This year the nation begins its celebration of our 250th birthday, building up to the July 4, 2026, commemoration of the semi-quincentennial of the Declaration of Independence.

The celebration marks not only the gathering of 56 Founders at Independence Hall, but also the progression of American history, from a small experiment in self-government, to the large and powerful democratic republic that we are today.

Today, members of the Illinois House and Senate Republican caucuses joined together to call on Gov. Pritzker to veto Senate Bill 328, legislation that would serve only to enrich trial lawyers at the expense of jobs and economic growth. They also filed a lawsuit in Sangamon County court to enforce the Illinois Constitution’s Three Readings Rule, due to the blatant unconstitutional manner the Democratic Majority rammed the special interest proposal through the General Assembly after midnight on the last day of session.

When you head to Illinois lakes and waterways this summer you may encounter Craspedacusta sowerbii, also known as the peach blossom jellyfish. The peach blossom is the only known species of freshwater jellyfish, and it has been found in both Little Grassy and Devil’s Kitchen lakes in the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. The tiny invertebrates have also been spotted in Ferne Clyffe and Kinkaid Lakes and at Mermet Springs in southern Illinois.

With summer gardens sprouting up around the state, many gardeners are turning to canning to preserve the freshness of their excess bounty. But, before home canners start preserving, University of Illinois Extension urges canners to get their pressure canning gauge checked to ensure it is functioning properly. The USDA also recommends testing dial gauges annually and replacing them if they are inaccurate, according to the USDA. 

Governor JB Pritzker appeared before the House Oversight Committee in Washington, D.C. last week, where he was grilled by Congressional members over Illinois’ sanctuary state laws.

Over the course of the eight-hour hearing, Gov. Pritzker and the Democratic governors of fellow sanctuary states Minnesota and New York were questioned about their support for failed sanctuary state laws that prohibit local law enforcement agencies from working with federal authorities to detain and deport dangerous criminal illegal aliens.

Every third Sunday of June, we, as a nation, celebrate the fathers who care for us, teach us, and most of all, show us how to be better people by their example. However, underneath the grilling and the greeting cards lies a tale of resilience, love for family, and what it means to be truly American — how the celebration of Father’s Day came to be.

On Saturday, Americans will not only be saluting the Army’s 250th year with President Donald Trump at a parade in Washington, D.C. we will also be celebrating America’s symbol of freedom, the American flag. It should be a celebration of important symbols of American unity and strength – but some Democratic politicians are intent on marring the event with calls for protests – much like the ones that have turned violent in LA and other cities around the country.

PUBLIC CORRUPTION
Convicted ex-Speaker Mike Madigan sentenced to 7.5 years in prison. Convicted former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan was sentenced to 7.5 years in federal prison and a $2.5 million fine as his public corruption case concluded on Friday, June 13. U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey ruled that Madigan lied repeatedly and willfully on the witness stand when he testified in his own defense. Madigan is due to report to the Federal Bureau of Prisons on October 13, pending an appeal.

Plot twist needed in story of corruption and abuse of power

Once the influential chairman of the Illinois Democratic Party and powerful Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives, Michael J. Madigan was found guilty of wire fraud, bribery and conspiracy to commit bribery earlier this year and today was sentenced to 7.5 years in a federal penitentiary followed by 3 years probation, and ordered to immediately pay a $2.5 million fine.

Illinois is teeming with nature and the great outdoors, from beautiful landscapes to various hiking trails. The Prairie State has many outdoor treasures to offer, from a peaceful escape among the trees to a thrilling bike ride or a hike. As the great outdoors fires up the trails this summer, why not get your gear ready and visit the following hiking, biking, and exploring spots? 

Planning a road trip this summer? In a study conducted by Gas Station TV (GSTV), over 80% of people will road trip this summer, with the 4th of July holiday being the most traveled over the summer. Of those choosing to go on a road trip this summer, 54% of people said it was due to the high cost of airfare and 60% of people plan to drive over 300 miles to get to their destination this summer.

The FY 2026 budget passed by Democrats gives Governor Pritzker unprecedented spending power, including a $100 million slush fund ‘just in case’ the federal government withholds funding from other programs. This means the Governor has the authority to declare a ‘state of emergency’ as he sees fit, with the power to sweep away $100 million from other funds at his discretion.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (INDR) is offering Illinois residents an opportunity to fish without a license during Father’s Day Weekend. From Friday, June 13, through Monday, June 16, all Illinois residents aged 16 and over can fish without a license during these four days. The 2025 Free Fishing Days allows anglers to fish without the need for a fishing license, salmon stamp, or inland trout stamp. Keep in mind that all other state fishing regulations remain in effect. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is celebrating 100 years of conservation and service to the people of Illinois throughout 2025 and encouraging non-anglers to discover or rediscover the fun of fishing and to introduce children to the activity.

Water activities bring joy and adventure, but they also come with risks, especially for young children. Drowning is a leading cause of injury-related death for children, and even moments of inattention can lead to tragedy. To ensure every splash is safe, here are the top water safety tips for parents.

Summer is the perfect time to surround yourself with fresh, vibrant flowers. Illinois is home to incredible flower farms where you can pick your own blooms, take stunning photos, and enjoy peaceful countryside views. If you're looking for a fun weekend outing or a way to brighten up your home, these farms offer unforgettable experiences.

Why Visit a Flower Farm?
Walking through rows of colorful flowers, breathing in the fresh air, and handpicking your own bouquet is a simple joy that makes summer special. Many farms also host workshops, farm tours, and seasonal events, making them great spots for a relaxing day trip.

In the tiny village of Colleville-sur-Mer, in northwestern France there is a cemetery overlooking the English Channel.

Interred within its carefully manicured and landscaped grounds lie two sons of a President of the United States, three Medal of Honor recipients, and 9,383 more Americans who gave their lives for the cause of freedom in World War II. Many of them fell just downslope from the cemetery on a stretch of sand known as Omaha Beach.

BUDGET/TAXES
Democrats Pass $55.2 Billion Budget. Another year, another budget, and another near-record-breaking spending increase.

Just before midnight on the last day of the legislative session, Illinois House Democrats passed the FY26 budget that will cost taxpayers more than $55.2 billion, a $2 billion increase over last year.

As we enter the summer months, it is easy to get disoriented as we juggle extracurriculars, vacations, projects, and various other things activities. By spending more time trying to cram as much as possible into our days, our mental health can suffer. This summer, it is important to take time to foster good habits to avoid burning out, exhaustion, elevated stress levels, and overall poor health.

Below is a list of ways to mentally reset this summer.

On March 5, Illinois House Democrats launched into yet another round of floor speeches castigating President Trump and the federal government.

It was the latest episode in an ongoing saga of statehouse Democrats grandstanding on federal issues to avoid talking about Illinois’ challenges with corruption, crime or the state’s budget deficit.

Illinois, often referred to as the "Land of Lincoln," has been home to a remarkable array of individuals who have left their marks on history, culture, and society. From presidents to entertainers, athletes to innovators, the Prairie State has nurtured talent that has resonated across the globe.

Let’s explore some of Illinois' most famous residents and their enduring legacies.

Strawberries are a favorite fruit of the summer. Not only are they delicious, strawberries are also rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While you can buy them at your local grocery store, there are plenty of reasons to pick strawberries at your local U-pick farm. Here are just a few of the reasons: