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SPRINGFIELD – State Treasurer Michael Frerichs has announced the winning photographers for the 2025 Cream of the Crop Photography Contest , which provides Illinois students with a creative opportunity to share their vision of agriculture in our state. The top nine photographers, ages 8 to 18, will be awarded Bright Start 529 college savings scholarships. “Congratulations to the young photographers who have showcased their talents and creativity in the Cream of the Crop competition this year,” Frerichs said. “Their photos illustrate the beauty and diversity of agriculture in Illinois.” The winning photographs will be displayed August 7-17 at the Illinois State Fair in the Treasurer’s Tent. You can see the photos of the top three finishers in each of the three age categories on the State Treasurer’s website . Winning entries and other photo submissions will be featured in the 2025-2026 Ag Invest calendar, which you can order here , and the

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EAST ALTON — Some East Alton fast-food restaurants closed early on Monday, July 28, 2025, after receiving what East Alton Police Chief Scott Golike described as prank phone calls containing vague threats. Taco Bell, Sonic and McDonald’s in East Alton decided to shut down their businesses early as a precautionary measure. Chief Golike said the calls appeared to come from the same individual and contained “the same vague threat,” which raised concern among management. “It was a little alarming to managers,” Golike said. “It sounded like the same caller with the same vague threat.” Golike noted that the calls seemed to be isolated to the affected businesses and that Alton Police were not receiving similar calls at their locations. Authorities are continuing to research the matter but have not found any indication of an actual threat. Golike emphasized that the early closures were a collective decision made out of caution. The East Alton

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BRUSSELS — A 43-year-old woman was arrested on June 24, 2025, after a deputy sheriff conducted a citizen contact at a General Store on Main Street in Brussels, Calhoun County The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office reported that Tammy E. Bailey of Hardin, Illinois, was taken into custody at 4:25 p.m. Bailey faces charges of violating the sex offender registry and has an outstanding Calhoun County felony warrant. Authorities said Bailey was arrested without incident and transported to the Greene County Jail. The investigation remains ongoing. Officials reminded the public that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Board approved funding totaling $40 million for the development of four non-congregate shelters that will create 194 units with 422 beds for persons experiencing homelessness. These non-congregate facilities will provide private rooms for individuals and families to reside and will not require occupants to sign a lease or occupancy agreement, while also offering necessary support services to help them during their housing transition. “Here in Illinois, we understand that ending the homelessness crisis requires a multifaceted and equitable approach, and that begins with meaningful investments to improve our housing infrastructure,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “These four new shelters, which are repurposed from unoccupied properties, will offer a unique private housing support option for over 400 people. I’m thankful to the team at IHDA for their ongoing efforts to destigmatize homelessness and improv

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SPRINGFIELD – Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) released the following statement following an announcement from the Department of Education that it would begin releasing nearly $5.5 billion in Congressionally-approved funds illegally withheld from states. The restored funding comes after pressure from Budzinski and her House Democratic colleagues. “After we turned up the pressure, I’m glad to see the Trump administration do the right thing and release the education funds they have been illegally withholding from our communities,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “While this announcement is a relief for our school districts – especially as the new school year rapidly approaches – the funding never should have been delayed. Central and Southern Illinoisans deserve a government that keeps its word, and I’ll continue to hold this administration accountable to ensure these critical dollars are delivered to our district.” Earlier

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EAST ST. LOUIS – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that bridge deck patching will take place on eastbound Interstate 64 between 15th Street and 25th Street in St. Clair County beginning, weather permitting, at 9 p.m., Friday, Aug. 1, 2025. During that time, traffic will be reduced to one lane. All lanes are expected to reopen by 6 a.m. Monday, Aug. 4. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes during this closure. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on www.GettingAroundIllinois.com .

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HARDIN — Today, Jennifer Wooldridge, State Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Coordinator and Deputy Director of Operations for the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board, issued the following statement on the life-saving impact of CIT training in law enforcement, as demonstrated recently by Sheriff William Heffington and Chief Deputy Zach Hardin of the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office: "On May 5, 2025, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office was alerted to a severe disturbance near the intersection of Park Street and Main Street in Hardin. Authorities were told an individual intimidated another individual with an axe before fleeing the scene. "Within minutes, at about 3:37 p.m., Chief Deputy Zach Hardin located the individual, parked along Illinois River Road, still armed with a large axe. Sheriff William Heffington arrived to assist in what quickly escalated into a critical and complex situation. As school had just let out, a bus full of childre

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EDWARDSVILLE - During their regular meeting on July 28, 2025, the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education discussed the 2023 Bond and three potential projects that could be completed using the money. Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton explained that there are three Phase 2 projects, and he wanted the Board to discuss these projects and let him know what information they needed to make a decision on which project to move forward with. He said the top priorities are updating certain playgrounds, followed by the gyms in Hamel and Columbus Elementary Schools, and then the Edwardsville High School Media Center. “There seems to be a super need for Hamel. We have asbestos,” said Board member Matt Breihan. “I go back to the Bond promises that were promised, and I realize you can’t tell the future and I realize you can’t tell where rates go and what happens. But the promises were made that we have enough money for all projects that

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JACKSONVILLE, Ill. – Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed another unconstitutional gun restriction into law this week. On Monday, Gov. Pritzker signed the so-called “Safe Gun Storage Act” into law. Senate Bill 8 imposes new mandates requiring gun owners to store firearms in locked containers when in the presence of minors, prohibited persons, or “at-risk” individuals. The bill is riddled with conflicting provisions and creates legal uncertainty for hunters, target shooters, and youth shooting clubs. State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) voted NO on Senate Bill 8, citing serious constitutional concerns for the rights of law-abiding gun owners. “Senate Bill 8 is an overreaching and unconstitutional restriction on the Second Amendment rights of responsible Illinois citizens,” Davidsmeyer said. “This law creates excessive and confusing firearm storage mandates, subjects law-abiding gun owners to stiff civil

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SPRINGFIELD - Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) hosted a roundtable discussion focused on improving mail delivery and protecting postal services across Central and Southern Illinois. She convened local union leaders, postal workers, and other community stakeholders to talk about efforts to improve on-time delivery, protect local postal jobs, oppose privatization, and stop harmful facility consolidations that reduce access in rural and underserved areas. “The Postal Service is a lifeline in rural communities, and lagging delivery rates have meant delayed prescriptions, late bills, missed paychecks, and much more,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “It’s unacceptable and the administration should do better. I was glad to bring together leaders on the frontlines of this issue today to talk about how we can push back against postal privatization, improve speed and service, and protect good-paying union jobs at USPS. The Postal Service should be a public good

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EDWARDSVILLE - During their regular meeting on July 28, 2025, the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education unanimously voted down proposed fixes to the Edwardsville High School track. Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton explained that the original project, which was approved by the Board earlier this year, did not address findings related to construction or design. The contractor has since recommended two design/construction changes to the track. The first change is the addition of a 4-inch conduit and two 2.5-inch conduits for timing equipment and potential later additions, valued at $40,000. The second change is a 4-foot perimeter concrete walk on the exterior of the track, valued at $63,000. “We did not include design or construction contingencies in this project,” Shelton said. “We didn’t know there needed to be. But at the same time, we have for all the other projects, so that’s probably something that we should have

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ALTON - You can enter for the chance to win four VIP tickets to the upcoming Puddle of Mudd concert at the Alton Amphitheater. On Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, enjoy music from the chart-topping rock band on the Alton Riverfront. Puddle of Mudd is known for post-grunge hits like “Blurry,” “She Hates Me” and “Psycho,” and frontman Wes Scantlin promises more “deep cuts” from previous albums at the Alton show. Enter using the form below for the chance to win four VIP tickets. “A Saturday evening on the Alton Riverfront with another multi-platinum-selling band like Puddle of Mudd will be a great night for Alton and the region,” said Dan Herkert, Alton Amphitheater Commission Chair. “It has been a few years since we’ve had an alternative rock and roll show at the Alton Amphitheater, and we’re thrilled to bring this genre back to our riverfront.” Puddle of Mudd was signed by Limp Bizkit’s Fred Durst

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Did you know that nearly 80% of the world’s population lives under light-polluted skies, unable to see the Milky Way with the naked eye? This startling fact underscores just how precious truly dark skies have become. For those who crave the awe of celestial wonders, finding the right stargazing location is essential—especially on clear summer nights when the heavens are at their most vibrant. Understanding What Makes a Great Stargazing Spot Not all stargazing locations are created equal. Several factors contribute to the quality of the view and the overall experience: Darkness: Artificial light from cities and towns significantly diminishes the visibility of stars and planets. The darker the sky, the more celestial bodies are visible. Altitude: Higher elevations often have less atmospheric disturbance and clearer air, improving visibility. Weather: Clear skies with low humidity and minimal cloud cover enhance stargazing conditions. Accessibility: While remote

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EDWARDSVILLE — Pianist Sun Hye Chung, violinist Mu-Chi Hsieh, and cellist Marie Brown, all alumni of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, will present a fundraising piano trio concert on Sunday, August 3, 2025, to support victims of the May 16, 2025, tornado in St. Louis. The concert is scheduled for 3 p.m. at Eden Church of Edwardsville. The musicians will perform a selection of well-known pieces composed and arranged by Franz Schubert, John Lutter, David Foster, and Sun Ahn. The program includes the second movement of Schubert’s Piano Trio No. 2, Op. 100; an arrangement of “Amazing Grace”; and J.S. Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1 Prelude, among others. A freewill offering will be collected during the event, with proceeds directed to the official City of St. Louis Tornado Response Fund. The fundraiser aims to provide assistance to those affected by the recent tornado that caused significant damage in the St. Louis area.

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July 29 has always been a day of remarkable milestones across the globe. Back in 1914, the outbreak of World War I began to unfold rapidly. On July 28 of that year, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, setting off a chain reaction of alliances and conflicts that would engulf much of the world in one of the deadliest wars in human history. This moment underscored the fragility of peace and the complexities of international diplomacy. Fast forward to 1945, the Potsdam Conference was underway, where Allied leaders Harry Truman, Joseph Stalin, and Winston Churchill (later replaced by Clement Attlee) negotiated terms for the end of World War II and the postwar order. The decisions made during this conference had profound implications for the geopolitical landscape, influencing the onset of the Cold War and the division of Europe. In the realm of culture, July 29, 1950, saw the birth of significant artistic movements. For instance, the world witnessed the rise of influential literature

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Extreme heat is taking center stage today with a high reaching 97 degrees and a low around 74. The day will be mostly sunny with some spots seeing a stray morning thunder shower. However, the heat feels much hotter, with temperatures feeling as high as 111 degrees. The humidity sticks around, making it feel even warmer. An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect until 7 p.m. tonight. Stay hydrated, avoid the sun when possible, and check on neighbors, especially those who are vulnerable. Allergy-wise, mold is moderate, ragweed and grass are low, and the UV index is very high, so sunscreen is a must. Looking ahead to tomorrow, expect a high of 93 and a low near 72. The weather will be humid with a couple of afternoon thunderstorms. These storms could be heavy with the potential for flash flooding and damaging wind gusts. Plan accordingly if you have outdoor activities. For more detailed forecasts, visit https://riverbender.com/weather .

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O’FALLON, Ill. — Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) St. Elizabeth’s Hospital ceremonially broke ground on the future location of its new outpatient surgery center and medical office building on Monday, July 28. The hospital’s Certificate of Need (CON) received unanimous approval from the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board (HFSRB) in March 2025 for the addition of this important project on the hospital’s campus. “We are excited to be able to bring much-needed, local health care resources to our community,” shared Chris Klay, President and CEO of HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. “The surgical treatment center addresses the growing need for a more convenient and accessible location for minor outpatient surgeries and procedures that can be done on a same-day basis, with no need for an inpatient stay.” The project is a $50 million investment that illustrates HSHS’ and St. Elizabeth’s ongoing

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JERSEYVILLE – A man from Chesterfield has been released from custody after being charged with firing a weapon during an aggravated assault in Jersey County. Lucas A. Brown, 33, of Chesterfield, Ill., was charged on July 21, 2025 with reckless discharge of a firearm and aggravated assault/discharge firearm, both Class 4 felonies. On July 19, 2025, Brown allegedly discharged a firearm in a reckless manner near the victim’s bedroom window, endangering the victim’s bodily safety and causing them to fear for their life, according to charging documents. A Pretrial Release Order was later filed, granting Brown release from custody pending trial. Under the conditions of his release, Brown has been ordered to have no contact or communication with the victim in this case and cannot leave the State of Illinois without court permission. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Fair, in collaboration with the Illinois State Police, is introducing updated security measures to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests. The following items will not be allowed on the Illinois State Fairgrounds and will be confiscated if found: Firearms (concealed carry is prohibited ) Weapons of any kind (including but not limited to knives, pepper spray, stun guns, brass knuckles, batons, bats) Illegal substances Drones or laser pointers Fireworks or flammable materials Grandstand Security Additional measures are being implemented at the Grandstand to maintain a safe environment for event attendees and entertainers. Metal Detectors & Bag Checks New this year are metal detectors and bag checks at all Grandstand entrances. No backpacks, duffle bags or bags/purses larger than 14"x8" are allowed into the Grandstand. Tickets If you purchased mobile tickets, be sure to download the tickets to your Ticketmaster

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EDWARDSVILLE - Join the Edwardsville Municipal Concert Band for an evening of music on Thursday, July 31, at 7:30 PM at the Cleaon Etzkorn Bandstand in City Park. This week’s concert, Color My World, highlights how composers use musical color to paint vivid scenes—from the shimmering hues of Brian Balmages’ Rippling Watercolors to the dramatic contrasts of Clare Grundman’s The Blue and the Gray. Selections will include Palette by Randall Standridge, The Blues! by Sammy Nestico, Black Canyon of the Gunnison by Frank Erickson, and Alfred Reed’s arrangement of The Unsinkable Molly Brown. The program also features patriotic favorites like Sousa’s The Black Horse Troop and a nostalgic nod to Disney with Heigh Ho from Snow White. The band is honored to welcome Maestro Shane Williams as guest conductor for the evening. Williams is the Director of Instrumental Ensembles at Missouri Baptist University and is currently in his 11th season as conductor of the

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