Real Talk with Riggin

The STF Foundation is now accepting applications for its Healthcare Scholarship program, offering financial support to students pursuing careers in the medical field. Donor Relations and Communications Specialist Donna Crowell says the scholarships are designed to help address healthcare workforce needs by assisting aspiring nurses, technicians, therapists, and other medical professionals as they work toward their degrees. The program supports students who demonstrate academic commitment, compassion for patient care, and a desire to serve their communities. Crowell encourages eligible students to apply before the deadline, noting that the foundation remains committed to investing in the next generation of healthcare providers.

A special evening of gratitude and community fellowship is planned as residents gather for a Free Community Dinner to Honor Shirley Raines. Coordinator Rita Savage says the event is a way to recognize Raines for her dedication, kindness, and the positive impact she has made in the community over the years. Friends, neighbors, and families are invited to attend the dinner, share a meal, and celebrate Raines’ contributions while enjoying time together. Savage says the event is meant to show appreciation and bring the community together to honor someone who has given so much to others. 🍽️👏

Talking to kids about war—especially a potential conflict involving Iran—can be challenging for parents, but psychiatrist Dr. Carole Lieberman, widely known as the “Terrorist Therapist,” says honesty and reassurance are key. A board-certified psychiatrist who has spent decades helping families cope with fears related to terrorism and global conflict, Lieberman advises parents to explain events in simple, age-appropriate language while reassuring children that adults and authorities are working to keep them safe. She encourages parents to limit children’s exposure to frightening news coverage, invite questions, and allow kids to express their feelings rather than dismissing their fears. Drawing from guidance in her book Lions and Tigers and Terrorists, Oh My!, Lieberman emphasizes that conversations should focus on building resilience—helping children understand what’s happening in the world without overwhelming them, while reinforcing that they are protected and supported by the adults around them

Missouri small business owners are feeling a renewed sense of optimism heading into the coming months, according to the latest update from the National Federation of Independent Business. Missouri State Director Brad Jones says many entrepreneurs across the state are cautiously encouraged by improving economic signals, though concerns about inflation, labor shortages, and regulatory pressures remain top of mind. Jones explains how small businesses are adapting to ongoing challenges while continuing to invest in their communities and workforce. He also highlights the key issues Missouri’s job creators want policymakers to address to sustain growth and strengthen the state’s small business climate.

Social Worker Erin Doughten with Lutheran Family and Children's Services of Missouri highlights the growing impact the organization is having across the state, providing more than 65,000 support interactions for Missouri families over the past year. Through counseling, parenting education, adoption services, and crisis support, LFCS works to strengthen families and provide hope during difficult times. Doughten explains that each interaction represents an opportunity to connect someone with resources, encouragement, and practical help, ensuring children and families across Missouri have the support they need to navigate challenges and build healthier futures.

Friend of the Parks Day is a chance for the community to come together and celebrate the parks that make our area special. Kaed Horrell, Parks Division Manager with the Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department, says the event highlights the importance of local parks while encouraging residents to get involved in keeping them beautiful and welcoming for everyone. From volunteer opportunities to family-friendly activities, Friend of the Parks Day brings neighbors together to support the green spaces that provide recreation, relaxation, and connection throughout Cape Girardeau. Horrell says the day also serves as a reminder that community support plays a key role in maintaining and improving parks for future generations. 🌳🏞️🤝

Author and CEO of Classical Conversations, Robert Bartons, says America’s education system has been steadily influenced by ideas rooted in Karl Marx’s worldview, shaping how history, culture, and even personal identity are taught in classrooms. In his book Woke and Weaponized: How Karl Marx Won the Battle for American Education, and How We Can Win It Back, Bartons argues that these ideological shifts have led schools away from traditional academic foundations and toward political activism. He believes parents and communities can reclaim education by returning to classical learning, emphasizing critical thinking, historical literacy, and the foundational principles that once defined American education. Bartons says understanding how these ideas took hold is the first step toward restoring a system that prioritizes truth, character, and intellectual freedom.

A new vote in Congress over war powers is raising questions about the limits of presidential authority and the role lawmakers play in directing U.S. military action. Senior Legal Fellow and legal expert at Advancing American Freedom, Hans Von Spakovsky, says many critics are misinterpreting how the Constitution divides war-making responsibilities between Congress and the executive branch. He explains why the latest effort on Capitol Hill may misunderstand long-standing legal precedent and historical practice, and discusses what the debate could mean for future military decisions, presidential authority, and the balance of power in Washington.

As spring storm season ramps up across Missouri, it’s a good time for families to review and update their home emergency kits. Ameren Missouri spokesman Brian Bertsch says severe weather, including thunderstorms and possible power outages, can arrive quickly, making preparation essential. Bertsch recommends keeping an emergency kit stocked with fresh batteries, flashlights, bottled water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, medications, and a battery-powered weather radio. He also encourages residents to check expiration dates on supplies and replace items as needed so households are ready if severe weather impacts power or travel in the area.

The SEMO Food Bank is launching a major effort to ensure every volunteer opportunity is filled as it works to meet growing needs across Southeast Missouri. Communications Manager Heather Collier says the goal is to fill 100 percent of volunteer shifts, helping the organization keep food moving to families, seniors, and children facing hunger in the region. Volunteers play a critical role in sorting donations, packing food boxes, and supporting distribution events, and Collier says even a few hours of service can make a meaningful difference in the fight against food insecurity. The SEMO Food Bank is encouraging individuals, groups, churches, and businesses to step up and help ensure no shift goes unfilled as the organization continues its mission of feeding neighbors in need.