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Did you know that horror films consistently rank among the most-watched genres during October, with streaming platforms reporting up to a 70% increase in horror movie viewership as Halloween approaches? This surge highlights a collective craving for thrills, chills, and communal scares. Hosting a Halloween movie marathon is a perfect way to tap into this energy, bringing friends and family together for an immersive cinematic experience. But what makes a marathon truly memorable? It’s more than just lining up a series of scary films—it’s about crafting an atmosphere, selecting the right movies, and keeping your guests engaged from the opening credits to the final scream. Setting the Scene: Crafting the Perfect Ambiance The success of a Halloween movie marathon hinges largely on the atmosphere you create. The goal is to transform your viewing space into a spooky sanctuary that heightens the suspense and fun. Lighting and Décor: Dimmed lighting is essential.

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Did you know that the average person spends nearly seven hours a day staring at screens? From smartphones and laptops to televisions and tablets, digital devices have become inseparable from our daily routines. While technology offers incredible convenience and connectivity, it also contributes to increased stress, disrupted sleep patterns, and diminished focus. What would happen if you intentionally stepped away from the digital world, even for a short period? The concept of a digital detox—deliberately reducing or eliminating screen time—has gained traction as a powerful way to restore mental clarity and improve overall well-being. This fall presents an ideal opportunity to embrace this practice and reap its numerous benefits. The Hidden Costs of Constant Connectivity Our modern lives are dominated by a constant stream of notifications, emails, social media updates, and news alerts. While these digital touchpoints keep us informed and connected, they also demand continuous

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October 6th has long been a date marked by a range of significant events across the globe, spanning politics, culture, science, and social change. In the realm of science and technology, October 6th, 1927, saw the premiere of "The Jazz Singer," the first feature-length film with synchronized dialogue sequences. This cinematic breakthrough ushered in the era of 'talkies,' revolutionizing the film industry and influencing popular culture worldwide. The shift from silent films to sound fundamentally changed storytelling methods and audience engagement in cinema. On a different note, October 6th, 1973, is remembered for the outbreak of the Yom Kippur War, when Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack on Israel during the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur. This conflict had far-reaching consequences, reshaping military strategies and international relations in the Middle East. The war also highlighted the complex and fragile nature of peace in the region, leading to future negotiations an

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Letter To The Editor: As President of the NAACP Edwardsville Branch, I write today with a burdened heart and a firm resolve. Whether one agrees or disagrees with the political activist who was recently assassinated, or with the two political lawmakers who were executed in their own home in Minnesota, one undeniable truth remains: they were human beings. Their lives mattered. And just as we continue to call the names of many others who were cut down before their time, we are reminded that every life, regardless of race, creed, political affiliation, religious beliefs, or sexual orientation, carries inherent dignity. Humanity does not become negotiable based on political affiliation, personal conviction, or social standing. We must bring that same energy for justice, compassion, and truth to every corner of our communities and nation. Freedom of speech is a cornerstone of our democracy, but the greater principle is this: every person deserves the right to live, to be heard, and to

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ALTON — The Alton Fire Department responded to a structure fire Sunday afternoon on the 3700 block of Berkeley Avenue, where flames and smoke were visible upon arrival. A box-alarm was called, prompting the East Alton Fire Department to assist at the scene. Firefighters were able to quickly bring the fire under control. “No one was home when the fire started and no injuries were reported,” Alton Deputy Chief Matthew Fischer said. He added that the Illinois State Fire Marshal was requested to investigate the cause of the fire.

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WORDEN, Ill. — Several fire departments responded Sunday afternoon to a rapidly spreading field fire near the intersection of Lamb Road and Lindenbroker Road. Firefighters arrived to find flames moving quickly through the area, prompting calls for multiple tanker trucks due to limited water availability. Departments seen on the scene was Olive, New Douglas, Worden, Hamel, Alhambra, Staunton, and Medowbrook assisted in containing the blaze. The fire was reported to be under control by approximately 4:15 p.m. No injuries were reported.

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October 4th and 5th have been significant dates in history, marked by groundbreaking achievements, pivotal moments in global politics, and cultural milestones that have shaped the world we live in today. Perhaps the most globally transformative event linked to October 4th is the launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957 by the Soviet Union. This was the world’s first artificial satellite to orbit Earth, heralding the beginning of the space age and the U.S.-Soviet space race. Sputnik's successful launch not only demonstrated technological prowess but also had profound implications for science, military strategy, and international relations, fundamentally altering the Cold War dynamics. In the realm of religion and culture, October 4th is celebrated as the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and ecology, who lived in the late 12th and early 13th centuries. Saint Francis is renowned for his love of nature and his efforts to promote peace and humility. His legacy

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SPRINGFIELD – Illinois has been selected to participate in a federal model that will increase access to potentially transformative treatments for people living with rare and severe diseases, advancing the work already underway in the state’s Medicaid program. The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) was accepted into the federal Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) Access Model, a multi-year agreement among states and drug manufacturers to increase Medicaid beneficiaries’ access to treatments. Illinois is expected to be awarded up to $9.55 million in federal dollars over the course of 10.5 years to support Illinois’ implementation of the model, including screenings, referrals and wraparound support services, with the ultimate goal of directly resolving documented barriers to care. 84% of the total model administrative operating costs are federally funded, and the remaining 16% of costs will be funded by the state – up to approximately $1.8

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ST. LOUIS — During Fire Prevention Week (October 5-11), the American Red Cross of Greater St. Louis reminds everyone of the dangers of home fires, which claim seven lives every day in the U.S. To help protect your household, test your smoke alarms each month and practice your escape plan until everyone can get out in less than two minutes. “Home fires can occur any time, any place,” said LaKricia Cox, Executive Director, Red Cross of Greater St. Louis. “The sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get out. This is critical because fire experts say you may have less than two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late.” Tips for creating your home fire escape plan and practicing your 2-minute drill: Everyone in your household should know two ways to escape from each room in your home. Smoke is dangerous. Get low and go! Decide where to meet once you get outside. Select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your

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Colorectal cancer (CRC) has long been associated with older age, but recent research shows a troubling trend in younger adults. A study published in Nature found that “in the past two decades, the incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer, which affects individuals below 50 years of age, has doubled in many countries.” Similarly, projections from Frontiers in Immunology warn that “with changes in western dietary habits worldwide, the incidence of CRC is expected to increase steadily, resulting in 2.2 million new cases by 2030.” Emerging science suggests a key piece of the puzzle lies within our gut. “We think of our microbiome as a separate, living organism within our body. It’s made of billions of bacteria, predominantly growing in our colon. There is a small number of bacteria that does exist in our small bowel, oral pharynx and nasal cavities. Just like we have bacteria on our skin everywhere,” says Daniel Martin, MD, a gastroenterologist

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BELLEVILLE — The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department honored two long-serving deputies this week, recognizing their years of dedicated service to the community. "We extend our sincere gratitude to Deputy John Pegg and Deputy Christopher Davis for their profound impact on our community and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference," the St. Clair Sheriff's Office said in a statement. St. Clair Sheriff's Department Deputy John Pegg, who began his career with the department on Sept. 18, 2005, concluded his tenure after nearly two decades. Prior to joining St. Clair County, Pegg served 12 years with the Village of Millstadt, where he was promoted to corporal and sergeant. During his time with the sheriff’s department, Pegg worked in the patrol division, served as an investigator with the Metro East Auto Theft Task Force, and was a lead investigator with the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis. He also instructed in Pressure Point Control Tactic

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ALTON - Mooneyham Art invites community members to stop by during the Alton Halloween Parade for a special exhibit. From 5–9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, community members can enjoy “The Zone” at Mooneyham Art, complete with hot cocoa, live music, and plenty of art. Charles Mooneyham, the gallery’s curator, shared it’s been a great experience opening in downtown Alton and sharing art with the community, and he can’t wait to continue his work. “It’s been a freight train,” he said. “It’s enrichment for the community and something culturally stimulating to do.” “The Zone” will feature music by Psychedelic Symphony and art by Tom Blood and Tyler Clayberg, in addition to resident artists like Natalie Welborn, Marty McKay, Jen Fisher, and many others. Mooneyham encourages people to stop by the gallery before or during the famous Alton Halloween Parade to get out of the cold and meet local artists.

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GLEN CARBON – Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois (GSofSI) is pleased to be the recipient of a generous $95,000 grant from Edwardsville Community Foundation (ECF). This grant will enhance the organization’s property, Camp Torqua, by providing a second storm shelter on the 70-plus acre property. Girl Scouts not only enjoy Camp Torqua during the summer, but they also build memories there year-round. Prior to the ECF grant, Camp Torqua’s only designated storm shelter was on the southern side of the property. In situations where time is of the essence, it was known a storm shelter needed to be quickly accessible for all, no matter where they were on the camp property. “Safety of our girls – and all of our visitors at Camp Torqua – is of the utmost importance,” said Heidi Koehl Weaver, Director of Development for GSofSI. “We are extremely thankful to Edwardsville Community Foundation for funding this great safety resource.” Camp Torqua recentl

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ROXANA — Riverbend East Rotary Club President Mark Smith presented the Service Above Self awards to Roxana High School seniors Lilliana Ray and Noah Smith during a recent ceremony recognizing their extensive community involvement and leadership. Noah Smith, a senior at Roxana High School, was honored for his wide-ranging participation in school and community activities. He is involved in Chamber Choir, Vocal Ensemble, Marching Band, Student Council, National Honor Society, Student Ambassadors, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Additionally, Noah serves on the Riverbend Growth Association Youth Committee, representing his school and community. As drum major of the Roxana Marching Band, Noah demonstrated leadership when he independently organized and directed the band during Illini Band Day at the University of Illinois after the band director stepped away. His leadership ensured a positive experience for his classmates. Noah’s volunteer work extends beyond the school,

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MADISON COUNTY — Ann Badasch, Regent of the Dr. Silas Hamilton Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, took part in a hands-on workshop focused on the proper cleaning of tombstones. The event was organized by the Ninian Edward Chapter and held recently at Vaughn Cemetery in Madison County, Illinois. The workshop aimed to provide participants with practical knowledge and techniques to preserve historic gravestones respectfully and effectively. By engaging in this training, members of the DAR chapters hope to contribute to the maintenance and care of local historic sites.

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JERSEYVILLE – In conjunction with Jerseyville Banking Center, CNB Bank & Trust, and Jersey State Bank, JCHS has selected their “Students of the Month.” The recipients for the month of September include Makenna Brunaugh (grade 10) and Trevor Tucker (11), who are being congratulated by Bradley Heitzig of Jerseyville Banking Center; Trey Cope (9) and Harmony Jantzen (8), who are being congratulated by Maranda Schnieder of CNB Bank & Trust; and Ava Little, who is being congratulated by Ashlen Scott of Jersey State Bank. F.O.C.U.S. (Finding One Clearly Unique Student) is a program which acknowledges a student each week for academic or kindness. Each week. teachers may recognize students who have performed well in their classes by selecting them as F.O.C.U.S. students for that particular week. The selection of a “Student of the Month” is based upon the number of F.O.C.U.S. nominations, which a student receives for a given month. For receiving the highest number

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) allocated $2 million to Habitat for Humanity of Illinois (HFHIL) to administer a new round of the Community Impact Fund, a program that helps working families, especially in Central and Southern Illinois, buy a home. The program is expected to create 100 new homeowners across Illinois. "Homeownership is the foundation of strong, stable communities, but too many hardworking families are shut out by rising costs and limited access to credit,” said IHDA Executive Director Kristin Faust. “By partnering with Habitat for Humanity of Illinois, IHDA is making sure that more families across our state can put down roots, build wealth, and create brighter futures. This investment is about more than homes; it’s about opportunity, stability, and hope." The Community Impact Fund provides down payment assistance in the form of forgivable grants, reducing barriers that prevent many families from qualifying for traditional

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SPRINGFIELD – The historic treasures at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum don’t simply document Lincoln’s life. They also reveal his impact on the people of his era and the generations since – something the ALPLM is examining in an exciting new book and a museum exhibition that opened Friday. The book, “Lincoln: A Life and Legacy that Defined a Nation in 100 Objects,” puts the spotlight on some of America’s most famous documents and artifacts but also includes lesser-known items that reveal surprising moments in Lincoln’s life or connect us to the people he fought for. Readers will see gorgeous photographs of objects that offer insight on Lincoln’s family life, his remarkable political rise, the painful decisions he made as commander in chief and the lives transformed by the Civil War and the end of slavery. The authors of the book are Christina Shutt, the ALPLM’s executive director, and Dr. Ian Hunt, the

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ALTON — A 17-year-old female driver was killed and her mother seriously injured Friday evening, Oct. 3, 2025, in a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Homer Adams Parkway and Seminary Road, authorities said. The Alton Police Department responded to the collision at approximately 9:05 p.m. on Oct. 3. The Alton Police said the teen driver, identified as Grace Bustos of Alton, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her mother, Meghan Bustos, who was also in the vehicle, was airlifted to a hospital in the St. Louis area and is currently in stable condition. The driver of the other vehicle involved showed signs of impairment and was taken into custody by police. The investigation was conducted by the Alton Police Traffic Division with assistance from the Illinois State Police Traffic Crash Reconstruction Team and the Madison County Coroner’s Office. Authorities closed portions of Homer Adams Parkway for several hours during the inquiry. Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford expressed

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Did you know that approximately 70 billion land animals are raised and slaughtered for food globally each year? This staggering figure underscores the profound impact humans have on animal life and highlights why a day dedicated to recognizing and protecting animals holds such importance. World Animal Day serves as a powerful reminder of our responsibility toward the myriad creatures that share our planet, fostering awareness and inspiring action to improve their welfare. Origins of World Animal Day World Animal Day was first celebrated on March 24, 1925, in Florence, Italy, during a congress of ecologists. The initiative was spearheaded by Heinrich Zimmermann, a German writer and animal rights advocate who sought to create a universal day to honor animals and promote their welfare across cultural and national boundaries. Zimmermann’s vision was to unify animal lovers, conservationists, and the general public in a global movement emphasizing compassion and respect for all species.

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