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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) sent letters to five telehealth companies that have held contracts with Pfizer and Eli Lilly, inquiring about their financial relationships and possible influence on prescriptions for medications from those two pharmaceutical manufacturers. These new arrangements can use direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertisements that steer patients toward particular medications and create the potential for inappropriate prescribing that can increase spending for federal health care programs. Along with Durbin, the letters were also signed by U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT). The letters are addressed to the CEOs of 9amHealth, Thirty Madison (Cove), Form Health, Populus Health Technologies, and UpScriptHealth. “Through a partnership with , Eli Lilly/Pfizer has launched a new telehealth platform that links patients interested in receiving its medications with a health care provide

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The highly pathogenic avian influenza – commonly known as bird flu – is wreaking havoc on American agriculture. This devastating virus, carried by birds worldwide, is currently spreading among U.S. poultry and dairy cattle, with several recent human cases reported among dairy and poultry workers. Since the outbreak began in 2022, more than 162 million birds have been culled. In the past 30 days alone, bird flu has been detected in 24 states. The virus has been confirmed in poultry in all 50 states and, as of December 2024, dairy cattle infections have been reported in 16 states. The situation is worsening. Herd, flock and human infections have risen, farmers are grappling with market uncertainty, and consumer prices continue to rise. The economic impact of this outbreak is staggering, threatening farmers’ livelihoods across the country. In the last quarter alone, more than 20 million egg-laying chickens in the United States have died due to bird flu,

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SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) Director Jerry Costello II, along with key stakeholders representing farmers, research institutions, and food banks, appeared before the General Assembly's House Agriculture & Conservation Committee hearing to discuss federal funding cuts and tariffs – which amount to taxes on working farmers. Costello’s testimony in Springfield focused on several agreements between USDA and IDOA, including the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program (LFPA) and the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program (RFSI) . Illinois was the only state in the nation to prioritize socially disadvantaged farmers. These same farmers will lose over tens of millions of dollars in fair market value payments for crops and livestock they are currently raising as well as the ability to invest in infrastructure for growth and sustainability. The purpose of the LFPA program is to “maintain and improve food and agricultural supply chain

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Illinois Federation of Teachers Statement on the Dismantling of the Department of Education WESTMONT – Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) President Dan Montgomery issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Education firing 1,300 employees, effectively gutting the department: “President Trump cannot dismantle the Department of Education without Congress, yet he is attempting to bypass the legislative process and override the will of the people. This is about consolidating power, rolling back civil rights, and diverting public funds to private interests. Legal experts agree that this move is unconstitutional and will face serious challenges, but the mere attempt exposes his reckless disregard for democracy and the rule of law. Public education is the backbone of our democracy, and his threats are a direct attack on it. "In Illinois, the Department of Education supports more than 2 million children across 4,000 K-12 schools. The 1.3 million

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AUSTIN - Governor Pritzker joined technology executives and enthusiasts at the South by Southwest Festival (SXSW) in Austin, Texas to showcase how Illinois is positioning itself as a leader in the sectors of tomorrow and growing the economy through high-tech industries. Governor Pritzker highlighted the state’s recent economic development success and pitched prospective businesses and entrepreneurs on building the future in Illinois. “Illinois has been an engine of innovation, growth, and discovery for generations,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We will continue that tradition and keep bringing emerging industries like electric vehicles and quantum computing to Illinois. It’s good for business, good for jobs, and good for our future to have Illinois leading the way on some of the world’s newest technologies.” SXSW brings together major players at the intersection of technology, film, music, education, and culture for a nine-day festival that

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) and Congressman Abe Hamadeh (AZ-08) reintroduced the bipartisan Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act to help veterans pursue degrees in science, health care and technology. The legislation would modify the requirements of the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship to make the program accessible to more veterans. “I have heard from veterans across my district about the financial obstacles they’ve faced since leaving active duty service. Reforming the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship program will give more veterans the opportunity to advance their skills and fill high-demand roles,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Congressman Hamadeh, who I work with on the House Veterans Affairs Committee. Together, we hope to make it easier for our nation’s heroes to pursue careers in good-paying fields like health care, engineering an

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is advising taxpayers to be vigilant when preparing tax returns in order to avoid several common errors which can lead to delays, rejections, or even penalties. “We encourage taxpayers to file electronically and review their information carefully in order to ensure their returns are complete and accurate,” said` IDOR Director David Harris . “Mistakes on returns can have negative consequences, such as delays in processing refunds, or even the rejection of returns.” Common Filing Errors to Avoid Incorrect Personal Information - Double-check names, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth to ensure they match the information on file with the Social Security Administration. Missing or Incorrect Bank Account Information - Taxpayers expecting refunds should choose direct deposit to their bank accounts to get refunds promptly. They should verify their account and routing numbers and ensur

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EAST ST. LOUIS — Authorities continue to investigate the shooting death of 19-year-old Pfc. Byron Gettis Jr., a soldier in the United States Army Reserve, who was found dead in an alley on Sunday, March 8, 2025, in East St. Louis. Gettis, a resident of Fairview Heights, was reported missing by his mother, Latricia Gettis, after he failed to return home from a Friday night, March 7, 2025, outing and subsequently missed his Army Reserve drill over the weekend. Latricia Gettis expressed her concerns on Sunday morning, March 9, 2025, when she filed a missing persons report, stating that her instincts told her something was wrong. Tragically, her fears were confirmed hours later when police located her son in an alley near the 1700 block of Gay Avenue in East St. Louis, where he had been shot to death. Gettis had plans with the Army Reserve for deployment to Kuwait at the end of March. His family, friends, and fellow soldiers are now left heartbroken, mourning a young man described

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GRANITE CITY – State Representative Amy Elik (R-Alton) is joining an expert from the Illinois Attorney General’s Office to host a Free Senior Fraud Protection and Advocacy Seminar at the Nameoki Township Building next week. They will give a presentation and take questions from seniors on how to better protect themselves from fraud. This event is free and open to seniors. The event details are: Friday, March 14, 2025 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Nameoki Township Building 4250 Highway 162, Granite City This seminar will help seniors understand how to recognize potential fraud attempts, learn how to be ready and stop them, and how to use the Attorney General’s Senior Help Line. “We have to ensure that our seniors are equipped to deal with the ever-growing, sophisticated scams that target our vulnerable,” said Rep. Amy Elik. “That’s why I’m teaming up with an expert from the Attorney General’s office to make sure our seniors

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EAST ALTON – The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC) is inviting the community to view this year’s World Water Day Photo Contest exhibit, from 5-7 p.m., March 12, 2025, at the Field Station. With over 100 outstanding submissions, the selection process was more competitive than ever, according to Swarovski Foundation Water School USA Program Manager Jolena Pang. “A heartfelt thank you to our esteemed judges – Marty McKay, Jeffrey Vaughn and Rita Chu – for lending their expertise and providing detailed feedback on the submissions,” she said. “We invite the public to celebrate with us and admire the stunning artwork on display.” Each contestant will have at least one of their photographs printed and showcased in the exhibit. Overall Winner: Clarksville, MO Storm – Tammi Elbert Wildlife Category, 1st Place: Into the Light – Lonnie Gatlin Runner-up: Reflection on Ellis Bay –

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC)—joined CNN’s Jake Tapper to underscore the urgent need to pass her Protecting Veteran Jobs Act , legislation she introduced yesterday alongside Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) that would reinstate Veterans who were fired from their jobs as part of Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s indiscriminate purge of federal employees. Veterans make up more than 30 percent of the federal workforce and it is estimated that Trump and Musk have already fired more than 6,000 of those men and women who have served in uniform. Video of the full interview can be found on the Senator’s YouTube . Key Quotes : “My legislation would allow Veterans to get their jobs back…There are Veterans on the other side of the aisle, and I certainly have never heard a single one of my Republican colleagues say that they don’t

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EDWARDSVILLE – State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) is offering an exciting opportunity for undergraduate students to gain hands-on experience in government, and public affairs through a Legislative Internship at her district office in Edwardsville. “This is a great opportunity for students who are passionate about public service and want to make a difference in their community,” said Senator Harriss. “Interns will play a vital role in engaging with constituents and ensuring everyone’s voices are heard in the 56th District.” This paid internship will allow students to connect directly with constituents through various forms of community outreach. Interns will develop valuable communication and problem-solving skills while gaining insight into the legislative process. Students may also apply for academic credit based on their university’s guidelines. Those interested in applying or seeking more information should contact Haden Jones,

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) released the following statement on her vote against House Republicans' Continuing Resolution. “Rather than support working people, this bill creates a taxpayer-funded slush fund for President Trump and Elon Musk to use at their discretion, slashing billions in funding for veterans’ toxic exposure claims under the PACT Act, and opening the door to cuts in essential veteran health programs, including those for homelessness, mental health, opioid support, oncology, and caregiver services,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “This bill prioritizes billionaires like Elon Musk over our veterans and critical projects in Illinois’ 13th district – projects to reduce sewage overflows in Cahokia Heights, improve public transportation in Champaign, replace hazardous lead service lines in Harristown, and more. The choice is simple – I can’t vote to hand over more unchecked

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EAST ST. LOUIS - On Saturday, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) was joined by elected officials, community leaders, and representatives of organized labor from the Metro East area in East St. Louis to discuss the importance of protecting Medicaid and Social Security for Illinoisans. Congressman Krishnamoorthi also participated in a walk-through tour of the Clyde C. Jordan Senior Center and spoke directly with seniors who would be most impacted by any potential cuts to critical social programs. “Over the course of the nearly 10,000 words in President Donald Trump’s record-long 100-minute address to Congress, he did not mention one extremely important word a single time: Medicaid,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “I noticed it, and I’m sure the 3.4 million Illinoisans who rely on Medicaid for their health care did too. The efforts of the president and his allies to cut Medicaid, Social Security, SNAP, and other essential programs are dangerous, extreme,

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Ranking Member of the CST Aviation Subcommittee—issued the following statement after the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) unveiled a preliminary report on the horrific DCA aircraft collision that occurred on January 29, 2025: “I’m thankful for the NTSB’s work to uncover the facts and circumstances that led to the horrific DCA aircraft collision that killed 67 people. As a former Blackhawk pilot who has flown incredibly complex airspaces like the one around DCA, I support the NTSB’s emergency recommendations that aim to strengthen precautions and keep the flying public safe. “Safety is of paramount importance, and it’s as clear as ever that we need a well-trained and well-staffed FAA to help make flying safer—not firing thousands in our aviation workforce and draining

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BETHALTO - Village of Bethalto officials and Bethalto Community Unit School District #8 Board of Education candidates shared their platforms at a recent forum. On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, community members gathered at the Bethalto Senior Center for the forum, hosted by the Bethalto Chamber of Commerce. The village candidates, who are running uncontested, introduced themselves. The Board of Education candidates introduced themselves and answered five questions. There are nine Board of Education candidates and four available seats. Dana Aronin, Tom Beiermann, Natalie Langenfeld-McCoy and Sharon Rothe are defending their seats. Michael Kirby, Desiree Potter, Samantha Pritchett, Amanda Winn and Dallas Zimmerman are the challengers. Tom Beiermann was unable to attend the forum. Beiermann has served on the Board of Education for 35 years. Jane Balsters Ahasay, who organized the forum with the Bethalto Chamber of Commerce, shared a statement from him. “I would very much

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ALTON – As election season heats up in the Riverbend, Our Daily Show on Riverbender.com is bringing the region’s most in-depth political conversations to voters with State of the Race 2025 . Host CJ Nasello is sitting down with candidates in Alton and Godfrey for hour-long interviews, giving them a platform to share their vision, policies, and priorities ahead of the April election. Confirmed guests for the special series include: Alton Mayoral Race Mayor David Goins – March 12 at 10:00 AM Former Mayor Brant Walker – March 21 at 10:00 AM Alton Aldermanic Candidates (Current Schedule) Kierstan Gray (6th Ward Candidate) – March 12 at 9:20 AM Carolyn MacAfee (2nd Ward Alderwoman, Seeking Re-Election) – March 13 at 9:20 AM Martha Pfister (2nd Ward Candidate) – March 19 at 9:20 AM Tiana Gipson (2nd Ward Candidate/Alton School Board Candidate) Rosie Brown (4th Ward Alderwoman) John Meeha

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Did you know that 40% of energy used in the average American home is spent on heating and cooling? This staggering statistic highlights a critical aspect of home management that often goes overlooked: preparation for the changing seasons. Beyond just switching out your wardrobe or adjusting your thermostat, effective seasonal preparation can lead to comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term savings. So, how can you ensure your home is ready to embrace the shifts that come with each season? Let’s explore practical steps you can take to prepare your living space for whatever nature has in store. Assessing Your Home’s Exterior An often-neglected area in seasonal preparation is the exterior of your home. The first line of defense against the elements, your home’s exterior should be well-maintained to effectively protect the interior. Roof and Gutters: Start by inspecting your roof for missing or damaged shingles. A small leak can lead to significant water damage an

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March 12 is a date rich with significant events that have shaped the course of history across various fields, from politics and science to culture and civil rights. **The Launch of the First Successful Space Shuttle Mission (1981)** March 12, 1981, was a historic date for space exploration as NASA launched the first successful space shuttle mission, STS-1, aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia. This marked a new era in space travel, allowing for reusable spacecraft to transport astronauts and cargo to and from space. The mission was crewed by astronauts John W. Young and Robert L. Crippen, who successfully completed two orbits around the Earth before landing at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The success of STS-1 set the stage for future space shuttle missions, leading to significant advancements in satellite deployment, scientific research, and international cooperation in space exploration. **The Launch of the First Mobile Phone (1973)** On March 12, 1973, Martin Cooper,

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ALTON - Everyone’s a little bit Irish in downtown Alton on Saturday, March 15 during the annual Alton St. Pat’s Pub Crawl. Join the fun from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Find your pot o’ gold during the free to attend event which includes a total of 12 participating pubs and restaurants. A free shuttle will be available to take participants between locations. “The Pub Crawl has been a really popular St. Patrick’s Day event in Alton,” co-organizer Anne Fritz noted. “Each year there’s a new participating restaurant and lots of fun activities.” Enjoy outdoor entertainment in front of Morrison’s Irish Pub which will include Wild Geese from Noon to 4 p.m. and O’Foolain Irish Dancers at approximately 4 p.m. Tip a pint of green beer at the following locations: Bluff City Grill, Bossanova Restaurant & Lounge, Brown Bag Bistro, Bubby & Sissy’s, Catdaddy’s Tavern, Danny’s Lounge, Firehouse, FLOCK Food Truck Park & Bar,

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