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EAST ST. LOUIS — Officer Elementary School in East St. Louis School District 189 recently celebrated its first year as a community school with a Back2School Block Party. The event was aimed to showcase school pride, strengthen community connections, and honor families within the district. Families and staff gathered at Officer Elementary to participate in a variety of activities, including games, bounce houses, face painting, bubble machines, and a foam party. Attendees also enjoyed food provided during the festivities. More than 30 vendors contributed to the event, which drew enthusiastic participation from school families and staff alike. East St. Louis School District officials expressed gratitude to the staff, families, volunteers, and community partners who helped organize and support the celebration. The Back2School Block Party marked a milestone for Officer Elementary as it continues to build community engagement and foster a supportive environment for students

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SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin will visit Scott Air Force Base on Friday, Sept. 5, to launch a nationwide program aimed at distributing excess food to reduce waste. The event will take place at 11:30 a.m. in the Base Commissary parking lot. The program represents a collaboration between the EPA and Frey Farms of Illinois, which will provide a truckload of excess watermelon, sweet corn, and watermelon juice to members of the base. The initiative is part of the EPA’s broader effort to address food waste across the country.

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TROY — Troy Police conducted an impaired driving enforcement effort over the Labor Day weekend, resulting in 51 traffic stops, the department announced Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025. The enforcement campaign, which took place throughout the holiday weekend, led to the issuance of 26 seat-belt citations, including four during nighttime hours. Additional citations and arrests included one arrest of a suspended driver, seven distracted driving citations, six speeding citations, and 10 other citations. “Through the Labor Day safety campaign, we helped make our roads safer and spread the word about the risks of impaired driving — ‘It’s Not a Game,’” Troy Police said in a statement. The effort was part of the statewide initiatives “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “Drive High Get a DUI,” and “Click It or Ticket,” funded by federal highway safety funds administered through the Illinois Department of Transportation.

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HIGHLAND - Highland Fire Department has named firefighter/engineer Ron Staroscsak as the recipient of the 2025 Albert’s Diamond Jewelers Hero Award. Staroscsak was recognized for his leadership and dedication during the department’s recent five-year fire insurance ISO audit. The ISO (Insurance Services Office) rating evaluates a fire department’s ability to respond to fires by assessing training, equipment, and water supply. Maintaining a high ISO rating is crucial as it helps keep insurance premiums lower for both the fire department and the local business community. “His commitment and leadership to the five-year fire insurance ISO audit are invaluable to the fire department and business community we serve,” the Highland Fire Department said in a statement. High ISO ratings are considered a direct reflection of a fire department’s commitment to safety and operational performance. The department’s achievement in this area benefits

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ALTON – Three men from Missouri face felony charges after allegedly teaming up to threaten Alton residents while displaying a firearm and an “air rifle.” Mikevion D. Thompson, 24 , Kayone E. Thompson, 18 , and Jaden L. Davis, 18 , each of Wentzville, Mo., were charged on Aug. 29, 2025 with Class 4 felony counts of mob action. All three individuals allegedly acted together in approaching a residence in the 400 block of Thumper Court in Alton , threaten ing the occupants, and displaying firearms in a threatening manner on Aug. 7, 2025. Charging documents state e ach individual was “thereby part of a group engaged in physical aggression reasonably capable of inspiring fear of injury or harm.” Kayone was additionally charged with two Class 4 felony counts of aggravated unlawful possession of weapons. H e was reportedly in illegal possession of a semi-automatic handgun as a person under 21 years of

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SPRINGFIELD, IL – A remarkable journey has brought a 10-month-old Labrador mix named Ghost to Mobile Training Unit (MTU) 7, where he will serve as a dedicated therapy K9 providing critical emotional support and a calming presence for law enforcement officers across Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, Peoria, Putnam, Stark, Tazewell and Woodford counties. Ghost's story began in December 2024 when he was found abandoned in Cicero, Illinois, at just two and a half months old, along with his brother. Despite efforts by local animal control, he went unclaimed. His path soon led to a transformative opportunity through the Cook County Sheriff's Office Tails of Redemption program . This life-saving program provides professional dog training through a partnership with incarcerated individuals, giving both dogs and handlers a second chance. Through rigorous training and maintaining a naturally calming, friendly, and intuitive demeanor, Ghost proved to be the perfect candidate for therapy work.

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WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) released the following statement on President Trump’s recent claims around deploying the National Guard to the City of Chicago. “Every person has the right to feel safe in the community they call home. But deploying the National Guard is not the answer; they are neither trained nor equipped for that role. Not to mention it would be a waste of taxpayer dollars – millions per day. “If the President truly wanted to tackle crime, he would strengthen our local law enforcement by restoring the very funding he himself has cut. Programs like Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Grants exist to keep neighborhoods safe, yet this administration has stripped them away. At the same time, the Big, Ugly Bill cuts critical support like SNAP and Medicaid, which only fuels greater instability. “Ultimately, the President’s weaponization of the federal government, especially with

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GODFREY, Ill. — Mayor Michael J. McCormick vetoed Ordinance #27-2025, passed during the village board meeting Tuesday night, Sept. 2, 2025, citing concerns about overtaxing residents of Godfrey. In a letter to the Village Trustees, McCormick referenced Illinois statutes 65 ILCS 5/6-4-2 and 65 ILCS 5/3.1-40-35 as the basis for his veto. He emphasized his conservative approach to taxation, stating, “I cannot support something like this” that would impose a 1 percent grocery tax on residents. The ordinance sought to implement a 1 percent tax on groceries, a measure that some communities in the area have been extending. However, McCormick noted that Godfrey previously raised sales taxes on other items instead of groceries, aiming for a fair balance. He expressed confidence that eliminating the grocery tax would not harm village services, as the other sales tax increase would compensate for the lost revenue. “This is the first time I have ever vetoed anything,”

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HARDIN - On August 9, 2025, at approximately 5:38 p.m., the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office responded to a disturbance reported in the 3100 block of Blue Ridge Road in Hardin. Deputies arrived promptly at the residence to investigate and conduct interviews. Following the investigation, Micah J. Hamilton, 44, of Batchtown, was arrested on multiple charges, including home invasion causing injury, domestic battery causing bodily harm, domestic battery involving physical contact, and two counts of criminal damage to property. Hamilton was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Greene County Jail. Authorities have not released further details regarding the incident. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty.

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ALTON - Calvary Baptist Church and Calvary Christian School are eager for a season of new events and activities. Wade Dobson and Mike Harrelson expressed their excitement for the “fall kickoff” this weekend with their “Home at Calvary” events on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025. The church plans to resume many of their services and groups this week. Additionally, Calvary Christian School is continuing to grow, and they can’t wait to share their mission. “We’re just really looking forward to kind of kicking back in gear after Labor Day and the official end of summer,” Dobson said. “We’re just very excited with everything that's happening with the school. We just look forward to continuing to grow that.” The fun begins on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, with Calvary’s monthly men’s breakfast. For $5, men are invited to enjoy breakfast, conversation and testimonies at 8 a.m. on the first Saturday of every month at

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CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker hosted a press conference with Mayor Brandon Johnson, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Attorney General Kwame Raoul, and Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton to inform the public about Trump’s imminent plans for immigration enforcement and national guard deployments in Chicago and the surrounding region. “None of this is about fighting crime or making Chicago safer. For Trump, it’s about testing his power and producing a political drama to cover up his corruption,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We are ready to fight troop deployments in court and we will do everything possible to ensure that agents operating inside the confines of this state do so in a legal and ethical manner.” During the press conference, Governor Pritzker emphasized four key pieces of information: ? ? Trump is currently positioning armed federal agents on federal property in the Chicago region; ? Trump will send unidentified

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Did you know that incorporating just a few seasonal fruits and vegetables into your diet can significantly improve nutrient intake and support your immune system? Eating foods at their peak not only enhances flavor but also maximizes the health benefits they offer. Autumn, often overlooked as a season for fresh produce, actually presents a unique array of nutrient-dense foods that can bolster well-being in profound ways. Nutritional Powerhouses of Autumn Autumn’s harvest is rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables that are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets are high in fiber and beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. This nutrient is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function. Pumpkins and squashes, iconic to the season, provide an abundance of vitamin C and potassium. Vitamin C supports immune defense and collagen production, while potassium helps regulate blood pressure

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September 3rd holds a significant place in world history, marked by events that shaped nations, cultures, and the course of global affairs. Looking back, September 3rd, 1783, was pivotal for the United States as the Treaty of Paris was signed, officially ending the American Revolutionary War. This treaty recognized American independence from Great Britain and set the boundaries for the new nation. The successful conclusion of the war and the treaty's signing empowered the fledgling United States to embark on its journey as an independent country, shaping the democratic ideals that would influence many other nations in the centuries to follow. In the realm of exploration, September 3rd, 1522, is remembered as the day when the remnants of Ferdinand Magellan's expedition returned to Spain, completing the first circumnavigation of the Earth. Though Magellan himself did not survive the entire journey, this monumental achievement proved that the globe could be circumnavigated by sea, expanding

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JERSEYVILLE – After more than two decades, Jerseyville will soon have a new Chief of Police. City Council members on Tuesday unanimously approved the appointment of Danny Green as the next Chief of the Jerseyville Police Department. Green, who currently serves as a sergeant within the department, will replace current Chief Brad Blackorby, who has been Jerseyville Police Chief since 2004. Green’s appointment officially takes effect on Oct. 1, 2025. Mayor Kevin Stork said Blackorby informed him months ago of his plans to retire from the department. The mayor then formed a committee to find qualified candidates to be the city’s next Chief of Police. After interviewing six internal candidates, all of which the mayor said were “absolutely amazing,” the committee unanimously selected Green to be the next Jerseyville Police Chief. “We are excited to appoint Danny Green as our new Chief of Police,” said Mayor Kevin Stork. “His proven leadership,

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EAST ALTON – Illinois RiverWatch invites members of the public to join volunteers, partners and supporters in celebrating their 30th anniversary at Kankakee River State Park from 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 20. The Celebration’s exhibitors will include the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Environmental Education Association of Illinois and many more. There will be a silent auction, featuring barred owl boxes, photography and passes to The Morton Arboretum, as well as several nature and family-oriented activities. Illinois RiverWatch is a statewide community science program that trains volunteers to collect water-quality data on their local streams and educate the community to be good stewards of Illinois rivers. Originally started in 1995, RiverWatch volunteers have been collecting data for 30 years. This event will celebrate those volunteers who have worked with the program for decades. RiverWatch Director and Stream Ecologist

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GODFREY — On Saturday and Sunday, September 6 and 7, up to 1,000 cyclists will gather for Bike MS: Gateway Getaway, hosted at Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey, Illinois. This premier cycling event, organized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, raises critical funds and awareness to drive progress in MS research, improve treatment options, and work toward a cure for the nearly 1 million people living with multiple sclerosis in the United States. The 2025 ride is expected to raise more than $1.3 million to support the Society’s mission. With scenic routes and a lively event atmosphere, the Bike MS: Gateway Getaway welcomes riders of all skill levels. Friends, family members, coworkers, and community supporters come together for a meaningful and impactful weekend. Cyclists can choose from 25, 50, 75, or 100 mile routes, available on both Saturday and Sunday. Start times begin at7:00 a.m. each day. Riders will experience the beauty of the Great River Road

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ALTON — After a decade of devoted service, Tom Morrissey is stepping down as Chairperson of the Board of Directors for Challenge Unlimited, Inc. (CU). Morrissey, who retired after 23 years in BJC HealthCare’s Revenue Cycle Management Department, joined CU’s board in 2015 and was elected Chair in 2018. Throughout his tenure, he provided leadership to the board during a period of significant organizational growth. During these years, Challenge Unlimited expanded its operations into eight states, strengthening its ability to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities nationwide. Challenge Unlimited proudly recognizes Morrissey for his commitment and dedication. His contributions as Chair have been instrumental in strengthening CU’s mission of providing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and supporting inclusive workplaces. “It has been an incredible honor and privilege to serve in this capacity,” said Morrissey. “I

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WOOD RIVER — Jersey High School’s boys soccer team is off to a strong start in the 2025 season, securing three consecutive wins without a loss. The Panthers claimed the championship at the East Alton-Wood River Invite on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, by defeating Southwestern 3-2 in a match decided by a shootout. Jersey opened the tournament with decisive victories over Roxana, 10-2, and Valmeyer, 9-0. In the final against Southwestern, the Panthers rallied in the last two minutes to tie the game before prevailing in the shootout. The Panthers have been recognized as the Sparklight Male Athletes of the Month for their performance. Key contributors for Jersey include Bradley Tueth, who leads the team with an average of 2.3 goals per match and one assist, totaling seven goals so far this season. Cooper Wilson and Justice Drainer each average one goal per game, with two goals apiece. Sophomore Colby Goetten recorded two points in the final against Southwestern, while Drainer

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ALTON — After a decade of devoted service, Tom Morrissey is stepping down as Chairperson of the Board of Directors for Challenge Unlimited, Inc. (CU). Morrissey, who retired after 23 years in BJC HealthCare’s Revenue Cycle Management Department, joined CU’s board in 2015 and was elected Chair in 2018. Throughout his tenure, he provided leadership to the board during a period of significant organizational growth. During these years, Challenge Unlimited expanded its operations into eight states, strengthening its ability to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities nationwide. Challenge Unlimited proudly recognizes Morrissey for his commitment and dedication. His contributions as Chair have been instrumental in strengthening CU’s mission of providing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and supporting inclusive workplaces. “It has been an incredible honor and privilege to serve in this capacity,” said Morrissey. “I

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WOOD RIVER — Southwestern’s boys soccer team finished second at the Wood River Invite on Saturday after a 3-2 loss to Jersey in the championship match. The Piasa Birds open the season with a 2-1 overall mark and are expected to have a strong campaign in 2025. The tournament kicked off with Southwestern overwhelming host Wood River 10-1, followed by a 3-1 victory over Carlyle. Despite these strong performances, Southwestern was edged out by Jersey. The Piasa Birds soccer boys are Altonized Male Athletes of the Month. Key players for Southwestern include Bram Beuttel, who has averaged three goals per match and has scored six goals this season; Eben Makler, with a two-goal average; and Chase Kallal, who averages 1.5 goals per match with three goals this season. Goalkeeper Cole Tungett has contributed 11 saves so far this year. Southwestern’s upcoming schedule features a game against Wood River at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday at EAWR, followed by an away match at Jersey on

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