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SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Stewardship Alliance today celebrated the signing of House Bill 2196 into law, a groundbreaking reform that expands on-farm poultry processing opportunities for small-scale farmers and brings Illinois regulations closer to federal standards and neighboring states. Championed by Senator Sally Turner (R-Beason) and Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville), HB2196 increases the annual poultry processing limit from 5,000 to 7,500 birds, permits direct-to-consumer sales at farmers markets, and eliminates the 30-day ownership requirement previously imposed on consumers wishing to process poultry and livestock for personal or cultural purposes. “This is a transformative win for our members,” said Liz Moran Stelk, Executive Director of the Illinois Stewardship Alliance. “It gives small farmers the tools they need to succeed while respecting food safety and community traditions.” One such farmer is Bethany Salisbury of Saratoga Homestead

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SPRINGFIELD – Teachers will soon see mental health resources on their school IDs under a new measure supported by State Senator Christopher Belt that was signed into law Friday. “This ensures every adult working with our students has direct access to life-saving crisis resources,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This will help reinforce a culture of awareness and support.” House Bill 3000 requires all school districts serving students in grades 6-12 to have the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988), the Crisis Text Line and the Safe2Help Illinois helpline on all employee IDs. The law builds on a 2021 law expanding suicide and crisis helpline awareness in schools by ensuring all employees in school districts have this information on their ID cards. Currently, this information is required to be in student handbooks or planners and on student IDs if schools issue them. “This new law is a crucial next step in strengthening mental health safety nets

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EDWARDSVILLE — Staff members of Edwardsville School District #7 have returned, marking the start of the 2025-26 school year, reuniting with colleagues across the district. A kickoff event brought together teachers and staff from various schools within the district, emphasizing a shared commitment under this year’s theme, “One District, One Mission.” The 2025-2026 school district theme highlights the collective goal of empowering each student to achieve personal success, regardless of individual roles or locations within the district. District officials described the atmosphere as one of warmth and enthusiasm, with hugs and smiles reflecting the excitement of reconvening after the summer break. The kickoff gathering set a tone of connection and collaboration aimed at fostering growth and achievement throughout the school year. Edwardsville School District #7 looks forward to a year focused on strengthening community ties and supporting student development

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ALTON - During their regular meeting on Aug. 19, 2025, the Alton Community Unit School District #11 Board of Education learned about the District Improvement Plan and initiatives for the 2025–2026 school year. Superintendent Elaine Kane and Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Rene Hart shared that the district administrative team spent multiple days over the summer reflecting on data, goals and priorities. Hart reiterated the District Improvement Plan’s three strategic goals: creating a culture of belonging, grade-appropriate instruction and assignments, and effective professional learning communities (PLCs) that drive results. The district believes they have the right priorities identified in these goals, and the next step is to act on these goals. “You plan something, you do it, you study the results, and you act on those results,” Hart explained. “So that cycle is a continuous repeat, and we’re really excited to start a brand

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HIGHLAND — The Highland Police Department has announced multiple road closures in downtown Highland, Illinois, to accommodate the annual Kirchenfest festival set for Aug. 19-25, 2025. The event, which celebrates the city’s Swiss and German heritage, will prompt street closures and traffic changes aimed at ensuring public safety during the week-long festivities. The Highland Police Department said the following roads will be closed during the festival: 9th Street from Cypress to Lemon; Main Street from Cypress to Lemon; Cypress from 9th to Main; Lemon from 9th to Main; and Olive Street from the alley between Main and Broadway to the alley between 8th and 9th streets. Additionally, Lemon Street will be converted to one-way traffic from 8th Street to Main Street. Barricades, detours, and police officers will be deployed to manage traffic flow and assist drivers. Officials encouraged residents and visitors to plan alternate routes and exercise caution near the affected areas.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of both the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC)—and U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) are leading a Senate delegation to South Korea and Japan to strengthen economic ties between our countries as well as bolster national security by expanding quantum cooperation and exploring auxiliary shipbuilding partnerships. As our sealift and auxiliary fleet continues to be significantly smaller and less competitive than too many adversaries and allies abroad, this week the Senators met with government, military and business leaders in South Korea—a global leader in the shipbuilding industry—where they discussed how the two nations can work together to surge production of auxiliary vessels, strengthen our fleet readiness and support our sealift capacity and workforce in the event

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, with 21 attorneys general and the state of Kentucky, filed a motion to block the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) from attempting to force states to turn over personal and sensitive information about millions of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients while litigation challenging the legality of the demand continues. SNAP is a federally funded, state-administered program that provides billions of dollars in food assistance to tens of millions of low-income families across the country. SNAP applicants provide their private information to state agencies with the understanding, backed by long-standing state and federal laws, that their information will not be used for unrelated purposes. “SNAP provides access to food for millions of Illinois families while also supporting thousands of local grocers, farmers’ markets and other merchants who are critical to states’ economies,” Raoul said. “Individual

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Did you know that children who spend time outdoors are more likely to develop stronger problem-solving skills and enhanced creativity? Yet, in an age dominated by screens and structured activities, many kids rarely experience the joys and challenges of camping. Hosting a backyard campout offers a perfect blend of adventure and safety, letting children explore the outdoors without leaving home. Setting up a memorable and enjoyable campout requires thoughtful planning, creativity, and attention to detail. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to create an unforgettable backyard camping experience for kids. Planning the Perfect Backyard Campout Before pitching a tent or gathering supplies, consider what will make the campout both fun and comfortable for your children. Choosing the Right Spot Select a flat, grassy area in your backyard that is free of sharp objects, low-hanging branches, or other hazards. Proximity to the house is also important—being close allows

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August 20th holds a significant place in global history, marked by events that have shaped nations, cultures, and international relations. Arguably the most impactful event observed on August 20th occurred in 1988, when Iran and Iraq agreed to a ceasefire ending one of the longest and most devastating conflicts of the late 20th century—the Iran-Iraq War. This ceasefire, brokered by the United Nations, was a critical turning point in Middle Eastern geopolitics, halting nearly eight years of brutal warfare that claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and caused widespread destruction across both countries. The Iran-Iraq War, which began in 1980, was fueled by territorial disputes and deep-seated political tensions. Over the years, it evolved into a complex conflict involving not just the two nations but also drawing in regional and global powers through proxy engagements and arms support. The ceasefire agreement signed on August 20, 1988, under UN Resolution 598, mandated a cessation

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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois Commerce Commission is inviting Ameren Illinois customers to share their views on the utility’s proposed $134 million natural gas rate increase during two public hearings scheduled for late August. The hearings will be held Wednesday, August 27, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the CMS Regional Complex, 4800 W. Wabash Ave., Springfield, and Thursday, August 28, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at New Life Community Church, 1919 State St., East St. Louis. Ameren Illinois filed its petition for the rate increase with the ICC in January 2025. The commission uses rate cases to determine the appropriate level of funding utilities require to provide safe and reliable service while ensuring costs remain reasonable for customers. The process includes an 11-month legal proceeding during which the ICC reviews the utility’s filing and input from various interveners. At the hearings, an ICC Administrative Law Judge will open the session, followed by a brief presentation

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Expect a warm day with a high that feels like 92 degrees under about 45% cloud cover. Winds will be light from the north-northeast at around 8 mph with gusts up to 17 mph. Tonight will be clear with a low near 62, feeling cool. Allergy levels are generally low with grass, mold, ragweed, and tree pollen all at low levels. The UV index is very high, so be sure to wear sun protection if you plan to be outdoors. Tomorrow's Outlook: Expect a mostly sunny and beautiful day with a high near 83 and a low around 62. Winds will shift to the northeast at about 8 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. Overnight will be partly cloudy with temperatures staying mild. For more updates, visit https://riverbender.com/weather .

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Expect a warm day with a high that feels like 92 degrees under about 45% cloud cover. Winds will be light from the north-northeast at around 8 mph with gusts up to 17 mph. Tonight will be clear with a low near 62, feeling cool. Allergy levels are generally low with grass, mold, ragweed, and tree pollen all at low levels. The UV index is very high, so be sure to wear sun protection if you plan to be outdoors. Tomorrow's Outlook: Expect a mostly sunny and beautiful day with a high near 83 and a low around 62. Winds will shift to the northeast at about 8 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. Overnight will be partly cloudy with temperatures staying mild. For more updates, visit https://riverbender.com/weather .

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JERSEYVILLE – The Splash Pad at Jerseyville’s Wittman Park is staying open past its “regular season” with extended hours into September and a new front desk phone number. Mayor Kevin Stork announced at Tuesday’s City Council meeting that the Splash Pad officially has a phone number. An attendant at the front desk of the bathhouse can now be reached at 618-946-8928. Stork said the front desk manager will regularly update the greeting message as needed with information on ongoing events, inclement weather, and other announcements. While the Splash Pad’s “regular season” ended on Aug. 16, 2025, the city’s Parks and Recreation Department recently announced the facility will remain open for an “extended season” with extended weekend hours. The Splash Pad will now be open from 4 to 7 p.m. on the Fridays of Aug. 22, Aug. 29, Sept. 5, and Sept. 12, 2025. Visitors can also enjoy the splash pad from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. o

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GILLESPIE — Brayden D. Parker, a 21-year-old man from Benld, was charged Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2025, with possession of methamphetamine, according to the Macoupin County State’s Attorney’s Office. Parker faces one count of possession of meth, a Class 3 felony. Authorities allege that on June 25, 2025, he knowingly possessed less than five grams of methamphetamine or a substance containing methamphetamine. The charge was filed based on probable cause and does not indicate guilt. Parker, like all defendants, is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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EDWARDSVILLE – A command control of sorts was set up on Thursday, Aug. 14 at the John F. Kennedy Community Center in Florissant, Mo., to support members of the military who served their country. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) co-hosted the annual Florissant Veterans Resource and Job Fair that featured vendors from Illinois and Missouri. Partnering with VUB were the City of Florissant, The Kaufman Fund and Florissant area veterans service organizations. Area veterans were privy to free resources and information, job offers, services, free clothing and more. “The veterans I’ve talked to today are very appreciative of us providing this Resource and Job Fair,” said Bill Schnarr, event organizer/coordinator and U.S. Army veteran. Schnarr, who was wounded, served from 2000-13. “They were happy to see so many agencies set up to help them. And that’s what we’re striving to do each year, build a bigger and

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MADISON COUNTY — The Madison County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Granite City man on felony charges related to the solicitation of sexual acts from a minor following an investigation that began on August 1, 2025. Deputies responded to the 2500 block of Meadowland Drive in unincorporated Granite City after reports of an active disturbance between two males. Initial contact with several individuals revealed that one of the subjects may have solicited sexual acts from a minor. While no charges were filed in connection with the disturbance itself, deputies launched an investigation into the allegation. Investigators seized multiple pieces of evidence and implemented a safety plan for the minor involved. Detectives from the Madison County Digital Forensics Division served search warrants and conducted interviews that uncovered further evidence supporting the accusation. They also determined that the suspect, Matthew L. Dodd, 45, of the 2100 block of Robert Avenue in Granite

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LOMBARD - In a commencement ceremony held August 15, Kelby Steiner of Godfrey received the Doctor of Chiropractic degree from National University of Health Sciences. "We are very proud of Kelby Steiner, as National University's Doctor of Chiropractic program is one of the most demanding of its kind," says President Joseph Stiefel of National University. National University of Health Sciences, a not-for-profit educational institution with locations in Illinois and Florida, offers a wide range of degrees in health sciences, including degrees in chiropractic and naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, and biomedical sciences.

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EAST ST. LOUIS – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced ramp closures on westbound Interstate 55/64 in St. Clair County at the following locations: I-55/64 eastbound exit ramp to Third Street I-55/64 westbound to Martin Luther King Bridge left exit ramp into downtown St. Louis Collinsville Road to Martin Luther King Bridge ramp Beginning at 5 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, traffic will be restricted at these locations to allow for road construction. All lanes will reopen to traffic by 5 p.m. the same day. 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 o

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EDWARDSVILLE — The murder trial of Stanford Stokes began Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, in Madison County, where he faces charges including three counts of first-degree murder for the fatal shooting of Jarred Hayes. Assistant State’s Attorney Audrey Paulda told the court that Stokes went to a residence at 914 East 7th Street in Alton after becoming angry that his on-again, off-again girlfriend would not answer her phone. According to Paulda, Stokes kicked in a side door, entered the home, and found his girlfriend in bed with another man. Paulda said Stokes took a gun from the girlfriend’s purse and fired shots. Evidence presented by the prosecution includes a voicemail recording of the incident, captured because Stokes allegedly forgot to hang up the phone upon entering the residence. In contrast, Madison County Public Defender Ginny Smith argued that Stokes acted in self-defense. Smith said Stokes went to the home because he could not reach his girlfriend and had been

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COTTAGE HILLS – A sex offender from Cottage Hills was charged last week with his latest failure to register as legally required. Casey S. Cato, 48, of the 1400 block of 1st Street in Cottage Hills, was charged on Aug. 12, 2025 with a Class 2 felony count of unlawful failure to register. As a registered sex offender, Cato allegedly failed to report a change of address to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office within three days as legally required. He had previously been convicted of the same offense in Madison County in 2013. The Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office filed a petition to deny Cato’s pretrial release from custody, stating he has “repeatedly failed to register as a sex offender and has eluded law enforcement attempts to get him in compliance.” According to the Illinois State Police Sex Offender Registry , Cato was initially convicted of aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a victim 13-16 years of age. The victim was 14 years ol

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