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EDWARDSVILLE — McKenna Vereeke earned the title of first runner-up in the Miss Illinois 2024 pageant held in Marion, Illinois. This marks the second time Vereeke has achieved first runner-up in this competition. "I felt so incredibly honored competing against so many talented and intelligent women across the state," Vereeke said. "I felt I belonged up there and was honored to be so close to getting the opportunity." Vereeke, who won her local title as Miss Heart of Illinois, spent an entire year preparing for the state pageant. Her preparation included extensive community service, practicing her talent for violin performance, and working with local directors and their teams on mock interviews. "The private interview was the most intimidating part," Vereeke noted. "Miss Illinois is like a job interview and an interview for grad school combined." The competition spanned from June 10 to 15, 2024, and included a variety of segments such as a 10-minute private interview, fitness

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Edwardsville, Illinois - Jay Keeven, candidate for State Representative is proud to announce the endorsement of the National Federation of Independent Business in his upcoming election. "Small businesses provide great local jobs and local economic growth," said Keeven. "I'm running for State Representative to bring common sense back to state government. Small businesses have faced big challenges recently, with state mandates, forced COVID closures, changes in the workforce, and inflation. I will support small businesses and greater opportunities here in Illinois. I’m proud of this endorsement from the NFIB and their thousands of hardworking members." "Legislators in Springfield have repeatedly voted for more mandates and regulations on small businesses, even in an era of elevated inflation and qualified-worker shortages," said Noah Finley, Illinois State Director for NFIB. "It's important to change the mindset in Springfield. Instead of layering red tape on Illinois' small

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COLUMBIA – In a concerted effort to combat human trafficking, the Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Trafficking Enforcement Bureau arrested five individuals during a two-day operation in Monroe County. The enforcement action, which took place from July 31 to August 1, 2024, in the Columbia area, targeted individuals seeking to engage in commercial sex acts. The operation led to the arrest and charging of the following individuals: - Deepak Chiluveru, 24, of St. Louis, Mo., charged with indecent solicitation of a child (Class 3 Felony), traveling to meet a child (Class 3 Felony), grooming (Class 4 Felony), and solicitation to meet a child (Class 4 Felony). - Tuan M. Huynh, 34, of St. Louis, Mo., charged with indecent solicitation of a child (Class 3 Felony), traveling to meet a child (Class 3 Felony), grooming (Class 4 Felony), solicitation to meet a child (Class 4 Felony), and armed violence (Class X Felony). - Leslie M. Johnson, 56, of St. Louis,

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BELLEVILLE — The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of K9 Havik, who died unexpectedly on Friday, July 26, 2024. Havik, a 9 1/2-year-old Black German Shepherd, had been a dedicated member of the department since he was 14 months old, serving alongside Sheriff Lee Hilty. The St. Clair County Sheriff's Office said throughout his career, Havik was instrumental in numerous narcotic arrests and deployments, contributing to the safe apprehension of suspects and the recovery of lost citizens. His dedication and service earned him a special place in the hearts of both the department and the community. “Havik’s drive was to always do the best he could and his playful presence will be missed,” the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office stated. “K9 Havik was a big part in our department and in the community. Havik’s love for work and for everyone around him was seen in his eyes every day. We are grateful for the time and dedication

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Office of Admissions at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville announced today that the fall 2025 admission applications are open. Undergraduate and graduate students may apply online at siue.edu/apply . "Students and families continue to seek out SIUE as a top-quality choice for higher education in Illinois and the Greater St. Louis area," said Samantha Ray, director of undergraduate admissions. "Graduates from SIUE earn more on average than other Illinois universities while being charged significantly less for tuition. At SIUE, we seek to make upward socioeconomic mobility possible for everyone." The $40 undergraduate application fee is being waived through December 1. There is a graduate application fee of $40. SAT/ACT scores are not required for admission consideration. For scholarship consideration, students are encouraged to apply by December 1. SIUE offers several need- and merit-based scholarships for undergraduate students, including the prestigious

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CHICAGO – This August, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is celebrating National Black Business Month. Through the Office of Minority Economic Empowerment (OMEE), DCEO will host a series of virtual and in-person events highlighting Black businesses, organizations, and community leaders while also providing resources to Black businesses and entrepreneurs. This monthlong celebration will also include a social media campaign inviting and encouraging Illinoisans to shop Black-owned businesses through the “Shop Black Saturdays” social media campaign. Information about resources and events can be found on the DCEO website . “Black-owned businesses are the heart and soul of our state's economic success,” said Governor JB Pritzker . “This Black Business Month, we celebrate and honor the incredible contributions of Black entrepreneurs who drive innovation and enrich our communities. I couldn't be happier to join th

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– U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) this week in introducing a bicameral resolution aimed at encouraging the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide a pathway for individuals who have been unjustly deported from the United States to return and reunite with their families. The Chance to Come Home Resolution calls on DHS to use its legal authority to establish a centralized and independent process for reviewing emergency requests from individuals who were wrongfully removed from the country. “Far too many men and women have been cruelly, wrongfully deported—separating them from their families and the country they’ve come to love,” said Duckworth. “The immigrants who reside in America are our teachers, servicemembers, business owners, essential workers and more. For all that they contribute to our nation, I am proud to help Senator Booker introduce this resolution that advocates for a fair, humane

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ALTON - Country megastar Scotty McCreery said he’s excited to take the Alton Amphitheater stage on Aug. 9, 2024 as the amphitheater's first country act since 2018 draws closer. McCreery shared more insights into the upcoming performance on Our Daily Show! on Riverbender.com . While he’s been around the St. Louis region before, the amphitheater concert will be McCreery’s first-ever visit to Alton. “I’ve been around the St. Louis area a bunch,” McCreery said. “I’m not sure we’ve been to Alton specifically, so I’m excited to get there and see everybody and get to know the town.” He added that he’s especially excited to perform some hits from his latest album, “Rise & Fall.” “I really think it’s the best response to an album I’ve gotten the whole way through - and for me, I’m glad to hear that, because I poured my heart and soul into this record and love every single

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ALTON - After lots of hard work and preparation, Alton Little Theater is officially kicking off their production of “ Oliver! The Musical ,” with showtimes starting tonight (Friday, Aug. 2, 2024) and running throughout the month of August. Executive Director Lee Cox shared more about the musical as it draws closer on Our Daily Show! on Riverbender.com . She said Sunday’s show has completely sold out, with less than 20 tickets remaining for opening night. While ticket sales are going well for the remaining dates, Cox emphasized there are still plenty of tickets left to purchase by visiting altonlittletheater.org or calling the Box Office at 618-462-3205. Cox said the “Oliver!” cast, which features several young talents and some first-time on-stage actors, “are so excited” to take the stage at ALT. While they’re already hesitant to see rehearsals end, Cox said she’s preparing a pizza party for the cast after the sho

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Photos courtesy of 618 Drone Service . ST. LOUIS - For over a century, two mysterious old buildings have stood above the Mississippi River on tiny, island-like platforms. Visitors near and far may wonder what they’re still doing there today, and what purpose they once served - and the answers might surprise them. According to the City of St . Louis website, these are Intake Water Tower #1 and Intake Water Tower #2 . Located just off the Missouri coast near the Chain of Rocks bridge, both buildings originally helped supply water to the city, which was experiencing rapid population growth during their construction. Today, they’re both classified as city landmarks, as they have been since 1971. Tower #1 was built in 1894 and was designed in a “Richardsonian Romanesque style” by architect William Eames. The structure includes “an asymmetrically-placed turret with a conical roof, and rusticated limestone facades,” and once housed “living

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MADISON COUNTY – The Madison County Sheriff's Office conducted a traffic safety campaign throughout July, aiming to remind motorists to slow down to save lives. The initiative, which involved collaboration with other state and local law enforcement agencies across Illinois, sought to reduce highway fatalities. During the campaign, the Madison County Sheriff's Office issued 35 speeding citations, made one felony arrest, cited three individuals for driving with suspended or revoked licenses, and issued 11 citations to uninsured motorists. Additionally, 22 other traffic-related citations were handed out. The speed enforcement effort was supported by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. "We are committed to ensuring the safety of our roadways," the Madison County Sheriff's Office stated. "By enforcing speed limits and other traffic laws, we aim to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities on our highways." The campaign highlights

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FAIRMONT CITY – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced lane restrictions will be encountered on eastbound I-70 beginning Monday, August 5, 2024, at 7 a.m. through Thursday, August 9, 2024, at 4 p.m. Weather permitting, the right lane will be closed between the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge and the on ramp from Packers Ave. All entrance and exit ramps at Packers Ave will remain open. These restrictions are needed to do drainage repair work. IDOT Day Labor forces will make the needed improvements. Full access will be restored as soon as possible. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.

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ALTON - The 17 Pearls Foundation is inviting the Alton, IL community to a special Bicycle Helmet Giveaway event on Aug. 10, 2024 from 5-8 p.m. at James Killion Park in Alton, IL. BIKEWISE, a program of the 17 Pearls Foundation, is grant funded by the Agency for Community Transit (ACT) and aims to promote safety and wellness among school-aged children in the Alton, IL area. The St. Louis Children's Hospital will be on-site to ensure that each bicycle helmet is properly fitted, providing expert guidance to help guarantee maximum protection. "We are excited to host this event and provide our community's children with the safety gear they need," said Danielle Bratton, President, 17 Pearls Foundation. "Thanks to the generous support of ACT and the expertise of St. Louis Children's Hospital, we can make a significant impact on our children's safety." The event will feature fun activities for the whole family, including educational sessions on bike safety, refreshments, and the opportunity

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS — The Fairview Heights Police Department, in collaboration with state and local law enforcement agencies, conducted a traffic safety campaign throughout July, emphasizing the importance of slowing down to save lives. During the campaign, the Fairview Heights Police Department issued 80 speeding citations and 25 citations for other violations. Additionally, seven traffic arrests were made for license violations, and one individual was arrested for driving under the influence of drugs. The speed enforcement effort was funded by federal traffic safety funds, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. The campaign's primary goal was to enhance road safety and reduce the number of traffic-related fatalities in the state. By focusing on speed enforcement, the Fairview Heights Police Department hopes to remind motorists of the critical role that speed plays in traffic safety and the potential consequences of ignoring speed limits.

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HARDIN - On July 13, 2024, at 4:51 PM, Deputies with the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office conducted a Sex Offender Compliance Check at a residence in the Village of Hardin, in Calhoun County, Illinois. Subsequent to an investigation, the offender, Tammy E. Bailey, aged 42, of Hardin, Illinois was arrested for the following offenses: Violation of the Sex Offender Registry. Bailey was arrested without incident and transported to the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office. As is now required under the provisions of the new House Bill 3653, known as the SAFE-T Act; Bailey was booked and released with a Notice to Appear at a later date at the Calhoun County Courthouse. All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty.

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EAST ST. LOUIS, IL — On Friday, August 2nd at 12:30 p.m. CDT, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) will visit R3 Development to present the organization with a $1 million check to expand its workforce development training for youth in the Metro East. Budzinski secured the funding in a recent bipartisan government funding bill after submitting a request for the resources during the House of Representatives’ Community Project Funding process. In total, Budzinski secured $136.1 million for community projects throughout Illinois’ 13th Congressional District. R3 Development will use the funding to renovate its facilities into a new workforce training facility, known as "The LAB,” that will give underserved youth access to skills-based training, leadership development and educational opportunities – connecting them with good-paying jobs and serving as an economic boon for the larger community. “We are thrilled to continue holding out hope and

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BELLEVILLE /GRANITE CITY/MARYVILLE - In 2023, there were approximately 96 overdose deaths in Madison County and 66 in St. Clair County. More than 70 percent of those deaths involved opioids and most involved fentanyl. The national average of overdose death involving opioids is 75 percent. (cdc.org) To help decrease these number, Chestnut Health SystemsÔ has installed vending machines that provide free access to Narcan®/naloxone. Community members can access the machines during regular business hours in the following Chestnut locations: 50 Northgate Industrial Drive, Granite City, IL 2148 Vadalabene Drive, Maryville, IL 12 North 64th Street, Belleville, IL “Narcan®/naloxone is a non-prescription medication and when used appropriately can block or reverse the effects of an opioid overdose,” said Dan Hutchison, associate director of community health at Chestnut. “The naloxone available in the vending machines is easy and safe to use. It might save th

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SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is highlighting the 60th Anniversary of the iconic 1964 Ford Mustang at its annual Vehicle Show in Springfield. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7, in the State Capitol Complex at the corner of Edwards Street and College Street. “The Vehicle Show brings together car enthusiasts and families from across the Midwest to downtown Springfield,” Giannoulias said. “A broad collection of classic vehicles featuring all makes and models will be on display this year. We look forward to hosting the event that will help draw visitors to Springfield and provide a boost to local businesses.” “The Illinois Secretary of State's Classic Vehicle Show is an exciting event that provides a unique experience to visitors and local residents alike,” said Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher. “This iconic car show has left an indelible mark on automotive history, embodying

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — In a significant development, the St. Louis County Family Court has certified East St. Louis resident Corey Brinkley, 17, as an adult in a murder case. On Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney's Office issued charges against Brinkley for Murder First Degree and Armed Criminal Action. Brinkley resides in the 600 block of North 22nd Street in East St. Louis and is currently being held on a $1 million cash-only bond. The case stems from a suspicious death investigation initiated on Jan. 6, 2024. According to the probable cause statement, a St. Louis County patrol officer discovered the body of Jaimarcus P. McDaniel, also 17, lying face down in the snow in an open field in Jennings, Mo. The initial investigation revealed that McDaniel had suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including two to the head and several to the chest, shoulders, thigh, and forearm. St. Louis County Police said Detective #1 took the lead in the investigation,

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GODFREY – Revity Credit Union employees joined together to raise $1,340.00 in the month of July to benefit Hope Animal Rescues through their Revel for a Cause Jeans Program. The Revel for a Cause Jeans Program is an employee funded program that gives Revity Credit Union employees the opportunity to support the credit union philosophy of people helping people. By making a monthly, monetary donation to a local organization, Revity Credit Union employees can wear jeans and tennis shoes on Fridays and Saturdays during that month. At Revity Credit Union the company focuses on giving back to our community and caring for our members. Revity nominated Hope Animal Rescues in Godfrey to receive the donation as it is evident how much they value helping the community by saving abandoned pets and educating on the importance of doing so. During the month of July, Revity Credit Union employees donated $1,340.00 to Hope Animal Rescues. This donation will help make a difference for pets by providin

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