Good morning, Cape Girardeau.

Hot and dry weather is affecting Perryville Pumpkin Farms, where early pumpkins are big but later ones may be smaller without rain—farm owners also say the drought is hurting their corn and soybean mazes, yet the farm stays open daily until Halloween for family fun.

The Jackson R-2 School District and Saint Francis Healthcare System launched the inaugural JR2 Ignite CAPs program this week for Jackson High School students, offering hands-on learning and career preparation to build stronger workforce partnerships—promising lasting benefits for students and the local community.

The Missouri Department of Conservation and Forest ReLeaf of Missouri will provide free trees on Oct.

8 at 2610 Industrial Drive for schools, nonprofits, neighborhood associations and community groups to plant on community projects—registration is required by Sept. 30 via Forest ReLeaf’s website.

FICO said credit scores are dropping the fastest since 2009—GenZ shows the largest fall as many college students struggle with loans and bills; experts noted that better financial education could help curb risky spending.

The Cape Girardeau police corrected misinformation about state legislation protecting first responders—House Bill 225 now mandates a 20-foot distance for safety and classifies violations as a Class A misdemeanor.

Residents are reminded to review RSMo 574.207 for accurate details.

Mercy Southeast will host a free community health event Oct.

11 from 9 a.m. to noon at Mercy Cancer Center — 789 S. Mount Auburn Road — offering free screenings, educational materials, and demonstrations on fire safety and blood drives while local partners provide additional resources and activities for children and families.

During Child Passenger Safety Week, free car seat checks will be held from September 21st to 27th by safety advocates including Cape Girardeau Safe Communities and the Southeast Coalition for Roadway Safety at locations such as Bloomfield, Fredericktown, and Hayti — among others.

Certified technicians will inspect harnesses, check expiration dates and proper installation — ensuring children ride safely.

Third Annual Kiwanis / John Morlan Jeep Show

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Kiwanis Park — Free entry — Celebrate all things Jeep with awards, a kids division, and fun for the whole family.

Arkansauce Concert

12-3 AM — Scout Hall — Ticket prices not specified — Enjoy a night of genre-blending tunes from this dynamic four-piece string band.

City of Roses Half Marathon & 5K

7 a.m. — Osage Centre - City of Cape Girardeau Parks & Recreation Department — Registration required — Celebrate the 45th Annual City of Roses Half Marathon and 5K with a race in beautiful Cape Girardeau.

Color Dash 5K and Fun Walk

10 a.m. — Arena Park — Register by September 12 for discounted entry — Participate in a colorful 5K run supporting cancer screenings.

The Next Level Fundraiser

7-11 p.m. — Buckner-Ragsdale Event Center — Enjoy a night of music with local bands and DJs while supporting a vital community cause.