John Deere, the world’s largest agricultural vehicles manufacturer, is investing $13.5 million to expand its Strafford, Missouri “remanufacturing” facility by 120,000 square feet. Kevin Schrag, the factory manager, sums it up perfectly: “That's a pretty big deal!” … [Read More...] about John Deere invests $13.5 million in Strafford, Missouri facility
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John Deere invests $13.5 million in Strafford, Missouri facility
Lexington gas explosion kills young boy and injures two family members
A five-year-old boy has died and two members of his family remain in critical condition following a devastating gas explosion at a home in Lexington, Missouri. The incident occurred shortly before 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9, at a residence near 18th Street between Franklin and South streets. … [Read More...] about Lexington gas explosion kills young boy and injures two family members
Millions take part in nationwide and international protests against Trump and Musk
More than 1,200 "Hands Off!" demonstrations took place across the United States, uniting thousands in opposition to the policies and actions of President Donald Trump and his advisor, Elon Musk. The protests, which took place on April 5, were held in various settings, from small towns to major … [Read More...] about Millions take part in nationwide and international protests against Trump and Musk
More than 50 nations ask for trade negotiations over sweeping tariffs imposed by Trump
In response to the recently imposed tariffs by President Donald Trump, over 50 nations have approached the US administration to initiate trade negotiations. These tariffs, which include a 10 percent levy on most US imports and higher rates for approximately 60 countries, have led to significant … [Read More...] about More than 50 nations ask for trade negotiations over sweeping tariffs imposed by Trump
Senator Hawley backs Trump’s new tariff plan, calls it ‘a win for Missouri workers’
Missouri Senator Josh Hawley has voiced strong support for former President Donald Trump’s newly announced trade policy, which includes sweeping tariffs aimed at addressing what Trump describes as an “economic emergency”. On Thursday, Trump unveiled a broad proposal that would impose elevated … [Read More...] about Senator Hawley backs Trump’s new tariff plan, calls it ‘a win for Missouri workers’
Society
Opinion: Why so many jobs are going unfilled, and what it means for Missouri and the US
In towns and cities across Missouri – and throughout the country – it’s becoming harder to miss the signs: “Help Wanted”. They hang in shop windows, hospital lobbies, factory entrances, and farm gates. And yet, millions of Americans remain unemployed, and many more have left the workforce … [Read More...] about Opinion: Why so many jobs are going unfilled, and what it means for Missouri and the US
Glendale named safest city in Missouri for 2025
Glendale has been ranked the safest city in Missouri, according to a new report published by community research organization SafeWise. The 2025 list is based on the latest FBI crime statistics, combined with resident perceptions of safety collected through a national survey. The city, located in … [Read More...] about Glendale named safest city in Missouri for 2025
Columbia Police arrest man after standoff for making threats with weapon
At about 8:30 a.m. April 11, Columbia Police responded to calls that a man was threatening people with a weapon in the 100 block of North Stadium Boulevard. Through their investigation, police officers identified the man as Michael Whited, 59, of Columbia. A standoff with Whited ensued for … [Read More...] about Columbia Police arrest man after standoff for making threats with weapon
Missouri marks National Mule Day
“Boone, George, get up!” As the pair of 1,500-pound gentle giants begin walking around the College of Veterinary Medicine’s parking lot, their horseshoes clank on the concrete. The magnificent mules — known for their intelligence, loyalty, work ethic, playful nature and strength — are … [Read More...] about Missouri marks National Mule Day
Economy
Inside Missouri’s factories: How automation is transforming manufacturing jobs
Automation is rapidly transforming Missouri’s manufacturing sector, reshaping job roles, enhancing productivity, and attracting significant investments. Here's an in-depth look at how automation is influencing the state's industrial landscape. … [Read More...] about Inside Missouri’s factories: How automation is transforming manufacturing jobs
Agriculture
John Deere invests $13.5 million in Strafford, Missouri facility
John Deere, the world’s largest agricultural vehicles manufacturer, is investing $13.5 million to expand its Strafford, Missouri “remanufacturing” facility by 120,000 square feet. Kevin Schrag, the factory manager, sums it up perfectly: “That's a pretty big deal!” … [Read More...] about John Deere invests $13.5 million in Strafford, Missouri facility
Missouri net farm income takes another dip in 2024
Missouri net farm income is projected to decline in 2024, for the second consecutive year. That’s the latest from the University of Missouri’s Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center’s (RaFF) Fall 2024 Missouri Farm Income Outlook. Published bi-annually, the report provides state-wide … [Read More...] about Missouri net farm income takes another dip in 2024
Features
Inside Missouri’s factories: How automation is transforming manufacturing jobs
Automation is rapidly transforming Missouri’s manufacturing sector, reshaping job roles, enhancing productivity, and attracting significant investments. Here's an in-depth look at how automation is influencing the state's industrial landscape. … [Read More...] about Inside Missouri’s factories: How automation is transforming manufacturing jobs
How AI is reshaping Missouri’s jobs market
Missouri, the 19th most populous state in the US, boasts a population of approximately 6.28 million as of 2025. The state's largest cities include Kansas City (510,704 residents), St. Louis (281,754), Springfield (170,188), and Columbia (129,330). Economically, Missouri is diverse, with key … [Read More...] about How AI is reshaping Missouri’s jobs market
Opinion: Why so many jobs are going unfilled, and what it means for Missouri and the US
In towns and cities across Missouri – and throughout the country – it’s becoming harder to miss the signs: “Help Wanted”. They hang in shop windows, hospital lobbies, factory entrances, and farm gates. And yet, millions of Americans remain unemployed, and many more have left the workforce … [Read More...] about Opinion: Why so many jobs are going unfilled, and what it means for Missouri and the US
How and why Missouri and America is grappling with a labor shortage
Missouri’s economy, like much of the United States, is at a crossroads. On one hand, job openings abound in nearly every industry. On the other, businesses – from farms to factories – are struggling to find enough people willing to work. The result is a paradox that’s defining the post-pandemic … [Read More...] about How and why Missouri and America is grappling with a labor shortage
Missouri at risk: How Trump’s tariffs could hit farming, manufacturing, and logistics
By South County Mail Staff Writer As global markets continue to tumble in the wake of former President Donald Trump’s sweeping new tariffs, industries across Missouri – from soybean fields to factory floors – are bracing for impact. The tariffs, which have triggered retaliation from key … [Read More...] about Missouri at risk: How Trump’s tariffs could hit farming, manufacturing, and logistics
Politics
City of Independence officials planning to move to new building
In early 2024, the City of Independence purchased a vacant building: 20201 Jackson Drive, formerly the Landmark Building or the Government Employees Health Association (GEHA) building. Currently, the City of Independence plans to move most City departments to the building in Spring 2025 to increase … [Read More...] about City of Independence officials planning to move to new building
Industry
Independence voters make history with passage of first-ever ‘General Obligation’ bond
Voters in the city of Independence, Missouri have “handpicked” projects proposed in the City of Independence’s first-ever general obligation (G.O.) bond, paving the way for targeted investments while leaving some projects unfunded – for now. On Tuesday, voters approved select portions of the $197 … [Read More...] about Independence voters make history with passage of first-ever ‘General Obligation’ bond
Centennial Commission offers incentives to celebrate Route 66 in Missouri
The Missouri Route 66 Centennial Commission is launching several sponsorship opportunities for communities celebrating the Mother Road – Route 66, which originated in Springfield, Missouri in the 1920s. Programs include a special event sponsorship program, signature tour stop design competition and … [Read More...] about Centennial Commission offers incentives to celebrate Route 66 in Missouri
Technology
How automation is changing jobs in South County and across Missouri
Automation is quietly but steadily transforming the job landscape across Missouri – from advanced manufacturing plants in suburban South County to sheltered workshops in rural communities. While much of the national debate focuses on whether robots will take people’s jobs, the reality in Missouri is more complex: some roles are being displaced, but others are […]
Employment in Missouri’s IT sector grows by 1 percent
The Information Technology industry includes information sector employment such as software publishers and data processing, as well as professional and technical services such as computer system design, technical consulting, and research and development services. Information Technology represents 3.9 percent of total private sector employment in Missouri, employing 97,068 workers across 18,277 establishments in 2023. Employment […]