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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) announced that her Improving Veterans’ Experience Act was signed into law as part of a broader package of veterans legislation, S.423 . The bill, introduced with Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) and Congresswoman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), codifies the Veterans Experience Office (VEO) within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VEO, established in 2015, gathers feedback directly from veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors on their experiences with VA services. VEO has been crucial to improving veterans’ trust in VA, enhancing digital experiences with the VA Health and Benefits Mobile App, and expanding direct outreach to veterans about resources, special eligibility windows, and other important information. “I’m thrilled to see our bill to codify the Veterans Experience Office signed into law,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “Since it was established ten year

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SPRINGFIELD – Get Covered Illinois announced today that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approved Illinois’ transition to a state-based health insurance marketplace. Launched in 2013 as a branded portal to access Healthcare.gov , Get Covered Illinois will now operate as a full state-based marketplace. “Today marks a pivotal step towards bringing quality, affordable healthcare to all Illinoisans,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Operating a state-based marketplace will allow our state more flexibility to provide health insurance coverage that is tailored to the needs of our residents.” “It was an honor to carry the bill establishing the state-based marketplace while I was a member of the General Assembly and is even more of an honor leading the Department to implement it,” said Illinois Department of Insurance Director Ann Gillespie. “At a time when the federal government is announcing healthcare cuts, Illinois is investing

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SPRINGFIELD – In direct response to the deadly tornado that struck an Amazon warehouse in Edwardsville in December 2021, State Senator Christopher Belt’s measure creating the Warehouse Tornado Preparedness Act was signed into law. “This tragedy revealed major shortcomings in emergency planning at large warehouse sites,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “New warehouse developments will now have to keep workers safe during tornadoes, no longer leveraging workers’ lives for cost savings.” Under Belt’s measure, warehouse operators must develop and file tornado safety plans for each facility within 120 days of the law’s effective date. Plans must include detailed evacuation procedures, shelter locations, emergency equipment inventories and post-disaster response protocols. Shelters must be stocked with supplies like food, water, first aid kits and communication tools. Newly constructed warehouses are also required to meet higher safety standards

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Did you know that the average American household accumulates over 300,000 items in a lifetime? Many of these belongings quietly gather dust in storage spaces, closets, and garages, often outliving their usefulness. A garage sale can be more than just a way to declutter—it’s an opportunity to connect with your community, earn extra cash, and give your unused items a second life. However, pulling off a successful garage sale requires more than simply putting your things on a table and hoping for the best. Strategic planning is key to maximizing both your profits and your satisfaction. Setting Clear Goals and Expectations Before diving into the logistics, it’s crucial to define what success looks like for you. Are you aiming to make a specific amount of money? Or is your primary goal to clear out space quickly? Perhaps you want to attract neighbors and build community ties. Your objectives will shape the scope and style of your sale. For example, if maximizing profit

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Did you know that expressive writing can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, sometimes as effectively as therapy? According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology , individuals who engage in regular journaling report significant improvements in mood and emotional regulation. Yet, despite its proven benefits, many people hesitate to start journaling because they’re unsure how to begin or fear their thoughts won’t “make sense.” If you’ve ever wondered how putting pen to paper might help you better understand your mind and improve your mental well-being, this article will guide you through the essentials of starting a journaling practice tailored for mental health and self-reflection. The Power of Journaling for Mental Health Journaling is more than a daily to-do list or a diary of events; it’s a tool that enables introspection and emotional processing. When you write about your thoughts and feelings, you externalize internal

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Did you know that Americans consume millions of fajitas every year, making this Tex-Mex favorite a staple across the country? Yet, few pause to consider the story behind the sizzling strips of grilled meat wrapped in warm tortillas or the significance of the day dedicated to celebrating this beloved dish. National Fajita Day, observed annually on August 18th, offers a perfect opportunity to explore the origins of fajitas and discover ways to honor this flavorful culinary tradition. The Origins of the Fajita: From Ranch Hands to Restaurant Menus The fajita’s story begins in the ranchlands of Texas during the mid-20th century. The term "fajita" derives from the Spanish word "faja," meaning “strip” or “belt,” referring to the cut of meat traditionally used—skirt steak, a relatively inexpensive and tough cut that ranch workers were often given as part of their pay. These workers devised a method to marinate and grill the meat, making it tender and flavorful

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August 18 marks a day rich with historical significance, echoing moments that have shaped our modern world in profound ways. Moving back in time, August 18, 1587, saw the founding of Roanoke Colony, the first English settlement in the New World, located in present-day North Carolina. Although the colony famously disappeared under mysterious circumstances, its story captivated imaginations and highlighted the challenges of early colonization. The fate of the “Lost Colony” remains one of America’s oldest unsolved mysteries and continues to be a subject of historical inquiry and popular legend. August 18, 1920, was a milestone when the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified, granting women the right to vote. This was a monumental achievement in the struggle for gender equality and women's rights, marking a significant expansion of democratic participation. The suffrage movement’s victory on this day inspired similar efforts worldwide

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Today, expect a hot and humid day with a high of 94 degrees and a low of 72 degrees. It will be mostly sunny. However, the heat and humidity put us under a heat advisory until 8 p.m. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible, and avoid prolonged sun exposure to prevent dehydration and heat stroke. Allergy reports show moderate ragweed levels, low mold, and low grass pollen, so allergy sufferers should take note. Tomorrow's Outlook: High 87°, Low 70°, partly sunny with a chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Looking ahead to tomorrow, temperatures will drop a bit but remain warm, with a high near 87 and a low around 70 degrees. Expect a mix of clouds and sun with a chance of scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon. It will continue to feel humid. Be prepared for changing weather and stay updated at https://riverbender.com/weather .

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EDWARDSVILLE — The 15th Edwardsville Rotary Criterium bike race took place Saturday in Downtown Edwardsville, drawing large crowds despite temperatures nearing 100 degrees. Race director Brian Mulhall described the event as “another fantastic event,” noting the unique character of each year’s race. The competition featured reigning national champion Lucas Bourgoyne, 24, who Mulhall said “absolutely loved the race course and the energy of the huge crowd” and is expected to return. Local restaurant and bar owners, along with their employees, made extra efforts to keep attendees hydrated during the hot conditions, contributing to an enjoyable experience for fans. Mulhall also praised the dedication of more than 100 volunteers and various Downtown Edwardsville businesses, whose efforts were critical to the event’s success. “Even with the oppressive heat and humidity, they performed flawlessly,” he said. “I have many positive

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EDWARDSVILLE - Avery Simaytis is the only senior on this season's girls volleyball team at Metro-East Lutheran High School, and she, along with the rest of her teammates, are preparing for the challenges of the new season ahead, a season which she feels will be a successful one. Simaytis is a middle hitter for the Knights, and is expected to take charge of the team leadership role, which she plans on helping the team improve from a 7-27 season in 2024, including a 1-9 mark in the Gateway Metro Conference, a rapidly up-and-coming league in all sports. In an interview that was held during a break in preseason practice at Hooks Gym on Aug. 14, 2025, Simaytis expressed confidence that the new season ahead will be a successful one for the Knights. Avery is a BJ's Printables Female Athlete of the Month for MELHS. "I think we've been practicing very well," Simaytis said. "We're definitely working very hard in practice to prepare for the games, and I'm excited to see how we perform on th

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COTTAGE HILLS — Emergency responders were called to the intersection of Stanley Road and 3rd Street Sunday afternoon, Aug. 17, 2025, in Cottage Hills after a bicyclist was struck by a vehicle. "Bicyclist claimed he was struck from behind by a vehicle. No damage was done to the bike and minimal injury to the bicyclist. Bicyclist said the vehicle left the scene," Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford said. The Cottage Hills Fire Department arrived at the scene and found the victim with a possible head injury. Alton Memorial Ambulance transported the individual to a local hospital for further evaluation and treatment. The Madison County Sheriff’s Department and Alton Police Department also responded. Because the incident occurred on Stanley Road, the Alton Police Department is leading the investigation. The severity of the victim’s injuries has not been disclosed.

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MORO — First responders were dispatched to the intersection of Illinois Route 140 and Illinois Route 159 shortly before noon Sunday following a two-vehicle crash involving a passenger car and a motorcycle. The Holliday Shores Fire Department arrived at the scene around 11:56 a.m. and found the two-vehicle collision. A medical helicopter was called in to transport one patient to a hospital in St. Louis. Alton Memorial Ambulance also assisted at the scene. The Illinois State Police confirmed the road remains closed as they conduct accident reconstruction. No additional details have been released at this time.

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August 16 and 17 have long been dates marked by significant events that have shaped the course of history across the world. On August 16, 1965, the Maldives officially gained independence from the United Kingdom. This small island nation in the Indian Ocean transitioned from a British protectorate to a sovereign state, marking a significant milestone in its history. Since independence, the Maldives has developed its unique identity, balancing tourism, environmental challenges, and political evolution. In a leap for space exploration, NASA’s Mars Pathfinder probe was launched on August 16, 1996. This mission was designed to demonstrate new technologies for planetary exploration and to provide detailed data about the Martian surface. It successfully landed on Mars in 1997, deploying the Sojourner rover, which transmitted valuable information back to Earth and inspired a new era of robotic exploration of the Red Planet. August 16’s historical significance spans millennia

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SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Christopher Belt’s measure to strengthen prevailing wage rules that will help workers receive higher pay was signed into law on Thursday. “We don’t want to see the federal government shortchange our workers here in Illinois,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Illinois workers who literally build our state shouldn’t be cheated by corporate sleight of hand.” Currently, Illinois’ prevailing wage law does not apply to federal construction projects that require a prevailing wage determination by the United States Secretary of Labor. Belt’s new law clarifies that workers must receive the highest prevailing wage – whether federal or state – in local public works projects that include federal funding. The goal is to eliminate potential confusion when rates differ and specifically impacts projects under state or local control. “We’re codifying the federal practice of adopting the state’s

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EDWARDSVILLE - The strength of the St. Louis region’s aerospace and aviation sector was front and center at the inaugural Global Aerospace Summit August 13–14, which drew 400+ industry leaders, educators, government officials, workforce development experts and career seekers to the Regency Conference Center in O'Fallon, Ill. The event, presented by the Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois in partnership with Madison County, St. Clair County, and Bi-State Development’s St. Louis Regional Freightway, spotlighted the region’s aerospace assets, its potential for continued growth and innovation and various initiatives to grow the workforce, sharing great information and ideas attendees could leverage as participants in this thriving industry. The Summit opened with exclusive tours of West Star Aviation’s facility in East Alton, Illinois and Southwestern Illinois College’s new Advanced Center for Manufacturing in Belleville, Illinois, offering attendees

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today charged a Mt. Vernon, Illinois man for allegedly disseminating child sexual abuse material. The case is part of Raoul’s ongoing work, in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies and local law enforcement officials throughout Illinois, to apprehend offenders who download and trade child sexual abuse material online. The Attorney General’s office charged Dustin Phillips, 33, in Jefferson County Circuit Court with five Class X felony counts of dissemination of child pornography, each punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Sentences are ultimately determined by the court. Phillips is currently detained at the Jefferson County Jail. “Children who have been exploited by predators who trade child sexual abuse material can face a lifetime of trauma. Helping survivors and their families receive justice can be essential to the healing process,” Raoul said. “My office’s Internet Crimes Against

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GRANITE CITY - Dean Webb, President, Greater Madison County Federation of Labor AFL-CIO (GMCFL) is pleased to announce the upcoming Labor Day Celebrations. This year’s theme is “WORKERS DESERVE: Freedom, Fairness & Security”. Union members and their families are invited to enjoy a morning of fun at the Annual Wood River Labor Day Parade to be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025. This year’s parade will begin at 10:00 a.m. at the Emerick Sports Complex in Wood River, Illinois, and proceed south along 6th Street and will turn West on Feguson Avenue, and end at North Haller in Wood River. Wood River Township Chairman, Robert Pollard is this year’s Wood River Parade Marshall. The celebration continues at Gordon Moore Park in Alton, Illinois, where the James Stanley Charity Softball Tournament will wrap up and union members and their families are welcome to enjoy food and refreshments (wrist bands are required to attend the Picnic – see your local union).

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today, as part of a bipartisan coalition of 22 state attorneys general, submitted a comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Department of Health and Human Services supporting continuation of the National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS). The NYTS is an annual study to assess the use of smoking and vaping among middle and high school students. The survey provides valuable insight into youth tobacco use and emerging products and has shaped efforts led by attorneys general to curb youth tobacco use for over two decades. “Attorneys general need reliable and rigorous data on e-cigarette use among youth and teens to combat this public health epidemic,” Raoul said. “I will continue to partner with advocates, lawmakers, and state and federal regulators to enact policies that protect minors from e-cigarettes and other addictive tobacco products.” The CDC recently eliminated its Office on Smoking

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SPRINGFIELD – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today led nine Senators in a letter to Appropriations Committee leadership urging robust funding for federal defenders in the FY26 appropriations bill. As outlined in the letter, the Senators urge the Committee to mitigate the continued funding shortfall for federal public defenders, including filling the significant funding gap as proposed and approved by the House Appropriations Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Subcommittee on July 21, 2025. The Senators began with their request, writing: “As you develop the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) appropriations bill for Financial Services and General Government (FSGG), we ask that you provide robust funding to Defender Services. We also ask that in the event of any FY25 supplemental appropriations bills or a continuing resolution permitting anomalies,

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) today announced that youth in custody earned certifications in various career fields, including solar installation, personal training, shipping and receiving, construction, and culinary arts. Classes offered by community partners on topics such as public speaking, podcast production, music production, audio engineering, and constitutional law also contributed to skill building and knowledge for high school graduates working to make the most of their time while incarcerated. “IDJJ continues to expand opportunities for youth in our custody to attain skills and certifications that create career pathways and increase employability,” said IDJJ Acting Director Rob Vickery . “When a young person reenters the community and gains meaningful employment, they are much more likely to be successful long-term.” Solar Installation Training Program- Two young adults at the Illinois Youth Center (IYC)

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