International soybean buyers will soon have a first-hand look at Illinois farms across the state when farmers meet for the Global Trade Exchange conference later this month.… MORE
Category Archives: State News
Illinois’ two U.S. Senators share their views on the Taliban in Afghanistan
By Dave Dahl SPRINGFIELD – Neither of Illinois’ two U.S. senators is blaming President Biden for the abrupt turn of events in Afghanistan. U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) notes U.S. involvement started in the aftermath of 9/11. “Staying beyond that purpose has cost us dearly as a nation. But I’m not going to hold Joe…… MORE
New bill makes penicillin official state microbe
A moldy cantaloupe made an appearance at a bill-signing Tuesday in Springfield – Ag Day at the Illinois State Fair.… MORE
Gov. Pritzker signs package of bills to fight against Alzheimer’s disease
Illinois is trying to strengthen its fight against Alzheimer’s disease, as part of a package of bills Gov. JB Pritzker signed Monday, Senior Day at the Illinois State Fair.… MORE
Governor signs veteran-friendly bills into law
By Dave Dahl SPRINGFIELD – The first Sunday of the Illinois State Fair’s run is the day to honor veterans. Gov. JB Pritzker signed seven veteran-friendly bills, from the creation of “Folds of Honor” license plates to expedition of professional certification for military spouses. Gold Star mother Theresa Palmer of Harristown, near Decatur, said her…… MORE
Governor signs new laws to help protect the physical and mental health of first responders
By IIS Radio SPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker signed a package of new laws Thursday to help protect the mental health and physical wellbeing of first responders in Illinois. The measures address the ongoing problem of drivers not paying attention when approaching a vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road by clarifying…… MORE
U.S. Rep. Davis says he’s “disappointed” to no longer serve on Jan. 6 investigation commission
A Central Illinois lawmaker is “disappointed” his no longer on the January 6th commission to investigate the deadly capital insurrection.… MORE
IDPH launches online ‘Vax Verify’ system
By WJBC Staff SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is launching a new immunization portal, Vax Verify, that will allow Illinois residents 18 years and older to check their COVID-19 vaccination record. “As more businesses, events, organizations, and others require proof of vaccination, Illinois residents will be able to confirm using Vax Verify…… MORE
2021 Illinois State Fair Butter Cow
By Dave Dahl SPRINGFIELD – Eight hundred pounds of salted Illinois butter – some of it “recycled” – make up a blue-ribbon cow, cuddled by the child who, presumably, raised and showed her. Illinois State Fair officials, led by Gov. JB Pritzker, unveiled the cow Wednesday afternoon, the day before the opening of the 2021…… MORE
New law expands access to FMLA for educational support staff
By IIS Radio CHICAGO – A new state law makes it easier for educational support staff to take time off under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Gov. JB Pritzker signed the legislation, lowering the threshold of hours worked that must be met to be eligible for the FMLA from 1,250 to 1,000 over the…… MORE
Blogs
Labor Day – Expanding voting rights for all
By Mike Matejka Because of COVID, there is no Labor Day Parade this year. It’s always a great event for our everyday workers to march proudly down the street and enjoys the festive crowd. If there had been a parade, this year’s Labor Day theme was to be “150 years of struggle: your right to vote.” …
Is federal mobilization the answer?
By Mike Matejka As President Donald Trump threatens to send federal marshals into Chicago, over the objections of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, recall another Illinois Governor who protested the incursion of armed federal personnel into the city. Those federal troops, rather than calming, escalated the situation, leading to deaths and violence. Illinois poet Vachel Lindsay…
In these troubled times, to my fellow white Americans
By Mike Matejka Our nation is at a unique watershed in human relations. African-Americans have been killed too many times in the past before George Floyd, but the response to this man’s death is international and all-encompassing. I was a grade-schooler during the Civil Rights 1960s. I watched Birmingham demonstrators hosed and the Selma – Montgomery…
Workers’ Memorial Day – Remember those whose job took their life
Looking around our community, when we say employer, most will respond to State Farm, Country, or Illinois State University. We too often forget those who are building our roads, serving our food, or our public employees. COVID-19 has made us more aware of the risk. Going to work every day for some people means…