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July 18.2025
3 Minutes Read

Perryville's Tornado Recovery: Community Feedback Shapes Future School Plans

Abstract sun symbolizing Perryville tornado recovery, vibrant design.

Perryville's Tornado Recovery Update: Community in Focus

Perryville, a resilient community in Missouri, is actively engaging its residents as it navigates the recovery from the devastating tornado that struck on March 14. During a public meeting at the Robinson Event Center, Perry County School District 32 laid out the roadmap for recovery and invited community feedback on the future of Perryville High School.

Moving Forward from Disaster

The meeting featured insights from Mr. Steven Telscher of Sapp Design Architects, who detailed both completed and ongoing recovery projects across the campus, providing hope and clarity amid the challenges following the tornado. Notable projects include critical repairs to the roofs of multiple educational facilities, HVAC replacements, and enhancements like a new grass field.

Innovative Temporary Solutions for Students

As students prepare to return to the classroom on August 20, District 32 is not just focused on repairs; they're innovating with temporary classrooms designed to meet the immediate educational needs. These classrooms will feature:

  • A large enclosed learning expo with space for 22 classrooms
  • Dedicated science labs for high-level science courses
  • A fitness center including state-of-the-art weight room and locker facilities
  • Specialized spaces for band and choir activities

These solutions demonstrate a commitment to maintaining educational standards, even in the face of adversity.

Community Engagement: Shaping the Future

Understanding the importance of public input, District 32’s leaders are encouraging residents to share their vision for rebuilding what has been lost. Three primary approaches to the high school reconstruction have been suggested:

  1. Renovate the existing structure
  2. Renovate and expand
  3. Construct an entirely new high school

Mr. Telscher emphasized this conversation extends beyond immediate needs, inviting residents to consider the educational landscape for the next 15 to 20 years. “This school can be whatever you want it to be,” he stated, highlighting the community’s collaborative role in this process.

Assessing Long-Term Impacts: Survey Participation is Key

To ensure that all voices are heard, the District has rolled out an online survey, urging community members to share their preferences on school facilities and improvement priorities. The survey, available until July 29, includes a unique question designed to provoke thoughtful responses, steering the conversation toward collective aspirations.

Perryville’s Commitment to Community Resilience

The efforts undertaken in Perryville's recovery not only signify restoration but also an opportunity for the community to reassess and redefine what education can look like in the future. Residents are encouraged to participate actively, filling out surveys or engaging in conversation with school officials to ensure that the future rebuild truly reflects the needs and desires of the community.

The Road Ahead: A Community-Oriented Approach

Perryville is at a crossroads, with decisions being made today impacting generations to come. This moment of recovery reveals the perseverance of its residents and their commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure.

Engagement is essential, so if you are a St. Louis resident interested in what lies ahead, take a moment to share your thoughts through the online survey and help shape the future of Perryville High School. Let's build an educational framework that supports not just current students, but future generations as well.

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01.16.2026

Chester School District Meeting: Why St. Louis Residents Should Attend

Update Chester School District Meeting: A Community Hub for Change Tonight, Chester residents will gather to discuss the future trajectory of their schools at the Chester School District Board of Education meeting, followed by an important bond hearing. Scheduled for January 15, 2026, the event, which will start at 7 p.m. at the Chester Early Childhood Center, presents an opportunity for community members to air concerns, discuss plans, and connect with the future of education in their area. What’s on the Agenda? Key Decisions Ahead! The meeting's agenda is packed, starting with the typical formalities of roll-call and the pledge of allegiance. However, the focus sharpens at 7:00 p.m. for a pivotal bond hearing, where the board will discuss the intent to issue bonds amounting to $1,550,000 for Working Cash Fund purposes and an additional $4,750,000 for School Fire Prevention and Safety initiatives. These funds could play a critical role in enhancing safety and operational efficiency within the schools, a point that should resonate with parents and stakeholders alike. Building Strong Foundations: Community Voices Matter One critical aspect of the meeting is the opportunity for public comment, wherein each participant has up to five minutes to voice their opinions. Open meetings like these are essential in the democratic process, allowing community members to inform and influence decisions. It serves as a reminder that education is not just about curriculum and facilities; it is about building relationships and ensuring that every voice is heard within the community. Financial Commitments: A Closer Look at Investments Among the key decisions tonight, the board will also review several cash disbursements, including bills and payroll, and potentially approve significant infrastructure projects, such as tuckpointing and window replacements at Chester High School funded partially through a School Maintenance Project Grant. This proactive maintenance is crucial, not just for the aesthetics but also for providing a safe and conducive learning environment. Educational Partnerships: Expanding Horizons Through Dual Credit Programs Another exciting agenda item is the approval of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for dual credit agreements with Southern Illinois University. This partnership seeks to create pathways for high school students to receive college credit and gain early insight into higher education. Initiatives like these can elevate educational standards as well as prospects for Chester’s youth, highlighting an ongoing effort to bridge the gap between high school and postsecondary education. Call to Action: Your Voice is Crucial For St. Louis residents and those within the Chester community, participating in meetings like these can shape the future—of not just schools, but the very fabric of the community. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or student, your input can make a difference. Attend tonight to be part of the discussions that influence your local education system. Conclusion: A Future of Engagement and Education As the Chester School District Board of Education prepares to gather this evening, the importance of community involvement becomes clear. From financial responsibilities to educational opportunities like dual credit programs, the decisions made in these meetings significantly affect the growth and stability of Chester’s education system. It’s not just an agenda; it’s the future of their children’s education at stake. So be there, bring your voice, and ensure that Chester’s educational journey is headed in the right direction.

01.15.2026

Chester's Beautification Commission Meeting: What St. Louis Residents Should Know

Update Exciting Developments in Chester's Beautification and Tourism Scene Chester, Illinois, is buzzing with initiatives aimed at enhancing local tourism and beautifying the community, as outlined in the recent agenda for the Chester Beautification/Tourism Commission meeting taking place today. With an emphasis on new projects and local engagement, the commission seeks to empower residents while attracting visitors to the area. Key Agenda Highlights The meeting is set to begin with the customary Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the approval of previous meeting minutes. This foundational step emphasizes the importance of transparency and continuity in ongoing community efforts. One of the primary focuses of this meeting is the treasurer's report presented by Brenda Owen, which will provide crucial insights into funding and expenditure related to ongoing and new beautification projects. Financial clarity is essential, as these resources directly impact Chester’s tourism potential. The Role of Community Members in Beautification Efforts New member Anne Ohlau will be welcomed to the commission, showcasing how community involvement is vital for the commission's growth and effectiveness. Notably, the Beautiful Home Award, managed by JoAnn Simmons and Linda Rader, continues to motivate residents by recognizing efforts that contribute to Chester's charm. Enhancing Recognizable Local Landmarks Residents can look forward to updates on the Welcome Center and the ongoing Riverfront Improvement project from JoAnn Simmons. These projects aim to elevate Chester's profile as a quaint destination, particularly with the upcoming National Popeye the Sailorman Day celebration on January 17, commemorating Chester's famous character and its deep-rooted connections to local culture. Chester's rich history is coupled with efforts to attract local tourism from nearby hubs like St. Louis and Springfield. The penny machine update will attract guests to the Welcome Center, allowing them to take home a piece of Chester's unique heritage. These small yet impactful attractions are essential not only for local pride but also for boosting the city's economy through tourism, a critical factor for communities in Illinois. Looking Forward: Future Activities and Community Engagement The agenda also mentions plans for a Big Boy Steam locomotive's return journey from Chicago to Omaha, generating excitement among both locals and tourists. Additionally, the Chamber Horse Races scheduled for February 20th are expected to draw in crowds, emphasizing Chester's gateway position in Missouri’s tourist circuit. During this meeting, the commission will discuss future activities that not only revolve around beautification but also include maximizing the area's recreational potential—an essential aspect for anyone looking to enjoy things to do in Missouri. Public Participation: A Call to Action for Residents Residents are encouraged to seize the opportunity to partake in discussions surrounding old and new business during the meeting, particularly the discussions on the current initiatives and how they can contribute. As local ambience transforms, Chester can further assert its role as a premier location for heritage tourism, intertwined with the warm community spirit residents cherish. As we witness Chester take strides toward improvement, the turning of the year marks not just the beginning of a new timeline but a reinvigoration of the spirit and engagement amongst its citizens. So, what role can you play in Chester's beautification efforts? Get involved—attend meetings, participate in local events, and help showcase what makes Chester a beautiful place to live and visit.

01.14.2026

Join the 20th Cape Girardeau Polar Plunge: Dive for a Cause

Update A Unique Event to Support Local Athletes The 20th Annual Cape Girardeau Polar Plunge is set for February 7, 2026, at Cape County Park North, inviting St. Louis residents and beyond to dive into frigid waters for a worthy cause. This beloved community event is not just about taking a plunge; it's a heartwarming display of bravery and camaraderie, as participants don costumes and bathing suits to immerse themselves in icy waters, all while raising funds for Special Olympics Missouri (SOMO). The Polar Plunge promises not only to raise awareness but also to rally support for athletes who train year-round and participate in competitive sports. Participation: A Splash for a Cause Open to anyone aged 10 and older, the event offers a fun and festive atmosphere with costume contests and lively music. Each participant is required to raise a minimum of $75, a small price to pay for the invaluable impact this initiative has on the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. In 2025, the Cape Girardeau Polar Plunge successfully raised over $54,000 for SOMO, and this year aims to break that record with a fundraising goal of $55,000. Collectively, Missouri hopes to surpass the impressive milestone of $1,000,000 from this series of statewide events. Community Engagement and Support One remarkable aspect of the Polar Plunge is the involvement of local athlete ambassadors. This year, three exceptional SOMO athletes—Lisa Berryhill, Lucas Blattel, and Daniel Fultz—are taking on the role of event promoters, embodying the spirit of determination and community support. “I plunge every year,” Berryhill said, “I love competing with my Special Olympics Missouri teammates, and I am very good at raising money for the things I love.” This speaks volumes about the connection fostered between the event and its participants; it's not just about the plunge, it's about creating bonds that last beyond the field of competition. Perks and Incentives for Plungers Registered plungers can expect an official Polar Plunge commemorative T-shirt, a meal after the plunge, and access to the much-anticipated Pre-Plunge Party. Attendance at the party is a fun opportunity for participants to mingle and celebrate their efforts while enjoying the excitement leading up to the plunge. For those eager to dive deeper into their fundraising, additional incentives await as plungers achieve higher donation goals, cultivating a competitive yet supportive environment. Make a Difference—Join the Fun! As a participant, plungers can proudly wear their accomplishment, knowing they inspired and supported not only their fellow competitors but also local athletes striving for excellence in the Special Olympics. Various awards will be handed out to top fundraisers, top fundraising groups, and top schools, creating an environment of friendly rivalry that draws communities together. The Bigger Picture: Supporting Special Olympics Missouri While the Polar Plunge is certainly a thrill, it’s also a reminder of the larger cause at play. Special Olympics Missouri provides year-round training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities. By participating in events like the Polar Plunge, not only do participants enjoy a unique experience, but they also step up to empower and change lives. Plan Your Visit: Things to Do in St. Louis For those traveling from St. Louis, this event offers a perfect mix of adventure and community engagement. While you're in the region, consider exploring other activities and attractions—there’s no shortage of things to do in St. Louis! From the Gateway Arch to exciting sports events, you can combine your philanthropic efforts with a fun-filled trip. Get Ready to Plunge! If you’re looking to make a difference and embrace winter with an exhilarating experience, consider joining the 20th Annual Cape Girardeau Polar Plunge. With costumes encouraged, and examples set by local heroes, you can dive headfirst into something truly transformative while showing your support. Registration opens at 10 a.m. on the day of the event, so arrive early to secure your spot. Don’t miss the chance to plunge for a cause that’s making a real difference in the lives of many!

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