June 2026

IML comments on state budget regarding local government distributive fund

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Municipal League (IML) issued the following statement in response to Illinois General Assembly passage of the State Fiscal Year 2027 Budget, which maintains the current 6.47% of income tax revenue that local governments receive:   “The Illinois Municipal League appreciates the General Assembly’s collaboration with local officials throughout the State Fiscal Year […]

IML comments on state budget regarding local government distributive fund Read More »

IML statement praises passage of E-Bike regulations

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Municipal League (IML) issued the following statement after the Illinois General Assembly approved SB 3484 (Sen. Villivalam, D-Chicago), legislation establishing a clear and enforceable framework for emerging micromobility devices, including electric bicycles and scooters:   “This legislation will improve public safety by providing municipalities across Illinois with the tools needed to regulate electric bicycles

IML statement praises passage of E-Bike regulations Read More »

Kaden Sparrow from Steelville graduates from Missouri Military Academy

MEXICO, Mo. – On May 16, 2026, Kaden Sparrow from Steelville, IL graduated from Missouri Military Academy (MMA), one of the nation’s top college-preparatory military boarding schools.   Sparrow helped MMA’s Class of 2026 achieve 100% college acceptance.   The class has been offered more than $13 million in college scholarships.   Providing private, college-preparatory

Kaden Sparrow from Steelville graduates from Missouri Military Academy Read More »

Local students named to Missouri State University’s spring 2026 dean’s list

SPRINGFIELD, MO — Each semester, students at Missouri State University who attain academic excellence are named to the dean’s list.   For undergraduate students, criteria include enrollment in at least 12 credit hours during the spring semester and at least a 3.50 grade point average (on a 4.00 scale).   More than 5,000 students were

Local students named to Missouri State University’s spring 2026 dean’s list Read More »

MDC honors Dan and Connie Burkhardt as Master Conservationists

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Conservation Commission and Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recently honored Dan and Connie Burkhardt of Frontenac with their Master Conservationist Award during the Commission’s May 29 open meeting in Washington.     Conservation Commissioners and MDC recently honored Dan and Connie Burkhardt with their Master Conservationist Award. Shown l-r: MDC

MDC honors Dan and Connie Burkhardt as Master Conservationists Read More »

MDC invites public comments on proposed camping permits

JEFFERSON CITY – Camping is a popular activity for many people in Missouri including hunters, anglers, floaters, and other outdoor enthusiasts. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) manages about 1,000 conservation areas around the state with more than 320 offering free camping. While camping remains a popular activity on MDC areas, campers and staff have noted

MDC invites public comments on proposed camping permits Read More »

MDC modifies regulations for nonresident deer hunting for this fall and seeks public comments for future changes

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Conservation Commission approved proposed regulation changes at its May 29 open meeting in Washington from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) regarding nonresident deer hunting. The approved regulation change for the upcoming 2026 deer season reduces the nonresident antlered buck bag limit from two to one. Nonresident landowners who qualify

MDC modifies regulations for nonresident deer hunting for this fall and seeks public comments for future changes Read More »

MDC proposes permits for use of unstaffed firearms shooting ranges

JEFERSON CITY  – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) offers free recreational firearms shooting on more than 35 unstaffed shooting ranges around the state. The ranges were designed decades ago primarily for hunters with most traditional use being in the spring and fall in preparation for various hunting seasons. According to MDC, range use has

MDC proposes permits for use of unstaffed firearms shooting ranges Read More »

Memorial Hospital recognizes Kristina Jany, RN

CHESTER – Memorial Hospital is proud to recognize Kristina Jany, RN, for earning the Nurse Lead III (Expert) designation through the hospital’s Professional Practice Development Program.     This recognition honors nurses who demonstrate a high level of professional growth, leadership, continued learning, and commitment to excellent patient care. The program is designed to support

Memorial Hospital recognizes Kristina Jany, RN Read More »

NFIB applauds passage of Illinois bill creating career and technical education opportunities for high school students

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the state’s leading small business association, applauds the Illinois General Assembly’s passage of legislation expanding career and technical training opportunities for Illinois students.   “There is a skills gap in Illinois’ workforce,” said NFIB Illinois State Director Noah Finley. “SB 3070 addresses this challenge head-on, creating

NFIB applauds passage of Illinois bill creating career and technical education opportunities for high school students Read More »