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SPRINGFIELD – Today, the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) is pleased to announce the passage of Senate Bill 1491, a new law that will enhance crisis and emergency response capabilities across the state through the integration of certified therapy dog teams. Senate Bill 1491 was recently signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker on Friday, August 1, 2025. Effective January 1, 2026, Senate Bill 1491 requires ILETSB to develop a comprehensive course and certification program for law enforcement officers who will work with therapy dogs in crisis and emergency response situations. This initiative aims to ensure that trained therapy dog teams are available to provide comfort and support during critical incidents, benefiting both individuals in crisis and responding officers. This program will allow for a mutual aid network of therapy dog teams to be dispersed throughout the state when they are needed the most. “This is a significant moment for communities

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August 9 and 10 hold a remarkable place in global history, marked by events that have shaped societies, inspired movements, and transformed the world in profound ways. One of the most impactful events on August 9 happened in 1974 when Gerald Ford was sworn in as the 38th President of the United States. This moment came in the wake of the Watergate scandal, a political crisis that had shaken the foundations of American democracy. Ford’s ascent to the presidency was historic not only because he became the first unelected president, but also because he immediately faced the challenge of restoring public trust in government. His controversial decision to pardon Richard Nixon remains a topic of debate among historians and citizens alike. Going back in time, August 9, 1945, marks a critical day in world history during the final months of World War II. On this day, the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan, just three days after the bombing of Hiroshima. This devastating

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TROY — Downtown Troy was alive with music and energy on Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, as the community gathered for the third First Friday of the season. “This event has done exactly what we had hoped—brought people to downtown Troy,” said Dawn Mushill, President/CEO of the Troy/Maryville/St. Jacob/Marine Chamber of Commerce. “Our downtown businesses have been grateful for the new exposure.” Fans of Lanny & Julie began lining up near the stage even before setup was complete. Throughout the evening, visitors enjoyed a variety of food trucks, vendors, and open doors from many local businesses eager to welcome the crowd. The Triad Hockey Club provided a safe crossing at Market and Main for those visiting the downtown businesses. The season finale of First Friday will take place on Friday, September 5, at the corner of Main and Market in downtown Troy. The Dude Abides Duo will take the stage from 5–8 p.m., accompanied by food trucks and vendors. Guests

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CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced that applications for Round 3 of the Cannabis Social Equity Loan Program will open August 11th. This round of funding includes $40 million, which will be available through Direct Forgivable Loans (DFL) fully financed by the State. Loans will be available to qualified, licensed social equity craft growers, infusers, transporters, and adult-use dispensing organizations. “Illinois is proud to have the most diverse cannabis industry in the nation as the state continues to support the industry,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We’ve made historic progress fostering social equity in the marketplace and ensuring investment in communities across the state over the past five years. This new round of funding is another meaningful step toward uplifting social equity businesses in the cannabis industry.” “Under the Pritzker-Stratton administration,

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ALTON - On a recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust , Lindsey, a family coach with Amare, shared how God has impacted her life. Amare is a Wood River-based nonprofit that helps people who are struggling with substance use disorders. The organization offers recovery support and resources. As a family coach, Lindsey works with families to help them navigate a loved one’s journey. “We meet people where they are. That’s what we always say,” she explained. “I love being a family coach because I love being able to help family members understand the giant mountain that people have to face when they are approaching recovery or considering, because it is so hard and it takes so much strength.” Lindsey emphasized that you do not have to be clean/sober to receive Amare’s help, which is completely free. The organization connects with people no matter where they’re at in their journey. They can help

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GALATIA – Illinois State Police (ISP) officials investigated a traffic crash that occurred on IL-34 one mile west of Harco Road in Saline County involving an ISP trooper. The trooper was on scene of a previous, fatal traffic crash when their squad car was struck by a driver who failed to move over. On August 8, 2025, at approximately 5:08 a.m., two ISP troopers were parked on IL-34 west of Harco Road with emergency lights activated blocking westbound traffic to secure a crash scene. An individual driving a Ford Escape westbound struck the rear of one of the squad cars. Both troopers were outside of their squad cars at the time of the crash. The driver of the Ford Escape, 66-year-old Sandra S. Kahl of Thompsonville, IL, and both troopers were uninjured. Kahl was cited for Move Over Law violations and Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid an Accident. In 2025, ISP has already suffered eight Move Over Law-related crashes. In 2024, ISP suffered 27 Move Over Law-related crashes with 1

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SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Fair is excited to collaborate with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to promote early childhood literacy through the gift of books. This inspiring book gifting program mails free, high-quality, and age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five, regardless of the family's income. To celebrate this partnership, families are invited to enjoy a daily story time session at 2 p.m. inside the Sensory Station (Emmerson Building) during the Illinois State Fair. It’s the perfect mid-day pause in the air-conditioning, giving an opportunity for kids to unwind, listen, and imagine, before heading back out to explore all the excitement the fair has to offer. “The Illinois State Fair theme is Adventure Awaits, and there is no limit to the adventures available to kids through good books,” said Rebecca Clark, Illinois State Fair Manager. “By bringing this partnership to the fairgrounds, we’re opening the door for

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, with a bipartisan coalition of 50 attorneys general, today launched Operation Robocall Roundup, an effort by the multistate Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force to crack down on robocalls across the country. As part of their efforts, Raoul and the coalition are sending warning letters to 37 voice providers demanding immediate action to stop illegal robocalls being routed through their networks. “Today’s announcement is the latest step taken in our task force’s efforts to address intrusive and illegal robocalls that plague Illinoisans,” Raoul said. “I will continue to work closely with my fellow attorneys general and the FCC to protect Illinois consumers and ensure all telecom companies play by the rules.” The telecom providers being sent warning letters have failed to comply with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules on responding to government traceback requests. They also have failed to register

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SPRINGFIELD - Following another strong month in fund balances, Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza is ordering the pre-payment of state pension payments in August. Total payments in August will be $1.336 billion to the five retirement systems which include $428 million in pre-payments, or nearly 50% more than the usual amount. This comes after the Comptroller’s Office pre-paid 100% more in pre-payments in July. These early payments allow the state’s five pension systems to keep more money in their investment portfolios and earn more in returns. Last month’s prepayment is estimated to produce an extra $20 million for retiree pension funds, and this month’s 50% pre-payment is expected to generate another $5 million. Comptroller Mendoza first began using this cash management tool in July 2024, under new rules she sought to better manage state finances. “Not only does this boost investment opportunities for the state’s retirement systems, these pre-payments

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For something so simple, there can be something surprisingly enjoyable about a cold drink on a hot day. It can quench our thirst, cool us down and just taste great. And during these warm months when we need to drink more than usual to stay hydrated, it’s important to choose drinks that we like, but it’s also important to choose drinks on the healthier side. Figuring out which drinks hit that sweet spot, though, isn’t always easy. To help with that, I spoke with Yikyung Park, a nutrition researcher and professor in the Division of Public Health Sciences at WashU Medicine, for her insight on which popular summer drinks are easy to say “yes” to — and which ones we should try to limit. Plain water . “The best choice!” she said. Zero calories and refreshing, with nothing extra. From the kitchen tap or bottle filling station, it’s basically free — and easy to find. Keep a reusable, plastic-free bottle in your pack or on

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EDWARDSVILLE – The Edwardsville Rotary Criterium Festival is returning to the streets of downtown Edwardsville on Saturday, August 16, for the 15th year with all the excitement spectators have come to expect, plus a fun new opportunity for the community to take a spin on the course. A series of high-speed races for professional and novice men, women and junior racers are scheduled for 2-10:30 p.m. along a five-turn course through the heart of downtown Edwardsville. Spectators can gather along the route as well as in the Entertainment Zone in the middle of it all, on St. Louis Street and North Main Street; it will feature food trucks, beverages and live entertainment from 2-11 p.m. to coincide with the races. The Criterium will take place rain or shine, said Brian Mulhall, the festival director and member of the service organization that hosts the Criterium, the Edwardsville Rotary Club. A separate Kids Zone, set up in the parking lot next to the Wildey Theatre at 252 N. Main

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MADISON – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that lane closures on eastbound and westbound Interstate 55/70 between Exchange Avenue and Illinois 203 in St. Clair County will begin, weather permitting, Monday, Aug. 11, for bridge deck patching. Starting at 7 a.m. Monday, Aug. 11, one lane will be closed in each direction. These lane closures will remain in place daily until Monday, Aug. 25. Additional weekend restrictions are scheduled from Friday, Aug. 15, through Monday, Aug. 18, and from Friday, Aug. 22, through Monday, Aug. 25. During these weekends, traffic will be reduced to one lane in both directions. Weekend lane closures will begin at 7 p.m. Fridays for westbound traffic and 9 p.m. Fridays for eastbound traffic. All lanes are expected to reopen by the end of the day Monday, Aug. 25. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes during these closures. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions,

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SPRINGFIELD – In honor of 100 years of conservation in Illinois, the Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF) has released a series of vintage-style posters and sticker packs celebrating 12 of the state’s most iconic parks and historic sites. Designed in the bold, timeless style of Works Progress Administration (WPA)-era posters, each piece highlights a unique landmark or natural feature, from the frozen waterfalls of Starved Rock to the cypress swamps of the Cache River. “This series is a powerful tribute to the places that have shaped Illinois’ natural identity over the past 100 years,” said Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), which is celebrating its centennial in 2025. “These parks and historic sites belong to all of us here in Illinois, and IDNR proud to celebrate their legacy through art that invites a new generation to explore and protect them.” Featured locations include: Adeline

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EDWARDSVILLE – For the 33rd year, the D.A.R.E. Car-Truck-Motorcycle Show will showcase an assortment of classic, unique and vintage vehicles at a free public event that supports the long-running Edwardsville Police Department school program. The annual show is set for Sunday, August 17, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Edwardsville High School Sports Complex, 6161 Center Grove Road, across from the main EHS campus. Visitor parking for 2025 will be available in the lots on the main EHS campus, where the show usually is staged. The visitor parking and show locations are reversed this year due to ongoing main campus construction, Officer Ryan Grimes said, noting there will be signage on site that day reminding visitors of the change. “Just like for the past three decades, this year’s event is going to be an incredible display of hundreds of marvels of automotive excellence,” Grimes said. “You don’t have to be an auto expert to enjoy this terrific event,

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ST. LOUIS, MO - Mayor Cara Spencer, “While I am disappointed that we did not receive the 60-day extension we requested, we are thankful that it gives an estimated 700 households that have not yet applied for FEMA Assistance, an additional 18 days to apply. I want to acknowledge the hard work and leadership of Julian Nicks and the recovery team in making this possible, and remind folks who haven’t yet applied to get their applications in as soon as possible. For those who have applied and are waiting on a response or need to provide additional documentation, this extension does not apply to them; they are already in the system.”

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ST. LOUIS, MO — Union Avenue Opera is proud to launch its first-ever One-Act Festival , a bold new fall initiative bringing two powerful contemporary operas to the stage: dwb (driving while black) by Susan Kander and Roberta Gumbel, and As One by Laura Kaminsky, Mark Campbell, and Kimberly Reed. Performances will take place October 10 and 11 at 7:30 PM and October 12 at 3:00 PM at Union Avenue Opera. This year’s theme, “Exploring Identity and Injustice Through Opera,” invites audiences into two deeply personal and socially resonant stories told through music. Both works explore the complexities of visibility, vulnerability, and personal transformation in today’s world. In dwb (driving while black) , soprano Marsha Thompson gives voice to an African American mother’s fear and anxiety as her son approaches driving age in America. Directed by Ivan Griffin , this gripping work brings a contemporary lens to the ongoing realities of

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SPRINGFIELD – Headed to the Grandstand? The Illinois State Fair is offering a few important reminders to know before you go. These updated safety protocols at the Grandstand will help ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all guests. New this year, walk-through metal detectors and bag checks will be in place at all Grandstand entrances. No bags or purses larger than 14"x8", backpacks, or duffle bags are allowed into the Grandstand. If you leave the Grandstand, you will be required to go back through metal detectors and the bag check to re-enter. Please help us keep our venue safe by reviewing the full list of prohibited items prior to your arrival. Parking For general parking, Gates 4, 6, 7, 8, or 11. Gate 6 Lot 18 and Gate 7 Lot 21 are closest to the Grandstand. The cost is $5 per vehicle, per day. Handicap parking is available at Gates 4 and 11 with the tram service running until 8 p.m. Food & Beverages Grandstand concessions are now cashless. All drink

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SPRINGFIELD – Adults 60 and older can enter the State Fair for free on Monday, Aug. 11, when the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) hosts Senior Day in the Illinois Building, located near the main gate of the fairgrounds. “We are excited to welcome over 100 state and community partners to Senior Day to offer health screenings and information to older adults,” said IDoA Director Mary Killough . “We’ll also be hosting special events and activities throughout the day, including bingo and the crowd-pleasing Not So Newlywed Game.” Beginning at 9 a.m., the main floor of the Illinois Building will be set up with vendors and exhibitors offering free health screenings, wellness demonstrations, and giveaways. The building is air conditioned, has restrooms, and offers a limited number of motorized wheelchairs for rent. A schedule of special events and Senior Day activities is below. All events will take place in the Illinois Building auditorium unless

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SPRINGFIELD – Illinois EPA Acting Director James Jennings is announcing eight upcoming Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) one-day collection events for the Fall of 2025. These collection events are co-sponsored by units of local government and provide residents the free opportunity to safely dispose of unused or leftover hazardous products commonly found in homes. “Illinois residents continue to show us the need for our Household Hazardous Waste collection events, which provide them the opportunity and convenience to schedule their drop off at any of our locations,” said Acting Director Jennings . “By properly disposing of unused and unwanted household chemicals and products at these Illinois EPA-supported events, residents are part of the solution to protect the health of our families and neighbors, and our environment.” One-day HHW collections are open to all Illinois residents and operate from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the day of the event. Pre-registration

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul secured a preliminary injunction from the U.S. District Court for Massachusetts temporarily barring the Trump administration from misspending funds budgeted to protect communities from natural disasters before they strike. For the past 30 years, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) bipartisan Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program has provided communities across the nation with resources to fortify their infrastructure against natural disasters. In July, Raoul and a coalition of attorneys general sued the Trump administration after it attempted to illegally shut down the program. The injunction blocks the administration from spending BRIC funding on expenses other than the BRIC program while the case plays out in court. “We must do all we can to prepare for disasters and keep our communities safe,” Raoul said. “By focusing on preparation, the BRIC program protects property,

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