Millions of Americans are facing a growing problem of so-called food deserts. With America's rural population shrinking, grocery stores in many of those areas are closing. At least 40 million Americans live in food deserts nationwide. In rural areas, that means residents live at least 10 miles from a grocery store and 20% are low-income. Unlike many grocery stores in rural America, St. Paul, Kansas has one that will never shut its doors. James and Kelly Voorhies run the only local market, but the city owns it — a unique arrangement to keep food available. Source: CBS News

About a decade ago, downtown Hutchinson had more empty buildings than full, with at least every other storefront without a restaurant, office space or retailer. Today, only a few buildings remain vacant or underdeveloped, with more than 50 new businesses moving in since 2017. The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce and multiple small businesses worked to continue the success of downtown, bringing out of town traffic and locals into their shops. “It’s been a great experiment in leveraging local support from the city. Our Chamber resources and partnerships who want to be part of making a vibrant place that people want [...]

As a school psychologist in Olathe, Lina Kitson is part of the team of teachers, administrators and support staff that diagnose and intervene when a student might start showing mental or behavioral health issues. “People often miss mental health as being a part of our role,” she said. “But it’s a big part, and we provide mental health supports either directly or indirectly.” It’s a busy job, especially since she splits her time between two elementary schools, or about 800 students total. Even then, she knows she has it relatively easy, at least compared to some of her colleagues across the [...]

Concerts, conventions, drag races and demolition derbies regularly draw large numbers of visitors to Topeka, said Mike Bell. A list of some of the most popular of those gatherings was shared with The Capital-Journal by Bell, who is vice president of sports sales and marketing for Visit Topeka Inc., the city’s official destination marketing organization. Bell added that Topeka will break new ground in terms of encouraging tourism next month by doing something it’s never done before — hosting a travel conference. Source: CJonline

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.