Good morning, Cape Girardeau.

SEMO will host K12TechPro NEXT Day on Friday, Feb.20 from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. at the University Center, where regional educators will explore emerging K-12 technology trends through hands-on breakout sessions and a Tech Talk featuring a 2026 forecast and prize giveaways.

Missouri lawmaker Willard Haley has proposed a bill that would allow teachers to begin classrooms after two years of training instead of four through a three-tier program with mentoring and evaluations to address the teacher shortage — however, officials like superintendent Bradley Kolwyck question whether a shortened course can prepare educators.

Doctors in Cape Girardeau are using AI to explain and summarize medical symptoms and advice (boosting understanding) while urging patients to confirm results with their doctors.

Mercy Southeast and St. Francis Healthcare remain committed to personal care while employing AI to assist documentation and flag time-critical findings.

Cassi Holcomb advises rethinking Valentine’s Day gifts with a garden instead of roses so recipients enjoy lasting blooms and support pollinators (many plants will only bloom in spring).

Local nurseries offer ideas and pricing.

The Cardinals and Gray Media announced a free Home Plate package that will air 10 regular-season games + select Spring Training and minor league contests starting April 24 on KFVS and KFVS-Too to expand local coverage for fans.