I am a native of Augusta, Ill., who now lives in Louisiana, Mo. My degree in journalism was earned in 1985 from Culver-Stockton College in Canton. Positions I have held include reporter at The Quincy Herald-Whig, assignment editor at KHQA TV and public relations officer at the North East Community Action Corporation (NECAC). I have covered floods, fires, governments, crime, schools, festivals and even a visit to the region by President Obama, but I prefer stories about area residents who have beaten the odds or done something inspirational. I am a huge history buff (Ask me about Champ Clark, John Brooks Henderson or Abe Lincoln’s visit to Augusta), love Cardinals baseball, Blues hockey and Rams football, and enjoy every second spent with my son. I am a good listener, try to keep an eye out for the uncommon and strive unequivocally for accuracy..
Brent Engel

NECAC Has Money for Summer Energy Assistance
Missouri residents who need help paying overdue utility bills can get help this summer.

NECAC Accepting Air Conditioners and Fans
A local agency needs help in keeping people cool this summer.
The North East Community Action Corporation (NECAC) is seeking donations of new and used working air conditioners and fans.

NECAC Gets Grant for Home Upgrades
Money to make homes more energy efficient is on its way to Northeast Missouri.

Deadline to Apply for Winter Utility Assistance is March 31
Time is running out to apply for utility assistance in Missouri. The deadline for the winter portion of the programs is March 31st

Biscuits for a Buck Friday in Pike County, Missouri
You can get a great meal and help a worthy cause Friday in Pike County Missouri.

NECAC Utility Assistance Season is Underway
NECAC kicked off the utility assistance season Nov. 1, and applications so far are down slightly from this point last year.

Bond Reduced for Pike County Murder Suspect
Bond has been reduced for a man accused of killing his stepson in Pike County Missouri.

Summer Utility Assistance May be Gone by the End of the Week
NECAC has less than $49,000 left for the summer utility assistance program. NECAC began the season June 1 with about $170,000 of extra funding due to the mild winter.

Argument Over Rabbits Leads to Felony Charges in Pike County MO
A man is accused of threatening to kill his sister after an argument over rabbits.

Champ Clark Bridge Replacement on State’s Proposed Five-Year Plan
Missouri says it’s found the dollars to replace the Champ Clark Bridge at Louisiana.
The project is included on a wide-ranging list of proposed construction over the next five years.