Features

BBB’s tips for buying a boat this summer

Summer 2023 is shaping up to be a big one for boaters headed to popular destinations like Table Rock Lake or Lake of the Ozarks. If you’re thinking of buying a boat this summer, make sure you’re prepared before you shop! According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), demand for boats has remained high

[ Read More ]

Missouri Geological Survey ceases on-demand printing services

On-demand printing and laminating services at the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Missouri Geological Survey in Rolla will cease operations. Free copies of topographic and mineral maps remain available to download for personal printing through the U.S. Geological Survey at usgs.gov/faqs/how-do-i-find-download-or-order-topographic-maps. Interactive geologic maps, research tools and other resources from the Missouri Geological Survey are

[ Read More ]

Sandy Crawford Capitol report

The magnificent display in the night sky and family gatherings are the thoughts of most during Independence Day. During the holiday that commemorates the birth of our nation, people come together to celebrate with parades, barbecues and fireworks. However, as we come together, do we remember what makes this day significant? The Declaration of Independence

[ Read More ]

BBB tips for spotting and preventing AI voice messages

You’re probably familiar with how AI can be used to generate text. But did you know that AI can generate voices, too? BBB and organizations like the Federal Trade Commission are warning consumers about a new type of scam: fake calls, voicemails and voice messages generated by AI. Researchers at McAfee recently found that scammers

[ Read More ]

BBB: Tips on how to find a home inspector

Peak real estate season is in full swing, and home inspectors are in high demand. An inspection is a critical step in buying a home. Home inspectors can uncover structural or mechanical issues that buyers need to discuss with the seller. However, finding a good home inspector can be intimidating. Licensing and certification requirements for

[ Read More ]

Many Missourians confused about the legality of birth control

There is considerable confusion about the legality of birth control in Missouri and many are worried about future access, according to a new survey of state residents. One in four (25%) Missourians do not believe or do not know that birth control pills — the most used form of contraception in the U.S. — are

[ Read More ]

BBB’s tips for using P2P payment apps safely

Peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, Zelle or CashApp are a convenient way to split checks, pay rent or purchase from small businesses. However, scammers are finding creative ways to get money from users. Unlike more traditional banking services, P2P payment apps are less likely to provide reimbursement for fraud – making the risk

[ Read More ]

MO Department of Agriculture warns producers about hay scams

The Missouri Department of Agriculture reminds livestock producers to be wary of potential scams involving hay sales. The Department has received reports from producers who paid for hay upfront through a wire transfer, only to have no hay delivered. Dry conditions across much of Missouri has left pastures short and hay scarce, causing many livestock

[ Read More ]

Joplin Chiropractor Indicted for Child Pornography

A Joplin chiropractor has been indicted by a federal grand jury for receiving and distributing child pornography. Eric Hedman, 39, was charged in a single-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Mo., on May 24, 2023. That indictment was unsealed and made public today upon Hedman’s arrest and initial court

[ Read More ]