JCJ News
Chicago’s Wild Blossom Meadery introduces new generation to ancient elixir
By CELESTE HUTTES Illinois Farm Bureau Partners Wild Blossom Meadery & Winery works to bring back an ancient elixir, testing out new and unique flavors all while paying ode to the bees that make this buzzworthy beverage possible.
Read MoreLet’s Cook! – July 24, 2025
As I am writing this column, it’s really hot outside! I have no desire to stand outside at the grill, but still I want to share this recipe. It’s been one of my favorite recipes.
Read MoreLocal legislators launch school supply drive
As families prepare for the upcoming school year, State Senator Jil Tracy (R-Quincy), Representative Kyle Moore (R-Quincy), and Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) are inviting the community to help local students start the year strong through their first Back-to-School Supplies Drive. The drive runs now through August 8, with all donated supplies benefiting students across their…
Read MoreIDOL Publishes 2025 Prevailing Wage Rates Across Illinois
The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) has released the 2025 prevailing wage rates for construction trades for all counties in the State. The updated rates, which took effect Tuesday, July 15, are the result of IDOL’s annual statewide survey conducted under the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act. The Act requires that workers on publicly funded construction…
Read MoreIntoxicating hemp remains unregulated in Illinois following legislative inaction
By Isabella Schoonover, Simon Carr Medill Illinois News Bureau Justin and Anna Ward of Stoney Branch Farms were anxiously awaiting action on legislation to regulate intoxicating hemp products this spring in Illinois, which would have determined the future of their family-run hemp business in Rushville. But it never came. Hemp farming has been legal and…
Read MoreIDHS preserves LGBTQIA+ youth support on 988 Lifeline amid federal cuts
Last Thursday, the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) announced that the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in Illinois will continue to provide mental health support services for LGBTQIA+ youth, after the federal government ended funding last month for specific support on the 988 Lifeline. “The Trump Administration’s decision to end these specialized services is…
Read MoreJERSEY: Helen Gubser’s get an unimaginable surprise with dedication of new bench
By Steven Spencer If you’ve been to the Jerseyville Public Library lately you may have noticed the new bronze bench outside that has quite a story to it. Longtime Library Board Member and volunteer, Helen Gubser, received an unimaginable surprise a couple weeks ago with the unveiling of the bench outside the entrance of the…
Read MoreNumber of Grafton liquor licenses still on the table
By Steven Spencer Grafton City Council left ordinance 782 on the table following their Tuesday, July 15, meeting. The ordinance would increase the number of Class A liquor licenses from 17 to 18 and was tabled at the last regular council meeting on June 17. Council made a motion to take the item off the…
Read MorePlanning and Zoning approves rezoning for two new restaurants and welcomes new Director of Building and Zoning
By Steven Spencer The Jerseyville Planning and Zoning Board approved two rezoning items at their meeting on Thursday, July 17. A petition to rezone the future site of Joe’s Pizza and Pasta from B-3 to B-3 with special use for alcohol was approved by the board and sent to the city council for final approval.…
Read MoreBuilding Stronger Communities: U of I Extension Offers Dynamic Programs for Personal and Professional Growth
By Valerie Belusko University of Illinois Extension community and economic development educator Whether you’re a business owner, educator, government official, or community volunteer, University of Illinois Extension has powerful programs designed to help you lead, connect, and thrive. Led by Community and Economic Development Educator Valerie Belusko, these workshops offer practical tools for improving communication,…
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