LC Godfrey campus Main Complex renovations move forward
By MELISSA CROCKETT MESKE Managing Editor, Illinois Business Journal [email protected] Progress marches on as the $50 million renovation of the historic Main Complex at Lewis and Clark Community College’s Godfrey campus takes next steps. Dr. Lori Artis, LC’s vice president of strategic engagement, provided an update during the RiverBend Growth Association’s virtual Community Conversations…
Read More‘Midnight Madness’ returns to World Wide Technology Raceway in 2026
After a record-setting 2025 Ranken Technical College Midnight Madness Fueled by NOS Energy Drink season, the popular Friday night event returns with nine events for the 2026 season at World Wide Technology Raceway. The street-legal car and motorcycle event will take place on the third Friday of each month beginning in March and concluding in…
Read MoreMolina Healthcare, Empyre Laundry, to provide free laundry day in East St. Louis
Molina Healthcare of Illinois (“Molina”) is continuing its partnership with Empyre Laundry to bring free laundry days to the East St. Louis community. Through the Clean Start Community Day Laundry Program, residents and local community members are invited to wash and dry up to three loads of laundry at no cost. Laundry detergent, dryer sheets, and support staff…
Read MorePrairie Cardiovascular welcomes Dr. Prasad Kandula to O’Fallon
Prairie Cardiovascular recently welcomed Prasad V.N. Kandula, M.D., to its team at 3 St. Elizabeth Blvd. in O’Fallon, Ill. The official announcement noted that Dr. Kandula is a board-certified cardiologist who provides “patient-centered care grounded in respect, compassion and clear communication.” He has served the Belleville/Southern Illinois community for over 25 years and, “is dedicated…
Read MoreThird Judicial Circuit Court announces associate judge vacancy
The Illinois Supreme Court has authorized the Third Judicial Circuit Court to post this notice of vacancy for an associate judge. Announced by Chief Judge Christopher P. Threlkeld on Dec. 17, 2025, this vacancy is based on the impending resignation of Hon. Janet R. Heflin, effective Jan. 31, 2026. Applications shall be taken from any…
Read More[Op-Ed:] Don’t let Illinois slide backward on disability services
By JOSH EVANS President and CEO Illinois Association of Rehabilitation Facilities (IARF) For years, Illinois was known as a state that chronically underfunded services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) — the essential workers who provide daily care, skill building, medication assistance, and community access — were paid wages…
Read MoreU.S. Attorney’s Office announces results of ‘Operation Safe Christmas’
The fugitive apprehension operation netted more than 60 arrests of criminal offenders, including Granite City man charged with shooting local police officer FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, Ill. – On Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois announced the results of a fugitive roundup effort jointly handled by federal and state…
Read MoreIllinois Manufacturers’ Association hosts 2025 annual luncheon, honors Manufacturer of the Year
The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) recently hosted its 132nd annual luncheon at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, bringing together business leaders, elected officials and other stakeholders to celebrate the state’s dynamic and diverse manufacturing industry, which contributes more than $580 billion to Illinois’ economy each year. During the luncheon, Ferrero, the fastest growing confectionery company…
Read MoreNew BBQ restaurant offering unique food additions at Fairmount Park Casino & Racing
Chicago ownership group opens country-western barbecue restaurant and bar As the St. Louis foodie scene continues to grow, one new Metro East restaurant is making a name for itself with its experienced ownership group and accomplished head chef. Longshots, a country-western barbecue restaurant and bar, opened at Fairmount Park Casino and Racing earlier this year,…
Read MoreDecember small business honoree: Rebranded, but still rooted in the Riverbend
Alton Elite Jiu-Jitsu has been chosen as the December 2025 Small Business of the Month by the RiverBend Growth Association. Owned by Adam Marburger, the honoree has undergone a recent rebranding, transitioning from its former identity as Alton Martial Arts & Fitness. Located at 2716 Corner Court in Alton, Marburger opened operations eight years ago…
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