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EAST ST. LOUIS — Dr. Lawrence Rainey has been named interim principal of Dr. Katie Harper Wright Elementary School for the new school year, East St. Louis School District 189 has announced. Dr. Rainey brings extensive experience to his new role, having served as an assistant principal within the district and previously as a special education teacher at Dr. Wright Elementary. He also has experience as a principal outside the district. Known for his warm and approachable leadership style, Dr. Rainey is recognized for building strong relationships with students, staff, and families. The district highlighted his ability to foster a positive school culture and support student success, describing him as a trusted presence in the schools. As interim principal, the East St. Louis School District 189 said Dr. Rainey will continue to lead with "a focus on compassion, dedication, and academic excellence." East St. Louis School District 189 encouraged the community to welcome Dr.

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SPRINGFIELD – Fairgoers who stop by the Governor’s Tent during the 2025 Illinois State Fair can pick up a free pocket-size copy of the Declaration of Independence and learn how their community can join in the statewide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary next year. “The 250th anniversary is not just a celebration of our nation’s past. It's an opportunity to examine how we ended up where we are today and an invitation to consider the future we want to build,” said Gabrielle Lyon, chair of the Illinois America 250 Commission and executive director of Illinois Humanities. “We invite fairgoers to visit our booth in the Governor’s Tent to find out how they can be part of this historic milestone for our nation.” The Illinois America 250 Commission is encouraging communities, libraries, schools, historical societies, cultural institutions, and individuals of all ages to be part of efforts to develop an inclusive commemoration o

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SPRINGFIELD – Fairgoers who stop by the Governor’s Tent during the 2025 Illinois State Fair can pick up a free pocket-size copy of the Declaration of Independence and learn how their community can join in the statewide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary next year. “The 250th anniversary is not just a celebration of our nation’s past. It's an opportunity to examine how we ended up where we are today and an invitation to consider the future we want to build,” said Gabrielle Lyon, chair of the Illinois America 250 Commission and executive director of Illinois Humanities. “We invite fairgoers to visit our booth in the Governor’s Tent to find out how they can be part of this historic milestone for our nation.” The Illinois America 250 Commission is encouraging communities, libraries, schools, historical societies, cultural institutions, and individuals of all ages to be part of efforts to develop an inclusive commemoration o

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SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Acting Director James Jennings is announcing the Agency’s participation in the 2025 Illinois State Fair, with an educational exhibit themed “Together for Healthier Air!” The exhibit, located in Conservation World, will offer interactive games and educational information for young visitors, and adults will also find guidance on ozone, particle pollution, clean energy, air pollution action days, the Air Quality Index, wildfire smoke, and the Illinois EPA’s curriculum on energy. The exhibit will demonstrate how everyone can contribute to healthier air and learn why it is so important. “Each year, we have the opportunity to connect with Illinois residents of all ages by highlighting one of the many topics important to our environment, and this year we will focus on air quality,” said Acting Director Jennings. “We strive to provide educational information to children through games an

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SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Acting Director James Jennings is announcing the Agency’s participation in the 2025 Illinois State Fair, with an educational exhibit themed “Together for Healthier Air!” The exhibit, located in Conservation World, will offer interactive games and educational information for young visitors, and adults will also find guidance on ozone, particle pollution, clean energy, air pollution action days, the Air Quality Index, wildfire smoke, and the Illinois EPA’s curriculum on energy. The exhibit will demonstrate how everyone can contribute to healthier air and learn why it is so important. “Each year, we have the opportunity to connect with Illinois residents of all ages by highlighting one of the many topics important to our environment, and this year we will focus on air quality,” said Acting Director Jennings. “We strive to provide educational information to children through games an

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SPRINGFIELD – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today encouraged Illinois families to visit his office’s tent at 2025 Illinois State Fair, which is located on Grandstand Avenue and offers many free resources focused on enhancing public safety and protecting seniors from new and emerging cyber scams. “I encourage all families to visit the Attorney General’s tent to learn about the important services my office provides and how we work to protect residents throughout the year,” Raoul said. “Staff from the Attorney General’s office will be on hand to demonstrate our work to protect children online and to provide tips to avoid consumer fraud. Visitors to the tent can also learn more about the ways my office is working to address the impacts of violence and to defend the rights of all Illinoisans.” Children visiting the Attorney General’s tent can learn and have fun at the interactive photo station where Buddy and Browser, the animated online

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CAHOKIA HEIGHTS — The Cahokia Heights Police Department held its first National Night Out event this past week, aiming to strengthen community ties and promote neighborhood safety. The event took place recently in Cahokia Heights as part of a nationwide campaign designed to foster police-community partnerships. National Night Out is an annual initiative that encourages residents and law enforcement to come together to build safer, more caring neighborhoods. The Cahokia Heights Police Department expressed appreciation for the community’s participation and support during the event. In a statement, the Cahokia Heights Police Department said, “Your presence and support meant everything as we came together to build stronger community ties and celebrate unity.” They also affirmed their ongoing dedication and commitment to the city’s businesses and residents. The Cahokia Police Department also added, “It is a great day to be a Cahokia Heights

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ALTON - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the type of aircraft involved in the crash into a barge in the Mississippi River near the Melvin Price Lock and Dam as a Hughes 369D helicopter. Crystal Essiaw, a spokesperson for the FAA, said the time of the accident was 11:05 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, and also confirmed the aircraft did crash into a barge on the Mississippi River. The Hughes 369D is a light turbine helicopter that is a versatile aircraft and is described as one known for speed, maneuverability, and compact size. The FAA also confirmed again that two people were on board the aircraft at the time of the crash, and they died. "The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the incident, with the NTSB leading the inquiry and providing updates as they become available," the FAA said. The FAA described the information as preliminary and subject to change. The FAA plans to post a preliminary accident report, typically the next

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Did you know that cats have been companions to humans for nearly 9,000 years? Despite their long-standing presence in human society, cats have often lived in the shadows of their canine counterparts when it comes to public recognition. International Cat Day, however, shines a spotlight on these enigmatic creatures, celebrating their unique bond with humans and the important roles they play in our lives. But how did this day come to be, and why does it matter so much to cat lovers and animal advocates worldwide? The Origins of International Cat Day International Cat Day was established in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), an organization dedicated to animal protection around the globe. The day was created to raise awareness about cats’ needs and to promote their welfare, both as beloved pets and as essential members of many ecosystems. While cats have been revered in various cultures throughout history—from the sacred felines of ancient Egypt to

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August 8th is a day marked by groundbreaking achievements, pivotal moments, and remarkable events spanning centuries and continents. In 1588, the English navy, under the command of Lord Charles Howard and Sir Francis Drake, defeated the Spanish Armada in a decisive naval battle that altered the balance of power in Europe. This victory was pivotal in establishing England as a dominant maritime force and limiting Spanish influence, shaping the geopolitical landscape of the time. Moving forward to the 20th century, August 8, 1945, was a day of intense and somber significance during World War II. The Soviet Union declared war on Japan, launching a massive offensive against Japanese forces in Manchuria. This action hastened Japan’s surrender and contributed to the end of the war, underscoring the complex dynamics of global conflict and diplomacy. On a different note, August 8, 1963, saw the establishment of the Great Train Robbery in the United Kingdom, a high-profile heist that

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O'FALLON, Ill. – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, with the Department of Justice (DOJ), Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin and New York Attorney General Letitia James, filed a proposed settlement today requiring broad divestitures to resolve the challenge to UnitedHealth Group Inc.’s (UnitedHealth) $3.3 billion acquisition of Amedisys Inc. Among those divestitures is an Amedisys home health location in O’Fallon, Illinois. “This divestiture will help preserve health care service competition in the area, which is essential to preserving access, quality and affordability in home health care services for the most vulnerable patients,” Raoul said. “This collaboration with the Department of Justice and my fellow attorneys general allows us to ensure a competitive labor market for local nurses and health care professionals and to protect older residents and those managing chronic conditions.” The propose

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Today's high will reach 93 degrees with a low of 72. Expect sunny skies with hot and humid conditions. It will feel as hot as 100 degrees, so be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks if you're doing any strenuous activities outside. There are no watches, warnings, or advisories currently in effect. Allergy levels show a moderate ragweed count, low grass, mold, and tree pollen. The UV index is very high at 9, so sunscreen is recommended if you're spending time outdoors. Tomorrow's forecast calls for more of the same with a high of 93 and a low of 72. It will be sunny, hot, and humid again, with a very hot feels like temperature of 101 degrees. Winds will be from the south-southeast at about 10 mph with gusts up to 23 mph. Remember to drink plenty of water, wear light clothing, and limit outdoor exertion during peak heat hours. For more details, visit https://riverbender.com/weather .

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COLLINSVILLE — Phillip Tamburello returned to his hometown as he officially joined the Collinsville Police Department, bringing with him over seven years of law enforcement experience. Tamburello, a 2016 graduate of Collinsville High School and former captain of the CPD Explorer post, began his policing career after earning an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Southwestern Illinois College. Prior to joining Collinsville, he served with the Caseyville Police Department as a patrolman and detective and was named Officer of the Year in 2022. He will assume the designated service number 241, previously held by Terry Wasser, who retired from the Collinsville Police Department in 2015 after 22 years of service. Wasser, who also started his career in Caseyville before joining Collinsville, was present to welcome Tamburello to the department. The Collinsville Police Department expressed enthusiasm about Tamburello’s return, highlighting his local Kahoks

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ALTON - J.F Electric released a statement after the helicopter crash earlier Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. "It is with deep sadness that we confirm a serious incident occurred earlier today involving one of our employees and a subcontractor. Tragically, the incident resulted in the passing of both the employee and subcontractor. "Out of respect for the family's privacy, we are not releasing any additional details at this time. Our thoughts are with their loved ones, colleagues, and all those affected by this loss. We are providing support to our employees, including on-site grief counseling, and remain focused on caring for our team during this difficult time." J.F. Electric is cooperating fully with the appropriate authorities as they conduct their review of the incident."

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BELLEVILLE — Aetna Better Health of Illinois will host a free community event to support expecting families and those with young children on Saturday, Aug. 9, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Belleville Township High School West. The circus-themed celebration, called Under the Big Top: Community Baby Shower & School Kickoff, will take place in the gymnasium at 4063 Frank Scott Parkway. The event aims to provide essential baby items and health services to families in St. Clair County. Attendees can receive giveaways including car seats, strollers, and other baby essentials at no cost. In addition, on-site school physicals, dental screenings, and haircuts priced at 99 cents will be offered. Health and wellness information will also be available. The Doula Lab and Aetna Better Health of Illinois are partnering to host the event, which is designed to assist families of all ages and stages. The organizations hope the gathering will provide resources and support as families prepare for the

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GRANITE CITY – Two Granite City men have been charged with felony weapon offenses after allegedly possessing loaded handguns without valid Firearm Owners’ Identification (FOID) cards. Joshua E. Smith, 20, of Granite City, was charged on July 29, 2025 with aggravated unlawful possession of weapons (a Class 4 felony) and aggravated assault (a Class A misdemeanor). Smith allegedly unlawfully possessed a Glock 19 9mm handgun which was uncased, loaded, and immediately accessible at the time of the offense on May 14, 2025. His possession of the weapon was illegal given his lack of a currently valid FOID card. Smith was additionally accused of displaying the weapon “in a threatening manner” towards another individual, resulting in the assault charge. The Hartford Police Department presented the case against Smith, who was granted pretrial release from custody. Another Granite City man was charged in an unrelated case on July 30, 2025, with aggravated unlawful possession

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RIVERBEND - Yelena Gass-Bronstein believes in the kindness of strangers. After spending 26 years as a registered nurse at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, including several months on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic, Gass-Bronstein is in the same position as her patients: She’s asking a stranger to save her life. Gass-Bronstein is one of the 90,000 people in the U.S. who currently need a kidney transplant, and she’s looking for a living kidney donor who would be willing to give her that gift. “Transplantation is an amazing journey that tests the limits of human strength and courage,” she said. “It requires commitment and faith as well as mental, emotional and physical endurance. It is one of life’s greatest challenges, and you know what is the reward? The life itself. All of us, we want to live, because life is so good.” Gass-Bronstein was on the kidney transplant list two years ago, when her doctor gave her “the

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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 northbound Illinois 111 to eastbound I-270 will begin, weather permitting, Monday, Aug. 11, 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: Southbound Illinois 111 to eastbound Illinois 162, then northbound I-255 to eastbound I-270. Two additional outer ramps will be closed for 14 days, each at different times. Specific closure dates will be announced as the work progresses. Work on the entire interchange is anticipated to be completed by the end of October. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes during these closures. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) will offer plenty of public health information and services, along with some giveaways, in its two locations at the Illinois State Fair. The Springfield fair runs August 7-17, 2025. “It is almost time for the annual Illinois State Fair, and I can’t wait to enjoy this truly, unique Illinois experience,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “As you enjoy the food and fun, please stop by one of IDPH’s two exciting locations to learn valuable information to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy. We look forward to seeing you at the Fairgrounds.” The IDPH main tent will be located on the east side of the Annex Building, just across from the Lincoln Stage. A different IDPH program will be spotlighted each day of the fair: Thursday, August 7: the Oral Health program Friday, August 8: Office of Racial and Cultural Health Equity (ORCHE) Saturday, August 9: Children’s Health

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BELLEVILLE — A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Christine Rejniak, a Belleville-area woman facing significant medical challenges after a cancer diagnosis, according to organizer Ashley R. Christine Rejniak, described by Ashley as a devoted mother, sister, daughter and wife, has been recognized for her selflessness and dedication to her family and community. Ashley said Rejniak has cared for their grandmother and father following strokes, managed a company overseeing hundreds of properties, and regularly provided food, furniture, jobs and donations to those in need. The fundraiser aims to assist with Rejniak’s medical expenses, potential loss of income and other hospital bills during what Ashley called “a very scary time.” Ashley encouraged contributions of any amount, including messages of support. On July 30, 2025, Ashley provided an update on Rejniak’s condition, stating that she will require surgery, radiation and intravenous chemotherapy.

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