The latest local news, weather and high school sports in and around Columbia and Jefferson City

Saturday, June 08, 2013  The move by the state Department of Natural Resources comes after a change in federal requirements allowed public water suppliers to begin posting their annual "consumer confidence reports" online instead of mailing them to customers. The reports include information about water sources and details about the amounts of contaminants found in tests of drinking water.

Monday, May 20, 2013  In survey, economists say consumers are poised to boost spending, offset government cuts

Friday, May 17, 2013  Organic industry's political clout grows on Capitol Hill as consumers demand organic foods

Monday, April 08, 2013  Airline passenger complaints are surging as airlines continue to cram more seats into the same tube.

Thursday, April 04, 2013  Eyes on Facebook mobile event as social network evolves from Web-based roots

Thursday, March 21, 2013  US mink farms grow as Chinese consumers' demand for fur coats sends pelt prices skyrocketing

Tuesday, January 29, 2013  States require those receiving unemployment to use bank cards laden with fees rather than depositing the benefits directly into a bank account, a consumer group reports.

Thursday, December 27, 2012  The average number of people seeking unemployment benefits over the past month fell to the lowest level since March 2008, a sign that the job market is healing.

Wednesday, December 26, 2012  U.S. shoppers spent cautiously this holiday season, a disappointment for retailers who slashed prices to lure people into stores and now must hope for a post-Christmas burst of spending.

Monday, December 24, 2012  Christmas shoppers thronged malls and pounced on discounts but apparently spent less this year, their spirits dampened by concerns about the economy and the aftermath of shootings and storms.

Monday, December 03, 2012  Eliminating the $1 bill could save taxpayers plenty over the next 30 years

Tuesday, November 27, 2012  Holiday shoppers head online in droves to pick up Cyber Monday deals

Monday, November 26, 2012  A record number of shoppers boosts the first weekend of holiday shopping season

Monday, November 26, 2012  White House: Threat of tax hikes could lower consumer spending during holiday season

Monday, November 12, 2012  Food labels multiply, confuse consumers, claiming to certify array of sustainable practices