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Illinois’ budget on track for deficit as new federal policies create challenges

State spending likely to increase significantly in coming years as Medicaid, SNAP requirements set in By BEN SZALINSKI Capitol News Illinois Article Summary The governor’s office now projects a $267 million deficit for the current fiscal year 2026 budget. Corporate tax cuts enacted at the federal level, combined with tariffs and declining consumer spending, is…

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Madison County Judge Sarah D. Smith returns from international military exercise

The Third Judicial Circuit of Madison County recently announced the return of the Honorable Sarah D. Smith, Circuit Judge, following her two-week mobilization to serve in a senior leadership role during Bright Star 2025, one of the largest multinational military exercises in the world. The exercise, held in Egypt, concluded in mid-September and brought together…

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St. Louis region offers dozens of programs building the manufacturing workforce of the future

Task Force marks National Manufacturing Month by highlighting the many educational institutions preparing students for high-demand careers in aerospace, avionics and advanced manufacturing With October marking National Manufacturing Month, a time when communities across the country celebrate modern manufacturing, the St. Louis region stands out as a hub for manufacturing education and workforce development with…

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17th annual Alton Miles for Meso Run/Walk raises $25K for mesothelioma awareness

  Simmons Hanly Conroy and the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) are highly appreciative of the Alton community for its support of the successful 17th annual Alton Miles for Meso 5K Race and 3K Fun Run/Walk. Held Sept. 20, the event raised $25,000 to continue ADAO’s mission to eliminate asbestos-related diseases. One of the nation’s largest mass…

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New report: Illinois independent music, performance venues contribute $3.9B to economy

National study indicates 78 percent of independent stages in Illinois are struggling with unprofitability due to inflation, Live Nation, and predatory ticket resale On Oct. 8, 2025, the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) unveiled the economic impact findings from the regional The State of Live report — the first comprehensive national study examining the economic…

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