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The Korte Company Founder Ralph Korte Dies After Long Legacy

7 months ago
HIGHLAND — Ralph Korte, founder of The Korte Company and a pivotal figure in the construction industry, died on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, surrounded by family. Born in 1934 in rural Highland, Illinois, Korte built a legacy that influenced both his community and the nation’s approach to design-build construction. Korte grew up as one of 14 children on a small family farm and left formal schooling after the eighth grade. He developed a passion for building by assisting neighbors with farm projects. During boot camp in Arkansas, he earned his GED, which motivated him to continue learning. He served in the Korean War, returning with a veteran’s perspective that emphasized hard work, learning, and courage. In 1958, armed with a $79 electric saw and a simple business philosophy — “Don’t charge too much, and work hard” — Korte founded The Korte Company. What began as a side job evolved into a nationally recognized Design-Build firm known for

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Trump administration says CDC chief ousted. Her lawyer says she hasn’t resigned or been fired

7 months ago
WASHINGTON — The director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention doesn’t appear inclined to leave her post, despite the Trump administration announcing Wednesday that she’s no longer running one of the country’s top public health agencies.  Attorneys for Susan Monarez, who received Senate confirmation in late July, posted that she hasn’t been fired […]
Jennifer Shutt

"Wine for Whiskers" Fall Festival Aims to Raise $55,000 for Belleville Area Humane Society

7 months ago
BELLEVILLE - The Belleville Area Humane Society will host their annual “Wine for Whiskers” fall festival event to support animals. From 5:30–9 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, community members can enjoy dinner, drinks, carnival games, a silent auction, raffles and more fun at The Weingarten in Belleville. Geared towards adults, this fall festival promises a fun evening to benefit local animals. “It’s just going to be a really good night,” said Chelsea Erxleben with Belleville Area Humane Society (BAHS). “The community always just wraps their arms around us and they support us so much. We couldn’t do it without our community because obviously we’re a nonprofit running on donations. We’re here because the community believes in us, and we believe in them.” Tickets to the event cost $50 each and include dinner from Tavern on Main and two drink tickets. In addition to the dinner, live music, raffles and silent

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Why is 'St. Louis' included in the name of a rare mosquito-borne virus?

7 months ago
St. Louis was once the site of an epidemic that inspired the name of a rare mosquito-borne virus across the Midwest. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), St. Louis Encephalitis is a virus spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito and can cause inflammation of the brain.
Alex Barton

Senator Erica Harriss' Bill Ensuring Care for Retired Police K9s Signed into Law

7 months ago
SPRINGFIELD, IL. - Retired police K9s in Illinois may soon receive the veterinary support they deserve, thanks to a new law sponsored by Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon). “Our police K9s give everything they have to keep our communities safe,” said Senator Harriss. “After years of dangerous and demanding work, many face costly health challenges. This law makes sure they’re cared for in retirement, just as they cared for us.” House Bill 3140 creates the Care for Retired Police Dogs Grant Program, providing up to $1,500 each year to reimburse handlers or adoptive families for veterinary expenses. To qualify, a K9 must have served at least five years, or three years if injured in the line of duty. “Most retired K9s are adopted by their handlers, who already share a deep bond with them,” said Senator Harriss. “By helping cover the cost of veterinary care, this program not only eases the burden on families but also honors these

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