Columnists

The Missouri State Fair has been a proud tradition of our state since 1901. More than a century later, the fair continues to be a marque summer event that showcases the unique sights and sounds of the Show-Me State. The theme of this year’s fair is “Buckets of Fun.” I encourage anyone who can make…

For nearly 90 years, Social Security has provided financial protection to communities throughout the United States, including the Hispanic community. Today, our retirement, disability, and survivors benefits are an important source of income for Hispanics. Our Spanish-language website, www.ssa.gov/espanol, provides information for those whose primary language is Spanish. There, people can learn how to get…

When I was growing up, saying the wrong four-letter word would earn you a sampling of some fine bar soap. Nowadays though, it seems to be the three-letter government agencies giving Americans trouble—the EPA, the IRS, and even the SEC (no, not that one). First, the EPA tried to regulate every square inch of our…

We are too extreme in our expectations at times. We don’t just expect laws and court rulings to go our way, but we expect everyone to agree with our viewpoints once the decisions have been made in our favor. We expect the unconditional surrender of our political foes when the day is done, as all…

The August primary election is right around the corner. Every two years, Missourians get the opportunity to voice their opinions in the best way possible, which is by voting. If you’ve been following the candidates and issues that will be on the August ballot, then great — all that is left for you to do…

When you think you’re ready to retire, we’re here to help you make an informed decision about when to apply for benefits. You should decide based on your individual and family circumstances. Would it be better for you to start getting benefits early with a smaller monthly amount over a longer period? Or perhaps wait…

The primary election is upon us; therefore, it is important to have criteria in mind so the right fit is achieved for each position. For me, it isn’t necessary for the person running to be broadly experienced in the office sought; everyone starts somewhere. However, it is important the candidate be a quick learner. Otherwise,…

Back in March, I wrote about the devastating impact inflation was having on our infrastructure dollars and how rising prices are threatening to squander that funding. Since then, things have only gotten worse. Inflation just hit 9.1 percent last month with no signs of slowing down. It’s eating away at our infrastructure dollars even more…

We go to work. We put meals on the table. We make the car payments. We do what it takes to get by in this world. And during the very moments we are laboring so diligently to tread water in this unpredictable world, there is an entire thriving industry of cellphone-robo-calls being conducted by society’s…

Missouri is set to have a new law in place to help employers find and retain the best people for the job. Unfortunately, Missouri continues to see workforce shortages statewide. According to the Missouri Workforce Employer Survey Report, the largest shortages statewide continue to be in skilled trades, patient care, manufacturing and maintenance. One of…