Ragan, the competition will take applications yearround. Cash grants will be up to $50,000 and will be coupled with pro-bono business services and access to successful entrepreneurs... Opera comes to Cape Girardeau's River Campus (01/23/15) This weekend, opera comes to Cape Girardeau at the River Campus. The opera is two one-act shows from Gian Carlo Menotti. "Amahl and the Night Visitors" is a take on the three wise men's journey to Bethlehem. "Amelia Goes to the Ball" is about an Italian woman who wants to go to an evening ball. It's an Italian script, but for those interested in a translation, one will be provided... Awards given to Jackson leaders at chamber banquet (01/22/15) Local Chambers of Commerce make it a priority to help recognize leaders in the community. On Friday it was the Jackson Chamber that held its annual dinner and awards ceremony. Awards recipients included: n Terri Tomlin, Jackson School Board president, who received the R.A. Fulenwider Meritorious Community Service Award. The recognition goes to an individual who has made contributions to the community... Southeast Hall of Fame inducts new members (01/21/15) A number of outstanding athletes have made their mark on Southeast Missouri State University. On Friday night, four individuals, one team and one family were recognized for their efforts during the university's Hall of Fame banquet. The new members of the honorary group include Derek Winans, Donald Metz, Mary Kate Farrington, Angel Rubio, the 2000 volleyball team and the Rust Family... Kermit Meystedt remembered for generosity, leadership (01/20/15) Local businessman Kermit Meystedt is remembered for a number of things, including his success in athletics and in sports. But for many, it was his Christian faith and his generosity that will be most remembered. Meystedt, founder of Genesis Transportation, died Jan. 10 at the age of 69... Editorial: Honoring King's legacy with peace (01/19/15) Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., will be honored across our nation today, a holiday reserved to celebrate his life, vision and leadership. King gave hundreds of speeches during his lifetime and in his role in the civil rights movement in the 1960s. Of course, he is most known for his closing remarks in his famous and oft-quoted "I Have a Dream" speech... Cape manages major improvement without fee or tax increase (01/18/15) It's not all that often that a local government pulls off a large capital project without needing to increase taxes or fees. But that is just what the city of Cape Girardeau is doing with its transfer station. An upgraded transfer station has for many years been on the city's improvement list. Along with the police station, the transfer station is a high priority... Coach Tuke presented inspiring talk at prayer breakfast (01/16/15) More than 400 men attended the recent Men's Prayer Breakfast at the Ray's Plaza Banquet Center in Cape Girardeau. The event, held for the first time, marked a fellowship of prayer. An inspiring keynote message was given by Southeast Missouri State football coach Tom Matukewicz... Messiah Choir to perform selections from timeless piece (01/16/15) There is perhaps no other piece of music better known or appreciated than the "Messiah," written by George Frideric Handel. The music was written in what is believed to be 24 days. The words, selected from Scripture, were compiled by Charles Jennens... Cardinals caravan comes to SEMO basketball game (01/15/15) This is a big weekend for St. Louis Cardinals fans. The organization will hold its annual Winter Warmup Saturday through Monday at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch. Players will be on hand to sign autographs and participate in festivities. The 57th annual dinner hosted by the St. Louis Baseball Writers Association is set for 6 p.m. Sunday in St. Louis... Students learn team work through robotics (01/14/15) There are many things a high school student could be doing on a Saturday morning. Yet, for a number of local students, and others outside the area, the first Saturday of 2015 was spent at the Show Me Center competing to see what team made the best robot... Cape airport ends 2014 flying high (01/13/15) The Cape Girardeau Regional Airport had a successful year in 2014. Several years ago Commander Premier Aircraft Corp. was to begin a small plane production company at the Cape Girardeau airport. However, the company failed to make lease payments dating back to 2007. It was evicted in 2011 but had not vacated the hanger. In May that changed, and the company cleared the 52,000-square foot facility... Editorial: Runners help disabled people run races, cross the finish line (01/12/15) Our communities never cease to inspire us in the ways they find to give of themselves. One of the many recent examples is the myTEAM TRIUMPH one-mile "fun run" event held on New Year's Day. As reported by Emily Priddy, the participants of myTEAM TRIUMPH combine able-bodied individuals helping those with disabilities run races. ... Editorial: Many interests, complications at play in county courthouse plan (01/11/15) The Cape Girardeau County Commission began Thursday night to formally introduce to the public plans to build the county's first courthouse since 1908. The concept isn't all that complex in terms of what the commission (and the committee formed to study the issue) would like to do. But it is complicated regarding who will or will not support the effort... Leist a remarkable man who loved people, music (01/09/15) It's a blessing to love what you do for a living. Others can tell and appreciate it. That was the case with former Jackson High School band director Nick Leist. Leist died on Sunday at the age of 74. The outpouring of support on social media and to the story by the Southeast Missourian showed how many lives "Mr. Music" touched... Parker Lipke shows heart of compassion (01/08/15) Parker Lipke is an impressive young man. While most others his age are probably more interested in video games, sports and other activities, 12-year-old Lipke has a heart to help others. Son of Judge Scott Lipke and his wife Ashley Lipke, Parker Lipke had considered going on a mission trip for two years. When an opportunity arose to join a Heart for Africa team and travel to Swaziland, Africa, Parker knew it was his calling from God... Men's prayer breakfast a good event to begin 2015 (01/07/15) A new year brings an opportunity to start fresh. For many, prayer is key: praying for families, friends, community and country, to name few. It's also a time to give thanks for the blessings God has given us. On Thursday, a men's prayer breakfast will be held at the Ray's of Kelso Convention Center in Cape Girardeau. Breakfast begins at 6 a.m., and the program will start at 6:45 a.m. and end at 7:30 a.m... Naming center after Dobbins duo appropriate (01/06/15) Naming buildings or portions of a facility is not a new concept for academic institutions, and Southeast Missouri State University has its share of buildings named after influential people who made their mark on the university. This is the case when an institution honors someone for their support, monetarily or otherwise. The action also serves as a historical reference... Food banks can use more than food (01/05/15) We have a number of groups that do important work in the area to feed the hungry. Providing this nourishment for those who have minimal resources is vital. But also important are the other things many take for granted. A story in the Dec. 23 Southeast Missourian by Emily Priddy highlighted other ways people can help... Basketball player inspires with perseverance (01/04/15) If you would like a bit of inspiration to start 2015, we hope you read the story of Blake Schlitt in the Dec. 29 Southeast Missourian. Schlitt attends Oran High School and plays basketball. But an accident in 2013 nearly derailed any future time playing the game he loves. In 2013 the junior forward volunteered with a church group called CYC (Cool Young Christians). While preparing dinner at the church his left hand was caught in a meat grinder... Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament a fun four days (01/02/15) The championship game of the 70th annual Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament turned out to be a classic match of two schools from Cape Girardeau County. The Notre Dame Bulldogs led most of the game over the Jackson Indians. With under 4 minutes Jackson appeared to be cruising with a lead of 14 points. ... Celebrate the new year with 'Auld Lang Syne' (12/31/14) Editor's note: The following is our annual New Year's Eve editorial. Tonight we celebrate the beginning of a new year. And the song that many will sing as the clock strikes midnight is "Auld Lang Syne." Here is an excerpt of the song. Should old acquaintance be forgot,... Scott County deputy honored for heroic effort (12/30/14) Those who work in public safety have a challenging job. These are men and women who work to help others and, in doing so, put their lives on the line. Some have paid the ultimate sacrifice. While the daily work should be recognized, there are times when personnel go above and beyond. That is the case with Justin Wooten, a deputy with the Scott County Sheriff's Department... Cheerleaders bring school spirit, learn lessons (12/29/14) We are in the midst of the Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament. Several days of basketball, with hoops enthusiasts filling the Show Me Center to watch their school team play. If you make it to the games, you are likely to see cheerleaders and other school spirit groups. These students do more than show up at game time. They practice, go to games, participate in camps. There is rarely down time... Another step taken toward opening Cape business park (12/28/14) There is good progress being made at the Cape Girardeau Business Park, the future home of a Pepsi Mid-America distribution center. The Southeast Missourian reported recently AT&T was nearing completion of installing fiber-optic cable that will have the ability to provide high-speed network connection to businesses located at the park... Editorial: Join the fun at the Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament (12/26/14) This year's Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament starts at 9 a.m. today at the Show Me Center. It's a wide-open and unpredictable field this year. Jackson, the returning champ, is the top seed, but lost quite a bit of talent off last year's squad. There is no guarantee the Indians will repeat... Editorial: The Christmas story (12/24/14) It is a simple story, but the birth in a stable some 2,000 years ago changed the world. On this Christmas Eve, as is tradition in the Southeast Missourian, the story is told again from the Holy Bible (the Gospel according to St. Luke, Chapter 2): And it came to pass in those days that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one unto his own city... Editorial: Student Santas group preparing Christmas meal (12/23/14) A local group is planning a Christmas meal that could feed up to 400 people. The Student Santas group will serve a meal from noon to 4 p.m. Christmas Day at the Central Junior High School cafeteria. Isle Casino Cape Girardeau is donating meat for the event; Ryan's steakhouse is contributing vegetables, rolls and desserts; and more than 50 volunteers are scheduled to serve the meal, according to a recent story, written by reporter Emily Priddy, in the Southeast Missourian... Cape loses civic, business leader Gene Rhodes (12/22/14) Cape Girardeau lost an influential leader last week when former Mayor Francis "Gene" Rhodes died at the age of 88. Rhodes was mayor from 1986 to 1994. The city made great strides during his tenure, including the opening of the Show Me Center and fire station; the launch of a federal flood-control project; and the introduction of the ward system to the city's governing structure... Bateman to lead hospital through transition period (12/21/14) Southeast Missouri Hospital is experiencing an era of transition. The SoutheastHEALTH organization, which includes the Cape Girardeau Hospital, has been in a state of flux as it trims, reorganizes and attempts to be more competitive in an extremely competitive marketplace... Congratulations to graduating Southeast students (12/19/14) Saturday will be a memorable day for 680 students and their families as Southeast Missouri State University celebrates winter commencement. The honors ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Show Me Center. Among those being honored will be a student who will graduate with academic distinction in the department major; one student who will be recognized with honors in associate degrees; 69 who will graduate cum laude; 57 graduating magna cum laude; 21 graduating summa cum laude; and 11 honors program students.. ... Southeast Missouri historic churches ready for festive tour (12/18/14) Many of us enjoy the festive decoration this time of year. When the decorations are combined with a historic building, there is even more to appreciate. The 10th Annual Christmas Country Church Tour begins today and continues Friday with more than two dozen churches in Southeast Missouri... Public transportation increasingly important in county (12/17/14) Those who drive a vehicle to work, for pleasure or to run errands probably give minimal consideration to transportation other than the cost of purchasing a vehicle or when filling up at the gas station. For the most part, it's a cost we are willing to pay for the luxury of driving where we want, when we want... Deadline this week for Toybox donations (12/16/14) The deadline to have your monetary or gift donations in for Toybox and Christmas for the Elderly is Thursday. Toybox is the annual drive sponsored by the Jaycees and Southeast Missourian to provide toys for children in the city of Cape Girardeau who otherwise would receive none or few on Christmas Day... Several performances this month in Cape Girardeau (12/15/14) The River Campus at Southeast Missouri State University is the gift that keeps giving. On Thursday night, a touring group from Nebraska brought "A Christmas carol" to Cape Girardeau. Then on Saturday, the Southeast Missouri State University Percussion Ensemble presented two family holiday concerts... Syler served county well for two decades on the bench (12/14/14) Judge William Syler will serve his last day as Cape Girardeau County's circuit judge at the end of this month as Michael Gardner prepares to fill his shoes. And they are some big shoes to fill. Syler has honorably served his post for the last 22 years. The judge, now 66, could not serve another full term, according to state law that puts the age limit for Missouri judges at 70... Percussion ensemble to perform festive tunes Saturday (12/12/14) There are some events worth beating the drum to promote. Saturday's Family Holiday Concerts featuring the Southeast Missouri State University percussion ensemble is one. The annual concert is a dynamic show, featuring plenty of talented students who play favorite Christmas songs, including "We Three Kings," "Frosty/Rudolph/Santa Medley" and "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen." There are many more, too... Local Christmas shopping helps our community (12/11/14) 'Tis the season for shopping and finding Christmas gifts for friends and family. We hope you have started your list this year, but if not there's still time to check out many local businesses with great deals. The Southeast Missourian ran a special section on local businesses and organizations that look forward to your business this month. This is a way to spotlight some of the local merchants that sell unique items. Even better, these are a few of the people who reinvest in the local economy... Area volunteers help feed thousands (12/10/14) Thankfully, most in this country do not know starvation. Even the poorest in the United States would be considered well cared for in other countries, where poverty and starvation are catastrophic. Feed My Starving children is a faith-based program that has helped many people around the world with food. Locally, thousands have helped through mobile food- packing outreaches... Tailor Institute continues to help those with autism (12/09/14) What started as one man's vision now continues without the founder leading the way. Earlier this year Dr. David Crowe died after fighting brain cancer. Crowe was a local orthodontist who also had a gift for photography. But he's often remembered foremost as the founder of the Tailor Institute, an organization that helps those with autism develop their gifts. Beyond the services provided, it's also been an avenue to help others know more about autism... K-9 units useful for important police work (12/08/14) Some of the most overlooked cops walk with four legs. Police dogs serve the community. A recent story in the Southeast Missourian highlighted that Cape Girardeau is fortunate enough to have two police dogs, both German shepherds. These amazing dogs help in many different ways, from helping sniff out drugs to subduing fleeing suspects to serving as backup... Editorial: Remembering our WWII vets on Pearl Harbor Day (12/07/14) At 7:55 a.m. on this day in 1941, the U.S. was attacked by Japan bombers. Today we salute those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor and throughout World War II. Very few WWII veterans are still alive today. To those who remain with us, we thank you... Year-end giving can help local not-for-profits (12/03/14) Throughout the year we use this space to applaud different organizations for their efforts. Many of these are not-for-profit groups that depend on donations to keep their doors open and help others. The Christmas season can bring out goodwill and generosity, and we look for this generosity to continue this holiday season... Central football finishes historic season (12/02/14) The Cape Girardeau Central High School football season finished a history-making campaign on Saturday. The Tigers made the school's first trip to the state championship game for Class 4 football. Their opponent, Webb City, won the previous four state titles going into Saturday's contest. But Central was undeterred. It opened the game with 14-0 lead. Despite the early start by the Tigers, the Webb City Cardinals came back and won a fifth consecutive championship by a score of 48-21... City of Cape sees recycling participation on the rise (12/01/14) The participation in recycling in Cape Girardeau continues to increase. As reported by journalist Samantha Rinehart in a recent Southeast Missourian story, more than 4,300 households now use the recycling system, jumping from 2,800 before a new system was implemented in 2009. A city official roughly estimated 80 percent of households participate in the recycling program monthly... Christmas parade tonight; downtown open house Friday (11/30/14) If you didn't get a chance to shop downtown on Small Business Saturday, there are plenty of opportunities yet to see the beautiful and festive downtown area of the city. This evening, consider coming to the downtwon Parade of Lights. The parade begins at dusk in Capaha Park and travels down Broadway to Main Street, ending at Hutson's Fine Furniture... Celebrating high school sports championships (11/28/14) We celebrate all of our local sports teams and applaud them for their efforts. But when a team goes all the way and wins a championship, it's a special thing. Recently the Perryville boys soccer team won the Class 2 state championship. Perryville (29-1) had a strong second half in the championship contest that included six goals. They won over Soldan International Studies by a score of 7-0... Today we take time for a day of thanks (11/27/14) Editor's note: The following is the editorial board's annual Thanksgiving Day editorial. Come, ye thankful people, come, Raise the song of harvest-home; All is safely gathered in, Ere the winter storms begin. -- Henry Alford (1810-1871) "Come, Ye Thankful People, Come"... Helping those in need stay warm (11/26/14) Though the official start of winter is one month away, this area has already felt the chill and experienced some snow. There will be many more cold days ahead, and for most people it means increased utility bills. Missouri residents who meet standards may be eligible to receive assistance with the expense through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which is run through the Missouri Department of Social Services... We celebrate successful women among us (11/25/14) For 10 years the local Zonta organization, at an annual banquet, has recognized leading women for their success. Each year the nominees are impressive. These are women who have set goals and have reached them, and continue to strive for excellence. On Friday the organization held its annual luncheon and recognized several women... Celebrating the virtues of drug court (11/24/14) An addiction to drugs and alcohol is one of the most heartbreaking afflictions imaginable, particularly for surrounding family. They watch as their loved one turns into someone else. Addictions can turn people into thieves, liars and worse. They lead to bad, life-altering decisions, even suicide... Editorial: Matheny impresses despite emotional, challenging day (11/23/14) More than 1,600 people had the pleasure of hearing St. Louis Cardinals manager Mike Matheny give a talk about leadership on Monday at the Arrow Leadership and Success Summit, sponsored by Saint Francis Medical Center. But it may be the story behind the scenes that will leave a greater impression. More on that later... Opportunities to help children, elderly at Christmas (11/21/14) 'Tis the season for shopping and gift-giving. But while you buys gifts for friends a families, we hope you consider purchasing some for those in need as well. Each year the Southeast Missourian and the Jaycees team up with Toybox and Christmas for the Elderly. Toybox provides toys for children and Christmas for the Elderly provides assistance to seniors who struggle to make ends meet. A story has appeared in the Southeast Missourian about the programs, and we wrote an editorial recently as well... 'Fall for Dance' begins tonight (11/20/14) Students at Southeast Missouri State University will perform "a roller-coaster ride" of a show this week for "Fall for Dance." The annual concert features six different performances in a one-act show. The subject matter ranges from more serious and "dark" themes to happy themes. Artistic coordinator Hilary Peterson wanted the overall production to be optimistic and fun for the audience... Event today to celebrate, cultivate entrepreneurs (11/19/14) Job creation in today's economy doesn't come easy. Many big corporations are scaling back, reinventing themselves or moving jobs overseas. Many of the jobs created in the United States today are done so by entrepreneurs. This week is Global Entrepreneurship Week... Editorial: Salvation Army needs help with Thanksgiving lunch (11/18/14) The Salvation Army every year provides a Thanksgiving lunch for the needy. This is a tremendous, humble time to provide a helping hand. There are plenty of ways for people to help. The Salvation Army needs food donations, ranging from turkeys and hams to table place mats and silverware. Donations may be dropped off at the Salvation Army at 701 Good Hope St. in Cape Girardeau... A time to help children, elderly at Christmas (11/17/14) Next week Americans will gather for Thanksgiving. Friends and families will enjoy food, fellowship and football. It's also the kickoff for the Christmas shopping season. Black Friday often brings long lines, with shoppers getting in a festive spirit leading up to Christmas... Matheny talk is about more than baseball (11/16/14) A servant's heart. Courage. Vision. All are words to describe what we hope to see in a leader. It's what inspires people, provides direction and a framework for success. On Monday night St. Louis Cardinals manager Mike Matheny will speak at the Show Me Center for the Arrow Leadership and Success Summit. This one-hour talk will feature Matheny speaking on leadership and its connection to Cardinals baseball. There also will be a question-and-answer session for the audience... Be safe as hunting season begins (11/14/14) The photos from bow season have likely popped up on your social media feed as avid hunters head to the woods. This weekend starts firearm season for hunting deer. For some, it's about the hunting and processing the meet for personal use or charity. For others, there is an added bonus of spending time in the woods with friends and family... Southeast basketball teams ready for season (11/13/14) The fall sports season flew by, and soon Southeast Missouri State University winter sports teams will kick off their seasons. Both the men's and women's basketball teams already have played exhibition games. The women's squad opens its season in Cape Girardeau Friday at the Show Me Center. The Redhawks will play Alabama A&M beginning at 6:30 p.m... A makeover that helps build confidence for women (11/12/14) November is a month we often think of the people and things we're thankful for. For some, things to be thankful for are basic like overcoming substance abuse. At the Gibson Recovery Center Inc.'s Vision House program, women can stay for 21 to 90 days to rise above these challenges and look for employment. About 11 women received a nice treat recently when they received a makeover that included hair styling, makeup and having eyebrows done for free by local businesses... Thanking veterans: Remember their service (11/11/14) Today we honor America's veterans. A day set aside to remember the sacrifice made by men and women, and countless families, who served the U.S. in war and during peacetime. The men and women in uniform are a special group of people. As we gather with friends and family later this month for Thanksgiving and next month for Christmas and New Year's, there will members of the armed forces who are away from family. ... Editorial: A warm thank you to those who have adopted children (11/10/14) November is National Adoption Month. Several events over the past couple of weeks have celebrated and elevated the virtues of adopting a child. Adopted people and adoptive parents have shared their stories in an effort to raise awareness. In the Missouri Children's Division Cape Girardeau circuit, there are 43 foster homes, a group home, 56 relative or kinship homes and 216 children in state custody... Trying new things at our schools (11/09/14) Those who follow baseball closely know that analytics are playing a huge role in how professional baseball teams build their teams. The book and movie, "Moneyball," introduced to the masses the idea that advanced statistics, much as was being done on Wall Street, could be used to better identify the value of a player. Teams that did not closely study advanced statistics were overpaying players who possessed skills that did not necessarily translate into wins. The numbers have changed the game... Southeast celebrates 75th year for Kent Library (11/07/14) In a world where electronic devices provide much information, it's easy to overlook libraries. But our local libraries are treasures for infomation-seekers. Today Southeast Missouri State University celebrates Kent Library's 75th anniversary. The library, which is positioned across from Academic Hall on campus, is more than a building with books. There are places to study, research and, yes, read... Ugly Quilt Weekend a unique way to help homeless (11/06/14) As fall moves on and temperatures cool, we often think of things to do within the comforts of home. But for some people, homelessness and the realty of living in the cold are all too real. Vic and Therese Pierce talked about a way to help those seeking warmth in the 1990s. ... It's Election Day; make your vote count (11/04/14) Today Americans have the opportunity to exercise their right to vote. To have free and fair elections is a centerpiece of our democracy. It's our opportunity to influence our government. In Missouri each of the congressional district seats is up for election. ... Newspaper celebrates 110 years (11/02/14) Last month, we celebrated our 110th anniversary at the Southeast Missourian. Last week, we published a special section commemorating the history and news during that time. We received quite a few comments of appreciation on the special section, and we loved hearing the feedback. ... Editorial: Cape Girardeau fire tax worth supporting (10/31/14) On Tuesday, voters will decide whether to approve a 1/8-cent sales tax to support the fire department. If approved, these funds will be used to purchase vehicles and apparatus and to build new facilities. The tax will generate about $1.2 million per year, and the tax is set to expire in 21 years... Salvation Army Empty Bowls fundraiser helps feed many (10/31/14) Feeding the hungry is not only a good things to do. It's Scriptural. Jesus told his disciples about the importance of helping others. He said in Matthew 25:35-36, "'For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'"... Fall festivals and several weekend events (10/30/14) Friday night there will be children walking neighborhoods for candy and dressed in costume for Halloween. It's not a particularly uplifting holiday, but there are some options for family-friendly fun. A popular tradition for some families is attending a fall festival. There are churches in the area who holds these festivals, which can include food, candy, games and other fun... Southeast, Three Rivers relationship is good for students (10/29/14) The relationship between Southeast Missouri State University and Three Rivers Community College has been tenuous in recent years. That's unfortunate, because students in Southeastern Missouri benefit when the institutions work together. But there's a fresh start now. Donna Farley of the Daily American Republic, a sister paper to the Southeast Missourian, recently spoke with the presidents of the two institutions. The story appeared in the Wednesday edition of the Southeast Missourian... Cape hospitals, first responders take Ebola seriously (10/28/14) On Saturday the World Health Organization said more than 10,000 people have been infected with Ebola. The number includes confirmed, probable and suspected cases. About half of those infected have died. The WHO said the numbers are likely underestimated... Congratulations to Cape educators of the year (10/27/14) Teaching is not an easy job. Some might call it a calling. And for those of us who have experienced the joy of learning from a great teacher, you know the importance. It's good to recognize those who go above and beyond to make a difference. Last week the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Educator Appreciation Reception at the Show Me Center. The reception was sponsored by Wood & Huston Bank... Midterm election offers several ballot issues (10/26/14) Nationally the midterm election on Nov. 4 is big news. The balance of power for the U.S. Senate is up for grabs, as are all members of the House of Representatives. But in Missouri neither of the U.S. senators are up for re-election. The only statewide official on the ballot is the auditor Tom Schweich, a Republican, who faces third party opposition but no Democratic opponent... Congratulations to local National Merit Scholarship semifinalists (10/23/14) Three seniors in high school have reached an impressive milestone by being named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. Alex Gentle of Cape Girardeau Central High School, Tyler Pech of Notre Dame Regional High School and Joshua Vogel of Saxony Lutheran High School each has different interests, but their success in the classroom and involvement in clubs and sports is a common thread. These young men have ambition, and that's a good thing... Online learning and a look at quality (10/22/14) The Internet has changed many things over the years. From online banking and bill paying, to entertainment options, to how you may be reading this editorial, digital devices, though not without flaws, can benefit us. Education is one of these categories, and recently a Southeast Missourian story looked at what Southeast Missouri State University is doing to improve quality in online courses... Newspaper to host wellness fair Wednesday (10/21/14) This community is a medical attraction for many. Across the area, people come to see doctors and receive treatment. There's a lot to learn about health care, and prevention and becoming knowledgeable is a good start. This week the Southeast Missourian and Healthwatch Magazine will host their first Wellness Fair. ... Learning about Down syndrome's challenges, misconceptions (10/20/14) Parents of children with Down syndrome know the challenges. They may not all be the same, but there are challenges. In a story that appeared in Tuesday's Southeast Missourian by reporter Tyler Graef, Sarah Kuntze shared her family's story about son Carter who has Down syndrome. ... Cape College Center name change is good step for partnership (10/19/14) A partnership between Southeast Missouri State University, Three Rivers College and Mineral Area College and operated in the Career and Technology Center in Cape Girardeau has been interesting to watch since its inception in the fall of 2010. Here you have three higher education institutions, housed in a fourth educational facility, and all with a goal of helping meet an educational need... Aaron Shust concert among weekend activities (10/17/14) Contemporary Christian music singer Aaron Shust will perform at Cape Bible Chapel tonight. Many recognize songs performed by Shust, though they might not make the initial connection. A few popular praise anthems he performs include "Cornerstone," "God of Brilliant Lights" and "No One Higher."... Great ShakeOut offers reminder alert preparedness (10/16/14) At 10:16 a.m. today local time many organizations will participate in drills as part of the Great ShakeOut, a national effort to make people aware of earthquake preparedness. Missouri and Illinois are among the states listed at highest risk for a damaging earthquake, according to a Wednesday story by reporter Samantha Rinehart in the Southeast Missourian. ... Matheny to talk on leadership at Arrow event (10/15/14) Mike Matheny has an impressive resume as manager of the St. Louis Cardinals. Three appearances in the National League Championship Series in three years. One National League title and currently in competition for another. The former catcher-turned-manager is trying to send the reining National League Champions back to the Fall Classic. But regardless of how the season turns out, Mike Matheny has made his mark in baseball and leadership... Annual fashion show a popular attraction with a cause (10/14/14) The stories of domestic abuse are heartbreaking. There's verbal abuse. There's physical abuse. And the emotional abuse it places on individuals and families can be significant. A two-part series in the Sunday and Monday editions of the Southeast Missourian looked at the issue, stories from victims and how abusers try to control them... Baptist Student Center celebrates 75 years (10/13/14) There are several campus ministries at Southeast Missouri State University that help students grow in their faith as they enter into their independent adult years. The Baptist Student Center is one of those organizations. It is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year... SEMO foundation announces $45 million in donations (10/12/14) The goal was huge. The outcome was even larger. The Southeast Missouri University Foundation recently announced that $45 million was raised in support of scholarships, programs and renovations that will benefit students. Dr. Ken Dobbins, university president, made the announcement last Saturday during Homecoming festivities... Redhawks football off to impressive start (10/10/14) It's impressive -- the start that coach Tom Matukewicz and the Southeast Missouri State football team have had so far this season. The team is 4-2 overall and 2-0 in the Ohio Valley Conference. They defeated two ranked programs in No. 3 Southeastern Louisiana and then No. ... The Southeast Missourian and general excellence (10/09/14) Being a good journalist has never been easy. Developing a great story requires so many elements. It takes time and dedication. Resourcefulness. Talent and skill. It takes innovation and instinct. It takes persistence. And knowledge. It takes personal sacrifice. Attention to detail. An artist's touch... Weber family shows compassion and inspires others (10/08/14) Nolan Weber inspired many people in his short life. The 16-year-old Jackson high school student was an athlete and a person of faith in God and had a positive attitude. Even during his battle with brain cancer, Weber lived his life. The Jackson community and others rallied around him. The affliction eventually took him from this world, but his memory, through a new foundation created by his family, lives on... Touching stories about breast cancer awareness (10/07/14) Few causes have generated as much awareness and support than Breast Cancer Awareness month during the month of October. SoutheastHEALTH and Saint Francis Medical Center partner during the month to promote the color pink, encouraging businesses and groups to display pink flags and wear pink clothing, and raise support for breast cancer treatment... It's election time: Register, learn, vote (10/06/14) We're less than a month away from another national election. On Nov. 4, voters will be faced with several decisions, including the 8th Congressional District representative and a handful of other initiatives, including the hot-button Amendment 3 -- which addresses teacher performance and standardized testing -- and a local fire tax... Amendment 3 is short-sighted way to evaluate teachers (10/05/14) Most would agree that any profession should have a level of accountability. The method to evaluate accountability can be challenging in some fields more than others. Public education is one where there's no quick way. Amendment 3 on the Missouri November ballot seeks to connect teacher evaluations to student performance... KC vs. Stl? A Fall Classic that might happen again (10/03/14) Since 1985 the St. Louis Cardinals have won four National League pennants and two World Series championships. The Redbirds have advanced to the postseason many other times. Cardinals fans expect their team to make the playoffs year after year. It's a culture of winning baseball, playing the game the right way, and providing the best fans in baseball with the best baseball contests... Welcome back to Southeast alumni for Homecoming (10/02/14) Find your red and black Southeast Missouri State apparel. It's Homecoming weekend. There will be several special events at Southeast on Friday and Saturday. Here are a few: There are several other activities on the schedule. To learn more, visit semo.edu/homecoming and to see community activities visit our community calendar semoevents.com... Southeast salutes alumni, faculty (10/01/14) We're days away from Southeast Missouri State University Homecoming weekend. The annual celebration is the university's big opportunity to welcome graduates back to Cape Girardeau for a weekend of fun activities and good fellowship. It's also about recognizing some of those who have found success beyond their years on campus. This year's alumni merit award recipients include:... Thank you to schools that teach current events (09/30/14) You may have watched a cable news or late-night show where a reporter talks to men and women on the street to ask basic questions -- questions such as "Who is the vice president of the United States?" and other bits of information that should be easy questions. Our numbers show more people continue to engage with the Southeast Missourian. Sadly, there are those who don't follow the news... Southeast hits milestone in fall enrollment (09/29/14) Enrollment at Southeast Missouri State University has hit the 12,000 mark for the first time in school history, yet another sign of the good health of our local institution. It marks the 20th year of consecutive enrollment growth for Southeast, and the 14th year of record-breaking enrollment... Warning sirens welcome in Cape Girardeau County (09/28/14) An additional 18 warning sirens will go live in Cape Girardeau County in October, bringing the total number to 40. The additional sirens were made possible through a Federal Emergency Management Agency grant. The county provided a 25 percent match, which came from local public and private funds... Former Cardinals pitcher to share testimony on Sunday (09/26/14) Many people have a hurt, habit or hang-up. Whether drug dependency, relationship challenges, alcoholism or another category, these are problems that can destroy lives of individuals and families. There are programs, however, that can help people move forward and live a better life. Celebrate Recovery is one of those programs... Get ready for golf in downtown Cape Girardeau (09/26/14) Golfers and fun-seekers, get ready. Tee time is 1:30 p.m. Sunday. The location: Downtown Cape Girardeau. The First-Ever Ninth Annual Louis J. Lorimier Memorial World-Famous Downtown Golf Tournament will be held this weekend in Cape Girardeau's downtown to raise money for the Red House Interpretive Center... Jackson students learn team-building skills (09/25/14) Pick the cliche of your choice: There's no "I" in team; it's a team sport; be a team player. We hear these things regularly, and they can be overused or misused. However, there is something to team building. Successful organizations have to work together to provide quality customer service. Sports teams work together to win a competition. The list goes on... Faith summit a good opportunity for parents (09/24/14) There's no higher calling than shepherding your children in their faith. Yes, there are many things to parenting. But faith is of seminal importance to many families, and becoming better equipped to train your child in the way he or she should go, as the Scripture points out in Proverbs 22:6, is of utmost importance... Dinner experience at the River Campus begins Oct. 10 (09/23/14) There's something new coming to the River Campus this fall. For a select number of performances, those interested in dinner plus entertainment may purchase a meal provided by Chartwells and then see a performance. It's called a pre-performance dining experience and is held two hours before the show... 2 of top Catholic schools in nation are local (09/22/14) Some congratulations are in order for two local Catholic high schools that have been recognized for their excellence. Last week it was announced that Notre Dame and St. Vincent were recognized as "schools of excellence" by the Cardinal Newman Society... Solid process, effort in CID voting (09/21/14) It was an interesting outcome from an unusual vote for a unique place. Last week we learned the results of two separate-but-connected votes concerning a special taxing district for downtown Cape Girardeau. Registered voters in the Community Improvement District approved a sales tax of a half cent, but rejected the creation of a property tax of $0.6709 per $100 assessed valuation within the district... Opportunities to enjoy music this weekend (09/19/14) The last performance of the fall season for Tunes at Twilight will be held tonight. Allie Farris will provide the music entertainment starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Common Please Courthouse Gazebo. Tunes at Twighlight, a popular event in Cape Girardeau's downtown, is hosted by Old Town Cape and sponsored by SoutheastHEALTH, Fox 23 KBSI and Cape Air... Day on the River could bring big crowd Saturday (09/19/14) Living next to the Mississippi River has its advantages. Among them are opportunities like the Missouri Department of Conservation Day on the River event to be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. This is the fifth event the department has held, and there will be many activities for those of all ages to enjoy. ... Plenty of activities for SEMO Family Weekend (09/18/14) Students have been in class for a few weeks, and this weekend the university and community welcome parents back to town to celebrate Family Weekend. There are several events on the schedule, and you can find a full list on the university's website, semo.edu, and more area events on semoevents.com. But here are a few to highlight:... Special thanks to all involved in producing fair (09/17/14) There was plenty of food, rides, music, vendors and more. And the weather, minus a little rain and cool temperatures, was nice for the recent SEMO District Fair. The annual event that traditionally draws tens of thousands capped off eight days of fun on Saturday at Arena Park. Official attendance numbers were not available on Tuesday, but Pete Poe, a longtime SEMO District Fair organizer, said the numbers were down slightly from last year due to the rain and cooler temperatures... VintageNOW combines fun fashion with a good cause (09/16/14) There are several events in the area each year that match good fun with a worthy cause. Count the VintageNOW fashion show as one of the best. The fifth annual fashion show will be held Oct. 17 at the Osage Centre in Cape Girardeau. It's a 1950s theme this year. The doors will open at 6 p.m... A new way to test student performance (09/15/14) We understand the need for standardized testing. It's necessary as a matter of accountability to be able to somehow measure the successes or failures of any school. Over the last several weeks, the Southeast Missourian, via reporter Ruth Campbell, has brought you several stories regarding the results of the Missouri Assessment Program, aka MAP... The search begins for next SEMO president (09/14/14) As Dr. Kenneth Dobbins said recently, there will be plenty of time to say goodbye. For now, though, there is still much work to be done. Dobbins announced last week that this would be his final academic year at the head post of Southeast Missouri State University. The school president since 1999, Dobbins leaves behind a strong legacy... Raising funds, awareness to defeat childhood cancer (09/12/14) Cancer is horrible any way you slice it. To see friends and family battle the disease is heart-wrenching. But it's especially tough when you see a child with the affliction. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and recently a story by reporter Samantha Rinehart, the first in a series, explored the challenges of child-focused cancer treatments and how families battle to provide the necessary medical treatment for their child... 9/11: 13 years later (09/11/14) It's been 13 years since Sept. 11, 2001. We remember where we were, what we were doing and how we felt when we saw two planes fly into the World Trade Center. We remember the cloud of smoke that billowed from the Pentagon after another airliner crashed. And we remember the crater left in a Pennsylvania field that was a result of brave passengers who prevented countless other lives lost... FDNY fire chief to share his story (09/10/14) On Thursday the United States will remember the events of Sept. 11, 2001. It's been 13 years since that tragic day that left thousands dead and a nation in mourning. We will reflect more on 9/11 in this space on Thursday. Today we welcome New York Fire Department chief Richard Picciotto to Cape Girardeau to kick off the Southeast Missouri State University Speaker Series. Picciotto will deliver his address at 11:30 a.m. in Academic Hall. The event is free and open to the public... Cannonball Run makes stop in Cape Girardeau (09/09/14) Today will be a busy day for many in the area. It's fair week, and Christian singer Jeremy Camp will perform at the Arena Park grandstand. The Crader Lecture also is on for this evening, and Baylor faculty member Dr. Thomas Kidd will deliver a speech on Patrick Henry at 7:30 p.m. in Rose Theatre... History of church, state at Crader lecture (09/08/14) Patrick Henry, a Founding Father, is most famously known in school history books for his quote, "Give me liberty or give me death." But there is much more to the man than the seven-word line etched in our collective memory. Dr. Thomas Kidd, a professor of history and senior fellow in the Institute for Studies at Baylor University, will share his expertise of Henry in the annual Crader Lecture at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday... Regrettable politics behind Nixon's ax (09/07/14) On June 24, state representative Kathy Swan received an email from a legislative liason regarding the fate of the Cottonwood Residential Treatment Center. The director of behavioral health was meeting with the Cottonwood Residential Treatment Center staff regarding the closure of that facility by the end of the year... Hutson auction for Old Town Cape a good cause (09/05/14) Old Town's Cape's annual fundraising auction will be held at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the Isle Casino Event Center. The event is named after the late Charles L. Hutson, a Cape Girardeau visionary who played a significant role in supporting the city's downtown area... Let the fair fun begin (09/04/14) The 159th annual SEMO District Fair is just days away. The annual eight-day event kicks off Saturday, and the lineup of entertainment and activities promises to provide many opportunities for family fun. This year the parade will be held on Saturday. ... High school, college bands strike up a song (09/03/14) We often write about local sports, particularly high school sports and the importance athletics plays with students. It's true sports teach important lessons and can serve as a common bond between fellow students, students and parents, and high schools with alumni -- but so can other activities, including high school bands... Another exciting speaker lineup (09/02/14) It's always a thrill when Southeast Missouri State University releases the lineup for its speaker series. Every year, the university comes out with an impressive list of people to come and speak here in Cape Girardeau. This year is no exception. On the list this year are:... Addressing neighborhoods, untangling poverty (08/31/14) Even before Michael Brown was shot by a police officer in Ferguson, Mo., cries for peace and pleas for ending violence were being voiced in a troubled Cape Girardeau neighborhood. Before Brown, there was Anthony Hempstead, a young black man shot in our town. His killer has not yet been identified. Hempstead, who had a troubled past but according to family was trying to lead a new, clean life, left a loving family in pieces. He also left behind a neighborhood searching for answers. For justice... Happy Labor Day (08/31/14) When it comes to the reasons for Monday's Labor Day holiday, the U.S. Department of Labor offers a good historical review. The first Labor Day celebration was in New York City in 1882 and was organized by the Central Labor Union. Right off the bat, the holiday was associated with the first Monday in September. ... Corvettes made for fun attraction in Cape's downtown (08/29/14) It was an impressive sight on Tuesday as a large group of Corvettes made its way to downtown Cape Girardeau. Hundreds of the popular sports cars joined the Corvette Caravan, and local enthusiasts filled the downtown area to get a look. The group was traveling to the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky... Southeast football begins a new era (08/28/14) There's a new excitement about the Southeast Missouri State University football program. The Redhawks have a new head coach, Tom Matukewicz, whose leadership to this point has brought energy and a new team culture. Last week Southeast Missourian and semoball.com sports editor Rachel Crader highlighted how success should, or should not, be measured in coach Tuke's first season. ... Boat race brings practical experience to classroom education (08/27/14) Take key concepts and put together a friendly competition and you have a good start in helping young people learn. A competition promoting Project Lead the Way, an organization that promotes education and preparation for college engineering programs, recently was held at the Student Aquatic Center at Southeast Missouri State University. ... Many education options in Cape Girardeau (08/26/14) Today's workforce requires people with different skills. A college education is a great choice, and many students are now back to their campus for the start of a new academic year. But there are many educational options, including trade schools. Careers in the medical field, business, massage therapy and cosmetology all need people with specific skills. The educational programs, in many cases, can be finished in a relatively short period of time... Being safe with alcohol is a serious matter (08/25/14) According to a Missouri Department of Transportation official, there were 757 fatal crashes on Missouri roads in 2013. About a third of those involved an impaired driver. As we warmly welcome college students back to the campus of Southeast Missouri State University, we're reminded of the seriousness of driving while impaired... Athletics about more than who wins and loses (08/24/14) Friday night marked the beginning of high school football season. At stadiums all across the state and country, fans in local communities gathered to support their athletes on the gridiron. But it's not just football. There are many other sports, for boys and girls, that help draw communities closer... Cancer gala adds style with cause (08/22/14) The American Cancer Society's Crystal Ball, also referred to as A Cure For Cape Gala, will be held at Isle Capri Cape Girardeau on Saturday. The gala is a fun experience where supporters dress to the nines and raise money to help those who battle cancer... Welcome back to Southeast students (08/21/14) This weekend Cape Girardeau will welcome Southeast Missouri State University students to campus. The next few days are busy for the university, students and their parents. There's move-in day, shopping and other events that mark the beginning of a new academic year... Former SEMO coach recognized for success (08/20/14) A former Southeast Missouri State track and field coach will add another honor to the list in December. Joey Haines, who coached men's and women's squads at Southeast for 26 years, was announced as an honoree for the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association Hall of Fame. The recognition will be bestowed at a ceremony in December... GLS helps many become better leaders (08/19/14) Leadership makes a difference. That might sound basic and somewhat trite, but it's the truth. Businesses, not-for-profits, churches and other organizations need men and women devoted not simply to managing people but leading teams and organizations. Good leaders learn, they cast vision, they take a proactive approach to developing strategies that enhance the workplace and move things forward for those they serve... Read to Succeed program works, now and for the future (08/18/14) As we embark on another school year, literacy again is top of mind. The United Way Read to Succeed program has been an overwhelming success. Last year, for example, 191 of 192 children who participated in the program improved their reading proficiency by one complete grade level... An escalating story: Christian persecution (08/17/14) It's been a downer week in terms of news stories. The situation in Ferguson, Missouri, has captured international media attention. The suicide of Robin Williams pulled the heart strings of America. The comedian and actor's loss resonated with millions... Lessons from Ferguson (08/15/14) The news from Ferguson, Missouri, this week was tragic. An 18-year-old black man named Michael Brown was shot and killed by a police officer. Brown was unarmed. The justice system will sort through this event. Understandably, there's been much anxiety over this incident, one that has stoked racial tension. ... Jackson, Charleston baseball teams have impressive seasons (08/14/14) Two Southeast Missouri baseball teams finished their seasons in fine fashion. The Jackson Post 158 Junior Legion baseball team won the regional title this month in Kansas in a double-elimination tournament. The team, having previously not lost a game, fell to South Dakota in Game 1 of the championship round but came back to win the second contest to claim the title... Get those pencils. It's back-to-school time (08/13/14) Many area students will return to class this week. While students may not be fully ready to leave summer behind, there's still an exciting feeling about a new school year. Education plays a vital role in society. It's a building block for success. As the 2014-15 school year begins, here are a few thoughts as you pack lunches and prepare for the bake sales ahead... Cape Splash, Central Pool still popular summer attractions (08/12/14) This was a different summer. July and August are typically months of warm temperatures and humidity. We caught a break from the heat for a good part of the summer, which was nice for many who enjoyed time at the ballpark, on vacation or engaging in other summertime festivities. However, it also meant that you might not have been as inclined to hit the pool as much... Playing it safe in high school sports (08/11/14) Last week, a football player from Poplar Bluff collapsed, and was revived by sports staffers who performed CPR. The illness wasn't caused by heat or overexertion, but a heart ailment. The young man was fortunate that responders on hand knew CPR and were quick to act. He will need heart surgery to correct the condition, and may return to sports activities at some point in the future... Celebrating a church's milestone of 90 years (08/10/14) The Cape Girardeau region has a strong and deep religious heritage. Our part of the state is known for having some of the oldest churches on this side of the Mississippi. Churches were, and are, central to many of our communities. The First Church of God at 500 Emerald St. recently celebrated its 90th anniversary as a church... Theater group to perform 'Little Women' musical (08/08/14) The Jackson-based theater group Acting Out! is set to present its latest musical this weekend, "Little Women." The Broadway musical was first performed in 2005, more than a century after the book by Louisa May Alcott was published. "Little Women" tells a story of four sisters and their mother from Massachusetts as their father served in the Civil War... Trail of Tears State Park a local gem worth visiting (08/07/14) Trail of Tears is one of Southeast Missouri's special gems. Visiting Lake Boutin can be a nice way to spend a summer day, and in the fall the colorful leaves are fantastic. The state park recently held its annual information meeting. Projects for the park were discussed, including a new restroom, electrical and sewer lines, parking lot and maintenance items such as fixing campfire grills and lantern posts... Revving up for the Corvette Caravan (08/06/14) In a couple of weeks we'll be able to see hundreds of Corvettes and hear that special purr of the engine. The Corvette Caravan will make its first visit to Cape Girardeau as the group travels to the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky... Vote in today's primary election (08/05/14) Voting should not be taken for granted. This country has its share of problems. But unlike some countries, we have the right to vote. It's an opportunity to make our voice heard, to cast our ballots for the candidates we believe best represent our values... Mental health group extends support (08/04/14) It's becoming increasingly apparent that mental health services are badly needed in today's society. A new group in Cape Girardeau has been established to help families deal with mental health issues of a loved one. The National Alliance on Mental Illness in Jefferson City, Missouri, is spinning off a new group in Cape Girardeau. Called NAMI for short, the group offers support to the families of people dealing with depression and bi-polar disorder... Every dog has its day with EPIC program (08/03/14) It's amazing to see what goodness animals can impart on humans. And it goes well beyond viral videos of cute cats and dogs that can be found in your Facebook feeds. The latest example is demonstrated by the EPIC Pals program, which pairs troubled youths and shelter dogs... Sikeston Jaycees ready to host annual rodeo (08/01/14) If you like rodeo action plus country and rock music, you may want to consider heading to Sikeston next week for the Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo. The annual festivities bring out many locals and folks from around Southeast Missouri. The action begins Wednesday with Day 1 of the rodeo and musical performance by Josh Thompson. Thursday night's music entertainment is Thompson Square. Dustin Lynch will hit the stage on Friday. And Bret Michaels rounds out the week on Saturday night... Donations to animal shelters are appreciated (07/31/14) Animals in local shelters need your support, and on Saturday there is an opportunity to help. Safe Harbor Animal Sanctuary will hold three stuff-a-truck events sponsored by Engelmann Farms from 9 a.m. to noon. The trucks will be located at Petco Pet Supplies, 266 Siemers Drive, and Kmart, 11 S. Kingshighway, in Cape Girardeau and the Safe Harbor Thrift Store in Jackson, located at 3862 E. Jackson Blvd... State, counties wise to offer sales tax holiday (07/30/14) The back-to-school signs are coming out, a sure sign that local schools soon will be back in session soon. A popular weekend in Missouri for several years is the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday. Held on the first weekend in August, the holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday and continues through Sunday... Meeting the need for more health-care workers (07/29/14) Health care goes beyond direct patient care. It's a huge industry that consists of trained individuals who see patients, market facilities, maintain financial records and more. In our community, it's a major component of the local economy. We have two large health systems that have experienced much growth. ... 'Roll' models have fun, raise funds (07/28/14) Cape Girardeau is teeming with interesting subcultures of enthusiasts. Add the Roller Girls to the mix. The Cape Girardeau Roller Girls have been competing for several years, not only providing an entertainment option for Cape Girardeau, and raising money for charities, but having fun and building relationships while they're doing it... Our take on August ballot issues (07/27/14) Several amendments appear on the August primary ballot. Here's our take on the issues. Amendment 1: "Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to ensure that the right of Missouri citizens to engage in agricultural production and ranching practices shall not be infringed? The potential costs or savings to governmental entities are unknown, but likely limited unless the resolution leads to increased litigation costs and/or the loss of federal funding. ... Hoops for Life has special meaning for local couple, runners (07/25/14) Shannon and Amy Aldridge are an inspiration. The couple lost their daughter Sahara in 2007 to brain cancer. But the Aldridges have been dedicated to helping others and, in effect, honoring their daughter. The annual Hoops for Life charity 5k set for Saturday is named after Sahara, whose nickname was "Hoops."... A lesson in perseverance (07/24/14) Everyone could use a dose of inspiration, and the recent story in the Southeast Missourian of Chris Hrabik fits the bill. Hrabik, who lives in Sedgewickville, Missouri, was in a car accident 10 years ago. Only 18 years old and not wearing a seat belt, the crash left him a quadrapelegic -- although he has some use of his arms... Discovery Playhouse opens new exhibits (07/23/14) Children can activate their imaginations with the new house, dental office and farm mural exhibits at the Discovery Playhouse. These are the latest additions to the growing children's museum on Broadway in Cape Girardeau. Pretending the house is up for sale by Realty Executives, the exhibit allows youngsters to walk through and see mini appliances. ... Jackson Homecomers opens tonight (07/22/14) Jackson's annual Homecomers festival kicks off tonight in the city's downtown. This Southeast Missouri summertime event brings thousands to the streets for music, rides and good family fun. A past event that will not take place this week is the talent show. Organizers replaced the show due to a lack of interest. However, an expanded gospel performance and Senior Idol contest will be held... Collecting photos for Vietnam project (07/21/14) The Missouri Press Association, in cooperation with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation, is embarking on a noble project aimed at recognizing Vietnam Veterans in conjunction with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. The groups are looking for photographs of Vietnam soldiers who died in combat... A story of bravery, love and America (07/20/14) It was a down-home combination of "Extreme Home Makeover" and "The Bucket List." Add the introduction of a little red-haired granddaughter, a U.S. veteran and a generous, small-town community, and you have one dandy of an American-made story. Matt Johnston, a Purple Heart Marine, is facing his mortality. He's battling stage-4 lung cancer... Tomlin concert and Capahas auction to be held tonight (07/18/14) Summertime entertainment continues this weekend with a Christian concert and Capahas auction both scheduled for tonight. Popular contemporary Christian music writer and singer Chris Tomlin will perform at the Show Me Center tonight. The concert includes fellow contemporary Christian artist Brandon Heath... Church helps community through free-of-charge weekend (07/17/14) The things we say and do matter. It sounds trite, but the reality is others watch how we respond to situations. Scripture says it clearly that others will know we are followers of Christ if we love one another. Recently, one local church took this command to the streets. Mount Auburn Christian Church hosted a three-day, free-of-charge event... Mission trips are a blessing to volunteers, beneficiaries (07/16/14) During the summer months many churches sponsor mission trips around the country and abroad. The timing is good for students, who are out of school for the summer, and others who take vacation time to minister to those in need. In June, seven students and eight adults from Notre Dame Regional High School went to Montgomery, Alabama, to provide assistance. ... August primary includes several contests, amendments (07/15/14) Three weeks from today Missouri voters will head to the polls for the August primary election. On the ballot will be local and state races and several amendments. Here is a look at the contested races and issues to be decided: On the Democratic ticket, two candidates will seek the vote to run in the Missouri House District 147 race. They include Gary L. Gaines and Blake Hopper... Students will learn about entrepreneurship (07/14/14) A new enterprise being developed by Southeast Missouri State University will help students learn some fundamentals of entrepreneurship. Called a Creative Labs and Industries Incubator, the facility will allow students to participate in class activities and projects involving startup ventures, an art gallery, a retail boutique, a letter press print shop, a 3-D studio, a gourmet coffee and juice bar, commercial photography, graphic design and interior design; and marketing, human resources and accounting services.. ... Church community meals are blessings to many people (07/13/14) There's something about getting together with friends and others in the community over food. This fellowship extends to the church community, and there are congregations locally who make a regular habit of serving meals. A Southeast Missourian story in June included information about The Church at Morley, a non-denomination congregation in the small Southeast Missouri town. ... Charleston baseball program and a decade of summer fun (07/11/14) There's a distinct difference between high school and summer baseball. The high school teams rally around a school. Teammates also are classmates. The focus is on learning, school spirit, carrying on a legacy and competing in post-season play. Summer teams also have a drive to win and advance in tournaments, however, there's a different culture. ... It's time to see the doctor (07/10/14) A few weeks ago a Southeast Missourian story on the Tuesday health page caught our eye. More specifically, it was a comment from a local physican who said for every 70 women who receive a physical, only 30 men receive similar medical care. The story looked at the importance of having an annual physical and having appropriate tests for age and gender... Fun awaits at annual Southeast Missourian Jr. Park & Rec day (07/09/14) The weather this summer has been spectacular. The heat and humidity that typically greets us this time of year have been mild. This reprieve from heat has been perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. On Friday there will be plenty of activities taking place at the Osage Community Centre for the Southeast Missourian Jr. Park & Rec Day... Kidney donation an inspiring act of kindness (07/08/14) Would you donate your organs? It's a question often posed when considering organ donation upon death. Because we have two kidneys, some may donate one while still living to a loved one. Both options are selfless acts. But would you donate your kidney to a co-worker, choosing to live with one of two important organs for a person who is of no blood relation?... Whiffle ball tourney supports good causes (07/07/14) Professional baseball's All-Star game in scheduled for next week in Minnesota. The Midsummer Classic will feature many of the game's best, and the Home Run Derby is always fun. But there's another "classic" game coming up this week locally. The Summer Classic will be held Friday through Sunday at Arena Park. The Whiffle ball tournament will include good-natured fun, and on Saturday there will be a home run derby... SCOTUS decision a victory for religious liberty (07/06/14) It's fitting the Supreme Court decision in Hobby Lobby v. Sebelius came the week of July 4. The issue at hand, religious liberty, is one this country was founded on. Hobby Lobby is a family-owned crafts company that operates more than 600 stores in 41 states. ... Mary Kasten: The 2014 Spirit of America award winner (07/03/14) Mary Kasten is a former Missouri legislator, education advocate and active member of this community. Her passion for the community and nation is well chronicled. On Friday night, at the Cape Girardeau Fourth of July program held at the foot of the Common Please Courthouse, Kasten will be recognized as the 12th recipient of the Southeast Missourian's Spirit of America Award... Alma Schrader recognized for character-building (07/02/14) The importance of good character cannot be overstated. It's critical to doing anything well. Alma Schrader Elementary School has taken this idea and put it into action with Tigers Across the Ages and Courtyard Crashers. The programs recently were recognized nationally by Character Education Partnership as Promising Practices... Events to help celebrate Independence Day (07/01/14) On Friday this nation will celebrate its Independence Day. It's a day to remember our country's founding and the men and women who have fought to preserve freedom. There is no more patriotic day than July 4. To help celebrate the holiday, there are several local events lined up... Spirit of America Award nominees (06/30/14) In Thursday's newspaper, we will announce this year's Southeast Missourian Spirit of America award winner. We've been giving the award for more than a decade now, recognizing a person in the community who has exemplified the "spirit" of America, whether it be through community or military service. The newspaper donates $1,000 to a charity of the winner's choice... Nixon using school cuts for political purposes (06/29/14) When Gov. Nixon wielded his executive power last week to veto or freeze more than $1.1 billion in state funding for Missouri's 2015 fiscal year budget, it sent ripples of anxiety throughout the state. Which is exactly what the governor wanted. School districts and higher education institutions across the state are adjusting to the announcement that more than $200 million will be frozen from education spending, including preschool programs, elementary, high schools and higher education. ... Model planes to provide fun show locally (06/27/14) Operating remote-controlled toys isn't just for kids. Around 100 model airplanes are expected to be in the Cape Girardeau sky this weekend for the 3D Fly-Low-In. The models are impressive, with wing spans between 6 and 8 feet. The show was scheduled to start Thursday and continues through noon Sunday at Galaxy Air Field, located off State Highway 177 north of Cape Girardeau... The inspiring story of Scott Rigsby (06/26/14) Everyone could use some inspiration. On Friday there will be an opportunity to hear from a man who has faced tremendous challenges and succeeded. Scott Rigsby is a double amputee. At the age of 18, he was riding in a pickup truck that was struck by a semi truck. He received third degree burns on his back, his right leg was detached with the left leg barely hanging on. He underwent 26 surgeries, and the left leg also was amputated... Voting begins for People's Choice Awards (06/25/14) If you are in business you know the importance of being the best. Selling the best product. Delivering the best service. It's quality that helps drive the economic engine, and the area has many companies and individuals who daily strive for excellence... An inspiring night at the Semoball Awards (06/24/14) If you attended the Semoball Awards on Saturday night, you likely left the Show Me Center inspired. The show recognized the best of the best in high school sports, made each person feel like a star, and the keynote speaker, Kyle Maynard, gave a riveting talk. His message: No excuses... 12 tips to stay safe, conserve in summer heat (06/23/14) We've had a small taste of the summer season in the past week or so, as the heat index has climbed into the high 90s. Those of us who have lived in the area for any length of time, know what to expect in terms of stifling days ahead. But it's always a good idea to freshen up on ways to stay healthy when the mercury rises. Here are some tips, according to local and national health experts:... How a young girl reminds us of soldiers' sacrifices (06/22/14) You've seen them now for years, but they never do grow old, do they? Those videos or photos of surprised young children embracing their fathers, who have returned from military duty. We had such a moment last week, thanks in part to the St. Louis Cardinals, when Kylie Peters, 8, was reunited with her father, Staff Sgt Matthew Peters, at Busch Stadium... Church, farm tours offer chance to know Jackson (06/20/14) The city of Jackson is in the midst of a yearlong celebration of its bicentennial. On Sunday, June 29, the city will celebrate its religious heritage with a walking tour of six uptown churches. The event, hosted by the Jackson Ministerial Alliance, will take participants to the First Baptist Church, New McKendree United Methodist Church, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, the First Presbyterian Church, Emanuel United Church of Christ and St. Paul Lutheran Church... Traveling memorial honors our Vietnam veterans (06/19/14) Earlier this month the nation celebrated the heroics of the World War II generation on the 70th anniversary of D-Day, the rugged European battle that changed the course of the war and the world. The stories of bravery are epic, and the stakes could not have been higher... Valedictorians show value of education (06/18/14) For the last few weeks, we've had the pleasure of introducing our readers to our valedictorians. These are the best students our local high schools have produced, and we're thrilled to get to know them. Their profiles will run throughout the summer on our Thursday "Next" pages... Debating the levee three years later (06/17/14) Three years ago, Southeast Missouri, specifically those living in Mississippi and New Madrid counties, experienced the biggest local natural disaster of a generation. The great flood of 2011 was an epic that played out in real time, as the region followed by the minute the decision to blow a levee and intentionally flood 130,000 acres of farmland, including several homes. Finally, the decision was made that May to detonate Birds Point levee. It was the first time that had happened since 1937... Huge arts festival Saturday at River Campus (06/16/14) After hearing demands of wanting to have more summer activities at the River Campus, leaders at the facility have a big day in store. The River Campus is launching its inaugural Community Summer Arts Festival Saturday. It will begin at 10 a.m. and run through 5 p.m., featuring live music, dance, theatrical performances, magic, visual arts displays, hands-on family friendly art activities and more, according to marketing materials prepared by Southeast Missouri State University... Here's to you, Dad (06/15/14) The following is our annual tribute to fathers. If you are a father and holding this newspaper in your hand, you're probably one of the good guys. Well-informed, educated and responsible. You probably have changed diapers. Coached ballgames. Taken your child or children to church. ... Flag Day a reminder of freedom, the men and women who serve (06/13/14) Saturday is nationally recognized as Flag Day, an occasion set aside to recognize the stars and stripes that make America's flag. According to usflag.org, the first idea for this day began in 1885. A schoolteacher invited his students to recognize June 14 as Flag Day. The timing coincided with the anniversary of the flag's adoption... Pursley family is an inspiration (06/12/14) We hope you read the story in Sunday's Southeast Missourian about the Pursley family. The story, written by reporter Tyler Graef, is an inspiring look at a family who has faced challenges but persevered and shared lessons learned. Sheree and Dr. Greg Pursley of Jackson are parents to two children, Evee-Kay and Izaac... Hobby Lobby and the Supreme Court decision to come (06/11/14) Earlier this year the Supreme court heard oral arguments in the Hobby Lobby v. Sebelius case. The suit brought forth by the arts and crafts store, owned by the Green family, has taken center stage. The family is firm in its faith and believes that being required to cover the full list of contraceptives, some considered abortifacient, mandated by the Affordable Care Act breeches its religious liberty... Stay alert, watch for bikers (06/10/14) Warmer days and sunshine mean more people will be using their motorcycles. For some, it's about weekend trips. Others may be on the road more than 10,000 miles a year. While it can be a fun hobby, riding motorcycles can be dangerous. A recent Southeast Missourian story cited 104 fatalities in Missouri during 2012 from motorcycle crashes. The first five months of 2013, according to Cpl. Clark Parrott of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, saw motorcycle-related deaths up 40 percent... Finalists set. Now it's time for the Semoball Awards (06/09/14) You've read about it. Heard about it on the radio. Maybe you or your son or daughter was named a finalist for an award. Now we are less than two weeks from the Semoball Awards. This inaugural event at the Show Me Center will be first-class and fun. On June 21, Semoball.com, its sponsors and promotional partner SEMO ESPN Radio will recognize more than 160 athletes and coaches for excellence on the field and court and their work in the classroom... Riverfront fireworks should be fun (06/08/14) The City of Cape Girardeau announced plans last week to return the Fourth of July fireworks display to the downtown riverfront. In 2009, the city decided a fireworks display was too costly, so it discontinued the event. The fireworks displays were then picked up and organized by a local veterans group, which for several years also organized other Independence Day events. Those events were held at Arena Park... Remember D-Day (06/06/14) Today is the 70th anniversary of D-Day in World War II. It was this day in 1944 when Allied forces invaded northern France, and was a turning point toward an Allied victory. D-day is the event that sent 160,000 Allied troops to a French coastline to fight Nazi Germany on the beaches of Normandy. It remains one of the deadliest war conflicts in our nation's history... City of Cape taking strategic look at park renovations (06/05/14) This area is blessed with many top-notch outdoor facilities. There are opportunities for bike rides, running and walking, fishing, Frisbee golf, baseball and many other attractions. During the warm weather months these are the places many enjoy. A story in the May 23 edition of the Southeast Missourian highlighted several ongoing efforts to help renovate parks and outdoor facilities... Nominations continue for Spirit of America (06/04/14) Time remains to send in your nominations for the Southeast Missourian Spirit of America Award. Each year this newspaper recognizes one individual at a local Fourth of July celebration. Previous recipients include: John "Doc" Yallaly, Dr. Dan Cotner, Melvin Gateley, Neal Edwards, James Harnes Sr., Jane Randol Jackson, Harry Rediger, Rob Callahan, David Hitt, Kent Zickfield and Ken Bender... Scott City prepares to break ground on safe room (06/03/14) It has been a few years in the making, but plans are underway to break ground for Scott City School District's new performing arts theater/Federal Emergency Management Agency safe room. The groundbreaking will be at 10:30 a.m. June 16, with the time set for students in summer school to have a firsthand look... Special thanks for those involved in funeral honors (06/02/14) Last Sunday's feature story on trumpeter Larry Herron was an enlightening example of how someone can use musical ability as a gift to others. Herron, 66, has played taps at more than 2,300 military funerals. Herron is one of a handful of musicians who play taps in the area, and one of many who take the time out of their days to pay respects to veterans when they are laid to rest... Death penalty deserves judges' scrutiny (06/01/14) The death penalty issue is a divisive one, obviously. The ultimate punishment has been in the local news a lot recently, as killer and rapist Russell Bucklew faced being executed via injection. As with many death-penalty cases, Bucklew's has gone through several rounds of legal appeals. On the very date he was to be executed, the courts went back and forth several times. On, then off, then on, then off again, the last decision coming two hours before he was to be put to death... Mentorship can be ‘Big' help for kids (05/30/14) Do you have four to six hours a month to give to a child? The Big Brothers Big Sisters organization says that's what is needed to make a huge, positive affect in the role of a mentor. In a story by Ruth Campbell that was published last week in the Southeast Missourian, a study showed that children in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program were:... Tunes, muny bands provide a great summer atmosphere (05/29/14) In terms of regular events, several live concerts help flavor the summer in Cape Girardeau and Jackson. Cape Girardeau's Tunes at Twilight series is one of the city's jewels. Every Friday night throughout the summer, music lovers will gather on lawn chairs and blankets around the Common Pleas Courthouse Park gazebo, and listen to live music brought in from outside the area. ... Kenny Rogers to perform for disabled children (05/28/14) Kenny Rogers will be playing a concert Sunday to benefit the center in Sikeston that bears his name and helps children with disabilities. The Kenny Rogers Center is a blessing for many families throughout Southeast Missouri. In a recent interview with the Southeast Missourian, Rogers said he has "developed kind of a kinship with Sikeston over the years, and I think that what they're doing there is so wonderful. I'm proud and excited to be a part of it."... Several officers recognized for work, dedication (05/27/14) Several Cape Girardeau County police officers were recognized recently for their excellence. The county has been awarding the Timothy J. Ruopp Award since 1984. Named after a former officer of the sheriff's department who was killed in the line of duty while working in San Diego, the Ruopp Award was given to Cpl. James Malugen of the investigations division... Memorial Day: A salute to fallen heroes (05/25/14) Editor's note: The following is our annual Memorial Day editorial. When the first ceremonies were held following the Civil War to honor those soldiers who had lost their lives in battle, communities sought to pay proper respect to fallen heroes. Over the years, those observances have been adopted nationwide as Memorial Day. Several special events are planned throughout this holiday weekend, which also traditionally marks the start of summertime activities... Plenty of events on deck this summer (05/23/14) Memorial Day weekend is an unofficial kickoff for summer. It's a time to get with family and friends, spend time in the pool, barbecue and enjoy other summer fun. One activity that has drawn interest for the last decade-plus is the 100-Mile Yard Sale. The sale goes through Sunday. Vendors line up along Highway 25 from Jackson to Kennett, Missouri. If you plan to travel this way, please be safe and watch for people... Thanks to EMS professionals (05/22/14) We all pray we will never need their services, but this week is recognized as National EMS Week. The honor began in 1974 under the Ford administration. It is an opportunity to thank the individuals and entities who work in challenging fields where decisions and response time can mean the difference between life and death... SEMO baseball takes top seed into OVC Tournament (05/21/14) It's been a memorable year for the Southeast Missouri State University baseball team. Southeast (38-18) closed the regular season with a series sweep of IPFW. While the team accumulated a strong overall record, it was its performance within the conference (23-7) that propelled the Redhawks to the top seed and first-round bye in the Ohio Valley Conference Tournament... Air show has strong turnout on busy weekend (05/20/14) Perfect weather, fantastic attendance and wonderful shows made for a strong Cape Girardeau Regional Air Festival over the weekend. The two-day air show featured amazing performances in the air and ground. Headlining the show was the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. Other performers such as the U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team and Paul Stender and the jet-powered school bus, among others, had fans excited and on their feet... Parents: Many events will keep children active (05/19/14) As the weather warms, and the end of another school year approaches, our attention and thoughts turn to summer activities. And for parents, the summer months can be challenging to find ways to keep children active and healthy. Cape Girardeau and surrounding communities have many events and camps scheduled throughout the summer... Nominate now for Spirit of America (05/18/14) The Southeast Missourian is again accepting nominations for our annual Spirit of America Award. The award was established in 2003. It recognizes people who have demonstrated a patriotic commitment to service, whether through community involvement or military service... Armed Forces Day: A salute to our heroes (05/16/14) Saturday is Armed Forces Day. As the Department of Defense notes on its website, the effort to start a holiday to recognize members of the military was started by President Harry S. Truman. The day was officially named armed Forces Day in 1949 when Defense Secretary Louis Johnson noted the holiday would replace the different Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force Days... Congratulations to Southeast Missouri State graduates (05/16/14) Saturday will be a landmark day for 1,348 Southeast Missouri State University students as they walk across the Show Me Center stage to receive their diplomas. The spring 2014 graduating class for the university includes 1,092 undergraduate and 256 master's and specialist students. From the undergraduates, 27 will graduate with a perfect 4.0 GPA... Air festival offers fun for all ages (05/15/14) A fun-filled air show on Saturday and Sunday will highlight a busy weekend locally. Headlining this year's Cape Girardeau Regional Air Festival will be the Canadian Snowbirds. This is a nine-aircraft team that compares to acts performed by the U.S. Navy's Blue Angels and Air Force Thunderbirds... New citizens show love for United States (05/14/14) For 16 new American citizens, to claim citizenship in this great country is not something to take lightly. Earlier this month a naturalization ceremony was held at the Rush H. Limbaugh Sr. U.S. Courthouse in Cape Girardeau. Sixteen individuals from 12 countries and three continents took the pledge to support the United States... Congratulations to local high school graduates (05/13/14) Area high schools have hosted their proms in recent weeks, a sure sign that graduation is near for a number of students. If you have not already, check out semissourian.com for photo galleries on from the dances. The photos capture some memorable moments... Street crime task force will help region (05/12/14) Several participating police departments and agencies have united in an effort to curb transient crime. Cape Girardeau Police are involved in the Southeast Missouri Street Crimes Task Force, which is simply a cooperative effort between police in different communities to nab criminals who may dart from one community to the next to avoid police. The first organized bust netted 16 arrests, including several for felony drug violations... A tribute to Mothers and a few laughs (05/11/14) Editor's note: The following is the editorial board's annual Mother's Day editorial. Every year, we dutifully and thankfully acknowledge our mothers. We buy gifts. We select greeting cards that say the nicest things. We become part of the crowd at our favorite restaurant... SEMO District Fair changes are a positive (05/09/14) We have not arrived at summer yet, but plans for this area's big fall attraction, the SEMO District Fair, are underway. The 159th SEMO District Fair will be held Sept. 6 to 13. There are a few new attractions this year along with the favorites. Here's a list of a few:... Take time to thank teachers (05/08/14) This week is Teacher Appreciation Week. It's an opportunity to recognize those educators who have made a difference in your life or the lives of your children. On Wednesday night the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce recognized its Educators of the Year. Recipients include the following: Beth St. John, Jackson High School; Heather Miller, high school special education teacher; Jason Bruns, Jackson Middle School; Lisa Goodwin, Orchard Elementary School; and Tammy Mueller, St. Paul Lutheran School... SALT memorial service to remember fallen officers (05/07/14) Members of law enforcement have a challenging job. They serve to protect our communities and weed out crime. This responsibility comes with risks. The families of 48 law enforcement personnel in Southeast Missouri know too well about this danger. An annual Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. ... Leadership Cape projects can come to fruition (05/06/14) The 2014 Leadership Cape class presented five proposals during May's First Friday Coffee. The class believes the projects would add value to this area. Leadership Cape, a program offered through the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce, offers participants an opportunity to hone leadership skills and learn more about the area. ... Unsold food is getting into needy hands (05/05/14) More than 4,500 pounds of unsold food has been distributed to the needy, thanks to a handful of Southeast Missouri State University students and employees. As reported by Emily Priddy last Sunday, a class project has grown into a campus organization. ... Override of tax-cut veto would be appropriate (05/04/14) Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon on Thursday vetoed an income-tax cut put forth by the Republican-led Legislature. Nixon said the measure could devastate funding for public schools and services. Education is a political topic that politicians from both sides of the aisle tend to use as leverage when they debate issues. Education is universally supported and valued... Autism awareness continues to increase locally (05/02/14) For families with an autistic son or daughter, learning about autism and the opportunities to help their child is an ongoing effort. Thankfully, this area has rallied around the issue and therapies and social development opportunities have emerged. The Southeast Missourian ran a story on Wednesday about autism. ... Local events to be held today for National Day of Prayer (05/01/14) We have much to pray about. There are global issues like terrorism, economics and poverty. Earlier this week part of the U.S. was ravaged by severe weather and tornadoes. As of Wednesday morning, at least 35 people had died as a result of the storms. Thousands are without power... Derby parties to raise money for LFCS, Big Brothers Big Sisters (04/30/14) A couple of organizations that do good work locally will raise some important funds this week when two separate Kentucky Derby parties are hosted in Cape Girardeau. The Boas & Bling Kentucky Derby Party is scheduled for 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday at The Venue. The party includes giveaways and music, and there will be contests for the Bling Queen and best derby hats. Vendors will have booths set up. Money raised benefits the Lutheran Family and Children's Services Foundation... Blues hockey provided excitement for fans (04/29/14) This area loves its baseball and football. The Cardinals are perennial contenders in the playoffs. Though the Rams have struggled in recent times, many still remember Kurt Warner. the Greatest Show on Turf and a Super Bowl win after the 1999 season... Students can explore religion, faith at SEMO (04/28/14) The college-age years are about learning to be independent. For the first time, students can make their own choices about the type of education they want, what classes they want to take (and which ones to skip), what organizations they want to become involved in and what to do with their free time. Such freedom can lead to poor choices, of course... Public needs specifics before fire tax approval (04/27/14) Coming off the heels of a resounding defeat of a use tax pitched to "level the playing field" for area businesses such as car dealerships that could lose business across the river, the Cape Girardeau City Council last week decided to put the renewal of a one-eighth-cent fire sales tax on the ballot for August... Friends of Park Day helps keep city looking good (04/25/14) It's springtime and that means time to spruce up flower beds and gardens and work on house projects. It also means there is an opportunity to help beautify the city of Cape Girardeau. The 29th annual Friends of the Parks Day will be held Saturday. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at Capaha Park. The works begins at 9 a.m... Cape Girardeau City Council welcomes new members (04/24/14) The Cape Girardeau City Council has two new members and soon will have a third. Joseph Uzoaru, the member for Ward 1, and Shelly Moore, who represents Ward 2, were sworn in last week to serve on the city council. Uzoaru replaces John Voss and Moore replaces Meg Davis... Judge Limbaugh Sr. to be recognized at Boy Scout dinner (04/23/14) In some families scouting is a tradition. That was the case for the Limbaughs, and on Thursday night the Boy Scouts of America Greater St. Louis Area Council will recognize former U.S. District Judge Stephen Limbaugh Sr. at the Dr. James A. Kinder Good Scout Award Dinner... Heartbleed bug a reminder to use good practices online (04/22/14) An online security bug was a hot topic this month as companies with a web presence made efforts to patch their websites. The Heartbleed bug affected encryption technology used to secure information over the Internet. A story by reporter Amity Shedd revealed few apparent issues locally with the security hole, but users are encouraged to use good practices online and change passwords regularly... GEDs offer example of individual improvement (04/21/14) It is with pleasure this newspaper publishes stories about people trying to improve. Our society can be brutal at times, particularly to those scuffling on the lower levels of the income ladder; men and women with little income or education can be perceived unfairly by those with little understanding or empathy. It is understood by most of those in successful situations that education is a key component to income ascension. And most people understand that with more income, comes more freedom... Christ is risen: The real reason we celebrate Easter (04/20/14) Editor's note: The following is our annual Easter editorial. A miraculous event 2,000 years ago in Jerusalem changed the world. On this Easter morning, the story is presented again from the Holy Bible (the Gospel according to St. Matthew, Chapter 28):... On Good Friday we remember Jesus' sacrifice (04/18/14) It's odd that the day we remember Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is called Good Friday. Crucifixion and good don't ordinarily belong in the same sentence. But for believers in Christ, today is the day we remember what Jesus' death on the cross means... Color Me Cape brings big crowd to area (04/17/14) You might say Cape Girardeau's downtown has color -- especially on Saturday when the Color Me Cape 5K made its way to the area. More than 2,000 people participated in the race, which was not about time but about the experience and raising money for good organizations... Teen Challenge continues to help men overcome life of drugs (04/16/14) Drugs will rob a person of anything important in life. Family. Friends. Work. The list goes on. There is hope, however. On Saturday Teen Challenge International of Mid America, a faith-based organization, held its annual banquet in Cape Girardeau. The night included singing and testimonies. New this year, each man in the program sat at the table with supporters... Bone marrow registry can help save lives (04/15/14) Bone marrow donations play an important role in treating individuals with various illnesses. People with leukemia, lymphoma or sickle cell anemia, among other diseases, may need these donations as they seek healing and relevant treatment options. If you know a person who has battled similar ailments, you may know the struggle and how bone marrow donations can help... Celebrating brainpower at Math Field Day (04/14/14) Nearly 700 students from 28 junior and senior high schools around the region, including Illinois, assembled last week for the Math Field Day at the Show Me Center. In its 37th year, the turnout was higher this year than the last couple of years. Educators hope the event provides a way for the students to have fun in a competitive environment and measure where their math programs stack up with others in the region... Do your part to help clean the city (04/13/14) Spring's warmth has finally arrived, bringing a welcome break from winter's harshness. With it comes walks and baseball games, window shopping and a long list of excuses to consume the fresh air. We'd like to offer a friendly reminder that the 70s also clamor for cleaning... Arrow, Southeast Missourian recognized with awards (04/11/14) Awards are not the reason we in the newspaper business do what we do. It's about sharing important information with readers, providing a forum for discussion and including perspective. It's about connecting readers with news. It's about advertisers having an opportunity to connect with customers. It's about playing a role in the communities in which we live... Soles4Souls a worthy cause to support (04/10/14) Soles4Souls is a not-for-profit organization that provides shoes to orphanages and other places with individuals in need worldwide. Locally, Cheryl Reinagel, Rhonda Weller-Stillson and Robyn Jones have helped lead the charge for donations. Last year almost 3,000 pairs of shoes were donated from this area. As of Wednesday afternoon, 1,600 pairs of shoes were donated with more to be counted... Roger Fields was a joy to know (04/09/14) There are some people who are simply a joy to know and be around. Roger Fields was one of those special individuals. The assistant police chief for Cape Girardeau died March 30 from "a complex medical condition," according to a police department news release... Students practice what they preach (04/08/14) In February the students at Notre Dame Regional High School had a chance to gain experience. It wasn't an internship or something to build a resume, but during the Franciscan Service Week 10 students along with two adults helped local organizations help others... Puppies for Parole program a win-win (04/07/14) Sure, those little furry canines are cute. But the Puppies for Parole program isn't just about the animals. The Humane Society of Southeast Missouri is working with the maximum-security correctional facility in Potosi, Mo., to have canines enter people prisons to be trained. The hope is prisoners, many of them violent, can help train the dogs over a period of time so the dogs can be adopted... Local elections are vital responsibility (04/06/14) In today's newspaper you will find a lot of space dedicated to Tuesday's election. We have more than 50 profiles and questionnaires of people running for local office. There are more than a handful of local races, including many races for school boards in our communities... Public art, Messy Morning highlight busy weekend (04/04/14) Cape Girardeau's Broadway gained seven sculptures this week, part of continuing efforts to revitalize downtown Cape Girardeau. The public art comes from seven individuals: Ben Pierce, of Cape Girardeau; Chris Wubbena, of Jackson; Andy Arvanetes, of Chicago; Mike Baur, of West Chicago, Ill.; Beth Nybeck, of Kansas City, Mo.; Dan Perry, of Waterloo, Iowa; and Stephanie Sailer, of Swisher, Iowa... Cheering fans bring excitement to high school sports (04/03/14) High school sports competitions have a unique atmosphere. Crowds can be made up of parents cheering on children, alumni reveling in their playing days and students. Reporter Ruth Campbell wrote about several local student-led cheering sections for a story that appeared in the March 20 edition of the Southeast Missourian... Uncertainty abounds with health care law (04/02/14) If you are a business owner or managing your personal finances, having some degree of certainty is key. Sure, there will be changes to the plan. An unexpected health expense. A downturn in the economy. But for someone looking at a budget and trying to manage expenses, the more confidence in numbers the better... Southeast gymnastics finishes season strong (04/01/14) The gymnastics team of Southeast Missouri State University finished its season on a positive note. The squad won the Midwest Independent Conference Championship on March 22. Coach Kristi Ewasko spoke about how proud of the team she was and what winning meant to the gymnasts... Opening Day 2014: Welcome back baseball (03/31/14) The National League champion St. Louis Cardinals start the season on the road today in Cincinnati against the Reds. This year's team has a lot to like, and here are a few things to watch for this season. Manager Mike Matheny's challenge will be to find time off for the prize catcher. A full season takes its toll on any player's body. The Cardinals are used to playing in October, so to keep Molina fresh, it will be important to give him time off -- regardless of whether Molina wants it... Use tax a vote for business fairness (03/30/14) It's a strange ask, this use tax issue. We taxpayers are usually presented with a governmental or public need when a new or extended tax measure appears on our ballots. Increase a tax here, get better roads there. More taxes in exchange for new school buildings or new park improvements... Area musicians take talent to 'The Voice' (03/28/14) Three area musicians made their mark on a national stage recently in appearances on "The Voice," a reality TV show in which singers try out for the opportunity to move on with a celebrity judge as a coach. Bernie brothers Coty and Clinton Walker sang "Keep Me in Mind" on the March 3 show. The twin brothers, who go by Brothers Walker, were picked up by celebrity judge Usher... Congratulations to Notre Dame Hall of Fame members (03/27/14) Notre Dame Regional High School recognized five of the school's top former athletes last month at its Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The new inductees include Lloyd Williams (1963-1967), Mary Jane (Glueck) Schwieger (1976-1980), Steve Schott (1979-1983), Scott Wittenborn (1998-2002) and Ali (Tyson) Taufoou (1999-2003)... Iranian women bring inspiring testimony to Cape church (03/26/14) The genius of the U.S. Constitution starts with the First Amendment: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof ..." A driving reason for America's early settlers was that they wished to worship God freely. It's clear the Founders of this country were men of faith... It's only March, but August voting will come soon (03/25/14) It's been relatively quiet the past few weeks on the election front. However, a story over the weekend in the Southeast Missourian highlighted several races in which incumbent officeholders will see opponents in the August primary or November general election, including Missouri House of Representatives District 8... The basketball dynasty in Morley, Mo. (03/24/14) In Missouri, millions of sports fans are enthralled by the success of the St. Louis Cardinals. Fans hold up the number "11" as a matter of pride -- the number of World Series won, the most by any team in the National League. Around the nation, the college basketball championship has gripped fans everywhere. Fans are in awe of UCLA's 11 titles and Kentucky's eight... Big step taken on Levi's Adventure Trail (03/23/14) More than 50 friends, family members and community leaders gathered recently to break ground for Levi's Adventure Trail, an outdoor exhibit for children at Discovery Playhouse. Levi Collom, a 3-year-old from Benton, Mo., died March 18, 2012, from Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood. The groundbreaking was on the anniversary of his death. The exhibit is being built to honor him by bringing his love of outdoors to other children. Levi loved to camp and going to the river... Central Junior High students perform musical comedy (03/21/14) There's a lot going on this weekend. Plenty of events to attend in the area. But one local school will present a musical that should draw good crowds. Central Junior High School in Cape Girardeau was set to open the first of three performances of "Once Upon a Mattress" Thursday night at the school's auditorium... Comic Con, Home & Garden Show set for the weekend (03/20/14) Two major events will take place this weekend in Cape Girardeau. About 1,200 people are expected to attend Cape Comic Con Friday through Sunday at the Arena Building in Cape Girardeau. The annual event, now in its ninth year, has been a major attraction for the city. More than 100 tables of comics and merchandise will be on hand... Congratulations to retiring Judge Blanton (03/19/14) Former U.S. Magistrate Judge Lewis M. Blanton spent a career in the judicial system. A former associate judge in Scott County, Blanton was named the southeastern division's first sitting U.S. magistrate judge for the Eastern District of Missouri in 1991. He served in the court for the next two decades, recently retiring after 23 years... Severe weather is nothing to play around with (03/18/14) Another blast of winter weather covered the area Sunday afternoon. Big flakes graced the grass and roadways -- not something we think of on March 16. Thankfully, the latest round of white stuff was not nearly as much as we've seen since December. With forecasts calling for more springlike temperatures today we hope we're on the way to spring... Congratulations to Old Town Cape honorees (03/17/14) Old Town Cape recognized a handful of individuals and organizations recently for their role in preserving history and involvement in the downtown community. Drs. Bert and Mary Ann Kellerman took home two of the awards bestowed Feb. 27. The first was the Judith Ann Crow Residential Historic Rehabilitation Award for their work rehabilitating the Oliver-Leming House, which is home of the Missouri state flag. ... It's important to have open, transparent public entities (03/16/14) This week is Sunshine Law Week across the nation. It's a week to recognize the importance of transparency in government. It's a fundamental cornerstone of democracy, but it's a topic not often brought up unless a controversy arises. When people think about a lack of transparency in federal government, they think of scandals such as Benghazi or the NSA's sweeping surveillance program. ... Remembering David Crowe, who inspired so many (03/14/14) Last week, Cape Girardeau lost a great man. Dr. David Crowe was blessed with a unique mind. His intellect allowed him to become an orthodontist, and he helped improve smiles of countless youth and adults over many decades. His kind demeanor put his patients at ease. They will miss him... High school basketball teams make it to the Final Four (03/13/14) The road to become state champions for two local high school basketball teams continues today in Columbia, Mo. The Saxony Lutheran girls basketball team won 59-52 over Lutheran St. Charles on Saturday during the Class 3 quarterfinal contest held in Hillsboro... Discovery Playhouse looks to grow with construction (03/12/14) The Discovery Playhouse recently announced it will be able to expand the children's play museum to the second floor for more exhibits, thanks to community support and tax credits. Among the new plans are to bring in new exhibits that will appeal to children ages 9 through 12 years old... Regional science fair will feature projects from area students (03/11/14) Today the Show Me Center is the location for a grand display of hard work and innovation. The Southeast Missouri Regional Science Fair, now in its 58th year, will feature 319 projects. With 27 area schools and 441 students contributing, the annual event should feature some interesting ideas and reflect much hard work and study... Local business man Crader left impressive legacy (03/10/14) A local businessman remembered for his faith and love of people died Feb. 23. Donald "Don" Crader was the CEO of Crader Distributing Co. in Marble Hill, Mo., and Blue Mountain Equipment in McKinney, Texas. Continuing the family business, Crader's company works with more than 2,200 Stihl dealerships and is the exclusive Stihl outdoor power equipment distributor for Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and Southern Illinois... Museum celebrates 175 years of Lutheran history (03/09/14) East Perry County is without question one of the most beautiful areas in Southeast Missouri. The land features rolling pasture and crop land, old farms and quaint small towns rich in history. The area is proud of its German and Lutheran heritage. The Lutheran Heritage Center & Museum is observing the 175th anniversary of the immigration of 700 Lutherans from Saxony, Germany... Teen's donated organs help others live (03/07/14) It is especially heart-wrenching to read about young people who die from illness or a traumatic accident. The family and friends of Dominic "Dom" Hooper recently mourned the loss of a son, schoolmate and friend. Hooper, 17, died in an ATV accident in late February. He was a high school student at Scott City, active with school clubs and the Scott City basketball, baseball and football teams... Area monument will help honor Seabees (03/07/14) The U.S. Navy Seabees are not members of the armed forces we hear much about on a regular basis. Their importance, though, should not be overlooked. On Saturday, a new Seabee monument is scheduled to be unveiled at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery at Bloomfield, Mo. A 1:30 p.m. ceremony will be held Saturday at the cemetery. Veterans from World War II, Korea and Vietnam will be included... Raising money for babies in Swaziland, Africa (03/06/14) On Saturday, a group supporting efforts to help orphans in Swaziland, Africa, will hold a fundraising event in Cape Girardeau. Babies in Swaziland often are discarded as they are born into poverty, typically from teens who exchange sex for food. The event, in its fifth year, is called Celebrate HOPE, and it is held at The Venue at 80 S. ... The Lenten season can help us grow in faith in Christ (03/05/14) The Lenten season begins today. This is a time leading up to Easter Sunday when many Christians pay extra attention to fasting, prayer and reading the Bible. It's a time of giving up something, all in the effort of growing in faith and one's relationship with God... Cape woman represents area well in Mrs. Mo. contest (03/04/14) A Cape Girardeau business professor was recognized with an eye-catching honor Saturday night. Dr. Erin R. Fluegge-Woolf, a Southeast Missouri State University faculty member, was crowned Mrs. Missouri at the state contest held in Kansas City, Mo. Fluegge-Woolf is the latest in an impressive history of local women who have won the competition. A story in Sunday's Southeast Missourian said that more than a dozen women from the Southeast Missouri region have won the title... Congratulations to all ADDY winners (03/03/14) Several media companies and marketing businesses were represented in this year's ADDY awards, put on by the Tri-State Advertising and Marketing Professionals group. More than 120 print, interactive, broadcast and multimedia projects were considered, including those from organizations in Kentucky and Illinois... If a shooter enters, what do you do? (03/02/14) The city of Cape Girardeau is the latest of many public and private entities that have made training for a live mass shooting incident a priority. Recently 56 city employees took part in ALICE training, which is an acronym for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter and Evacuate... Father-daughter dance a quality event for community (02/28/14) It was good to see fathers and daughters enjoy a night of dancing Saturday when the annual Father-Daughter Dance was held at Cape Girardeau's Osage Centre. More than 1,000 came out for the annual event. If you didn't participate or want to relive the night, check out the photo gallery from Southeast Missourian photographer Laura Simon. You can view the photos at semissourian.com/multimedia... Dr. Ben Carson speech in Sikeston was inspiring (02/27/14) Americans love a success story. One that pairs an individual facing tough odds but nevertheless finding a way to succeed. That's the story of Dr. Ben Carson. The retired neurosurgeon, current political speaker and author spoke at the Sikeston Field House Saturday to a crowd of more than 1,500. His message covered several topics but centered around personal responsibility, learning something new each day and voting... Former police chief remembered fondly (02/26/14) Howard "Butch" Boyd, the former police chief in Cape Girardeau, died Feb. 18 at the age of 73. Boyd was a member of the U.S. Naval Reserve. He spent six years in active duty with another 26 in the reserves. His 26-year career with the Cape Girardeau Police Department included positions of training officer, administrative assistant, SWAT team commander, internal affairs officer and director of field operations. ... Peter Pan features SEMO students, professional lead (02/25/14) The Southeast Missouri State University production of "Peter Pan" kicks off Wednesday in the Bedell Performance Hall at the River Campus. The performances will feature 22 theater and dance majors from Southeast, two local children and professional actress Emily S. Grosland as "Peter Pan."... Game pits Cape schools at Show Me Center (02/24/14) Every sports season comes with great moments. This year's high school basketball season has been no exception. Jackson's boys, for example, won the Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament and clinched a share of the SEMO Conference regular-season title Friday to go with their conference tournament championship. ... The continuing progress of the Cape Girardeau area (02/23/14) If your newspaper reading habits don't include thumbing through the inserts, we would like you to pause today to check out our annual Progress edition. It's a healthy reminder of great work that's being done in Cape Girardeau, Jackson and the surrounding area... Cape Girardeau to host public art along Broadway (02/21/14) The downtown area has undergone several changes in recent years. The Broadway Corridor project was a major undertaking. Individual business owners and groups have worked to improve properties and bring events to the area that feature this part of the city. Classic car shows, a farmers market and Tunes at Twilight, are a few of the festivities downtown... Crisp museum features high school artists through March 16 (02/20/14) Many of the area's top artists in high school have their work on display at the River Campus. The 36th annual High School Art Exhibition was held Feb. 9. More than 300 pieces were submitted; 100-plus are on display at the Crisp Museum through March 16... Mo. flag panel appears to be waste of time (02/19/14) As a state, we face a number of issues. Missouri's General Assembly will debate many topics that could affect those of us who call the Show Me State home. Whether it's taxes, health care, education funding or any other issue, legislators have plenty to do this session. That's why we're a bit confused one state legislator would like to spend valuable time -- and funding from the office of the secretary of state -- on forming a panel to consider changes to Missouri's state flag... Play ball: SEMO baseball and softball off to good starts (02/18/14) Picture it: It's 70 degrees with sunshine and a light breeze blowing. The aroma of ballpark food is in the air. Fans flock to Cherry Hill and the first base side at Capaha Field. This, eventually, will be the scene for Redhawks baseball in Cape Girardeau... Presidents Day, celebrating Washington and others (02/17/14) Many of you reading this newspaper today might be doing so a little later than usual, since you might not have to go to work. Today is Presidents Day. According to history.com, Presidents Day is celebrated on the third Monday every February, originally established in 1885 in recognition of George Washington, our country's first president... Teen Challenge opens new chapel (02/16/14) Teen Challenge, a faith-based organization that helps addicted men recover, on Monday dedicated a 5,500-square-foot chapel that seats 325 people. About 160 residents, mostly men in their 20s, joined a crowd of supporters for the dedication. The chapel cost $300,000 and was completed in less than a year. It opens debt-free, thanks to money donated to the organization. Read more about the dedication on today's Faith page... Marriage is to be celebrated - especially on Valentine's Day (02/14/14) Today's a day to celebrate love. It's Valentine's Day. The holiday is named after a courageous priest who was sentenced to death on Feb. 14 around 270 A.D. Emperor Claudius II decreed marriage to be against the law in the third century, and Valentine, a priest in Rome, defied the ruling and continued to oversee marriages in secret. For this he lost his life... Concussion seminar brings attention to important issue (02/13/14) Sports safety is serious business, particularly head injuries that lead to concussions. On Jan. 29 more than 100 people attended a daylong seminar about head injuries from sports at the Osage Centre in Cape Girardeau. Dr. Joseph F. Waeckerle, a former team physician for the Kansas City Chiefs and clinical professor at the University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Medicine, spoke to the group about concussion awareness, having a "Team Plan" and the importantance of realizing concussions are not a minor event.. ... Ozzie Smith named speaker for Semoball Awards (02/12/14) On Monday Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith was announced as the celebrity speaker for the Semoball Awards banquet that will be held on June 21 at the Show Me Center. Semoball.com is a regional sports website contributed to by five daily newspapers in Southeast Missouri... Local high schools recognized for seat belt use (02/11/14) Three local high schools recently were recognized for achieving high rates of seat belt use by students. Saxony Lutheran High School, with a seat belt use rate of 98.9 percent, won the Southeast Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety's award for highest use. The school will receive $500 through American Family Insurance to use in future campaigns promoting seat belt use, according to a news release... Students put robots to the test (02/10/14) It's always fun to see students putting their learning into action. There's no better example of this than the annual robotics competition, called the FIRST Technology Challenge, at the Show Me Center. On Feb. 2, 46 high schools were represented as robotics teams but their robots to the test in a cage match of sorts. Teams design and build their remote-controlled gadgets to defeat other robots. It's a competition that puts the mind to work... Dr. Ben Carson - a story worth hearing (02/09/14) An inner city child grows up in Detroit poverty. Initially he makes poor grades and deals with low self- esteem. But he keeps studying, keeps working. He reads and reads and reads. The child pours himself into his studies, goes to college. Eventually he becomes a pediatric neurosurgeon... Congratulations to chamber award winners (02/07/14) A longtime Cape Girardeau resident and community leader, a local pharmacy and banking executive were recognized Jan. 31 at the annual banquet for the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce. Businessman Jim Maurer received the Rush H. Limbaugh Award. Maurer is a board member for PAJCO, the Rhodes 101 Stops holding company. Maurer has been an active member of the community and his church, serving on the Southeast Missouri State University Foundation Board and Old Town Cape... Olympics bring out best in sports (02/06/14) There is something about hearing the national anthem at a sporting event, especially when it's the Olympic Games. Today starts a two-plus week adventure. Many will be watch the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia. The first opportunity to watch the games is tonight, featuring figure skating and freestyle skiing... New Safe House director seeks to help more people (02/05/14) The Safe House for Women recently announced the organization has a new executive director. Allison Leonard, who previously served as director of operations, was named executive director. In addition to her work with Safe House, Leonard previously worked at the Department of Social Services... Election Day for voters in Cape's Ward 2 (02/04/14) It's Election Day for one ward in Cape Girardeau. Today's primary election for Ward 2 in Cape Girardeau includes three candidates who seek to serve on the city council. Ward 2 includes the south side of Cape Girardeau and most of the downtown area. If you're unsure about which ward you reside in, call the county clerk's office at 243-3547. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m... Tips for preventing cyberthefts (02/03/14) The recent data breach at Target has made victims of consumers in Southeast Missouri. About 40 million debit and credit card numbers were stolen between Nov. 27 and Dec. 15. The company later learned personal information, including email and home addresses, phone numbers and names, were swiped from as many as 70 million customers... Super Bowl Sunday almost as popular as newspapers (02/02/14) Today is one of the most festive days of the year in the United States. Super Bowl Sunday has become an unofficial holiday celebrating the most popular sport in America. It is a day for parties, gatherings and snacking. This year's Big Game pits the Denver Broncos against the Seattle Seahawks, a game of contrasting styles. Peyton Manning leads the world's best passing offense against the toughest defense in the NFL. It should be a great football game... Rock musician to speak at LaCroix Church (01/31/14) You might recognize the name Brian "Head" Welch. He played guitar for the rock band Korn and quickly attained worldly fame. But there was something missing. Welch's life was filled with drugs, sex and hard living. A single father, he left the band in 2005 and became a born-again Christian... Support Southeast gymnastics, other teams (01/30/14) The Southeast Missouri State University gymnastics team returns home for a meet Friday night with Lindenwood. The Redhawks, in their lone home match, lost to Kent State. They have since gone 2-2 with wins over Cornell and UIC. The gymnastics squad is known for something else: Academic excellence. In August the team was recognized by the National Association of Collegiate Gymnastics Coaches/Women for the highest cumulative GPA for all NCAA programs. The Redhawks had a 3.8146 GPA... Good to see students use A+ (01/29/14) According to a report presented at the recent Jackson School Board meeting, more students in the district are looking at the A+ Program. Amanda Forester, A+ coordinator, said 62 seniors are "on track;" she expects the number could reach 100 by the end of school this spring. During the 2012-13 school year, 95 students were eligible... Thanks to school board members (01/29/14) This week is recognized as School Board Member Appreciation Week. Letters to the editor from two local superintendents recently appeared on the Opinion page expressing thanks to the individuals who volunteer their time to serve on local school boards... 'The Magic Flute' coming to River Campus (01/28/14) Later this week the Southeast Missouri State University Department of Music will present "The Magic Flute" at the River Campus. The Mozart opera is an opportunity to hear talented vocalists attending Southeast and enjoy what looks to be an impressive production... Jackson chamber honors businesses, individuals (01/27/14) The Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its annual banquet, where more than 400 gathered to eat, network and celebrate businesses and individuals who were honored by the organization. Dr. Dwight Johnson won the R.A. Fulenwider Meritorious Community Service Award. Johnson has been involved in many, many organizations, from youth sports to medical and community organizations. Johnson opened his dental practice in 1974... Abortion facility inspections a step in right direction (01/26/14) Abortion remains one of the most pertinent morality issues that divides the United States. More than half of the people polled in this country -- 52 percent in 2013 -- believe abortion should be legal only under certain circumstances, according to Gallup polls. ... Southeast to recognize athletes at hall of fame dinner (01/24/14) Southeast Missouri State University will welcome several new members to its hall of fame tonight as the athletics program recognizes the accomplishments of past players and supporters. The hall of fame includes 76 individuals and 15 teams. The 2014 inductees include Eugene Amano, Dan Connolly, Kathleen Hudson, Miles Smith, the Kohlfeld Family and the 1996 volleyball team... Insufficient sleep can lead to health problems (01/23/14) Get the children up. Grab breakfast before school. Head to work. Put in a full day and run to various activities at night. For many, life can be hectic, and sometimes basic needs like sleep suffer. A story from the Centers from Disease Control and Prevention that appeared on the Jan. 14 Health page of the Southeast Missourian highlighted the importance of getting enough zzz's... Finalist announcements start for Semoball Awards (01/22/14) We hope you read Sunday's announcements in the Southeast Missourian and online at semoball.com/awards about the first group of finalists for the Semoball Awards, a first-class sports banquet to be held in June at the Show Me Center. Leading off was the football offense category. ... Volunteers with meal deliveries are appreciated (01/21/14) There's no shortage of ways people can volunteer in this community. A story by reporter Amity Shedd in the Jan. 13 Southeast Missourian highlighted a meal delivery program for homebound seniors. The reasons these individuals can't get out vary. They could be receiving the meals on a short-term basis after surgery or need the service regularly because of chronic health problems... Events celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (01/20/14) Today is the day our nation celebrates the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. King, obviously, is an iconic figure in our nation's history, leading efforts to ensure equal opportunities for minority Americans. It can't be overstated on the effect King had on rights for black Americans... Headlines don't tell complete story on crime (01/19/14) If you start listing the high-profile crimes that have happened in recent years, it's easy to get the wrong impression. There have been some big crimes in our region: murders and homicides; bank robberies, murder-suicides, big fraud cases and even some bizarre and less-serious crimes that got some buzz -- a woman stealing artwork in broad daylight from McDonald's being just one example... STEM University helps young people learn (01/17/14) There have been numerous advances in technology and science in our lifetimes. It wasn't long ago that smartphones were new. Today, many people rely on the devices to help get work done. Science and medicine continue to grow, and the importance of math and engineering skills should continue... USPS council could lead to marginal improvements (01/16/14) The United States Postal Service has received its fair share of criticism in recent months. There have been changes in pickup times, with mail from the area sent to St. Louis before returning. Particularly during the winter weather, many customers were receiving mail late into the evening... E-ticketing an example of working smarter (01/15/14) You have likely heard the term "work smarter." In business, it's a way of talking about efficiency, whether through time or other resources. The same concept applies to government. At the Cape Girardeau City Council meeting earlier this month, first-round approval was given to start an electronic ticketing system. ... Military election filing bill a common sense move (01/14/14) Some people believe the order in which a candidate's name appears on a ballot makes a difference. State Sen. Wayne Wallingford (R-Cape Girardeau) has sponsored legislation that would allow candidates who are serving in the armed forces or who are disabled and cannot file for office in person an option to send a proxy in their absence... Old Town Cape touts success in 2013 (01/13/14) Old Town Cape was busy in 2013. In a recent presentation to the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, Old Town Cape executive director Marla Mills told the group some impressive numbers. The most impressive might be that more than 25 new businesses opened in Old Town Cape's district, which covers 130 blocks... Cape had great year drawing visitors (01/12/14) In the area of tourism, there is no doubt the city has been very successful in drawing more people. Over the years, the city government, with the support of voters, has developed more infrastructure and recruitment to make the city an attractive destination. Private enterprise has done even more... Messiah choir combines voices from the community (01/10/14) The first of two concerts featuring portions of Handel's "Messiah" will be Sunday at New McKendree United Methodist Church in Jackson. The Messiah Choir, a group of singers from several churches in the area, have performed the Christmas portion of Handel's famous oratorio in January for the past few years. ... City made good decision on delaying solar panels (01/09/14) There are times when putting the brakes on a major undertaking in city government is the right call. This was the case recently when the city of Cape Girardeau determined to hold off, at least for now, on solar panels for several city properties. City engineer Casey Brunke told the Southeast Missourian the city advertised two times this fall for bids on solar panels. ... Take time to enjoy Missouri's trails (01/08/14) The recent single-digit and subzero temperatures haven't been conducive to outside activities. Eventually, though, the weather will warm up and lead to more opportunities to enjoy outdoor fun. A Jan. 2 story by Southeast Missourian reporter Erin Ragan highlighted several individuals who participated in an annual First Day Hike at Trail of Tears State Park... Plenty of college, high school basketball to watch (01/07/14) After a good start to the season, the Southeast Missouri State men's basketball team lost its second conference game Saturday night 80-74 to Austin Peay. Despite the slow start in the conference schedule, the Redhawks have shown promise this season. There was the dramatic win in an overtime game against IUPUI. When facing nationally ranked Memphis, the Redhawks hung tough in a 77-65 loss... Central FCA shares hope by helping Joplin family (01/06/14) Thirteen teenagers involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes spent a recent weekend in Webb City, Mo., helping a family still reeling from the Joplin tornado from a couple of years ago. Working with a not-for-profit group in Webb City, the local FCA found a family that needed help. A five-bedroom house had been donated to a family in need, but it needed major renovations... Tips for extreme cold weather safety (01/05/14) If the forecast comes true, we could see temperatures today and the coming days reach as low as they've been since 1996. Wind chills could dip as low as minus 20. That means frost bite is possible in fewer than 30 minutes of exposure. Risk for hypothermia increases... Arts Council to recognize local contributions to arts community (01/03/14) Tonight, several individuals' contributions to the local arts community will be recognized as the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri holds its annual Dingeldein Gala. Named after a longtime contributor to the arts and founder of the arts council, the Otto F. Dingeldein Award was started in 1975 and recognizes living individuals who have made a difference in the arts community... Jackson captures Christmas Tournament title (01/02/14) It was another exciting end to the Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament Monday night. In a matchup of rival schools, Jackson defeated Cape Girardeau Central 59-55 in the championship contest at the Show Me Center. After the first half, Jackson led Central 27-18. But Central came out strong in the third quarter, falling just short in its comeback effort... Celebrate the new year with ‘Auld Lang Syne' (12/31/13) The following is our annual New Year's Eve editorial. Tonight we celebrate the beginning of a new year. And the song that many will sing as the clock strikes midnight is "Auld Lang Syne." Here is an excerpt of the song. Should old acquaintance be forgot,... New Year's Eve celebrations (12/30/13) New Year's Eve is a great time to celebrate another 365 days; to join friends, to collectively let our hair down and enjoy an evening out. There's nothing wrong with spending New Year's at home, playing board games and watching the ball drop on television, of course... Semoball Awards: Recognizing the best in high school sports (12/29/13) There's something special about high school sports. They combine school spirit with team camaraderie and young athletes, who give great effort. The atmosphere can be dynamic. Need proof? Come to Monday night's championship game at the Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament for high school boys basketball at the Show Me Center... Southeast football begins a new era with Coach 'Tuke' (12/27/13) Several days ago Southeast Missouri State University athletic director Mark Alnutt introduced his new football coach. Tom Matukewicz, former defensive coordinator at Toledo as well as a former coach at Southern Illinois University, certainly made a good impression at the news conference... Notre Dame athletes win with giving attitude (12/26/13) Today starts the Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament at the Show Me Center. Teams will compete and fans will fill the arena in the coming days to root on their favorite schools. It's about good competition and good sportsmanship. Sportsmanship is an important thing in sports. It teaches athletes life lessons that go beyond the field or court... Christmas: The Savior is born (12/24/13) It is a simple story, but the birth in a stable some 2,000 years ago changed the world. On this Christmas Eve, the story is told again from the Holy Bible (the Gospel according to St. Luke, Chapter 2):And it came to pass in those days that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one unto his own city.... Christmas tourney should bring good competition (12/23/13) As everyone looks forward to family gatherings on Christmas Eve and Christmas, we'd like to officially invite everyone out for another holiday tradition the day after the presents are opened: The Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament. The basketball tournament tradition began in 1945, and it helps fill a gap while school is out for the holidays. The four-day event begins Thursday, and games will be played Friday and Saturday with the championship games to be played Monday... Salvation Army needs help last few days before Christmas (12/22/13) The holiday shopping season was cut short a bit this year, with the late Thanksgiving. The Cape Girardeau Salvation Army knew it was facing that calendar challenge heading into its Red Kettle campaign. Then a major snowstorm hit during a major weekend for donations and hurt the bell ringers to the tune of more than $20,000... Congratulations to SEMO graduates (12/20/13) It will be a memorable day on Saturday for hundreds of students, parents and other family members as Southeast Missouri State University holds its winter commencement. The university will recognize 740 students with a 2 p.m. ceremony Saturday at the Show Me Center. ... Major step reached toward downtown CID (12/19/13) There have been significant changes in Cape Girardeau's downtown in recent years, including the Broadway Corridor Project. Now a local group has worked on a possible Downtown Community Improvement District to address other needs in the area, focusing on cleanup and security... SEMO programs a good step for students (12/18/13) Southeast Missouri State University recently shared information on two programs that will benefit students. The Associate's Plus program will begin in the fall of 2014. Through its regional campuses in Kennett, Malden and Sikeston, Mo., students can take courses through the university and online via Missouri State University-West Plains toward a two-year associate degree. ... Be mindful of fire safety this winter (12/17/13) The outdoor smell of fireplaces burning is common these days. Winter's chill leads more people to add a log to the fire, using fireplaces to heat homes. This makes fireplace safety, and other fire prevention tips, all the more important. Reporter Emily Priddy recently wrote a story that included tips from area professionals. These included:... Five warning signs to watch to prevent senior fraud (12/16/13) Local fraud cases have captured big headlines in recent months. In two cases, hundreds of thousands of dollars are alleged to have been taken from seniors. On Thursday, the Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander visited Cape Girardeau's senior center to remind our aging population to take extra precaution when "investors" come knocking... Toybox, Christmas for the Elderly support needed (12/15/13) As we all cross gifts off our lists this Christmas season, we'd like to offer another reminder about our Toybox and Christmas for the Elderly programs. The Toybox program delivers toys to children in Cape Girardeau who wouldn't otherwise receive presents. Toys may be dropped off at dozens of locations, including the Southeast Missourian, until Dec. 19... Downtown Cape, Jackson parade offer fun activities (12/13/13) As with several other events, winter weather postponed last weekend's Downtown Christmas Open House in Cape Girardeau and the Jackson Christmas Parade. Both have been rescheduled for this weekend. The Old Town Cape Downtown Christmas Open House will be from 5 to 9 tonight. There will be caroling, wagon rides and pictures with Santa. Adults can pick up ticket packets for a chance to win a $1,500 shopping spree in downtown Cape Girardeau... Percussion concert a festive event for all ages (12/12/13) One of the joys the Christmas season provides is music. Fun, festive and joyful music. One of those opportunities is coming up Saturday. The Percussion Ensemble's Family Holiday Concert is set for 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Donald C. Bedell Performance Hall. There's no cost to attend. The event will be a hit for all ages, but it's especially good for families with young children... Former Advance mayor demonstrated a life of service (12/11/13) James Harnes Sr., a 17-year mayor of Advance and businessman, died Dec. 2. The Southeast Missourian Spirit of America recipient in 2007, Harnes' obituary included an impressive list of public service and civic and community involvement. This included: auditor for the Missouri Department of Insurance; mayor of advance from 1992 to 2009; member of Advance First Baptist Church, Gideons and Lakewood Masonic Lodge 489 AF&AM; and board member for the Veterans Home Foundation and Cross Trails Medical Center. ... Despite winter weather, food packing a huge success (12/10/13) Last week's winter weather put a stop to a lot of things. Schools canceled. Community events postponed. The area was a winter wonderland. But sleet and snow didn't prevent more than 2,700 volunteers from gathering Saturday and Sunday to pack meals for starving children around the world... Drury a visionary and compassionate leader (12/09/13) Robert "Bob" Drury was a visionary and business leader. His influence, though strong in Southeast Missouri, extended well beyond throughout the United States. On Thursday, Drury died at the age of 81. Those who have lived in this area for the past two decades remember west Cape Girardeau before its development. ... Media are boycotting Obama-approved photos (12/08/13) A movement is underway by major media organizations to no longer use images of President Obama provided by White House photographers. Obama's administration has limited the availability of journalist photographers in many settings, igniting a strong reaction from media organizations that argue propaganda extends beyond the print and into the lens as well... SEC Championship game the next stop for Mizzou football (12/06/13) As the summer heat gave way to fall's crisp air and college football fans rooted for their favorite teams, few could imagine the University of Missouri football team would be in the hunt for the SEC Championship. But that's where the Tigers find themselves this weekend as they face No. 3 Auburn in Atlanta... Events on the schedule, but may change due to winter storm (12/05/13) Based on the weather forecast, Southeast Missouri will experience its first significant winter storm this season with a mixture of snow, sleet, rain and freezing rain all possible later today and Friday. A Winter Storm Warning has been issued until 6 p.m. Friday for Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Carter, Perry, Ripley, Scott, Stoddard and Wayne counties in Missouri and nine counties in Southern Illinois... Writing skills should not be overlooked (12/04/13) Social media continues to occupy the time of young and old alike. More and more options have developed for people to get the sound bite information they want, when they want it. Information can be shared with a small group of friends or the masses. Our newsroom uses these channels to link stories and photos and share breaking news, sports and weather information. Based on the trend we're seeing among those who follow us, it's clear people are paying attention and like this form of communication... Provost an important role for university (12/03/13) Southeast Missouri State University announced Nov. 26 its decision on who will be the next provost at the university. Dr. Bill Eddleman, a 19-year university faculty member, was chosen to succeed Dr. Ron Rosati. Dr. Gerald McDougall served as interim provost... Two young groups answer call for tornado cleanup (12/02/13) Once again we've been reminded that while every tragedy takes a toll, it also reveals character. The violent storms that ripped through Southeast Missouri and several parts of Illinois a couple of weeks ago destroyed several homes and in some areas in Illinois shredded towns and took lives... Long way to go before courthouse configuration (12/01/13) Whenever local government officials try to plan for growth, often they find themselves in a Catch-22. If they try to consider growth, they may be criticized for building facilities that are too grand for the moment. If they don't consider it, then there's the possibility needs quickly outgrow the resources, such as is the case with Cape Girardeau's police station, where for decades officers have shoehorned operations into a building that was too small almost from the beginning... Enjoy the Sounds of the Season (11/29/13) It's a Christmas tradition worth keeping. The Sounds of the Season benefiting the Southeast Cancer Center patients is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday at Cape Bible Chapel. The concert is 1 1/2 hours and will feature several local musicians and dancers. Tickets will be available for a $5 minimum donation. To learn more, call the SoutheastHEALTH Foundation at 986-6622... MyTeam Triumph provides positive experiences (11/29/13) There are many ways to give. General volunteering and monetary support are at the forefront. But there also are other inspirational ways to help people in this area. A story in Monday's paper by reporter Emily Priddy highlighted the local chapter of MyTeam Triumph, an organization that helps disabled individuals participate in an endurance race. This is done as runners, also called "angels," push the captain, a disabled person who otherwise could not be involved, in a special chair... Today we take time for a day of thanks (11/28/13) Editor's note: The following is the editorial board's annual Thanksgiving Day editorial. Come, ye thankful people, come, Raise the song of harvest-home; All is safely gathered in, Ere the winter storms begin.... Tis the season to enjoy Christmas parades, other festive events (11/27/13) Thanksgiving is upon us, and we hope you enjoy the day with family, friends and plenty of good food. We have much to be thankful for, including the many fun festivities in this area during the Christmas season. A favorite tradition is Christmas parades. Old Town Cape will hold its parade, themed "Christmas for Everyone," at 5 p.m. or dusk on Sunday. The parade is limited to 100 entries... Zonta awards highlight strong women in the community (11/26/13) This area is blessed with many strong leaders who are making a difference in their community. More than 400 people attended the annual Zonta Women of Achievement Celebration and Luncheon in Cape Girardeau Friday. Nominees for Woman of Achievement were:... Kennel enrichment program a positive for shelter's animals (11/25/13) If you haven't started Christmas shopping, you likely will in the coming weeks. It's a festive time of year. Decorations. Gift giving. Gatherings with family and friends. The holidays are a time of joy. While many of us will enjoy the coming weeks, it's important not to forget about animals -- including those in area shelters... Time to answer call for police station (11/24/13) We don't yet know how much it will cost. We don't know where it will be. How big it will be. But we do believe this: It's time for the city of Cape Girardeau to upgrade its police station. Actually, it's well past time. The crowding situation at the police station has been documented in the Southeast Missourian since at least 2002. Even then, officers had been dealing with tight quarters for years... Tigers show grit, make history with playoff run (11/22/13) The Central Tigers football team hasn't played in a state semifinal since 1978. Today the team, just by stepping on the field, will etch its place in the school's sports history when it takes on perennial power Webb City, the defending state champ and the team ranked No. 1 in the state... ABC Today designation a credit to this community (11/21/13) Cape Girardeau continues to be an innovation center for helping students succeed in school and life. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri recently announced that Jefferson Elementary School in Cape Girardeau has been named an ABC Today school, the inaugural school to receive the designation... Winter weather (11/20/13) It did not feel much like winter on Sunday when severe storms ripped through parts of the Midwest. However, weather can be finicky. One day its 70 degrees, the next we're looking at cold temperatures and a chance of snow. This is Winter Weather Awareness Day. The Missouri Department of Public Safety issued a news release last week encouraging Missourians to prepare for winter storms and the potential threats they can present... Toybox support (11/19/13) The Southeast Missourian and Jaycees have launched the annual campaign for Toybox and Christmas for the Elderly. In its 39th year, Toybox collects new toys for children ages 1 to 12 who otherwise receive few on Christmas. A story in Sunday's newspaper included a list of drop-off locations, and advertisements will run in the paper with locations. Donations may be made through Dec. 19... Typhoon heartbreak (11/18/13) The typhoon that hit the Philippines is one of the greatest natural disasters we've seen in a while. It brings back memories of the 2011 tsunami that hit Japan and killed 19,000 people; a year earlier more than 200,000 people were killed in an earthquake that hit Haiti... Olmsted problems (11/17/13) We're not arguing the importance of the Olmsted Dam, the control of the river system and the economic need to improve river transportation. Keeping the waterway open for barges is essential to large-scale commerce in the United States. But the project, located on the Ohio River near Olmstead, Ill., is an obvious example of why our citizenry is skeptical of its government... Exciting games (11/15/13) This is an exciting part of the season for some high school athletic programs. After months of practice and competition, individual athletes and teams are doing their best to advance to the next level in the MSHSAA playoffs. The Perryville soccer team defeated De Soto 6-0 in Tuesday's Class 2 sectional contest at the Perryville Soccer Complex. The Pirates move on to quarterfinals and will face St. Mary's Saturday... Upcoming events (11/14/13) The River Campus regularly hosts special concerts, other performances and special events this time of year. Here are a few to put on your radar:n Saturday: Photography Family Day. If you like photography or want to learn some tips, this is something to consider. In addition to a historic camera collection and other activities, Andy Warhol photographs will be on display. This free event is will be from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Rosemary Berkel and Harry L. Crisp II Museum... Education support (11/13/13) A new program being implemented in several Jackson schools and one in the Cape Girardeau Public School District intends to connect students with extra educational support if they need help with schoolwork. Southeast Missourian educator reporter Ruth Campbell recently reported on the program ICU. It's based on the book "The Power of ICU," a reference to a hospital intensive care unit... Mycoskie lecture (11/12/13) While the name Blake Mycoskie might not ring a bell for some people, the company he founded, TOMS shoes, likely does. Tonight students on campus and the community will have an opportunity to hear from Mycoskie when he delivers a lecture at the Show Me Center as part of the Southeast Missouri State University Speakers Series... In Flanders Fields (11/11/13) In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago... Food help (11/10/13) The photo on the front page of the newspaper wasn't worth a thousand words. It was worth a thousand stories. It wasn't what the photo showed. It was what was missing. Food was missing. Shelves, once filled with food, were baron just as the holiday season begins... State volleyball (11/08/13) It's a pleasure to welcome players, coaches, parents and other fans to Cape Girardeau for the start of the Missouri High School Athletic Association Volleyball Championships. When play begins today at the Show Me Center it will be the third consecutive year Cape Girardeau has hosted the tournament... LEGO competition (11/07/13) On Saturday students participating in the FIRST LEGO League robotics competition will be using a favorite childhood toy for a learning experience. Held at the University Center on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University, up to 140 students from 9 to 14 years old could participate in the competition, which encourages participants to design LEGO-based robots to address issues that may arise from a natural disaster... Cleaning up Cape (11/06/13) The city of Cape Girardeau is taking a step forward in its efforts to address litter and help with beautification efforts around town. Public works director Tim Gramling announced recently that Operation Clean Sweep will help with maintenance issues and clean up areas. The three-pronged program includes the following:... A winning year (11/05/13) The St. Louis Cardinals had a disappointing end to an otherwise wonderful season when the team lost to the Boston Red Sox in Game 6 of the World Series on Wednesday night. The Redbirds offense had its struggles during the Fall Classic while the bearded-Sox capitalized to win a World Series championship for the third time since 2004... Local elections (11/04/13) Several candidates already have expressed interest in running for Cape Girardeau city offices. So far, four are seeking the 50 signatures needed to become a candidate in Cape Girardeau's Ward 2. Two have expressed interest in running for mayor. Running for local office is a noble commitment. ... Domestic violence (11/03/13) Domestic violence is a subject that has been in the spotlight recently. The VintageNOW fashion show in Cape Girardeau, a very successful and popular event, helped raise money for the Safe House for Women -- a vital outlet for women trying to escape abusive situations... SEMO basketball (11/01/13) The Southeast Missouri State Redhawks men's basketball team received good news at the Ohio Valley Conference's annual media day. The team was the preseason pick tied for first in the West Division. The women's team was ranked fifth, which is a significant improvement for the squad that ranked last in the 2012 preseason poll... Trick-or-treat safety (10/31/13) Depending on weather conditions this evening, there could be a number of children in costume knocking on doors. While for many the night is about collecting candy, it's important to know a few basic safety tips before heading out the door. Southeast Missourian reporter Emily Priddy wrote a front-page story for Wednesday's edition that included several tips from local law enforcement. These include:... MissionFest (10/30/13) Many people are compelled to help others and share God's love. It's part of their faith and outreach, and the efforts make a tremendous difference. On Sunday more than 50 exhibitors will gather at the Osage Centre in Cape Girardeau to share with others information about various ministries and how to get involved. The event is called MissionFest 2013 and is in its second year. The outreach will take place from 2 to 5 p.m., with music by Mike Dumey & Friends at 2 p.m... A guiding hand (10/29/13) It's a blessing to see. From the changing colors of leaves in the fall, to the joy of watching children have fun, along with so many other things, the joy we receive from the sense of sight is tremendous. One of the activities this time of year many of us enjoy is watching local high school bands perform. ... Teacher awards (10/28/13) The Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce recently honored five educators during an educator appreciation reception:n Heather Fisher, a kindergarten teacher at Blanchard Elementary School Teachers are under the microscope today as much as they have ever been, and they face challenges unique to this generation. ... Homecoming honors (10/27/13) In addition to the festivities that accompany Homecoming at Southeast Missouri State University, the university honored several individuals who have made lasting contributions to the university and the community. Today, we'd like to highlight those individuals... Walking a dog (10/25/13) This month some of the dogs at the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri are having a chance to get a little extra attention outside, and, in the process, perhaps help some people start a healthy habit. Walk a Hound, Lose a Pound is a program sponsored by the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center and the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri. It encourages people to walk an animal from the shelter near the Osage Centre in Cape Girardeau... Homecoming (10/24/13) Southeast Missouri State University will welcome thousands of graduates back to campus this weekend to celebrate tradition and the future of the university. Homecoming is a major undertaking. Activities started earlier in the week and kick into high gear tonight when Academic Hall is reopened with a 5:30 p.m. ... World Series (10/23/13) It was a journey that started in February with pitchers and catchers in spring training. Eight months later, the St. Louis Cardinals find themselves playing the Boston Red Sox in the World Series. The Cardinals are making their second World Series appearance in three years and fourth in the past decade. Playing baseball in October has become the norm, not the exception. Cardinal fans have responded and regularly fill Busch Stadium... Good choices (10/22/13) Southeast Missourian reporter Emily Priddy recently looked at the state's methamphetamine numbers. In 2012, there were 11,210 clandestine methamphetamine lab incidents across the country. More than 16 percent of the incidents were in Missouri. In the story, a former meth addict talked about his encounter with the drug and how it wrecked his life. Thankfully, he's now sober... VintageNOW show (10/21/13) A fashion event that has taken Cape Girardeau by storm in recent years is scheduled for Tuesday evening at The Venue. The fourth annual VintageNOW event, which seems to become more popular every year, has raised more than $41,000 for the Safe House for Women... ‘Gone Girl' (10/20/13) We didn't know what to expect when Hollywood came to town. Sure, we got a glimpse several years ago when the makers of "Killshot" (which never made it to theaters) took over Main Street. But we were told from the start this outfit would be different, not so open to the masses. We were told they wanted to do things a bit more discreetly. Our newspaper, despite many attempts, couldn't even get confirmation of "Gone Girl" filming here even as a casting call was announced... Special Olympics (10/18/13) It's been fun these last four years to see 1,000-plus Special Olympics athletes enjoy the festivities for the State Fall Games in Cape Girardeau. The recent games, which were to be played Oct. 11 through 13, had several rain outs. While organizers and the city staff hoped to get the fields ready, it wasn't feasible. Regardless, the athletes, many traveling several hours to Cape Girardeau for the weekend, had an enjoyable time... Food stamps (10/17/13) In the coming months Missouri could join Kansas in tightening standards for food-stamp benefits eligibility. An Associated Press story that appeared in the Oct. 9 Southeast Missourian said the state Department of Social Services proposed the eligibility change... Fall colors (10/16/13) Major League Baseball's World Series is referred to as the Fall Classic, and it would be wonderful to see the Cardinals back in the series. But there's something else this time of year that is classic -- classically beautiful. Leaves are turning brilliant colors, and combined with gorgeous sunshine and pleasant temperatures now is the time to enjoy some time outside... Students with merit (10/15/13) Five local students have earned the prestigious honor of being named semifinalists for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Every year the Southeast Missourian features area students who reach this distinction. About 1.5 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools entered the 2014 National Merit Scholarship Program. Less than 1 percent were selected as semifinalists... Nuisance process (10/14/13) The Cape Girardeau City Council has made many tough, even unpopular decisions in recent years. Some people may not care for the council's decisions, but its processes for making those choices continue to be solid. The way the city has gone about changing its nuisance ordinances is the latest example... Thanking pastors (10/13/13) Faith is vital to many people in Cape Girardeau and throughout the country. Faith is by definition a private decision, yet it's also a nucleus for fellowship with others. A church should be a place where the faithful can share their beliefs and build personal relationships with others. A primary, and important, role for pastors is to help foster that fellowship... Special Olympics (10/11/13) It's been a wonderful opportunity for Cape Girardeau to host the Special Olympics Missouri State fall Games the past three years. Beginning tonight, the city will host the games for the fourth, and final, time. This weekend is important for the many athletes, parents and coaches. About 1,100 athletes will be in town to compete. While there will be spirited contests, this is about the athletes having fun and making memories... Safe Ride program (10/10/13) There's no excuse for driving while under the influence of alcohol. At its core, this is about personal responsibility and making good decisions. But as a society, particularly with the number of young people attending Southeast Missouri State University, it's important to make sure safe transit is available for those who have consumed excessive amounts of alcohol... Corporate Games (10/09/13) For nearly two weeks in September, co-workers at several area businesses teamed up to compete in the 2013 Corporate Games. With more than 20 contests, the competitive (and not-so-competitive) folks in this area battled it out. There was good-natured competition, but this was about connecting with others in the area, having fun and learning something about teamwork... Message of hope (10/08/13) One of the many ministries in this area is Celebrate Recovery, a faith-based program that helps those with "hurts, habits and hang-ups." Last month, about 100 people, many involved in this ministry, heard from former professional baseball player Darryl Strawberry, an arch-nemisis of the Cardinals in the 1980s as a New York Met and a former National League rookie of the year... CASA volunteers (10/07/13) Have you ever stopped to think about children who are in foster care, who have parents in prison or unable to care for them? How must these children feel to oftentimes have no one in their corner? How must they feel to get hauled into court to face situations that are not of their doing? Who represents them when their parents have infused violence or crime into their lives?... La Croix birthday (10/06/13) It began in a movie theater in the mall. Now, La Croix Church is one of the largest churches in the Cape Girardeau area. The church has a membership of 1,738 and an average weekly attendance of about 2,200. Today, in the second installment of its "One Event, Two Days," the church will celebrate its 25th birthday. Instead of having three services for the congregation, the church will have one at the Show Me Center on Sunday evening... Homeless Connect (10/04/13) An event that helped 356 homeless and low-income individuals last year, including more than 200 families, returns to the Osage Centre in Cape Girardeau today. Project Homeless Connect will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., assisting those with financial struggles to connect with a range of services. ... Cardinals shine (10/03/13) St. Louis Cardinals fans are used to winning and watching their favorite baseball team compete in October, but there's a renewed excitement this time of year when the boys of summer compete in the playoffs. The Redbirds finished the regular season with a National League-leading 97-65 record, which tied the Red Sox for the best record in Major League Baseball... Constitution Day (10/02/13) Alma Schrader Elementary School students and staff first participated in Constitution Day at the anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001. Now in its 12th year, school officials say students look forward to the uplifting festivities. Last month, the assembly of students heard from special speakers and local officials and joined in song to celebrate Constitution Day. ... Playland open (10/01/13) Friday afternoon was special for Jeff and Andrea Cunningham, the Cape Girardeau couple who founded Melaina's Magical Playland. The all-accessible playground at Cape County Park North, inspired by their daughter Melaina who died from a neuromuscular disease, had its official opening with swarms of children enjoying the new facility... Fields of Faith (09/30/13) When it comes to sports, we understand the dedication and sacrifices that are necessary to be competitive. It's much the same way in a walk of faith. Being committed to God takes dedication and sacrifice, too. The Fellowship of Christian Athletes organization attempts to blend Christian values into the athletic arena... Breast cancer (09/29/13) By now, you have probably seen the pink going up all around Cape Girardeau. Tuesday, being the first day of October, officially marks breast cancer awareness month. Many individuals and businesses will find their own ways to display their pink. But what does it really mean, all of this pink? Is this just a marketing ploy?... Family Weekend (09/27/13) A few weeks into the fall semester, Southeast Missouri State University will hold its annual Family Weekend over the next few days. This is a time for students to reconnect with their families and enjoy some fun festivities. Southeast has a full lineup of events to consider. Here are a few:... Entrepreneurship (09/26/13) Classroom learning and the foundational knowledge associated with it are important. However, all of us can benefit from hearing from other successful people. This is a component to the festivities this week at Southeast Missouri State University for Global Entrepreneurship Week... Child hunger (09/25/13) Thousands of people in this area receive food assistance. According to the United Way of Southeast Missourian, 22.8 percent of children live below the poverty level. Many children attending area schools are eligible for free or reduced lunches. Hunger is a real issue, and not knowing if you can provide the nutritional support for your children is a worry. ... Downtown golf (09/24/13) Get your golf club ready for the First-Ever Eighth Annual Louis J. Lorimier Memorial World-Famous Downtown Golf Tournament. This isn't your typical round on the greens, but Sunday afternoon downtown Cape Girardeau will turn into a course with golfers hitting BirdieBalls and raising money for the Red House Interpretive Center... New roundabout (09/23/13) Cape Girardeau recently unveiled a new roundabout, its third and largest in the city. It's the first multiple-lane roundabout, leaving newcomers' heads spinning as they try to navigate the circle. By now perhaps you've driven the area on Lexington, not far from Kingshighway. Roundabouts are designed to keep traffic moving, rather than putting up stoplights. It seems to be doing its job thus far... School growth (09/22/13) Enrollment at private schools in the area appears healthy. In a study of numbers released by local private schools, overall enrollment in private schools is on the rise, which is impressive, particularly in light of the economic climate the last five years... Inspiring story (09/20/13) A 2005 motorcycle accident that severed his spinal cord hasn't kept Zach Young from enjoying and participating in sports. Young, 30, participated in the wheelchair division of the City of Roses Half Marathon/5K race on Sunday -- one of many events he's competed in since the traumatic accident. A story about him appeared in Monday's Southeast Missourian... Texting can wait (09/19/13) Distracted driving is a problem. There's the radio and phone conversations, but today's technology has led to more people texting while driving. This is scary. Text messaging should not take precedence over driving. Quite simply: It can wait. With this in mind, AT&T and the Missouri Press Association have partnered to promote the It Can Wait contest for high school students... Fair weekend (09/18/13) Fair season continues later this week with the East Perry Community Fair set for Friday and Saturday in Altenburg, Mo. Though a small town, the fair is expected to draw up to 30,000 people. There's no admission fee or cost to park. There are several events scheduled, including a parade at 1:30 p.m. ... Great fair (09/18/13) Thousands of people attended an entertaining SEMO District Fair last week. With no rain over the course of the week, fairgoers enjoyed a full slate of entertainment, rides, animals and food at the oldest fair in the state. It's a major undertaking to hold this fair in Cape Girardeau. We appreciate the work of the fair board, volunteers, city, sponsors and all those who participated... SEMO at Busch (09/17/13) It's been a tough start to the season for the Southeast Missouri State University football team. The Redhawks are coming off a 45-7 loss in their season opener at Southeastern Louisiana and a 31-13 loss at Ole Miss. After a bye week, the team is set to hold its first "home game" on Saturday -- though the contest won't be played at Houck Stadium... CTC success (09/16/13) A primary goal of the Career and Technology Center is to train individuals for the workforce. A recent story in the Southeast Missourian expressed that the CTC boasted a nearly 90 percent job placement rate last year. When considering other education outcomes -- be it graduation rates or MAP scores -- locally and nationally, this statistic from the CTC is overwhelmingly positive... ‘Gone Girl' welcome (09/15/13) By all accounts, the people involved with the filming of the motion picture "Gone Girl" have been highly professional, nice and courteous -- maybe not what some in the Midwest might expect from Hollywood. Cape Girardeau is abuzz with expectations about the movie. ... Park changes (09/13/13) Work recently began on two Cape Girardeau parks named after civic leaders. Murtaugh Park and the Melvin Gateley Rose Garden will be combined, bringing more visibility to each. Murtaugh Park is located near the Red House Interpretive Center. It will have more space available with Aquamsi Street filled in. With additional green space available, the city is moving the Gately Rose Garden, currently located behind City Hall, to this location... Alzheimer's Walk (09/12/13) It's devastating to watch someone slowly drift away, forgetting faces, names and important dates, among other things. For the families and friends of an estimated 5.2 million Americans living with Alzheimer's disease, it's heartbreaking. The disease steals a person's memory and in some cases even changes their disposition... Sept. 11, 2001 (09/11/13) Twelve years ago our nation felt the horror of terrorism. People who wished us harm took action on their hatred, hijacking planes and crashing into the twin towers in New York and the Pentagon in Virginia. A fourth plane went down in rural Pennsylvania after passengers got word of the attack and bravely took over the flight -- actions that saved many more lives... SEMO MBA (09/10/13) The Southeast Missouri State University Master's of Business Administration program recently received an impressive designation as one of the "Top 30 Online MBA Programs" in the country. This was among 8,000 MBA programs. SEMO was ranked No. 26 on the list. According to the university's news release, this ranking considered several factors, including academic excellence, student engagement, selectivity and strength of faculty... Young inspiration (09/09/13) How many 10-year-olds do you know who spend time and energy on a cause they believe in? How many 10-year-olds do you know who have created their own business enterprise to support said cause? Indeed, Karsyn Connell seems to be a wonderfully unusual kid... Tax cuts (09/08/13) House Bill No. 253 Few things get people riled up like taxes -- specifically, about paying too much. With an economy that remains sluggish, it's understandable why people watch their pocketbooks. Many states, including Missouri's neighbors Kansas and Oklahoma, are seeing changes to their tax codes. But here, Gov. Jay Nixon has vetoed legislation that would implement marginal tax cuts for businesses and individuals. The Missouri Legislature should override his veto of House Bill 253... Firearm bill (09/08/13) The following editorials represent our views on two controversial measures before Missouri lawmakers during a veto override session, which begins Sept. 11. House Bill No. 436 This bill is widely considered unconstitutional even by conservatives who say they hold the U.S. ... Hutson auction (09/06/13) The 26th annual Charles L. Hutson Auction benefiting Old Town Cape will be held Saturday at the Isle Casino Cape Girardeau events center. Hutson, who died in 2003, was a local visionary, and his family continues to support the downtown area and this community. We appreciate the work of his wife, Judi, and sons, Chris and Dave, who manage the family furniture store in Cape Girardeau's downtown... SEMO Fair (09/05/13) The sweet smells of cotton candy, funnel cakes and other treats will soon fill Arena Park in Cape Girardeau. Rides will be put together, and livestock owners will bring their animals to the fair grounds soon. Yes, the SEMO District Fair is set to return Saturday... Gymnasts GPA (09/04/13) There's no shortage of cheering at sporting events. When our favorite athlete or team excels, we celebrate -- and with good reason. It's just as important, however, to celebrate the good things athletes do off the playing field. The Southeast Missouri State women's gymnastics team has reason to be excited. ... Fun philanthropy (09/03/13) The Cure for Cape Cancer Gala held Aug. 24 was a big success. If you made it out to Plaza by Ray's for the 26th annual formal affair, you were treated to wonderful food, music and overall fun. Kelli Schenimann, community manager of development for the American Cancer Society Eastern Missouri Region, said Thursday about $157,000 was raised from the gala, although money still is coming in. Donations made through the end of the year will be allocated to the gala's fundraising total... Labor Day (09/01/13) Editor's note: The following is our annual Labor Day editorial. When it comes to the reasons for Monday's Labor Day holiday, the U.S. Department of Labor offers a good historical review. The first Labor Day celebration was in New York City in 1882 and organized by the Central Labor Union. ... Weekend safety (08/30/13) The unofficial end to summer comes this weekend with the Labor Day holiday. For many the next few days present an opportunity for one more taste of summer. If your plans revolve around boating, the Army Corps of Engineers encourages people to be cautious, use life jackets and monitor their children. They note that open-water swimming is different from pool swimming, and alcohol has played a role in several previous drownings... UW kickoff (08/29/13) Today the United Way of Southeast Missouri will kick off its annual fundraising appeal, with the organization and many area partners set to unveil the 2013 campaign goal. The theme is local superheroes. Having watched the promotional video, we feel the United Way captured what giving means to many in this community. ... King's legacy (08/28/13) Today marks a significant anniversary for civil rights. Fifty years ago Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech at the Lincoln Memorial. King's speech, the seminal remarks from the March on Washington, was a remarkable stance of courage. His faith, eloquence and determination are to be honored... Warning sirens (08/27/13) It's beneficial for communities in this area to have emergency warning sirens. Severe weather comes quickly, and alerts to those in the path of a storm or other emergency may save lives. Storms in recent years have produced significant destruction. It's heart-wrenching to see homes destroyed and people's photos and other items in disarray... Housing upswing (08/26/13) Economists warned several years ago that an economic recovery would come with ebbs and flows; the arrow would not always ascend in a positive direction after the crash in 2008. Those forecasts have held true, particularly with unemployment. It's two steps forward and one back... The '93 flood (08/25/13) Twenty years ago this summer, Southeast Missouri endured the biggest natural disaster in a generation. The Great Flood of 1993 was a monster that wouldn't go away. The river, relentless and heavy, remained above flood stage virtually all summer. On Aug. 8, 1993, it reached a peak of 48.49 feet, 16 feet above the 32-foot flood stage. It remained above flood stage for 126 consecutive days. The flood affected about 300 people and more than 100 buildings in Cape Girardeau... Cape BBQ Fest (08/23/13) Few parties would be better without a griller. Someone who has mastered the art of searing meat and balancing it with a savory rub. This weekend there will be many at Arena Park in Cape Girardeau hoping to come away with the top prize at the Cape BBQ Fest... Cure for Cancer gala (08/22/13) One of the most formal affairs in Cape Girardeau is Saturday's 26th annual Cure for Cape Cancer Gala benefiting the American Cancer Society. With so many connected to this disease personally or through a family member or friend, the gala has become a successful affair combining style with a good cause. Cape Girardeau also is a hub for medical care, with cancer specialists associated with both hospitals treating patients from the area... Welcome back (08/21/13) Many Southeast Missouri State University students are returning to town this week. The fall semester kicks off Monday. Freshmen will begin moving in Thursday. According to the university's news bureau, there are about 1,200 first-year students joining the university... Generous children (08/20/13) There's nothing wrong with children receiving birthday gifts. But what if, instead of receiving, they chose to give? Instead of playing with new things, they shared with others in need? We've heard stories of young people who do this, and the Southeast Missourian has highlighted several, including the one in the Aug. 11 Good Times about Phoenix and Portia Schmidt... Fall sports (08/19/13) Somehow another summer has slipped away, and we already have embarked on another school year. This means many things for our schools, not the least of which is the start of fall sports season. Aside from politics, nothing seems to stir the emotions quite like sports, especially when our young athletes are representing all high schools and communities... Bikes on Broadway (08/18/13) Some cyclists are upset about new signs that have been erected on Broadway that prohibit riding bicycles on the sidewalks. Actually, the signs don't prohibit the riding; the ordinances do. And that's the point the city is trying to make. Bicycles are not allowed on the sidewalks in the city, and haven't been for a long time... Scott County's support of Porter (08/16/13) There will be a lot of excitement this evening when Scott County Central dedicates the gym floor at Ronnie Cookson Gymnasium to recently drafted NBA player Otto Porter. A Scott County Central graduate, Porter went on to have a successful two-year career at Georgetown University. ... Tunes returns (08/15/13) We hope you're ready to hear some music outdoors. Cape Girardeau's Tunes at Twilight returns for its fall season Friday with Jack Williams performing. For summer in Southeast Missouri, the weather has been unseasonably cool. Heading out the door in the morning, there's a crispness that feels more like fall -- a stark contrast to the heat and humidity we're accustomed to in August. We hope this continues Friday for the start of the fall music season... Floodway meeting (08/14/13) The St. Johns Bayou and New Madrid Floodway Project may have some traction. Later this month the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will hold meetings in East Prairie, Mo., and Cairo, Ill., to receive public input on the project. An initial environmental-impact statement has been crafted, and the opportunity for public input lasts 45 days from July 26... Puppy love (08/13/13) We hope you read the story in the Aug. 4 Southeast Missourian about Mac the 2-year-old pit bull and his owner Rochelle Steffen. Mac had a rough start to life. Steffen, a volunteer at the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri, bought him from a seller when he was only 3 months old. ... Cell tower (08/12/13) Municipal governing bodies often find themselves in the middle of difficult situations. A decision to help one entity may harm others. A zoning change may help bring jobs here, but hurt property values there. Rarely are city councils given credit and thanks for making difficult decisions. Our Speak Out commentary and online chatter reflect a tone that councils always seem to make the wrong call... School traffic (08/11/13) Many area students will head back to school this week, which means more traffic in the morning and early afternoon. As you commute, please pay special attention to children boarding school busses and other vehicles. This vigilance applies to older students as well. ... Limbaugh's 25th (08/09/13) You won't find many people ambivalent about Rush Limbaugh. The conservative talk radio show host has a strong following of listeners who tune in for three hours Monday through Friday to hear the Cape Girardeau native address the issues of the day with his straightforward and unabashed opinion... Electric conversion (08/08/13) Technology continues to provide incredible opportunities. This week it means a focus on electric vehicles. Now in its third year, the Electric Vehicle Conversation Convention returned to Cape Girardeau on Tuesday. It continues though Sunday. About 150 people were expected to be in town to learn about the technology championed by Cape Girardeau resident Jack Rickard... Cape partnership (08/07/13) Area students soon will be back in school for the fall semester, including those attending classes at the Cape Girardeau Partnership for Higher Education. Recently the Southeast Missourian reported on the future of the partnership, a coordinated effort between Southeast Missouri State University, Mineral Area College and Three Rivers College... Capahas' season (08/06/13) It's fun to watch local baseball games during the summer months, including the Plaza Tire Capahas. With a history of successful campaigns, this year's squad recently wrapped up its season at the National Baseball Congress World Series. After an impressive regular season in which the team compiled a 28-3 record, the Capahas went 4-2 at the tournament in Wichita, Kan... Election Day (08/06/13) It's not a busy Election Day for most of our Southeast Missouri coverage area, but voters in a couple areas will go to the polls to decide on two issues. Voters in the Altenburg School District will choose whether to approve a property-tax increase. Under the measure, the tax levy would increase from 3.6 cents to 4.3 cents per $100 of assessed property value. The $1.9 million raised by the increase would go toward a new building for kindergarten through eighth grade... Old Town Cape (08/05/13) Old Town Cape took home three state-level awards from the Missouri Main Street Conference in Kansas City, Mo., last week. The Cape Riverfront Market was named the 2013 Top Special Event by the Missouri Main Street Organization, and the Broadway Corridor Project won the Missouri Main Street's Streetscape and Public Improvements award... Sikeston rodeo (08/04/13) The Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo, for those who aren't familiar, is a pretty big deal. This year's event, which begins Wednesday, is the 61st edition. In Sikeston, that means a weeklong celebration that includes several family-friendly activities... Top athletes (08/02/13) This week the newspaper wrapped up its All-Southeast Missourian teams for the 2012-2013 school year. Over the year we recognized 114 athletes representing 19 schools. There were three boys teams, four girls teams and two combined teams. It's always impressive reading about the athletes. ... Outdoors and faith (08/01/13) What a fantastic summer we've had. The weather lately has been unseasonably cool -- a refreshing surprise considering past years of July heat and humidity. We hope you've enjoyed some outdoor activities during this cool period. There's certainly been no shortage of fun things to do... Sales-tax holiday (07/31/13) Shoppers looking for good deals on back-to-school items will be out this weekend for Missouri's sales-tax holiday. Beginning Friday and continuing through Sunday, many items will be exempt from city, county and state sales taxes. Purchases include clothing of no more than $100, school supplies of $50 or less and personal computers of no more than $3,500. For a full list of eligible items, check out the sidebar from Monday's paper online at semissourian.com/story/1989774.html... Music events (07/30/13) It looks to be an exciting season of performances at the Southeast Missouri State University River Campus. The 2013-2014 schedule of performances was announced earlier this summer. The list includes a strong mix of student-based performances and touring series productions... Drugs and sports (07/29/13) Yet another high-profile Major League Baseball player was exposed last week as a user of performance-enhancing drugs. Ryan Braun, the former National League MVP and star with the Milwaukee Brewers, was issued a 65-game suspension without pay after an investigation into his dealings with Biogenesis, a clinic exposed to be dealing drugs to professional athletes under the table... Dr. Hamblin (07/28/13) After 48 years (and two months), Dr. Robert Hamblin recently retired from his post as English professor at Southeast Missouri State University. He had a lot of influence over students during that time, a record at Southeast Missouri State (by two months). But his experience was felt beyond the classroom... Weekend events (07/26/13) It's time to enjoy another weekend, and there are plenty of local options worth considering. Here are a few:n Homecomers continues through Saturday. Though rain dampened opening night, the cooler temperatures this week have been a blessing. Take some time to enjoy the festivities in Jackson... Losing weight (07/25/13) We hope you read the feature on Tuesday's Health page about former Jackson resident Bill Moore and his inspirational weight loss story. Moore worked as a traveling salesman. The nights in hotels and food-on-the-go lifestyle left him at more than 300 pounds. To make matters worse, he was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis... Speaker Series (07/24/13) There's still time before Southeast Missouri State University students head back to campus, but the university already is gearing up for the school year with last month's Speaker Series announcement. Many high-profile speakers have been on campus in recent years to talk about everything from politics and policy, to health and fitness, and sports and championship teams... Homecomers (07/23/13) Jackson will be the scene for food, fun and fellowship this week as the city hosts its annual Homecomers event. This is the 105th Homecomers, and if past years are any indication this should be fun festival atmosphere. There will be musical entertainment, carnival rides, food and other activities for the whole family to enjoy... I-66 corridor (07/23/13) The effort to construct a new route between Cape Girardeau and Paducah, Ky., takes another step forward Wednesday. A meeting is being held from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Shawnee Community College gymnasium in Ullin, Ill., as part of a study looking at potential routes that would connect the two cities... Leadership summit (07/22/13) Regardless of title or job responsibilities, at some level each of us is a leader. Leadership goes beyond CEOs and government officials. If you're a parent, you are a leader. If you serve at church, you're a leader. If you belong to a community organization, you're a leader. You get the point... Recruiting jobs (07/21/13) It's been a tough couple of weeks for jobs in Cape Girardeau. Integrity Solution Services, formerly known as National Asset Recovery Services, announced it will close its Cape Girardeau office. The decision, the result of losing its only client, means 400 people will lose their jobs unless another client is secured... Tax decision (07/19/13) The Cape Girardeau City Council on Monday decided to postpone a decision whether to place the hotel/motel and restaurant tax before voters in the November election. Council members have expressed different opinions on what project the restaurant tax should fund. It has been used most recently to help pay for the Southeast Missouri State University River Campus. However, with bonds to be paid off soon, the tax will sunset... Perryville events (07/18/13) It's not too early too start planning for the weekend, and on Saturday the Perry Park Center and city park in Perryville, Mo., will be bustling with fun things to do. Play Day at the Park will begin at 10 a.m. at the Perryville City Park. There will be vendors, games and other carnival-type activities. ... Tdap vaccine (07/17/13) It's probably not something you think much about, but according to local health professionals staying up to date on the Tdap vaccination is potentially lifesaving. Tdap stands for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis. A story that appeared in Tuesday's paper noted that the booster is due every 10 years. However, one local health professional said that pertussis was added in recent years and those who have had a tetanus shot within the past 10 years should still receive the booster... Hoops for Life (07/16/13) Get ready to laugh this weekend. Comedian Chonda Pierce will be in town Friday night as part of the Hoops for Life fundraiser, a two-day event that raises money to fight brain cancer. Hoops for Life was started in memory of Sahara "Hoops" Aldridge, who died in 2007 at the age of 13 from a malignant brain tumor. ... Blood emergency (07/15/13) The American Red Cross last week issued an emergency request for platelet and blood donations. Fewer donations than expected were received in June and the first week of July. Donations through the Red Cross were down approximately 10 percent in June, resulting in about 50,000 fewer donations than expected nationwide... Great Race award (07/14/13) Cape Girardeau is on quite a roll when it comes to tourism. In the last few weeks alone, we've had the Great Race, an air show and a fireworks show. Last week it was announced Cape Girardeau had won the 2013 Hemmings Motor News Great Race's Best Overnight Stop City award... Habitat's 50th (07/12/13) Building affordable homes for low-income people has been the mission of Habitat for Humanity International since 1976. The Cape Area Habitat for Humanity has continued that effort over the past 27 years, and the local affiliate is working on its 50th house in the area... Park & Rec Day (07/11/13) If you're looking for fun activities your children can enjoy this week, make sure to check out Park & Rec Day on Friday at the Osage Centre. There will be obstacle courses, games, arts and crafts, animals and more. The event will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a surprise guest making an appearance at 1 p.m... Read to Succeed (07/10/13) Editor's note: The following editorial has been edited to clarify the number of students who participated in the program. The 2012-2013 school year was another successful one for students participating in the United Way's Read to Succeed program. The program expanded to all five public elementary schools in Cape Girardeau and reached more than 200 kindergarten and first-grade students. ... Red Cross training (07/09/13) We've seen several disasters in recent years. Storms in Joplin, Mo., and Moore, Okla., come to mind when thinking of devastation caused by natural disasters. It's certainly important to know what to do when these events strike. Taking shelter during a storm is a given. What about after the storm? How do communities rally and coordinate efforts to help those affected? These are questions the Red Cross will help answer this week as part of its second annual American Red Cross Academy... Grief and giving (07/08/13) Dealing with the emotional aftermath from the death of a child or teenager is something that cannot be understood until it faces someone personally. Of course, those who have never had to deal with that on a personal level consider themselves fortunate and pray it never happens. When it does happen, survivors often try to find ways to express their grief by doing something for a good cause in memory of their loved one... Arizona firefighters (07/07/13) The nation is mourning the deaths of 19 firefighters, victims of a raging wildfire in Arizona. They were firefighters for the city of Prescott, members of an elite unit dubbed Granite Mountain Hot Shots who had been called into action to support a regional effort to battle the blaze, which spanned more than 8,000 acres. Early reports indicated a dramatic wind shift surprised the firemen and led to the fatal situation... People's Choice Awards (07/05/13) Voting continues for the Southeast Missourian People's Choice Awards 2013. The annual contest is a good opportunity for readers to vote for their favorite business -- a distinction many establishments take seriously. For proof, just look at the number of storefront windows that proudly display their blue ribbon stickers from past years... Kenneth Bender (07/03/13) On Thursday we will celebrate Independence Day, the day 56 men signed a declaration establishing America's independence from Great Britain. We salute the sacrifice and bravery of these men and celebrate the genius of our country's founders. The Fourth of July is more than an anniversary of a document-signing. ... Great events (07/02/13) What a few days it was last week. First the Great Race, then the air show. For Cape Girardeau, this was a banner week that showcased the area. Chuck Martin, executive director of the Cape Girardeau Convention and Visitors Bureau, on Monday told us more than 5,000 people attended the Great Race. He said the turnout exceeded expectations... The new chief (07/01/13) Wes Blair, a 16-year law enforcement veteran who is interim chief at Lancaster, Texas, near Dallas, was hired last week as Cape Girardeau's new police chief. Blair was found to replace Carl Kinnison, who left last August to serve as director of the Law Enforcement Academy at Southeast Missouri State University... Telehealth (06/30/13) Thanks to a bill proposed by State Rep. Kathy Swan of Cape Girardeau, medical personnel across Missouri will have more ways to deal with an expected influx of patients due to the Affordable Health Care Act. Language from Swan's House Bill 936 was added during the legislative session ended May 17 in the Senate as an amendment to House Bill 315, recently signed into law by Gov. Jay Nixon... American spirit (06/28/13) Over the next week there will be family gatherings, patriotic services and plenty of outdoor activities. All this plus fireworks. But the Fourth of July is more than a day off work. It's a time to celebrate our country -- freedom and all things that make America the land of the free and home of the brave... New exhibit (06/27/13) The Discovery Playhouse continues to grow. The children's museum in downtown Cape Girardeau recently added a new exhibit that already has drawn excitement from local children. The Air-Maze-ing exhibit, which features tunnels of air currents that move items such as scarfs and small balls, is the latest addition. The maze occupies about 225 square feet of wall in addition to ceiling space and is a nice addition -- one made possible thanks to a generous community... Air festival (06/26/13) First by land, then by air. That is the story in Cape Girardeau this week. The Great Race made its way to Cape Girardeau on Tuesday. Many vintage cars proceeded along a route from North Kingshighway to Broadway, with several Pit Stop Parties and welcome parties paving the way... Run for God (06/25/13) You have to be tough to run -- and not just physically. It's an endurance sport that demands physical preparation and inner strength. Over the last few months, about 150 individuals through four classes have participated in a training program called Run for God. The class, which met for 12 weeks, focuses on the spiritual and athletic components of running, showing the parallels between faith and the endurance sport of running... Making lemonade (06/24/13) From time to time we hear about generosity from children that makes our hearts melt. Upon hearing about an 8-month-old baby who had a rare form of cancer in the skin -- and taking a cue from her generous mother, who had donated some items to the baby's family -- Savannah Smith decided to raise money via a lemonade stand to help the family... Great Race (06/23/13) Downtown Cape Girardeau will be buzzing on Tuesday as the participants in the Great Race will roll through. "The Great Race is billed as the premiere vintage car road rally in the world," said Danny Essner, who as a member of the River City Rodders helped bring the race to Cape Girardeau. "In its 30-year history, the Great Race has never passed through Cape -- and may never again. This might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Great Race without leaving home."... Bikers on the Square (06/21/13) The Perryville square will be closed Saturday as thousands of people meet for the first Bikers on the Square charity event. Bikers on the Square kicks off at 9:30 a.m. in downtown Perryville and could draw up to 2,000 motorcycles, and even more people, with bikers from several states and Canada expected to attend. A parade of motorcycles at 11 a.m. will be led by Vietnam veterans, who are also serving as grand marshals of the parade... Capahas (06/20/13) There was plenty of laughing and good-natured ribbing Sunday as former Plaza Tire Capahas players participated in a reunion game at Capaha Field. About 30 former players made it to the ballpark, and several still were in good shape and played well. The two teams -- white vs. blue -- were managed by Rick Wieser and Darrick Smith. Umpiring the game was longtime team manager Jess Bolen... Heat safety (06/19/13) We've had a few warm days this month, but if this year is like previous ones locally, we are likely in store for plenty of hot and humid days yet this summer. Last week the heat index surpassed 100 degrees in Cape Girardeau. Along with the humidity, temperatures were in the low- to mid-90s. This type of weather is wonderful if you're staying cool in the pool. But for those working outdoors or without air-conditioning, it can be dangerous... Dan Cotner (06/18/13) Dr. Dan Cotner and his trombone have been a fixture at the Capaha Park bandshell for longer than most of us have been alive. Last week, Cotner was recognized at the Cape Girardeau Municipal Band concert for his record achievement -- 74 years of service to the band... Summer camps (06/17/13) No more morning school bus. Pencils, paper and calculators get a reprieve. Yes, children are celebrating the start of summer vacation. With a break from the classroom, students can now enjoy a couple months of summer fun. While family vacations, trips to the pool and Little League competition will fill some time, the youngsters have plenty of other options... Here's to you, Dad (06/16/13) The following is our annual tribute to fathers. If you are a father and holding this newspaper in your hand, you're probably one of the good guys. Well-informed, educated and responsible. You probably have changed diapers. Coached ballgames. Taken your child or children to church. ... Relay for Life (06/14/13) Relay for Life, a national campaign that raises money for research, treatment and recovery for cancer patients, will hold its annual walk tonight in Arena Park. Festivities kick off at 5:50 p.m., with a survivor dinner set for 6:30 and luminaria ceremony at 9:30. The walk concludes at 3 a.m. Saturday... AJGA in Cape (06/13/13) It's been a special week for the area as Cape Girardeau hosted the American Junior Golf Association Rolex Girls Junior Championship. The tournament, which started Monday and continues through Friday, has featured some of the top young female golfers in the world. In addition to U.S. talent, athletes from China, Japan, Ecuador, Venezuela, Thailand, Argentina, Mexico, South Korea, Canada and Puerto Rico were set to compete... Smoking cessation (06/12/13) We know the dangers. We know the importance of quitting. But for many smokers, kicking the nicotine habit is no small feat. A local smoking cessation class began June 5 and is being offered free to the community. Based on the Freedom From Smoking Program, the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center and Saint Francis Medical Center are offering the program in a group environment geared to help increase the likelihood of long-term success in living a smoke-free life... Helping Moore (06/11/13) Last month a tornado killed 24 people in Moore, Okla., ravaging more than 1,200 homes. The devastation is heartbreaking. But in the weeks since the destruction, we've seen countless examples of generosity. Strangers helping those affected -- donating monetarily and through volunteer efforts... Valedictorians (06/10/13) The big news has been dark news lately in Southeast Missouri. With shootings and discovered bodies grabbing the big headlines, we'd like to pause today and look at some of the good things going on in our communities. Every Thursday during the summer season we profile our area valedictorians. ... The Waller case (06/09/13) Stan and Ruby Rawson held a funeral for their daughter Saturday. We can't begin to imagine what they have been through in the last two years, nevermind the last two weeks. The same goes for Jacque Waller's triplet children, and their half-brother; and Jacque's sister, Cheryl Brenneke, as well... State champions (06/07/13) It's a Hollywood script no one would believe. Season after season, coming close but never winning the big game -- until the coach's very last game. Last month Oran baseball became state champions. The Eagles defeated the Santa Fe Chiefs on May 29 in the Class 1 championship. The final score was 8-4... Stillwells (06/06/13) When you think about people who make a difference in the community, Majors Ben and Beth Stillwell belong in the conversation. The couple has served in the Salvation Army for 28 years, the last six in Cape Girardeau. Later this month they will embark on a new challenge when they transfer to Marshalltown, Iowa... Train wreck (06/05/13) Last month a Union Pacific train struck a Burlington Northern Santa Fe train in Rockview, Mo. The crash led to several derailed rail cars, severe damage to a bridge overpass and seven injuries -- though none was serious. The derailment was the third for the area this year... Election Day (06/04/13) After months of speculation, political jockeying, selection processes and campaigning, today voters will head to the polls to elect a representative for the 8th Congressional District. The vote comes about six months after former U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson announced her resignation. Emerson left the House in January to take a position with the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association as CEO... Summer concerts (06/03/13) Summer in the Cape Girardeau area would just not be the same without live music. Friday marked the third week of Tunes at Twilight, a musical tradition that dates back 12 years. Tunes at Twilight is held at 7 p.m. every Friday from mid-May through late June, resuming again in mid-August. ... Air show (06/02/13) It's good to see the air show back in Cape Girardeau. The city announced last month that the Cape Girardeau Air Festival will return after a two-year absence. The event will take place June 28 and 29. Currently on the schedule are the Aerostars Aerobatic Team, a group of planes that perform tricks in a tight formation and perform close pass-bys; Kent Pietsch, a pilot who performs an aerial comedy act and does tricks in a plane sponsored by the Jelly Belly Co.; Bill Leff, a pilot who performs an aerobatic routine and uses pyrotechnics at night in a T-6 Texan; Randy Ball, who performs in a MiG-17F fighter jet; and pilot Mike Rinker, who will fly an aerobatic SU-26 plane. ... Fair entertainment (05/31/13) SEMO District Fair officials recently announced the acts they're bringing to Arena Park this September. The fair will have a truck and tractor pull on opening day, barrel racing Sept. 8, a "freestyle madness" FMX [freestyle motocross] and BMX event Sept. 9, dual-demolition derby Sept. 10 and the 13th annual Heartland Idol on Sept. 11. The musical acts start Sept. 12... Mr. Smith: Our choice for Congress (05/30/13) Editor's note: As editor of the news department, Bob Miller abstained from the decision to endorse. Former U.S. Reps. Bill and Jo Ann Emerson were a fixture in Southeast Missouri politics for 30-plus years. In 1980, Bill Emerson, running in Missouri's 10th District, made history by becoming the first Republican to win the district's congressional seat in more than 50 years. In 1982, after redistricting, he regularly carried the 8th District until his death in 1996... Jackson teachers (05/29/13) This time of the year is usually one for recognizing students: graduations have commenced, students have received their report cards, and now they're looking to find ways to have fun now that school is out. In a general sense, not so much attention is given to teachers this time of year, though they're busier at year's end than any other time. ... Fireworks (05/28/13) The fireworks show is back on in Cape Girardeau. It's been a bit of a roller-coaster ride in the city during the last several years. In 2009, the city stopped funding the show for financial reasons, then the responsibilities were picked up by a veterans group, which announced in February it would not be able to fund fireworks this year... Memorial Day (05/26/13) The following is our annual Memorial Day editorial. When the first ceremonies were held following the Civil War to honor those soldiers who had lost their lives in battle, communities sought to pay proper respect to fallen heroes. Over the years, those observances have been adopted nationwide as Memorial Day. Several special events are planned throughout this holiday weekend, which also traditionally marks the start of summertime activities... Student athletes (05/24/13) Three Southeast Missouri State University athletes were recently recognized at the university's annual scholar-athlete reception. Jared Siemers took home the Jewel Award for the male athlete with the highest grade-point average. Emma Garrett and Margaret O'Neal took home the Trombetta Award, which recognizes the female athlete with the highest grade-point average... Spirit of America (05/23/13) One of the great honors we enjoy at this newspaper is recognizing those who make a difference in our communities. Each summer the Southeast Missourian presents its annual Spirit of America Award, a token of our appreciation for those who give selflessly... Spelling bee (05/22/13) Remember the days of spelling tests? There were flash cards and pop quizzes, and your parents or siblings had their own quizzing methods. While today's tools like auto correct and spell check are useful, the art of spelling shouldn't be overlooked. One local student soon will compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C... State of the race (05/21/13) We are two weeks out from the 8th Congressional District special election. There has been one forum and a second, sponsored by the Cape County Tea Party, will be held at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Cape Girardeau Public Library. Republican Jason Smith, Democrat Steve Hodges, Libertarian Bill Slantz and the Constitution Party candidate Doug Enyart will all participate, as will two write-in candidates... Great Race (05/20/13) June 25 will be an unusually festive Tuesday in Cape Girardeau when more than 100 vintage cars will roll through the city, a stop along the "Great Race" route, which spans from St. Paul, Minn., to Mobile, Ala. Thousands are expected to be in town for the race that day... Police cameras (05/19/13) Improving technology has created endless fuel for the public-privacy debates of our time. We live in a surveillance society with the government and private sectors watching our movements. Whether it's Google or Facebook tracking our online habits for profitable reasons, or the government tracking our whereabouts, there is perhaps less privacy now than ever before in our country's history... Dental clinic (05/17/13) There was a phenomenal display of giving earlier this month when a free dental clinic was held at the Show Me Center. More than 1,000 volunteers -- lay people and dental professionals -- helped provide much needed dental care for hundreds of people in need... Downtown tour (05/16/13) There's a fun opportunity this weekend to visit several historic homes in the downtown area. Old Town Cape will host its annual Downtown Historic Home and Garden Tour from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. Seven homes will be featured, with the homeowners giving tours... New citizens (05/15/13) It's inspiring to hear from people who value their American citizenship. That was the case earlier this month when 29 immigrants became U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony in Cape Girardeau. The ceremony is a culmination of hard work and a display of commitment that these new citizens from 11 countries do not take lightly. ... Sales tax holiday (05/14/13) There may be some good news coming for shoppers and retailers Monday. The Cape Girardeau City Council is considering whether to participate in the state's annual sales tax holiday. The three-day event in August provides shoppers an opportunity to purchase back-to-school items minus the state sales tax... Leadership Cape (05/13/13) There is always much interest in the projects the Leadership Cape groups propose each year. Leadership Cape is a program of the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce for professionals who want to learn more about Cape Girardeau and learn leadership skills... A mother's smile (05/12/13) The following is our annual tribute to mothers. A few smiles for mothers everywhere. Every year, we dutifully and thankfully acknowledge our mothers. We buy gifts. We select greeting cards that say the nicest things. We become part of the crowd at our favorite restaurant... Leadercast (05/10/13) Today a national leadership conference will have a connection with Cape Girardeau. The Chick-fil-A Leadercast, which draws some of the biggest names in business, sports, government and other sectors, will be broadcast from Atlanta, Ga. St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Cape Girardeau will serve as one of the host sites... Graduation (05/09/13) With eyes to the future and memories of hard work and lessons learned in the past, Southeast Missouri State University students will celebrate commencement this weekend. The university will confer 1,333 degrees Saturday at the Show Me Center. Among those to be recognized are 1,048 undergraduates, 283 graduate and specialist candidates and two cooperative doctoral students... A+ program (05/08/13) Missouri's A+ program will expand. That was the message shared by Gov. Jay Nixon last week at Scott City High School. The A+ program provides an opportunity for students to meet specific criteria and receive two years of free college tuition to any of the state's public community colleges. Ninety-nine percent of the state's public high schools are in the program, and Scott City was a recent addition... Youth in Government (05/07/13) Learning can take different forms. Sometimes the most effective tool is through active participation. That's the opportunity students from six area schools had last month thanks to the Optimist Youth In Government Day. The 28th annual event connected more than 50 students with local officials, giving them a look at aspects of city, county and federal government. The six schools included Central High School, Delta, Jackson, Notre Dame, Oak Ridge and Saxony... Celebrating safely (05/06/13) Graduation ceremonies have already begun, and it's a time to celebrate those educational achievements. Getting that diploma took a lot of time and effort, and it's one of the milestones of leaving childhood behind and walking into the steps of adulthood... Assessing health (05/05/13) As a way to address a requirement by the Affordable Care Act of 2010, Cape Girardeau's two major hospitals teamed up with other health care entities to assess health issues facing Southeast Missouri and identify ways to improve the health of the region... Farmers markets (05/03/13) One of the joys of spring is the return of farmers markets. Last month the Cape Farmers Market kicked off its season at the Plaza Galleria parking lot. The weekly market is open from 1 to 6 p.m. Thursdays. A second farmers market for Cape Girardeau began last year. ... Gas prepay (05/02/13) A new prepay at the pump policy for fuel was implemented Wednesday by Cape Girardeau gas stations. The change was made at the request of the city's police department and is an effort to prevent drive-offs and the corresponding time police spend following up on nonpaying customers... Common Core (05/01/13) A forum to discuss new education assessment standards for kindergarten through high school students will take place Thursday at the Career and Technology Center in Cape Girardeau. Common Core State Standards was adopted by the Missouri Board of Education in 2010. ... Dental event (04/30/13) If you have dental insurance, you probably don't think much of your regular cleanings and checkups. However, good dental health is important to your teeth and your overall health. Sadly, there are many people who don't have dental insurance and lack adequate care. For these individuals, not receiving preventive care can lead to bigger problems... News awards (04/29/13) One desire of the Southeast Missourian editorial board is to lift up the good things going on in the community. In this space several times a week, we point out worthy causes and individuals who deserve a pat on the back. Today, we're going to boast on ourselves just a bit... Sahara's Law (04/28/13) Many people know the story of Sahara Aldridge, the 13-year-old Cape Girardeau girl who died in 2007 from a brainstem glioma. Nicknamed "Hoops," her parents started a fundraiser in 2010 named in her honor: Hoops for Life. The 5K run/walk has helped raise money for pediatric brain tumor research... Moonbuggy race (04/26/13) Cape Girardeau Central High School students will participate in NASA's Great Moonbuggy Race for the third year this year; the race is Saturday and Sunday in Huntsville, Ala. Central, the only team from Missouri, is one of more than 100 teams that will participate. The race is designed to emulate driving on the rocky terrain of the moon's surface. The teams will race their buggies along a gravel track over steep hills as part of the contest... Glenn House (04/25/13) A local historical treasure will mark a milestone anniversary Saturday. The Glenn House, a Victorian-style home on Spanish Street in Cape Girardeau, will turn 130 years old. To mark the anniversary, the Historical Association of Greater Cape Girardeau is holding several "Downton Abbey"-themed dinners, showcasing the home and sharing about the group's capital campaign of $130,000. ... Friends of the Park (04/24/13) Cape Girardeau is blessed with many parks, providing great facilities for competitive sports, walking and even Frisbee golf. This Saturday the Friends of the Park Day will be held to help keep these facilities looking nice. The annual event, which in past years has drawn several hundred volunteers, is an important opportunity to spruce up the facilities, plant flowers, spread mulch and paint and stain items like park benches... Regional farming (04/23/13) While those of us who live in more urban parts of the area may not realize it on a daily basis, farming is a major component to Southeast Missouri's economy. Earlier this month, Dr. Michael Aide, chairman of the Department of Agriculture at Southeast Missouri State University, spoke at the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce First Friday Coffee... Boy Scout honors (04/22/13) The Shawneee District of the Boy Scouts of America will hold a new event tonight called the "Good Scout Recognition Dinner." The dinner, which is planned to become an annual affair, aims to increase community awareness and involvement, raise funds and honor significant community leaders. The first-ever recipient of this new award will be the late Dr. James A Kinder, Jr. and his family... Conceal-carry permits (04/21/13) Eric Griffin, a Stoddard County resident, didn't think it was right -- when he went to a license office with his birth certificate, residency documents and conceal-carry permit application -- that the clerk at the counter wanted to scan those documents... Bam! Pow! Cape! (04/19/13) It's time to step out of the phone booth. A "super" three-day event kicks off in Cape Girardeau today. Cape Comic Con -- which features special guests, vendors, comic book artists and more -- has gained increased interest locally over the past seven years. Organizers hope to attract 1,000 attendees this year from five or six states. With that expectation the show has been moved to the Arena Building... Spring festivals (04/18/13) There is much to like about spring, particularly with all the trees and flowers blooming. For one area town, this is an especially beautiful time of year. The Charleston, Mo., Dogwood and Azalea Festival kicks off today and will continue through the weekend. ... Boston Marathon (04/17/13) For Boston, Monday was supposed to be a day of celebration. The much heralded Boston Marathon attracted thousands of runners and spectators. For participants, the day is the result of months of preparation and training. It's also commonly referred to as Patriots Day. But the terror that unfolded was anything but patriotic... Oliver House (04/16/13) A piece of Jackson history continues to be preserved thanks to the efforts of the Jackson Heritage Association, volunteers and community donors. The Southeast Missourian recently reported that the Oliver House -- named after a prominent local lawyer, county prosecuting attorney and state senator -- is open for tours. According to one organizer behind the facility, the house has undergone several improvements... Library Week (04/15/13) This week is National Library Week. When some think of libraries, they think of places they can go to check out books, but libraries are much more these days. They are meeting places, information centers and computer labs. There are books on compact disc, and activities for young, old and everyone in between... Margaret Thatcher (04/14/13) The world lost a transcendent leader last week when former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher died at the age of 87. If you are conservative in your political views, then you are likely to admire the life of the woman known as the "Iron Lady." Thatcher was strong in her belief of the individual and family units... Relay for Life (04/12/13) Most of us have been touched at some point, directly or through a family member, by cancer. With ongoing research, medical advances and awareness events, more folks diagnosed are surviving and living lives of purpose. Joyce Penny is one of these individuals... School musicals (04/11/13) There will be much singing, dancing and acting this weekend as three local high schools perform popular musicals. Cape Girardeau Central High School will host its first play in the new Richard D. Kinder Performance Hall beginning tonight. The inaugural production is "The Diary of Anne Frank" and will be performed by a 10-member cast... ‘Girl Rising' (04/10/13) A new movie championing the importance of education for women will be shown Thursday night at Wehrenberg Theatres in Cape Girardeau. "Girl Rising" is a documentary that tells the stories of women facing challenging environments, but who share a dream of receiving an education. The nine women, of different countries, who are spotlighted come from varying backgrounds and different challenges including: bonded labor, abuse, extreme poverty and forced marriage... Jeff Corwin (04/09/13) Lions, tigers and bears ... It might not be the "Wizard of Oz," but there will be plenty of good stories to hear Wednesday night when animal and nature enthusiast Jeff Corwin speaks at the Show Me Center. Noted for television shows "The Jeff Corwin Experience" and "Corwin's Quest" on the Animal Planet, Corwin will give a presentation beginning at 7:30 p.m. titled "Tales From the Field." The speech is part of the Southeast Missouri State University Speaker's Series... Baseball conversations (04/08/13) If you're a St. Louis Cardinals fan, you know what today is. It's opening day at Busch Stadium, the day the Sea of Red celebrates the history of baseball and the game that bonds fans of multiple generations. This editorial is not intended for you, Cardinal fan... Autism awareness (04/07/13) An Associated Press story published last week in the Southeast Missourian cited a parental survey that showed 1 in 50 children has autism. That's a really big and scary number. Autism, a neurological disorder, is complicated. It is a spectrum disorder, meaning there are different categories, and it affects everyone in different ways. The umbrella of autism in recent years has been more inclusive, which is one reason for the increasing numbers... Messy Morning (04/05/13) A popular event that encourages fun for children while being messy returns to the Show Me Center on Saturday. Messy Morning, now in its sixth year, attracted more than 3,500 children and parents last year, and organizers are looking for another strong turnout this year... Prom/graduation (04/04/13) This is an exciting time of year for many high school students. A photo on the Sotheast Missourian's March 28 neXt page showed students having fun at the Oran prom. Other schools will follow in the coming weeks, and we look forward to seeing photos of students decked out in their formal wear. To view photo galleries of these events, visit semissourian.com/multimedia... Emerson's legacy (04/03/13) In June when the 8th Congressional District selects a new member of Congress, one name long associated with the area will be missing from the ballot: Emerson. Former U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson announced in December she would leave Congress in the new year to serve as president and CEO of National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. The not-for-profit organization represents more than 900 rural electric cooperatives across the country... ‘The Bible' (04/02/13) On Sunday, millions of Christians around the world celebrated Easter Sunday, also known as Resurrection Sunday. It's a time to remember the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross and his resurrection from the grave. Something special this year leading up to Easter was the five-week miniseries "The Bible." Produced by "Touched by an Angel" star Roma Downey and her husband Mark Burnett, producer of "The Voice" and "Survivor," the series told a number of stories from the Bible, beginning with creation and concluding Sunday night with the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus and even part of Revelation.. ... Criminal dangers (04/01/13) Last month three inmates, including two accused of murder, escaped from the Poplar Bluff, Mo., jail. Jail escapes are legendary in fictional lore, from the acclaimed "Shawshank Redemption" movie to action blockbusters to slapstick sitcoms such as the "Dukes of Hazzard."... Easter (03/31/13) A miraculous event 2,000 years ago in Jerusalem changed the world. On this Easter morning, the story is presented again from the Holy Bible (the Gospel according to St. Matthew, Chapter 28):In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. ... Municipal election (03/29/13) School board seats, city council and alderman races, a deer hunting ordinance and use tax propositions are a few of the ballot items to be decided in Tuesday's municipal election. In Cape Girardeau voters will be asked if the city council's urban deer hunting ordinance should be repealed. Here's the ballot language:... Walk for Women (03/28/13) On April 13, the Southeast Missouri State University Athletics Department will hold its sixth annual Walk for Women, an event held to help raise money for athletic scholarships and spotlight women athletes. Cindy Gannon, Southeast senior associate director of athletics, told the Southeast Missourian earlier this month that while the walk is a way to promote the women's teams, the scholarship money generated helps men and women athletes at the university... Dance conference (03/27/13) More than 400 students from 22 colleges and universities are in town for the American College Dance Festival Association Central Region Conference. The conference, which began Sunday and continues through Thursday, is being held at the Holland School of Visual and Performing Arts at the River Campus... Cross walks (03/26/13) For Christians around the world, Sunday was the start of Holy Week. Area churches have held special performances ranging from choir and drama presentations to more elaborate passions plays -- the play at First Baptist Church in Jackson, for example. These events serve as great opportunities to share the story of Jesus, from his early years in ministry through his death and resurrection. If you participated in any of these events, thank you... Food bank grant (03/25/13) The Missouri Foundation for Health, a St. Louis-based philanthropic organization, recently announced a $1 million grant to the Southeast Missouri Food Bank. It is a helpful donation. And, just one of several given to food banks across the state. The food bank has been struggling in recent years to keep up with the increased demand for those who have lost jobs. ... Nursing program (03/24/13) Public education in the Cape Girardeau region has taken an unprecedented step, at least in Missouri, by offering high school seniors early access to its practical nursing program. The program, to begin in August, will accept qualified students into the two-year program; the seniors will receive three credits after completing the first year, and after graduation, they can finish the remaining courses to complete the program the following year... Home show (03/22/13) OK, spring got off to a rough start in terms of the weather. But fear not Southeast Missourians, for there will be plenty of spring-related activities going on this weekend as the home and garden show, officially known as the Tri State Regional Home and Garden Show, kicks off. It will take place at the Show Me Center... Junior high musical (03/21/13) Cape Girardeau Central Junior High School will hold its annual spring musical beginning tonight. The 7 p.m. performances run through Saturday. This year's production is "Beauty and the Beast." While the musical is usually held in May, director Mike Dumey and the cast have fast forwarded their efforts seven weeks to avoid scheduling conflicts. Dumey, who called this year's cast a "great group," said the students have put in many hours for practice since January... Scholar Bowl (03/20/13) Like any competition, there's much work that goes into Scholar Bowl. No, there may not be thousands of fans in the grandstand. But for the students competing, it's an exciting time of year. A story in the March 14 Southeast Missourian highlighted the efforts of area Scholar Bowl teams. ... Soles4Souls (03/19/13) A group of volunteers again is partnering with Soles4Souls to collect gently worn shoes locally. Earlier this month a memorial walk was held to kick off this year's drive. The Heath Bain Memorial Walk was held at the River Campus to honor a man who made a stop, along with his wife Melissa, in Cape Girardeau last year as part of the Soles4Souls University RV Tour. ... State flag history (03/18/13) There is quite a story sewed into our city's historical fabric. The state flag was designed here in 1913, 100 years ago, by a woman named Marie Watkins Oliver. The 100th anniversary of the flag will be celebrated in Cape Girardeau from Thursday through Saturday... Discovery Playhouse success continues (03/17/13) The Discovery Playhouse children's museum on Broadway has come a long way in a short time. In 2010, the first year of its existence at its Broadway location, the Playhouse attracted more than 17,000 people, followed by 24,000 in 2011 and 25,000 in 2012. Those are impressive numbers, especially considering the construction that blocked traffic on Broadway last year... Kids' fitness (03/15/13) We all know that exercise is an important part of being physically fit. But it's not only for adults. A story by Samantha Rinehart in Tuesday's Southeast Missourian highlighted several fitness opportunities for children. The Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department now is offering registration for several low-cost programs, including swimming, baseball, basketball and other fun-filled activities... Great seasons (03/14/13) An incredible season just got better for Georgetown's Otto Porter. On Tuesday, the former standout for Scott County Central was unanimously selected the Big East Conference's Player of the Year. In his sophomore year, Porter was one of the top Division I college basketball players in the country. His numbers for rebounding, steals and 3-point shooting were among the best in the top-tier conference. With an overall record of 24-5, the Hoyas appear poised to do well in the NCAA tournament... Rotary Club (03/13/13) It's a regular occurrence to read about efforts of generosity in this community. Countless folks volunteer or make monetary donations, each making a big difference. In Sunday's Good Times there was a story about the Cape West Rotary Club's support of the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri. ... Molly Kinder (03/12/13) For many high school seniors, the last few months before graduation are filled with plans for the summer and goals for entering college, the military or workforce. But for Cape Girardeau Central High School student Molly Kinder, college, though in her plans, will have to wait. For now, she's looking to spend a year abroad as a missionary... Herndon scholarship (03/11/13) Meg Herndon was a beautiful person. She was a nursing student and a soccer player in her senior year at Southeast Missouri State University and by all accounts a good teammate and friend. She was loved by many. Meg died following a September scooter accident in which she was not wearing a helmet... United Way (03/10/13) The United Way of Southeast Missouri announced some good news Thursday when it unveiled that it had exceeded its 2012 goal with $955,898 collected so far, beating the target of $950,000. Several contributions still are to be reported, with the final tally coming after the March 31 donation deadline... Science fair a big draw (03/08/13) There were 321 projects on display Tuesday for the 57th Southeast Missouri Regional Science Fair at the Show Me Center. The annual event -- this year was the largest yet -- is always impressive as area students showcase their work. There were 438 students, split among the junior and senior divisions, representing 33 schools. ... Celebrate Hope (03/07/13) It's easy to take things for granted. Electricity, for example. On Tuesday night more than 2,700 Ameren Missouri customers were in the dark. These things happen and can be an inconvenience. But imagine what it would be like to live not only without electricity, but clean water, too. This, along with a host of other problems, is a reality for many living in impoverished countries... OTC awards (03/06/13) On Thursday, Old Town Cape held its annual dinner and awards ceremony. This event is an opportunity to recognize many who do important work in the downtown area. Receiving the Charles L. Hutson Visionary Award was Roger and Judith Anne Lang. The Lang family operated a jewelry store in downtown Cape Girardeau for 96 years, culminating last year with the Langs retirement... Michelle Kwan (03/05/13) The Southeast Missouri State University Speakers Series continues Wednesday with Michelle Kwan, an Olympian and World Figure Skating champion, set to speak at the Show Me Center. Kwan's speech is called "Aspiring to Greatness: What It Takes to Win." Many remember Kwan for her success in the Olympics, where she earned two medals. Her figure skating career also includes 43 championships. In 2012 she was honored with an induction into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame... Emergency response (03/04/13) When big emergencies such as natural disasters happen, there are all kinds of responses. There are responses on the individual level -- obtaining care for injuries, having adequate plans for lodging and food and communicating with your family. There are responses on the community level -- churches and organizations respond with help in the way of food or chain-saw teams, for example... Fireworks decision (03/03/13) The USA Veterans group that organized the Fourth of July fireworks displays the last four years recently announced it will not have the resources to do so again this year. This is disappointing, not just to the thousands of people who enjoyed the Fourth festivities at Arena Park, but to those with the USA Veterans as well...

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