Real Talk with Riggin

Former pro basketball player Jared Armstrong is taking part in a powerful resilience tour across Israel, using his platform and personal story to connect with communities facing ongoing challenges. The tour focuses on themes of perseverance, unity, and mental toughness—qualities Armstrong developed on the court and now shares off it—while engaging with local leaders, youth, and families impacted by conflict. Through speaking events and community visits, Armstrong aims to inspire hope and highlight the importance of resilience in the face of adversity, bringing a unique perspective shaped by both his athletic career and his commitment to encouraging others worldwide.

Debate heated up over a proposed “millionaires tax” in Illinois, with critics warning it could have far broader consequences than advertised. According to Illinois Policy Institute Policy Analyst Dylan Sharkey, the measure may have impacted more than just high-income individuals, potentially hitting around 22,000 small and mid-sized businesses that file taxes through the individual code. Sharkey argues that many of these pass-through businesses—ranging from family-owned operations to growing enterprises—could have faced higher tax burdens, raising concerns about job growth, investment, and overall economic competitiveness in the state. Supporters of the proposal contend it would generate needed revenue from top earners, but opponents say the ripple effects on local businesses could outweigh the benefits.

The 27th Annual All-American Soap Box Derby is set to bring excitement and community spirit once again, as participants of all ages take to the track in this beloved tradition. Race Director Dave Rigdon, representing the dedicated efforts of the Cape Rotary Club, highlights the event as a celebration of youth achievement, engineering creativity, and friendly competition. Families and spectators can look forward to a day filled with thrilling races, local pride, and the opportunity to cheer on young drivers as they chase victory and build lasting memories.

The annual observance of the National Day of Prayer brings communities together in reflection, unity, and faith, offering a moment for individuals across the country to pause and seek guidance and strength. This year’s local gathering, coordinated by Bob Nations, invites residents to join in a shared expression of hope and gratitude, emphasizing the importance of prayer in both personal lives and the broader community. With participation from local leaders, clergy, and citizens, the event highlights a spirit of togetherness and serves as a reminder of the enduring role faith can play in times of challenge and celebration alike.

The screening of Promise Land brings excitement and anticipation as audiences gather to experience the powerful new film from writer, producer, and cast member Erik Harper. Blending compelling storytelling with a deeply personal vision, Harper’s work shines through both behind the camera and in his on-screen performance, offering a narrative that resonates with themes of perseverance, faith, and redemption. The event highlights not only the film’s emotional impact but also the passion and dedication that went into its creation, giving attendees a firsthand look at a project that has been years in the making.

In a wide-ranging discussion, Joseph Vasquez of Media Research Center’s business division highlighted concerns over increasing financial influence in upcoming elections, pointing to renewed political spending tied to George Soros and its potential impact on key midterm races. Vasquez also examined recent reports of wealthy donors stepping in to support NPR amid ongoing funding debates, raising questions about media independence and the broader role of billionaire-backed funding in shaping public discourse. The conversation underscored growing scrutiny over how concentrated wealth intersects with both politics and journalism in the current landscape.

The Spring Garage Sale at the Osage Center is back, offering shoppers a chance to discover great deals while supporting the community. Hosted by Parks and Recreation, this popular event brings together a wide variety of vendors selling everything from household items and clothing to collectibles and unique finds. Assistant Recreation Division Manager Dianne Lawrence says the sale is a perfect opportunity for bargain hunters and families alike to enjoy a fun, affordable outing while also giving sellers a space to declutter and connect with local buyers. With something for everyone, the Spring Garage Sale continues to be a seasonal favorite for the community.

The Jackson Area Garden Tour is set to showcase some of the region’s most beautiful and thoughtfully curated landscapes, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore local horticulture and history. Cape Girardeau County Historical Society History Center & Research Annex Director Carla Jordan says the tour not only highlights the creativity and dedication of area gardeners, but also connects attendees to the community’s rich heritage through the stories behind each property. From vibrant flower beds to carefully designed outdoor living spaces, the event promises inspiration for gardening enthusiasts of all levels while supporting the Society’s ongoing efforts to preserve and share local history.

Tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz continue to weigh heavily on global energy markets, as even the threat of disruption along this critical النفط transit route can send oil prices sharply higher. According to Jason Isaac, the chokepoint handles a significant share of the world’s crude exports, making it one of the most geopolitically sensitive corridors for energy security. Isaac emphasizes that instability in the region underscores the importance of U.S. energy independence and diversified supply chains, noting that domestic production can help buffer price shocks when international tensions rise. As markets react to uncertainty, traders often price in risk premiums, meaning consumers can feel the impact at the pump even without an actual supply disruption.

President Donald Trump has moved to extend the current ceasefire with Iran, signaling a cautious pause in hostilities as negotiations remain stalled and tensions persist across the region. The extension, described as open-ended, is intended to give Iranian leadership additional time to produce a unified proposal while avoiding an immediate return to large-scale conflict, even as both sides continue strategic pressure through blockades and regional posturing. According to Asaf Romirowsky, the decision reflects a complex balancing act—maintaining leverage while keeping diplomatic channels alive—amid internal divisions within Tehran and broader geopolitical stakes involving the Strait of Hormuz and global energy markets. The ceasefire extension underscores both the fragility of the current truce and the high-risk environment in which any breakdown in talks could quickly reignite wider conflict.