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Area News

Belt secures over $400,000 for Metro East libraries

State Senator Christopher Belt recently announced that 13 libraries across St. Clair and Madison counties are set to receive a combined total of over $400,000 for library services and programming. “Libraries are essential learning environments where children and students can explore, grow and thrive,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Investing in libraries means investing in the next…

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Senator Harriss to host July 17 ICASH event in East Alton

State Senator Erica Harriss (R-56th-Glen Carbon) has teamed up with the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office to host an ICASH event from 9 a.m. until 12 Noon tomorrow (Thursday, July 17, 2025) at the East Alton Municipal Building. Constituents are encouraged to stop by to check if they are owed unclaimed property and receive assistance filing…

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Intoxicating hemp remains unregulated in Illinois following legislative inaction

Regulatory attempts have failed despite Pritzker’s backing, although feds could intervene By ISABELLA SCHOONOVER, SIMON CARR and Medill Illinois News Bureau, Capitol News Illinois Article Summary Industrial hemp production was legalized in the U.S. and in Illinois in 2018. The industry was largely expected to produce items like industrial textiles and non-intoxicating CBD products. Since…

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Approved megabill provides tax certainty for farmers

  By TAMMIE SLOUP FarmWeek The recently signed federal budget reconciliation bill includes key safety net and tax provisions that help farmers, but the legislation doesn’t replace a comprehensive five-year farm bill. President Donald Trump signed the nearly 900-page bill into law on July 4. Hundreds of provisions are included in the legislation, including updates…

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MRWTA receives national award from Army Corps of Engineers

Annually, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers selects a single partner to bestow the national Excellence in Partnership (EIP) Award. The EIP Award recognizes exceptional contributions by a partner supporting the recreation and environmental stewardship programs within the Corps of Engineers. At the Audubon Center at Riverlands annual “Ahhh-dubon” event on July 3, the award…

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