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This Weekend in History on December 20 and 21: South Carolina Secedes from the Union

2 months 2 weeks ago
Let’s take a journey through time to explore some of these remarkable moments on Dec. 20 and 21. In the 18th century, December 20, 1803, was a pivotal day in European history when the United Kingdom took control of the Dutch Cape Colony in southern Africa. This strategic acquisition played a crucial role in British naval dominance and the expansion of its colonial empire, impacting regional politics and trade routes for years to come. Moving forward to the 19th century, on December 20,

Why the Winter Solstice Holds More Power Than You Think—and How to Celebrate It

2 months 2 weeks ago
Did you know that the winter solstice has been observed by humans for over 5,000 years? From ancient stone circles to modern-day rituals, this astronomical event has captivated civilizations across the globe, symbolizing much more than just a calendar milestone. The winter solstice marks a pivotal moment in the Earth's journey around the sun—a moment that has inspired myths, festivals, and reflections on renewal and balance. Understanding the Winter Solstice: Beyond the Astronomical Event

Belt Law Protects Workers Taking Time Off For Organ Donation Starting Jan. 1

2 months 2 weeks ago
SPRINGFIELD – Part-time workers may be dissuaded from taking time off to donate a life-saving organ due to fears of losing their job. That will change come Jan. 1, thanks to a new law championed by State Senator Christopher Belt ensuring part-time workers are covered for this time away. “We need all the organ donors we can get,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “I received a life-saving kidney transplant, so I know firsthand that donations save lives. This law removes barriers for

Budzinski, Bost Introduce Bill to Modernize USDA Loan Programs

2 months 2 weeks ago
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Reps. Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) and Mike Bost (IL-12) introduced legislation to remove outdated eligibility barriers that prevent modern family farms from accessing U.S. Department of Agriculture loan programs. The USDA Loan Modernization Act updates eligibility standards to better reflect the structure of today’s multi-generational, family-run farms. This bill would expand access to operating, emergency, and real estate loans for producers in Central

Wood River Man, Belleville Woman Charged With Possession Of Stolen Vehicle, Title

2 months 2 weeks ago
MADISON COUNTY – Felony charges have been filed against a local man and woman accused in separate cases of possessing a stolen vehicle, title, and more. Tyler M. Buckingham, 24, of Wood River, was charged on Dec. 11, 2025 with one count each of unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle (a Class 2 felony) and possession of cannabis with the intent to deliver (a Class 3 felony). Buckingham was allegedly in possession of a Kia Rio bearing an Illinois registration number which he knew

State Treasurer Michael Frerichs Returns $100,000 in Missing Money to Illinois Food Pantries

2 months 2 weeks ago
SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs is returning $100,000 in missing money to food pantries throughout the state. Each December, Frerichs’ office focuses on returning money through the ICash program to nonprofit groups that help people in need. This year, Frerichs decided to help food pantries that saw resources stretched and demand spike when the federal government shutdown stopped food assistance to many Illinois families in November. “Food pantries always