Inflation rose again in April, continuing a climb that has pushed consumers to the brink and is threatening the economic expansion, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Wednesday. The consumer price index, a broad-based measure of prices for goods and services, increased 8.3% from a year ago, higher than the Dow Jones estimate for an 8.1% gain. That represented a slight ease from March’s peak but was still close to the highest level since the summer of 1982.
Source: CNBC

Buhler-based internet provider IdeaTek received a shout-out this week from President Joe Biden during a press conference at the White House on an initiative to bring free or reduced-price internet service to those who struggle to afford it. IdeaTek is one of about 20 providers in the nation participating in the FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program, or ACP, and the only Kansas-based one. The company has participated in the program since it was started in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now it is expanding the effort further as additional federal funding was authorized, said Jade Piros de Carvalho, the company’s director of industry & community relations. Under the program, the federal government will cover $30 a month for service for those who qualify.
Source: Hutch News

The Haven City Council voted to remove decals stating “In God, We Trust” from Haven Police Department vehicles at the City Council meeting Monday, May 2. Haven Police Chief Stephen Schaffer described the varied support from the community, some in favor of removing the decals and some against the removal. “(The Haven City Council) brought it up as a motion during council concerns. Within a few minutes, they just voted and seconded that it was a done deal,” Schaffer said.
Source: Hutch News

A recent decision in a Reno County town to remove decals with “In God We Trust” from police department vehicles has led to questions about similar items on Cowley County Sheriff’s Office trucks, with local officials saying the decals have mostly been well-received. The Haven City Council voted May 2 to remove “In God We Trust” decals from all police vehicles after a citizen complaint, according to The Wichita Eagle. The motion, which was approved unanimously, also required Haven Police Chief Stephen Schaffer to remove a post including a scripture quote from the department’s Facebook page.
Source: ctnewsonline

The interest rate table above illustrates recent changes in a sample of MBIS “investment grade” yields. Every issuer’s credit is different. For rates that may be applicable to your municipality, contact our Municipal Bond Advisors, Larry Kleeman and Beth Warren.