Real Talk with Riggin

An update from Brad Jones highlights a growing sense of cautious optimism among small business owners across Missouri, even as they continue to navigate persistent challenges like inflation, workforce shortages, and regulatory uncertainty. Jones notes that while confidence has ticked upward in recent months—driven in part by easing cost pressures and resilient consumer demand—many Main Street employers remain concerned about long-term economic stability and policy decisions at both the state and federal level. He emphasizes that small businesses are adapting through innovation and efficiency, but stresses the importance of pro-growth policies, tax relief, and workforce development to sustain momentum and ensure continued optimism heading into the remainder of the year.

The American Action Forum (AAF) is launching a targeted campaign to brief and equip members of Congress with key data and analysis on the benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) as the midterm elections approach. According to Research Fellow Preston Brashers, the initiative aims to ensure lawmakers clearly understand how the legislation impacts economic growth, regulatory reform, and fiscal policy so they can effectively communicate those outcomes to constituents. The effort includes detailed policy memos, direct briefings on Capitol Hill, and strategic outreach designed to sharpen the messaging around OBBB’s projected benefits, positioning it as a central talking point in upcoming campaign narratives.

Following the successful passage of the recent proposition, Cape Public Schools are focused on strategic investments that will have the greatest impact on students, staff, and the community, according to Assistant Superintendent Josh Crowell. Key project priorities include addressing critical facility upgrades, enhancing campus safety and security measures, and expanding classroom space to accommodate growth and evolving educational needs. The district also plans to invest in updated technology and infrastructure to better support modern learning environments, while ensuring that maintenance needs across all buildings are met in a timely and sustainable way. Crowell emphasized that these improvements are designed to strengthen the overall educational experience and position the district for long-term success.

A new report highlighted by MRC Free Speech America and discussed by Director Michael Morris argues that Google News is playing a powerful role in shaping public opinion on the Iran war by disproportionately promoting certain narratives over others. According to the analysis, Google News featured 239 stories on the conflict in March, with 183 coming from outlets rated as left-leaning and only six from right-leaning sources, raising concerns about a lack of viewpoint diversity and the potential for a one-sided narrative reaching millions of Americans. Morris and others warn that as more people rely on digital news aggregators rather than traditional media, these platforms act as modern gatekeepers, influencing how audiences understand complex geopolitical events like the Iran war and ultimately shaping broader public perception.

The Catholics Come Home is reporting a significant surge in young adults entering the Catholic Church this Easter season, marking what many are calling a record-breaking year of conversions and returns to the faith. According to President and Founder Dr. Ryan Hanning, the trend reflects a growing spiritual hunger among younger generations seeking meaning, community, and tradition in an increasingly uncertain world. Hanning notes that many of these new members cite a desire for deeper truth and authentic connection as key reasons for embracing the Church, highlighting a broader cultural shift toward faith exploration among young adults.

Arrowleaf has been awarded a $350,000 grant to launch its new Project ReLeaf Transitional Housing Program, an initiative designed to provide safe, supportive housing and resources for individuals working to rebuild their lives. According to CEO Sherrie Crabb, the program will focus on helping participants achieve long-term stability through access to housing, case management, and community-based support services. The funding marks a significant step forward for Arrowleaf as it expands its mission to serve vulnerable populations, offering a pathway toward independence and renewed opportunity for those in need.

A government watchdog group is taking aim at the American Medical Association, filing a formal complaint with the IRS seeking to revoke the organization’s tax-exempt status. According to Do No Harm Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kurt Miceli, the complaint alleges the AMA has strayed from its stated nonprofit mission by engaging in political advocacy and promoting policies critics argue are outside the scope of its charitable purpose. Miceli says the filing raises broader questions about accountability and whether major medical organizations should maintain tax-exempt privileges while taking positions on controversial social and political issues.

The stage is set at Notre Dame for this year’s spring musical, Damn Yankees, bringing together talented students under the direction of theater teacher Emily Steimle. The production features standout performances from students Josef Alipala, John Paul Alipala, Adam Cork, and Nate Imhoff, who have been working hard to bring the classic musical to life. With its mix of humor, music, and high-energy choreography, Damn Yankees promises to be an entertaining showcase of the students’ dedication and passion for the performing arts.

Southeast Missouri State University is breaking new ground with Missouri’s first 90-credit-hour bachelor’s degree, an innovative approach designed to reduce both the time and cost of earning a college diploma. According to Dr. Brian Donavant, chair of the Department of Criminal Justice, Social Work, & Sociology at Southeast Missouri State University, the program aims to maintain academic rigor while offering a more efficient pathway for students eager to enter the workforce sooner. By trimming excess credit requirements without sacrificing essential coursework, SEMO is positioning itself at the forefront of higher education reform, responding to growing concerns over student debt and accessibility while still preparing graduates for successful careers.

The upcoming Trivia Fiesta hosted by KRCC promises an evening of fun, friendly competition, and community support, according to Executive Director Michelle Fayette. Fayette says the event will bring teams together to test their knowledge across a variety of categories while raising important funds to support KRCC’s ongoing programs and outreach efforts. With prizes, themed rounds, and plenty of opportunities for participants to engage, the Trivia Fiesta is designed to both entertain and strengthen connections within the community, all while advancing KRCC’s mission.