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RED BUD, IL. — A community park in Red Bud has received a vibrant new lease on life. Thanks to a strategic partnership between the City of Red Bud and national design firm Farnsworth Group, Ratz Memorial Park now features a brand-new splash pad and upgraded amenities designed to bring families together and boost local tourism. The transformation was made possible through an Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, secured with the support of Farnsworth Group’s planning and engineering team. “The grant was of utmost importance; in fact, I don't think the project would have happened without the grant,” said Red Bud Mayor Susan Harbaugh recently, celebrating the park’s reopening. At the heart of the renovation is a 2,000-square-foot splash pad, one of the most requested features by local families. The zero-depth water play area is fully ADA-compliant and designed for children of all

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a coalition of 17 attorneys general and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, today called on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to remove burdensome restrictions on mifepristone, one of two drugs used in medication abortions. Raoul and the coalition submitted a filing presenting extensive evidence on the safety of medication abortion in their states as well as the burdens imposed by the FDA’s continued restrictions on mifepristone. In today’s filing (attached), Raoul and the coalition join and supplement a citizen petition filed with the FDA by Massachusetts, California, New Jersey and New York on June 5, urging the agency to eliminate unnecessary restrictions on this safe medication that make it much harder for patients to access medication abortions, particularly in rural and medically underserved areas. “The existing restrictions on mifepristone only serve to create unnecessary obstacles for patients

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BELLEVILLE — A 33-year-old woman from Mascoutah was struck and killed by a vehicle early Thursday morning, Aug. 21, 2025, in Belleville, police said. Officers from the Belleville Police Department responded at approximately 3:30 a.m. to a report of a pedestrian struck in the 900 block of South Greenmount Road. Upon arrival, officers and emergency medical personnel found the woman with life-threatening injuries. She was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. The driver involved fled the scene before first responders arrived. Investigators are actively working to identify and locate the suspect vehicle and driver. Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about the suspect vehicle to contact the Belleville Police Department at (618) 234-1212 or submit an anonymous tip to the Crime Stoppers hotline at (866) 371-TIPS (8477).

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GODFREY — Illinois American Water crews began emergency repairs Thursday morning, Aug. 21, 2025, on Tomahawk Lane in Godfrey, prompting a boil water order for residents in the affected area. The repairs, related to fire hydrant maintenance, started at 8:30 a.m. and are expected to last approximately five to six hours. During this time, residents may experience service interruptions or low water pressure, according to Illinois American Water. Officials advised that water used for drinking or cooking should be boiled for five minutes before use. However, water remains safe for bathing, washing, and other common activities. Landlords with water service accounts were urged to notify their tenants about the boil order promptly. Illinois American Water emphasized safety precautions, asking residents not to approach crews during the repair work. The utility will notify residents when the boil water order is lifted. For more information and to view a map of the affected area, resident

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SPRINGFIELD — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) called on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to consider urgent approval of a potentially life-saving treatment for four-year-old Lottie Milburn, a Springfield child diagnosed with Sanfilippo Syndrome — a rare and fatal genetic disorder that affects the brain and spinal cord. In a letter to the agency , Budzinski encouraged the FDA to consider expediting its review of the resubmitted Biologics License Application (BLA) for Ultragenyx’s UX111 gene therapy. The treatment has shown promising results in clinical trials and offers new hope for families affected by Sanfilippo Syndrome. “Historically, BLA reviews can take up to six months — time that many families simply don’t have,” Budzinski wrote. “Acting swiftly to approve UX111 could save the lives of thousands of children who are running out of time.” She continued, “As such, I encourage the FDA to review the

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JACKSONVILLE — State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) is pleased to announce the third winning entry in his 100th District Photo Contest. The winning photograph, captured by Kathy Caruthers of Waverly, will be proudly displayed in Rep. Davidsmeyer’s Springfield office at the Illinois State Capitol. The contest invited residents from across the 100th District to submit photographs reflecting the character and charm of the region. Submissions included images of local landmarks, scenic views, and moments of vibrant community life — all showcasing the district’s diverse beauty. Caruthers’ winning photo features a row of grain bins set against a backdrop of heavy clouds, capturing a familiar and timeless scene in rural Illinois. The image highlights the importance of agriculture in the region and reflects the quiet strength of the 100th District’s farming communities. It reflects the agricultural heart of the 100th District and the resilience

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HARDIN - The Calhoun County Fair promises a fun weekend of carnivals, pageants, tractor pulls and more fun, all with the goal of benefiting the Calhoun County community. Patrick Simon, president of the Calhoun County Fair Association, noted that the fair is a chance to bring families together and celebrate the county. He expressed his excitement to share the family-friendly fair atmosphere with residents of Calhoun County and beyond. “The Calhoun County Fair is the classic Midwestern American fair,” Simon said. “I feel like the county of 5,000 people grows to 10 or 15,000 when you get all of those people together. It is the classic Americana fair. Our motto at the Fair Association is to provide safe, affordable family fun, and that’s what we’ve really tried to do this year.” The fair kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, with a talent show at 7 p.m. and a 7:30 p.m. concert featuring Nashville headliner Jake Maurer and an opening performance

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SOUTH HOLLAND – Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB), and local elected officials for a ceremonial groundbreaking at South Suburban College (SSC). The college’s new Allied Health & Nursing Center will expand the college’s capacity to train healthcare professionals, directly benefitting Illinois students and the surrounding communities. “As the demand for quality healthcare only continues to grow, it is absolutely vital that we invest in the next generation of care professionals,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “From the brand-new state-of-the-art classrooms to the advanced simulation labs, SSC’s Allied Health & Nursing Center is a shining example of our vision for Illinois community colleges as engines of economic and educational opportunity. Future graduates will make up the next wave of skilled nurses, medical technicians, and allied health specialists that can help fill healthcare needs up and down

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CHICAGO – As part of the continued push to meet residents where they are and have services fit into their busy schedules, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has partnered with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) to re-establish new vehicle emissions testing locations for residents within the City of Chicago. “For too long, Chicagoans have been forced to travel long distances for routine vehicle emissions testing, which needs to happen every two years. Working with the IEPA, we have developed a modern and convenient alternative within the City of Chicago,” Giannoulias said. “Bringing services to people where they need them, reducing the hassle and sparing a trip to the suburbs will go a long way toward improving the lives of Chicago area drivers and vehicle owners.” “Mobile Test Units (MTUs) provide a convenient option for motorists to get their vehicle tested,” said Illinois EPA Acting Director James Jennings.

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EDWARDSVILLE – An approximately $700,000 improvement project is set to begin Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, to replace and upgrade the water main on Cass Avenue between North Kansas and North Buchanan streets. The project will include the installation of an 8-inch water main, replacing an older and smaller series of mains that now serve this area. This portion of Cass Avenue also will be resurfaced and new hydrants will be installed. The replacement project will bring improved long-term reliability and water flow in this area. Local traffic access is expected to be maintained during construction; however, some delays and access limitations are likely in the immediate area where workers are present. Weather permitting, this work is expected to wrap up before November. As part of the project, water service lines will be moved to the new water main. While the transfers are being made from each water service line, water customers can expect a temporary service disruption and will need

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GRAFTON - QEM Fire Protection District will host a blood drive to benefit the community. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, community members can stop by QEM Fire Protection District at 14905 Elsah Road in Grafton to donate blood. ImpactLife will run the drive, while the firefighters will be happy to answer questions, show off their firetrucks, and share their facility with the public. “The nation is low on blood,” said firefighter Cameron Mank. “We had a space to use, so we’ll utilize it to give an opportunity to help a little bit more.” Anybody who donates blood that day will be entered into a drawing for the chance to win two tickets to Guns ‘N Hoses. This event, scheduled for November in St. Louis, supports The BackStoppers through boxing matches between police officers and firefighters. You can click here to schedule an appointment to give blood, or walk-ins are also welcome. For more information about the QEM

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COLLINSVILLE — After a three-year pause, the Collinsville Police Department is restarting its Citizen Police Academy to foster better understanding and cooperation between law enforcement and the community. The program, designed to educate residents about the criminal justice system and everyday police work, will run for eight weeks beginning Sept. 23, 2025. Sessions will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and led by Sergeant Josh Hunt and Sergeant Jay Edwards. “The goal of our Citizens’ Police Academy is to promote understanding between our police officers and the residents we serve regarding their respective needs and problems,” the department said in a statement. “By promoting this relationship, the hope is that our residents and police can work together to make the entire community a safer place to live.” The academy offers a hands-on approach, allowing participants to observe and learn about various aspects of law enforcement.

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EDWARDVILLE - During the regular meeting of the Madison County Board on Aug. 20, 2025, the Board voted to send two solar projects back to the Zoning Committee for review. Wolf Road Solar requested a special use permit to develop a commercial solar energy facility in Foster Township on property that is currently zoned as Agricultural District. Rezy Road Solar also requested a special use permit to develop a commercial solar energy facility in New Douglas on property that is currently zoned as Agricultural District. During the public comments portion of their meeting, the Board heard from multiple people who advocated for and against the projects. Reuben Grandon represents the development company GreenKey Solar, which is behind the solar facilities. He asked the county to “not move the goalposts at this point in the process,” emphasizing that the projects have fulfilled all the requirements set by the county. Julie Hamilton, a homeowner, owns land that adjoins the

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Did you know that nearly 75% of readers say they are more motivated to finish a book when they are part of a book club? This statistic highlights an often overlooked but powerful dynamic of reading: the social element. Beyond the solitary act of reading, joining a local book club offers a rich blend of intellectual stimulation, social connection, and personal growth. For those looking to deepen their relationship with books and community, a local book club can be a transformative experience. Intellectual Enrichment Through Shared Perspectives One of the most compelling advantages of joining a local book club is the opportunity to engage with diverse viewpoints. Reading a book alone often limits interpretation to one’s personal framework. However, a book club creates a forum where multiple perspectives converge, challenging members to think critically and expand their understanding. Take, for example, a novel like To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. While many readers may

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August 21 stands out as a remarkable day in history, marking several significant events across different arenas. Let's take a journey through history on this day, exploring the major events that have left an enduring impact across the globe. 1968 – The Prague Spring Comes to an End On August 21, 1968, the Soviet Union and its Warsaw Pact allies launched a massive military invasion of Czechoslovakia to crush the reformist movement known as the Prague Spring. This period of political liberalization and mass protest had sought to create 'socialism with a human face' by introducing reforms like freedom of speech, press, and movement. The invasion abruptly ended these hopes, reinstating strict communist control and triggering widespread international condemnation. The event illustrated the tensions of the Cold War era and the limits of Soviet tolerance for deviation within its sphere of influence. The suppression of the Prague Spring remains a poignant reminder of the struggle

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COLLINSVILLE — The Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Board of Education approved Griffin Crask-Weeks, a Collinsville High School senior, to serve as the student representative on the school board during its most recent meeting. Crask-Weeks previously participated as a student member of the district’s strategic planning committee earlier this year. The Collinsville School Board selected Crask-Weeks to represent the student body and provide input on school district decisions. Collinsville School District officials highlighted Crask-Weeks’s experience and readiness to contribute to the board’s work. The appointment reflects the district’s commitment to including student perspectives in governance. Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 serves the city of Collinsville and surrounding areas, focusing on initiatives under the themes of envisioning, empowering, and achieving.

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Today's Weather: High 79°F, low 62°F. Mostly sunny and beautiful with a gentle breeze from the north-northeast at 7 mph, gusting up to 17 mph. The day feels very warm with plenty of sunshine and low chances of rain. Overnight is expected to be partly cloudy, with lows around 62°F and light winds from the northeast. Allergy indexes are low for grass, mold, ragweed, and tree pollen. The air quality is good, and the UV index is very high, so be sure to protect yourself if you’re spending time outdoors. Tomorrow’s Outlook: High 82°F, low 63°F. The day will be partly sunny and humid with light northerly winds at 6 mph. Overnight will be mostly clear with lows near 63°F and calm conditions. For more weather details, visit riverbender.com/weather .

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EDWARDSVILLE — A Madison County jury on Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, found Stanford Stokes, 44, of St. Louis, guilty of first-degree murder in the fatal shooting of Jarred Hayes, 32, at a residence on Seventh Street in Alton on Nov. 7, 2023. The jury also convicted Stokes of home invasion and possession of a stolen firearm. The verdict followed a trial that began Monday and was presided over by Associate Judge Neil Schroeder. Prosecutors presented evidence and testimony showing that Stokes forced his way into the Alton home after hearing his former girlfriend inside with Hayes. According to Assistant State’s Attorneys Audrey Paulda and Luke Yager, Stokes became angry and targeted Hayes. In her opening statement, Paulda told jurors, “Stokes became angry, and he took that anger out on Jarred Hayes.” Stokes testified that he fired in self-defense after seeing a gun in Hayes’ possession, claiming he grabbed a firearm from his former girlfriend’s purse.

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EDWARDSVILLE — After approximately five hours of deliberation, a jury found Stanford Stokes guilty on all charges related to the shooting death of Jarred O. Hayes. The incident occurred at 9:16 p.m. on Nov. 7, 2023, in the 900 block of East 7th Street in Alton. Stokes was convicted of first-degree murder, home invasion, and unlawful possession of a firearm. First-degree murder is punishable by 20 to 60 years in prison. The jury made a finding that Stokes personally discharged a firearm during the commission of first-degree murder, meaning he is eligible for an enhanced sentence: an additional 25 years to life in prison. Sentencing for Stokes has not yet been scheduled.

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CARROLLTON - Mitigation projects and activities that can reduce injuries and fatalities while maintaining vital services for Greene County residents will be the main topic of discussion at the Greene County Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee meeting at the Greene County Health Department, 310 5th Street in Carrollton, at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 3. The Committee began work last year to update the County’s Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan. This Plan details the past severe weather events that have impacted the County and identifies mitigation projects and activities that can be taken before a severe weather event occurs to protect residents and critical services and infrastructure. “Obtaining FEMA’s approval of our updated Plan will make all of the participants eligible to receive federal grant money for mitigation projects and activities,” explained Greene County Emergency Services and Disaster Agency Coordinator, Cale Hoesman. Projects identified

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