Chrystal Blair
Reporter with Missouri Public News ServiceChrystal Blair is a veteran news broadcaster with more than 30 years of experience in radio and television reporting, producing, and writing. She was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and earned a degree in Communication/Radio, Television, Film from Eastern Michigan University.
Prior to starting her career, Chrystal worked as a flight attendant for a major airline, indulging her passion for travel. After a year of flying, she relocated to Los Angeles, California, where she began her career as a reporter at a community public access television station. While working at the station, Chrystal was selected “Reporter of the Year” for the community news awards.
Since then, Chrystal has worked in television and radio for several mainstream media affiliates and has been honored with several prestigious awards, including CBS Radio’s “World Class Performer” award.
In addition to her professional pursuits, Chrystal has a passion for performing arts and has acted in several professional plays. She is also an animal lover and cares deeply for animal welfare. During her leisure time, she enjoys spending quality time with her rescued dog and cat.
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Missouri’s new congressional boundaries could take effect as soon as Thursday, even though voters submitted more than 300,000 signatures to block them. The clash between Secretary of State Denny Hoskins and the repeal campaign is now driving one of the biggest election-law battles in the state. -
Conservationists in Missouri say a rare cave system is directly connected to the drinking water many residents rely on. A newly protected habitat in Perryville is the only home of the endangered grotto sculpin, (GRAHTTO skull pen), a tiny fish that signals whether the underground water supply is healthy. -
Missouri farmers are feeling the strain after the U.S. Department of Agriculture abruptly pulled funding for the Heartland Regional Food Business Center, a program that helped small producers access markets and upgrade equipment. Local farm leaders warn the loss could stall growth and weaken Missouri’s local food networks. -
A Missouri mental health specialist says the holiday season can intensify depression and anxiety in children and teens, which often shows up as irritability rather than sadness. In a Kansas City webinar, she urged families to watch for early signs and connect kids with support. -
Retail experts say Missouri shoppers may see less variety and subtle quality changes this Black Friday, as importers scale back due to tariffs and soft demand. Companies are quietly cutting costs by offering fewer toys and accessories and using cheaper materials. -
Holiday stress is real – and this year, many families are feeling it more than ever amid financial uncertainties. The American Heart Association has tips on how to stay grounded and guard your peace this season. -
With food insecurity affecting roughly 13% of Missouri households and food prices rising, many families can’t afford a traditional Thanksgiving meal. One Branson nonprofit is making sure those in need can enjoy a good holiday meal and much-needed companionship -
As Thanksgiving approaches, Missouri families are caught in the middle of a national food aid fight. A federal court ruling Friday (11/7) would have forced the Trump administration to pay full SNAP benefits, but the decision was paused following an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. Local pantries are scrambling to meet the growing need. -
Many Missourians are starting the week without the safety net they’ve relied on to get by – and a new report warns Missouri’s child poverty rate could climb sharply if federal food assistance ends. -
Some of Missouri’s rural hospitals are fighting to survive. Eleven have already closed, and more than 30 are still at risk. Nationwide, more than 150 rural hospitals have closed since 2010.
