Stories for June 2012
Friday, June 29
California fireworks cancelled - burn ban in force until further notice
"The California Fireworks show has been cancelled and there is a burn ban in force in California until further notice," said California Fire Chief Allen Smith Friday, June 29. "The heat and drought continue. There is no relief in sight."
Thursday, June 28
High court upholds key part of Obama health law
The Supreme Court has upheld the individual insurance requirement at the heart of President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul.
Wednesday, June 27
Obituaries Published in the June 27 California Democrat
Obituaries Published in the June 27 California Democrat.
Registration deadline nears for August primary
The deadline to be a registered voter and eligible to vote in the Aug. 7 primary election is Wednesday, July 11.
Vintage Airstream Club visits California
A long line of Airstream trailers owned by members of the Vintage Airstream Club stopped in at the historic Eitzen Mansion and were treated to tours and lunch courtesy of Rich and Pam Green.
Post offices will close for holiday; local office to observe summer hours
The California Post Office will close Wednesday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. There will be no mail delivery, retail sales or caller services.
California Democrat Community Calender for June 27
California Democrat Community Calender for June 27.
Independence Day parade and fireworks
California will once again have an Independence Day parade and fireworks, with the parade in the morning and the fireworks in the evening.
Be careful with fireworks in dry weather
As Independence Day nears and heat and dry conditions continue to dry the vegetation out, be careful in any use of fireworks.
Tuesday, June 26
Ribbon Cutting Held for Midwest Title and Escrow, LLC
Photos from the Ribbon Cutting/Open House Held at Midwest Title and Escrow, LLC, Thursday, June 21.
Local community health center to expand
The range of services is soon to be expanded at the local Community Health Clinic, located at 104 N. Gerhart Road, California.
Clarksburg Baptist hosts VBS
Clarksburg Baptist Church hosted its annual Vacation Bible School last week, June 18-22, where approximately 50 area youth ranging from preschool to sixth grade participated. A nursery was also provided.
Lupus Baptist Church Celebrates "Amazing Wonders Aviation"
Lupus Baptist Church held its Vacation Bible School from June 20-22. The theme was "Amazing Wonders Aviation: Encountering God's Awesome Power."
Former FBI Special Agent Speaks to Summer Reading Club
Paul Fennewald, former Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) special agent from 1981-2004, spoke Tuesday to the Tween/Teen Summer Reading Club at Wood Place Public Library, California, about crime scene investigation.
Board approves student, faculty handbooks
The student and faculty handbooks for the 2012-13 school year were approved by the California R-I School Board at the regular monthly meeting Tuesday, June 19.
Scholarship funds raised at Kiwanis event
According to California Kiwanis President Dr. Peter Kurowski, the cow pattie bingo fundraiser brought in almost enough to fund three $1,000 scholarships for high school graduates next year.
Photos of Wood Place Public Library storytimes for the the week
Photos of Wood Place Public Library storytimes for the the week.
California Stingrays open season at Fulton
The California Stingrays traveled to Fulton on June 6 to compete in their first swim meet of the 2012 season, where many were top finishers in their event.
MRED - need to market entire county
Ken Parrett, executive director of Moniteau County Regional Economic Development Council (MRED), spoke of inviting representatives of Tipton and California Chambers of Commerce to a future meeting of the economic development organization.
Friday, June 22
Six indicted for drug distribution in Cole and Moniteau Counties
Six men were charged in federal court Friday for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine in Cole and Moniteau counties.
Wednesday, June 20
Obituaries Published in the June 20 California Democrat
Obituaries Published in the June 20 California Democrat.
Rain holds off for Moniteau County Relay for Life
Participants of the American Cancer Society 12th Annual Relay for Life of Moniteau County were relieved to make it through the night without rain Friday at the Moniteau County Fairgrounds, California, considering last year's relay had to be cut short due to rain for the third consecutive year of the event.
Tuesday, June 19
Lupus Baptist Church to Hold VBS and Singalong
Lupus Baptist Church invites all to its upcoming events. First is the Vacation Bible School which will be held June 20, 21 and 22 starting at 5 p.m., with food, and running each night from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
California Democrat Community Calender for June 20
California Democrat Community Calender for June 20.
Ribbon Cutting held for new Moniteau County Democrats Headquarters
Photos from the Ribbon Cutting held for the new Moniteau County Democrats Headquarters Saturday, June 16.
New Hope Baptist Church Discovers God's Power During "Amazing Wonders Aviation" VBS
New Hope Baptist Church, Centertown, held its Vacation Bible School June 10-15.
Photos of the storytimes held at Wood Place Public Library
Photos of the storytimes held at Wood Place Public Library.
California Kiwanis Hosts Poker Run for Honor Flight
Bikers from the mid-Missouri area came together at California High School to show their support of the veterans at the California Kiwanis/Honor Flight Poker Run held Saturday, June 16.
Cancer survivor discusses nutrition
California resident and cancer survivor Jean Endsley discussed the importance of good nutrition before about 30 people at St. Paul's Lutheran Church Tuesday, June 12.
Chamber of Commerce hosts annual golf tourney
The California Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its ninth annual golf tournament Wednesday, June 13, at the California Country Club, where a total of 15 teams of three participated in the 18-hole event.
California Ford changes hands
Ownership of California Ford was transferred from long-time local dealer Larry Schenewerk to Steve Sakelaris, owner and Dealer Principal, and Mary Sakelaris, owner, on Monday, June 18.
VBS held at Lebanon Baptist Church
Lebanon Baptist Church, McGirk, hosted Vacation Bible School June 10-15, where approximately 45-50 youth participated in a week of "Amazing Wonders Aviation," learning about the different wonders of the world, such as the Grand Canyon and the Great Barrier Reef.
High Point Baptist hosts VBS
Approximately 35-40 youth ages 3 through sixth grade attended the High Point Baptist Church Vacation Bible School last week, June 10-15.
Fortuna Baptist Church Learn About God's Promises During "Adventures on Promise Island" VBS
Fortuna Baptist Church held its Vacation Bible School June 11-15.
Charles Chasen Finds Second Career Forming CC Computer Service
Charles Chasen said working with computers was something which happened after buying a full system Packard Bell tower in 1996.
Emergency dispatch board to seek increase
After a discussion of the need for additional funds, not only to continue needed upgrades, but to continue the present services of Moniteau County Emergency 911 Dispatch, the 911 Board approved placing a one-fourth of one cent sales tax increase on the November ballot.
Mid-Mo's Critical Care Transport in operation
The Mid-Mo Ambulance Critical Care Transport (CCT) became operational Monday, June 11.
Chamber Golf Tournament Success Discussed at California Area Chamber of Commerce Meeting
Becky Lawson, Chamber Board vice president, called to order the California Area Chamber of Commerce Board meeting held Thursday, June 14.
Capital projects technology funding for Tipton R-VI
Scott Jarvis, Tipton R-VI Superintendent, plans for capital projects funding for instructional technology.
Sunday, June 17
270 Deaths Later, Feds Accelerate Probe of Jeep Fires
A consumer group spelled out the problem in great detail more than two years ago
More than two years after a 69-page petition from the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) spelled out the problem, federal safety regulators are expanding their probe into gas-tank fires involving Jeeps, blamed for at least 270 fatalities.
Saving Money On Currency Transactions When You Travel
Having a credit card with no foreign transaction fees can be a big help
When traveling from one country to another, a credit card often makes it easier to navigate. Whatever the currency, plastic makes it nearly universal. It can also save you money.
Saturday, June 16
Asus PadFone: Rumored To Be On Its Way to the US
It's a smartphone, tablet and laptop, all in one ... sort of
If you think about it, many people don't just have one electronic device nowadays. Between their laptop, mobile device, and smartphone, many people are walking, breathing, gadget conventions.
Gas Prices Down Another Three Cents This Week
Global economic concerns have a silver lining for motorists
The price of gasoline continued to drift lower for another week, with the average price three cents a gallon less than it was a week ago.
Text Promising Gift Cards Is a Scam
Part of a growing number of schemes that target mobile devices
Unsolicited texts are annoying enough. Those that say you're won a gift card from Walmart or Costco are even worse – they're scams.
How to 'Have the Conversation' With An Older Parent
Aging expert advises to talk frankly about nursing home, end-of-life issues
Next to talking to your child about sex, probably the next most dreaded conversation is telling an aging parent you think they should move into a nursing home.
Feds Derail Bogus Health Insurance Scheme
Health Care One LLC agrees to settlement with FTC
It's bad enough having no health insurance, it's even worse to fall for a scheme that takes your money and returns nothing.
Friday, June 15
Banks Charge Non-Customers to Cash Checks
Closing your bank account doesn't mean you can escape fees
Once upon a time, if you received a check as payment you could take it to the bank on which the check was drawn and receive your money. It was a pretty straightforward transaction. But these days banks are looking for new sources of fee income and one place they've identified is non-customers.
Big Four Records Companies May Become the Big Three
Universal Music Group plotting an industry takeover?
What's interesting about the music business is that on the outside looking in, it appears there are many record labels around the world. Everyday a new a record company pops up, naming itself such and such records, or whatever catchy name its owners can think of.
Jury finds Joseph Spencer not guilty
Joseph Spencer, 39, formerly of California, was been found not guilty of murder by a Laclede County jury after less than two hours of deliberation.
Justice Department Opens Antitrust Probe of Cable Industry
Are cable companies conspiring to shut out competitors like Netflix, Hulu?
The Justice Department is said to be investigating whether Comcast, Time Warner and other cable companies have conspired to squash competition from the likes of Netflix and Hulu.
Low-Cost Airlines Outperform Majors in Latest Rankings
Consumers like low fares, but good customer service too
Overall, the level of customer satisfaction with air travel took a dip in the latest J.D.Power and Associates North America Airline Satisfaction Study.
Consumer Prices Dropped In May
Most of it came in savings at the gas pump
The U.S. Labor Department reports the Consumer Price Index (CPI), a measure of what consumers pay for goods and services, tumbled in May, but the savings came mainly in one area – the gas pump.
Foreclosure Numbers Rise In May
But there are still fewer foreclosures than a year ago
There are two ways to look at the current state of foreclosures. On one hand, activity spiked between April and May, but is down on a year-over-year basis.
Thursday, June 14
Jamaica Home to Many Phone Scams
Con artists can't spend all their time on the beach -- they have to work too
White sand beaches, plentiful sun, reggae music…and international phone scams?
Courts Shut Down 'Forensic Audit' Company
Consumer Advocates Group claimed it could help financially-troubled homeowners
A federal court has shut down a company that sold "forensic audits" that would supposedly help troubled homeowners avoid foreclosure.
Diesel Exhaust Found to Cause Cancer
World Health Organization now says there is conclusive proof
For the last 24 years the World Health Organization (WHO) has believed diesel exhaust to be a "probable" source of cancer. Now the agency has removed the world "probable" from the statement.
Wednesday, June 13
10 Car Models Dropped After 2012 May Be Bargains
Kelley Blue Book says some may be better values than others
What happens when an automaker decides to discontinue a model? Chances are the manufacturer and dealer will be willing to make deals to clear out their inventories.
Average Family's Net Worth Drops 38 Percent
Fed report suggests collapse of housing market to blame
The U.S. Federal Reserve has released a report that sheds light on the precarious financial state of the American family and may help explain why the economic recovery has been slow to take hold.
Too Little Sleep May Raise Stroke Risk
Researchers say it's an overlooked risk factor, especially for older adults
We generally think that high blood pressure and being overweight are the main contributors to stroke risk. But researchers at the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) say they have found another – too little sleep.
California Democrat Community Calender for June 13
California Democrat Community Calender for June 13.
California Native SSG Joe Hamilton Earns Bronze Star with Valor for Heroism While Serving in Afghanistan
The odds were against them. Their platoon was overwhelmed by an enemy force which had targeted them after placing themselves at an angle to attack from which would restrict most of the platoons weapons systems and attacking at the most vulnerable spot on the route they had to travel to get back to the hasty Patrol Base which they had set up.
Tuesday, June 12
Obituaries Published in the June 13 California Democrat
Obituaries Published in the June 13 California Democrat.
Jamestown C-1 School Board Meets
The Jamestown C-1 School Board held its regular monthly meeting on May 10.
CMS Pintos attend football camp
The annual California Middle School Football Camp was held last week, June 4-8, at the middle school practice field, directed by CMS Football Coach Ed Ziegs.
CPA Jason L. Blankenship Settles Into Role at Evers & Company, CPA's, L.L.C.
It was an offer too good to pass up. Join an accounting business close to home where he could do what he liked in the area he loved.
Seventh Annual Russellville Engine Show & Frog Leg Festival held
The seventh annual Russellville Engine Show and Frog Leg Festival was held in Russellville. Many competitions were held along with good entertainment and tons of visiting.
A moment of excitement at the third annual Phillips Field fly-in
Because of the vortex of wind on Saturday, June 9, there was a little more excitement than usual, especially for Bill Fowler, Jamestown, at the third annual fly-in of the CalMo Flying Club Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 429.
Storytime Held at Wood Place Public Library, California
Storytime Held at Wood Place Public Library, California.
Annual Pinto Football Camp held June 4-7
Approximately 65-70 boys in grades 9-12 attended the annual California Pinto Football Camp last week (June 4-7) at the California Middle School practice field.
Enon Baptist Church Goes to Sonrise National Park for VBS
Enon Baptist Church held their Vacation Bible School June 3-7.
Grace United Methodist and St. Paul's Evangelical Churches "Go Deep With God" During "Operation Overboard" VBS
Grace United Methodist, Jamestown, and St. Paul's Evangelical Church, Jamestown, held their joint Vacation Bible School June 4-6.
Indoor municipal swimming pool open
Swimmers at California's municipal indoor swimming pool which opened Monday, June 11, may take note of the improved appearance even if the extensive equipment and operation upgrades go unnoticed.
City Council Meets
The City of California Board of Aldermen took up several new business items at its regular monthly meeting on Monday, June 4, including an Eagle Scout project, a package liquor license, and general liability insurance bids.
Survey: Store Brands Can Knock 36% Off Grocery Bill
Biggest savings on buns -- 62%
What's the difference between an advertised brand and a store brand? Sometimes it's just the label.
Aflac Warns That Scammers Have Hijacked Its Name
Version of Sweepstakes Scam is using conterfeit Aflac checks
Aflac, an insurance company perhaps best known for its duck advertising mascot, is warning consumers its name has misappropriated by scammers.
Utility Surcharges, Fees Frustrate Consumers
Consumers are fed up with higher utility bills and especially with the increased use of fees and surcharges by utility companies, a report compiled by AARP finds.
Monday, June 11
Tips For Stronger Passwords
It's harder these days to stay a step ahead of the hackers
In the wake of the LinkedIn password hack, a lot of computer users are changing their passwords. But instead of changing it from “yourname1234” to “yourname4321,” why not select something a little harder to crack?
Friday, June 8
Another Reason to Count Calories
Restricting your daily calories to a healthy total will not just help you keep the pounds off. It just might help you live longer.
Parents Aren’t Monitoring Their Kids Mobile Device Behavior
Internet habits get more attention but mobile usage presents equal risks
Many of us who were born before the technological boom of the Internet era had limited access to information.
Stressful Life Events Linked to Cancer
A study of 91 patients at a university medical center suggests that a troubled early parent-child relationship in combination with a severe life event in the past year may be associated with immune responses...
Pew Study Finds Checking Accounts 'Risky'
Fees are rising and so are the number of disclosure pages
Consumer banking seems to be a lot more complicated than it once was.
Thursday, June 7
Gasoline Prices Still Falling
U.S. refineries step up their output, increasing supplies
Motorists continued to get a break at the gas pump this week as retail prices retreated another five cents a gallon nationwide.
Fruit and Vegetable Diet May Help You Stop Smoking
Could this be a cheaper way to kick the habit?
Reluctant smokers spend millions each year on smoking cessation programs and products, but maybe all that's needed is a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, along with a healthy dose of willpower.
J.C. Penney Utters Four-Letter Word
There, they said it. “Sale.”
Wednesday, June 6
A Blood Test To Diagnose Depression
Many teenagers suffer from emotional issues, and many parents can't tell if it's due to clinical depression or normal teen growing pains.
Before Getting Prepaid Debt Card, Check Out the Fees
There's no doubt that prepaid debit cards are growing in popularity among U.S. consumers, particularly those who don't have traditional bank accounts.
Auto Parts Suppliers Agree to Fines, Prison Sentences
Stockholm-based Autoliv Inc. has agreed to plead guilty for its role in a conspiracy...
Feds Shut Down Supposed Debt Relief Company
FDA Solutions claimed it could slice debt by 40 to 60%
The Federal Trade Commission has put a stop to the allegedly deceptive practices...
Regular Soda, Diet Soda, Zero-Calorie Sodas: What's Really Safe?
With New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg proposing a ban on the sales of large sodas and other sugar-based drinks, the national debate on healthy verse non-healthy beverages is at an all-time high
With New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg proposing a ban on the sales of large sodas and other sugar-based drinks, the national debate on healthy verse non-healthy beverages is at an all-time high.
Kiwanis "cow drop" fundraiser to be held
Kiwanis "cow drop" fundraiser to be held.
Tipton hazardous waste drop off Saturday
Tipton hazardous waste drop off Saturday.
Cole County R-1 School Board Meets
Cole County R-1 School Board Meets.
California Fire Department Has Great Weather for Annual Barbecue
There were clear blue skies Saturday, June 2, in California as the California Fire Department held its Annual Barbecue at the Village Green Shopping Center.
Tuesday, June 5
Obituaries Published in the June 6 California Democrat
Obituaries Published in the June 6 California Democrat.
California Democrat Community Calender for June 6
California Democrat Community Calender for June 6.
Upcoming Road Work for Mid-Missouri
Upcoming Road Work for Mid-Missouri.
Phillips Field Fly-in on Saturday
The annual June Turf Fly-in at Phillips Field is Saturday, June 9, from 9 or 10 a.m. to mid-afternoon, sponsored by Cal-MO Flying Club.
Storytime Held at Wood Place Public Library, California
Storytime Held at Wood Place Public Library, California.
Kixmiller retires after six years at PHS
Prairie Home School teacher Nancy Kixmiller is retiring after six years of dedicated service as the Music Director.
Stephanie Muri retires after 37 years at PHS
Business teacher Stephanie Muri is retiring after 37 years of service at Prairie Home School.
California Lanes/Robbie D's a Place for Fun Times and Good Food
Six years ago when California Lanes/Robbie D's Owner Rob Rimel took over California Lanes, he came in with experience working at the bowling alley in Tipton.
Fifth Graders Graduate Drug Education Program
The California fifth graders graduated from the Drug Education program Friday, May 11. The program began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by students Kaitlyn Turner, Miguel Garcia, Mike Rooney, Travis Barker and Taylor Ireland.
Special Olympics Bowlers wrap up season at California Lanes
The Russellville Special Olympics bowlers have been polishing their skills since August at California Lanes, bowling most Sundays throughout the season, which was concluded May 27 with a special show of appreciation to California Lanes owner Rob Rimel.
Photos from the Annunciation Catholic Church Picnic
Photos from the Annunciation Catholic Church, California, Picnic held Sunday, June 3.
Lake Area Community Orchestra Kicks Off 25th Year with Summer Concert Series Concert at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Russellville
Once again St. Michael's Catholic Church, Russellville, was packed with the many concert fans which came out for the opening concert in the 2011 Lake Area Community Orchestra Summer Concert Series held Tuesday, May 29.
Area youth attend Junior Pinto Football Camp
Approximately 52 area youth in grades 1-6 attended the annual Junior Pinto Football Camp May 29-31 at the California Middle School practice field, where they learned basic fundamentals of football, such as passing, receiving and blocking.
Council approves fire truck bid, discusses pool
The City of California Board of Aldermen approved a bid for a new fire truck at the regular monthly meeting, Monday, June 4, at the City Hall.
AARP Study Finds a Happiness Gap
Sure, you're happy. But are you happier than you were a few years ago?
Are you happy? If you're a bit less chipper than you were a year or two ago, don't feel bad...
Disney To Stop Junk-Food Advertising During Its Programming
The folks at Disney want children to eat healthier while watching their programming.
10 Ways to Avoid Costly Auto Repair Mistakes
Some people work on their cars and trucks themselves. Others take them to an auto service center.
Report: Insurers Can Manipulate Computer Systems to Broadly Underpay Injury Claims
Court documents shed light on insurers' huge but questionable savings
Large insurance companies routinely "lowball" personal injury claims to squeeze consumers and generate large profits, according to a report released by the Consumer Federation of America (CFA).
Military Families Still Hit by Predatory Lenders
American military men and women are still being victimized by predatory lending despite legislation that was supposed to put a halt to the most harmful practices.
Monday, June 4
Carpenter Bees Can Be Trouble For Your Home
Despite their name, carpenter bees are not handy with a hammer.
Are Your Tires Properly Inflated?
Quick, how many pounds of air are supposed to be in the tires on your car?
