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When I was a freshman in high school, I was summoned before my local city council over their objections to my FFA project. Their inflexible position forced my family to make a tough decision: if I wanted to keep my project operating—which is ultimately how I paid my way through college—my family and I would be forced to leave town. After multiple attempts to change the city’s mind, we moved outside the city limits...

BB Road Fire Department is pleased to introduce you to Mary Ellen Williman and Sandra Weiss, who have graciously volunteered to be out soliciters for our department fundraisers. They are both dedicated workers, gathing much needed support from giving people like you. ...

One of the most gratifying things about being a state legislator is that, occasionally, the actions we take in Jefferson City have real impact on the lives of everyday Missourians. It is especially rewarding when children benefit from our decisions. I had one such occasion recently, as I received an update on a program to expand science and technology education in my Senate district...

A common misconception is that the Missouri General Assembly is in session throughout the whole calendar year, just as Congress stays in session the entire year. The fact of the matter is that the Missouri Legislature begins in early January and ends in May. ...

Over the weekend, we were all alarmed by the images of oil fields on fire in the Middle East. Historically, whenever there is global uncertainty around the security of the world’s oil supply, it sends energy prices soaring, which impacts the day to day lives of the hardworking people here in southern Missouri just trying to make ends meet. ...

Some time back, I visited the local business of one of my constituents, and the conversations brought up during this meeting still continue to resonate with me. We discussed the Constitution, as well as the Framers’ intent on some of these issues. We discussed the point of the Oath of Office and how public servants are to uphold this sacred deed. ...

Nobody likes paying taxes. I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who enjoys writing a check to the government. The worst for many of us is that sales tax check we write to the Department of Revenue when we buy a new vehicle. The only thing that makes it bearable is that we get to deduct the price of a vehicle we sold from the value of the one we buy...

Every year, we promise to never forget. We recall where we were and what we were feeling on September 11, 2001. I remember being in law school at Oklahoma City University and knowing immediately the world would never be the same. But too often we fail to remember the totality of loss. ...

This week has been a tough week for my family and me. Earlier this week, my father passed away. It is never easy to lose a parent, and I, unfortunately felt that up close this week. Regardless of age, what they have accomplished in life, or what they have left behind, when a loved one says goodbye everything else is put into perspective. ...

I have always said that southern Missouri is home to some of the most dedicated and talented farmers, workers, and families anywhere. Our workforce has an undeniable strength and tenacity; employers are now recognizing this and finding out that our home is one of the best places to expand, invest, grow and hire...

Early this year, as the 100th General Assembly convened in a joint session, the governor appeared before lawmakers and vowed to make workforce development the cornerstone of his administration. Attracting new jobs and creating an environment where existing employers could grow and thrive were key to the well-being and prosperity of all Missourians, he said. If recent events are any indication, the governor is succeeding in delivering on his promise...

Questions about transitioning into Medicare Hello Toni: You have been referred to me as a resource that can answer questions I have about Medicare. I am turning 65 this December and have not discovered what I need to do to begin Medicare since I am still working?...

Last year, 426 Arkansas residents died from a drug overdose, according to death certificates filed with the state health department. That is an increase in fatal drug overdoses from 2017, when 417 people in Arkansas died from drugs. The data is from the most recent annual report issued by the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, which is administered by the health department...

Arkansas recently set a new record low for unemployment. The unemployment rate for July was 3.4 %, breaking the previous record of 3.5% last month. There are 19,200 more jobs in our state than this time last year. But the story of our work force does not end there. As we approach Labor Day, it’s worth taking a look at our state’s largest occupations, what occupations are in demand, and what occupations are paying the most...

America…. enroll in Medicare Part B at the right time! Hello, Toni: My husband, John retired several years ago when he turned 65. He enrolled in Medicare Part A but declined Part B because I put him on my Blue Cross Blue Shield policy provided by my employer. Lately I have read articles concerning failure to enroll in Medicare Part B and the penalties that one can have when they have delayed enrolling...

During any given day in the school year, there are 350,000 children riding a bus on Arkansas roadways. This week, legislators joined the Governor, Education Secretary Johnny Key, and state police in reminding drivers that Flashing Red means Kids Ahead...

With the opening of the 2019-2020 school year, there are 26 open enrollment charter schools in Arkansas. Two new ones are scheduled to open this year in Pulaski County. The state Charter School Authorizing Panel recently recommended approval of an application for a new school set to open in Bentonville in 2020-2021. When it opens, it will bring to 27 the total number of open enrollment charter schools in Arkansas...

It is estimated that less than 15 percent of children who qualify for free or reduced-priced school lunches in Arkansas are getting the same high-quality meals in the summer. Children shouldn’t go hungry just because school is out. That is why the Department of Human Services and the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance partner with schools, churches and community centers across the state to provide meals in the Summer Food Service Program. ...