12 other inmates hospitalized, 77 are isolated with symptoms By JERRY NOWICKI Capitol News Illinois jnowicki@capitolnewsillinois.com SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health reported 461 new cases of COVID-19 and eight new deaths in the state Monday as an outbreak worsened at Stateville Correctional Center in Crest Hill. IDPH said one of the deceased…

The following column is by O’Fallon Mayor Herb Roach. No doubt, COVID-19 has in some way affected each and every one of us. However, though things at time seem confusing and sad, there are times when we see the best in people. This reminds us of how great O’Fallon is. This weekend, the sun was…

State Rep. Monica Bristow, D-Alton, is highlighting new programs created to address the new obstacles due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Several newly announced programs, including the Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan Fund and the Hospitality Emergency Grant Program, were created to address specific challenges to small businesses and the hospitality industry. “Small and local businesses…

PHOTO: Dr. Ngozi Ezike, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, gives an update on the state’s COVID-19 response Sunday in Chicago. Governor: Peak in cases expected ‘sometime in April’ By REBECCA ANZEL Capitol News Illinois ranzel@capitolnewsillinois.com SPRINGFIELD — Illinois officials on Sunday announced the largest one-day jump in confirmed novel coronavirus cases and…

A second person, a woman in her 30s, has died in a COVID-19 related case in St. Clair County, St. Clair County Public Health Department reported today. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the latest victim of COVID-19,” County Chairman Mark Kern said in a statement. “This is another tragic loss…

Grocery stores to implement crowd control; Medicaid rules to be eased By PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com The Illinois Department of Public Health announced Saturday it has confirmed 13 new deaths from the novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19, including an infant in Cook County who had tested positive. IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said during…

Madison County reports first coronavirus illness related to a long-term care facility resident Madison County Health Department reported two new positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) on Saturday, including the first case connected to a long-term care facility. Director of Madison County Health Department Toni Corona said a Madison County woman in her 70s residing in…

Officials still hopeful the shows will go on this summer at county, state fairgrounds By REBECCA ANZEL Capitol News Illinois ranzel@capitolnewsillinois.com SPRINGFIELD — The social distancing guidelines that led Illinois county fairs to cancel off-season events on their grounds through the end of April is one part of a financial impact double-whammy, a trade official…

PHOTO: Gov. JB Pritzker on Friday announced the expansion of SNAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, benefits during his daily coronavirus update news conference in Chicago. (Credit: blueroomstream.com) Announces new efforts to enhance SNAP benefits, help homeless find shelter By JERRY NOWICKI Capitol News Illinois jnowicki@capitolnewsillinois.com SPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker announced new measures benefitting…

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE. – As a result of the uncertainty and disruptions caused by COVID-19, Scott Air Force Base officials announced Friday that they have decided to cancel its 2020 Air Show & Open House, which was set for May 30-31, featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. “We took our time to carefully consider…