Good morning, Cape Girardeau.

Funeral arrangements have been announced for Gerard Essner, a Mississippi County farmer and retired Army veteran killed Oct.6.

Visitation is scheduled for Sunday Oct.12 at St. Lawrence Parish Center from 4 to 8 p.m.—a Knights of Columbus service will follow and a funeral Mass is set for Monday Oct.13 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church.

The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library will host the 6th Annual Spirit of Democracy Banquet on November 1 at the Osage Centre in Cape Girardeau, featuring keynote speakers Colonel John W.

Clark and Wayne Wallingford who will share their Vietnam War experiences. Tickets are $125—tables are available to sponsor area veterans groups.

Members of Jackson Fire Rescue honored fallen Sikeston officer Henry Franklin Thursday afternoon by escorting him through Cape Girardeau County—bringing him home.

The Cape Girardeau County Archive Center celebrated 25 years with an open house Friday afternoon.

The center stores county records and local history documents and was created to help residents research the past—county leaders planned and supported its development.

After 45 years of service, the Malden Nutrition Center closes today due to a nearly $7,000 funding gap that puts its 50 daily meals and 100 weekly frozen meals for homebound residents at risk—Director Denton Kooyman is working with local lawmakers and the mayor to propose a county-wide tax to support similar programs. The center has long been a key gathering space for seniors and its closure leaves vulnerable residents without needed meals.

Arts Council of Southeast Missouri is hosting the 'Let the Gourd Times Roll' pumpkin carving festival with four upcoming events for those aged 10 and older, featuring The Pumpkin Outlaw—Jesse James.

Sessions occur on October 11 at 3 p.m. at the Arts Council, October 15 at 6 p.m. at Ebb & Flow Fermentations, October 22 at 6 p.m. at Minglewood Brewery, and October 25 at 3 p.m. at George’s on Broadway with tickets costing $35.

AAA Missouri reports that gas prices fell today as winter-blend fuel replaces summer fuel—Missouri drivers are paying a state average of $2.76 per gallon with Jefferson City at $2.91 and Joplin at $2.58, and prices are expected to drop further as supplies remain high.

Southeast Missouri State University is preparing for Homecoming 2025 starting Oct.

13 with a faculty brunch, academic showcase on Oct. 16, and a presidential inauguration on Oct. 17 inside the Show Me Center. The weekend will also include a parade, tailgate, and football game to reconnect the campus community—continuing SEMO's long tradition of celebration and academic pride.

On Thursday morning, Cape Girardeau County signed a proclamation officially declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month—joining the sheriff’s office, the Safe House of Southeast Missouri, and county officials in this effort.

The sheriff’s office said it remains committed to working with advocates—survivors, families, and community partners—to raise awareness and provide support for those affected by domestic violence.

Two new statues representing a male service member and a female service member will be unveiled at Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial in Perryville on October 26 at 2 p.m.; organizers say the free ceremony will honor every Veteran past, present, and future.

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.

Charleston Southern Buccaneers at Southeast Missouri State Redhawks Football Game

1-2:30 p.m. — Houck Stadium — Catch the exciting football match as the SEMO Redhawks take on the Charleston Southern Buccaneers.

Wome

The Zonta Club of Cape is proud to host the annual Women of Achievement Luncheon, a prestigious event dedicated to celebrating and recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of women in our community. This luncheon brings together influential leaders, community advocates, and supporters to honor the achievements and contributions of remarkable women who have made a significant impact in various fields.