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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned Mr. Bill Sheedy, Senior Advisor to the CEO of Visa, Inc., during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing entitled “Breaking the Visa-Mastercard Duopoly: Bringing Competition and Lower Fees to the Credit Card System.” The hearing examined the lack of competition in the credit card market and its impact on interchange fees, as well as legislative solutions like Chair Durbin’s Credit Card Competition Act to help protect consumers. Durbin first highlighted the skyrocketing cost of interchange fees in the U.S. verse the European Union (EU). In the EU, credit card interchange fees are capped at 0.3 percent of the payment value for most transactions, and in Australia they are capped at 0.8 percent. Despite these lower interchange fees, Visa and Mastercard both continue to operate secure and efficient credit card networks in both Australia and

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SPRINGFIELD - Southern Illinois University School of Medicine is one of the top employers in central and southern Illinois and has become an essential economic engine in the Mid-Illinois Medical District and its clinic sites across the region. An SIU research team led by Dr. Jeb Asirvatham and Dr. Scott Gilbert found SIU Medicine has an annual economic impact in Illinois of more than $1 billion, generating 5,542 jobs in health care and supporting industries in the state. SIU School of Medicine is part of the SIU System, which is one of the most powerful economic engines in the southern half of the state. The SIU System employs more than 7,000 faculty, staff and administrators who serve approximately 23,500 students through campuses in Carbondale, Edwardsville and Springfield. The SIU System Office and SIU School of Medicine are in Springfield, as well as SIU Medicine clinics that serve thousands of patients. “SIU Medicine’s mission has always been to improve the health

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IHA Beverage of Commerce, CA is recalling Super Cinnamon Powder 4oz, because it has the potential to be contaminated with elevated levels of lead. Short term exposures to very low levels of lead may not elicit any symptoms. It is possible that increased blood lead levels may be the only apparent sign of lead exposure. Additional signs and symptoms of lead exposure are more likely with acute exposure to higher levels of lead or chronic exposure to lead. While lead can affect nearly every bodily system, its effects depend upon the amount and duration of lead exposure and age/ body weight. If a child is exposed to enough lead for a protracted period of time (e.g., weeks to months) permanent damage to the central nervous system may occur. This can result in learning disorders, developmental defects, and other long-term health problems. For adults, chronic lead exposure is associated with kidney dysfunction, hypertension, and neurocognitive effects. Product was distributed mostly through

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GODFREY - The Resurrection Lutheran Church Men’s Club in Godfrey successfully hosted its fifth Chili Drive-Thru, raising $3,372 to support victims of Hurricane Helene. The event took place over three Thursdays in October, drawing community support as over 700 bowls of chili, made from Dan Garner’s “Blue Ribbon Recipe,” were sold. The funds raised came from chili sales, “keep the change” donations, community contributions, and seed money from Thrivent. The proceeds will assist individuals affected by the hurricane, which caused significant damage in recent weeks. The Chili Drive-Thru has a history of supporting various causes, including world hunger, local food pantries, flood disaster relief, and aid for the Maui fire last year. Lutheran Disaster Response, which collaborates with other charities, is known for its commitment to long-term recovery efforts, helping communities rebuild and become self-sustaining. The event's popularity was evident, a

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ALTON - Senior Services Plus is excited to host its first “Merry Mixer” event. This event is set to take place on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024 at 2 p.m. in the School House Grill, and we're inviting older adults ages 55-plus in our community to join in the festive fun! Tickets for this event are $10 and can be purchased online or in person at Senior Services Plus. Attendees will enjoy a warm atmosphere with coffee, pie, and a variety of fun activities to enjoy with others. It's the perfect opportunity to add a little cheer to your season and build connections with others in the community. Whether you're looking to meet new friends, rekindle old connections, or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere, the Merry Mixer promises an afternoon of joy and camaraderie. We look forward to welcoming participants and spreading some holiday cheer across the community. For more information, please reach out to Sydney Peckham at speckham@seniorservicesplus.org or call 618-465-3298 ext. 116.

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS - The Illinois Center for Autism will hold our Third Annual Women, Wine & Wonderland event on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024. The event is to benefit the children and adults in a six-county area we serve. All proceeds directly benefit ICA, and the children adults, and families impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder we serve. ICA provides a day school program, adult services program and client and family services program. The Illinois Center for Autism is located at 548 South Ruby Lane, Fairview Heights, IL., 62208 "We are honored to have Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton as our featured speaker," the Center for Autism said in a statement. "Our past speakers have been Olympian Jackie Joyner Kersee and Congresswoman Nikki Budzinksi. We are also honored to have Without Limits SO Cheer, performing." Tickets and information can be obtained on our website illinoiscenterforautism.org. or by calling 618-398-7500.

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CHICAGO – Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced $857,000 in grant funding was awarded to 11 certified local tourism and convention bureaus across the state. This funding was awarded through the International Tourism Grant Program as part of efforts to grow Illinois’ tourism industry. The Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau will receive a total of $228,127 from the statewide grant. “Illinois is truly in the Middle of Everything, and our tourism industry is thriving like never before,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Thanks to the International Tourism Grant Program, 11 local tourism and convention bureaus will showcase the best of Illinois to global audiences, attract international visitors, and drive growth to local economies statewide.” "These grants empower our communities to share their stories with the world," said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. "From historic landmarks to vibran

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EAST ST. LOUIS – Ameren Illinois leaders, alongside local public officials and stakeholders, gathered today to celebrate the energizing of the utility’s second solar energy center in East St. Louis. This milestone supports a $6.9 million diverse contractor spend and marks the completion of $20 million in clean energy solar investments. Overall, the company has invested $80 million in energy and reliability improvements in the community in the last eight years. Located near the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center on N. 18th Street, the East St. Louis Solar Energy Center II features over 3,000 solar panels and batteries designed to store energy for use during peak demand periods and can power 650 homes. "Thanks to the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, today we are producing clean, reliable, and equitable energy right here in the community, for the community,” said Lenny Singh, Chairman and President of Ameren Illinois. “We are creating opportunities by turning

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12), chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, today applauded House passage of H.R. 8371, the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. The legislation makes historic investments in enhancing veterans' healthcare and benefits, improves caregiver support, and reduces barriers for veterans to access care. "From mental health services to caregiver support, this legislation tackles some of the most pressing issues facing veterans today," said Bost. "It expands job opportunities, strengthens community care programs, and gets veterans out of homelessness. Most importantly, it focuses on putting veterans at the center of the VA system. I'm proud to work alongside my colleagues in the House to advance this critical bill and I urge the Senate to pass it swiftly. Our veterans and their families deserve nothing less." The Senator Elizabeth Dole Act has been endorsed by more

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O'FALLON — O'Fallon Township High School District 203 has announced that Kristin Strubhart has been awarded the 2024 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award. This recognition highlights her exceptional contributions as a teacher in both the Social Studies and Career and Technical Education (CTE) departments. The announcement was made by OTHS, where Mrs. Strubhart is also recognized for her leadership in the Panther Beat Broadcast program. The award underscores her commitment to excellence and professionalism in education. “Mrs. Strubhart balances teaching in the Social Studies department and the CTE Department with excellence and professionalism daily,” the district stated in a release. “She is the epitome of excellence in her field and we congratulate her on this amazing award.” The Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award is designed to honor outstanding educators who demonstrate a commitment to their students and the teaching profession. Strubhart's

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GRAFTON — Mayor Mike Morrow has officially filed his petition to seek a second term in office during the Consolidated Election scheduled for April 1, 2025. The announcement comes as Morrow expresses gratitude for the support he has received from the community throughout his first term. “I am grateful for all of the support I have received, and I look forward to serving the citizens of Grafton for a second term,” Morrow said. In an effort to engage voters, Morrow has sent personal letters to each registered voter in Grafton, outlining his accomplishments and future goals. In the letter, he emphasizes his commitment to transparency and community involvement, highlighting initiatives such as a quarterly newsletter that informs residents about projects, grants, and legislative matters. He also noted that city council meetings are broadcast live and available for viewing on YouTube. Morrow reflected on his first term, stating, “Together as a team, we accomplished

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ALTON - Cameo C. Holland, the City Treasurer of Alton, announced her decision not to seek reelection after seven years of service, citing a decline in collaborative governance and personal considerations. In a heartfelt message addressed to the citizens of Alton, Holland expressed her gratitude for the support she received during her tenure and reflected on the challenges and rewards of her role. Holland's announcement comes as she prepares to transition away from public office, a decision influenced by her experiences over the past eleven years with the city. "While serving you has been immensely rewarding, it has also presented many challenges," she said. Holland noted that her initial inspiration stemmed from a collaborative spirit that emphasized citizen engagement, but she observed a diminishing focus on this principle in recent times. In her message, Holland highlighted the importance of family and personal growth, particularly as a new parent. "As a new parent, I recognize

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GODFREY/ALTON - Godfrey and Alton are officially decorated for the holidays. Pride, Incorporated decorated the “Welcome to Godfrey” sign, the "Welcome to Alton” sign and the Benjamin Godfrey Mansion with garland, wreaths and lights. Several local organizations donated time and money to make this possible. “It was just a collaboration,” said Pat Stewart, president of Pride, Inc. “This started as a twinkle in someone’s eye that quickly developed into a community project that should please all Alton and Godfrey residents.” On Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, Pride, Inc. members and community leaders gathered at the Benjamin Godfrey Mansion to turn on the lights and pose for a photo. John Meehan dressed as Benjamin Godfrey himself. Stewart thanked the many organizations and businesses that made the decorations possible. Pride, Inc. received a grant from the Alton Community Service League, then worked with the Village of Godfrey to fundraise.

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today the second official notice of funding opportunity through the Illinois National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program, which will provide up to approximately $24 million for the construction of charging stations across the state. The second funding opportunity aims to make approximately 20 awards, building upon the 37 awards from the first NEVI funding opportunity announced by IDOT in September and aligning with Gov. JB Pritzker’s goal to have 1 million electric vehicles on Illinois roads by 2030.

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SPRINGFIELD - Illinois workers can now search State Treasurer Michael Frerichs' I-CASH website to see if unpaid wages and penalties pursued and collected by the Illinois Department of Labor are waiting for them to claim. The addition of recovered wages to Treasurer Frerichs’ missing money site is the result of a change in the law that State Sen. Robert Peters and State Rep. Marcus C. Evans Jr. shepherded through the General Assembly last year. The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) investigates wage theft and recovers back wages when it finds that an employer has underpaid workers in violation of state law. Workers don’t always know they have money coming their way, however. Wage theft investigations take time, and sometimes a worker may move or change phone numbers by the time back wages have been collected, making them hard to locate. In other instances, IDOL may have conducted a worksite-wide audit and uncovered wage underpayments for workers who were not aware of

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WOOD RIVER - Two Wood River police officers were honored at this week’s City Council meeting , with one taking the oath as a patrolman and the other being promoted to the rank of sergeant. Chris Barnes was officially sworn in as a patrol officer on Monday, while Officer Bryan Brown took the oath for his new position as Police Sergeant. Barnes said shortly after being sworn in that he plans to stay with the department until his retirement: “I’m excited to be here, and I’m ready to retire from here - so I’ll be here a while,” he said. After taking their official oaths and having their badges pinned on, Barnes and Brown were met with applause from attendees before taking a few photos. Both were also congratulated by the department after the meeting. “Congratulations to Sgt. Brown and Officer Barnes!” the department announced Monday night. “We are very fortunate to have each of you protecting our city!” A

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CHICAGO - ?Governor JB Pritzker joined University of Illinois System President Tim Killeen, government officials, and cannabis researchers with Discovery Partners Institute (DPI) to launch the Cannabis Research Institute (CRI). The launch event introduced CRI and its director, Reginald “Reggie” Guadino, to key stakeholders through an interactive panel moderated by Mike Marshall. Marshall, a journalist for Chicago News Weekly’s “Cannabis Corner,” contributed to the development of language for Illinois HB1438, which legalized cannabis use, possession, and purchase. “At the time I was elected, we were allowing people to be held criminally liable — and inequitably so — for consuming cannabis. Just five years later, we have one of the most orderly and successful cannabis industries, and we are launching a research institute – funded by the legal sale of that same plant – that will accelerate the transformation of that old,

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CAHOKIA HEIGHTS – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that repairs on northbound Interstate 255 over Prairie Du Pont Canal just south of Illinois 157 in St. Clair County will require double lane closures starting, weather permitting, at 7 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 20. One lane will always remain open. All lanes will reopen by 3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes during this closure. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced $1,544,352 in total funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program for four roadway safety initiatives throughout Illinois. This funding comes through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to fund regional, local and Tribal initiatives that prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries through modernizing key infrastructure, installing safety measures to protect pedestrians and cyclists and conducting assessments of high traffic roads and intersections. The City of Alton will receive $215,152 for the Pilots to Policy: Slow Down Alton Program. The funding will allow the City of Alton to pilot changes to help reduce fatal crashes and injuries by reducing pedestrian crossing distances, installing visibility-enhancing treatments, lowering vehicular speeds and improving motorist and

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BETHALTO - Aaron Kilpatrick didn’t expect to be an educator, much less the principal of Parkside Primary School. As a self-described “decent” student, Kilpatrick felt a little lost after graduating high school. He dropped out of community college, then joined the U.S. Navy at age 21. Eventually, he found himself as the principal of Civic Memorial High School and now Parkside Primary School, and the native Floridian is proud to call Bethalto home. “This is close to 800 miles away from where I grew up, but I do consider Bethalto home now,” he said. “There’s no place I’d rather be.” Kilpatrick credits the Navy for a lot of the good in his life. He met his wife on an aircraft carrier in Washington state. She is his “biggest supporter,” and she encouraged him to pursue education after they moved to Bethalto to be closer to her family. With her advice and the memory of a high school teacher/football coach who inspired

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