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Opinion: Southern Illinois Farmers: Backbone of Our Nation

1 year 6 months ago
For the last half of the 20th century, no voice captured the essence of the American spirit better than Paul Harvey. It’s been 15 years since his passing, and it’s easy to forget that he reached 24 million Americans each week on the radio and in newspapers. But what drew people to Harvey wasn’t just his humor or wit—it was his love of celebrating everyday heroes. In November 1978, Harvey stood before the Future Farmers of America convention in Kansas City, Missouri, and delivered a speech that has echoed through the generations: “So God Made a Farmer.” In that speech, Harvey did more than recount the creation story. He reminded us all that when God looked down on the world He’d made, He saw the need for a caretaker —someone to tend to the land, someone with patience and strength. And so, God made a farmer. Harvey wasn’t just sharing a perspective on faith; he was capturing the heart of what it means to be a farmer. These men and

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Mayor Mike McCormick re-elected to the IML Board of Directors

1 year 6 months ago
CHICAGO – The Illinois Municipal League (IML) elected officers and members to its Board of Directors at its Annual Business Meeting, held September 21st, as part of the 111th IML Annual Conference at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. The IML membership unanimously elected Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen, City of Champaign, to serve a one-year term as President. Also elected during the conference were Village President Sheila Chalmers-Currin, Village of Matteson, as First Vice President, and Mayor Gary W. Manier, City of Washington, as Second Vice President. In addition to the officers, 36 Vice Presidents were elected to serve a one-year term, and eight IML Past Presidents continue to serve on the statewide organization’s Board of Directors. Village of Godfrey Mayor Mike McCormick was re-elected to serve as a Vice President. “Strength lies in unity, and Illinois mayors exemplify this principle as we collaborate to build stronger communities and drive positive transformation

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Local Religious Sister Saves Lives With Biomedical Engineering Work

1 year 6 months ago
ALTON - As a religious Sister with a biomedical engineering degree, Sister M. Pieta Keller, F.S.G.M., is no stranger to saving lives. Sister M. Pieta is a Sister of the St. Francis of the Martyr St. George Convent based in Alton. She works with the Jump Simulation and Education Center in Peoria as a biomedical engineer on their innovation team. She has developed many technological advancements that have saved and improved the lives of over 500 patients. “Before I entered , I got a biomedical engineering degree, and in God’s providence, I actually use it,” Sister M. Pieta said. “I truly feel that God has placed me here and led me to choose a field that allows me to pursue my love of engineering, in addition to answering His call to serve Him, combining to positively affect people’s lives every day.” After graduating from Purdue University with a degree in biomedical engineering, Sister M. Pieta joined the Sisterhood in 2013. She has worked

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Difference Maker: Beverly Farm CEO Crystal Officer Empowers Lives Every Day

1 year 6 months ago
GODFREY – Community service and leading with positivity are two traits that Crystal Officer will always be known for at Beverly Farm Foundation. Officer is a definite "Difference Maker" for her area with her work at Beverly Farm and beyond. Officer was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer at Beverly Farm in June 2021. She is known as a supervisor who makes everyone around her feel like they can make a difference every day. She has been extremely creative and innovative in her work with the Beverly Farm Foundation and residents. Crystal said at Beverly Farm Foundation the most important part of the operation is they "value people." "Equipping and supporting our team members to grow both professionally and personally is an important part of our daily work," she said. "I would like to thank the team and residents of Beverly Farm for their dedicated efforts and support, and God for His enabling grace, strength, and love.” Officer previously served as Senior Vice President

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Belleville Youth Exemplify Service at SVDP Breakfast

1 year 6 months ago
BELLEVILLE — Several Belleville East High School students spent their Saturday morning volunteering at the St. Vincent De Paul (SVDP) Cathedral, serving breakfast to over 100 homeless individuals in the community. The event took place at the Cathedral School Cafe, where the students dedicated four hours to cooking, serving, cleaning, and greeting guests with smiles. Their efforts were part of a weekly initiative by SVDP Cathedral, which aims to provide food, spiritual and financial aid, and clothing to those in need in the Belleville area. According to school officials, the student’s participation exemplifies the spirit of community service and the positive impact young people can have on their surroundings. The SVDP Cathedral's Saturday breakfast program has become a crucial resource for the local population in need, offering not just nourishment but also a sense of community and support.

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O'Fallon firefighters and adoptable animals in cute fundraising calendar

1 year 6 months ago
O'FALLON, Mo. -- Firefighters and paramedics are teaming up with rescue animals for an adorable fundraising calendar. The O'Fallon Firefighters Community Outreach has partnered with All Paws Rescue and Diamonds in the Ruff for this project. The calendar features local firefighters posing with adoptable dogs and cats from the rescue organizations. Each month showcases a [...]
Joe Millitzer