Real Talk with Riggin

WIN Luncheon December with Retail & Membership Director Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce Janna Clifton

The Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its December WIN Luncheon, where Retail & Membership Director Janna Clifton says attendees can expect an energizing blend of networking, community updates, and year-end inspiration. Clifton highlights that the Women’s Impact Network continues to grow as a platform for local professionals to connect, share ideas, and support one another, and this month’s luncheon will celebrate that momentum while looking ahead to new opportunities in the coming year.

Colorado Catholics Ask SCOTUS for Equal Treatment with Senior Counsel at the Becket Fund for religious liberty Nick Reaves

Colorado Catholics are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to step in and ensure they receive equal treatment under the law, a case now drawing national attention. Senior Counsel at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty Nick Reaves explains that the dispute centers on whether the state can exclude Catholic organizations from participating in public programs solely because of their religious beliefs. Reaves says the petition urges the Court to reaffirm that the government cannot discriminate against faith-based groups when they serve the public, stressing that equal access and fairness are essential constitutional protections.

Big Band Holiday Jukebox, Mercy’s Sounds of the Seasons, Frisson Ensemble’s A Classic Christmas with SEMO Chairperson and Professor of Music and Art + Design Nick Kenney

SEMO Chairperson and Professor of Music and Art + Design Nick Kenney highlights a festive lineup of performances coming to the region, including the Big Band Holiday Jukebox, Mercy’s Sounds of the Seasons, and Frisson Ensemble’s A Classic Christmas. Kenney says each event brings its own unique flair to the holiday calendar—from the swinging energy of big band favorites to the warm, traditional tones of choral and instrumental classics—offering the community multiple ways to celebrate the season through world-class music.

Save Our States sends letter to the Admin to uphold Rule 1033 with Executive Director at Save Our States Trent England

Save Our States is urging the Administration to uphold Rule 1033, sending a detailed letter that underscores what Executive Director Trent England calls a critical safeguard for state authority and the integrity of the Electoral College system. England emphasizes that Rule 1033 helps ensure federal agencies respect constitutional boundaries and avoid overreach into state-managed election processes. He argues that maintaining the rule is essential for preserving the balance of power and protecting the framework the Founders intended, and he hopes the Administration’s response will affirm its commitment to those constitutional principles.

low-income minority students test scores lag with Policy Analyst at the IL Policy Institute Hannah Schmid

Low-income minority students continue to face persistent achievement gaps, and Policy Analyst at the Illinois Policy Institute Hannah Schmid says those disparities are tied less to students’ abilities and more to systemic barriers that limit opportunity. Schmid points to chronic underperformance in many schools, inadequate access to experienced teachers, and policies that restrict families from choosing better-performing options as key factors holding students back. She argues that improving transparency, expanding educational choice, and redirecting resources toward proven classroom strategies can help close the gap and ensure that every student—regardless of income or background—has a fair chance to succeed.

Merry Main Street Mile with Director at Jackson Parks and Rec Jason Lipe

The Merry Main Street Mile returns this season, bringing festive fun and family-friendly fitness to downtown Jackson with the help of Jackson Parks and Recreation Director Jason Lipe. Lipe says the one-mile holiday run is designed for all ages and abilities, offering a cheerful kickstart to the city’s annual Christmas festivities as participants make their way down a decorated Main Street glowing with lights, music, and community spirit. It’s a simple, energetic way to celebrate the season, get people moving, and highlight the charm of Jackson’s historic downtown during the holidays.

Agriculture Education on the Move with SE Region Coordinator Rick Aufdenberg

Agriculture Education on the Move is bringing hands-on learning to classrooms across the region, and Southeast Region Coordinator Rick Aufdenberg says the program is opening students’ eyes to where their food, fiber, and fuel really come from. Aufdenberg explains that through interactive lessons, demonstrations, and real-world ag connections, kids gain a deeper understanding of Missouri’s number one industry while also discovering potential career paths in agriculture. He says educators appreciate the ready-to-use resources, and students walk away excited, informed, and more connected to the farms and farmers who help feed the world.

Concordia Lutheran Church Authentic German Christmas Market with Spokesperson Debi Porter

Concordia Lutheran Church is bringing Old World charm to the season with its Authentic German Christmas Market, and spokesperson Debi Porter says the community can expect a festive celebration filled with traditional holiday sights, sounds, and flavors. Visitors can stroll through vendor booths offering handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and authentic German-inspired foods while enjoying live music and family-friendly activities. Porter notes that the event is designed to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects both German heritage and the spirit of Christmas, making it a perfect way for families to kick off the holiday season together.

1 in 3 Young Americans Believe Political Violence Is Justified with Attorney and Republican Strategist Peter Lumaj

Attorney and Republican strategist Peter Lumaj joined us to discuss a troubling new survey showing that 1 in 3 young Americans believe political violence can be justified, a statistic he says reflects deep cultural, institutional, and political fractures in the country. Lumaj emphasized that this shift in attitudes is a warning sign that civic norms are eroding, fueled by polarization, misinformation, and a lack of confidence in democratic processes. He urged leaders, educators, and communities to recommit to teaching constitutional principles, civil debate, and respect for differing viewpoints, stressing that America’s stability depends on restoring a shared belief that change must always be pursued through peaceful and lawful means.

Grandparents for Vaccines with Community Outreach Coordinator and PIO at S. 7 Health Dept Shawnna Rhine

Grandparents for Vaccines is gaining momentum in Southeast Missouri, and Community Outreach Coordinator and Public Information Officer at the S7 Health Department, Shawnna Rhine, says the initiative is all about empowering older adults to help protect their families. Rhine explains that grandparents often play a pivotal role in family health decisions, and this campaign encourages them to stay informed, share accurate vaccine information, and lead by example. Through outreach events, educational materials, and community conversations, the program aims to strengthen trust, improve vaccination rates, and support healthier households across the region.