RE: beginning of rut in MO
I agree with what everyone else is saying. Up north it will start a little sooner than down here in the southern part of the state. It's not always completely accurate, but usually the weekend closest to halloween can be a good judge.
Kinda off the subject, but i've hunted the Atlanta area, and know pretty close to where you are talkin about. Would your family be interested in leasing any land?