Talent spokesman to be in Jackson

Talent spokesman to be in Jackson Thursday

Jeff Glenn, district director for U.S. Sen. Jim Talent's Southeast Missouri office, will be in Jackson at 8:15 a.m. Thursday at the Cape Girardeau County Courthouse, 1 Barton Square, to meet with area constituents. Glenn is representing Talent as part of his statewide "Missouri Matters" community outreach effort. The effort was designed by Talent to keep in touch with constituents, giving them an opportunity to discuss issues or request federal assistance.

FEMA: No funds for storm-struck counties

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency denied Gov. Matt Blunt's request for federal disaster assistance for damage caused by tornadoes and high winds last month. More than 600 homes and 75 businesses were damaged in 12 counties from storms Sept. 22 and 23, according to a news release from Blunt's office on Friday. As part of those storms, an F4 tornado swept through the Perry County village of Crosstown, Mo., leaving a trail of destruction that damaged about 60 homes and displaced around 200 people in the area. No one was seriously injured. "Obviously I am disappointed by FEMA's decision," Blunt said in the release. "Affordable housing and long-term recovery are a major concern as winter approaches." Blunt said he would review FEMA's denial, gather additional information and appeal the agency's decision.

SEMOW Lawnracers hold fall festival

SEMOW Lawnracers begin festivities for their first annual fall festival at 1 p.m. today at Allenville. Apple bobbing, other games, a 50/50 drawing and free drawings plus a chili meal will be featured. Lawn mower races begin at 4 p.m. with a power wheel race for children 5 and under; there will be a Halloween costume contest at 7 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for age categories 2-years-old and younger, 3- to 5-year olds and 6- to 10-year-olds.

Nature center events planned today, Sunday

The Conservation Campus Nature Center has scheduled several activities for today and Sunday:

* From 8 a.m. to noon today explore Perry County caves with experienced cavers. The Nature Center will provide transportation, helmets and head lamps. No food is allowed inside the caves. Participants should bring two flashlights with fresh batteries, sturdy footwear, a backpack and an extra change of clothes. Knee and elbow pads are optional. The event is for ages 12 to 17. Call 290-5218 to register.

* From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. today volunteer Charlie Wilson will offer a beginner photography course for people age 14 and up. The course starts with the elements of good photography and finishes with a photography field experience. Bring a sack lunch and camera equipment.

* From 10 to 11 a.m. today the Tadpoles program, for ages 0 to 2, provides the opportunity for a guided nature stroll along White Oak Trace path. Infants and toddlers will experience nature with parents. Call 290-5218 to register.

* From 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday a presentation and discussion describing Missouri Conservation areas to visit within an hour's drive of Cape Girardeau is open to ages 8 and up. Maps and brochures available. Call 290-5218 to register.

Public invited to church homecoming in Crump

Bethlehem General Baptist Church at Crump will have its annual homecoming starting with a 10 a.m. service Sunday. Potluck lunch will follow at noon. After-lunch singing will feature Ozark Foothills. The public is invited.

-- From staff reports