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.

On April 10, 1912, leaving from Southampton, England and heading to New York City, the Titanic set out on its maiden voyage carrying over 2,200 passengers. Although a British ship, the Titanic has remained the most famous shipwreck in American history, claiming the lives of over 1,500 passengers when it hit an iceberg in the Atlantic Ocean just five days into the trip.

Aboard the ship were passengers from a wide range of countries, with the majority being from the United Kingdom, the United States, and Ireland. Of those on board, 108 of the passengers were from or had ties to Illinois.

While the Titanic is most known for how many victims it claimed, many families survived and lived prosperous lives, three well-known here in Illinois.

Amongst the most famed conflicts in the United States’ storied history is the Revolutionary War, a period that ultimately allowed for the birth of our young nation. While most remember the war for its iconic battles along the East Coast, beginning with the Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19 of 1775, many of the important events that steered the direction of the war took place well beyond the original colonies. Amongst the places that helped sway the tide of the war in the Union’s favor was Illinois Country – a faintly developed land that serves as the background for one of the most underappreciated chapters of our country’s early history.

State Representative Amy Elik (R-Alton) says the fight for homeschool families continues following news that the Homeschool Act, HB 2827, was held on third reading and not brought for a vote by last Friday’s House bill deadline. This bill places unnecessary mandates on homeschool families and includes an annual registration scheme. The public has been vocal in opposition to this bill. Elik’s concerns are about the cost of the mandates on different levels of government as well as the restrictions this will have on homeschool families.

Brunch refers to a unique, late morning/early afternoon meal that combines numerous and diverse breakfast and lunch items. Brunch is typically served as a sit-down or buffet-style meal in a relaxed, unhurried setting on a weekend or for special occasions, such as birthdays or anniversaries.

In the modern era of ‘foodies’ and the social media explosion, the popularity of brunch is on the rise. Many restaurants will cater their weekend menus to attract regular, loyal customers with lavish food and drink offerings. Saturdays are the most popular for brunch-goers, though Sundays can bring in large gatherings from those leaving church services or others who enjoy sleeping in after a late night.