Stories from Friday, March 1, 2024

The Scott County Commission honored several employees who were celebrating anniversaries for their years of service with a special recognition Feb. 20 during the commissioners’ meeting at the Scott County Courthouse in Benton. Pictured are front row, from left: Aldean Owens, five years, highway department laborer; Jesse Burrell Jr., 10 years, highway department laborer; John Chambers, five years, sheriff’s office lieutenant and jail administrator; Leechia Wilder, five years, prosecuting attorney’s office child support enforcement; Danny Finley, 10 years, sheriff’s office captain; and Sheila Evans, 40 years, chief deputy collector; and back row: Second District Commissioner Donnie Kiefer, Presiding commissioner Danny Tetley and First District Commissioner Terry Cole.. ...

This past Sunday one of our scripture readings was Mark 8:31-38. This is the story of Jesus telling his followers that he will suffer, be rejected and die. Peter, not wanting any part of a future where Jesus will suffer and die, rebukes Jesus, basically telling Jesus not to take the path into this future. In response, we hear a very familiar rebuke of Jesus to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan.” Jesus is not going to let Peter lead him away from God’s plan of salvation which is found in the cross...

I am sure Donald Trump could use some extra funds to help pay for all his legal expenses. Maybe he should think about selling his own line of salves and lotions which contain orange dye. A lot of people would like to be orange like he is, and the product might just be a good match with his new line of gold sneakers. I hate myself for sending this to Speakout, but I like humor.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Augusta Shearer Sasser Matthews was joined with Christ on Feb. 29, 2024. Augusta was affectionately known as Gusta by her grandchildren. She was proud of her three boys and their families.  Augusta was born in Uvalde, Texas, at midnight. ...

SIKESTON — Citizens looking for something new to do in the gym this March may participate in the YMCA of Southeast Missouri’s March Madness Exercise Challenge. Eric Chapell, director of regional programming at the YMCA, said the March Madness Exercise is for anyone who wants to try something new this month. ...

Gina Williams/Standard Democrat Workers continue to tear down the building of the former Green Meadows Assisted Living Center on North Kingshighway Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024, in SIkeston.

SIKESTON — For nearly 80 years, the Sikeston American Legion has brought visitors from around the state and region every September for its annual Cotton Carnival. The Legion also conducts annual fundraisers to assist local veterans and community organizations...

SIKESTON — SEMO Christian Academy in Sikeston recently completed its annual candle fundraiser, which, for 25 years, has allowed preschool students to learn about fundraising and get involved in the community. Jeanie Price with SEMO Christian Academy said the kids began selling the candles on Feb. 5 and had all of their orders turned in by Feb. 23. This year the students sold a total of 401 candles...