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As winter weather continues to impact the region, the Illinois Department of Transportation is closely monitoring changing conditions across various counties. Joe Monroe, an engineer with the department, reported late Sunday morning, Jan. 5, 2025, that in the last 45 minutes, snowfall has begun to accumulate significantly in the metro area, with a transition zone stretching from Illinois Route 143 to the south. Monroe noted that while areas north of Illinois Route 15 are predominantly experiencing snow, conditions shift rapidly south of that line, where a mix of sleet and freezing rain is prevalent. "In southern Monroe and Randolph counties, freezing rain is becoming the predominant precipitation type, leading to slick roadways," he said. Monroe emphasized that the combination of sleet and freezing rain is complicating plowing efforts, as the accumulation of ice is occurring faster than the department can manage. In St. Clair County, Monroe observed that the northern areas are experiencing

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PONTOON BEACH - Madison County Transit (MCT) has suspended all service on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, due to winter weather and deteriorating conditions. The decision to halt operations was made to ensure the safety of both riders and transit personnel as severe weather impacts the region, Amanda Villocco-Smith, Director of IT and Planning for Madison County Transit, said. Service updates will be provided in real-time through MCT Text Alerts and the agency’s official Facebook page. Riders are encouraged to monitor these platforms for the latest information regarding service resumption. For further inquiries, Madison County Transit can be reached at their office located at 1 Transit Way, Pontoon Beach, Illinois, or by calling 618-797-4600. The agency’s website also offers additional rider information at 618-797-4636. Updated service information will be provided in real time via MCT Text Alerts and MCT’s Facebook page.

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EDWARDSVILLE - Senior guard Bryce Pryor had a big game on Jan. 2, 2025, as he hit for a pair of key threes in both the third and fourth quarters in helping Edwardsville to a 47-39 win over Dieterich at Lucco-Jackson Gym in the team's first game since winning the Don Maurer Holiday Invitational Tournament on Dec 30 over Ladue Horton Watkins 71-69 at Mary Institute-Country Day School. Pryor is a Spencer Homes Male Athlete of the Month for the Tigers. Pryor ended up with 16 points to lead all scorers in the game, and has hit a number of key threes and baskets in helping the Tigers to a 12-1 record at the unofficial halfway point of the season. In 10 appearances thus far, Pryor had averaged 7.8 points and 2.9 rebounds-per-games, and has also added 30 assists, 19 steals. and one blocked shot in his stat line. Moreover, he's providing much leadership to the Tigers in their early success so far. After the game against the Movin' Maroons, Pryor said he's very happy with how the seasons

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A winter storm impacting the Midwest is expected to bring significant snowfall and sleet to the region, with forecasts predicting accumulations from 6-10 inches of snow Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, and ice in some areas. The National Weather Service (NWS) in St. Louis reports that the storm began overnight and continued into the morning, primarily affecting the Metro East area. Illinois Department of Transporation Engineer Joe Monroe said his reports showed Alton and Godfrey were reportedly receiving strong stong snow in the 11 a.m. range Sunday. More will come from Monroe in a separate story about IDOT's work. Belleville also had reports of strong snow in that hour. Maryville was receiving a mixture of snow and ice around 12:15 p.m. Sunday. As of early afternoon, the National Weather Service in St. Louis Meteorologist Jared Maples indicated that the Metro area could see around 6 inches of a mix of snow and sleet, while areas just north of Interstate 70 are likely to experience primarily

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Area businesses and churches are closed on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, due to the winter weather in our area. CLOSED Sunday - Businesses Nautilus Fitness Center will be closing at noon East Alton American Legion Post 794 Gateway Arch Bakers and Hale El Mezcal Restaurant ATT Store (Alton) EXO Nail (Edwardsville) Bluff City Grill Lambert Airport (Delays and Cancellations) Duke Bakery Edwardsville YMCA Grafton Winery The Vineyards Dillards (South County Mall) Dillards St. Clair Square (Fairview Heights) Dillards (St. Louis Galleria) Geno's 140 Club Germania Brew Haus Hayner Public Library - all locations Heaterz Sports Tap Mac's Pizza and Poker - Godfrey Maeva's Coffee - Alton MCT Transit - Pontoon Beach Mississippi Mud Pottery - Alton Mister Donut - Godfrey Old Bakery Beer Wood River Rec Center Roper's Regal Beagle Senior Services Plus Wellness Center - Alton Shivers Frozen Custard - Godfrey Wood River Public Library St. Louis

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TROY - A man from Troy with a history of burglary convictions faces new charges in his latest burglary case involving a residence and two vehicles. Chase R. Clark, 28, of Troy, was charged with one count of residential burglary (a Class 1 felony) and two counts of burglary (both Class 3 felonies) on Dec. 17, 2024. The day prior on Dec. 16, 2024, Clark allegedly entered a Collinsville residence without authority and with the intent to commit a theft, according to court documents. He was additionally charged with burglarizing two vehicles, including a 2016 GMC Terrain and 2014 Nissan Altima. According to a petition to deny his pretrial release, Clark was identified on Ring home surveillance video entering the victims’ garage. They told authorities both vehicles in their garage had been “tampered with,” and also reported a bicycle missing. The petition notes Clark has prior convictions of burglary from both Madison and Macoupin Counties. Among the other prior

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ALTON - With the 2025 lame duck session set to begin this weekend, State Senator Erica Harriss stopped by “Our Daily Show!” with C.J. Nasello to reflect on the past year. Harriss noted that 2024 was her second year in office, and she said it was “awesome.” With her recent induction to the Women in Technology Task Force and her continued push for a property tax freeze for seniors, she has stayed busy throughout her first term and looks ahead to a positive future. “Really, we had a great, effective year number two,” she said. “It continues to be an honor to be able to represent people in our district. It’s great being in Springfield, but I love being back in the district and just being able to connect with people and groups and organizations and hear what’s important to you.” Harriss emphasized that most of her initiatives come from the people she represents. She pointed to Rusty Wheat as an example, a local ma

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that St. Clair and Washington counties will receive $89.5 million in federal disaster aid to support recovery efforts following mid-July’s string of severe storms and tornadoes. The funding, which was included in December’s end-of-year government spending bill, will be administered through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). “I was proud to support legislation that provides disaster relief to the people of St. Clair and Washington counties following last summer’s devastating storms,” said Bost. “This funding will be critical in rebuilding existing infrastructure and bolstering defenses against future storms and flooding. At a time when folks are working to restore their damaged homes and communities, I’m glad they will have the resources necessary to speed the process along.”

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ST. LOUIS - Taking MetroLink or MetroBus even a day or two a week saves commuters money on gas, maintenance and parking – it also helps them stay active and reduce stress. Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT), in partnership with St. Clair County Transit District, has therefore launched a new initiative encouraging area commuters to consider taking transit in the new year. The goal of the “Make Transit Your Ride in 2025” campaign is to connect with those new to the safe, integrated public transit system and show them how they can take advantage of CMT’s FREE Try & Ride program that provides personalized route information, helpful resources and complimentary transit tickets. Registration is available at www.CMT-STL.org . “Transit is a great consideration for those looking to save money, increase exercise and reduce stress in the new year,” said Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “Research shows transit users

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Confidence is not easily acquired but once gained you can continue to embellish it and let the legend grow. For anyone who knows me, Bob Gibson is my hero and the greatest sports star ever born. I always talk about him and these quotes best sum up my thoughts. "Hank Aaron told me never to mess with Bob Gibson," former Astros manager Dusty Baker said. "I was told never to stare at him, talk to, or smile at him. And if he hit you with a pitch, I was told never to charge the mound, because he would beat your ass. "I hated the All-Star Game," Gibson said years after retirement. "I hated having to talk to guys that I spent the rest of the season trying to kick their ass. They were the enemy to me." Gibson was a boxer before he played baseball. He knew what he was capable of and with that confidence, he could be a mentally free man and dominate his opponents. Any sign of retaliation was viewed as motivation for Bob. Reflecting on 2024, confidence has finally remerged in my life. Ephesians

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January 5th has seen a multitude of significant events throughout history, marking it as a day of change, innovation, and reflection. One of the most notable happenings on January 5th was in 1919, when the German Workers' Party, which would later evolve into the National Socialist German Workers' Party (Nazi Party), held its first public meeting in Munich. This event marked the beginning of a political party that would drastically alter the course of history, leading to World War II and the Holocaust. The implications of this party's rise to power are still felt today, making this day a critical moment in the 20th century. Fast forward to 1959, when the United States launched its first successful satellite, Explorer 1, into orbit. This event was crucial in the context of the Space Race, highlighting the advancements in technology and science during the Cold War. Explorer 1 provided significant data about cosmic rays, marking the beginning of the U.S. space program's commitment

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GRANITE CITY - The Rotary Club of Granite City recognized juniors Kaylee Hobbs and Grace Walker as Students of the Month for December. Students were nominated by teachers, and were chosen on the basis of academics, as well as scholastic, extracurricular and civic honors and awards, and organization membership and leadership. Each honoree will receive a framed certificate and a gift card , and will be recognized at the Mayor's Prayer Breakfast on March 25, 2025. KAYLEE HOBBS Three-year varsity cheerleader ... High Honor Roll ... Secondary Honors ... Saturday Scholars ... Member of Renaissance Club, Spirit Club, Varsity Club and Working Warriors ... GC Little Braves Volunteer Coach ... Peer Tutor ... Wilson Park Trash Clean up volunteer ... Daughter of Tiffany Kimmel. GRACE WALKER Three-year varsity cheerleader ... Secondary Honors ... Member of Foreign Language Club, Photography Club, Spirit Club and Varsity Club ... GC Little Braves Volunteer Coach ... Pee

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SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced that a number of new laws and rules designed to strengthen the public health system will go into effect on New Year's Day, January 1, 2025. “The Illinois Department of Public Health is excited to see new laws and rules go into effect this New Year to improve the health of Illinois’s public,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “We appreciate the leadership of Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois General Assembly and the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) in advancing solutions that protect our residents and make our Illinois communities healthier.” One of the key changes taking effect with the new year is a more stringent standard for public health intervention based on the results of testing of blood lead levels in children. Under Illinois law, any child residing in a high-risk ZIP code is to be tested automatically at 12, 24, and 36 months, and all children six years

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GRANITE CITY - A Granite City resident has been granted pretrial release from custody after committing domestic battery against an elderly victim. John N. Rushing Jr., 42, of Granite City, was charged on Dec. 27, 2024 with aggravated battery (a Class 3 felony) and domestic battery (a Class A misdemeanor). Descriptions of the charges state that on Dec. 22, 2024, Rushing struck the victim, a household or family member, “about the face with a closed fist. He reportedly knew the victim was 60 years of age or older at the time of the incident. Rushing’s criminal history dating back to 2001 includes several prior charges, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, battery, burglary, property damage, and much more. Court documents note Rushing is also currently on parole in Illinois. The Granite City Police Department acted as the arresting agency in this case. Rushing was granted pretrial release from custody with additional conditions, including that he have

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COLLINSVILLE – Improvements in the resiliency of its natural gas delivery infrastructure and upgrades to its underground storage capabilities ensure that Ameren Illinois is ready for a blast of arctic temperatures forecast in the Midwest early next week. Natural gas is the primary fuel source used by nearly 1 million Ameren Illinois customers to heat homes and power appliances in the winter. "The investments we have made to strengthen our pipelines, along with having an abundant supply of gas already purchased and available for delivery, ensures that we will be able to meet the expected increase in demand that comes when temperatures drop," said Lenny Singh, Chairman and President of Ameren Illinois. The company owns and operates 12 underground storage fields, capable of safely storing 24.2 billion cubic feet of natural gas. Ameren Illinois also leases an additional 15.3 billion cubic feet of gas from fields located outside of Illinois. The storage fields serve three primary

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GODFREY - Fifteen members of the Godfrey Women’s Club dedicated their afternoon recently to ringing bells for the Salvation Army kettles outside Schnucks in Godfrey. This event for the Godfrey Women's Club is part of the club's ongoing commitment to community service, which includes various projects throughout the year. Among those participating in the photo above on that day were Eileen Aimone, Becky Areford, Sharon Wild, and Tanya Sisk, who joined their fellow club members in raising funds for the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army kettles, a familiar sight during the holiday season, are a key fundraising initiative for the organization, which provides assistance to those in need. The Godfrey Women’s Club, known for its dedication to community betterment, regularly engages in service projects aimed at supporting local initiatives. In a statement, the club said the bell-ringing event is one of many activities the club organizes to contribute positively to the Godfrey

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ALTON - With a cold snap on the horizon, The Salvation Army at 525 Alby Street in Alton will act as a warming center during the day. Captain Cassy Grey explained that The Salvation Army (TSA) will be open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the upcoming week to support folks who need shelter from the elements. Community members who are experiencing homelessness or who need a warm place to go are encouraged to stop by TSA. “We will have a warm place for our friends to get out of the cold, along with some coffee and, while supplies last, we’ll have some snacks available,” Grey said. “We’re doing the very best we can to wrap around the marginalized.” Grey noted that TSA works with the Overnight Warming Locations to provide shelter during these cold months. The Overnight Warming Locations open when the overnight temperatures are forecasted to drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. On these days, TSA will often stay open until 5 p.m. so folks can spend

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ALTON - On a recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust, Kidada Miller shared how God has led her through challenges and given her peace. Miller is an entrepreneur, and she serves as the founder and president of K. Miller Foundation and the Midwest Best of Black Awards Gala. In all her work, she tries to give back to the community and support other entrepreneurs and Black business owners. Her faith helps her in this work, and she relies on God’s guidance. “Being seated at His feet is the only place I’ve found peace,” she said. “I’m known to be a little extra. So when people see me, they just see this extra person. But you don’t see me when I’m seated at His feet and my face is fully wet and I’ve got a towel down because I’m just blubbering and crying everywhere. That’s the moment to get that out, and then you put that suit back on and walk outside with the utmost confidence.”

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When a snowstorm strikes, being prepared can make all the difference in keeping you safe and comfortable. Here’s a list of 10 essential items to have on hand to weather the storm with confidence. 1. Non-Perishable Food Stock up on canned goods, dry snacks, and instant meals that don’t require refrigeration. In case of a power outage, these foods will keep you nourished. Don’t forget a manual can opener! 2. Bottled Water Aim for at least one gallon of water per person per day. This covers drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene if pipes freeze or water services are disrupted. 3. Flashlights and Batteries Power outages are common during snowstorms. Keep multiple flashlights ready with spare batteries. Avoid relying solely on candles, as they can pose a fire hazard. 4. Warm Blankets and Clothing Layer up with thermal blankets, heavy-duty sleeping bags, and extra warm clothing like socks, gloves, and hats. This is especially important if your heating system

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GODFREY - The Public Works Department has approximately 150 miles of road and street to clear in a hazardous weather event. Depending on the timing of the event, it may be necessary to have snow removal as quickly as possible. As such, the residents can help the snow removal process by making sure vehicles and other obstructions are off the thoroughfares in a weather event. In the past, crews have not been able to clear a street because vehicles were prohibiting access into the area. Crews will work to clear the passageways as quickly as possible. Please understand that removing piles of snow from mailboxes and driveways is usually not possible. Patience is appreciated…

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