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ALTON - Randy, known from the television series "Trailer Park Boys," is bringing a unique event called Randy’s Cheeseburger Picnic to Peoria on Oct. 27 and Carbondale on Oct. 30, 2025. The gatherings promise a blend of food, music, games, and lighthearted entertainment, reflecting the spirit of the show and its fans. Randy recently appeared on Riverbender.com's "Our Daily Show!" with host C.J. Nasello. Randy described the event as “a night of a little bit of silliness, which is what the world needs,” and said attendees can expect “some jokes and we sing some songs, have some contests and play some games, it is short of like a variety show.” He expressed hope that many fans, some even dressed as characters like Julian, Ricky, or Bubbles, would come out to join the festivities. During an interview with Nasello, Randy shared insights about his love for cheeseburgers, emphasizing a preference for thinner “Smash Burgers” over thicker patties.

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ALTON - Kathy Budde emerged as the top raffle winner in the $10,000 Sweepstakes at St. Mary's Oktoberfest, held Friday through Sunday, Oct. 10-12, 2025, on the church grounds in Alton. The annual event, overseen this year by new Chairman Ryan Downey, featured a range of activities including a 5K race, live music, games, and traditional German ceremonies. The full raffle sweepstakes winners will be released once everyone is notified, Carolyn Simansky, a spokesperson for the event, said. Simansky described the weekend as having “great weather and really good” attendance. She noted that the event saw strong support from sponsors and participants, with sweepstakes sales potentially breaking previous records. “It is such a good fundraiser for both church and school building updates,” Simansky said. The festivities began Friday evening with a 5K Race and 1-mile walk, followed by a performance from The Glendale Riders. On Saturday at 1 p.m., Fr. Chris Uhl, OMV,

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Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, says Heather Thompson. And she would know. Thompson is a breast health navigator at OSF HealthCare, helping patients navigate appointments, insurance and more. And Thompson is, herself, a breast cancer survivor. But what many in the cancer space might not realize, Thompson says, is that breast cancer can affect men. It’s rare, with 1% of men statistically getting it, Thompson says. But it’s worth knowing how to spot, prevent and treat it. “There can be severe cases. A lot of times, men don’t notice things or worry about things like women might,” Thompson says. “The cancer is there longer and has a chance to metastasize and get into their lymph nodes. A lot of times, men will get gynecomastia. That can cause swelling in the breast tissue and a mass.” Those gynecomastia masses can limit a man’s ability to feel a cancerous lump, delaying care. Breast cancer basics Genet

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SPRINGFIELD — Today marks a moment many Illinoisans have waited years for: former House Speaker Michael J. Madigan reports to federal prison which is a reminder of the need for meaningful ethics reform in Illinois, according to Darren Bailey, candidate for Governor. For decades, Madigan symbolized everything wrong with Illinois politics — backroom deals, insider favors, and pay-to-play corruption that robbed hardworking families of trust in their government. His conviction should serve as a wake-up call for every elected official in this state. But instead of leading the charge for reform, Governor JB Pritzker stayed silent for months while Madigan’s criminal enterprise unraveled. It wasn’t until November 2020, after mounting public outrage, that Pritzker finally called for Madigan’s resignation — long after federal prosecutors exposed the bribery scheme surrounding his closest allies. Even when allegations of sexual harassment emerge

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GLEN CARBON - The Knights of Columbus “Tootsie Roll” Drive began in the 1970s as a creative fundraising initiative dedicated to supporting organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Over the years, this event has become a cherished tradition, reflecting the Knights' commitment to making a positive impact on their community. St. Cecilia Knights of Columbus Fundraiser This year, the St. Cecilia Knights of Columbus are proud to present their annual Intellectual Disabilities “Tootsie Roll” Drive fundraiser with an exciting music trivia night. Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 18th, as this event promises an entertaining evening for all attendees. In a departure from previous years, members will not be standing on street corners distributing Tootsie Rolls and collecting donations. Instead, the fundraiser will take place indoors, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy music-themed trivia while supporting a worthy

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ALTON - The most recent Art Fahrner-Edward Jones Alton High School Remarkable Redbird Senior Sam Caughran has stayed busy through his high school career in music and academics. Sam is an integral part of the Wind Ensemble, the pit orchestra for the plays, Marching 100 and also the Symphonic Orchestra. He is also involved in Spanish Club and Biology Club. Sam is also a member of the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. Sam has been selected as the head drum major for the Marching 100 and also plays trumpet for the symphonic band. He enjoys the leadership that goes along with being the head drum major after being a member for the previous three years. Sam shared about a recent competition that he and the Marching 100 attended at the Dome at the America's Center in downtown St Louis called Bands of America. He really enjoyed the experience, as it is something that happens every other year and includes about sixty bands that come from high schools across the country. Sam also has

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Police Department hosted its annual National Night Out event Tuesday evening, Oct. 7, 2025, at City Park, aiming to strengthen community ties through collaboration and partnership. The event featured participation from multiple local agencies, including the Edwardsville Fire Department, Glen Carbon Police Department, SIUE Police Department, and Illinois State Police Troop 8. Residents gathered to enjoy free food, giveaways, activities, and services provided by a range of business and organization sponsors. Among the contributors were Prairie Farms Dairy, First Community Credit Union, Bank of Madison County, Junior Service Club of Edwardsville/Glen Carbon, Goldenberg Heller & Antognoli, P.C., Nu Way, Cargill, and Edley's Bar-B-Que. Additional on-site participants included ADT, Chiro One, Clean Eatz, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Dieterich Bank, Dollar Tree, EHS Peer Influence Club, Madison County Child Advocacy Center,

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COLLINSVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that Caseyville Road between Morrison Drive and Glendale Drive in St. Clair County will be closed beginning, weather permitting, Monday, Oct. 13. The road closure is necessary to allow the city of Collinsville, in coordination with Collinsville High School, to install water lines across Caseyville Road. A posted detour will be in place to safely guide motorists around the closure. The closure is expected to conclude Sunday, Nov. 30. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to detour signs in work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

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EDWARDSVILLE – Every child in the Edwardsville area, regardless of their ability, will soon have a new place to play. The Edwardsville City Council approved the installation of a new all-abilities playground after hearing passionate public comments from three family and community members last week. First to address the aldermen was Grace Morrison, who emphasized how important this playground would be for her cousin, Henry. “I’m supporting the playground for kids in wheelchairs, like my cousin, Henry,” Grace said. “It’s really sad when Henry has to watch us play, and so that is why I want one.” Another supporter, Madison, underscored the need for more accessible playgrounds in the city. “I have a brother who’s in a wheelchair, and he can’t use a lot of the playgrounds here in Edwardsville, so it would be really nice if he could come and have somewhere to play in Edwardsville too,” she said. Carrie Morrison outlined

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While some of the options like surgery and medication may raise parents’ eyebrows, experts are making a few things clear. Obesity can lead to serious health issues like heart disease, asthma and diabetes. But it is treatable, and each family should talk to a health care provider about what course is best. The AAP says waiting and hoping things get better is not a good choice. The guidelines fall back on the proven methods of diet and exercise. But other suggestions include: In-person, family-based behavioral health treatment over a three-to-12 month period For children 12 and up, physicians should consider prescribing weight loss medication. For children 13 and up with severe obesity, providers should consider recommending weight loss surgery. Carly Zimmer is a registered dietician-nutritionist at OSF HealthCare in Pontiac, Illinois . She says it’s not easy for kids to eat right and exercise. Less healthy foods are more easily accessible, portions have gone up and

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Letter To The Editor: In defense of the County Board's Resolution celebrating the life of Charlie Kirk. I am writing in response to the statement recently made by the NAACP Alton Branch President Leon Smallwood. I will also address his attacks on the Madison County Board. The purpose of this letter is to bring unity to all the communities in Madison County. Mr. Smallwood's comment about Charlie Kirk building his Platform on belittling the African American Community is completely false. I am not sure if Mr. Smallwood did not watch the videos at all or took little pieces out of context. Charlie Kirk often talked about strengthening the Black Community through improving education and family. He stated that many African Americans go to failing schools in our country's major cities. Charlie argued that they should be able to pick their schools instead of being forced into failing ones. Charlie Kirk also talked about how he thought the number of abortions in the African American Community

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Letter To The Editor: The Madison County Board voted to honor Charlie Kirk with a day of remembrance. A few letters spoke out against it. I appreciate them airing their views. Isn't freedom of speech great! We can still be friends even though we disagree. I have a different opinion on the Madison County vote. To be sure, diversity is an important issue - a very important one. But the issue of diversity is not the only serious issue to be concerned about. Freedom of speech, foreign policy, and the economy are others. Even though Charlie made some controversial statements, which I do not completely agree with, he was much more than that. He saw how the liberal ideology was so dominant in universities that it suppressed free speech from conservatives. Overall, Charlie Kirk was a powerful force for good. That is why I agree with the board's decision to honor him. Charlie championed free speech. Charlie Kirk was assassinated by a man who hated Kirk for political reasons. He was driven

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ALTON - The Alton Police Department has named Detective Jacob Stewart as its Officer of the Month for June 2025 in recognition of his role in a complex armed robbery and assault investigation. On June 8, 2025, at the Oakwood Estates Housing Complex, Detective Stewart demonstrated leadership and investigative skill by quickly identifying multiple suspects involved in the incident. His efforts included conducting critical interviews in Springfield and collaborating with fellow detectives and the U.S. Marshals Service. This teamwork led to felony charges against four individuals. Additionally, Detective Stewart helped coordinate tactical warrant operations that resulted in the arrest of the four offenders and the recovery of six firearms. The department highlighted his professionalism, initiative, and commitment to public safety as qualities that exemplify the best of the Alton Police Department. Detective Stewart’s work has been formally recognized as a significant contribution

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TROY, Ill. — The Troy Police Department welcomed a new officer and recognized a community partner during a recent ceremony. The department recently held a swearing-in ceremony for Officer T.J. Wilson, who recently graduated from the police academy and has begun his field training. Members of the Troy Police Department expressed pride in welcoming Wilson to the team. During the event, the department also presented an award to CIT Trucking in appreciation of the company’s ongoing support of local initiatives. CIT Trucking has contributed to community events such as the Special Olympics and the department’s annual golf tournament. The Troy Police Department acknowledged CIT Trucking’s generosity and commitment, highlighting the importance of partnerships between law enforcement and the community.

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS — Fairview Heights police responded early Sunday morning, Oct. 12, 2025, to a reported domestic disturbance near the 100 block of Union Hill, where a gunshot was fired, but no injuries were reported. Officers arrived at the scene following a call about the domestic situation and the discharge of a firearm. One individual was taken into custody in connection with the incident. Authorities confirmed that although a firearm was used during the disturbance, no one was hit by a bullet. The investigation into the event remains ongoing.

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O'FALLON, Ill. — The O'Fallon Police Department will host its annual Night to Unite event on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the O'Fallon Community Park. The event is designed to foster positive interactions between community members and local law enforcement. The event is free to attend and will feature complimentary food, goodie bags for children, and raffles with prizes including bicycles and pizza. Attendees will also have the opportunity to view police, fire, and EMS vehicles on display. Night to Unite serves as an annual occasion for residents to engage with the O'Fallon Police Department and strengthen community relations.

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY - St. Louis County Police Department Bureau of Crimes Against Persons and Accident Reconstruction detectives are investigating a pedestrian fatally struck in the 11900 block of Lusher Road, which resulted in the death of an adult male. At 1:31 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, St. Louis County Police officers from the North County Precinct responded to a call for service for a motor vehicle crash in the 11900 block of Lusher Road near Victorian Village Drive. Upon arrival, officers located an adult male who had been struck by a vehicle. The deceased has been identified as Gregory Peete, 31 years of age, of the 7700 block of Contour Drive, Normandy, MO 63121. St. Louis County Police said the male was transported to an area hospital for treatment, but succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased. Preliminary investigation revealed the male was in the roadway when he was struck by a motor vehicle. The driver of the striking vehicle remained on the scene and

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ALTON - Community members who want to know more about Medicare and the annual enrollment period are encouraged to attend an upcoming seminar by Medicare Insurance Techs. From 6–7 p.m. on Oct. 23, Nov. 13, Nov. 27, and Dec. 4, 2025, you can stop by Suite 511 in the RiverBender.com Building for a presentation by Jamie Goble. Goble will talk about the “tons of changes” she has seen in insurance plans this year, and she will be available for one-on-one meetings with people who want to know more about their eligibility. “Sometimes they just have to give the plan a trial run. If they don’t like it, then I can come back and they can try something else,” Goble explained. “But I’m always there to answer the phone if they have any questions about if a claim doesn't go through. Or, if they need help getting their medications and they don’t qualify for extra help, we can always call the carrier and get them on a plan so they can

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Patrons are in for a quacking good time when they visit Hayner Library at Alton Square Mall during the month of October! In addition to checking out a bestseller, attending one of the library’s many programs, or picking up an item from the Library of Things (such as a stand mixer, card table and chairs, or tool kit, among dozens of other unique things), patrons can vote for their favorite decorated rubber duck! In September, the library invited teens to stop by and pick up a rubber duck, decorate it, and return it to the library for a “duck costume contest” to be held this month. The decorated ducks are now on display in the library’s TeenSpace section. Patrons can visit Hayner Library at Alton Square Mall from now until October 31 and vote for their favorite decorated duck. The first-place winner of the contest will take home an LED duck wall light, the second-place winner will receive a duck-themed blanket, and the third-place winner will earn a pair

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EDWARDSVILLE – The Third Judicial Circuit of Madison County is proud to announce the return of the Honorable Sarah D. Smith, Circuit Judge, following her two-week mobilization to serve in a senior leadership role during Bright Star 2025, one of the largest multinational military exercises in the world. The exercise, held in Egypt, concluded in mid-September and brought together over a dozen allied nations for high-level joint training operations. Judge Smith, a presiding circuit judge in Madison County and a long-serving officer in the Illinois Army National Guard (ILARNG), was recently appointed as the ILARNGs G7 – Plans and Exercises Officer, where she is responsible for leading and integrating long-range planning and operational design. Bright Star 2025 marked her first mission in this new strategic role, following her prior service as the State Judge Advocate. During the exercise, Judge Smith served as Chief of Staff for the exercise’s Higher Command (HICON),

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