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CHICAGO – Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s (DCEO) Office of Tourism announced that Illinois welcomed 113 million domestic and international visitors who spent a record $48.5 billion in 2024 – an increase of 500,000 visitors and $1.3 billion in spending from 2023, according to data provided by Tourism Economics. This tourism surge also led to a new all-time high in hotel tax revenue figures in FY25, totaling $367 million – a 14% increase over the previous record set in FY24. “Illinois has recorded yet another record-breaking year for tourism, but these are more than numbers: they represent jobs, spending in local economies, and visitors creating lifelong memories in the Middle of Everything,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With something for every type of visitor, tourism represents an important part of Illinois’ economy and I’ve made investing in the industry a key priority

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ALTON — Effective August 26, 2025, the public boat launch ramps at Alton Marina are officially open. As of today, the river level at Alton Marina stands at 417 feet above sea level, providing approximately 8 feet of water within the harbor. According to the latest forecast from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), water levels are expected to remain steady at 417 feet for the next seven days. During this period, the public launch ramps will remain open to all vessels. However, boats with an overall length greater than 30 feet are advised to exercise caution when launching. Please note that conditions are subject to change, particularly with rainfall in the upper river basin. Boaters are encouraged to stay informed by reviewing the most recent USACE forecast data linked below. The marina will continue to closely monitor river levels and provide updates as needed. For the latest information, please visit the Alton Marina Facebook page: The Alton Marina Facebook . For questions,

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MADISON/SAINT LOUIS - The St. Louis Area Foodbank will give away a month’s supply of food and cleaning supplies to 1,000 local families this week. From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025, at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, IL, the first 500 families to drive through the distribution site will receive approximately 80 pounds of food. From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025, at the Allstar parking lot at 611 S. 8th Street, adjacent to Busch Stadium, in St. Louis, another 500 families will be served. There are no income requirements to receive food and supplies. CEO Meredith Knopp explained that these giveaways are part of the foodbank’s 50th anniversary celebrations. “We just want to make sure that we are serving and supporting families across the bistate region,” Knopp said. “It’s a little bit of everything to make everyone’s lives just a little bit easier this month.” Knopp said that in addition to

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GILLESPIE — Peyton R. Pehrson, 26, of Benld, was charged on Aug. 18, 2025, with resisting a police officer following an incident two days earlier. According to authorities, on August 16, Pehrson knowingly resisted a Gillespie police officer by pulling away as he was being detained. The circumstances leading to the detention were not disclosed. Pehrson’s case remains pending. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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ST. CLAIR COUNTY - St. Clair County authorities have identified Harold Schaedler, 49, as the man struck and killed by a vehicle over the weekend, on Illinois Route 157, just south of Foley Drive in Cahokia Heights. Schaedler, of Belleville, was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:05 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025, the St. Clair County Coroner's Office said. Cahokia Heights Police responded to a report of a man lying in the roadway at 10:50 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24, 2025. Schaedler was discovered by officers with severe injuries upon arrival. The coroner's office confirmed that the cause of death was blunt force trauma. The driver involved in the collision has not been located. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Anyone with any information, please contact the Cahokia Heights Police at (618) 825-2681.

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GRANITE CITY – Two people from Granite City accused of breaking into the same victim’s home face felony charges in related cases of burglary. Tommy D. Welch, 41, and Arian A. Abney, 26, both of Granite City, were each charged on Aug. 21, 2025 with a Class 2 felony count of burglary. Abney was additionally charged with criminal damage to property, a Class A misdemeanor. Welch and Abney allegedly entered the same residence on Bryan Avenue in Granite City on April 11, 2025, without authority and with the intent to commit a theft. Abney also reportedly caused less than $500 worth of damage to the victim’s window lock. Both of the cases against Welch and Abney were presented by the Granite City Police Department, and both were granted pretrial release from custody. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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BENTON – This year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, in conjunction with the Effingham Police Department, the Southeastern Illinois Drug Task Force, the Effingham County Sheriff’s Department, and the Effingham County State’s Attorney’s Office, have prosecuted several methamphetamine dealers in the Effingham County area. “Trafficking drugs in southern Illinois will earn dealers a federal prison sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “Thanks to the efforts of our local law enforcement partners in the Effingham County area, less meth is circulating on the streets. We will continue to work together to eliminate drugs from our communities.” “These cases show what can be accomplished when local, county, and federal agencies work together toward a common goal,” said Effingham Police Chief Kurt Davis. “I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Effingham County Sheriff’s Department, the Southeastern

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ALTON - Jacoby Arts Center will host a special program for people with dementia. The “Opening Minds Through Art” program is a nationally-recognized initiative that pairs high school or college students with older adults living with dementia. Over the course of eight weeks, the two collaborate to make art projects together. Jacoby’s “Opening Minds Through Art” project runs from 10:30–11:30 a.m. every Saturday from Sept. 27, 2025, through Nov. 15, 2025. “It gives them an opportunity to create and have choice in life. As dementia progresses, people often lose the ability to make choices,” explained Chris, who serves as the program director. “People living with dementia can still function in ways. You might have to simplify it, simplify it some more, simplify it some more. But they still can create. They still can function and do something meaningful and purposeful.” Chris graduated from Maryville University with a degre

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VENICE - On Saturday, August 25, 2025, in Venice, Illinois, Natasha Thomas, a Venice mother, experienced a devastating loss when her only son, Jerry Lamont Haynes Jr., was fatally shot in his yard after returning from a birthday celebration for his young son. What should have been a day of joy turned into a tragic moment for the family. Haynes Jr.’s death has deeply affected those close to him, including his cousin Miranda Mosby, who is organizing a fundraiser to assist the family during this difficult time. Mosby emphasized the heavy burden Thomas carries as the primary caregiver for her aging parents in addition to coping with the loss of her son. “I am asking for the community for your help. I want to help lift this burden from my cousin,” Mosby said. She also noted that prayers and donations of any size are welcome to support the family. A GoFundMe page has been created to help cover funeral expenses and provide some relief to the grieving family. Click

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GALATIA – The Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Patrol Troop 10 and Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Zone 8 are investigating a fatal crash in Saline County. On August 8, 2025, at approximately 1:58 a.m., ISP Troopers responded to IL-34 about one mile west of Harco Road, near Galatia, in Saline County. A Chevrolet Silverado was traveling southbound on IL-34 when it drove off the roadway and into a ditch. The driver and one passenger were airlifted to a regional hospital with injuries. A second passenger was pronounced deceased on scene. The ISP Traffic Reconstruction Unit and DCI Special Agents responded to the scene. Unit 1 driver – Jacob C. Ahrens, 21-year-old male from Ridgway, IL Unit 1 passenger – Konner C. Pemberton, 20-year-old male from Ridgway, IL Unit 1 passenger – Mattix T. Sandifer, 20-year-old male from Ridgway, IL (deceased) ISP continues to investigate and is working closely with the Saline County State’s Attorney’s

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GRANITE CITY – A Granite City man faces felony charges after allegedly injuring an elderly victim who tried intervening in a domestic dispute with another victim. Brandon L. Evans, 29, of Granite City, was charged on Aug. 20, 2025 with two felony counts of aggravated battery, one being a Class 2 felony and the other being a Class 3 felony. He was additionally charged with one count each of domestic battery and resisting a peace officer, both Class A misdemeanors. On Aug. 19, 2025, Evans allegedly struck a victim 60 years of age or older in the back, causing the victim to sustain multiple rib fractures. He is also accused of throwing a table at a different victim and resisting arrest. According to the state’s petition to deny Evans’s pretrial release from custody, Evans threw the table at the second victim during an altercation before the first victim attempted to intervene. “Victim tried to intervene and defendant pushed her, then threw an object at her

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EDWARDSVILLE - These are artists who will have work featured at the upcoming Edwardsville Arts Fair Sept. 26-28, 2025, at Edwardsville City Park. Today's featured artists are April Riley, Don Tran and Steven Martin. Artist #1: April Riley – RileyMade Medium: Textiles Artist Statement: "My handmade toys are designed to be remembered and loved, each one unique and full of personality. I carefully choose fabrics that are both beautiful and durable, ensuring years of comfort and play. Many of my designs come from my original illustrations, and I love adding touches of humor and sweetness." Instagram Artist #2: Don Tran – Hand-Sewn Silk Embroidery Medium: Textiles Artist Statement: "I hand-stitch colorful silk threads onto black cotton, creating vibrant images from my imagination. I begin with a simple outline, then build depth through shading and color blending. Each piece is unique, made entirely freehand as I embroider." Website

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DECATUR – Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced a $2 billion investment from Cronus Chemicals LLC (Cronus) to construct a new fertilizer production facility in Tuscola, Illinois. Supported by DCEO with an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement, the new investment will create 130 new jobs in Central Illinois, bolster the state’s manufacturing and agricultural industries, and reduce the state’s reliance on imported nitrogen products. “Illinois is building the infrastructure to power an entirely new bioeconomy by attracting major industry players to innovate right here in our state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Cronus Chemicals is a shining example of that vision. Their new $2 billion, state-of-the-art facility in Tuscola will create more than 130 full-time jobs, serve as an anchor for the agricultural industry of tomorrow, and spur investment that will

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SHAWNEETOWN, Ill. - Illinois State Fire Marshal Michele Pankow visited the Shawneetown Fire Department on Friday, August 22, to present checks totaling $350,000 each to Shawneetown and Carrier Mills Fire Departments and $300,000 to the Equality Fire Department through OSFM’s Fire Station Construction and Rehabilitation Grant Program. Shawneetown Fire Chief Terry Golden Video: https://youtu.be/OkgN4MlvKcg Carrier Mills Mayor Tracy Felty Video: https://youtu.be/u1qxKSyRHb I Equality Fire Chief Cole Baker Video: https://youtu.be/NXTshFnZLzw The OSFM awarded $5 million dollars to 17 grantees across the state. This funding will allow fire departments or fire protection districts to repair, upgrade, or construct new fire houses. A full list of recipients and be viewed here: https://sfm.illinois.gov/currentfocus/2025-fire-station-construction-and-rehabilitation-grant-award-an.html The Village of Carrier Mills showcased its new fire engine, purchased with funding from

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PONTOON BEACH – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that in addition to the ongoing closure of Illinois 111 at Interstate 270 in Madison County, a full closure of the ramp from westbound I-270 to northbound Illinois 111 will begin, weather permitting, Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025. This closure is expected to last approximately 14 days as part of the I-270/Illinois 111 interchange reconstruction project. The posted detour for the ramp closure is as follows: Eastbound I-270 to southbound I-255, then westbound Illinois 162 to Illinois 111. Westbound I-270: Take northbound Illinois 157 to westbound Chain of Rocks Road to northbound Illinois 111 Northbound I-255: Take eastbound I-270 to northbound Illinois 157 to westbound Chain of Rocks Road to northbound Illinois 111 In addition, one other outer ramp will be closed for 14 days at a different time. The specific closure date for this ramp will be announced as the work progresses. Work on the entire interchange

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WOOD RIVER — Wood River Fire Department, Wood River Police Department and Alton Memorial Ambulance responded to a bicyclist being struck. A 68-year-old bicyclist was struck Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 26, 2025, on Wesley Drive in front of the Wood River Walmart when a motorist turning left into the store’s entrance collided with the rider, Wood River Police Chief Brad Wells said. The incident occurred as the bicyclist was traveling downhill on Wesley Drive. Emergency responders called Air Evac, which landed its medical helicopter in the grassy area in front of the Walmart to transport the victim to a hospital in St. Louis. The victim had a head injury but was alert and conscious according to Chief Wells. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

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ST. LOUIS - The American Red Cross transitioned the location of its shelter for those impacted by the explosion Monday in North St. Louis County to: Faith Church, 5320 N. Highway 67, Florissant, MO 63034 A water main break affected the original shelter that Red Cross opened Monday afternoon at Saint Angela Merici, 3860 N. Highway 67, Florissant, MO 63034. Approximately 20 people came to the shelter for dinner, but no one stayed overnight. This location is now closed. Individuals affected by the explosion are encouraged to come to the new shelter location for water, meals, snacks, resources and a safe place to stay overnight. Individuals do not have to stay overnight at shelters. Individuals affected can also call 1-800-RED-CROSS for assistance or download the Red Cross Emergency app for shelter updates and resources. Identification and/or proof of residency is NOT required to be admitted to a Red Cross shelter. American Red Cross services are free and available to all regardles

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EAST ALTON - Rosewood Café is celebrating its first anniversary, and owner Tija Hunter is excited to share their homemade menu, new fall lattes, soup flights and more fun with the community. Located at 961 East Airline Drive in East Alton, the café is “doing fabulous.” Hunter loves the “charm” of the place, and she works hard to serve up that welcoming atmosphere and delicious food. “Sometimes I think I’m Italian because I feel like I have to feed everybody,” Hunter joked. “I’m very happy. Every small business owner could be busier. No two ways about that. But we’re really excited. People come in every day that have never been there, and they’re excited. It’s fun to see them, to watch them experience it.” The café’s menu includes coffee, soups, sandwiches, toast and similar items from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays, and 8 a.m.

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COLLINSVILLE — The Collinsville Police Department has named Officer Remington Paris as its Officer of the Month for July 2025. Since joining the department in April 2024, Officer Paris has made a notable impact on community safety. During July, Officer Paris was responsible for multiple arrests that led to the removal of cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and a stolen firearm from local streets. The Collinsville Police Department expressed gratitude for his efforts in pursuing criminals to protect residents. “Officer Paris has only been with CPD since April of 2024 but has made a significant impact in his short time,” the department said. “We are truly thankful for his pursuit of criminals in an effort to ensure the safety of our citizens.”

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EDWARDSVILLE - The best way to imagine your future as a Cougar at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is to see it for yourself. SIUE invites prospective students, their families, and guests to discover what the University has to offer by scheduling a campus visit this fall. “Finding the right university starts with a campus visit,” said Alicia Taylor, associate director of admissions in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. “SIUE has wonderful academic programs and resources to support student success, but visiting campus is the best way to see its heart and experience the community that makes our university home to so many.” Daily visits are offered Monday-Friday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and select Saturdays at 9 :30 a.m. Each daily visit includes a 30-minute presentation and a campus and housing tour led by a current SIUE student. From walking through the Stratton Quad, connecting with current students, and seeing what living on campus may be like,

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