Local Love
LOCAL LOVE: A Magical Tour—A Guide to the Best Holiday Light Displays and Events in Southeast Missouri
The arrival of the holidays transforms Southeast Missouri. The crisp air, the historic architecture and the sense of community combine to create a truly magical time of year. This season is a wonderful opportunity to slow down, unplug and reconnect with family and friends. Don’t let the holiday rush steal your energy and drive. Instead,…
Read MoreLOVE LOCAL: The SEMO District Fair: Where Cape Comes Together
Every September, Arena Park transforms into eight days of engines, livestock, neon lights and the kind of small-town magic you can smell (kettle corn), hear (tractor pulls) and feel (the thump of the grandstand). In its current form, the SEMO District Fair runs September 6–13, 2025, with the beloved parade stepping off Saturday, September 6…
Read MoreLOCAL LOVE | Discovering Kentucky Lake: A Weekend Escape for Health and Adventure
Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, where the rolling landscapes of Kentucky meet the picturesque terrains of Tennessee, and the world starts to get a bit more southern, lies a wonderful piece of natural and engineering history that beckons adventurers and relaxation seekers alike in the present day: Kentucky Lake. This vast expanse of…
Read MoreLOCAL LOVE | The Broadway Revitalization of Cape Girardeau
I came to Cape Girardeau 25 years ago, back when the bridge was the Old Bridge, a thing made of steel and nightmare, and you turned right on Sprigg, just before Don’s Store 24, to head North to campus. Moving up North Sprigg, you saw the remains of what was, the history of an area…
Read MoreLOCAL LOVE | TrueQue: A Taste of Cape Girardeau’s Soul
You pull up to two unassuming portable buildings on Good Hope St. in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. To the south is the beautiful and historic River Campus in the shadow of the Emerson Bridge. To your west is a street that was once packed with businesses, bars, restaurants—massive two-story brick buildings, some of which have fallen…
Read MoreLOCAL LOVE | Discovering Hot Springs, Arkansas: A Treasure Trove of Natural Wonders and Historic Charm
Nestled in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a destination that promises a blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and historical intrigue. This picturesque city, famous for its thermal waters, offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature, delve into the rich tapestry of American history, and enjoy some unique attractions. …
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