The 1848 Illinois Constitution remains a defining document in our state’s history, setting key reforms in place while modernizing Illinois’ government. While the Prairie State’s new constitution went into effect on April 1,1848, the story of Illinois’ second constitution begins in the summer of 1847, when discussions and debates established the foundation for one of Illinois’ most prominent transformations.

By the mid-1800s, Illinois had outgrown the framework of its first constitution, signed in 1818. The state’s population had surged and its economy had evolved thanks to advancements in farming, newly created railroads, and, notably, the construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal. While these benefited the state immensely, they also underscored the imperfections within the 1818 Constitution, which could not meet the needs of a rapidly expanding society.

Time is running out to file your state and federal income tax returns. The filing deadline for Illinois taxpayers is Tuesday, April 15. Illinois is participating in the IRS Direct File Program this year, which means eligible taxpayers can complete their 2024 federal returns electronically for free. The Illinois Department of Revenue features several online programs to aid in tax preparation. Filing extensions can also be requested.

Since the 1960s, the concept of spring break in March and April has been alive and well all over the world and most notably in the United States. March and April serve as sweet spots for half-way through the semester and students take full advantage by taking trips or using the time to recharge before tackling the remainder of the school year.

In Illinois, three physicians are bringing their medical expertise to the state legislature. State Representatives Paul Jacobs, Bill Hauter and Kevin Schmidt are proving that healing extends beyond the clinic, as they work to shape policies that prioritize the health and well-being of their constituents.

The pictures are so famous they almost speak for themselves.

A two-day long Grand Review of the Armies in Washington DC in May 1865 to celebrate the northern victory in the Civil War.

General Eisenhower, in an open car with a wide grin and outstretched arms receiving a ticker tape parade through Manhattan following American victory in World War II.

GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Democrats Follow the Leader, Continue to Undermine Illinois. For weeks, the Democratic supermajority has wasted time on the House floor throwing tantrums against President Donald Trump’s actions to “Make America Great Again.” Democrats have decried Republican efforts to make life more affordable for everyday Americans, to secure our borders, and to cut wasteful government spending. After only 10% of the bills passed out of committee by last week’s deadline were Republican bills, and after two session days were canceled this week, House Minority Leader Tony McCombie issued the following statement:

The Original Little Red Wagon that has served many generations for over 100 years and is a staple to most childhood memories. Radio Flyer, the company characterized by its famous red wagon, trikes, and outdoor toys was created right here in Illinois by Italian immigrant Antonio Pasin.

Pasin immigrated to the United States at just 16 years old in 1914 and made a living as a craftsman, mostly selling phonograph cabinets and built the wagons to carry his woodworking tools. After building the wagons, Pasin would sell them to area toy stores. Although crafting wagons was not Pasin’s original business model, it soon would take off and transform his life.