rural

Rural areas are losing grocery stores to consolidation faster than their urban counterparts — but some communities have come up with innovative solutions.

A private equity firm shuttered rural hospitals in Missouri a year ago. It's now facing state and federal investigations, as well as lawsuits.

In the tiny community of Cuba, Kansas, the annual 'Rock-A-Thon' features a unique and longstanding tradition: a rocking chair marathon.

Engineers and psychologists at Missouri University of Science and Technology are using computer modeling and real-world interviews to see if a mobile cancer radiation truck could bring care to far-flung patients in rural parts of the state.

Since 1992, Broadway Café in the heart of Westport has remained a central part of Kansas City's coffee scene. Plus: Ice skaters in mid-Missouri have to drive up to two hours in order to find a rink where they can practice their sport, but these two teens aren't letting that stop them.

It's already hard to become a competitive figure skater. But it's even harder in rural Missouri, where there's just one ice rink within a two hour drive: Washington Park Ice Arena in Jefferson City.

Kansas has nearly 4,000 turbines, many taller than the Statue of Liberty. People see blinking lights for miles, but now radars can help preserve the night skies.

Rural America is not known for its public transportation. But as its residents get older faster than their urban counterparts, the need is increasing. Some communities are finding ways to provide rides.

With small towns on the decline, some residents in western Kansas are trying to brainstorm ways to keep their rural lifestyles alive. Their answer? Youth rodeos. Plus: One Kansas City orchestra wants to inspire the next generation of jazz artists.

As small town populations decline, people in places like western Kansas look for ways to keep their rural farming and ranching lifestyle alive for the next generation. Some families think youth rodeo might be part of the answer.

Trucks are hauling oil-drenched soil to a landfill near Omaha. Crews are building a five-acre pond to continue treating contaminated water.

The Keystone's biggest spill ever happened on Dec. 7 in Washington County. The cleanup is ongoing.