a Better Bubble™

Aggregator

Granite City Firefighters Contain Rapid Lube Blaze Preventing Building Loss

4 months 2 weeks ago
Photos by Brayden Cook Photography GRANITE CITY Granite City firefighters responded quickly to a fire at the Rapid Lube service center on Friday, June 13, 2025, successfully containing the blaze and saving the building, Fire Chief Todd Richey said Tuesday, June 17, 2025. Rapid Lube announced on its Facebook page that the Granite City location is temporarily closed due to the fire. Rapid Lube expressed appreciation for customers’ understanding and patience. The company said it will provide updates on reopening as soon as possible. The fire started in the service area of the Rapid Lube location in Granite City. Firefighters faced challenges early on when a new fire hydrant main steamer cap was locked, but crews overcame the obstacle and aggressively attacked the fire, Richey said. “Our firefighters were real aggressive with attack,” Richey said. “We had issues right off the bat with a new fire hydrant main steamer cap was locked up but they overcame it and

Continue Reading

Edwardsville Police Begins Fourth of July Traffic Safety Campaign

4 months 2 weeks ago
EDWARDSVILLE – Edwardsville Police announced plans for July Fourth traffic enforcement with a focus on impaired and unbuckled drivers. The safety campaign will run from June 20 through July 7 to encompass three summer weekends leading up to and after Independence Day. “To ensure a safe Independence Day for everyone, we're asking for your cooperation. If you drive, don't drink or use cannabis or other impairing substances. Our officers will be diligently working to prevent impaired driving and to make sure all occupants are wearing their seat belts,” said Lt. Matt Senci. The Edwardsville Police will join the Illinois State Police and more than 200 local police and sheriff’s departments for the statewide effort. To celebrate safely, designate a sober driver and don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Other important tips include: • Give your designated driver your keys before you go out. • If you are impaired by alcohol, cannabis,

Continue Reading

How to Host a Summer Potluck with Friends and Family

4 months 2 weeks ago
Did you know that potlucks are one of the most effective ways to strengthen social bonds and create lasting memories? A 2019 study published in the Journal of Social Relationships found that sharing meals in casual group settings significantly enhances feelings of belonging and community. Hosting a summer potluck is more than just a convenient way to feed a crowd—it is an opportunity to connect, celebrate diversity in tastes, and foster a sense of togetherness. Setting the Scene: Choosing the Right Venue and Ambiance The foundation of any successful potluck begins with selecting an appropriate venue. Whether it’s your backyard, a local park with picnic facilities, or even a community center, the space should comfortably accommodate the expected number of guests and allow for easy movement and socializing. Consider the layout carefully. Create designated areas for food setup, seating, and activities. For instance, arranging tables in a buffet style near a shaded spot

Continue Reading