Good morning, Cape Girardeau.

Earlier this year, a baby was surrendered to the new Safe Haven Baby Box at the Fruitland Fire Station, making it the first in the county and the state's third newborn surrender since the law changed.

The box was funded with a $12,000 donation from the Jeremiah 29:11 Foundation+Fruitland Fire Chief Rob Francis said it is monitored 24/7 while Lutheran Family and Children’s Services offers free adoption support for families in crisis.

The Cape Girardeau VA Health Care Center will host its 4th Annual Fall Freedom Festival tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. — with 25 outreach booths, veteran groups, representatives from the Veterans Benefits Administration, free food from community partners, and a drive-thru flu shot clinic available from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. —.

Jackson Fire Rescue will host its annual Community Safety Day at Jackson City Park on Oct.

25th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. More than 15 organizations will offer safety tips, live demonstrations + giveaways, and families can explore fire trucks, meet Air Evac crews, and enjoy food from Curley’s Kitchen and a local ice cream truck.

Trend Setters School in Cape Girardeau donated $5,000 to Southeast Missouri Pets to offer free adoptions today — the funds will help more shelter pets find new homes while available.

Jenn Farmer, the shelter’s Executive Director, said the donation comes as the shelter faces growing space challenges.

Today, the BBB warns consumers about phishing scams where callers posing as loan agents repeatedly contact people—using scripted messages and changing caller IDs to push for personal information verification.

Residents are advised to verify loan calls directly and keep detailed records of their applications to avoid falling victim.

SEMO Jazz Concert will feature a West Side Story-inspired performance directed by Felipe Brito on October 21 at 7:30 p.m. in Bedell Performance Hall on River Campus—tickets are free for the public and students pay $5 at the box office.

Southern 7 Head Start is celebrating Head Start Awareness Month throughout October at its centers and engaging children and families in activities that highlight its history and mission—its programs give free early learning and support services to help kids get ready for kindergarten.

Cape Career and Technology Center opened its new welding facility on Wednesday morning at its campus on South Silver Springs Road.

A ribbon cutting at 10:30 a.m. and an open house—featuring state-of-the-art training equipment and expanded classroom space—helped set the stage for students to earn welding certifications and gain hands-on experience.

Melanie Baxter, a certified genetic counselor at Saint Francis Healthcare System, explained that BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes help repair damaged DNA — and harmful mutations in these genes can raise the risk of cancer.

She advises patients to discuss genetic testing with their doctor to better understand their inherited risks.

Ameren lineworkers, apprentices, and judges from Missouri and Illinois will travel later this week to Bonner Springs, Kansas to compete in the 41st annual International Lineman's Rodeo.

The competition will feature events like the Hurtman Rescue and a Pole Climb contest as families watch skills that keep power lines safe.

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.

Missouri State Bears vs. Southeast Missouri State Redhawks Women's Basketball

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Show Me Center — Cost not specified — Experience an exciting women's basketball matchup between the Missouri State Lady Bears and the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks.

The Doubted Live with Unknown And Sailing & Eternal Embers

9 PM - 1 AM — Rude Dog Pub — Check for admission details — Experience a night of music from local talents on the banks of the Mississippi.

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.