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SPRINGFIELD – Fairgoers are in for a special treat at the 2025 Illinois State Fair: Country music powerhouse Randy Houser will take the Grandstand stage for a FREE concert on Monday, August 11. “The Illinois State Fair is a celebration of our state’s people, agriculture, and traditions,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I’m proud that we can provide opportunities like this free concert, giving families from across Illinois the chance to come together, enjoy entertainment at the Fair, and make lasting summer memories.” With an inimitable voice, Houser has become one of country music’s most celebrated vocalists. His chart-topping album How Country Feels delivered smash hits including “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight,” “Goodnight Kiss,” and CMA Song of the Year nominee “Like A Cowboy.” Houser has since added more No. 1 hits to his catalog, including “We Went,” and continues to wow audiences

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SPRINGFIELD – As preparations ramp up for the 2025 Illinois State Fair, inspectors with the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) are on site ensuring that every amusement ride is thoroughly examined and approved for operation before the Midway opens to the public. “Public safety is our top priority,” said IDOL Amusement Ride and Attraction Safety Division Manager Brian Fox. “Each ride is carefully inspected to make sure it meets all safety and structural standards. If you see the IDOL permit sticker, the ride is approved for use.” The State Fair represents IDOL’s second largest annual inspection effort, following only the inspection of rides at Six Flags Great America. For the fair, IDOL deploys a team of six experienced inspectors to examine rides and attractions—not just at setup, but throughout the event to ensure continued compliance. To help families prepare, IDOL encourages parents and guardians to review ride safety tips with

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HARDIN — Country music fans can look forward to a lively night at the Calhoun County Fair on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, when Jake Maurer takes the stage at the fairgrounds. The concert, beginning at 7:30 p.m. with gates opening at 5 p.m., will feature a blend of modern country and down-home storytelling, promising an engaging experience for attendees. Jake Maurer, a native of Metamora, has been a fixture in Nashville’s music scene since 2007, regularly headlining at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. Raised in the Midwest with influences including Garth Brooks and Texas “Red Dirt” country, Maurer combines his background as a former college football player and teacher with his passion for music. He is known for his high-energy performances and ability to connect with audiences through humor and heartfelt songs. Maurer also tours extensively, performing at festivals such as Regina’s Hawgarama and fundraising events in Ontario and Montana. Opening the evening wil

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I recently backed into a fence with my car. If you’re a faithful reader, you might be thinking, “But wait, didn’t you also hit a deer not too long ago?” Short answer, yes, that also happened. I’d like to remind you that THE DEER HIT ME, but technically I also had a run-in with a deer. And now a fence. One of the things you need to know about me is that I am a bad driver. I get where I’m going and I get home — thank God — but the in-between time is not that seamless. My own insecurities are my greatest downfall. A few weeks ago, I honked at an Amazon driver that was backing into the road because they almost hit me. I was just trying to alert them that I was there, and it worked: The driver pulled forward and I was able to squeeze by. But immediately, I felt terrible. I tried to justify it in my head. I didn’t want to get hit, and I did what I had to do to avoid that. It was better for both me and the driver, who

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Did you know that children are most likely to experience boredom when left without structured activities for more than three consecutive days? This statistic underscores a common challenge parents and caregivers face during extended periods when school is out: keeping kids engaged, stimulated, and happy. Finding creative ways to entertain children not only alleviates restlessness but also fosters learning, growth, and family bonding. Here are inventive strategies to transform what could be idle time into memorable and enriching experiences. Transforming Everyday Spaces into Adventure Zones One of the simplest yet most effective ways to captivate children’s attention is by reimagining their immediate environment. Turning familiar spaces into themed adventure zones encourages imagination and physical activity without requiring extravagant resources. Examples: Indoor Treasure Hunts: Design a scavenger hunt with clues hidden around the house or backyard. Incorporate puzzles

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Did you know that just 30 minutes of walking each morning can significantly boost your mental clarity and energy levels for the entire day? This simple activity, often overlooked in the hustle of daily routines, holds remarkable potential, especially during the summer months. Morning walks are more than just a form of exercise—they are a multifaceted practice that nurtures the body, sharpens the mind, and enhances overall well-being. Enhancing Physical Health with Morning Walks Walking is a low-impact, accessible form of exercise that supports cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and improves endurance. During summer, early morning walks offer a unique advantage: the cooler temperatures reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration, making physical activity safer and more enjoyable. Research indicates that regular walking can lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. For instance, a study

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What if a simple scoop of ice cream could transform a neighborhood? Beyond its role as a sweet treat, ice cream has an uncanny ability to bring people together, sparking conversations and creating memories. Hosting an ice cream social offers a unique opportunity to strengthen community ties, foster new friendships, and create a welcoming atmosphere for neighbors of all ages. The Power of an Ice Cream Social Social isolation remains a growing concern in many communities. According to a 2023 survey by the Pew Research Center, nearly 36% of Americans report feeling isolated from their neighbors. Events like ice cream socials can counteract this trend by providing informal, enjoyable settings for people to connect. Unlike formal meetings or structured events, an ice cream social's casual nature lowers social barriers and encourages spontaneous interaction. Planning Your Ice Cream Social: Key Considerations 1. Choosing the Right Venue The venue sets the tone for your event. Common

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August 4th has long been a date marked by moments that have shaped the course of history across the globe. One of the most impactful events associated with this date happened during World War I. On August 4, 1914, the United Kingdom declared war on Germany, officially entering the conflict that would engulf much of the world. This declaration came just days after Germany’s invasion of Belgium, breaching Belgium’s neutrality and prompting Britain’s involvement under treaty obligations. This marked a turning point in the war, signaling the expansion of hostilities and the beginning of a prolonged and devastating global conflict. The impact of Britain's entry into World War I had profound consequences for the geopolitical landscape, influencing the eventual outcome of the war and setting the stage for major political changes in Europe and beyond. Going further back, August 4, 1776, holds a special place in American history. Though the United States celebrates Independence

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Today's high will reach 79 degrees with a low near 65. Expect partly sunny skies with more humidity building through the afternoon. A thunderstorm is likely in spots this afternoon and evening, so keep an eye to the sky if you're planning outdoor activities. The allergy index shows moderate mold levels and low grass, ragweed, and tree pollen counts. The UV index is very high, so don't forget your sunscreen. Tomorrow's outlook calls for a high of 82 and a low of 65. It will be humid with partial sunshine and a stray afternoon thunderstorm possible. Morning fog may linger early on, so drive carefully. If you're out and about today, be prepared for a few showers and possible thunder. Stay hydrated and consider bringing a light raincoat or umbrella just in case. For sun protection, wear sunscreen and sunglasses. For more details, visit https://riverbender.com/weather .

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CALHOUN COUNTY — Premium parking spots near the arenas for the Tractor and Truck Pulls and Demolition Derby at the 2025 Calhoun County Fair are now available through an online auction, fair officials announced. The auction offers attendees a chance to secure reserved parking for three of the fair’s biggest events, scheduled for September 5, 6, and 7. The reserved spots will be located just steps from the arenas, allowing visitors to avoid the usual search for parking and arrive close to the action. Bidding for the parking spaces ends at 7 p.m. on August 24, 2025. The auction is hosted online at https://hanoldauctioneering.hibid.com/ , where interested bidders can find the available spots and place their bids. Proceeds from the auction will support the fairgrounds and events. “This is your chance to upgrade your night at the fair,” organizers said, emphasizing that the premium parking offers guaranteed proximity to the shows and contributes to supporting the

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ALTON, Ill. — Treiden Schleicher, a 20-year-old powerboat racer and recent competitor at the Alton Midwest Nationals Powerboat Championships, died Tuesday morning, July 29, 2025, in a boating accident at Champions Park Lake in Springfield, Ohio. Schleicher, a fan favorite who raced in the Formula Lite division along the Mississippi River in Alton just weeks earlier on July 19 and 20, lost control of his powerboat during the 2025 Stock, Mod, and Junior Nationals racing event. Officials reported that he experienced problems that caused his boat to become tangled, leading to the crash. At the Alton event, Schleicher had placed second behind Shelby Love, who is also his girlfriend. Known for his passion for speed and competition both on land and water, Schleicher was admired for his adventurous spirit. When not racing, he enjoyed fishing, a pastime that brought him peace and created lasting memories. Clover Construction, Schleicher’s race team, "On behalf of Clover Racing,

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EAST ALTON — The 7th annual back-to-school event took place Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, at the East Alton Keasler Complex, providing East Alton children with free school supplies, clothing, and other essentials ahead of the new academic year. Organizers offered a range of items, including haircuts, new clothing, hygiene products, backpacks filled with grade-appropriate supplies, tennis shoes, socks, underwear, coats, jackets, and laundry soap. East Alton school teachers and volunteers assisted children as they selected items, all at no cost to families. “We have many organizations and businesses that came together to help supply and support the needs for these children,” said Robin Carlton, an event organizer. After shopping, children and their families enjoyed activities such as a bounce house, snow cones, and lunch outside the East Alton Recreation Department. Numerous community groups and individuals contributed to the event’s success, including House of Victory

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GRANITE CITY — Peddlin' Paras, a group of paraprofessionals from Granite City Community Unit School District #9, will hold a memorial bike ride Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, to honor Logan Williams, a senior at Triad High School who died in a car accident on July 8, 2025. Williams, 17, was driving westbound on Illinois Route 100 near Duncan Hill Road around 5:15 a.m. when his vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree, according to the Illinois State Police. He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Williams was an Eagle Scout and an organ donor whose donations through Mid-America Transplant saved multiple lives. The 10-mile round-trip ride will begin at 7 a.m. at Triad High School, located at 703 E. U.S. Highway 40 in Troy, and proceed to Williams’ home at 8641 Blackjack Hollows Lane, Troy, before returning to the school. The event aims to pay tribute to Williams’ memory and show support for his family and community. Williams’ parents, Todd and

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ST. LOUIS — A St. Louis Fire Department engine was struck by a car Sunday morning, Aug. 3, 2025, while responding to an earlier crash on Interstate 44 near Jamieson, according to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. First responders were assisting at the scene of a vehicle collision when a second crash occurred. Police reported that a car traveling on Interstate 44 failed to slow down or move over for the emergency personnel and collided with the rear of the fire truck. A spokesperson for the police department said only minor injuries resulted from the incident. The investigation into the circumstances of the crash is ongoing.

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August 2 and 3 have long been days marked by transformative events that have shaped the world in significant ways. In the 19th century, August 2 marked a critical moment during the Franco-Prussian War. In 1870, the Battle of Mars-la-Tour unfolded, where Prussian forces clashed with the French army. Despite being outnumbered, the Prussian troops managed a strategic victory that played a key role in the eventual unification of Germany. This battle exemplifies the shifting balance of power in Europe during the era and the complex dynamics that led to the continent's political landscape in the 20th century. Another notable event occurred in 1934, when Adolf Hitler was appointed Führer of Germany following President Paul von Hindenburg's death. This consolidation of power marked a dark turning point in world history, leading to the establishment of a totalitarian regime and eventually to the outbreak of World War II. Understanding this moment is crucial to comprehending the causes

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Bipartisan legislation introduced by combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC)—and U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) that would help expand leave benefits for the devoted health professionals serving in the U.S. Public Health Service (PHS) Commissioned Corps passed the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP). Despite being responsible for leading our nation’s emergency response to dangerous public health crises and natural disasters, PHS officers are still the only federal entity—civilian or uniformed—without access to essential leave benefits, including extended parental leave, emergency leave, court appearance leave and rest and recuperation leave. The Senators’ Uniformed Services Leave Parity Act would rectify this issue by ensuring PHS officers have access to the same authorized leave that is available to members of

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – C ombat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) in reintroducing legislation to help make it easier for our Veterans who struggle with infertility to build their families . Their Veteran Families Health Services Act of 2025 would expand the fertility treatments and family-building services that are covered under servicemembers’ and Veterans’ health care to include—among other things—in vitro fertilization (IVF) and adoption assistance for servicemembers and Veterans who are unable to conceive without assistance and the option for individuals to freeze their eggs or sperm ahead of deployment to a combat zone. This legislation was previously included as part of Senator Duckworth’s Right to IVF Act , which Senate Republicans blocked not once , but twice last year. “After all the tremendous sacrifices our brave women

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CHICAGO — Today, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Director Heidi Mueller, legislators, DCFS staff, caregivers and students gathered to celebrate this year’s scholarship recipients at the department’s annual scholarship luncheon. This year, 347 current or former youth in care received scholarships provided by the Illinois DCFS Scholarship Program, including up to five consecutive years of tuition and mandatory fee waivers valid at Illinois public universities, community colleges and vocational schools. The program also provides student recipients with financial assistance for books and school supplies, a monthly grant payment to supplement other expenses and an Illinois Medicaid card. “As governor, I am committed to uplifting the next generation of Illinoisans, particularly those young people who have faced great adversity with grace and grit.” said Governor JB Pritzker. “From textbooks to tuition, students must be afforded

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul and the attorneys general of California, Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York co-led a multistate lawsuit today challenging the Trump administration’s efforts to restrict access to medically necessary health care for transgender and nonbinary youth. Raoul and the coalition of 14 other attorneys general and the governor of Pennsylvania, filed the lawsuit targeting recent federal actions aimed at deterring providers from offering medically appropriate care to transgender individuals under age 19, even in states like Illinois where such care is legal and protected. The lawsuit argues the administration has overstepped its authority by using threats of criminal prosecution and federal investigations to pressure health care providers. The coalition is asking the court to block these actions and protect access to care for patients who need it. “Medically necessary health care for transgender youth is lawful, essential and lifesaving

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WOOD RIVER - The Original Quarter Auction is celebrating its 16th anniversary with a Sweet 16 bash. On Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, community members can come by the Wood River Moose for a quarter auction featuring 25 vendors and plenty of fun. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the auction starts at 7 p.m. Organizer Andrea, who invented the quarter auction, can’t wait to celebrate its 16th year. “The more you bid, the more you win,” she said. “It’s been fun.” Sixteen years ago, Andrea attended a Tupperware party where attendees were bidding on items using quarters, but she felt it was “so disorganized.” She spent the next two weeks workshopping a new kind of event that would eventually become the quarter auction. Quarter auctions have since gained popularity across the Midwest. When attendees arrive on Aug. 6, they will purchase a paddle for $1. The live auction will begin at 7 p.m., and Andrea’s daughter, Anna Lynn, will call the 100

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