a Better Bubble™

Aggregator

US farmers face $44 billion in losses as costs rise and markets shrink

2 months 2 weeks ago
Soybeans sit in storage, farm bankruptcies are rising, and total farm debt continues to climb. By nearly every measure, American farmers are struggling. Experts say financial pressures are expected to continue mounting. Due to rising costs, low crop prices and the effects of the trade war, economists project that growers could see roughly $44 billion […]
Juan Vassallo

Governor Pritzker Launches $32 Million in Funding for Regional Site Readiness Program

2 months 2 weeks ago
SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced $31.5 million in funding as part of the Regional Site Readiness Program – an infrastructure grant program designed to help communities attract businesses, create jobs, and support community renewal. Through the program, entities can apply for funding to begin planning and prepare unused or unsuitable sites – such as abandoned factories or brown fields – for business or community development. “For too long, Illinois communities were left with moribund sites and missed opportunities because state government wasn’t acting as a true partner — that era is over,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Through our Regional Site Readiness Program we’re investing in the groundwork that fuels growth. From site preparation and infrastructure improvements to community revitalization, we’re leaving no stone unturned as

Continue Reading

Bring the whole family for some down-home fun to Theis Farm!

2 months 2 weeks ago
MARYLAND HEIGHTS — Theis Farm has pumpkins of all sizes, apples, greens, jams and more! Let the kids play on the playground while your peruse the market. Pumpkins are $10 and will last you through the Thanksgiving holiday. Get your autumn pumpkin for $10 at Theis Farm! For more information, visit
Varkita Quinn

Fatal Pedestrian Accident Investigation Underway

2 months 2 weeks ago
ST. LOUIS COUNTY - St. Louis County police officers from the South County Precinct responded at 7:44 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, to a report of a motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian. Upon arrival, officers found an adult male who had been struck by a vehicle. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital but later died from his injuries. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators from the Bureau of Crimes Against Persons and the Accident Reconstruction unit. The investigation remains active. Officials ask anyone with information about the incident to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477), where a reward may be available.

Continue Reading

Bethalto Family Expresses Pride in Sophee Brown's Air Force Service

2 months 2 weeks ago
BETHALTO - Bethalto native Sophee Brown has served in the U.S. Air Force since 2023 as a Private First Class in the Military Police unit. Brown, who currently holds this rank, joined the service to protect the United States, according to her family. Brown, a twin, left behind her sister to answer the call to serve. "Sophee is my niece and is a twin. She left behind her sister to serve our country," said Lisa Woulfe, a family member. Woulfe added, "She is my hero as she is brave and so driven to protect the US. Our family is so proud of her." Brown’s service reflects a commitment to national security, and her family continues to express pride in her dedication. Submitted by Lisa Woulfe. How to submit Submitting a tribute is simple. You can fill out our Veteran Salute form at http://contribute.riverbender.com/page/veteran-salute , or email us at news@riverbender.com.

Continue Reading

DHS, White House Shrug Off Having Their Social Media Lies Pointed Out To Them

2 months 2 weeks ago
It surprises absolutely no one that the Trump administration lies. Trump himself has been lying constantly ever since his first spin in the resolute desk chair. His new administration is right there with him this time around, ensuring we see nothing but a flood of falsehoods all the time. The administration knows it’s lying. We […]
Tim Cushing

Marine Richard Moody Honored For Vietnam War Sacrifice

2 months 2 weeks ago
FOREST HOMES - Forest Homes native Richard F. Moody, a Marine who served during the Vietnam War, was killed in action on Dec. 21, 1965. Moody, who joined the Marines on his 18th birthday in 1965, held the rank of Private First Class at the time of his death. Moody was awarded the Purple Heart along with three other medals and one bar in recognition of his service. His family remembers him as dedicated, noting that he enlisted on his 18th birthday. His sacrifice is part of the broader history of Marine service members who fought in Vietnam, reflecting the commitment and loss experienced by many during the conflict. Submitted by Brenda Copeland. How to submit Submitting a tribute is simple. You can fill out our Veteran Salute form at http://contribute.riverbender.com/page/veteran-salute, or email us at news@riverbender.com.

Continue Reading

Shipman Veteran Preston Mathis Served in U.S. Navy

2 months 2 weeks ago
SHIPMAN - Preston F. Mathis, a veteran from Shipman, served in the U.S. Navy from 2005 to 2009, participating in Operation Enduring Freedom. Holding the rank of ABF3, Mathis was assigned to the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) during his service. Deonia Mathis submitted this Veteran Salute. How to submit Submitting a tribute is simple. You can fill out our Veteran Salute form at http://contribute.riverbender.com/page/veteran-salute, or email us at news@riverbender.com.

Continue Reading