Real Talk with Riggin

Old Town Cape is gearing up for its Annual Dinner, bringing the community together for an evening of connection, celebration, and a look ahead at exciting initiatives. Marketing and Event Coordinator Savannah Edwards says the event will highlight the organization’s ongoing efforts to support local businesses, enhance downtown experiences, and foster growth throughout the district. Attendees can expect updates on upcoming events, opportunities to get involved, and a chance to network with fellow community members who share a passion for keeping Old Town Cape vibrant and thriving.

Families are invited to celebrate the season at a free Easter egg hunt and game day hosted by Grace Fellowship Family Worship Center, with Coordinator Marcie Wright helping lead the festivities. The event promises a fun-filled day for kids and parents alike, featuring egg hunts, interactive games, and opportunities for the community to come together in a welcoming, family-friendly environment. Organizers say it’s a great way to celebrate Easter while creating lasting memories and connections with others in the community.

Concerns are being raised about activities at the University of Miami Health System, as Will Hild, head of Consumers' Research, is spotlighting what he describes as a growing controversy surrounding transparency and priorities within nonprofit hospital systems. Hild has publicly questioned what Miami Health may be “hiding,” pointing to allegations of deleted webpages and reduced public access to information, while broader watchdog efforts have criticized some major hospital networks for using taxpayer-supported resources on administrative costs, political initiatives, or facilities rather than direct patient care . His organization’s wider campaign argues that certain hospitals across the country—including Miami—may be prioritizing ideology, branding, or expansion over affordability and basic healthcare delivery, fueling calls for greater oversight, transparency, and accountability in how nonprofit health systems operate and spend public funds

Saxony Lutheran High School is bringing the magic of Frozen the Musical to the stage, and teacher and cast member Tammy Petzoldt is joined by a talented group of students to make it all come to life. Clara Bledsoe, Caroline Bennett, Cara Winningham, Tony Moll, and Zoe Kester are part of the cast delivering a performance filled with music, storytelling, and the beloved characters audiences know and love. From powerful vocals to detailed stage production, the show highlights the hard work and dedication of both students and staff, promising an engaging experience for the entire community.

Recent bills passed by the Virginia General Assembly could soon influence policies far beyond the Commonwealth, according to Mike O'Neill, Vice President of Legal Affairs at Landmark Legal Foundation. O’Neill warns that a wave of legislation emerging from Virginia—ranging from regulatory expansions to shifts in legal standards—often serves as a blueprint for lawmakers in other states. He says these measures, once tested and enacted, can quickly gain traction nationwide as advocacy groups and policymakers replicate them, potentially reshaping legal landscapes and sparking debates over states’ rights, governance, and the balance of power.

Following a tragic U.S. military aircraft crash that claimed six lives, Colonel William Dunn, a former combat aviator, is offering insight into the risks and realities of military aviation. Drawing from years of flight experience, Dunn explains that while such incidents are rare, they underscore the complexity of operating advanced aircraft under demanding conditions. He emphasizes the rigorous training and safety protocols in place, while noting that investigations will focus on factors such as mechanical issues, weather conditions, and human performance. Dunn also reflects on the deep sense of loss within the military community, where each service member is part of a close-knit brotherhood and sisterhood committed to the mission.

“First Pennant” marks a milestone moment as the St. Louis Cardinals celebrate their 100th anniversary, and author Brock Peterman brings that rich history to life by revisiting the team’s first National League pennant in 1926. Peterman highlights how that breakthrough season helped shape one of baseball’s most storied franchises, detailing the players, challenges, and defining moments that ignited a century of Cardinal pride. The book not only reflects on the significance of that inaugural pennant but also connects it to the enduring legacy and loyal fan base that continue to define Cardinals baseball today.

“Jackson in Bloom” is bringing fresh energy and seasonal charm to the community, highlighting local businesses, creativity, and the beauty of spring. Events Coordinator Jess Girard with UJRO says the event is designed to give residents and visitors alike a reason to get out, explore downtown Jackson, and support small businesses while enjoying family-friendly activities, shopping, and vibrant displays. From floral-themed attractions to special promotions and interactive experiences, Jackson in Bloom aims to celebrate the spirit of the season while strengthening community connections and showcasing everything the area has to offer. Don't forget the donation drive for the safe house til March 27th

Concerns about accountability and oversight take center stage in a conversation with Lance LoRusso, founder of the Blue Line Lawyer Institute, former law enforcement officer, and author of When Cops Kill. LoRusso explores the complex and often controversial issue of what happens when individuals with criminal histories or questionable judgment are placed in positions of authority over police departments. He discusses how such dynamics can impact officer morale, public trust, and the integrity of the justice system, while emphasizing the importance of transparent leadership and lawful oversight. Drawing from his experience on both sides of the badge, LoRusso offers insight into balancing accountability with respect for the rule of law in an increasingly scrutinized policing environment.

Concerns over free speech and government overreach are taking center stage in California, where a legal battle involving Flying Goat Cellars is raising important constitutional questions. Senior Staff Attorney Adam Shelton with the Goldwater Institute is representing the winery, arguing that state regulations unfairly restrict how businesses can communicate with consumers about their products. At the heart of the case is whether the government can dictate or limit certain types of commercial speech, particularly in the wine industry. Shelton contends that these rules go beyond reasonable regulation and infringe on First Amendment rights, potentially setting a troubling precedent for other small businesses. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications not only for wineries, but for free speech protections across multiple industries.

Late-night comedy shows are increasingly taking aim at the United States and its allies, often framing global issues through a sharply critical and satirical lens. Curtis Houck, Managing Editor of MRC NewsBusters, says many of today’s late-night hosts are using their platforms not just for humor, but to push pointed political narratives that frequently cast America and its international partners in a negative light. Houck argues that while satire has long played a role in political discourse, the tone has shifted in recent years, with jokes increasingly blurring the line between comedy and commentary, especially when it comes to foreign policy, military actions, and diplomatic relationships.

A growing lawsuit involving the popular gaming platform Roblox is raising concerns among families and child safety advocates, as allegations focus on inadequate protections for young users and exposure to harmful content. Alleigh Marre, Executive Director of the American Parents Coalition, says the case highlights what many parents have feared for years—that tech companies are not doing enough to safeguard children in digital spaces. Marre’ emphasizes the need for stronger accountability measures, clearer parental controls, and transparency from platforms that attract millions of minors daily, noting that this lawsuit could set an important precedent for how online companies are expected to protect their youngest users.

Abortion pills and the growing push for euthanasia for the mentally ill are raising serious ethical and cultural questions across the country. Executive Director of Truth & Liberty Richard Harris joins the program to discuss the expanding use of chemical abortion drugs, concerns about safety and oversight, and how similar arguments about “autonomy” are now being used in some places to justify assisted suicide for people struggling with mental illness. Harris examines what these developments could mean for vulnerable individuals, the medical community, and the broader debate over the value and protection of human life.

A new ad campaign is encouraging leaders in Missouri to responsibly phase out the state income tax while maintaining fiscal stability and funding for essential services. Leah Vukmir, Senior Vice President of State Affairs, says the campaign highlights how a gradual, responsible approach could strengthen economic growth, attract new businesses, and allow Missourians to keep more of their hard-earned money. Vukmir explains the initiative aims to spark conversation among lawmakers and taxpayers about long-term tax reform, pointing to other states that have reduced or eliminated income taxes while continuing to invest in priorities like education, infrastructure, and public safety. Success should not be punished.

“The Power of a Moment” highlights how even small interactions can have a lasting impact on a young person’s life. Associate Regional Director of ABC Today and Cape Girardeau Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri, Brittney Swicionis, shares how meaningful mentorship moments—whether it’s a simple conversation, encouragement during a tough time, or celebrating a small success—can shape a child’s confidence and future. Through the organization’s mentoring programs, volunteers are helping create powerful, positive moments that build strong relationships and open doors for youth across the region. Swicionis emphasizes that anyone can make a difference, and sometimes all it takes is one moment of support to change a life’s direction.

Restaurant Hop is bringing the community together through food and conversation, and Administrative Assistant at the Dobbins Conservatory of Theatre & Dance, Sara Steffens, joined us to talk about the event and what it means for students and the local arts community. Steffens, who works with the conservatory at Southeast Missouri State University, shared how Restaurant Hop offers a fun way for people to explore local dining spots while supporting community connections and the arts. She highlighted the excitement surrounding the event and encouraged residents to come out, enjoy great food, and help celebrate the creativity and talent connected to the university and the region. 🍽️🎭

Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins provided the latest updates on state initiatives and election matters, highlighting efforts to improve voter access, streamline business services, and enhance transparency in government operations. He emphasized ongoing projects aimed at modernizing election systems and supporting Missouri businesses while ensuring the integrity of public records. Secretary Hoskins encouraged citizens to stay informed about state programs and resources, underscoring the importance of civic engagement in strengthening Missouri communities.

The Cape Noon Lions Club is hosting its annual Pancake Day, bringing the community together for a delicious breakfast and a great cause. Chairman Chance Franklin and Vice Chair Mike Renick are leading the event, ensuring a fun-filled day with plenty of pancakes, sausages, drinks, camaraderie, and community spirit. All proceeds will support local initiatives and charitable projects, making it a perfect way to enjoy a morning meal while giving back to the Cape Girardeau area.

A Dementia Caregiver Workshop is offering guidance and support for those caring for loved ones living with memory loss. Caregiver and spokesperson Hope Botwinski will share practical tips to help families better understand dementia, manage daily caregiving challenges, and care for their own well-being while supporting someone with the disease. The workshop will provide helpful resources, communication strategies, and encouragement for caregivers navigating the emotional and physical demands that often come with dementia care.

The Zonta Club of Cape Girardeau is inviting the community to take part in its upcoming flea market fundraiser. Coordinator Dale Humphries says the event will feature a wide variety of vendors offering antiques, collectibles, household items, crafts, and unique treasures for bargain hunters. Proceeds from the flea market will help support Zonta’s local service projects and programs that benefit women and girls throughout the Cape Girardeau area. Organizers say the event is a great opportunity for residents to shop, connect with the community, and support a meaningful cause.

An independent Special Forces operator recently concluded years of dedicated service in Ukraine, working alongside seasoned strategist Mike (Micky) Purcell. Their efforts spanned complex operations and critical missions, providing tactical support, intelligence insights, and strategic coordination in challenging environments. Together, they contributed to enhancing operational effectiveness on the ground, demonstrating resilience, skill, and a commitment to supporting allies in a high-stakes conflict zone.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Missouri’s top consumer complaints in 2025 highlight the wide range of issues facing residents, according to Catherine Hanaway, Missouri’s Attorney General. Her office received more than 104,000 consumer complaints and inquiries during the year, with illegal telemarketing calls topping the list for the fifth year in a row, generating more than 33,600 complaints through the state’s No-Call Unit. Other leading concerns included automotive issues such as delayed vehicle titles and repair disputes, financial complaints involving debt collectors and banks, online retail problems like undelivered purchases, and contractor disputes in real estate and construction. The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section also reported significant accomplishments in 2025, securing over $61 million in judgments and settlements for the state and recovering nearly $15 million in restitution for Missouri consumers, while mediating thousands of disputes and pursuing legal action against fraudulent businesses to protect Missourians in the marketplace.

Yahir Counseling and Consulting LLC, led by owner Marquetta Johnson, is dedicated to helping individuals, families, and organizations navigate life’s challenges through compassionate counseling and professional guidance. With a focus on personal growth, emotional wellness, and practical strategies for overcoming obstacles, Johnson works to create a supportive environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered. Through a combination of counseling services, consulting, and community engagement, Yahir Counseling and Consulting aims to equip people with the tools they need to build healthier relationships, strengthen resilience, and move forward with confidence.

A pro-life advocate has reached a legal settlement restoring his ability to share his message in public after a dispute over free speech rights. Senior Counsel at First Liberty Institute, Nate Kellum, explains that the agreement affirms the individual’s constitutional right to peacefully express pro-life views without being silenced by government restrictions. Kellum says the outcome is an important victory for free speech and religious liberty, ensuring that Americans can voice their beliefs in public spaces while setting a precedent to protect similar rights for others in the future.

March is National Nutrition Month, a time dedicated to encouraging healthy eating habits and making informed food choices. St. Louis District Dairy Council Educator Maggie Nosic says the month is a great reminder to focus on balanced meals that include a variety of nutrient-rich foods. She highlights the importance of incorporating dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese as part of a healthy diet because they provide key nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamin D. Throughout the month, Nosic encourages families to try new recipes, plan meals ahead, and make small changes that can lead to long-term improvements in overall nutrition and wellness. 🥛🥗🍎

Success story! Inland Cape Rice Company is making waves in the local agriculture and food scene as owners Meagan and Sam Schneider turn their vision into a thriving business. Built on a commitment to quality, sustainability, and supporting regional farmers, Inland Cape Rice Company is bringing locally grown rice to tables across Southeast Missouri and around the world. Meagan and Sam have worked to create a brand that highlights the value of locally sourced food while strengthening the connection between consumers and the farmers who grow it. Their dedication and entrepreneurial spirit are helping prove that innovative agriculture and small business success can flourish right here in our region. The rice is sold at Schnucks!

The largest school district in Maryland is under scrutiny for promoting “anti-racism” training aimed at students, raising questions from parents and education advocates about political ideology in the classroom. According to Sarah Parshall Perry, Vice President and Legal Fellow at Defending Education, the training materials encourage children to view social interactions primarily through the lens of race and systemic bias. Critics argue the lessons may pressure students to adopt specific viewpoints on race and identity rather than fostering open discussion. Perry says families deserve transparency about what is being taught and how such programs may shape students’ understanding of history, culture, and personal responsibility in the classroom.

As tensions with Iran continue to dominate headlines, critics say some major news outlets are shaping the narrative in ways that reflect elitist bias rather than balanced reporting. Nicholas Fondacaro, associate editor at Media Research Center’s NewsBusters, joins us to break down what he calls the “worst of the elitist media” in their coverage of Iran. Fondacaro points to examples where major networks have downplayed Iranian protests, echoed regime talking points, or framed U.S. and Israeli actions as the primary source of instability while minimizing Iran’s role in regional aggression. He argues these narratives often leave out key context and fail to highlight the voices of Iranians opposing the regime, raising concerns about how Americans are being informed about a critical foreign policy issue

Regional Director Penny Williams joins us to highlight the exciting lineup of March events for Special Olympics Missouri. As the spring season gets underway, athletes across the region are preparing for competitions, training opportunities, and community gatherings that celebrate inclusion, teamwork, and achievement. Williams shares how these events support athletes of all abilities, the role volunteers and local supporters play in making them possible, and how the community can get involved to cheer on and encourage these inspiring competitors throughout the month.

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel William Dunn has been offering candid commentary on the growing tensions with Iran and what they mean for U.S. troop safety and homeland security. Drawing on his decades of Marine Corps experience, Dunn has warned that a military buildup and potential escalation in the region could heighten risks to service members stationed in the Middle East by exposing them to missile, drone, and asymmetrical threats from Iranian forces and their proxies — considerations that underscore the importance of strategic planning and force protection. At the same time, analysts highlight that prolonged conflict with Iran could also expand risks to the U.S. homeland through cyberattacks, terrorism-inspired lone actors, and other asymmetric retaliation, challenging domestic security agencies to guard against unconventional threats even far from the battlefield.

Radiant Mobile is partnering with T-Mobile to launch what it says is the nation’s first Christian wireless service, designed to give faith-focused consumers a mobile option aligned with their values. Co-Founder Paul Fisher says the service will operate on T-Mobile’s nationwide network while offering customers an alternative that supports Christian ministries and promotes faith-centered content. Fisher explains that the goal is to provide reliable coverage and competitive pricing while also creating a wireless service that reflects the beliefs and priorities of many Christian families across the country.

The Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department is inviting families to a fun and memorable evening during its upcoming Mother/Son Game Night. Coordinator Dylan Koyer joins us to talk about this special event designed to give moms and their sons a chance to spend quality time together enjoying a variety of games, activities, and friendly competition in a relaxed setting. From classic board games to interactive challenges, the night is all about building connections, sharing laughs, and creating lasting memories for families in the community. Dylan will share details on what participants can expect, how to register, and why events like this are a great way for families to unplug and enjoy time together

March brings a variety of family-friendly and educational programs to the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center, and Manager Laci Prucinsky says it’s a perfect time to reconnect with nature as spring begins to arrive. The Missouri Department of Conservation facility will host hands-on programs focused on early spring wildlife activity, hiking opportunities, and educational workshops designed for all ages. Visitors can learn about migrating birds, emerging plants, and the changing ecosystems of southeast Missouri while enjoying the center’s trails and exhibits. Prucinsky encourages families, students, and outdoor enthusiasts to check the March schedule and take advantage of the free programs that highlight the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. 🌿🐦🌼

In early **2026, the United States and Israel launched a major coordinated military campaign against Iran—dubbed Operation Lion’s Roar by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the U.S.—targeting Iranian nuclear, missile, and military infrastructure and resulting in the deaths of key Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and significant retaliation across the region. Against the backdrop of this sharp escalation, Asaf Romirowsky, Executive Director of Scholars for Peace in the Middle East (SPME) and a historian of Middle Eastern affairs, has emphasized the broader ideological and geopolitical stakes shaping American and allied policy, framing the conflict as part of a long-standing confrontation with Islamist forces that extend beyond conventional battlefields into academic, cultural, and political arenas—a perspective consistent with his scholarship on Middle East policy and the narratives that influence Western perceptions of regional threats.

Democrats are making energy increasingly unaffordable for working families through aggressive regulations, restrictions on domestic production, and subsidies that distort the market, according to Jason Isaac, CEO of the American Energy Institute. Isaac argues that policies limiting oil and natural gas development, fast-tracking costly renewable mandates, and expanding federal oversight have driven up electricity and fuel prices, placing the heaviest burden on low-income households and small businesses. He contends that restoring American energy dominance through expanded production, streamlined permitting, and consumer choice would lower costs, strengthen grid reliability, and enhance national security.

A new statewide survey shows a majority of Illinoisans support the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit, a proposal supporters say would expand educational opportunity and empower parents with more choices for their children. Dylan Sharkey, Communications Manager for the Illinois Policy Institute, says the data reflects growing frustration among families who feel trapped in underperforming schools and are looking for flexible, student-centered solutions. Sharkey notes that the tax credit would incentivize private donations to scholarship-granting organizations, helping low- and middle-income students access schools that best meet their needs, while easing financial pressure on working families across the state.

A Cape Girardeau County ballot initiative is underway that would allow voters to decide whether to implement a freeze on real estate property taxes for seniors age 62 and older, effectively preventing further increases in county property taxes for qualifying older homeowners. The effort follows new Missouri legislation enabling counties to adopt a Homestead Property Tax Credit for seniors, but only if local voters opt-in, and Cape County residents have been gathering signatures to get the measure placed on the ballot. One of the local organizers and spokespersons for the initiative is Cape County resident Phyllis Diebold, who has emphasized how rising costs for utilities and everyday essentials are straining seniors on fixed incomes and making it harder for them to stay in their homes

Indiana has become the 18th state to ban ranked-choice voting after Governor Mike Braun signed Senate Bill 12 on February 24, 2026, prohibiting any local government from using ranked-choice voting for its own elections — even though no jurisdiction in the state currently uses the system. The move aligns Indiana with a growing national trend of states moving to restrict alternative election methods, with supporters saying it preserves simplicity and clarity at the ballot box. Jason Snead, Executive Director of Honest Elections Project Action and co-chair of the national Stop RCV coalition, has been a vocal advocate for the ban, urging lawmakers to act on concerns that ranked-choice voting complicates vote counting and undermines election integrity.

Iranian People Lead the Overthrow while External Forces Accelerate the Collapse with U.S. Senator and Non-Nuclear Proliferation Ambassador Dr. Kazem Kazerounian explores the growing unrest inside Iran and the mounting pressure from abroad that could hasten a dramatic political shift. Dr. Kazerounian examines how widespread dissatisfaction among the Iranian people—driven by economic hardship, political repression, and demands for greater freedom—has fueled grassroots resistance movements determined to chart a new future. At the same time, he analyzes how international sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and strategic actions by global powers are compounding internal instability and accelerating the regime’s vulnerability. Drawing on his expertise in nuclear non-proliferation and U.S. foreign policy, Dr. Kazerounian offers insight into what a potential transition could mean for regional security, global energy markets, and the broader balance of power in the Middle East.

24 Hours of Unbroken Prayer brings together students, coaches, and community members in a powerful display of faith and unity, as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes continues its mission of impacting lives for Christ. Joining us to share the vision and spiritual significance of this special event is Regional Director of International Advancement for the Missouri Region at Fellowship of Christian Athletes Todd Cramer, who explains how this around-the-clock prayer initiative strengthens athletes on and off the field. Cramer highlights how dedicating an entire day to continuous prayer not only deepens personal faith, but also builds stronger teams, schools, and communities grounded in purpose, encouragement, and hope.