Good morning, Cape Girardeau.

Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center and SIU Sustainability will host a 'Feeding Our Community' grill-out on Wednesday, Nov.

19 from noon to 2 p.m. at the Town Square Pavilion—this event supports unhoused residents and builds community connections as part of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.

Operation Christmas is underway as people pack shoebox gifts with toys, school supplies, and care items at six drop off spots in southeast Missouri.

Volunteer couple Joann and Ron Williams from Benton have worked nearly 40 hours a week for 20 years and pack about 2,000 boxes each year, hoping others continue the tradition.

Early Saturday morning, Portageville Fire & Rescue responded to a fire on Baker Avenue that destroyed a one-story home—firefighters received mutual aid from New Madrid Fire, no one was home and no injuries were reported.

Southeast Missouri State University announced Monday it would stay in the Ohio Valley Conference—saying the move fits its values and regional ties—and officials said the decision will help maintain a stable league as other schools departed.

Students from SEMO’s Arrow newspaper earned national honors in the 2025 College Media Association Pinnacle Awards at a convention in Washington—D.C.

Their awards for multimedia storytelling, design and production show the strength of SEMO’s mass media program.

A team of Cape Girardeau 911 communicators earned Clinical Life Save Awards on Monday morning for their quick response during a September 30 emergency call that led to a patient's full recovery—Fire Chief Randy Morris said the swift decision making allowed more units to be dispatched. The commendation recognizes their hard work and dedication in handling a critical incident.

Ameren Missouri is warning Cape Girardeau residents to have their gas appliances checked as colder weather and Thanksgiving gatherings increase the risk of gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning.

The utility said that if residents smell a rotten egg scent or hear a hissing sound, they should leave immediately and call for help.

AAA issued travel updates ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend – record numbers of travelers are expected on roads and at airports from November 25 to December 1.

Spokesperson Nick Chabarria urged drivers to leave early and check tires and batteries to avoid roadside delays.

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.

River Valley Craft Club – 50th Annual Craft Fair

River Valley Craft Club – 50th Annual Craft Fair – Multiple Crafters and Vendors with lots of handmade crafts and unique items, Santa will be joining us both days so bring your children to get a picture with Santa. Saturday and Sunday, November 22-23 at the A C Brase Arena Building, 410 Kiwanis Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO, event times are Saturday 9 am to 5 pm and Sunday 10 am to 4 pm.

5th Annual Mary Mingle 5k

8 AM – 2 PM — Mary Jane bourbon + smokehouse — Registration required — Participate in a community-driven run and support a good cause.

Toys For Tots 24-Hour Drive

8 AM-8 PM — Schnucks Cape Girardeau — Donations appreciated — Help make a child’s holiday brighter with toys and cash contributions for local families in need.