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SPRINGFIELD – Eleven individuals and organizations have been recognized as 2025 outstanding volunteers of the year for their contributions to conservation on behalf of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). “IDNR is thankful to have so many wonderfully dedicated volunteers and support groups that help maintain and promote state parks, historic sites, the Illinois State Museum, outdoor safety, and conservation projects,” IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie said. “I’m pleased to recognize their extraordinary work and the sacrifices they make for the benefit of the people of Illinois.” The 2025 IDNR outstanding volunteers of the year are: Harl Jones, Highland – Harl Jones has been a dedicated volunteer at Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site in Menard County since 2012. He is most often found in the church and schoolhouse, where he brings 1830s church services and education to life for visitors. He also plays a pivotal

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today, as part of a bipartisan coalition of 47 state attorneys general, called on major search engines and payment platforms to take stronger action against the growing spread of computer-generated deepfake nonconsensual intimate imagery (NCII), commonly known as “deepfakes.” In a letter to search engines , the coalition outlines the failures of these companies to limit the creation of deepfakes and calls for stronger safeguards – such as warnings and redirecting users away from harmful content – to better protect the public. In a separate letter to payment platforms , the coalition urges these companies to take bolder action to protect the public by identifying and removing payment authorization for deepfake NCII content. “Deepfake nonconsensual intimate imagery causes real harm,” Raoul said. “In particular, AI-generated child pornography is an increasing concern, as it is used by predators t

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O’FALLON – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that the ramp from eastbound Interstate 64 to northbound Illinois 158 in St. Clair County will be closed overnight Wednesday, Aug. 27, and Thursday, Aug. 28, weather permitting. The closure will begin at 5:30 p.m. each night to allow for road construction. The ramp will reopen by 6:30 a.m. the following mornings, Thursday, Aug. 28, and Friday, Aug. 29. 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 on GettingAroundIllinois.com .

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SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 328 into law, legislation that will greatly increase frivolous lawsuits, into law. State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) says the bill is not good for the business climate in Illinois. “Illinois is struggling with population loss and job growth, and this law will impede economic development even more,” Schmidt said. “This bill was passed despite not following the procedures outlined in the House Rules. This bill penalizes businesses, stifles investment, and fuels a legal climate that welcomes frivolous lawsuits. I stand with the job creators in our state who have taken a strong position against this bill.” SB328 is being challenged by House Republicans in the Sangamon County Circuit Court following a lawsuit. They claim the “gut-and-replace” maneuver was used to push the bill forward on the last day of the spring 2025 Legislative Session which violates the Illinois Constitution’s

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ST. LOUIS — Two critically endangered Amur leopard cubs were born on Aug. 13, 2025, at the Saint Louis Zoo. The births mark an important contribution to the population of one of the most endangered big cats in the world with only about 100 remaining in the wild. This is the second litter for 7-year-old parents Dot and Samson. Dot and the cubs are doing well and bonding in their private, indoor maternity den. It will be several months before the leopard family makes a public debut at the age when cubs would naturally leave the den with their mother. Samson can be seen by Zoo guests in his habitat at Big Cat Country. “As a second-time mom, Dot knows exactly what to do,” said Julie Hartell-DeNardo, Saint Louis Zoo Kevin Beckmann Curator of Carnivores. “Every Amur leopard birth is critical for the survival of this rare species. Our team is incredibly grateful to see mom and cubs doing so well so quickly." The first few months of life are critical for newborn

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ALTON - OSF St. Anthony’s is starting a Child Connections: CBT Skills therapy group for kids ages 9 through 11. This group will meet from 3:45–4:45 p.m. on Mondays at the OSF St. Anthony’s Psychological Services Department. This group will focus on the link between emotions, thoughts and actions using a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) model. “The group is meant to use time together in a group to talk about emotions and how do we regulate them, using CBT as a model,” explained Lisa Lawrence, LCSW. “CBT is like scientific curiosity about what is going on in our mind and body, kind of like how we feel about something affects how we think about it affects our behaviors.” Lawrence, who will oversee the group alongside Staci Knox, LCSW, explained that the aim is to help kids who might be experiencing “negative outcome behaviors” to learn tools and strategies to better handle their emotions. She pointed to “emotional

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Did you know that nearly 60% of travelers report discovering their favorite attractions within a two-hour drive from home? Yet, many overlook the treasures in their own backyard, missing out on unique experiences and rich local history. Planning a day trip to explore local landmarks offers an accessible, rewarding way to connect with your community, learn something new, and enjoy a refreshing change of pace without the hassle of long-distance travel. Identifying Landmarks Worth Visiting Before setting out, the first step is to determine which local landmarks are worth your time. Landmarks can include historical sites, architectural marvels, natural wonders, or cultural institutions that reflect the identity of the area. Research and Resources: Start by consulting local tourism websites, visitor centers, or historical societies. Many cities and towns maintain curated lists of “must-see” landmarks. For example, Philadelphia’s local tourism board highlights Independence

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August 27 has witnessed some truly remarkable moments throughout history. First and foremost, the eruption of Krakatoa in Indonesia stands out as one of the most catastrophic volcanic events in recorded history. On August 27, 1883, after weeks of rumbling, the volcano’s climax sent shockwaves heard thousands of miles away. The explosion was so intense it destroyed over two-thirds of the island, triggered massive tsunamis, and released an estimated 20 cubic kilometers of volcanic debris into the atmosphere. The immediate death toll was staggering, with over 36,000 people perishing due to the eruption and the resulting tsunamis. Beyond the human tragedy, Krakatoa’s eruption had far-reaching climatic effects. The volcanic ash and sulfur dioxide injected into the stratosphere caused global temperatures to drop by as much as 1.2 degrees Celsius over the following years, leading to vivid sunsets and unusual weather patterns worldwide. This event profoundly influenced scientific

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EDWARDSVILLE — The Edwardsville Fire Department responded to a structure fire Tuesday evening, Aug. 26, 2025, in the 500 block of Chapman Street, where heavy black smoke was visible from the eaves upon arrival. Firefighters requested a box alarm to assist with the blaze, prompting additional support from Glen Carbon and Wood River fire departments. During the response, crews encountered a non-functioning fire hydrant and had to connect to an alternate hydrant to access water. Troy EMS and Collinsville Fire Department provided coverage for the Edwardsville Fire Station while the crews were on scene. Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control quickly, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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BLACK JACK, Mo. — St. Louis Regional Bomb and Arson Unit detectives' preliminary investigation revealed that natural gas was a factor in the residential explosion that occurred in the 13800 block of Evan Aire Drive on Monday, August 25, 2025. At 9:13 a.m. on August 25, 2025, the Black Jack Fire Protection District and North County Precinct officers responded to reports of a house explosion in the 13800 block of Evan Aire Drive. Upon arrival, first responders found five homes engulfed in flames and approximately 20 additional residences sustained damage. Residents in the area were evacuated as fire officials from several agencies worked to extinguish the fires. The investigation so far does not indicate any criminal activity or foul play. Five victims were located at the scene. An 18-year-old male was transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. An adult female was also taken to a hospital for non-life-threatening injuries and later released. Two other

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MACOUPIN COUNTY – Attorney General Kwame Raoul charged a Virden, Illinois man with dissemination of child sexual abuse material. The case is part of Raoul’s ongoing work, in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies and local law enforcement officials throughout Illinois, to apprehend offenders who download and trade child sexual abuse material online. The Attorney General’s office charged Jeffrey A. Bates, 28, in Macoupin County Circuit Court with three counts of Class X felony dissemination of child pornography, each punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Sentences are ultimately determined by the court. Bates is currently detained at the Macoupin County Jail. “Children who survive exploitation can face a lifetime of trauma, which is why we must help them receive justice by holding the offenders who commit these horrific crimes accountable,” Raoul said. “I will continue to work with state and local authorities to ensure these individuals

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GRAFTON - Raging Rivers WaterPark is proud to honor the dedication and service of local heroes with the 5th Annual First Responders Weekend, taking place Saturday, August 30th through Monday, September 1st. As a special thank-you, all EMTs, Paramedics, Firefighters, and Police Officers will receive FREE park admission available at the gate with valid ID or badge. This special offer applies to the First Responder only. “Our first responders are the backbone of our communities,” said Jeremy Hayes, General Manager of Raging Rivers WaterPark. “Their bravery and selflessness deserve recognition, and this weekend is our way of saying thank you. We invite them to relax, enjoy, and make memories with family and friends.” The waterpark is open for two more weekends. Be sure to splash into the fun one last time — the 2025 Season officially wraps up on Sunday, September 7th. For park details and hours, visit www.RagingRivers.com .

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EAST ST. LOUIS — One lucky Illinois Lotto player is starting the week $14.6 million richer after matching all six numbers in the Monday, August 25, Lotto drawing. This is the largest Lotto jackpot won in 2025, surpassing a $10.4 million prize awarded on February 8. The winning ticket was sold at Crown Mart, located at 306 E. Broadway in East Saint Louis, Illinois. The winning Lotto numbers were: 5-9-14-18-22-23. “Our phone has been ringing off the hook with customers calling to congratulate us for selling the jackpot-winning Lotto ticket,” said Ed Hamed, store manager. “In my nine years managing this location, this is the biggest winning ticket we’ve ever sold. We are thrilled for the winner and couldn’t be more excited.” For selling the winning ticket, Crown Mart will receive a bonus of $146,000, one percent of the prize amount. When asked what he plans to do with the bonus, Hamed shared, “We’ll put it back into the business—remodel

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EDWARDSVILLE - Jack Kirgan was one of the leading scorers for the Edwardsville High boys soccer team in 2024, and as he gets ready to start his senior season in 2025, he's feeling confident of more success for himself and the Tigers. In an interview conducted on Aug. 18, 2025, before an evening practice at Tiger Stadium, Kirgan felt that the team was looking very good in preseason practice, and felt the Tigers could have another successful season ahead. "I think things have gone really well so far," Kirgan said. "I think we have a good idea of what we're going to look like so far this year, and a good idea of who's going to be role players on the team. I feel really confident going into the season. I feel like we've got a really good group of guys, really good chemistry all together, and we've been able to explore through that so far this preseason." He is a Spencer Homes Male Athlete of the Month for the Tigers. Kirgan is indeed very confident as the Tigers open their season on

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EDWARDSVILLE - Savannah Ford, along with Ciara Cunningham, are the only two seniors who'll play for the Edwardsville girls volleyball team this coming season, and both are very excited for the season to get underway on Sept. 2, 2025, at home against Belleville West. Last fall, Ford had a very good season statistically for the Tigers, serving up 174 points and an astonishing 53 aces, along with 17 kills, 483 offensive assists and two defensive assists, two blocks, and 161 digs as the Tigers wound up with a 23-14 record, being eliminated by Belleville West in the IHSA Class 4A regional final at Liberty Middle School. As preseason practice continued, Ford felt things had been going very well for the Tigers in the workouts, and she thinks the Tigers will be ready for a big season. Savannah is a Spencer Homes Female Athlete of the Month for the Tigers. "Things have been going well," Ford said. "It's different, having only two seniors this year, but I kind of like it, because we spli

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ALTON - You can win a reserved four-person table at the Alton Jazz and Wine Festival. The festival kicks off at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, at the Alton Amphitheater. The reserved four-person table, valued at $120, will be given to one lucky winner. The winner will be randomly selected at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 28, and notified by email, with 24 hours to claim the table. There are a limited number of two-person and four-person tables available on the amphitheater stage. Amphitheater Commission Chair Dan Herkert emphasized the exclusive, intimate feel of the reserved tables, comparing it to a jazz club. “We really hit on something a few years ago when we came up with the idea for the jazz bistro style seating up on the stage,” he explained. “It’s intimate. It’s up close and personal with the artists.” Held annually, the Jazz and Wine Festival celebrates jazz music and Alton’s reputation as Miles Davis’s birthplace. Thi

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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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