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BELLEVILLE — Tynika McKinzie was taken into custody on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, by Belleville detectives for outstanding felony warrants related to a shooting incident at a McDonald’s restaurant on July 16, 2025, the Belleville Police Department said on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. McKinzie was booked at the Belleville Police Department and later transported to the St. Clair County Jail pending further court proceedings. The incident that involved McKinzie unfolded at approximately 4:45 p.m. on July 16 at the McDonald’s located at 125 South Belt East in Belleville. Police responded to a disturbance call and were informed that an employee had discharged a firearm inside the restaurant. According to police reports, the altercation began when Kathy M. Bledsoe, 44, the manager on duty, instructed a juvenile employee to take out the trash. After the employee refused, police said Bledsoe told her to clock out and go home. The situation escalated, resulting in a shooting

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EDWARDSVILLE - The work of these three featured artists - Rachel Newell, Venus Cramer, and Darren Miller - will have their work showcased at the Edwardsville Arts Fair set for Sept. 26-28, 2025, at Edwardsville City Park. Artist #1: Artist Name: Rachel Newell Medium: Mixed Media Artist Statement: "My work is colorful, surreal, and sometimes absurd. When creating, I hope to give life to unique, dreamlike worlds by combining hundreds of various pieces into something that feels whole. "My work is often described as 'busy,' but it’s a direct reflection of how I feel, think, and experience the world. My intention is for my work to resonate with others — and hopefully bring some joy, wonder, and laughter to those who see it." Artist #2: Venus Cramer Medium: Jewelry Artist Statement: "My primary style of creating contemporary jewelry is fabrication. I use traditional materials such as silver, gold, and gemstones, as well as non-traditional mediums

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ALTON - Alton Police were called to the 300 block of East Ninth Street in Alton on Tuesday morning, July 22, 2025, after a report that a man had punctured his chest with an unknown object, according to an initial investigation. Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford said witnesses at the scene confirmed that the man caused the injury to himself. "The male refused medical treatment and was ultimately transported to Gateway Regional Hospital for mental health care," Chief Ford added. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org .

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ILLINOIS – Today, grid operator PJM announced results in its capacity auction that threaten to send electricity rates soaring for consumers in the ComEd region in Illinois. The overall cost of capacity, which PJM procures to ensure adequate resources to meet energy needs, jumped from $269.92 to $329.17. The Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition released the following statement: “The results of PJM’s capacity market auction are sobering, particularly when Illinois ratepayers are already facing skyrocketing energy bills. As Big Tech’s energy-hungry data centers sap up more and more power and President Trump’s Big Bill rolls back clean energy tax incentives that could save families hundreds, it is clear we need immediate action to protect Illinois consumers. While grid operators like PJM and MISO are slow to connect cost-effective clean energy to the grid and help meet growing demand, the Trump Administration is moving fast to bail out the fossil fuel industry at

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ALTON – Early last year, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released the 2024 National Diabetes Statistics Report. This report estimated that, as of 2021, more than 38.4 million people of all ages – or 11.6% of the U.S. population – had diabetes. With this number expected to continue climbing, the role of nurse-delivered diabetes education will become even more important for patient’s long-term success. OSF Medical Group – Diabetes and Endocrinology (Alton) is introducing its diabetes education program, led by Jennifer Adcock, RN, BSN, CDCES (certified diabetes care & education specialist). Jennifer has been an OSF Mission Partner (i.e. employee) for the last nine (9) years and worked in the OSF Medical Group - Diabetes and Endocrinology office since 2017. Adcock says how patients living with diabetes can benefit from her diabetes education program is through her personalized approach. “Diabetes education is not one-size-fits-all.

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Did you know that nearly 20% of butterfly species worldwide are currently at risk of extinction? As pollinators, butterflies play a critical role in maintaining the health of ecosystems, yet their populations are declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Creating a butterfly garden in your backyard is a meaningful way to support these delicate creatures while adding natural beauty and biodiversity to your home environment. Choosing the Right Location and Layout Selecting an appropriate site is the first step toward establishing a thriving butterfly garden. Butterflies are cold-blooded and rely heavily on sunlight to regulate their body temperature. Therefore, choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid windy areas, as strong breezes can hinder butterfly activity. Consider the garden’s layout with a mix of nectar-rich flowers, larval host plants, and sheltered resting spots. Grouping plants of the same species together

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July 23rd holds a remarkable place in history, marked by events that have shaped cultures, nations, and the trajectory of human progress. Perhaps the most globally impactful event associated with the era around this date is the Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969. Although the actual lunar landing occurred on July 20th, the days following—including July 23rd—were critical as the astronauts safely returned to Earth, sparking worldwide celebration and a renewed sense of possibility for humanity. This monumental achievement not only demonstrated extraordinary technological prowess but also united people across the globe in awe and inspiration. Turning back the clock, July 23rd, 1829, saw the founding of the London Metropolitan Police Service by then-Home Secretary Sir Robert Peel. This development marked the beginning of modern policing, introducing principles of organized law enforcement aimed at maintaining public order in the rapidly growing urban centers of Britain. The Metropolitan

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At times, people facing rare and aggressive cancer diagnoses may feel like there are no care options. OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute in Peoria, Illinois continues to expand care options for many types of cancers, including gynecologic carcinosarcoma. Gynecologic carcinosarcomas are rare cancerous tumors, mainly impacting the uterus and ovaries, which take on characteristics of epithelial (develops from the cells that cover the ovaries or line the uterus) cancers, as well as sarcomas (develops in bones, cartilage, muscle, fat, blood vessels and more). It’s estimated roughly two out of every 100,000 women will develop these rare tumors each year. OSF has been able to treat patients with this very rare cancer before, but now with additional oncology specialists at OSF Cancer Institute, the teams are able to better serve these patients and offer them clinical trials as well. Uniqueness of gynecologic carcinosarcoma: "One of the things that is unique about it is that it coul

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MADISON AND ST. CLAIR COUNTIES – The Metro East Park and Recreation District (MEPRD) is pleased to announce the launch of its Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) grant cycle, making a total of $6.43 million available to support the development and enhancement of public parks, trails, and recreation facilities in Madison and St. Clair Counties, Illinois. This year’s cycle introduces the new Priority Paths Grant Program , a significant initiative aimed at funding the construction of critical trail connections between the two counties, with the ultimate goal of creating a bi-county loop, uniting the Madison County and St. Clair County trail systems. Available grant opportunities under the FY26 cycle include: Park and Trail Grant Program ($3,000,000) Community Planning Grant Program ($400,000) Event Sponsorship Grant Program ($30,000) Priority Path Grant Program ($3,000,000) Applications open July 9, 2025 , and will be accepted on a rolling basis through May 29,

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EDWARDSVILLE - These three artists - Cindy Hose, Dganit Moreno and Robert Asselmeier - will have their art showcased at the upcoming Edwardsville Arts Fair Sept. 26-28. Artist #1: Cindy Hose Medium: Painting Artist Statement: "I begin by meticulously preparing my canvas, ensuring a smooth and receptive surface for the paints to flow upon. Using a combination of paints and pigments I’ve carefully selected for vibrancy and compatibility, along with my own unique pouring medium and cell activator, I manipulate the paints to form intricate cellular patterns and striking contrasts. "As I guide the paints onto the canvas, I become a conductor of color — tilting, turning, applying fire and breaths of air — watching in awe as the colors mingle and marry, creating marbled swirls and organic shapes that seem alive." Artist #2: Dganit Moreno Medium: Textiles Artist Statement: "I use cotton fabric to create architectural imagery. The softness

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Heat Advisory in effect until 7 p.m. Thursday. Today's high will reach a sizzling 95 degrees with a low tonight of 75. The day will be mostly sunny, hot, and humid, making it feel like 110 degrees at times. Winds will be light from the south-southeast with some gusts up to 15 mph. UV levels are very high, so don't forget your sunscreen! Air quality is moderate with low pollen counts for grass, ragweed, and trees, and mold is also low. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the peak heat hours. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning. Tomorrow, expect another hot day with a high near 98 and a low around 76. It will be partly sunny and very humid, with a chance of isolated thunderstorms. The heat will feel dangerous again, with feels-like temperatures soaring above 100 degrees. Be prepared for sudden storms and keep an eye on the sky in the afternoon. For the latest updates, visit https://riverbender.com/weather .

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JERSEYVILLE – Two new restaurants are one step closer to opening in Jerseyville. City Council members on Tuesday unanimously approved requests to rezone the former World Finance and Imo’s Pizza locations. 218 S. State St., the current home of the Jerseyville Domino’s Pizza, and 216 S. State St., the former home of World Finance, will both be rezoned from B-2 to B-3 with intended use as a restaurant. Building and Zoning Director Jeff Soer explained at Tuesday’s meeting that the Domino’s building will be renovated while 216 S. State St. welcomes a new hibachi takeout restaurant – though few details are publicly available. “Where World Finance was, there’s an outfit that wants to put in a hibachi takeout grill,” Soer said, noting there were “no objectors” to the proposal. “We had to take it from B-2, which was offices, into B-3 for restaurants, and then clean up where Domino’s is at.” A representative

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WOOD RIVER — Wood River Police Department, assisted by Metro East S.W.A.T., executed an arrest warrant Tuesday afternoon, July 22, 2025, in the 600 block of Charles Avenue, taking Tyler Taylor into custody without incident. Taylor faces charges of aggravated domestic battery, unlawful restraint, and domestic battery with bodily harm. According to Wood River Police Chief Brad Wells, Taylor allegedly committed domestic battery against his partner, who subsequently filed a police report. “The partner told police Taylor made threats against the police if they showed up. That’s why the tactical team was called,” Wells said. The coordinated effort by local law enforcement ensured the warrant was served safely and without further incident. The investigation remains ongoing.

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COLLINSVILLE – The Collinsville Area Community Foundation (CACF) has announced a donation in recognition of Kahok great, Bogie Redmon. A 1961 graduate of Collinsville High School, George “Bogie” Redmon was an outstanding athlete and local businessman who always supported his beloved Kahoks and community. To many, Bogie was the embodiment of Kahok spirit and pride. The funds, donated in memory of Bogie by his wife, Judie, will support the Kahoks Teaching Kahoks future teachers scholarship, the Diamonds for Kahoks effort to expand the athletic complex at Collinsville High School, and the Collinsville Area Vocational Center (CAVC) endowment fund. Celebrating a Legacy Mrs. Redmon’s generosity on behalf of her late husband embodies Bogie’s deep and enduring commitment to the Collinsville community, Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 (CUSD 10) and Kahok Athletics. As a dedicated alumnus and supporter, Bogie consistently championed projects to enhance

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ALTON — The Alton Police Department announced a new plan on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, to address late-night disturbances in downtown Alton, after Alton Mayor David Goins’ announcement on Monday, July 21, 2025, about the revocation of the late-night liquor licenses for Hiram’s Bar at 314 State St. and Pour Decisions Bar at 2024 State St. The two establishments' late-night liquor licenses, which allow them to serve alcohol from 1- 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, were terminated with immediate effect on Monday. Hiram’s is located at 219 W. Third St. in Alton, and Pour Decisions at 2024 State Street in Alton. Additionally, Firehouse Tavern at 314 State St. and Mac’s at 315 Belle St. voluntarily agreed to close by 1 a.m. Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford expressed support for the mayor’s decision during remarks to Riverbender.com on Tuesday. “I fully support the decision made by Mayor David Goins in his capacity as liquor commissioner to close Hiram's

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WATERLOO — The Monroe County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old female at a residence on State Route 3 in Waterloo, Illinois, on July 21, 2025. At approximately 1:34 p.m. on Monday, July 21, 2025, emergency responders were dispatched to 5925 State Route 3 in Waterloo for a medical emergency involving the juvenile. Monroe County EMS and the first responding deputy arrived within minutes and began life-saving measures, including CPR. The victim, identified as Emma Schultheis of Prairie Du Rocher, was transported to a St. Louis-area hospital, where she was pronounced dead despite continued efforts. Authorities determined that Schultheis died from a gunshot wound. A firearm was recovered and secured at the scene. The Illinois State Police Crime Scene Unit assisted in processing the location. The sheriff’s department confirmed there are no suspects at large and no ongoing threat to the community. Monroe County Sheriff's Office Sergean

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JERSEY - Allen Snyder of Jersey Community Unit School District 100 has been named one of the 2025 Teachers of Distinction by the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools. The announcement was made recently by the association, which recognized Snyder for his innovative approach to teaching. Kerry Lorton, a representative of the association, highlighted Snyder’s use of immersive, project-based learning in his Industrial Orientation classes. “Instructors like Allen Snyder play a transformative role in students’ lives by guiding them through immersive, project-based learning experiences that blend creativity, technical skill, and real-world application,” Lorton said. “In his Industrial Orientation classes, students don’t just sit at desks — they roll up their sleeves and engage directly with tools, machines, and materials, learning through doing in a dynamic workshop environment.” The Association of Illinois Rural and Small

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WATERLOO — Ten-year-old E’lynn Kuhnert was admitted to St. Louis Children’s Hospital on June 29, 2025, after experiencing prolonged seizures that would not stop. Despite several days of heavy sedation and intubation on July 3, 2025, her seizures have persisted. After consulting with her medical team, E’lynn’s family decided to proceed with surgery on July 21, 2025. The operation aims to gain better control over her epilepsy, a condition she has lived with since age 3, though it is not expected to completely cure her seizures. The family said it hopes the procedure will improve her quality of life. E’lynn’s epilepsy has no known cause, but her family describes her as a source of light and joy to those around her. Last school year, her personal goals were “to be a good helper and a great friend,” reflecting her sweet spirit and loving nature. To support E’lynn’s medical expenses, therapy costs, post-operative care,

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CARLINVILLE – Amateur radio operators from across Illinois and neighboring states will be heading to Carlinville on Saturday, August 2 for the annual West Central Illinois Hamfest, an indoor and outdoor event that includes a flea market, forums and more at the Macoupin County Fairgrounds off Route 4. The event opens at 7 a.m., rain or shine and runs until noon. Jointly sponsored by the West Central Illinois Hamfest Consortium composed of the Macoupin County Amateur Radio Club, the Springfield-based Sangamon Valley Radio Club, the Okaw Valley Radio Club in Greenville and the Hillsboro-based Montgomery County Amateur Radio Emergency Corps, the annual event draws not only federally-licensed amateur radio operators (also known as “hams”), but also the general public. This year, Hamfest-goers can attend seminars focusing on technical aspects of the hobby, wander through the indoor and outdoor flea markets, chat with amateur radio operators, and hear Illinois Section Manage

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SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Governor JB Pritzker once again waded into national politics Tuesday when he discussed a possible mid-decade redistricting of congressional maps to counteract Texas and other Republican states. Gov. Pritzker stated: “We have to see what they decide to do about Texas… I think we ought to play by the rules,” but acknowledged “counterbalance” might be necessary. “I think cheating the way the president wants to is improper. We all ought to stand up against it. People ought to be outraged.” Assistant Republican Leader C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) slammed Gov. Pritzker’s double-talk on redistricting and his previous flip-flop on fair maps. “What people ought to be outraged about is JB Pritzker’s flip flop on fair maps,” Davidsmeyer said. “As a candidate for governor, Pritzker said he was for an independent map and vowed to veto any map drawn by politicians. Then as governor,

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