News

In a sure sign that spring is not far behind, the first Purple Martins of the year have been spotted in Missouri. The birds were seen on March 3 in Willard by a Purple Martin enthusiast – one of many throughout the eastern and central United States who track and report on the birds’ annual migration on behalf of the Purple Martin Conservation Association.

CAMARILLO, Calif. (AP) — The average U.S. price of regular-grade gasoline shot up a whopping 79 cents over the past two weeks to a record-setting $4.43 per gallon (3.8 liters) as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is contributing to already-high prices at the pump.

St. Patrick’s Day is a time to celebrate Irish culture and everything green, including leprechauns and shamrocks. While shamrock is a well-known symbol of good luck, another interesting plant associated with good fortune is bells of Ireland, says University of Missouri Extension horticulturist Michele Warmund.

The Department of Social Services has begun accepting applications for the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), a new program that may be able to help with a one-time payment for water and/or wastewater bills. LIHWAP can help with disconnection or reconnection fees, threats to disconnect water or wastewater, and current or past due water or wastewater bills. The maximum benefit amount available is $750.

Blackwell sentenced to 12 years in DOC Last week, Alexander Blackwell was sentenced to 12 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections in Linn County Court. In a press release, Linn County Prosecutor Shiante McMahon said Blackwell will serve 8 years for second degree domestic assault as a prior offender, five years for a second charge of domestic assault and four years for unlawful use of a weapon will run concurrently to each other and the 8 years.

The Missouri Attorney General’s Office has released its list of the top ten consumer complaints they received in 2021. #10 - 689 - Professional services - This includes complaints about moving companies, towing, funeral homes, and cemeteries.

The recent rash of unseasonably warm weather has many gardeners anxious to get into their gardens. However, history shows that the last frost in NW Missouri generally comes no later than April 18th. So the chances of more cold weather, and yes snow, are still quite good. To help counter some of that excitement, you should consider starting some of your plants inside for transplanting to the garden when it warms us. While most plants can be direct seeded into the garden, many plants benefit from being started inside then transplanted outside.

Brian Baker is one of three people running for two seats on the Marceline City Council during the April 5 Municipal Election. Since moving to Marceline nine years ago Baker, who serves as Pastor at First Baptist Church of Marceline, has found himself involved in a variety of organizations, and when he heard about the opening on the council, decided this was a good time for him to run for office.

Long-time Marceline resident Todd Fellows is one of three people running for two seats on the Marceline City Council during the April 5 Municipal Election. Fellows moved to Marceline 22 years ago and said now is the perfect time for him to get involved in civic matters.