January 2026

Apply online for MDC spring managed turkey hunts

MO State News, News /

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds hunters that Missouri youth, archery, and firearms turkey hunters can apply online for 2026 spring turkey managed hunts during February at mdc.mo.gov/springturkeyhunts Managed hunt details and application procedures are outlined on the webpage. Drawing results will be posted starting March 15. Spring turkey hunting opens […]

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Blood donations needed after winter storm impacts blood drives

Featured News, News, Regional News /

ST. LOUIS, MO – The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage as winter weather further impacts the ability to rebuild the blood supply. Individuals who may be eligible are urged to give blood and platelets as soon as it is safe for them to travel to help ensure lifesaving medical procedures are

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Break out of MDC nature escape rooms Feb. 28

News, Regional News /

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Families and adults are invited to test their puzzle solving skills at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC)’s Cape Girardeau Nature Center on Saturday, Feb. 28. A nature-themed escape room will require participants to crack codes, decipher animal clues, unlock hidden habitats, and solve hands-on nature challenges.   Earlier timeslots are reserved

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Call for Invasive Plant Action Awards nominations

MO State News, News /

JEFFERSON CITY—As public awareness grows about the harmful effects of invasive plants, the Missouri Invasive Plant Council (MoIP) seeks to recognize individuals and groups performing outstanding work detecting and controlling invasive plant species in Missouri with its Invasive Plant Action Award Program. MoIP is accepting award nominations now through April 30, 2026.   Nomination categories

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Former kindergarten teacher admits possessing child pornography

News, Regional News /

CAPE GIRARDEAU – A former Farmington, Missouri kindergarten teacher on Wednesday admitted possessing and sharing child sexual abuse material. Erika L. Morton, 37, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Cape Girardeau to one count of possession of child pornography. She admitted sending child sexual abuse material (CSAM) via the Kik Messenger app. In February

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Illinois Conservation Foundation is accepting applications for 2026 Conservation Achievement Scholarships

Ill State News, News /

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Conservation Foundation is accepting applications for its 2026 Conservation Achievement Scholarships, which will award up to four one-time scholarships of $2,000 each to Illinois high school seniors committed to conserving the state’s natural resources.   The scholarships recognize students who have demonstrated sustained, voluntary dedication to preserving, protecting, enhancing or promoting Illinois’

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Join MDC for webcast on Wild Turkey Habitat Help on Feb. 25

MO State News, News /

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Want more wild turkeys on your land? Habitat is key. Join the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) for a free Wild Webcast on Wild Turkey Habitat Help on Wednesday, Feb. 25, from noon to 1 p.m.   MDC Turkey Biologist Nick Oakley and MDC Private Land Conservationist Meagan Duffee-Yates will discuss creating

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McKendree University announces new agribusiness degree beginning Fall 2026

News, Randolph County News /

by Tina Napper LEBANON, IL – McKendree University announced today the launch of a new Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Agribusiness, beginning Fall 2026. The program, housed within McKendree’s School of Business, is designed to prepare students for leadership roles across the agricultural sector by combining a strong business foundation with agricultural expertise.   Delivered

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Red Bud CTE Ribbon Cutting and Open House slated

Featured News, News, Randolph County News /

RED BUD – Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) invites prospective students, parents, and community members to attend an Open House on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 10:0am-6pm at the Red Bud Career & Technical Education Facility (CTE).   The open house will showcase hands-on, workforce-focused programs designed to prepare students for in-demand careers in skilled trades. Attendees will have the

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R-II teachers awarded CHEER Grants through MNEA-Retired

Featured News, News, Ste. Genevieve News /

STE. GENEVIEVE – Five Ste. Genevieve County R-II teachers have been awarded $300 CHEER grants through MNEA-Retired, supporting classroom materials that enhance instruction and student learning.         The 2026 CHEER grant recipients are:   Emily Geisner, first-grade teacher at Bloomsdale Elementary Whitney Hilbert, special education teacher at Ste. Genevieve Elementary John Mooney,

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