Feb. 25 rally at state capitol to support Article V Convention of States
The Convention of States Action (CoS Action) is hosting a rally in the Rotunda of the State Capitol in Springfield from 12 Noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026, to continue to build support for an Article V Convention of States in Illinois. The event will bring together citizens, volunteers, and bi-partisan leaders…
Read MoreSouthwestern Illinois College, McKendree University partner to create seamless agribusiness transfer pathway
Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) has announced a new partnership with McKendree University that will provide students with a seamless pathway to earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Agribusiness beginning Fall 2026. Through this partnership, students will complete their first two years of agriculture-related coursework at SWIC before transferring directly to McKendree University to complete…
Read MoreThe Salvation Army of Madison County, Community Hope Center partner to support unhoused
Shared campus will serve the community with dignity, compassion The Salvation Army of Madison County has announced a step toward providing key support to the unhoused community, in partnership with the Community Hope Center. The two organizations are creating a shared campus and unified space where the most marginalized neighbors facing housing instability can access…
Read MoreMadison County honors Alton Pastor Joyce Elliott as ‘Living Legend’
On Feb. 18, 2026, Madison County officials recognized an Alton pastor as a “Living Legend” for her lifetime of ministry, mentorship and leadership in the community. Madison County Board Member Michael “Doc” Holliday of Alton and Chairman Chris Slusser presented Pastor Joyce Elliott with the Madison County Living Legend Award during the County Board’s February…
Read MorePreparing for the next wave of franchise mergers and acquisitions (M&A)
By LUKE RHYNER, Managing Director of Franchise Finance, UMB Bank After two years of subdued activity, the franchise M&A market is entering an opportune window for prepared operators. Valuations have recalibrated, operators have rebuilt liquidity, and buyer demand in the 10- to100-unit segment is showing renewed momentum. Recent, well-publicized transactions demonstrate that deal flow is returning, including…
Read MoreBad managers drive turnover: 56 percent say they left primarily because of one
44 percent say they’ve been yelled at by a manager and 28 percent report being brought to tears at work New survey data from Monster® shows that the relationships shaping workplace culture in 2026 are less about office chemistry and more about how employees are treated by their managers day to day. According to Monster’s…
Read MoreMadison County honors captain at conclusion of 27-year career
Madison County honored a retiring Sheriff’s captain on Feb. 18, 2026, after 27 years of service, including the past three as director of Court Security. Chairman Chris Slusser presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Capt. William “Bill” Marconi, recognizing his Feb. 13 retirement. Marconi began his career with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office in February…
Read MorePoettker Construction named among Associated Builders and Contractors 2026 Top Performers
Poettker Construction, an award-winning company specializing in construction management, design-build and general contracting services, earned a spot on the Associated Builders and Contractors’ 2026 Top Performers List. This recognition honors ABC contractor members’ outstanding achievements in health and safety, quality and project excellence, ranked by the number of hours worked. As an ABC Top Performer,…
Read MoreCareers in View: American Water celebrates Engineers Week with one-on-one insights
Engineers Week is here, and American Water took some time to recognize engineers for their valuable contributions. An official announcement in observance of the week first noted: “With innovation, expertise, and commitment, engineering teams tackle a variety of issues, advance technology, and help shape a better future for society. Thank you to our American…
Read MoreScott AFB 375th Force Support Squadron to host March 10 job fair
The 375th Force Support Squadron is hosting a job fair from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, for Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) positions at Cardinal Creek Golf Course, Scott Air Force Base, Ill. Interested applicants are encouraged to bring their resumes for on-the-spot interviews. NAF positions are open to active-duty spouses and…
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