SUMMARY: Junior Mariott, 59, from Marshfield, won the Missouri State Fiddling Championship at the state fair in Sedalia. A lifelong fiddler from Stover, Missouri, he has claimed the title numerous times since his first win at age 16 in the 1980s. The contest requires playing various styles—breakdown, waltz, and others—across multiple rounds, including a demanding round robin that tests players’ versatility. Marriott values progress over trophies, saying the competition encourages learning Missouri’s rich fiddling history. Influenced by family musicians and champion fiddler Travis Inman, Marriott now runs a music studio and helped revive the Lee Stoneking Memorial Fiddle Contest, aiming to preserve Missouri’s deep fiddling tradition.

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SUMMARY: A recent Fox Business report reveals only 28% of U.S. homes are affordable for typical households due to high mortgage rates reducing buying power by nearly $30,000 since 2019. However, St. Louis remains more affordable, with a median home price of $295,000 compared to the national $400,000. Rising prices have delayed first-time buyers, now averaging 39-40 years old, and increased rental demand. Despite low inventory, homes in St. Louis sell faster than the national average. Emotional and financial stresses affect buyers and sellers, who should prepare for unexpected costs and detach emotionally. Expert advice emphasizes understanding the process and seeking support to reduce stress.

A new Fox Business report reveals that only 28% of U.S. homes are currently affordable for the typical household, highlighting a …

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SUMMARY: A heartfelt reunion unfolded in North Saint Louis County between Sheila Calvin, a home explosion victim, and Ricky Man, a good Samaritan who rushed to help during the crisis. Ricky arrived just after the explosion on Ebonair Drive, called 911, and comforted 18-year-old Deonte Anthony Jr., who suffered burns on 85% of his body. Despite the chaos, Ricky stayed with Deonte until emergency services arrived. Sheila expressed deep gratitude, calling Ricky a hero. Now bonded, Sheila and Ricky are working to visit Deonte in the hospital. Meanwhile, community leaders and first responders continue aiding over 20 affected families with donations and support.

Sheila Calvin put out a call to find the man who helped when a home explosion rocked her St. Louis County neighborhood.

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