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Giannoulias Awarding More than $1 Million in Library Tech Grants to Underserved Communities

7 months 1 week ago
SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is awarding over $1 million in new grants to assist public libraries in underserved communities with needed technology enhancements, Secretary and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias announced today. According to the Secretary of State’s office, 88 public libraries are receiving a grant – totaling an amount of either $27,500 or $12,500 – depending on the size of the population they serve. “Libraries play a significant role in our communities, providing a place for every Illinoisan to connect, learn and explore,” Giannoulias said. “We have a responsibility to ensure that all libraries, regardless of their community’s location or wealth, have the resources to meet the needs of residents and expand their offerings, particularly when it comes to technology.” To qualify, the libraries must have a low tax base in relation to the population of their service area. In applying for th

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Duckworth Statement on Trump's Strikes Against Iran Nuclear Sites

7 months 1 week ago
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. bombed three Iranian nuclear sites: “I ran for Congress so that when the drums of war started beating in Washington again, I’d be in a position to make sure that our leaders fully consider the true costs of war—not just in dollars and cents, but in the sacrifices and blood of our troops. The Trump Administration illegally bombed Iran tonight, putting American troops and citizens at risk of retaliation and threatening to draw us into yet another Middle East war without Constitutionally-required Congressional approval. I have long said Iran cannot obtain a nuclear weapon. But this goal could and should have been pursued through diplomatic means first. “In this dangerous moment, my top priority is—and the Trump Administration’s top priority should be—ensuring the safety and security

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The Wedge Powered by SIUE Unveils Bold July Programming to Power Small Business Growth and Regional Collaboration

7 months 1 week ago
ALTON, IL – Something electric is happening in downtown Alton. The Wedge, powered by SIUE, is turning up the energy this July with a lineup of dynamic events that bring together entrepreneurs, visionaries, and changemakers from across the region. “At The Wedge, we’re not just hosting events—we’re building a culture of possibility. July’s lineup is about giving people the tools, connections, and momentum to move their ideas forward,” said Stephanie Schrage, Community Manager at The Wedge . “Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a creative, or just curious about what’s next—we want you in the room.” From rooftop networking and expert-led business courses to storytelling labs that reimagine how we see and shape our communities—every event this month is designed to spark collaboration and increase impact. “At The Wedge, we’re building more than just a space—we’re building momentum for bol

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Alton Splash Pad Closures Announced For Upcoming Amphitheater Events

7 months 1 week ago
ALTON – Alton Parks and Recreation would like to notify residents and visitors of upcoming temporary closures of the Splash Pad located near the Alton Amphitheater due to major events in the area. To ensure public safety and accommodate event operations, the Splash Pad will be closed on the following dates: Friday, June 27, and Saturday, June 28 – Closed for the Mississippi River Festival Friday, July 18 through Sunday, July 20 – Closed for the F1 Powerboat Races The Splash Pad will reopen for regular business hours (10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) the day following each event. "We appreciate the community’s understanding as we support these exciting events along the riverfront," the park and rec department said. "These closures are necessary to manage large crowds and maintain a safe environment for all attendees." For more information regarding the Mississippi River Festival, please visit their website directly at www.mississippiriverfest.com. F1 Power

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Beer Master Tour

7 months 1 week ago

The biggest fans of Budweiser must book a Beermaster Tour while they’re in St. Louis. The two-hour tour gives guests an all-access look at how the King of Beers is […]

The post Beer Master Tour appeared first on Explore St. Louis.

Rachel Huffman

Day Fresh Tour

7 months 1 week ago

The most popular tour at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery in St. Louis explains the life of an Anheuser-Busch beer from seed to glass. Along the way, you’ll visit the Clydesdales Paddock […]

The post Day Fresh Tour appeared first on Explore St. Louis.

Rachel Huffman

ThriVe Metro East Names Jacqueline Duty As New Executive Director To Lead Ministry Into Next Chapter Of Growth

7 months 1 week ago
GODFREY — ThriVe Metro East is pleased to announce the appointment of Jacqueline “Jackie” Duty as its new executive director, following the resignation of former director Cara Paschal earlier this year. The Board of Directors conducted a careful search, seeking a leader with the marketing expertise and digital strategy experience to expand outreach and serve more at-risk women and families in the region. With the recent launch of telehealth services, ThriVe Metro East is focusing on increasing its digital footprint, enhancing client engagement, and continuing to provide life-affirming care in new and innovative ways. “We are proud to welcome Jackie Duty as the next Executive Director of ThriVe Metro East,” said Board Chair Dale Blachford. “Her decades of experience in media, marketing, and community development — combined with her deep-rooted commitment to life-affirming values— make her uniquely suited to lead this ministry forward.”

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The Best Summer Hikes for Stunning Views and Fresh Air

7 months 1 week ago
Imagine standing on a ridge overlooking an endless tapestry of mountains bathed in golden light, the scent of pine filling your lungs, and a gentle breeze whispering through the trees. This is the transformative power of hiking—a simple yet profound way to reconnect with nature while invigorating both body and mind. For those seeking the perfect blend of breathtaking vistas and refreshing outdoor experiences, certain trails stand out as must-visit destinations during the summer months. Why Choose Summer for Hiking? While hiking is a year-round activity, summer offers unique advantages that enhance the experience. Longer daylight hours provide ample time to explore, and many high-altitude trails are accessible only when snow has melted. Additionally, summer’s warm temperatures make it easier to tackle longer or more challenging routes without the constraints imposed by cold weather gear. However, the abundance of sunlight and warmth also means hikers need to prepare carefully

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How to Create a Summer Reading List for All Ages

7 months 1 week ago
Did you know that children who read just six books over the summer maintain reading skills better than those who don’t? Yet, the challenge remains: how do you craft a reading list that appeals to everyone in the family—from toddlers to grandparents—without overwhelming or underwhelming any age group? Building a summer reading list that spans generations requires intentionality and creativity, but the rewards include fostering lifelong reading habits, sparking conversation, and creating shared memories. Understanding the Reading Needs of Different Age Groups Before selecting books, it’s crucial to recognize that reading interests and abilities vary widely with age. What captivates a preschooler will rarely engage a teenager, and adults often seek different themes and complexities. Young Children (Ages 0-7): At this stage, picture books with vibrant illustrations and simple narratives are most effective. These books build vocabulary and encourage early literac

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