‘Drop in the bucket’: Illinois measures to offset SNAP cuts will not alleviate problem
Advocates say devoting state funds to food pantries will not fill gap left by federal shutdown By MAGGIE DOUGHERTY Capitol News Illinois Article Summary JB Pritzker signed an executive order allocating $20 million to state food banks and food pantries in preparation for a pause in SNAP benefits expected to go into effect Saturday. “Two…
Read MoreTier 2 pension reform bill moves forward, but Pritzker says there’s ‘a lot more work’ to do
Measure calls for enhanced benefits, but at a significant cost for both state and local governments By PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois Article Summary A House panel passed a Tier 2 pension reform Wednesday, but only after promising to hold further action until the spring. Advocates say the reform is needed because the benefits under…
Read MoreUnited impact: The strength of United Way of Greater St. Louis
United Way of Greater St. Louis (UWGSL) has been a beacon of hope and stability for more than a century, helping neighbors navigate uncertainty and crisis. Whether it’s providing food assistance, housing support, or disaster relief after events like the May 16 storms, UWGSL is there—just as we have been for the past 103 years.…
Read MoreO’Fallon area chamber hosts recent ribbon cuttings: Why Knot Massage, Memorial Shiloh
The O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting in Fairview Heights (5621 Old Collinsville Road) for Why Knot Massage & Self Care LLC on Oct. 28 to celebrate its grand opening. Owner Sabrina Luttrell-Andrews can be seen in the accompanying photo, provided by the Chamber, holding the oversized scissors and preparing to cut the…
Read MoreCity of Belleville shares list of community resources for those in need
The City of Belleville has published the accompanying list of community resources for the Belleville area for those in need of support. The official announcement further stated that these locations also are likely accepting donations if you are in a position to do so. The city’s General and Community Assistance office is located at 512…
Read MoreO’Fallon to host annual Veterans Day observance, parade on Nov. 11
O’Fallon will hold its annual Veterans Day observance and parade on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. The observance event will begin at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 1111 E Hwy 50, O’Fallon, Ill. The event will feature a guest speaker, Major General Charles D. Bolton, USAF, Commander, 18th Air Force, AMC; as well as participation…
Read MoreSIUE launches Illinois film, TV workforce training program
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Department of Mass Communications is lighting up new opportunities in the state’s growing film and television industry. With a supporting grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), SIUE is launching a film and TV workforce training program to prepare the next generation of Illinois media professionals.…
Read MoreSIUE’s ‘The Alestle’ wins 18 national college journalism awards
The Alestle, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s student news organization, recently won 18 national awards during MediaFest 25, the annual convention for student journalists and industry professionals sponsored by the Associated Collegiate Press and College Media Association, held this year in Washington, D.C. The Alestle won first place in five CMA Pinnacle Awards — Arts…
Read MoreOasis Pools wins second Pinnacle Award for luxury outdoor living excellence
“The Château Escape” celebrated as a top 50 project worldwide by Luxury Pools + Outdoor Living Oasis Pools has received a 2025 Pinnacle Award from Luxury Pools + Outdoor Living, marking the company’s second consecutive year earning one of the industry’s highest honors. The internationally recognized Pinnacle Awards spotlight just 50 exceptional projects from around…
Read MoreRep. Kevin Schmidt selects Hartmann Turf & Tractor as his ‘Business of the Month’
After receiving submissions from across the 114th District, State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) has named Hartmann Turf & Tractor his “Business of the Month” for October 2025. Rep. Schmidt presented Mike Hartmann and Cheryl Hartmann Young with an official certificate of recognition for their continued success and exceptional service to the community of Millstadt. “The…
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