IDOT: Illinois 159 lane closures in St. Clair County begin March 9
The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced that repairs on northbound and southbound Illinois 159 between Washington Street and the junction of Illinois 13/Illinois 158 in St. Clair County will require intermittent lane closures beginning Monday, March 9, weather permitting. All lanes will remain open in both directions on weekdays from 6 to 9 a.m.…
Read More‘Labor Salutes’: Illinois AFL-CIO honors IDOL director, General Assembly members
On Feb. 25, 2026, the Illinois AFL-CIO honored three Illinois leaders for their outstanding contributions to the state’s labor movement at its annual “Labor Salutes” awards ceremony. As noted in the official announcement, the Illinois AFL-CIO recognized three “powerful champions for organized labor” this year in Illinois: Illinois Department of Labor Director Jane Flanagan, recipient of…
Read MoreIllinois WIC expands: Adds ethnic foods, updates nutrition standards, increases flexibility
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Illinois has expanded its food package offerings, allowing families to choose from a broader range of culturally-responsive foods aligned with the latest nutrition science. The changes took effect Feb. 25, 2026, and provide greater flexibility at the grocery store. Expanded options include: Additional…
Read MoreIllinois farmers consider expanding cut flower operations
By HANNAH SPANGLER FarmWeek When warmer weather returns, people will start heading back to outdoor farmers markets. In addition to fresh meat and produce, bright, colorful cut flowers bundled in unique bouquets or available for custom arrangements are becoming an eye‑catching addition to the market experience. As interest in cut flowers grows, farmers and…
Read MoreSt. Louis area drivers: Make your move to Metro
Free monthly transit pass allows commuters to test-drive MetroLink and MetroBus Area commuters looking to save money, reduce stress and rethink their daily drive are encouraged to give transit a try as part of “Make Your Move to Metro.” This Citizens for Modern Transit campaign, held in partnership with St. Clair County Transit District and…
Read MoreSIUE appoints Jessica Harris, Ph.D., executive vice chancellor, chief of staff
Jessica Harris, Ph.D., has been appointed executive vice chancellor and chief of staff following a national search. Dr. Harris’s appointment was effective Mar. 2, 2026. Harris has served as vice chancellor for Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) since March of 2021. Prior to that role, she served as assistant provost for Academic Equity and…
Read MoreAmerica’s Maritime Action Plan creates opportunity for St. Louis region, inland ports
By SUSAN TAYLOR, DENNIS WILMSMEYER, CYNDI BUCHHEIT-COURTWAY and BRENT DONOVAN The advancement of the recently announced America’s Maritime Action Plan (MAP) is embraced by the ports in the bi-state St. Louis region as a unique opportunity to play a role in this comprehensive federal framework. The MAP is a blueprint for rebuilding the nation’s…
Read MoreDeveloper proposes expansive $2B mixed-use project for Metro East
By MELISSA CROCKETT MESKE Managing Editor, Illinois Business Journal [email protected] An O’Fallon-based developer has advanced plans for a nearly $2 billion mixed-use development in Glen Carbon, positioning the project as a regional destination designed to capture Illinois consumer spending that might otherwise flow to Missouri. The firm recently presented a $1.97 billion proposal…
Read MoreSimmons Hanly Conroy Partner Andrew S. Murrie receives 2026 ‘Legal Champion Award’
Simmons Hanly Conroy, a national leader in the legal representation of mesothelioma patients and their families, recently announced that Andrew S. Murrie, a partner in the firm’s Alton office, has been selected as a 2026 “Legal Champion” by Missouri Lawyers Media. The Missouri Lawyers Awards recognize lawyers who made an impact in the previous year. The “Legal…
Read MoreAnderson Healthcare provides lead gift to Lewis and Clark Nursing Scholarship
Anderson Healthcare has donated a lead gift of $1,000 to a fundraiser by Mandie Clark, a hospital employee and alumna of Lewis and Clark Community College’s Nursing program. Clark collected donations to start the True North Nursing Scholarship for students at LC. Her fundraising efforts ran in conjunction with an inaugural Galentine’s Day Celebration for…
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