Ameren Illinois supports 26th annual Hardee’s ‘Rise and Shine’ efforts
Patrick Smith Sr., president of Ameren Illinois, is shown in the accompanying photo as he makes a contribution on Friday morning, Feb. 13, to support the 26th annual Hardee’s Rise and Shine for Heat biscuit fundraiser held in several locations in Illinois and Missouri. Smith gives his donation to an Ameren volunteer, Gemma Flores-Olivas. Ameren…
Read MoreFirst Mid Bank & Trust named to 2026 America’s Best Banks by Forbes
First Mid Bank & Trust (First Mid) has once again been recognized on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Banks, earning a ranking of #2 in Illinois and #24 nationwide for 2026. The annual list, compiled by Forbes in partnership with S&P Global Market Intelligence, evaluates U.S. banks based on key financial performance measures, including growth,…
Read More‘Ice Jam at the Dam’ returns to National Great Rivers Museum Feb. 21
The fifth annual Ice Jam at the Dam winter festival, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 21, 2026, at the National Great Rivers Museum in Alton. The festival will highlight winter experiences that can be had along the Mississippi River, along with live music, free animal meet-and-greets, eagle watching, and more.…
Read MoreOSF St. Anthony’s expands heart health screenings with new CT cardiac calcium test
Quick, non-invasive scan gives patients and doctors a clearer picture of heart health OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center is now offering a CT cardiac calcium scoring test. This non-invasive test, conducted through OSF Saint Anthony’s Imaging Services helps doctors gain a clearer picture of a patient’s overall heart health. Patients with one or more…
Read MoreIllinois American Water foundation launches 2026 water and environment grant program
Illinois American Water recently announced the launch of the American Water Charitable Foundation 2026 Water and Environment Grant Program. The foundation invites community partners to apply for grants that promote clean water, conservation, environmental education, climate variability and water-based recreation projects. Applications will be accepted through March 6, 2026. Learn more about the American Water…
Read MoreClaire Vargo, APRN, joins Prairie Cardiovascular in O’Fallon
Prairie Cardiovascular and HSHS Medical Group welcome Claire Vargo, APRN, FNP-C, to the cardiology team at 3 St. Elizabeth Blvd., Suite 1800, in O’Fallon. She joins the practice with a patient-centered philosophy focused on clear communication, collaboration and education and is accepting new patients. As a board-certified family nurse practitioner specializing in cardiology, Vargo brings…
Read MoreSIU System invites input from alumni, community to help shape next strategic plan
In addition to a survey being conducted on campus, the Southern Illinois University System is inviting alumni and community members to fill out a brief survey that will help shape the next chapter of its strategic plan, which will guide the university system through 2031. “Over the past several years, the SIU System has made…
Read MoreFreightway releases Madison County Manufacturing and Logistics Industry Overview
The St. Louis Regional Freightway recently released the Madison County Manufacturing and Logistics Industry Overview, which was developed in collaboration with the economic development and community development teams at Madison County. Located in the northeast portion of the St. Louis metropolitan area, Madison County is one of the largest counties in the bi-state region in…
Read MoreMadison County Associate Judge Veronica Armouti receives Advocate Award for Excellence
Associate Judge Veronica Armouti received the Advocate Award for Excellence in legal advocacy at the inaugural Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL) Illinois Region Legal Leaders Awards held on Jan. 8, 2026, in O’Fallon, Ill. Beyond the courtroom, Judge Armouti is deeply engaged in the community. She supports local and pro bono organizations, serves…
Read MoreIllinois’ Secure Jobs Act: How this legislation could accelerate AI adoption, job outsourcing
By SCOTT CRUZ On Jan. 28, 2026, the Illinois Legislature introduced the Secure Jobs Act (“Act”) – which, if enacted (the effective date if enacted is Jan. 1, 2027), Illinois would operate under one of the most sweeping employment‑protection laws in the entire country. Its mere introduction shows a fundamental failure to understand the gravity…
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