- Rocket Daily News

Former Welfare Director Admits Diverting Funds to Ex Athlete in Ongoing Fraud Trial

Monday, January 12 by Lauren McKinzie

A former state welfare director testified Friday that he funneled contracts and jobs to a former professional athlete using funds intended for the state's neediest residents. Mark Thompson, the former head of the Central State Department of Social Services, spent more than seven hours testifying... Read More.

River City Water Rate Hike Could Be Reduced if City Assumes Bond Debt Amid Ongoing Fee Dispute

Friday, January 9 by Lauren McKinzie

A position paper submitted this week to a federal judge could provide a potential path for reducing a proposed water rate increase, though it would require the city to assume an additional $40 million in financial obligations. The document was presented to U.S. District Judge... Read More.

Southern Elegance Bridal Expo Inspires Couples With Local Wedding Planning Showcase

Thursday, January 8 by Lauren McKinzie

With the arrival of a new year, couples across the region are looking ahead to wedding season—and one local event is helping them get a head start on planning. The Southern Elegance Bridal Expo returned for its fourth annual showcase, filling the River City Event... Read More.

Renewal House Offers Women a Fresh Start Through Faith and Community Support

Wednesday, January 7 by Lauren McKinzie

As the New Year begins, many set out to achieve fresh goals and shed old habits. For women enrolled in the Renewal House Program at Hope Haven Ministries, this season marks a chance at transformation—a path from brokenness to wholeness. “It’s the hardest thing I’ve... Read More.

Main Street in Oakridge to Undergo Major Safety Upgrades Following Federal Grant

Tuesday, January 6 by Lauren McKinzie

Main Street in Oakridge is set to receive significant improvements aimed at enhancing safety for all road users. City officials announced that Oakridge has been awarded a $15.6 million grant through the Federal Highway Administration’s Safe Streets and Roads for All implementation program. The initiative... Read More.

The Pioneers Rewrite the Record Books

Monday, January 5 by Lauren McKinzie

From the rise of a transfer quarterback from the NCAA Division II ranks at the helm of their offense to a dramatic late-season coaching change on the cusp of their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance, the Westfield Pioneers have delivered under pressure. Pioneers head coach... Read More.

Riverbend Discovery Center Hosts Noon Years Eve Celebration for Kids and Families

Friday, January 2 by Lauren McKinzie

The Riverbend Children’s Discovery Center welcomed families to its annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, offering a daytime alternative to traditional late-night New Year’s events tailored specifically for children and their caregivers. The event, which ran from 10 a.m. to 1... Read More.

Community Group Reinvents Vision Boards with Classic Childhood Game for Creative Goal Setting

Monday, December 29 by Lauren McKinzie

A local community group has brought a fresh spin to the traditional vision board experience by fusing it with a beloved childhood game, giving attendees a unique approach to setting their goals for the year. The event, hosted by The Crafty Collective at the Maplewood... Read More.

Willow Creek Association Plans New LIFT Center to Support Youth and Seniors in Brookfield

Saturday, December 27 by Lauren McKinzie

The Willow Creek Association has announced plans to construct a new L.I.F.T. Center near downtown Brookfield, aiming to provide expanded programs and resources for the city’s youth and senior citizens. Samantha Green, Executive Director of the Willow Creek Association, described the future center as a... Read More.

Grandmother Speaks Out After Teen Assaulted at Football Game Urges Action Against Rising Youth Violence

Tuesday, December 23 by Lauren McKinzie

The grandmother of a 14-year-old boy who was violently assaulted during a high school football game is speaking out, determined to raise awareness about what she describes as a surge in youth violence. On November 21, Marsha Edwards dropped off her grandson, Jaylen, at a... Read More.

Author: Lauren McKinzie

Former Welfare Director Admits Diverting Funds to Ex Athlete in Ongoing Fraud Trial

River City Water Rate Hike Could Be Reduced if City Assumes Bond Debt Amid Ongoing Fee Dispute

Southern Elegance Bridal Expo Inspires Couples With Local Wedding Planning Showcase

Renewal House Offers Women a Fresh Start Through Faith and Community Support

Main Street in Oakridge to Undergo Major Safety Upgrades Following Federal Grant

The Pioneers Rewrite the Record Books

Riverbend Discovery Center Hosts Noon Years Eve Celebration for Kids and Families

Willow Creek Association Plans New LIFT Center to Support Youth and Seniors in Brookfield

Grandmother Speaks Out After Teen Assaulted at Football Game Urges Action Against Rising Youth Violence

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