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Did you know that the average American family spends nearly 30 hours a month planning, shopping for, and cooking meals? That’s equivalent to almost a full workweek dedicated to getting dinner on the table! For busy families juggling work, school, and extracurricular activities, this can feel overwhelming. However, with effective meal planning strategies, families can save time, reduce stress, and even promote healthier eating habits. Let’s dive into some practical meal planning tips that can transform your kitchen chaos into a well-oiled machine. Understanding the Importance of Meal Planning Meal planning is not just about deciding what to eat; it’s a strategic approach to managing time, finances, and health. A well-thought-out plan can help families avoid the last-minute scramble for takeout, which often leads to unhealthy food choices and unexpected expenses. By dedicating a little time upfront, families can enjoy nutritious meals that cater to everyone’s

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JERSEYVILLE - Students from Jersey Community Unit School District No. 100 recently showcased their skills at the I.D.E.A. Regional Drafting Competition, which was held at Lewis & Clark Community College. The Lewis and Clark event featured a variety of drafting challenges. Among the Jersey participants, Cooper Gillis earned a third-place award in the "3D Architectural CAD" category, while Ella Smith also secured third place in "3D Assembly Modeling." Corah Derrick achieved notable recognition with a second-place finish in "3D Architectural CAD." The competition highlighted the students' hard work and dedication, with all participants receiving commendations for their outstanding efforts. Drew Short, a faculty member, expressed gratitude to Lewis & Clark Community College for facilitating this opportunity for the students.

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JERSEY — A fugitive was apprehended by local law enforcement on Feb. 23, 2025, after being spotted near a residence in Delhi. Shawn A. Wood, 35, was wanted by both the Alton Police Department and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office when Jersey County Sheriff’s Sgt. Kevin Ayres and Deputy Travis Trisler observed him walking along Old U.S. Highway 67. As Deputy Trisler approached Wood, he fled on foot but was quickly apprehended and subdued on the ground until Sgt. Ayres arrived to assist. During the arrest, authorities discovered that Wood was armed with a loaded handgun concealed in his wristband. Additionally, several grams of methamphetamine were found in his pocket. Following the arrest, law enforcement sought and executed a search warrant at the residence in Delhi where Wood had been staying. The search yielded several cannabis plants, assorted drug paraphernalia, and multiple open vehicle titles. Jersey County State’s Attorney Ben Goetten subsequently charge

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On March 3, 2025, we take a moment to reflect on significant events that have occurred on this date throughout history. Let's look at 1875, when the first performance of Johann Strauss II's famous waltz, 'The Blue Danube,' took place in Vienna. This composition not only became a classic of the waltz repertoire but also symbolized the elegance and cultural richness of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The piece remains popular to this day, often associated with ballroom dancing and celebratory occasions around the world. In 1931, the United States adopted 'The Star-Spangled Banner' as its national anthem. Written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812, the anthem encapsulates the spirit of resilience and patriotism for Americans. Its adoption marked a significant cultural moment, uniting citizens under a common symbol of national pride. Moving to the realm of sports, March 3, 1991, marked a historic moment in basketball when the legendary Michael Jordan scored 69 points in a single

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WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee—joined her fellow SFRC Democratic colleagues Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Coons (D-DE), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) in issuing the following statement on the Trump Administration’s reckless termination of nearly all U.S. foreign assistance programs: “It is clear that the Trump Administration’s foreign assistance ‘review’ was not a serious effort or attempt at reform but rather a pretext to dismantle decades of U.S. investment that makes America safer, stronger and more prosperous. There is no indication Secretary Rubio conducted a program-by-program review of the more than 9,000 awards or considered the dire national security implications of these rash actions. Ending programs first and asking questions later only

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY – The St. Louis County Police Department Bureau of Crimes Against Persons has identified Cortez Scott, 30, as the victim of a homicide that occurred in Bellefontaine Neighbors on February 28, 2025. Police responded to a call for service regarding a shooting in the 10100 block of Maraldo Place at 8:22 p.m. Upon arrival, officers found an adult male suffering from life-threatening gunshot injuries. Scott was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting is ongoing. Authorities have not released further details at this time. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210. Those wishing to remain anonymous or potentially receive a reward can reach out to CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477). Additional information will be made available as it is obtained.

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JERSEYVILLE – If you’ve ever wondered how to make a T-shirt quilt or big block quilt, the Jersey County Arts Council has you covered with a series of quilting classes throughout the month of March. Classes will be held at the Jersey County Arts Council space in the First Presbyterian Church, located at 400 S. State St. in Jerseyville. Interested attendees will need to provide their own supplies, including fabric, but the first night of classes will include more detailed instruction on which items to buy. Some supplies will be available at each class for a fee. In addition to learning how to make a T-shirt and/or block quilt, the classes will also cover basic piecing, sewing, and quilting skills. Attendees are strongly encouraged to attend each class and do their “homework” to ensure successful completion. To secure your spot, a nonrefundable $20 donation to the Jersey County Arts Council is required. To find out more about the upcoming quilt classes and

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SPRINGFIELD - Hunters in Illinois harvested a preliminary record statewide total of 1,045 wild turkeys during the 2024-2025 fall archery turkey season. The total compares last year’s harvest of 803 and the 5-year average of 763 birds harvested. The previous record total for fall archery season was in 2015 when 851 turkeys were taken. This season 27,422 permits were sold (excluding landowner permits) compared to 25,741 for the 2023-2024 season. The season dates were Oct. 1, 2024 through Jan. 19, 2025 and all 102 counties were open for hunting. Harvest reports were 51% male and 49% female compared to 54% males and 46% hens last year. A total of 62% of hunters reported using crossbows versus 37% using compound bows and 1% using traditional bows. The top five counties for fall archery wild turkey harvest this season were Fayette, 37; Jefferson, 28; Pike, 25; Marion, 24; and Jo Daviess, 23. The table below includes the preliminary 2024-2025 county-by-county fall archery turkey

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Ranking Member of the CST Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation—and U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) demanded answers from National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Acting Administrator Janet Petro and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Acting Administrator Chris Rocheleau on why, despite Elon Musk’s conflicts of interest, each agency has or may soon award billions of dollars in federal contracts to private companies controlled by Musk while he serves as a government employee. “If accurate, this presents a striking new phase in Mr. Musk’s conflicts of interest. Mr. Musk holds unprecedented leverage over you and your agencies by directing ongoing efforts to substantially influence, alter, and undercut your departments’ operations, personnel, and funding. Simultaneously

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Cory Booker (D-NJ)—founding co-chairs of the Senate’s first-ever Environmental Justice Caucus —joined U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) and other Senate colleagues in introducing bicameral legislation to permanently codify the Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). The introduction of the Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act comes after Attorney General Pam Bondi’s recent order eliminating all environmental justice efforts at the DOJ on her first day as Attorney General. “The Trump Administration seems determined to undermine the protections aimed at helping every American—no matter their zip code—to be able to breathe safe air, drink clean water and live, work and play on uncontaminated land,” said Senator Duckworth. “Our bill would help ensure the Justice

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EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville concluded its annual Black Heritage Month (BHM) on Feb. 28, 2025. The month of February was amply seasoned with presentations, speakers, information, activities and events that challenged the mind, fed the soul and stirred the spirit. This year’s theme was Black Legacy: Embers of Resilience. The time evoked pride and joy, smiles and laughter. It provoked thought and raised questions. On display were creativity, community engagement and culture. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville provides students with a high-quality education that powerfully transforms the lives of all individuals who seek something greater. A premier metropolitan university, SIUE is creating social and economic mobility for individuals while also powering the workforce of the future. Built on the foundation of a broad-based liberal education, and enhanced by hands-on research and real-world experiences, the academic preparation SIUE students

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CHICAGO – Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced investments in Holcim’s Chicago operational headquarters for the planned spin-off of its North American business to be named Amrize. Holcim’s $18.6 million investment in capital expenditures, bolstered by an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement with DCEO, will establish Chicago as the operational headquarters for its planned North American spin-off, poised to meet the growing needs for advanced building solutions across the country. “Illinois is thrilled that Holcim will continue to grow its presence in our state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Thanks to our competitive incentive programs, paired with our skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and commitment to innovation, Illinois continues to position itself as a premier destination for businesses to grow and locate.” As part of the State's comprehensive

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CHICAGO – Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced up to $10 million in funding for the Apprenticeship Expansion Competitive Grant Program to support workforce programs that expand Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) and pre-apprenticeship programs leading to RAPs. Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) process. “Since day one, my administration has prioritized expanding access to apprenticeship programs as a pathway to high-paying jobs,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With the new Apprenticeship Expansion Competitive Grant program, we’re building on that commitment, initially prioritizing non-traditional and in-demand sectors to increase apprenticeship opportunities and support employers. These are the types of strategic investments that ensure we have a strong workforce in critical fields that drive future growth. And most importantly,

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) joined a bipartisan group of colleagues in reintroducing the Farm to Fly Act to create new, robust markets for American agricultural products and to strengthen domestic energy resources. The bill would foster the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) within existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs, allowing for greater collaboration, and ensuring USDA’s SAF definitions reflect eligibility for American agricultural crops. “By utilizing sustainable aviation fuel, we can cut harmful emissions, support family farmers and reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “I’m proud to join Congressman Max Miller and colleagues on both sides of the aisle on the Farm to Fly Act — legislation that will allow homegrown biofuels to power our aviation sector while supporting growth in rural economies. With this bill we can

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced the application process for candidates interested in serving as the next U.S. Attorney or U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Illinois. The Southern District encompasses 38 counties ranging from the Metro East region eastward to the Illinois-Indiana line and all points south. U.S. ATTORNEY FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT: There are 94 federal districts nationwide, each with a presidentially appointed U.S. Attorney. The U.S. Attorney is the chief federal law enforcement officer in their district and is also involved in civil litigation where the United States is a party. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for Southern District of Illinois has branch offices in Fairview Heights, Benton, and East St. Louis. The district is currently served by Acting U.S. Attorney Ali M. Summers. U.S. MARSHAL FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT: U.S. Marshals are appointed by the president to serve the 94 federal districts nationwide.

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Dear Editor: The people of Godfrey are fortunate to have a dedicated public servant in Village Clerk Susan Robbins. Clerk Robbins has served well since she started in the Clerk's Office in 2019. Clerk Robbins' previous experience in Godfrey Township and Clerk Robbins' prior experience in management have been very beneficial to the people of Godfrey. Clerk Robbins has learned and mastered all of the skills needed to continue her high performance as the Clerk of the Village of Godfrey. In this year's local election there is no need to settle for anything less than the high caliber that Clerk Robbins will continue to give us in Godfrey. There is no need to train a new Clerk. There is no need for anything less than the excellence that Clerk Robbins is already giving to Godfrey. On or before April 1, 2025, I ask you to join me in voting Clerk Susan Robbins to a full term in office to continue the high-quality work she has already shown to us. Take your friends and neighbors with you

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ALTON - Dr. Jerrica Ampadu knows the importance of helping young nursing students; after all, someone helped her. Ampadu, one of the YWCA’s ten 2025 Women of Distinction, will be honored at the Y’s annual gala for her commitment to the community. She serves as the Interim Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), where she also teaches. After a lifetime of helping young nurses get their start, she’s proud of the work she has done to advocate for others. “For 30 years, I have been mentoring and advocating for people who look like me who want to become nurses,” she said. “I firmly believe it is my purpose. It’s very humbling and it’s also very rewarding to know that humanity begets humanity. Someone helped me, so I help other students, and then they help other students.” After graduating from college, Ampadu immediately started mentoring other nursing students through various pathwa

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EAST ST. LOUIS - He was dressed in a bright orange jumpsuit. She was clad in a gold one. Both, with their wrists and ankles chained together, sat under watchful eyes of armed law enforcement officers. Mr. Scott and Ms. McCottrell, detainees at St. Clair County Jail, spoke to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Charter High School (CHS) students on Wednesday, Feb. 26 in the Multipurpose Room on the Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Campus. The dialogue was part of the East St. Louis 40 Days of Nonviolence and Beyond initiative that started Jan. 25 and will conclude March 4. SIUE was one of many partners working with the project’s committee in its ongoing mission to deter and ultimately eliminate violence in the East St. Louis area. The two detainees, sitting at their respective tables in front of the roomful of CHS students, relayed their experiences and advice. “Jail ain’t fun,” said Scott. “I encourage everyone

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ALTON - Two environmental advocates recently stopped by “Our Daily Show!” with CJ Nasello to talk about trash pickup. Rusty Wheat, the one-man “Chain Gang” who picks up trash in Roxana and Wood River, has collaborated with Sparks Junk Removal owner Denise Sparks to spread the word about reporting litter and disposing of trash. They shared information about new laws that have taken effect and new resources in Madison County that aim to combat litter. “All I want to do is get the community cleaned up. That’s all,” Wheat said. “I think you’re going to see more concentrated police effort coming on because those new laws have only been in effect a short period of time and Chris Slusser has only been in office a short period of time. The police, I can only envision that they’re putting their brains together and their attack plan. I suspect there are going to be some big changes. In fact, if there’s not, that’s

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SPRINGFIELD - Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration: Employment Security Advisory Board Kelli Harrison will serve as a Member of the Employment Security Advisory Board.* Harrison has dedicated her career protecting working families across the Midwest. She began her career working at the Mitsubishi plant in Normal, IL from 1989-2016. She currently serves as the UAW Legislative Coordinator for Region 4. Prior to her current position, she served as the Financial Secretary of UAW Local 2488 and served as a trustee with Labor Discussion Leader. Harrison also teaches classes about strengthening the labor movement at the USAW Pat Greathouse Center in Ottawa. Rob Karr will continue to serve as a Member of the Employment Security Advisory Board.* Karr joined the Illinois Retail Merchants Association staff in 1994, coordinating IRMA’s government relations efforts. In that capacity,

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