As I stood three people back in line at a Starbucks inside a local Hy-Vee store yesterday, I could sense the frustration brewing...sorry had to...on the barista's face. Once it was my turn at the counter, she apologized and took my order. Small Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew in case you were wondering. I asked her if she normally worked alone during such a peak time. Her answer was 'no', but they were short-staffed. Starbucks isn't the only place finding it hard to find dependable employees, but the company announced steps they plan on taking to bring in more workers.

Starbucks announced yesterday that they will be raising pay for all U.S. employees and making changes to improve working conditions in stores. WQAD reports that all Starbucks employees will make at least $15 per hour, and up to $23 per hour, by next summer. In late January, all employees with two or more years of service will get a 5% raise. Those with five or more years of service could get up to a 10% raise. Employees can also get a $200 bonus for recruiting new people to work for the company.

The company on Wednesday also said that they are redesigning and updating their training guide, and giving employees more training time, according to WQAD. Starbucks also is looking at ways to better streamline prep areas and may test a new cold beverage station in some stores. All of the moves come as several Starbucks locations in Buffalo, New York are trying to form a union. The company says that yesterday's announcements had nothing to do with those plans.

Iowa Kids & Pets Rock Adorable Halloween Costumes

We asked listeners to share their kids' and pets' cute Halloween costumes, and they delivered! Here are a few of our favorites!

A Sneak Peek Look Inside Circle of Ash Haunted Attraction

Circle of Ash Haunted Attraction, located at the Linn County Fairgrounds in Central City, is opening for the season this week! Take a look at all three haunts before you visit in 2021.

More From Q98.5