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GRANITE CITY - A Granite City man and New York resident both face felony charges for financially exploiting elderly victims in two separate but similar cases filed on the same day. Richard W. Hoffmeister Jr., 64, of Medina, N.Y., was charged with two Class 1 felony counts of financial exploitation of an elderly person or a person with a disability. He was also charged with a Class 1 felony count of theft. For over two years from Sept. 1, 2020 to Dec. 1, 2022, Hoffmeister allegedly obtained over $15,000 from an elderly victim over 70 years of age “while standing in a position of trust and confidence” with them, according to court documents. In a separate case, Brian F. Griffith, 45, of Granite City, was also charged with two counts of financial exploitation of an elderly person or person with a disability, both Class 1 felonies. He was also charged with theft, a Class 2 felony, and wire fraud, a Class 3 felony. Griffith reportedly financially exploited a different

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O'FALLON - New and expectant mothers in O’Fallon, Illinois, will have the opportunity to gain valuable resources on pregnancy and parenting at the upcoming “Bundles for Babies” community baby shower. The event is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, in the lobby of HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. Hosted by the hospital's Women and Infants Center, the event aims to provide educational resources for new and expectant moms and their families. Amanda Schaefer, the Nurse Manager of the Women and Infants Center, along with the care team, will lead the initiative, which includes participation from representatives of The Doula Lab, Heartland Women’s Healthcare, the Pregnancy Care Center, SLU Family Medicine, and Scott Air Force Base. Attendees will have access to information on a range of topics, including lactation services, safe sleep practices for infants, and car seat safety. The event will also cover pain management options during

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HARDIN - On Sept. 8, 2024, the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office responded to a burglary complaint near the intersection of Geske Hollow and Blue Ridge in Hardin. The investigation began promptly after the initial report, which led to further developments in the case. The following day, deputies received another report regarding a suspicious vehicle in the same area. Upon investigation, it was determined that the vehicle had been stolen and abandoned. The Sheriff's Office processed both crime scenes and continued an intensive investigation into the incidents. As a result of their efforts, an arrest warrant was issued on Sept. 27, 2024, for 43-year-old Charles “Joey” Mielke of Hardin. Mielke faces several charges, including burglary, possession of a stolen motor vehicle, theft, criminal damage to property, and criminal trespass to a building. At the time of these offenses, he was on Pre-Trial Release for multiple other charges under the provisions of the SAFE-T Act, also

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RIVERBEND - The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and Dream Home Charities are asking for the community’s help to make sure local foster kids have a merry Christmas. Sherry Gilleland, owner of Dream Home Realty Centre and founder of Dream Home Charities, provides Christmas gifts to 25 families and 85 foster kids across five local counties. But on Dec. 12, 2024, she was delivering gifts to DCFS when she discovered the tailgate of her truck was down, and she had lost hundreds of gifts along the road. Gilleland shared that donations were already low this year, and they struggled to get the toys, clothing, sanitary products and other gifts that families and kids asked for. She is devastated by the loss. Now, DCFS and Dream Home Charities are asking the community to do what they can to help out. “We couldn’t do what we do without the community and our family and our friends,” Gilleland said. “I’m very blessed that we do have our

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EDWARDSVILLE – With the holiday season around the corner, the Edwardsville police have joined forces with the Illinois Department of Transportation for the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High, Get a DUI” enforcement campaign to ensure that festive gatherings don’t end in tragedy. From Dec. 13 through Jan. 2, 2024, law enforcement agencies across Illinois will adopt a zero-tolerance policy for impaired driving to keep our roads safe. “This season, let’s make safety our shared priority,” said Lt. Brandn Whittaker. “If you plan to drink or use impairing substances, plan ahead for a sober ride home. Driving impaired isn’t just dangerous – it’s unacceptable. We’ll be out in full force, and no excuses will be accepted.” The Edwardsville police urge everyone to take the following simple steps to prevent impaired driving: Plan ahead: Designate a sober driver, use public transportation or

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JERSEYVILLE — Four student-athletes from Jersey Community High School have been recognized for their outstanding performance in soccer, earning Mississippi Valley All-Conference honors. Brady Maxeiner, Dax Gotten, Christian Dugger, and Dylan Molloy were acknowledged for their contributions during the season. In addition to their conference honors, all four players have been named Sparklight Male Athletes of the Month, highlighting their achievements both on and off the field. The recognition reflects their dedication and performance during the soccer season at Jersey Community High School. Maxeiner, a junior, secured a spot on the first team as a goalie, demonstrating his skills with an average of 11.6 saves per match. Senior Dax Goetten earned a second-team forward designation after scoring nine goals throughout the season. Meanwhile, both Dugger and Molloy received honorable mentions for their roles as defenders. Goetten also contributed 21 points.

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WASHINGTON, DC — This week, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) celebrated key local and national priorities passed in the National Defense Authorization Act, including pay raises for service members, bringing military boot production back to America, funding to secure our telecommunications infrastructure and support for the iFAB Tech Hub at the University of Illinois. The legislation now heads to the United States Senate for consideration. “Our service members risk their lives every day to keep us safe and defend our freedoms. This pay raise is both a well-deserved recognition of their sacrifice and a way to support our troops facing the rising cost of living,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “I am also encouraged by the inclusion of funding for key priorities I have long advocated for, such as securing our telecommunications infrastructure, supporting the iFAB Tech Hub and bringing military boot manufacturing back to American soil - including in Belleville,

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CHICAGO - On Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program team, the Illinois Department of Transportation, and local leadership to celebrate the Biden-Harris administration’s recognition of Illinois as a major transportation hub for the United States via two grant awards. Previously announced in October, the awards from U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), totaling $290 million, will accelerate improvements to the 75th Street Corridor Improvement Project (CIP). “Illinois is the largest rail center in the entire nation – playing a vital role in the flow of goods and commerce across the nation,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Today, we take another step forward in our pursuit towards stronger infrastructure through a historic federal investment in our railways – brought to us by the Biden-Harris administration and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs

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WOOD RIVER - Three have been apprehended from an incident that started at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Wood River. Wood River Police Chief Brad Wells said Tyler Cunningham and Brooke Wiegand allegedly texted a person who live inside a home in the 100 block of Main in Wood River. One of those charged allegedly texted a person who lived in the home on Main Street in Wood River and asked him to come outside. When the man came outside, Cunningham allegedly pulled a gun on him and attempted to take property away, Chief Wells said. After the incident, the pair fled the scene in a vehicle and the vehicle was spotted in the 100 block of Bonds in East Alton, where they were eventually taken into custody. Because of the displayed weapon, the Illinois Law Enforcement System (ILEAS) Tactical Response team was called to assist Wood River and East Alton Police. Cunningham, 22, has been charged with Attempted Armed Robbery and Unlawful Possession of Weapons by a Felon. Wiegand, 20

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ALTON - A three-year, $150,000 agreement for Alton to host the Alton Midwest Nationals F1 Powerboat Championship for the next three years is back up for consideration after being laid over last week. As first reported on Riverbender.com , the Alton Committee of the Whole previously laid over an agreement which would see the boat-racing spectacle return to the Alton riverfront for 2025, 2026, and 2027. That agreement now appears on the agenda for the committee meeting next Monday, Dec. 16, 2024. Also on the agenda is a presentation from Cory Jobe of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau and Tim Seebold of Seebold Sports Inc., the company producing the race. Under the Public Comment portion of Monday’s meeting, Rob Honke of the Alton Marina has signed up to speak “in favor of F1 Powerboat Races this summer.” If approved by the committee and City Council, an entire weekend’s worth of events would run from Friday, July 18 to Sunday, July 20, 2025 for

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ST. LOUIS – Prosecutors have charged 26-year-old Garrett Jordan with multiple offenses, including first-degree murder, in connection with the fatal shooting of 16-year-old Colin Brown on Interstate 55 in St. Louis last month. Charges were filed by the St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office on Friday morning, Dec. 13, 2024. Colin Brown, of the O'Fallon, IL., area, was struck by a stray bullet late on Nov. 23, 2024, while riding in a vehicle with his father, returning home from a hockey game. The incident occurred near Loughborough Avenue as the family traveled along I-55. In addition to first-degree murder, Jordan faces three counts of armed criminal action, first-degree assault, and unlawful use of a weapon. Court documents did not specify whether Jordan has been taken into custody. Colin Brown was a student at Christian Brothers College High School in St. Louis County at the time of his death. Mayor Jones Issues Statement Following Arrest and Charges in the Death of Colin

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ALTON - Get into the holiday spirit while giving back to the community with live music, a visit from Santa, and more at the 10th annual “Tunes For Toys” toy drive and fundraiser this Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 at the Post Commons in Alton. The price of entry is either a new, unwrapped toy or a $10 cash donation. All toy donations will benefit Riverbend Family Ministries , while all cash donations will support Faces Not Forgotten . Attendees can visit with a very special guest, Santa Claus himself, from 5 to 7 p.m. They can also enjoy some free food courtesy of a donation from Decaro’s, but only while supplies last. The winners of this year’s “ Deck the Town! ” decorating contest will be announced at 5:30 p.m., with less than 24 hours left until the polls close . The evening’s live musical entertainment, a performance from Miss Jubilee, will begin at 7 p.m. Alton Odyssey Tours, one of the event’s local business sponsors,

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CHICAGO – Illinois Lottery players still have a chance to become mega-rich as the Mega Millions jackpot has hit a cool $670 million for tonight’s drawing. If won, this would be the eighth largest Mega Millions jackpot won in U.S. history. Two people have won a Mega Millions jackpot this year: In March a player in New Jersey won a life-changing $1.28 billion; and in June an Illinois Lottery player won an astonishing $552 million playing Mega Millions on the Illinois Lottery mobile app – the largest prize ever won by an online lottery player in the U.S. Throughout 2024, seven Illinois Lottery players have won prizes of $1 million or more with Mega Millions. Mega Millions is played every Tuesday and Friday night. Tickets are $2 each, and players can add the Megaplier for an additional $1 for the chance to multiply non-jackpot prizes.

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CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined IBM’s Chairman and CEO Arvind Krishna, University of Chicago President Paul Alivisatos, Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) CEO Harley Johnson, and industry stakeholders to announce the new National Quantum Algorithm Center. This groundbreaking Center will be fueled by IBM’s next-generation, modular quantum computer (“IBM Quantum System Two”), and will aim to advance the exploration of quantum-centric supercomputing across industries, furthering Illinois’ status as a leader in emerging technology and a global quantum computing capital. “We’re making Illinois the global quantum capital and the center for job growth in the quantum industry – a true center of innovation with the power to solve the world’s most pressing and complex challenges and create jobs and investment for our state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “The groundbreaking National Quantum Algorithm

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ALTON — After 45 years of service, the Alton Community Service League has announced the discontinuation of its popular gift-wrapping fundraiser at Alton Square Mall. Committee Chair Marge Ferguson cited rising material costs, declining foot traffic, and an aging membership as key factors in the decision. The gift-wrapping service, which has been a staple during the holiday season, has raised $214,769 over the years, all of which has been reinvested into community beautification and charitable projects. "Continuing this year will not be possible," Ferguson said, reflecting on the longstanding tradition that supported numerous local initiatives. Despite the end of the gift-wrapping service, the Alton Community Service League is committed to maintaining its support for local organizations through alternative fundraising efforts. In October, the League successfully hosted its second wine-tasting event at the Wood River Moose. Looking ahead, the organization is preparing for a

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As the holiday season approaches, the hustle and bustle can often lead to feelings of stress and overwhelm. Between shopping for gifts, attending family gatherings, and maintaining work responsibilities, it can be challenging to carve out time for self-care. However, prioritizing your well-being during this busy season is essential for both your physical and mental health. Here are some effective winter self-care tips to help you navigate the holidays with grace and ease. Embrace Mindfulness and Presence One of the most effective ways to manage holiday stress is by practicing mindfulness. This involves being present in the moment and acknowledging your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Practical Tips: Mindful Breathing: Take a few moments each day to focus on your breath. Inhale deeply for four counts, hold for four counts, and exhale for six counts. This simple exercise can help center your thoughts and reduce anxiety. Gratitude Journaling: Consider keeping a gratitude

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December 13 has been a significant day in history, marked by events that have shaped nations, cultures, and even the course of global politics. First, we turn to December 13, 2001, when the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution inviting all nations to observe December 13 as the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime. This day aims to raise awareness about the prevention of genocide, acknowledging the importance of remembering the atrocities of the past to prevent similar events in the future. This resolution underscores the global commitment to human rights and the importance of fostering a culture of peace and understanding among nations. On a lighter note, December 13, 1989, marked a significant cultural moment in music history. On this day, the iconic band The Beatles reunited for a special performance in New York City. This event brought together fans and music lovers from around

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EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024, that a former Pontoon Beach man convicted of first-degree murder in the cold-case killing of a woman who disappeared in 2013 has been sentenced to 35 years in prison. Roger Dale Sutton, 57, received the sentence Thursday in Circuit Court in Madison County. Sutton would be 92 before he’s eligible for release from prison. A jury in October found Sutton guilty of first-degree murder and concealment of a homicidal death. The jury found that he fatally beat and strangled Patrenia “Trina” Butler-Turner, who was 40 and had been a resident of East St. Louis. She was reported missing by her family in January 2013, after she failed to return from a trip to the store. The murder came to light in December 2022, when a nephew of Sutton entered the Pontoon Beach Police Department and made a report. He told police he had witnessed his uncle kill a woman nearly 10 years earlier,

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BETHALTO - Civic Memorial High junior Taylor Brooks has made significant strides in her girls cross-country performance during the 2024 season. Competing in the IHSA Class 2A Cross Country Girls Sectional at Jacksonville, Brooks finished 37th with a personal record time of 21:54.8. Earlier in the season, she secured 17th place at the Madison County Cross Country Championships for varsity small schools, completing the three-mile course in 23:35. Additionally, she recorded a time of 23:09.6 at the Mississippi Valley Conference Cross Country Meet. Brooks' dedication and improvement have not gone unnoticed, as she has been named the Tom Lane State Farm Insurance Female Athlete of the Month. Eagles' Head Cross Country Coach Jake Peal praised Brooks for her performance on Oct. 26, 2024, stating, "She ran a good race at the regional meet. All of our girls ran a season-best compared to the Twilight meet at CM." He highlighted her work ethic and commitment to the team, noting that she is

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ALTON - This Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, a dynamic duo of best friends and lifestyle/business coaches are hosting the perfect event for near-last-minute gift shoppers. Jama Fabry and Nikki Fiedler of the Bluff City Betties are welcoming the public to their “11th Hour Holiday Market” from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Milton Schoolhouse. In the Crystal Ballroom, attendees will find more than a dozen local vendors offering everything from gifts and gift wrapping to holiday apparel and more. Admission to the event is free. While Amazon remains a popular online destination for gift shopping, it doesn’t foster the personal or community connections of an event like the 11th Hour Holiday Market. Both “Betties” describe the event as “buying for your community, from your community.” “I don’t know Jeff Bezos … but I know Tammy with TLJ Rocks so personally,” Fiedler said. “Having these personal relationships wit

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