Missouri will ring in the new year by boosting its minimum wage from $13.75 to $15 an hour, a notable leap that puts the state ahead of many others. This move also highlights the ongoing national conversation over fair compensation and the “fight for $15.”

Lewis Chemical Company recently announced a significant acquisition aimed at reinforcing its foothold in Rome, Georgia. The move could generate new opportunities for the community and solidify the firm’s local presence.

With critical highways and bridges aging across the United States, political leaders are revisiting the notion of raising the gasoline tax. As the nation’s infrastructure shows signs of serious wear, supporters argue a higher fuel tax might be crucial for road and bridge repairs.

Black unemployment has shot up from 6% to 8.3% in just six months, outpacing the rise in overall joblessness. As the Trump administration continues to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, experts warn of a cascading effect on Black workers—especially Black women—in both public and private sectors.

Ontario International Airport anticipates a milestone in holiday travel this year, with passenger volumes poised to exceed 7 million. This surge reflects the airport’s growing prominence in the region, welcoming both business and leisure travelers.

A recent commentary spotlighted the third significant development in the push for a trail-only option in the Valley. While full details remain behind a paywall, the call for exclusivity indicates rising urgency in creating trails that could serve both local communities and broader economic goals.

EPA chief Lee Zeldin reaffirms his agency’s commitment to helping West Virginia maintain its coal-powered energy production. In a nod to local leadership and historical precedent, Zeldin points to the state’s ongoing reliance on coal-fired power plants as a foundation for its economic stability.

Crawford County Memorial Hospital does more than provide critical healthcare services. Last year, the facility injected $70.7 million into the local economy and supported 595 jobs, demonstrating the pivotal role hospitals can play in community development.

Ohio’s natural riches are worth $1.7 billion, according to a newly released report from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Sand, gravel, coal, and other geologic commodities continue to bolster the state’s economy.

The Army Corps of Engineers is suspending $11 billion in infrastructure projects because of the ongoing government shutdown, according to White House budget director Russell Vought. He attributes the freeze to a lapse in federal funding, describing it as the result of a “Democrat shutdown.”