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CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker announced his appointment of Brandon Ragle, a leader in IT strategy and management with 20+ years of experience, to lead the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology. Ragle currently serves as interim Secretary following the departure of Sanjay Gupta. Before his position as Interim Secretary, Ragle served as Deputy Secretary and Deputy Chief Information Officer from 2023-2025. “As part of our continued efforts to bolster the technology and innovation sectors across our state, I’m excited to appoint Brandon Ragle as the next leader of DoIT,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I’m confident that his extensive expertise and leadership experience will optimize software systems and support staff across the agency. I look forward to leveraging his distinct operational knowledge to further DoIT’s critical statewide initiatives.” Ragle began his career with the State of Illinois in May 2002, working as a software

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC)—U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and U.S. Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06) and Don Bacon (R-NE-02) reintroduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would help expand leave benefits for the millions of devoted health professionals serving in the U.S. Public Health Service (PHS) Commissioned Corps. Despite being responsible for leading our nation’s emergency response to dangerous public health crises, 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 lawmakers’ 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 th

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SPRINGFIELD– Illinois Senate Republican Leader John Curran (41st–Downers Grove), alongside State Senator Erica Harriss (56th–Glen Carbon) and State Senator Darby Hills (26th–Barrington Hills), today unveiled their legislative package to make childcare more affordable for Illinois families and businesses. “Investing in childcare is investing in Illinois families and businesses,” said Curran. “Our legislative package is a holistic approach that empowers families, businesses and the state to work together to provide both immediate relief and long-term structural improvements to childcare in Illinois.” According to Capitol News Illinois, the state has lost nearly 4,300 licensed childcare providers—approximately 33 percent—over the past decade. In response, Curran has filed Senate Bill 1120 to help reduce staffing shortages and red tape for providers in childcare deserts and provide financial relief to working families struggling

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Police (ISP) and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) are warning drivers to Move Over or Get Pulled Over. ? The Move Over Law, known as Scott’s Law in Illinois, requires drivers to move over and slow down when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle with its emergency lights activated. ? If changing lanes is unsafe or ? impossible, drivers must slow down to a safe speed, proceed with caution, and be prepared to stop if necessary. ? “We’ve all heard it, move over and slow down for emergency vehicles on the side of the road with their emergency lights activated,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. ? “Despite this, we continue to see to crashes, including deadly crashes, because someone refused to move over and slow down. ? To help end this reckless behavior, we want the public to know that if you fail to move over and slow down in Illinois, you will get a ticket. ? The days of receiving a warning are

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SPRINGFIELD - As Medicaid marks its 60th anniversary in April, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) is celebrating the program’s six decades of high-quality healthcare coverage and Medicaid’s position as the backbone of Illinois’ healthcare landscape. Medicaid provides a wide range of essential healthcare services to roughly 3.4 million people in Illinois, or roughly one in four Illinois residents. Illinois Medicaid is the largest health insurer in the state, providing coverage to people and supporting the healthcare infrastructure in every region of Illinois. Now is a time to preserve and protect Medicaid Medicaid in the face of federal Congressional proposals that would do just the opposite. “On the 60th anniversary of Medicaid, I am reflecting upon the millions of working families across Illinois that depend on these live-saving services,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Even as we uplift how this vital healthcare program

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Fair is thrilled to announce that The Chainsmokers , GRAMMY® Award-winning, RIAA Diamond-certified duo, will perform at the Illinois Lottery Grandstand stage on Friday, August 15. Known for their boundary-defying fusion of pop, indie, electronic, alternative, and rock, Drew Taggart and Alex Pall have consistently shaped the landscape of popular music. Fans can expect an electrifying performance featuring some of their biggest hits like Closer, Something Just Like This, the GRAMMY®-winning Don’t Let Me Down, and anthemic new classics from Addicted to the cross-genre smash, Don’t Lie. “Bringing world-class talent like The Chainsmokers to the Illinois State Fair emphasizes our commitment to providing top-tier entertainment for fairgoers,” said Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II. Since their independent breakthrough in 2013, The Chainsmokers have consistently delivered viral sensations

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SPRINGFIELD – Rep. Amy Elik (R-Alton) says the fight for homeschool families continues following news that the Homeschool Act, HB 2827, was held on third reading and not brought for a vote by Friday’s House bill deadline. This bill places unnecessary mandates on homeschool families and includes an annual registration scheme. The public has been vocal in opposition to this bill. Elik’s concerns are about the cost of the mandates on different levels of government as well as the restrictions this will have on homeschool families. “This is a bad bill, and it couldn’t get the votes necessary to pass it through the House,” said Rep. Amy Elik. “Illinois has far bigger problems right now than mandating homeschool families. Although this bill could still come back, this is a big win for Illinois families.” The sponsor held HB 2827 on third reading, meaning it could still come back to for a vote prior to adjournment on May 31, however

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking Committee led six Senators in urging Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to reverse the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) recent decisions to effectively terminate the Department’s cryptocurrency investigations and prosecutions. The memo , sent to staff earlier this week, also stated that DOJ will disband its National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET), which was established to investigate and prosecute criminal misuse of cryptocurrencies and digital assets. In their letter, the Senators also raise concerns about the potential connections between DOJ’s actions and the cryptocurrency ventures of President Trump and his family. “We write in response to your April 7, 2025

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EDWARDSVILLE - SIUE will host its fourth annual One Day One SIUE celebration on Thursday, April 24. The event, which combines the University's day of giving with a vibrant outdoor celebration, will take place on the Stratton Quadrangle and feature music from the Red Jackets Band, a BBQ buffet, and an INDYCAR showcase presented by World Wide Technology Raceway (WWTR) in a fun raceway themed celebration. “The fundraising festival has rapidly evolved into one of the University’s most anticipated annual events,” said Julie Babington, Senior Director of Annual Giving and the architect of One Day One SIUE. “What began as a modest giving initiative has grown into a signature celebration of community pride and philanthropy.” The final tally for SIUE’s 2024 One Day, One SIUE fundraiser was a record $2,344,574. “Each year, the amount contributed toward student success has increased significantly as has the awareness and participation across our

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SPRINGFIELD – The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and Illinois State Police (ISP) are joining together to recognize and honor all Illinois telecommunicators. Governor JB Pritzker has proclaimed April 13-19, 2025, as Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in Illinois in recognition of the vital contributions telecommunicators make to the safety and well-being of Illinoisans. “Telecommunicators play a critical role in ensuring the safety of our communities by swiftly answering calls, coordinating emergency services, and providing life-saving information. Their dedication, skill, and professionalism often go unnoticed, but they are an essential part of the emergency response system.,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera. “I extend my deepest gratitude to our telecommunicators across the state for their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to public safety.” ISP’s Telecommunication Services Bureau (TSB) operates six

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JERSEY COUNTY — Two motorcyclists were involved in a crash on State Highway 100 Westbound near Pere Marquette State Park on Sunday, April 13, 2025, resulting in one fatality and one serious injury. Jersey County Sheriff Nick Manns reported that the two men were traveling together when they went off the roadway. A 55-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene, while a 29-year-old man was flown from the scene with additional injuries. Manns said that the Illinois State Police will provide further details about the incident as the investigation continues.

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MADISON COUNTY – The Metro East Park and Recreation District (MEPRD) is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of its FY 2025 Park and Trail Grant Program in Madison County. A total of $3 million was awarded this cycle between 19 diverse projects in Madison and St. Clair counties, representing a $10.65 million total investment in the area’s recreational infrastructure. The Park and Trail Grant Program—funded by the Metro East Park and Recreation District Tax, a one-tenth (1/10) percent sales tax approved by the voters of Madison and St. Clair counties in 2000—provides partial funding to local public agencies, transit agencies, and others for local projects that improve public parks and green spaces, enhance accessibility of existing facilities, and grow the regional trail network. "This year's grant cycle demonstrates a continued commitment shared by MEPRD and its partners to providing high-quality recreational spaces and active transportation corridors

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ST. CLAIR COUNTY - The Metro East Park and Recreation District (MEPRD) has announced a successful conclusion of its FY 2025 Park and Trail Grant Program in St. Clair County following the approval of its nineteenth and final award in March 2025. "These investments not only enhance public recreation but also improve public health, promote active transportation, boost local economies, and elevate overall quality of life for residents across Madison and St. Clair Counties, said Cole Preston, MEPRD Grant Coordinator. The Metro East Park and Recreation District (MEPRD) grant recipients in St. Clair County: Caseyville Township ($90,000) for the installation of field lighting at Baseball Field #3 in the Caseyville Township Recreation Complex. City of Collinsville ($216,353.50) for the construction of a 0.11-mile, 10’-wide shared-use path (Phase1) along St. Louis Road featuring high-visibility crosswalks, lighting, benches, and a bike rack. City of Fairview Heights ($280,345)

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SPRINGFIELD – The State of Illinois African Descent-Citizens Reparations Commission (ADCRC) announces the fifth stop on its nine-part series of statewide public hearings. ADCRC is hosting public hearings to discuss reparatory actions for Black Americans in Illinois who are descendants of American Chattel Slavery. The next public hearing will be held in Belleville, on Saturday, April 26, at Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC). For those unable to attend in person, the hearing will be livestreamed on the ADCRC YouTube page: www.YouTube.com/@IllinoisADCRC . Through these public hearings, the commission aims to gather vital recommendations on reparations from the general public for policymakers and key stakeholders. Featured speakers—including Dr. Tandra Taylor, Peggy Lewis-LeCompte, Alvin Parks, and Tiffany Lee—will present on the intergenerational impacts of Housing Segregation, Separate and Unequal Education, Racism in Environment & Infrastructure, and an Unjust

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Did you know that nearly 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year? This staggering statistic underscores a widespread yet often misunderstood health issue that affects a significant portion of the population, particularly during specific times of the year. One of the most challenging seasons for allergy sufferers is spring, when pollen counts skyrocket, turning the great outdoors into a battleground for those sensitive to these natural irritants. But what exactly causes these allergies, and how can we effectively cope with them? The Science of Allergies At the heart of spring allergies are substances called allergens, which are typically harmless proteins found in pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and pet dander. When these allergens enter the body, the immune system mistakenly identifies them as threats, triggering a cascade of reactions. This immune response involves the release of histamines, chemicals that lead to the unpleasant symptoms associated with allergies, suc

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Did you know that if everyone on the planet lived like the average American, we would need five Earths to sustain our current lifestyle? This staggering statistic highlights the urgent need for a shift towards sustainable living practices. Earth Month serves as a vital reminder that our choices matter, not just for the planet but for future generations as well. Adopting sustainable habits can lead to reduced waste, lower carbon footprints, and improved well-being. Here, we explore practical tips for embracing sustainability this Earth Month and beyond. Understanding Sustainability Before diving into actionable tips, it’s essential to understand what sustainable living entails. At its core, sustainability focuses on meeting our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. This involves minimizing waste, conserving resources, and making informed choices that benefit both people and the planet. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: The Three Pillars T

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April 14 is a date that has witnessed many significant events throughout history, marking milestones in politics, culture, science, and more. One of the most notable events to take place on April 14 was in 1912, when the RMS Titanic struck an iceberg during its maiden voyage from Southampton to New York City. This catastrophic incident resulted in the loss of over 1,500 lives and has since become synonymous with maritime disaster. The Titanic, at the time, was touted as 'unsinkable,' and its tragic sinking led to major changes in maritime laws and safety regulations. The story of the Titanic continues to captivate audiences worldwide, inspiring countless films, books, and documentaries. Fast forward to April 14, 1939, when the first-ever televised baseball game was broadcast. This groundbreaking event took place at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn, New York, where the Cincinnati Reds faced off against the Brooklyn Dodgers. The game was a modest affair, with only a handful of viewers tuning

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WOOD RIVER - A National Day of Prayer service will take place on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Wood River Roundhouse, according to organizer Debbie Ward. The event will be held outside at the bandstand if weather conditions permit; otherwise, attendees will gather inside the building. Meteorologist Mike Roberts will serve as the master of ceremonies for the evening. The event will feature the Passion Painter, who will contribute to the service's artistic elements. Community leaders are set to lead prayers focusing on seven areas of influence in the nation: government, family, church, education, business and workplace, arts, media and entertainment, and military and first responders, Ward said. Ward expressed gratitude for the community's support and invited anyone seeking additional information or photographs to reach out.

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ALTON — The Alton Fire Department responded to a fire in the 1200 block of Fairway Drive on Sunday night, April 13, 2025, where a shed was fully engulfed in flames and the fire had spread to a nearby house. Firefighters arrived on the scene to find the shed ablaze and portions of the house also affected. A box alarm was activated, prompting the East Alton Fire Department to assist in the response. Firefighters were able to bring the situation under control swiftly. The shed was deemed a total loss, while the house sustained some damage. All occupants of the home, along with their animals, managed to escape safely, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

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April 13 holds a significant place in history, marked by events that have reshaped nations, cultures, and the course of humanity. One of the most notable events in history occurred on April 13, 1743, when Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States and a key figure in American history, was born. Jefferson was not only a founding father but also the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, which laid the groundwork for democracy and individual rights in the United States. His vision of a nation built on liberty and justice continues to resonate around the world today. Fast forward to April 13, 1870, when the Metropolitan Museum of Art was officially founded in New York City. This institution has become one of the most prestigious art museums globally, housing a vast collection that spans over 5,000 years of art from various cultures and regions. The Met has played a crucial role in shaping the art world and making art accessible to the public, fostering

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