Illinois State Police breaks ground on new canine training facility
The Illinois State Police (ISP) and Capital Development Board (CDB) broke ground on a new canine training complex on April 9, 2026. The $8.9 million state investment consists of two new buildings, including upgraded kennels, training areas, and office space. “Here in Illinois, we’re proud to support our State Police as they…
Read MoreFirst Mid earns Top Workplaces USA award for third consecutive year
First Mid Bancshares Inc. (First Mid) has earned a 2026 Top Workplaces USA award, marking the third consecutive year the organization has received this national recognition. The award reflects First Mid’s ongoing commitment to creating an environment where employees feel engaged, supported, and empowered to succeed. “This recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the…
Read MoreHSHS hospitals to offer high schoolers summer healthcare bootcamps
Applications due May 2; opportunities available at HSHS hospitals in Breese, Greenville, Highland and O’Fallon High school students interested in a career in health care are invited to apply for the Summer 2026 High School Healthcare Bootcamps at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese, HSHS Holy Family Hospital in…
Read MoreAlton Main Street announces 2026 volunteer opportunities to support downtown revitalization
Alton Main Street is seeking community-minded volunteers to join its team for the 2026 season. As historic Downtown Alton continues to experience a surge in economic development and cultural activity, the organization is inviting residents to lend their time and talents to a diverse lineup of festivals, markets, and beautification projects. The 2026 calendar features…
Read MoreMadison County to distribute free AC units to low-income residential households
As temperatures begin to rise, Madison County Community Development is aiding vulnerable residents a way to stay safe and cool. Through its Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program, the department will provide free window air conditioning units to qualifying low-income households that include elderly residents, individuals with certain medical conditions, or families with young children. The program…
Read MoreGlen Carbon Homecoming sponsorship opportunities now available
Glen Carbon’s Main Street will once again come alive with music, food, refreshments, carnival rides, and more as the community celebrates the 100th anniversary of Homecoming on Friday, June 19 and Saturday, June 20, 2026. Touted as a “Glentennial” celebration, the weekend kicks off Friday at 5 p.m., with a full day of festivities continuing…
Read MoreSIUE ADEA student chapter wins international award; faculty selected for national leadership program
The SIU School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) student chapter of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) recently returned from ADEA’s Annual Session, hosted in Montréal, Canada, as winners of a Silver Chapter Recognition as well as the ADEA Student Chapter Community Impact Award. The Community Impact Award, a monetary gift of $350, recognized the students’ involvement with the BESt Healthcare Institute, introducing and inspiring multicultural high school…
Read MorePartners transform MetroBus stop in East St. Louis retail corridor
Transit Stop Transformation Project partners—Citizens for Modern Transit, St. Clair County Transit District, AARP in St. Louis and Metro Transit—officially unveiled a newly transformed MetroBus stop in the East St. Louis retail corridor on April 9. The public opening marked the culmination of an 11-month process of site selection, conceptual design surveying and construction, resulting…
Read MoreKeeping families together: Local nonprofit challenges misconceptions about child abuse prevention
Caritas Family Solutions sees surge in referrals as new program connects struggling parents to immediate support As Child Abuse Awareness Month begins this April, Caritas Family Solutions is urging a shift in how communities view child welfare, emphasizing that most families in crisis aren’t neglectful, but overwhelmed and in need of support, resources and early…
Read MoreOculus Inc. welcomes John Berendzen, architect, industry veteran, to leadership team
Oculus Inc., an award-winning, WBE-certified architecture and interior design firm, recently announced the addition of John Berendzen, AIA, LEED AP, as senior project architect and thought leader to the firm’s St. Louis office. In his role, Berendzen will help expand Oculus’s capabilities in workplace and industrial environments while collaborating on projects across commercial sectors, including…
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