SUMMARY: The invasive spotted lanternfly, first found in Pennsylvania in 2014, is spreading westward and could soon reach Missouri. Experts warn it poses a serious threat to the state’s wine industry and other crops like apples and hardwoods. The bug feeds on plant sap using piercing mouthparts and excretes a sticky substance called honeydew, which promotes mold growth and attracts pests like wasps. Known to lay eggs on metal surfaces, it spreads easily via vehicles. Missouri agriculture officials are monitoring the situation closely and urge the public to report sightings to help prevent potential damage to crops and urban environments.

Experts worry that a new, invasive insect making its way across the country could soon arrive in Missouri.

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SUMMARY: Daniel Robert, 48, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced to life in federal prison for leading a major cocaine trafficking ring in Southern Illinois. Convicted on five federal charges, including conspiracy to distribute cocaine and witness tampering, Robert oversaw a network that moved nearly 721 pounds of cocaine between 2014 and 2018. Ten co-defendants from multiple states pleaded guilty to related drug and money laundering charges. The operation involved couriers, drug payouts, and vehicle seizures, including a Mercedes and a Chevrolet truck. The cocaine had a street value of $1 million. The prosecution dismantled a widespread, multi-state narcotics network.

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SUMMARY: A new workplace trend called “quiet cracking” refers to employees feeling unfulfilled and disengaged at work, lacking job satisfaction and growth opportunities. A Gallup report found over 50% of U.S. employees are not engaged, with 17% actively disengaged. Experts attribute this to pandemic-related disruptions rather than generational differences. The segment “Blair’s Social Second” encourages viewers to share how they stay motivated at work. Suggestions include maintaining a routine, particularly for parents during summer, and finding joy in meaningful tasks—like storytelling or helping others—which can reignite motivation and purpose in the workplace. Viewer responses will be shared in a future segment.

What do you do to stay motivated and engaged in the workplace?

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