Local COVID-19 Updates / Statements And Announcements From Local Businesses & State Departments
Missouri's COVID-19 Chat Portal
Toll Free Hotline: 887-435-8411
MO Stops COVID Information Site
>>>October 2021
>Third Dose COVID-19 Booster shots are now available for certain Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine recipients who completed their initial series at least 6 months ago. Those individuals must be:
65 years and older
18+ who have underlying medical conditions
18+ who work in high-risk settings, and
18+ who live in high-risk settings
Find available COVID-19 vaccination sites here.
>>>Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021
- Anyone, age 12 and up, is now eligible for vaccination
- The FDA approved Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for the Pfizer, Moderna and Janssen Vaccines.
- Pfizer's vaccine is authorized for those age 12 and up.
- Vaccines from Moderna and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) are authorized for those aged 18 and up.
- The federal government is providing COVID-19 vaccines free-of-charge to all people living in the United States, regardless of their immigration or health insurance status.
- You may bill private insurance, Medicaid or Medicare, however and individual can not incur a fee for their vaccination.
>>>Thursday, Apr. 15, 2021
>The Saint Francis Healthcare System will be holding more COVID-19 vaccination clinics at these locations:
- Wednesday, April 21 at Saint Francis Medical Center, Entrance 2, 211 Saint Francis Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO
- Thursday, April 22 at Farmington Physician Associates, 515 Maple Valley Drive, Farmington, MO
- Friday, April 23 at Saint Francis Health Center – Poplar Bluff, 225 Physicians Park Drive, Poplar Bluff, MO
Appointments are required. To schedule, you may call 573-381-5958.
>>>Wednesday, Apr. 14, 2021
>SoutheastHEALTH will allow walk-ins Friday, April 16, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine clinic in Cape, at the Drury Plaza Conference Center. No appointment is required.
>>>Thursday, Apr. 8, 2021
>SoutheastHEALTH will allow walk-ins, April 9, from 9 a.m. – 2p.m. at the COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine clinic in Jackson at the Civic Center on Deerwood Drive. No appointment is required.
>>>Tuesday, Apr. 6, 2021
>Saint Francis Healthcare System will be holding COVID-19 vaccination clinics in Cape Girardeau at Saint Francis Medical Center, Entrance 2, 211 Saint Francis Drive.
These dates are open for appointments:
- Friday, April 9
- Monday, April 12
- Tuesday, April 13
- Wednesday, April 14
Beginning Fri. Apr. 9, all Missourians are eligible to receive the vaccine. An appointment is required. To schedule, you may call 573-381-5958 or visit sfmc.net/vaccine.
>>>Thursday, Apr. 1, 2021
>On April 12th, the Cape Girardeau County Health Center is hosting a COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic from 9 AM - 4 PM at the Jackson Civic Center for those who are 18 and older. Appointments are required. To schedule an appointment, you can use this linkor call the Health Center at 573-335-7846. Any insurance information requested while using the link should be disregarded.
>>>Tuesday, Mar. 30, 2021
>The National Guard, Cape Girardeau County Health Center, and local partners will be at the Show-Me-Center from 9 AM – 6 PM on Wed. Mar. 31st. This clinic is for all those that received their first COVID-19 vaccine dose at the National Guard Clinic on Mar. 1st.
>>>Monday, Mar. 22, 2021
Saint Francis Healthcare System will be holding a COVID-19 vaccination clinic at Piedmont Physician Associates, located at 420 Piedmont Avenue, on Monday, March 29 from 9 to 11 am. An appointment is required. To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, you may call 573-381-5958.
>>>Wednesday, Mar. 17, 2021
>Saint Francis Healthcare System will be holding Phase 1B Tier 3 COVID-19 vaccination clinics at Saint Francis Medical Center, Entrance 2 at 211 Saint Francis Drive in Cape Girardeau on the following dates from 2-6 pm:
Friday, March 19
Wednesday, March 24
Thursday, March 25
Friday, March 26
An appointment is required. To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, you may visit www.sfmc.net/vaccine or call 573-381-5958. Read the entire announcement here.
>>>Tuesday, Mar. 16, 2021
>Vaccine Finder is an interactive map of registered COVID-19 vaccinators with information about the currently stocked vaccine, including the vaccine type.
These are the listed changes to Missouri COVID-19 Vaccine Phases and Tiers:
Missouri's state health director, Dr. Randal Williams has provided a revised Vaccination Tier Order.
This order modifies the original order in the following ways:
1. Changes the date of the order to 3/12/21
2. Rescinds the original order, and the library order.
3. Opens Phase 1B tier 3 on 3/15/21
4. Adds library staff to phase 2. (done by the 3/4/21 order)
5. Adds clergy visiting LTC or hospitals to 1A (website currently allows this by clarification)
6. Adds unpaid healthcare workers to 1A. (website currently allows this by clarification)
7. Adds Construction Sector to Phase 2
8. Construction Sector: Employees or contractors engaged in the construction or repair of buildings, infrastructure or industrial facilities.
9. Adds licensed foster parents to Phase 1B Tier 3. Childcare: Faculty and staff in a DHSS or DSS -licensed facility providing basic care to children. Foster parents, who are licensed with DSS.
>>>Monday, Mar. 15, 2021
>Saint Francis Healthcare System will be holding a Phase 1B-Tier 3 COVID-19 vaccination clinic in Poplar Bluff at the Black River Ambulatory Surgery Center, 219 Physicians Park Drive, Poplar Bluff, MO 63901, on Thursday, March 18 from 9 am to 3 pm.
An appointment is required. To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, call 573-381-5958.
>>>Monday, Mar. 8, 2021
>The Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center Board of Trustees held a special session on Mon. Mar. 8, to discuss the fate of the current face-covering order. In summary, the Board voted unanimously to rescind the face-covering order, effective immediately. Though wearing a face-covering is no longer required by an order, it is still strongly recommended by the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center Board of Trustees. To read more about the recommendations, you may visit the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center website.
>>>Tuesday, Mar. 2, 2021
>The COVID-19 testing event scheduled for March 3, 2021, at Arena Park has been canceled.>The Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center has a second dose Moderna clinic scheduled for Mar. 3 for those that have received their first dose of Moderna at one of our clinics prior to Feb. 6. Mar. 8 is the last scheduled 2nd dose clinic at this time. Appointments are required, and you can contact the Health Center at 573-335-7846 to schedule an appointment. keepcapestrong.com includes waitlists in Cape Girardeau County.
>>>Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2021
>Saint Francis Healthcare System will be holding COVID-19 vaccination clinics in Piedmont and Cape Girardeau on the following dates:
- Monday, March 1 from 1-6 pm at Piedmont Physician Associates, 420 Piedmont Avenue, Piedmont, Mo. 63957. An appointment is required. To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, call 573-381-5958. ?
- Tuesday, March 2 and Wednesday, March 3 from 8 am-5 pm at Saint Francis Medical Center, Entrance 2, 211 Saint Francis Drive, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63703. An appointment is required. To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, visit www.sfmc.net/vaccine or call 573-381-5958.
>>>Monday, Feb. 22, 2021
>The February 21, 2021, mass second dose Pfizer clinic with the Missouri National Guard was rescheduled for Saturday, February 27, 2021, at Cape Central High School. The clinic was rescheduled due to the delayed shipment of vaccine a result of the inclement weather this week. All appointment times remain the same. The clinic is for all those that received their first dose of Pfizer on January 29th. The best practice second shot window for Pfizer is 3-6 weeks after the first shot.
>>>Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2021
>The Fri. Feb. 19th mass second dose Pfizer clinic with the Missouri National Guard in Cape Girardeau has been canceled. The clinic has been rescheduled for Sun. Feb. 21, at the Show Me Center. All appointment times remain the same. Those who have already received the first vaccine dose are asked to bring their vaccination card with them to their appointment. This clinic is ONLY for those who received the Pfizer vaccine at the mass clinic on January 29, 2021. Neither Saint Francis Healthcare System nor SoutheastHEALTH have the second doses for this clinic. It is recommended that individuals receive their second Pfizer dose between 3-6 weeks the first dose.
>Due to inclement weather, SoutheastHEALTH is postponing all COVID-19 vaccine clinics, for both first and second doses, in Cape Girardeau, Perryville and Dexter for the rest of this week. Individuals enrolled in these clinics will be notified by email and/or phone to reschedule once dates and locations are determined.
>>>Monday, Feb. 15, 2021
>The COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic scheduled at Century Casino in Cape Girardeau for Tues. Feb. 16th has been cancelled due to inclement weather conditions, and is rescheduled for Feb. 23rd. Registrants may keep their appointment and use their current tickets on the rescheduled date. Find more details here.
>>>Friday, Feb. 6, 2021
>From the Cape Girardeau Co. Public Health Center:
Those who have already received the first Moderna Vaccine, should plan for a 28 day waiting period between the first and second shot, as stated in a recent press release by the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center. The announcement also mentions that those who are recieving the second shot will be contacted by email or phone for their first appointment and instructed on the scheduling process.
>Vaccine Wait-list Information:
-Saint Francis Hospital: Sign-up list
-Southeast Hospital: Sign-up list
-Broadway Pharmacy: Sign-up list
>The State of Missouri is currently working to vaccinate residents that fall under Phase 1A, Phase 1B - Tier 1, Phase 1B- Tier 2.
>>>Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021
>From a Saint Francis Hospital Press Release:
COVID Vaccine Phone Scam
January 20, 2021
Saint Francis Healthcare System has received reports of a COVID vaccine phone scam where an unidentified caller attempts to schedule a COVID vaccine at Saint Francis. The caller provides instructions for receiving the vaccine and asks for a social security number to schedule an appointment.
This is a scam. Although Saint Francis may call to schedule an appointment, they state that they will never ask for your complete social security number for scheduling.
If you believe you have received a scam phone call, please hang up and disregard. If you believe you gave confidential information to a scam caller, please visit https://identitytheft.gov/ to report.
The vaccine allocation received for this week has been exhausted and all vaccination appointments at Saint Francis are now taken. Saint Francis has requested an additional 10,000 vaccines for next week. They will update their website and Facebook page when they receive confirmation of the next shipment.
For more information, you may visit their COVID-19 page.
>>>Friday, Jan. 15, 2021
>From the Cape Girardeau Co. Health Department:
Missouri is currently in Phase 1A and Phase 1B: Tier 1, but it will depend on local vaccine availability. You may sign up for the waitlist to be informed of local clinics and how to schedule an appointment when you qualify. For more information about the Missouri Vaccination Plan and Phases, you may visit covidvaccine.mo.gov. Appointments will be required for all clinics.
>>>Friday, Dec. 18, 2020
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will close its Southeast Regional Offices in Cape Girardeau and Cape Girardeau Nature Center to the public beginning Monday, Dec. 21 amid rising COVID-19 concerns. There currently is no timeline on reopening the buildings, but staff will reassess at the beginning of 2021.
While the Southeast Regional Offices will be closed to general visitors, it will still be staffed. Visitors will only include employees from other office locations who cannot conduct business over the phone or email. Those with official business will need to notify the office in advance for an appointment by calling the front desk at (573) 290-5730. During this time, staff will be available by phone at (573) 290-5730 to assist the public with MDC-related requests.
The Cape Nature Center building will also close to visitors starting Monday, Dec. 21. However, the nature center’s trails and other outdoor areas will remain open. Outdoor and virtual programs will continue as planned. Participants of in-person, outdoor events will be required to wear face masks and social distance. Natural Events Calendar sales will be available by calling the nature center, paying over-the-phone, and arranging for contactless pick-up. For more information, call Cape Girardeau Nature Center at (573) 290-5218.
>>>Thursday, Dec. 10, 2020
From the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce:
While the CDC continues to recommend close contacts quarantine for 14 days, they have provided alternative quarantine periods based on local circumstances and resources. Yesterday, the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center announced their recommendation that any close contact that does not experience symptoms quarantine for at least 10 days from their last exposure to the infected individual.
To aide in determining when it is appropriate to welcome employees back into the work environment after being exposed or testing positive for COVID-19, the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center has created a guide for businesses to self-monitor and release employees back into the workforce.
Any questions can be directed to the Health Center at (573) 335-7846.
>>>Thursday, Nov. 19, 2020
>On Nov. 19, Gov. Mike Parson, along with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Director, Dr. Randall Williams, issued a Public Health Warning for the State of Missouri. The statement warned about slowing the spread of the virus. You may read the entire statement here.
>>>Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020
>The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services will perform free testing for coronavirus in Butler County on November 20.
This event will serve only Missouri residents. The test will be done by a nasal swab to determine if there is an active infection with the virus that causes COVID-19. Those planning to attend should allow 30 minutes for completion of testing upon arrival to the testing site.
The COVID-19 testing event will take place on Friday, November 20 from noon to 6 p.m. at Whitely Park in Poplar Bluff. Registration is required at health.mo.gov.
>>>Monday, Oct. 26, 2020
>According to the State, Missouri has seen significant increases in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations and can benefit from additional opportunities to identify new cases, especially for those who are asymptomatic.
HSS and DHSS will perform surge testing atvarious locations throughout the state at no charge to those tested. These new testing sites are part of national surge testing efforts, and will temporarily increase federal support to areas in Missouri where there have been recent increased levels of new cases and hospitalizations related to the ongoing outbreak.
These sites are also located in higher population areas that consistently have had a high demand during state-hosted community testing events.
One site in the area is in Cape Girardeau.
Testing will begin October 29th, and continue each Thursday, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at Arena Park - 410 Kiwanis Drive.
Pre-registration and more information can be found at health.mo.gov.
>>>Monday, Oct. 12, 2020
>Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center Provides Tips For a Safe and Fun Halloween:
Even in a pandemic, you can be safe and have fun on Halloween. Traditional Halloween activities like trick-or- treating and going to parties can increase your chances of catching and spreading COVID-19. New activities can be exciting and spooky too! Watch scary movies online with friends, host a socially distancing costume parade, or create a Halloween candy hunt are all fun and safe ways to celebrate.
Check out One for All Missouri for dos and don’ts:
and the CDC has safety tips if you are planning to host a party:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html#halloween.
The following guidelines should still be followed even on holidays:
• Stay at least 6 feet away from individuals not in your household
• Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth mask when in public
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Stay home if you are sick.
>>>Friday, Sept. 18, 2020
>On Friday, September 25, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is holding a community testing event at Arena Park from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. The event is in partnership with the Missouri National Guard and local health departments. Registration is required.
>As of Sept. 18, 2020 the City of Cape Girardeau Municipal Court will be closed to the public until at least after Oct. 3. The court will be mailing out new summons with court dates to everyone who had been scheduled during this time frame. If anyone needs to update their address, they should contact the Court Office. For more information, visit cityofcapegirardeau.org.
Contact information:
City of Cape Girardeau Municipal Court
2536 Maria Louise Lane (Closed to Public)
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
573-339-6323 Phone
573-339-6308 Fax
jstafford@cityofcape.org
>>>Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020
>On Tuesday, September 15, the St. Francois County Health Center issued an emergency face covering order. The decision was made after a special meeting and vote with the St. Francois County Health Center Board of Trustees in Farmington.
>>> Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020
>Starting Tuesday, September 8, EBO MD will offer rapid COVID-19 testing with 24-hour results. The RT-PCR diagnostic test uses a minimally invasive nasal swab to detect an active coronavirus infection. The antibody test uses a blood sample to identify exposure to the virus, with or without symptoms. Ninety-five percent of results are reported within 24 hours with the remaining results reported within 48 hours. The test is available for $175 to EBO MD member patients and nonmembers alike and is not billable to insurance. This includes results from both the diagnostic and antibody tests.
Tests will be performed at the Cape Girardeau location only (1417 N. Mount Auburn Road, upper level), at this time. For more information or to schedule a test, call 573-334-6826.
>>>Tuesday, July 14, 2020
>Another area-wide free COVID-19 testing event will be available July 17 and 18. It will be held at Arena Park in Cape Girardeau July 17, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and July 18, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. DHSS is partnering with the Missouri National Guard, local health departments, health care providers to offer these events, and different communities at different times throughout the state. This is a PCR test done by a nasopharyngeal swab to determine if there is an active infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Participants will be required to register at the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services website.
>>>Monday, July 13, 2020
>From the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center:
The Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center has issued an Emergency Face Covering Order effective Monday, July 13, 2020. To reduce the spread of COVID-19, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people wear cloth face coverings in public settings when around people outside of their household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
Wearing a cloth face covering will help protect people around you, including those at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and workers who frequently come into close contact with other people (e.g., in stores and restaurants). The cloth face coverings recommended in the Order are not surgical masks or respirators.
Exemptions have been allowed for those individuals that have medical reasons that may prevent them from wearing a face covering. Some exemptions include: children younger than 2 years old; anyone who has trouble breathing; and anyone who is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the cloth face covering without assistance.
A full list of guidelines can be found here.
>>>Thursday, July 9, 2020
> CITY OF CAPE GIRARDEAU: At of the start of business on Friday, July 10, visitors to Cape city facilities are required to wear a mask or face covering inside City-operated buildings. These include: City Hall, Parks & Recreation buildings, Osage Centre, A.C. Brase Arena, Shawnee Park Center, 4H Exhibit Hall, Sportsplex, Jaycee Golf Course Pro Shop, Cape Girardeau Regional Airport, United Flights, Fire Department (closed to visitors as of July 7), Police Department , Public Works Department facilities (by appointment only as of July 13), and Municipal Court. Masks will not be required at outdoor facilities, nor required for customers engaged in fitness activities inside the recreation facilities. Masks are not required nor allowed in the water, but highly recommended when entering aquatic facilities at Central Pool and Cape Splash. They ask that all visitors to their facilities be kind to staff who are working to make our facilities a safer environment.
>CAPE GIRARDEAU MUNICIPAL BAND: The Cape Girardeau Municipal Band held their last summer concert Wednesday, July 8, ending their season due a rapid rise in COVID-19 positive cases in Cape Girardeau County. The Summer Concert Series was originally scheduled for every Wednesday in July. For more information, please contact the Cape Parks and Recreation Department at (573) 339-6340 or by email at parks@cityofcape.org.
>OLD TOWN CAPE TUNES AT TWILIGHT: Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases recently in the local area, Old Town Cape has cancelled the Fall series of Tunes At Twilight. The Old Town Cape Board of Directors and team feel that hosting the series would not be in the best interest of the Cape Girardeau community, musical artists, or facilitators. Old Town Cape thanks the community for their support of the series, and looks forward to the spring 2021 season.
>>>Wednesday, July 8, 2020
>On July 11 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday, July 12, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the Missouri National Guard are conducting a drive-through COVID-19 community testing event for Missouri residents at the Perryville City Park. You may register at health.mo.gov/communitytest or by calling the state hotline at 877-435-8411.
>>>Friday, July 3, 2020
>From the City of Cape Girardeau:
Due to the rapid rise in COVID positive cases in Cape Girardeau County, City Leadership in consultation with the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center have determined that postponing the fireworks show and Spirit of America Award Presentation at Arena Park to a later date is the most prudent course of action in order to keep the public safe and mitigate community spread of the virus.
The Public Health Department strongly encourages the public to continue to be diligent about social distancing and wearing a mask in public. For further information individuals may contact the Cape Girardeau Public Health Center at 573.450.9546 or the City of Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department at 573.339.6340 during normal business hours.
>From the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Department:
While performing contact tracing on a positive case reported to the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center, it was determined that individuals who attended events at the Cape Splash Family Aquatic Center from June 25 through July 2, may have been exposed to COVID-19.
They strongly encourage anyone who was at Cape Splash during this time period to closely monitor themselves for signs and symptoms due to potential exposure. They also strongly encourage the use of facemasks or coverings by all those potentially exposed when outside of their home in public and while at work.
If the individual develops any symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19, to self-isolate immediately and contact your primary care physician to determine the need for testing.
They are working closely with the Parks and Recreation Department, and feel confident that they are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their patrons.
>>>Thursday, July 2, 2020
>From the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Department:
While performing contact tracing on a positive case reported to the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center, it was determined that individuals who visited D'ladium's Sports Bar from June 25 to July 2, may have been exposed to COVID-19.
They strongly encourage anyone who was at the D'ladium's Sports Bar during this time period to closely monitor themselves for signs and symptoms due to potential exposure. They also strongly encourage the use of facemasks or coverings by all those potentially exposed when outside of their home in public and while at work.
If any symptoms develop that are consistent with COVID-19, those individuals are asked to self-isolate immediately and contact a primary care physician to determine the need for testing.
For more information, you may contact the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center at 573-450-9546.
>>>Saturday, June 27, 2020
>From the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Department:
While performing contact tracing on a positive case reported to the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center, it was determined that individuals that attended activities at the Cape Girardeau Sportsplex on the following dates at the specified times may have been exposed.
• June 23 10:15am – 12:15pm
• June 24 10:15am – 12:15pm
• June 25 8:15am – 12:00pm
• June 26 7:30am – 11:45am
• June 27- Further exposure may have occurred at the Shawnee Sports Complex on June 23, 5:30 pm – 10:45 pm.
Find the full press release here.
>>>Friday, June 12, 2020
>Friday, June 12, the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Department issued a public health proclamation, in response to the lifting of statewide restrictions that have been in place during the COVID-19 outbreak as announced by Governor Parsons on June 11th. Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center reminds the public that the Public Health Emergency in Cape Girardeau County, as declared on March 27, 2020, remains in effect.
COVID-19 is in the community with widespread community transmission; and does not have any proven treatment or vaccine to mitigate the morbidity or mortality of the disease;
and all residents and businesses should:
1. Continue to follow social distancing guidelines, maintaining a distance of least six feet
2. Continue implementation of personal protective measures, such as staying at home when ill, washing hands frequently, and wearing a mask when in public or at work
3. Avoid all non-essential travel or travel to areas that have been affected by COVID-19; and
4. Avoid mass gatherings where social distancing cannot be maintained
All businesses should follow OSHA rules, regulations, and guidelines to protect workers from COVID-19.
More information is available on the Cape County Public Health Department website.
>>>Thursday, June 11, 2020
>From the Office of Missouri Governor Mike Parson:
Pending expiration of Phase 1 on June 15, Governor Mike Parson announced today that Missouri will fully reopen and enter Phase 2 of its “Show Me Strong Recovery” Plan on Tuesday, June 16, 2020.
During Phase 2, there will be no statewide health order. All statewide restrictions will be lifted, though local officials will still have the authority to put further rules, regulations, or ordinances in place. The decision to reopen was dependent on the four essential “Show Me Strong Recovery” pillars: Expanding testing capacity and volume in the state; Expanding reserves of PPE by opening public and private supply chains; Continuing to monitor and, if necessary, expand hospital and health care system capacity; and Improving the ability to predict potential outbreaks using Missouri's public health data.
Weekly testing in Missouri has increased more than 220 percent from approximately 16,000 test encounters the week of April 20 to over 53,000 encounters the week of May 25. Over the past two weeks, the state has averaged more than 10,000 tests per weekday.
In preparation of Phase 2, Governor Parson signed Executive Order 20-12 extending the state of emergency in Missouri through December 30, 2020, in order to utilize federal CARES Act funding. Extending the state of emergency will also allow continued flexibility in deploying resources around the state as Missouri reopens and recovers from COVID-19. Read the full statement here.
>>>Wednesday, June 10, 2020
>The Missouri Department of Conservation has extended cancellations of their in-person education and demonstration programs to June 30, and will continue to offer more programs online. To find out more, or register for these events, you may visit this link.
>>>Thursday, June 4, 2020
>As Cape Girardeau businesses begin to expand public services, please keep in mind that businesses are open, but the coronavirus pandemic is not over. Here are ways to conduct business with the City online instead of in-person: Water/sewer/trash/recycling bill can be paid by either autopay, online, or by calling Customer Service at 573-339-6322. Use the department contact form to send a message or find phone numbers. Report a problem online. Contact your City Council representative through our website, and when visiting facilities please wear a mask and follow any posted directions for entry to ensure proper social distancing. Click here for more information.
>>>Friday, May 29, 2020
POLLING PLACE CHANGES FOR JUNE 2, 2020 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION
This notice is to advise voters of the Brown Owl Precinct (Missouri Conservation Department Office) and voters of 4C Precinct (St. Andrew Lutheran Church Cape Girardeau) of the following Polling Place Changes for the June 2, 2020 General Municipal Election, originally scheduled for April 7, 2020 and postponed by Order of the Governor due to COVID-19.
Brown Owl – Conservation Department polling place has been moved to: County Administration Building, 1 Barton Square (1st Floor Common Room) Jackson, MO. Voters may also choose to vote at: Cape Girardeau Central Poll – County Clerk Satellite Office, 2311 Bloomfield Road, Suite 102, Cape Girardeau, MO. All households within the Brown Owl precinct have been mailed a letter stating the change.
Precinct 4C St. Andrew Lutheran Church – voting will be moved from the Fellowship Hall in the main part of the church to the Activity Center located directly behind the church. Voters will enter the parking lot the usual way and signage will be displayed directing voters to the Activity Center entrance. Signage will notate Accessible Parking which is available in the lower parking lot.
Questions or comments: Voters can visit our website at www.capecountyelections.com or contact our office at (573)243-3547.
>>>Tuesday, May 26, 2020
>The Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services (DHSS) and Missouri National Guard will perform drive-through testing for SARs-CoV-2 in Cape Girardeau County on June 5th, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Arena Park, 410 Kiwanis Drive in Cape Girardeau. The tests are open to all residents of Missouri who register online; participants do not have to have COVID-19 symptoms to be eligible for the test. Online registration is required through DHSS at health.mo.gov/communitytest or by calling the state hotline at 877-435-8411. Registrants will be given a 15-minute appointment block. Upon arrival at the drive-through testing site, they will be asked questions, including about symptoms they may or may not have. Members of the National Guard will collect the nasopharyngeal specimen and it will be sent to a Quest Diagnostics lab for processing. Patients will be notified of their results by the Department of Health and Senior Services within 7 days.
>All Cape Girardeau Contra Dance events in 2020 have been cancelled due to safety concerns with COVID-19. They hope to renew the dance series after an effective vaccine or theraputic drug has been made widely available.
>>>Wednesday, May 20, 2020
>The USDA will soon begin taking applications for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. As part of applying for the program, you’ll need to contact the Farm Service Agency county office at your local USDA Service Center to schedule an appointment. Find your office at farmers.gov/cfap.
Your local FSA staff will work with you to apply for the program, and through forms asking for this type of information: Personal contact information including your Tax Identification Number; farming operating structure; Adjusted Gross Income to ensure eligibility; and direct deposit to enable payment processing.
Please do not send any personal information to USDA without first initiating contact through a phone call, to ensure security. FSA has county offices located at USDA Service Centers across the country. To find your office and more information on CFAP, visit farmers.gov/CFAP.
>>>Friday, May 15, 2020
>The Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center today reported the second death of a Cape Girardeau County resident due to COVID-19. The resident was a female in her 70s. She tested positive for COVID-19 on 04/14/2020. The case was a close contact to a confirmed case.
Everyone is urged to take preventive actions to prevent the spread of all respiratory viruses. These actions include:
• Stay at least 6 feet away from individuals not in your household
• Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth mask when in public
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Stay home if you are sick.
Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions may be at
higher risk for more serious complications from COVID-19. If you think, you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for medical advice before showing up. For more information you may visit the Cape County Health Department website or CDC website.
>>>Thursday, May 14, 2020
>The Southeast Missouri Food Bank has scheduled three more Covid-19 Response Mobile food distributions due to the increased need for food assistance following temporary layoffs and school closures due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
The next Covid-19 Response Mobiles will be: Tuesday, May 19, 9:30 a.m., Morley Baptist Church, 221 South Stephenson, Morley; and Thursday, May 21, 3:30 p.m. Cap America, Old Walmart Building, 500 East Highway 72, Fredericktown.
If you need food assistance, you should only attend the mobile held in the county where you live, and should bring a photo ID and piece of mail that shows proof of residence. Patrons are asked to visit only one mobile per month and receive only one box per household. These will be drive-through distributions so people should stay in their vehicle but have a space cleared for a box of food. For more information on upcoming distribution locations, you may visit their website.
>>>Wednesday, May 13, 2020
>The 2020 ?Hemmings Motor News ?Great Race has been rescheduled for Aug. 22-30 from San Antonio, Texas, to Greenville, S.C., due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new date for their overnight stop in Cape Girardeau, is Tuesday, August 25, 2020. The Great Race, out of an abundance of caution for the participants, spectators, and the small towns along the route, has worked with mayors and city officials to take unprecedented steps to ensure safety.
>As Cape Girardeau businesses begin to expand public services, please keep in mind that businesses are open, but the coronavirus pandemic is not over. Here are ways you can conduct business with the City online instead of in-person: Pay your water/sewer/trash/recycling bill either by autopay, online, or by calling Customer Service at 573-339-6322; Use the department contact form to send a message or find phone numbers; Report a problem online; and Contact your City Council representative through the City of Cape Girardeau website.
City Hall reopened on May 11. Several Parks and Recreation facilities reopened on May 4. Some other city facilities remain closed to the public. When visiting facilities please wear a mask and follow any posted directions for entry to ensure proper social distancing. More information is available here.
>The following events in Ste. Genevieve have been cancelled or changed for this year:
- Master Gardeners’ Garden Walk on May 16-17 cancelled
- 4th Friday Art Walk (April 24 and May 22 only) cancelled
- Farmers’ Market (May Saturdays only) cancelled
- Living History Saturdays (May dates only) cancelled
- Big BAM Finale on June 5 cancelled
- French Heritage Festival on June 13 cancelled
- La Veille on June 13 cancelled
- Summer Music Series (June 12 only cancelled). June 5, Chattahoochee a Tribute to Alan Jackson, is rescheduled for August 14, 2020.
- 4th of July Celebration is being revised
Sainte Genevieve Encampment date has moved from September 12 to September 26, 2020.
>The Show-Me-Center has cancelled or postponed some scheduled events. You can see the updated event list here.
>>>Friday, May 8, 2020
>Cape Girardeau County residents are eligible to participate in a coronavirus serology testing study, provided in conjunction with the Cape Girardeau County Health Department, SoutheastHEALTH, Cross Trails Medical Center, and the Cape Girardeau County Commission. The announce was made by the City of Cape earlier on Friday afternoon. The goal of the study is to learn more about community impacts of COVID-19. To be considered, you may complete the survey at www.keepcapestrong.com and consent to testing. Funding for the study is provided by the CARES Act.
>Missouri State Highway Patrol Resumes Road Testing for Class F (Operator’s) Licenses Effective May 11, 2020
All driver examination stations will be closed in observance of Truman Day, Friday, May 8, 2020. Effective May 11, 2020, driver testing services will resume for written and skills testing of all classes, including Class F (operator’s) skills testing, at limited locations across the state. The Patrol asks applicants to be patient and to allow essential drivers with the most pressing need for service to test first. Those applicants who are able to wait until after Memorial Day to seek testing services will assist in making this process smoother for all drivers. Visit the Patrol’s website for a list of designated driver testing locations, days of service, hours of operation, and contact information. The Patrol asks applicants to wear face coverings while in driver examination facilities and adhere to social distancing guidelines. Face coverings will be removed briefly when the applicant’s photo is taken during the licensing process. The Patrol asks applicants appearing for skills testing, to arrive with a sanitized vehicle and a face covering to wear during testing. View the full announcement here.
>In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, agribusiness owners can apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan of up to $10,000 through the Small Business Administration. This advance is designed to provide economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. This loan advance will not have to be repaid.
SBA has resumed processing EIDL applications that were submitted before April 15 on a first-come, first-served basis. New applications are being accepted on a limited basis specifically for agribusinesses. The new eligibility is made possible as a result of the latest round of funds appropriated by Congress in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information on how to apply, visit this website.
>>>Wednesday, May 6, 2020
>Missouri State Highway Patrol Safety Guidelines for Travel During Upcoming Holiday Weekend
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, recognizes Memorial Day weekend is highly anticipated, especially after these last few months. A safe, fun weekend starts with planning and good decisions. Please remember to observe social distancing and other CDC guidelines, and stay home if you are ill. If your plans include driving or boating, choose to be courteous and obey all Missouri laws. Use a seat belt when you drive and wear a life jacket when you're on or near the water. Always pay attention, whether you're operating a vehicle or a vessel, and choose to be a sober driver on land and on the water.
The Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort) during the long holiday weekend. This means every available trooper will be on the road enforcing traffic laws and assisting motorists. View the full release here.
>>>Friday, May 1, 2020
>The following are Local Recommendations and Guidance for Cape Girardeau County Businesses and Citizens, provided by the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center, Cape Girardeau County Commission and cities of Cape Girardeau and Jackson in conjunction with Missouri Governor Mike Parsons’s “Show Me Strong Recovery Plan” beginning May 4, 2020.
Reopening Guidelines include: Phase I: 1. Community-level physical distancing measures to “slow the spread.”; 2. Increase access to diagnostic testing; 3. Increase Public Health and medical system capacities;
Phase II: 1. Rapid Diagnostic testing capacity is sufficient to test, at a minimum, all people with COVID-19; Symptoms as well as close contacts; 2. The healthcare system is able to safely care for all patients, including having appropriate PPE for healthcare workers; 3. There is sufficient Public Health capacity to conduct contact tracing for all new cases and their close contacts. Find a full list of Missouri's guidelines at thislink.
>>>Thursday, April 30, 2020
>The Redhawk Food Pantry, in partnership with the Southeast Missouri Food Bank, will be making 200 boxes of non-perishable food items available for Southeast students, faculty, staff and Chartwells employees to pick up on Thursday, May 7, outside of the Student Recreation Center (west entrance outside Student Aquatic Center). Pick-up will be available starting at 10 a.m. until the food units are gone. View the full announcement here.
>MDC works to safely reopen facilities closed by COVID-19
Earlier this week, Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced the first phase of the “Show Me Strong Recovery” plan outlining how Missouri will gradually begin to reopen economic and social activity starting Monday, May 4. Based on this news, MDC is working on its transition plan to safely reopen MDC facilities, including nature centers and staffed shooting ranges, to ensure social-distancing requirements and infection-prevention measures are in place before opening. The facilities will remain temporarily closed to visitors during this transition phase. According to MDC, many of these facilities see a high volume of visitors of varying ages during peak seasons, especially spring and summer, so ensuring safety guidelines are in place is critical to a safe reopening. Find the full announcementhere.
>Missouri State Highway Patrol Resumes All Written Driver Examinations Effective May 4, 2020
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, informs the public effective May 4, 2020, driver testing services will expand to include: written testing for all classes of licenses, and commercial driver license skills testing (pre-trip, basic, and road).
However, non-CDL road testing is not included in this phase of service reinstatement.
Those requiring the skills test for a CDL should note special priority is being given to applicants who have already passed a portion of the CDL skills test, applicants who had a CDL appointment scheduled prior to the suspension of testing last month, school bus operators over the age of 70 requiring annual testing, and applicants with other essential needs. When CDL applicants schedule an appointment, an examiner will review a COVID-19 acknowledgment form, and advise the applicant to wear a face covering during testing and arrive in a sanitized vehicle. View the full document here.
>>>Monday, April 27, 2020
>Missouri Governor Mike Parson released the state’s “Show Me Strong Recovery Plan”
guidelines for when “Stay Home Missouri” expires May 3. As more businesses reopen, and local officials review the state’s guidelines just released, the citizen’s responsibilities are still most important: Staying home if sick, social distancing, stay apart more than 6 feet whenever possible, avoid socializing in groups that do not readily allow for appropriate social distancing, continue good hygiene and housekeeping, wash hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, avoid touching your face, sneeze or cough into a tissue or the inside of elbow, disinfect frequently used items and surfaces, and minimize travel to the extent possible.
>>>Friday, April 24, 2020
>Written Tests For Commercial Driver Licenses Resume At Limited Locations Beginning April 27, 2020, For Applicants With Essential Needs
Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces beginning April 27, 2020, the Patrol will provide written knowledge testing for commercial driver license (CDL) applicants with essential needs. The CDL written tests will be limited to specific testing locations statewide. Potential applicants should call the number listed for their area to determine locations and times these services are offered. A complete listing of testing locations can be found on the Patrol’s website, here.
>>>Thursday, April 23, 2020
>Due to COVID-19 the 35th Annual Kow Pasture Klassic has been cancelled which was scheduled for May 2. While we hate to cancel the event, we want everyone to remain safe. There will be a time when we can get together again and raise money for some great causes.
The Kow Pasture Klassic has been held at Schindler’s Tavern for years at a man-made 9-hole golf course behind the Tavern and St. Lawrence Parish. The funds raised over the past 35 years benefit the Kenny Rogers Children’s Center in Sikeston and the Veteran’s Home in Cape Girardeau. The center can be contacted at krcc@kennyrogerscenter.org
>Cape Girardeau Public Schools will remain closed as a precaution. MEALS WILL BE PROVIDED TO ALL CHILDREN 18-UNDER AT OUR ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS FROM 10AM - NOON, MONDAY- THURSDAY, WITH DOUBLE MEALS ON THURSDAY. Central Administrative Office is open Tuesdays and Thursdays 8AM-1PM. You can also email tigerhelp@capetigers.com with any family/student support requests. Please stay informed on the latest regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) by frequently visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
>>>Tuesday, April 21, 2020
>The City of Cape's April City Council meetings will be streamed live and available for replay on their YouTube channel. In order to adhere to social distancing guidelines, no more than 10 people may be in the Council Chambers at any one time. Please send feedback via email to cityclerk@cityofcape.org or by phone to 573-339-6320. *Public hearing exceptions apply.
>>>Friday, April 17, 2020
>The Southeast Missouri Food Bank has scheduled another series of Covid-19 Response Mobile food distributions to respond to the increased need for food assistance following temporary layoffs and school closures due to the outbreak of Covid-19.
The next Covid-19 Response Mobiles will be:
Monday, 2 p.m. Elk’s Lodge, 19603 Molasses Hollow Rd., Ste. Genevieve
Wednesday, noon, Cape First Church, 1317 North Main, Sikeston
Thursday, 8:30 a.m., Woodland R-4 School, Marble Hill
April 28, 10 a.m., 150 Missouri Highway 106 Spur, Ellington
April 28, 10 a.m., Rotary Park, Danny Boulevard, Piedmont
April 30, 5 p.m., Red Star Pantry, 1301 North Main, Cape Girardeau
The mobiles are intended for families who are newly in need because of job losses or reduced hours due to the coronavirus. The food bank also can help with applications for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/formerly food stamps) for those who are recently unemployed. For SNAP application assistance, call Lindsey Kern at 573-475-7573.
>>>Thursday, April 16, 2020
>The Redhawk Food Pantry will be making 100 boxes of non-perishable food items available for Southeast students, faculty, staff and Chartwells employees to pick up from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturday, April 18, outside of the Student Recreation Center (west entrance outside Student Aquatic Center). The Mobile Redhawk Food Pantry will be set up in a drive-thru format to ensure non-contact and social distancing guidelines are employed throughout the distribution process. Items to be distributed Saturday have been donated by the Redhawk Food Pantry. For more information on Southeast Missouri State's response to COVID-19, please visit this site.
>>>Wednesday, April 15, 2020
>From a St. Francis Medical Center release on Wednesday, Apri 15th:
"The community-wide Coronavirus Test Collection Center [located at Arena Park in Cape] will close, effective immediately. If the region experiences a surge in positive COVID-19 cases, the Center will reopen to serve the needs of our community. In the past week, the Center has experienced a rapid decline in the number of tests performed each day in large part due to the “Stay at Home” order. Saint Francis Healthcare System operates multiple testing locations throughout the region. All testing locations are by appointment only; a pre-screening is required. Anyone seeking a test must first call the Coronavirus Community Nurse Hotline at 573-331-4200. The Hotline is staffed from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, and 9 am to 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday. Nurses provide screening to those who thinks they have been exposed to COVID-19. If a patient meets the DHSS and CDC screening criteria, the patient will be directed to the nearest Saint Francis testing location. If you are experiencing emergent medical symptoms, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If you have mild symptoms and would not have driven to the emergency room six months ago, please do not go now. You should stay home, self-quarantine and call the Coronavirus Community Nurse Hotline for next steps."
>>>Monday, April 13, 2020
>The Missouri Department of Conservation announces that kids’ fishing day events at the state’s trout parks have been cancelled this year amid concerns over the coronavirus (COVID-19). The kids’ fishing day events cancelled include: May 2 at Montauk State Park near Licking and Bennett Spring State Park in Lebanon and May 16 at Roaring River State Park near Cassville and Maramec Spring Park in St. James. You may read the full statement here.
>>>Thursday, April 9, 2020
>President Carlos Vargas Provides COVID-19 updates on University operations for the remainder of the Spring 2019 Semester. You may read the full statementhere.
>Following state and federal guidance, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is extending the temporary closures of its facilities and cancellations of its public events and programs through April 30. MDC will reassess the situation at that time. Read the full statement here.
>>>Tuesday, April 7, 2020
>Governor Mike Parson has issued a "Stay at Home Order" for all of Missouri. Many questions and rumors remain in towns across Southeast Missouri. The City of Cape has taken the time to answer a few questions, here.
>>>Monday, April 6, 2020
>The Missouri State Highway Patrol Extends the Statewide Suspension Of All Written & Driver Road Testing, Salvage Inspections, & Bus Inspections. Read the full statement here.
>>>Friday, April 3, 2020
>Governor Mike Parson issues a statewide "Stay Home Missouri" order to control, contain, and combat COVID-19. Details here.
>>> Thursday, April 2, 2020
>On Thursday, April 2nd, Southeast Missouri State University President Carlos Vargas announced that the May 16, 2020 commencement ceremonies would be postponed until a later time. The spring 2020 graduating class, will receive a printed commencement program, and the University is asking seniors to share stories and photos, reflecting on their college years at Southeast on the form at semo.edu/senior. The University will also be preparing a FAQ to address many of the questions on semo.edu/senior in the near future. You may direct questions to covid19@semo.edu. You may watch President Carlos Vargas' video message here.
>>> Monday, March 30, 2020
>Governor Parson has approved a waiver that grants full reciprocity for physicians and surgeons who wish to assist Missourians during the COVID-19 crisis. During this State of Emergency, physicians and surgeons who are licensed in another state can provide care to Missourians, in person or using telehealth options, as long as they are actively licensed in another state and their license has not been disciplined. This access is expected to increase the ability to meet the needs of Missouri patients who are being tested and treated for COVID-19.
>>> Friday, March 27, 2020
>The SoutheastHEALTH Foundation has created the SoutheastHEALTH Response and Recovery Fund (RRF) to support first responders and healthcare workers affected by disruptions due to the coronavirus pandemic. Southeast HEALTH Foundation has seed funded the new program with a donation of $10,000.
The mission of the RRF is to improve the health and social welfare of SoutheastHEALTH healthcare workers, first responders, and at-risk patients by meeting short and long-term public health, medical, and social service needs.
>>>Tuesday, March 24, 2020
>Colonel Eric T. Olson, Superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol announces that the Patrol is immediately suspending all written and skills-based driver road testing at all locations through April 6, 2020. This includes operator, commercial driver license and motorcycle testing. Read the full statement.
>>>Monday, March 23, 2020
Out of an abundance of caution and in reaction to the presence of COVID-19 in Missouri, Missouri State Parks will temporarily close all campgrounds and lodging, effective Friday, March 27, through Thursday, April 30. This includes campgrounds, park-run lodging and concessionaire-run lodging. Missouri State Parks will remain open to the public, including day-use areas, boat ramps and trails. Read more.
>>>Saturday, March 21, 2020
>Statement from Governor Mike Parson
Every person in the State of Missouri shall avoid eating or drinking at restaurants, bars, or food courts; provided, however, that the use of drive-thru, pickup, or delivery options is allowed throughout the duration of this Order. The Order will take effect beginning 12:01 A.M. Monday, March 23, 2020 and remain in effect until 12:01 A.M. Monday, April 6, 2020 unless extended by further order. Read the full statement.
>The community-wide Coronavirus Test Collection Center will be open Tuesday, March 24 at 8 a.m. at Arena Park in Cape Girardeau. This facility is by appointment ONLY. A pre-screening is required. Anyone seeking a test must call the Nurse Coronavirus Hotline at St. Francis at (573) 331-4200 before arriving. This hotline is available 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. More information.
>>>Friday, March 20, 2020
>Statement from SoutheastHEALTH
SoutheastHEALTH has announced that effective Monday, March 23, elective surgeries will be postponed. We are taking this action under the advisement and recommendations of state and federal reporting entities.
We will continue to accept urgent cases as they come to us. This precautionary measure, while unprecedented for SoutheastHEALTH, is to help us preserve critical personal protective equipment (PPE) while keeping bedside clinicians in our hospital and our community constituents as safe as possible.
>The Bonne Terre Garden Club has cancelled the April 18 Arbor Day Event which was to be held in Terre Du Lac.
>>>Thursday, March 19, 2020
>Statement from Saint Francis Healthcare System
We are monitoring the COVID-19 situation continuously and following the guidance and direction of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as state and county officials. Saint Francis Healthcare System has set up Incident Command and meets twice daily. Read the full statement.
>The Kenny Rogers Children’s Center will be closing for all therapy appointments from 3/20/20 – 4/3/20. Their plan is to re-open for on Monday, 4/6. They will keep everyone updated if there is any change to this schedule based on future recommendations from local, state and federal governments.
>>>Wednesday, March 18, 2020
>Marcus Wehrenberg Cape West Cinema is closed until further notice. Read more.
>The Humane Society of Southeast Missouri will be taking actions to safeguard guests and meet the needs of the community.
Effective 3/19/20
They will be open by appointment only. If you want to adopt you need to call ahead and schedule an appointment and the staff will be ready to assist you in finding a new family member. If you need to surrender a pet, this will be done by appointment only as well. They are currently at capacity so they ask that only people with emergency needs call to schedule a surrender. Details here.
>SoutheastHEALTH is committed to putting the public’s safety at the forefront of all we do. We take the COVID-19 pandemic very seriously and are following guidelines as set forth by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). These include eliminating group gatherings to help halt spread of the virus. Beginning at 10 p.m. today, March 18, HealthPoint Fitness in Cape Girardeau and Jackson will be closed until further notice. HealthPoint Rehab at both the Cape and Jackson locations will remain open. Patients entering the facilities will continue to be verbally screened. More information.
>The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) announces it will close its nature centers, visitor centers, and education centers around the state to visitors effective Thursday, March 19, to help protect the public amid ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns. The indoor facilities will be closed to the public through April 15 and MDC will reassess the situation at that point. Nature center trails remain open. Read the release.
>Cape Friends of Traditional Music and Dance have cancelled their Contra Dance scheduled for March 21 at Hedman's Winery and the dance scheduled for March 28.
>Pursuant to Governor Mike Parson’s Executive Order 20-02 declaring a state of emergency in response to COVID-19 and a request from Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, Governor Parson today signed Executive Order 20-03 ordering all Missouri municipal elections previously scheduled for April 7, 2020, to be postponed to June 2, 2020. Listen to interview with Cape County Clerk, Kara Clark Summers
>River City Players Community Theatre's production of "Rope" by Patrick Hamilton is postponed. The show was scheduled to run April 2-5, 2020.
>>>Tuesday, March 17, 2020
>The Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office will take all necessary precautions for the health and safety of our employees, inmates and citizens.
We are taking all necessary precautions, monitoring all sources of information including but not limited to the President, Governor, CDC, Homeland Security, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Cape Girardeau County Health Department, county leaders, Emergency Management and many other services offered to Law Enforcement. Learn more.
>The Farmington Civic Center will be closed beginning Wednesday, March 18 through April 6.
>The Farmington Public Library will be closed beginning Wednesday, March 18 through April 6, and all Library programs will be cancelled during this time.
>The 53rd Annual Missouri Whitewater Championships are now cancelled.
>The Spring Fling Vendor Blender at the Farmington Civic Center is now cancelled.
>All Missouri State Park events and programs are now cancelled including the Easter Egg Hunts at St. Francois and Johnson's Shut-Ins State Parks -the state parks are still open for hiking, biking, fishing, etc.
>The Tasting Room at The Cave Vineyard is now closed. No reopening date has been announced.
>OVC Cancels Athletic Competitions Through End of Academic Year
The Ohio Valley Conference Board of Presidents has announced effective immediately the cancellation of all intercollegiate competitions, including OVC Championships, through the end of the 2019-20 academic year due to the COVID-19 public health threat. Details here.
>Cape Girardeau Public Library has made the difficult decision to close at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, March 17th through at least Sunday, April 5th, 2020. This decision was made in response to COVID-19 based on recommendations at the federal, state, and local levels. Details here.
>Riverside Regional Library has made the decision to close their branches to the public effective Wednesday, March 18 through Saturday, April 4. Details here.
>The Student Recreation Center at Southeast Missouri State University will close at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17 and remain closed until further notice. For more updates, visit semo.edu/coronavirus
>The Sikeston Public Library has made the decision to close to the public, effective Wednesday, March 18 through Sunday, April 5. This is based on the actions of their local school district, as well as other libraries across Missouri. Read the full statement.
>>>Monday, March 16, 2020
>The CDC has suggested canceling gatherings of 50 people or more. To that end, Old Town Cape will be postponing the Cape Riverfront Market as well as Tunes at Twilight until further notice. As the events draw nearer, they will re-assess and share more details once decided. Details here.
>The Kenny Rogers Children’s Center in Sikeston has made the decision to cancel all remaining Telethon events scheduled for March 21, 2020. These events include the pancake breakfast, the 5K walk/run, the blood drive and our live telethon streaming event. Refunds for the 5K will be available. Please know that these are difficult times, and our decision was based on keeping our patients and staff safe. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Center!
>The Cape Girardeau Public School Board has voted to close schools Wednesday, March 18, 2020 - Friday, April 3, 2020. They will determine by April 3 if it is appropriate to return to school Monday, April 6, 2020. They are going to be providing meals to children, 18 years and younger at their elementary schools from 10AM-noon beginning this Wednesday. These sites will be open Monday - Friday. Details here.
>The Missouri State Highway Patrol requests the public’s cooperation on driver examinations, related to preventing the spread of COVID-19. The recommendations are from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Read the full statement.
>The Ste. Genevieve Chamber of Commerce has announced that all ribbon cuttings, membership meetings, and board meetings are CANCELLED. Read the full statement.
>The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) announces it has cancelled most public events and programs at its nature centers, shooting ranges, and other locations around the state until April 15. Read the full statement.
>The Jackson R-2 School District has decided to cancel school Tuesday, Mar. 17 through Friday, Apr. 3. The District will use the next four days (Mar. 17-20) for the purposes of professional development and planning. During Mar. 17-20, there will be no school events or sports practices.
>The Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce is postponing all events until May 1. They will hold "Reducing the Risk: How To Stay Physically and Financially Healthy During the COVID-19 Crisis" as a Facebook Live event on Tuesday, Mar. 24 at 8 a.m. You can contact the Jackson Area Chamber at 573-243-8131.
>The Cape Chamber, MAGNET, and Visit Cape offices will remain open for business, but may operate on reduced office hours. If you would like to visit them, it's encouraged that you call ahead. They have made the decision to postpone upcoming events, including: Business After Hours (March 17), Leadership Cape (March 19), First Friday Coffee (April 3), and Emerge Young Professionals Summit (April 17).
>The League of Women Voters of Southeast Missouri has cancelled their Voters' Forum scheduled for Mar. 30 at the Cape Girardeau Public Library.
>The Sikeston Jaycees will announce their 2020 rodeo lineup virtually on their Facebook page.
>The Sikeston Regional Chamber will cancel this Friday's Membership Luncheon and postpone the 2020 Annual Awards Banquet, likely until this fall.
>Tuesday, Mar. 17, 2020 will be the last day of face-to-face classes at Notre Dame Regional High School until Apr. 3 when they will reevaluate. They will have a 2 p.m. dismissal Tuesday. This decision was made in regards to the continuing changes nationally, in the Diocese, and locally. Additionally, all spring sports, activities and events are temporarily suspended. The Campus will remain closed to all students during this time period. Read more.
>In an effort to combat the spread of the Covid 19 virus, The Farmington Regional Chamber is postponing all events until further notice. Updates will be made available on FarmingtonRegionalChamber.com and the Farmington Regional Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.
With an increasing number of school closures throughout Missouri in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19), MDC is announcing that it must cancel the MoNASP virtual state-tournament.
>>>Saturday, March 14th, 2020
>Missouri State Parks has postponed special events and programs and temporarily suspended planned guided group or school tours now through April 30th.
>>>Friday, March 13, 2020
>COVID-19 SEMO Campus Update 3-13-20
University leaders convened March 13 in their continued effort to address several issues impacting faculty, staff and students in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. At this time, there are no reported cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on any of Southeast’s campuses. Below is a summary of today’s actions
All University events on and off campus are canceled through April 17. This includes rental and use of University facilities by external individuals and groups.
• All River Campus events, performances and productions are canceled through April 17. For information about tickets, contact the River Campus Box Office during normal office hours, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday, at (573) 651-2265.
• First STEP orientation, originally scheduled for March 27, has been canceled.
• Show Me Day, originally scheduled for March 28, has been canceled.
• All Southeast Missouri State University Alumni events are canceled through April 17.
Show Me Center events are being postponed during the period and include:
• The 2020 Heartland Home & Garden Show Presented by KFVS12, originally scheduled for March 20-22 has been postponed and rescheduled for April 24-26. The show hours will be the same, 3-8 p.m. Friday, April 24; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, April 25; and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, April 26. For more information, visit ShowMeCenter.BIZ.
• The March 27 Lynyrd Skynyrd concert has been postponed. A rescheduled date will be announced in the future. Tickets purchased for the March 27 concert will be honored on the rescheduled date. For more information, please visit lynyrdskynyrd.com.
• The March 24-25 PAW Patrol Live! show has been postponed. A rescheduled date will be announced in the future. For more information, visit ShowMeCenter.BIZ.
• The April 17-19 Hot Wheels Monster Trucks LIVE has been postponed. A rescheduled date will be announced in the future. For more information, visit ShowMeCenter.BIZ.
As a reminder, the University issued a statement on March 12 that it would not conduct in-person classes the week of March 23 in an effort to limit the possibility of exposure to the coronavirus to the campus and Cape Girardeau communities. Offices will remain open for normal business hours that week unless noted below.
Operation of University Business Units March 23-27:
• Kent Library will be open 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• The Kent Library Computer Lab will be open 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• The Student Recreation Center will be open 6 a.m.-6 p.m.
• The Student Aquatic Center will be closed.
• The Holcomb Success Center will be open.
• Limited dining services will be available at select venues. Menus and times will be announced at a later date.
• Limited shuttle service will be available for residence hall dining.
• Counseling and Disability Services will be available by phone and email the week of March 23. For crisis management, contact Counseling and Disability Services at (573) 986-6191 or ucs@semo.edu, or after hours, contact the Department of Public Safety at (573) 651-2911.
• The Southeast Missouri State University Autism Center for Diagnosis and Treatment will have normal hours of operation March 23-27.
• The University School for Young Children will continue to have normal hours of operation until further notice.
• The Center for Speech and Hearing will suspend all in-person therapy services through March 31. The Center is working directly with clients on alternative service options.
Southeast Missouri State University continues to monitor this situation and will provide updates on additional impacts to the campus as more information becomes available. All updates will be available online at https://semo.edu/sealerts/covid-19.html
>Statement from St. Francis Healthcare System
Saint Francis Healthcare System is taking the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic very seriously. We are monitoring the situation continuously and following the guidance and direction of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). We are taking the proper precautions as recommended by the CDC. Read the full statement.
>Statement from SoutheastHEALTH
SoutheastHEALTH is committed to putting patient, family, volunteer, staff and community safety at the forefront of all we do. We are taking the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic very seriously and are adopting a comprehensive approach to managing the situation as it develops. Read the full statement.
>Statement from Notre Dame Regional High School
Out of an abundance of caution, Notre Dame Regional High School has decided to cancel it's Senior Citizen Dance that was scheduled for Friday, March 27, 2020.
>Statement from West Park Mall Regarding Planned Events and Easter Photo Operations
The health and well-being of the community we serve, our customers, employees, and retail partners is our top priority. Out of an abundance of caution and based on guidelines for public meetings and events from the CDC and other governmental agencies, we have made the decision to cancel or postpone all planned events, which includes our seasonal Easter Bunny photo program.
>>>Thursday, March 12, 2020
>Statement from Southeast Missouri State University
In an abundance of caution, and in consultation with local public health officials, Southeast Missouri State University will not conduct in-person classes the week of March 23 in an effort to limit the possibility of exposure to the coronavirus to the campus and Cape Girardeau communities. Online courses will continue to be delivered without any interruption or change. During this period, Southeast will remain open and faculty and staff operations will continue with business office hours of 8 a.m.-5 p.m. This includes all Southeast campuses. Read more.
>Statement from Cape Girardeau Noon Lions Club
Dean Reeves, president of the Cape Girardeau Noon Lions Club, announced that upon recommendation of the Cape Girardeau County Health Department, the 82nd Annual Cape Noon Lions Club Pancake Day scheduled for Wednesday, March 18, will be postponed until a late date.
>Details surrounding the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) are changing rapidly, and local, state and national health agencies and municipalities are working diligently to reduce the potential for widespread exposure by limiting large-scale gatherings. Since several thousand area residents are regularly served during Pancake Day, it was determined that the prudent course of action was to postpone the event.