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EDWARDSVILLE — Two longtime Madison County employees were recently recognized for their service as they prepare for retirement. The Madison County Board honored Karon Wolfe, who retired Sept. 26, and Janis Hagnauer, who will retire Oct. 3, during its September board meeting. “Janis and Karon exemplify what public service is about,” Chairman Chris Slusser said. “Their commitment has made a lasting difference in the lives of residents and in the strength of our county government.” Wolfe, who retired Sept. 26, started with Madison County Community Development in the summer of 1989. As a planner, she guided residents through the process of finding safe and stable housing. Over the course of her career, she helped more than 2,000 individuals achieve homeownership in communities across the county. Her service reflected loyalty, passion for public service and a commitment to improving the lives of residents. Hagnauer began her career with the county

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CHICAGO – This week, Governor Pritzker hosted an event at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine with public health experts focused on critical public health priorities amid what Pritzker described as unprecedented misinformation and falsehoods coming from President Trump and U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. “We live in a time when the truth is harder to come by, and when your life or health are on the line, we need clear facts to make good decisions for ourselves and our families. With misinformation being spread at the highest levels of government, it’s more important than ever to ask your doctor if you have any questions,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “In the wake of the federal government ignoring science, the State of Illinois has taken action by issuing a statewide standing order to ensure vaccine supply, providing clear recommendations for seasonal vaccines, and endorsing science-based schedules

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ALTON - Alton Housing Authority properties are updating their security measures. There have been renewed conversations around safety following 17-year-old Shabrya Hudson’s shooting death in July 2025 at Oakwood Estates. Alton Housing Authority (AHA) Executive Director Gregory Denton shared that AHA works closely with the Alton Police Department to monitor cameras and patrol the properties, and they will continue to collaborate with residents to promote safety. “The Alton Housing Authority takes resident safety very seriously,” Denton said. “We have taken every measure to proactively protect our developments and make sure these neighborhoods are safe, stable places for our residents to call home.” Denton noted that current security measures include camera systems in Oakwood Estates and Alton Acres. AHA plans to install cameras in Alton Manor in the coming months. The existing camera systems have been upgraded within the last two years, and they

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NEW CANTON - Residents of New Canton in Pike County are urged to stay inside while law enforcement responds to “an active situation.” On Thursday morning, Oct. 2, 2025, community members were told that law enforcement officers were present in New Canton. The Pike County Sheriff’s Department asked residents to remain indoors and await further updates. “Officers are in the area and actively working to bring this matter to a safe resolution,” the Pike County Sheriff’s Department said in a Facebook post . Nearby schools are reportedly on lockdown while the situation unfolds. This is a developing story. More information will be provided.

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ALTON - St. Mary’s will once again host their annual Oktoberfest. From Oct. 10–12, 2025, community members can stop by St. Mary’s Church in downtown Alton for three days of fun and community, featuring inflatables, games, live music, auctions, a 5K, bingo, free beer and more. The event serves as a fundraiser for St. Mary’s Church and school while bringing people together for a fun weekend. “We want everyone to feel like you’re part of the family,” said Ryan Downey, Oktoberfest chairperson. “We’re excited to have people show up and experience what we have to offer.” The fun starts on Friday night, Oct. 10, with a 5K or one-mile fun run at 6 p.m. DJ Dave will provide 5K entertainment, followed by the Glendale Riders from 7–11 p.m. on the main stage. The festival opens at 3 p.m. with games, inflatables, food, drinks and more. On Saturday, Oct. 11, grounds open at 1 p.m. with a keg-tapping on the main stage.

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Did you know that people who actively plan and anticipate enjoyable activities report higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction? Crafting a bucket list tailored for the fall season not only enhances your experiences but also encourages mindful engagement with your surroundings. Creating an ultimate fall bucket list goes beyond simply jotting down common autumn activities—it’s about curating meaningful moments that resonate personally and culturally. Defining What “Ultimate” Means for You Before compiling any list, it’s essential to clarify what makes a fall bucket list truly ultimate for you. Is it about adventure, relaxation, creativity, or connection? Understanding your motivations helps tailor the list to your interests and lifestyle. Self-reflection: Ask yourself what you want to gain from your fall experiences. Are you seeking new challenges, peaceful moments, or social gatherings? Balance: Consider mixing different types of activities—outdoor

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October 2 is a date marked by significant moments across the globe. Mahatma Gandhi’s Birth – 1869 Arguably the most globally recognized event on October 2 is the birth of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in 1869. Known as Mahatma Gandhi, he became the preeminent leader of the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule. Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance, or Satyagraha, inspired civil rights movements worldwide and remains a powerful symbol of peaceful protest to this day. His legacy is commemorated annually in India as Gandhi Jayanti, a national holiday, and internationally as the International Day of Non-Violence. The Introduction of the Euro in Physical Form – 2002 On October 2, 2002, the euro, the common currency of many European Union countries, was introduced in its physical form—coins and banknotes—replacing national currencies. This was a historic step toward European economic integration and has had far-reaching

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BELLEVILLE – Belleville residents are taking legal action in an attempt to stop 19 acres of woods from being cleared to build a solar farm at a historic cemetery. Last year, under former Mayor Patty Gregory, the City of Belleville purchased the historic Mount Hope Cemetery in foreclosure for $1 and entered into a lease agreement with solar developers to clear-cut 19 acres of woods at the cemetery to build a solar farm. Jesse Berger with the Save Mount Hope Committee started a Change.org petition to stop the city from following through with the solar farm project, as construction is expected to begin this month. He and other committee members have since launched a GoFundMe to raise money for legal fees as they challenge the city with a lawsuit recently filed in St. Clair County court. “The project will materially interfere with the sanctity of Mount Hope, the quality of our local environment, and the future of Belleville. Until the damage is done, there is still

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ALTON - Harriet C. Dolbee resigned as head librarian of the Jennie D. Hayner Memorial Library (now The Hayner Public Library District) effective October 1, 1925. She was the third Dolbee sister to serve as librarian, and their combined tenures totaled 48 years. Blanche Dolbee led the Alton Public Library from 1875 until 1878 (when she married) while it was still in a room at Alton City Hall. Florence Dolbee was appointed head librarian in 1880, ushered the library through the building of the Jennie D. Hayner Memorial Library building, and retired due to ill health in 1912. Harriet began as an unpaid volunteer but was appointed to a paid position as assistant librarian in 1901. When Florence retired, Harriet became head librarian and remained in that role for 24 years. “The directors of the library feel that Miss Dolbee has earned the right to rest from her work but also keenly feel the loss it will be to the work of the library and to them.” Upon her retirement, Harriet

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VENICE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that the intersection of Illinois 3 (Cedar Street) and Broadway near the McKinley Bridge in Madison County will be closed starting at 6 a.m. Monday, Oct. 6, weather permitting. The closure is expected to last one week, with the intersection reopening by 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10. The closure is necessary to complete pavement patching as part of an ongoing project. The overall project is expected to be completed by mid-summer 2026. During the closure, one through lane in each direction on Cedar Street will always remain open. However, southbound Illinois 3 (Cedar Street) traffic will not be able to access eastbound Broadway. Southbound Illinois traffic will be detoured across the McKinley Bridge into Missouri, then east on Interstate 70 back into Illinois to reconnect with Illinois 3. Drivers are encouraged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, and refrain from using

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ALTON - Bring your furry friends to the Canine Carnival at the Alton Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2025, for a morning full of fun just for them. At this free event organized by Alton Main Street and Hope Animal Rescues, there will be many activities to enjoy and pet-related vendor booths to browse. Plus, you can learn about local animal welfare charities and services for your pets. Rescue agencies will be holding an adopt-a-thon, so if you are looking for a new best friend come meet some loveable dogs who need a good home. Features of the event include a Pet Parade at 10:00 a.m., and a costume contest which will be voted on via social media. Bring your dog dressed to impress, because the winner of the costume contest will receive a $25 gift certificate to Petco. There will be activities for pets and families, and vendors selling pet-related products such as handmade dog treats, toys, bandanas, clothing, collars and more. Information

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GRAFTON - Cory Jobe, President/CEO of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau said there will be a wide range of craft beverage producers in the region at the annual Craft Beverage Festival on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025. “We have a wide range of craft beverage producers in the region who put a lot of time, energy and talent into their signature pours,” Cory Jobe, President/CEO of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau says. “They deserve a festival dedicated to showcasing their craftsmanship and this event puts a spotlight on the best craft beverages the region has to offer.” Craft beverage connoisseurs can enjoy drinks from local craft producers including Schlafly, Grafton Winery, Old Bakery Beer Company, Moon Drops + Wellness, Earth Candy, Old Herald Brewery & Distillery, Good News Brewing, Bluestem Vodka and Red Rooster Brew Werks. Food will be provided by Blackbird Bakery & Café, Bella Milano, Grafton Winery, The Mother Road Fudge Shop, Bluff

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ALTON - Alton-based attorney Keith Short has some insights on how to select a jury. Short, who works with Keith Short & Associates, P.C., recently shared more about his jury selection process and the ins and outs of connecting with jurors. He noted that most lawyers never go to trial, but for those who do, it’s important to make sure the right people are on the jury. “Jury selection, you will hear all the time, is not about picking people. It’s about eliminating people,” Short said. “You don’t want people who are biased for either side because it spoils the outcome. There’s a lot of science that goes into it. There’s a lot of background.” Short specializes in injury, medical malpractice and workers’ comp cases. In order to help his clients receive the results they want, it’s important to select a jury that will be fair and engaged. To do this, Short and his team often do a lot of research into potential jurors

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TROY - The Triad Community Unit School District #2 has officially started construction on their new middle school. On Sept. 30, 2025, the district broke ground on the new building. Superintendent Dr. Jason Henderson expressed his excitement to complete the project and replace the current Triad Middle School, which has been serving the district since 1959. “As our communities grow, our schools need to grow with them,” Henderson said. “When you’re building a new school, it’s going to be able to do things for our students that just aren’t possible in a building from 1959, from modern learning spaces, innovative technology designed for collaboration, just to allow the students to explore and create and grow really, really effectively. We’re just excited to be able to build something that's going to be here for decades to come.” Henderson explained that the Triad Middle School building opened as the high school in the 1950s and then

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CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) are encouraging eligible families to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to support income eligible households with utility costs for natural gas, propane, and electricity. Applications opened today, October 1, and will remain open through August 15, 2026, or until funds are exhausted. For many residents, there is an additional reason to apply for LIHEAP this year. Customers of these four natural gas utilities – Ameren, Nicor, North Shore Gas, and Peoples Gas – will automatically have their monthly gas bill reduced under the Low-Income Discount Rate program as long as they receive an annual LIHEAP benefit. “As temperatures begin to drop, my administration is committed to supporting Illinois families with vital utility support for households across the state,” said Governor JB Pritzker . “With energy costs o

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ALTON – Alton Police have charged three city residents with burglary, including one accused of breaking into an Ameren facility and two others on pretrial release from prior cases. Andrew R. Butler, 56, of Alton, was charged on Sept. 23, 2025 with one count of burglary, a Class 2 felony. Butler allegedly entered a building belonging to Ameren Illinois at the Alton Operating Center on Oakwood Avenue without legal authority and with the intent to commit a theft on Aug. 29, 2025. Rosemarie A. Baker, 56, and Mariah C. Moore, 27, both of Alton, were each charged with Class 2 felony counts of burglary on Sept. 23, 2025. The two allegedly unlawfully entered a building on Wallace Street in Alton, intending to commit theft, on May 30, 2024. Baker and Moore were both charged earlier this year with unlawful possession of an allegedly stolen moped. Both were granted pretrial release from custody in those previous cases. The Alton Police Department presented all three of the cases agains

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ST. CHARLES COUNTY, MO. — A custodian at Francis Howell High School was placed on leave and arrested Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2025, after allegedly writing racist graffiti in the school’s bathrooms last week, authorities said. Tyler Carter was charged by the St. Charles County Police Department with second-degree property damage and harassment motivated by discrimination to frighten or disturb. Carter is being held on a $50,000 bond. Police records indicate that on Sept. 23, 2025, Carter entered several classrooms and bathrooms, writing racially derogatory statements and sexually explicit language, as well as pouring chemicals on items in custodial closets. The graffiti, which included racial slurs and references to sexual violence, was reported by a student and promptly removed by school administrators. Interim Superintendent Mark Delaney condemned the incident in a message and apologized for its impact on the school community. “All students and staff deserve to feel

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MASCOUTAH - State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) is hosting Mobile Office Hours in Mascoutah on October 7, 2025. This free event gives his constituents the opportunity to discuss state legislature and to talk about changes they would like to see from elected officials in Illinois. “I look forward to meeting my constituents to hear directly from them about what matters most to them and their families,” said Schmidt. “It’s healthy to have open conversations with others and this event is designed to give individuals the time to share their voice with me.” Mobile Office Hours Details: When: October 7th, 2025 Where: Mascoutah Municipal Building Address : 3 W. Main Street, Mascoutah, IL 62258 Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

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ALTON - Alton’s famous Vintage Voices tours will start this weekend. Planned for Oct. 4, 5, 11 and 12, 2025, these walking tours take attendees through the cemetery to different gravestones, where an actor tells the story of the person buried there. Tours will take off every 15 minutes from 12–2:15 p.m. on those dates. There is also a non-walking performance at 5 p.m. on Oct. 5 at St. Mary’s Middle School. “We have all walks of life who walk again,” said Diana, who helps oversee the Vintage Voices steering committee. “Our mission is to keep history alive.” The Vintage Voices organization has hosted tours for 24 years now. This year, they began preparing for the tours in April by researching Altonians buried in the cemetery. Lacy, who serves on the steering committee and manages the Hayner Genealogy and Local History Library, compiled as much information on these decedents as possible alongside her team at the library. They then

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BETHALTO — Civic Memorial High School will host a Pink Out Night at Hauser Stadium on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, to support Nicole Parris, a local teacher and football mom currently battling breast cancer. The event aims to raise awareness and funds to assist Parris with medical expenses while honoring all those affected by the disease. Nicole Parris, a special education teacher in the Collinsville School District, was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. She has undergone a double mastectomy and multiple emergency surgeries due to complications. Facing significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges, Parris has received an outpouring of support from the community. The initiative began when three Civic Memorial junior football moms — Stacie Raines, Selina Brawner, and Desiree Potter — mobilized to aid Parris. Potter started collecting donations from the football community, while Raines and Brawner organized the Pink Out Night and an apparel fundraiser. To date,

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