U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] offices would move from Washington, D.C. to Central Illinois under a long shot proposal from a lawmaker who represents parts of Bloomington-Normal.

Republican state Rep. Regan Deering of Decatur said the move would provide a big economic boost to the region and improve coordination between farmers and agribusiness leaders.

Fifty years ago today one of the saddest and most difficult chapters of American military history reached its ignominious conclusion with the playing of one of the country’s most beloved Christmas tunes in a city known for its searing heat.

Inspired by the “self-determination” rhetoric of American President Woodrow Wilson at the end of World War I, nationalists in a far-off corner of Asia then known as Indochina sought to free themselves from their French colonial overlords and establish the independent nation of Vietnam. Their delegation to the Paris Peace Conference of 1919 was led by a young student who would come to be known as Ho Chi Minh.

AGRICULTURE
Illinois House Republicans Working to Save Family Farms. On Wednesday, three Illinois House Republicans, who also work as family farmers, held a Capitol news conference to highlight legislation they are sponsoring to support Illinois' agriculture industry. State Representatives Dan Swanson, Jason R. Bunting, and Wayne Rosenthal have sponsored legislation they say will help save family farms in Illinois. 

Springtime in Illinois is a time of renewal, with blooming flowers and warmer days inviting families to explore the great outdoors. For those seeking wholesome fun, farms and petting zoos offer the perfect blend of education, entertainment, and connection to nature. Here are some of the best spots to visit across Illinois this month.

Illinois House Republican lawmakers gathered in the Capitol today to present legislation protecting women’s sports. In light of a recent Executive Order handed down by President Donald Trump, which prohibits biological men from competing against biological women in sports, House Republicans have continued to work to protect women and have filed legislation to provide those needed protections.

On Wednesday, three Illinois House Republicans, who also work as family farmers, held a Capitol news conference to highlight legislation they are sponsoring to support Illinois' agriculture industry. Specifically, State Representatives Dan Swanson (R-Alpha), Jason R. Bunting (R-Emington), and Wayne Rosenthal (R-Morrisonville) have sponsored legislation they say will help save family farms in Illinois.

Illinois has a long, proud farming tradition, and farmers markets are one of the best ways to experience that firsthand. Whether you're searching for farm-fresh produce, artisanal goods, or just looking to support local growers, these markets are where communities come together to celebrate good food and great company.

The Best Farmers Markets in Illinois
Every year, the American Farmland Trust and Farmers Market Coalition rank the top farmers markets, and Illinois has some incredible spots worth visiting.