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Dana-Thomas House Foundation Donates $48,874 to Illinois Conservation Foundation for Historic Site Restoration

1 year ago
SPRINGFIELD – The Dana-Thomas House Foundation has donated $48,874 to the Illinois Conservation Foundation to facilitate the purchase and installation of historically appropriate rugs at the Dana-Thomas House, a state historic site and national historic landmark in Springfield, Illinois. Designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902 for socialite and philanthropist Susan Lawrence Dana, the Dana-Thomas House is one of the most complete early examples of Wright’s Prairie-style architecture. The home contains more than 100 pieces of original Wright-designed furniture and over 250 examples of art glass. “The Dana-Thomas House is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a vital piece of our state's cultural heritage,” said Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, which operates the house and 55 other state historic sites across Illinois. “Preserving historic sites like this ensures future generations can learn

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Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison: ‘We are a whisper away from Jim Crow’

1 year ago
When President Donald Trump’s performance in the polls in 2024 signaled a possible re-election, Keith Ellison and fellow Democratic attorneys general read Project 2025 and started getting ready, especially when Trump hired the key author of the planning document after his election. They divided the documents into sections and marshaled their staff lawyers to be […]
Madison McVan

Got Photos? Snap, Enter, Vote! IDOT's Photo Contest Showcasing Transportation In Illinois Returns

1 year ago
SPRINGFIELD – It’s back. For the second consecutive year, the Illinois Department of Transportation is offering you an opportunity to highlight how transportation connects communities with a photo contest. The public is invited to submit original photos that demonstrate why transportation is important to them. “Countless modes of transportation are available throughout the entire state, and we want the public to show us the positive impact they are having on your community,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “It could be a picture of your favorite trail you bike or hike, a bridge, road, train, bus, airplane or waterway. Anything that keeps Illinois moving, we’d love to see your photography skills at work.” Through June 20, IDOT will accept original photos that showcase transportation at work in Illinois, including biking, walking and rolling, rails-to-trails projects, highways, bridges, work zones, transit, airports and waterways

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Swansea Police Promote Jason Frank to Detective Sergeant

1 year ago
SWANSEA — On Monday, June 2, 2025, Swansea Mayor Jeff Parker promoted Detective Jason Frank to the rank of Detective Sergeant in the Swansea Police Department. The ceremony took place at the department’s headquarters, recognizing Frank’s 20 years of service, including nearly 12 years in investigations. Mayor Parker described Sgt. Frank as a “meticulous, hardworking, and highly respected leader” whose “depth of knowledge and experience make him exceptionally well-suited to lead our Investigations Unit.” He also highlighted Frank’s “unwavering commitment to justice and excellence,” calling the promotion a “well-earned recognition of his exemplary service.” Sgt. Frank’s family was present for the occasion, with a special acknowledgment to his wife, Natalie, and daughters Sylvie, Lila, and Paisley. The department extended thanks to the family for their ongoing support. The promotion reflects the department’s

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Centerstone Outlines Local Crisis Services Available for Community Members

1 year ago
ALTON - Local Centerstone resources are available for folks who are experiencing a crisis. Two crisis clinicians recently stopped by “Our Daily Show!” with C.J. Nasello to talk through some of Centerstone’s services, including their Mobile Crisis Response Team and their Crisis Stabilization Unit. Rebecca Arnold and Karsen Finney emphasized that their goal is to help people who are experiencing a self-identified crisis to get the support they need in the least restrictive environment possible. “Throughout my time in crisis, I’ve met people at some of their lowest places,” Arnold said. “I think that is a true honor and privilege of being a crisis clinician, getting to sit with people in those really vulnerable tough spaces where sometimes they don’t even know what to do with everything that they’re experiencing or feeling.” Folks who have Medicaid can call 1-800-345-9049, or folks without Medicaid can dial 1-877-467-3123,

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Gov. Pritzker Announces Michele L. Pankow as Next Illinois State Fire Marshal

1 year ago
CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker announced his appointment of Michele L. Pankow, public safety expert and seasoned fire chief, to serve as the Illinois State Fire Marshal pending senate confirmation. Chief Pankow has spent over 32 years in the Illinois fire service, and will be the first woman to serve as the Illinois State Fire Marshal beginning in mid-July. “With 32 years of exemplary service, Chief Pankow’s unique knowledge and skillset have more than earned her this new role as Illinois State Fire Marshal,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Having risen in the ranks since her first day on the job, she understands the needs of Illinois firefighters, and is versed in the public safety functions of our state. I am grateful for her ongoing commitment to Illinois, and look forward to seeing her strengthen our team.” “I am deeply honored and humbled to be appointed as the Illinois State Fire Marshal. After more than three decades of service with the

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Trump tariffs would lower deficit but slow U.S. economic growth, nonpartisan CBO finds

1 year ago
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s tariffs would decrease the deficit over the next decade but overall shrink the U.S. economy and raise costs for consumers, according to a Congressional Budget Office analysis released Wednesday. Tariffs are paid to the U.S. government by domestic companies and purchasers who buy goods from abroad. The nonpartisan CBO found […]
Ashley Murray

First Fridays in Troy, Giveaways, Car Shows, and More: Here is Your Weekend Go-Guide

1 year ago
From vibrant county fairs and lively music festivals to engaging kids' programs and unique local markets, the Riverbend area offers a diverse array of events that cater to all ages and interests. For a complete listing of upcoming happenings and more details, be sure to visit https://www.riverbender.com/events/ . Featured GGCA Summer Camp invites children ages 3 to 12 to embark on an unforgettable adventure this summer at Greater Glory Christian Academy. From June 2nd through July 25th, kids will dive into the exciting theme "Bible Explorer: Trek through Truth!" engaging in outdoor and water games, crafts, and weekly field trips including visits to local attractions and the NCG Cinema in Alton. The camp runs weekdays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM with before and aftercare available. Daily hot meals are provided, and spots are filling fast—call (618) 468-1068 or email ggcaalton@gmail.com to register and give your child a summer full of learning, laughter, and faith. First Fridays

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Edwardsville Aldermen Approve Leclaire Water Tower Improvements

1 year ago
EDWARDSVILLE – A historic Edwardsville neighborhood’s signature water tower is getting a nearly $500,000 makeover. Edwardsville City Council members voted unanimously on Tuesday night to approve a series of improvements to the water tower’s overall structure, paint, and electrical/lighting systems at a total cost of $495,991. Alderman William Krause spoke to the water tower’s historical significance, hoping these upgrades will see it continue standing as a symbol of Edwardsville’s pride far into the future. “I think it's an icon of Edwardsville's skyline,” Krause said. “It's not just specific to the Leclaire neighborhood. It has become one of the last few, they call them 'tin man' water towers in southern Illinois, and I think the refresh of this monument in our community will give us the next 50 years of pride we can look up to.” Krause and Alderwoman Elizabeth Grant noted the lighting and electrical upgrades will allow for

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