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ALTON — Alton Main Street, the Sierra Club Illinois’ Three Rivers Project, and Jacoby Arts Center are excited to announce the return of the Mississippi Earthtones Festival, taking place at the Alton Amphitheater on Saturday, September 20th, from noon to 10:00 p.m. This beloved event draws approximately 5,000 community members and visitors to Downtown Alton to celebrate the river through art, music, and conservation efforts. Throughout the day, live performances will fill the air, featuring local musicians and entertainers. Visitors can explore nature-inspired, handcrafted, and eco-friendly wares from local artists. Jacoby Arts Center has curated an engaging lineup of performances and interactive art experiences, and commissioned installations will transform the festival grounds. Booth space is fully booked, hosting over 25 environmental education exhibits, more than 70 eco-conscious artists and makers, and 12 culinary vendors, all dedicated to celebrating our river and

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) are urging residents to use caution when outdoors because of unhealthy air quality. According to the national Air Quality Index (AQI), air quality values for particulate matter, also known as particle pollution, in multiple Illinois Sectors are higher than anticipated due to impacts from Canadian wildfire smoke, triggering a Red Air Pollution Action Day. The Red Air Pollution Action Day applies to the following Illinois counties: Jo Daviess, Stephenson, Carroll, Whiteside, Rock Island, Mercer, Henry, Bureau, Putnam, Henderson, Warren, Hancock, McDonough, Knox, Stark, Marshall, Peoria, Woodford, Fulton, Tazewell, Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, De Kalb, Lee, La Salle, McHenry, Lake, Kane, DuPage, Cook, Kendall, Will, and Grundy. Additionally, Illinois is downgrading air quality forecasts for Bloomington and Normal (McLean County) from Moderate (Yellow) to Unhealthy

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GRANITE CITY – Domestic battery cases filed against two Granite City residents include a woman accused of battering a pregnant victim and a man charged with attacking an elderly family member. Iraesha J. Oliver, 28, of Granite City, was charged on July 22, 2025 with one count each of aggravated battery (a Class 3 felony) and battery (a Class A misdemeanor). On July 21, 2025, Oliver allegedly caused bodily harm to the victim, who was pregnant at the time of the offense, by striking them about the head with her hands and grabbing the victim’s hair. Oliver’s case was presented by the Granite City Police Department. She was granted pretrial release from custody with additional conditions. Under the conditions of her release, Oliver is ordered to have no contact with and remain at least 500 feet away from the victim in this case at all times. She was also ordered to refrain from entering or remaining at the victim’s residence and cannot possess any firearms while

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TROY — The Troy Police Department announced a full closure of approximately 300 feet of Country Lane in Troy from Thursday, July 31, through Sunday, Aug. 3, 2025, for necessary reconstruction work aimed at improving roadway safety. The closure will affect the section of Country Lane east of Troy Road. Residents and motorists are advised to use a detour route by continuing east on Country Lane to Baurer Road, then heading north on Baurer Road to access Highway 40. “We kindly request the understanding of all residents and motorists during this time,” the Troy Police said in a statement. “The work is essential for improving roadway safety and keeping disturbances to the shortest duration possible.” During the construction period, residents within the closure may experience temporary loss of driveway access. The department noted there will be a drop in elevation greater than one foot as the new pavement is reconstructed. Drivers are urged to exercise patience

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) issued a public health alert Monday for ham salad products containing recalled breadcrumb items that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The alert covers “RESER’S FINE FOODS Ham Salad” in 12-ounce tubs with a sell-by date of Sept. 1, 2025, and “Molly’s Kitchen Ham Salad” in 5-pound tubs with a sell-by date of Aug. 31, 2025. The recall stems from Reser’s Fine Foods, Inc., a Topeka, Kansas-based establishment, which found that it used FDA-regulated breadcrumb products subject to a recall by Newly Weds Foods due to potential Listeria contamination. FSIS is warning consumers that these products, which bear the USDA mark of inspection, should not be consumed. Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection primarily affecting older adults, pregnant women and their newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

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ALTON - A local band has released their second EP to rave reviews. Rock Crown, a rock band based out of Alton, recently released the EP “Better Late,” available on all streaming platforms as well as local stores Mojo’s Music and Riverbend Records. In a recent interview on “Our Daily Show!” with C.J. Nasello , band members shared their favorite songs and recounted the story behind the music. “It’s kickass,” said one band member. “It’s going to blow you away.” The band released their first EP, “A Good Place for Zen,” in 2024. But as they started work on their second, they quickly realized that while the second EP is more “coherent,” the recording process was more difficult as they were a band of “perfectionists.” The band ultimately recorded each song three times. While this was complicated, it was possible because they’re “doing it DIY,” meaning they

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BETHALTO — Lauren Hardy, left fielder for the Civic Memorial girls softball team, recently completed a notable four-year career with the Eagles, finishing with a .333 batting average, 34 RBIs and 68 hits. Hardy is a Tom Lane State Farm Insurance Female Athlete of the Month for her contributions to the girls softball team. Hardy was a key player both in the outfield and at the plate during the past season, according to Raigen Linton, head girls softball coach at Civic Memorial. "She doesn’t miss many balls hit into the outfield and has done well at hitting in her Eagles career. She will be missed," Linton said. This season, Hardy recorded a .306 batting average with 19 hits, seven RBIs and seven doubles. She was one of five seniors on the Eagles roster this year.

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RIVERBEND - As summer continues, an Ameren Illinois representative is providing some basic electric safety tips to help community members stay safe. Whether you’re flying drones over power lines or using your phone in the pool, there are a few ways to avoid a potentially dangerous or even fatal situation. Brian Bretsch with Ameren Illinois encourages community members to have a conversation with their kids about these topics at any point in the year, but especially in the summer when kids are more likely to be outside and around electricity. “It’s always a good time to talk to your kids about some electric safety tips,” Bretsch said. “We’re just asking parents to err on the side of caution and just have that conversation.” As drones become more popular, Bretsch urges caregivers to talk to their children about what to do if a drone becomes entangled in power lines or falls into a substation. He acknowledges that many kids would rathe

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GRANITE CITY - The Granite City Police Department issued a public service announcement Thursday, July 31, 2025, warning residents about a phone scam involving calls that appear to come from City Hall. According to the Granite City Police Department, numerous residents have received calls from a number associated with City Hall in which the caller demands immediate payment of fines, claiming that the recipient or a family member will face trouble if the payment is not made over the phone. The police department clarified that these calls are spoofed and do not originate from City Hall. Officials emphasized that the City of Granite City will never request payment over the phone. Residents are advised to be cautious and not to provide any personal or financial information in response to these calls. Anyone with questions or information about these types of calls, or who wants to file a report, should contact the Granite City Police at 618-877-6111.

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JERSEYVILLE - There’s a new band in the Riverbend area, and they promise not just a concert, but a show. Almost Legends is currently seeking a guitarist and bassist to round out their lineup and begin playing at venues across the region. Bud Ramsay, who organized the band, explained that they plan to offer a different setlist at every show, complete with costumes, audience interactions and the vocal stylings of karaoke champs. “We’re going to have a blast,” Ramsay said. “I’m telling you, this is a disclaimer, you are going to have fun when you come and see Almost Legends.” Ramsay hails from Las Vegas, where he was involved in the World Cup Karaoke Contest. Approximately 30 finalists from the Greater St. Louis region competed in last year’s contest, and several of them are now a part of the Almost Legends band. While many bands play the same sets at every show, Ramsay said Almost Legends stands out because their setlist varies.

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GRANITE CITY - Natalie Kondrich was a strong senior midfielder who usually came off the bench for Granite City High's girls soccer team this past spring in 2025. featured play that was steady and consistent all season, providing a spark for the Warriors. Kondrich felt she played well overall in the season. "I think I did OK," Kondrich said. "We had our ups and downs, but every team as those." When she looks back at the just completed season, Kondrich will have many good memories of playing for the Warriors. "Probably just showing up to practice every day will be one of my favorite memories," Kondrich said of her Granite City high school soccer career, "and having fun, all the girls." She also spared a thought for head coach Ken Prazma, who stepped down and announced his retirement after the Warriors' final game. "I think he definitely enjoyed coaching us, and we definitely love him," she said. "We hope he has great things coming." As for Kondrich, her plans include attending

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ALTON - Community members can come out and enjoy a fun night for a great cause in memory of Anthony Geisen. From 6–11 p.m. on Aug. 23, 2025, at the Alton VFW, Anthony’s family and loved ones will honor him with the second annual Forever 20 memorial fundraiser to raise money for Marquette Catholic High School scholarships in his name. Attendees can enjoy a chicken and beer dinner, live music by Lady Luck, raffles, an auction and more fun. “We think about him every day. But this is one day of the year where everybody, people in the community who have supported us so much, can all come together and just celebrate his life,” said Sara, Anthony’s mother. Sara and organizers Katie and Tricia have worked hard to make this year’s event a fun one. There will be a bourbon pull with top-shelf bourbons and 52 chances to win. Organizers thanked the 16 sponsors and several local businesses who have donated raffle and auction items. They added that whoever

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EDWARDSVILLE – Race riots were a form of nationwide terrorism against Black people, according to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville alumna and filmmaker Tiffany B. Lee, CEO of Think Black Cultural Media Group and Executive Director of Heritage Programs, Inc. Lee, who earned a bachelor’s in psychology from SIUE in 1998 and holds a master’s in communications, has produced a 17-minute documentary short, “I Bear Witness: The Untold Stories of American Race Riots;” and a limited interview series, “I Bear Witness: Freedom Fighters on the Frontlines.” She is producing a full-length, 60-minute documentary, “I Bear Witness: The Untold Stories of Southwest Missouri Race Riots . “I wanted my work to move the conversation past the idea of a race riot as being an anomaly and begin the conversation of the race riot as a form of nationwide terrorism against Black people,” said Lee, the East St. Louis native who served as

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SPRINGFIELD – As students close out summer break and begin shopping for school supplies, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced that applications are now being accepted for the Safe Routes to School program. The program provides funding for projects that make walking, biking and rolling to school a safer option for students, encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle from an early age. “Safe Routes to School improvements not only give kids safe, healthy choices to get to school, but they strengthen entire communities,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “We encourage our local partners to apply and look forward to seeing another round of impressive community-led projects.” Administered by IDOT using federal funds, Safe Routes to School advances projects that improve safety and reduce traffic – as well as related fuel consumption and air pollution – in areas around schools from kindergarten through high school. Th

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GRAFTON – Celebrate the last Family Fun Night of the 2025 Season at Raging Rivers WaterPark on Friday, Aug. 1! The park will be open for extra hours, welcoming guests for an evening packed with excitement, food, music, and fireworks. From 6–9 p.m., families and friends can experience the thrill of Raging Rivers’ water attractions after hours. Alongside the splashing fun, the night will feature live music to set the festive mood. Indulge in great eats with the fan-favorite Byrdies food truck on-site, serving up delicious fare available for purchase. As dusk falls, end the evening with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the sky above the Mississippi River, creating unforgettable summer memories for all ages. Admission for this special event is just $19.99 per person online or at the gate for entry from 6 to 9 p.m. Guests are also welcome to enjoy a full day and night at the park with a season pass or a full one-day admission ticket. Don’t miss your chanc

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ALTON - Centerstone and the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services partner to offer support to kids with complex behavioral health needs. The Pathways to Success program works with Medicaid-enrolled kids under age 21 and their families. The program connects families with a care coordinator who will spend time in the family’s home and learn more about what each member needs to be successful and healthy. “The Pathways to Success program is a wraparound program with the goal of building families’ strengths and resiliency,” explained Charity Thompson with Centerstone. “We are working to try to reduce higher needs, crisis intervention, get kids away from inpatient placements and residential placements by providing them with connections to different providers and services in the community.” The care coordinator and the family work together to build child and family teams. These teams might include a pediatrician or therapist a

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GRANITE CITY – A three-day spree of vehicle thefts has yielded felony charges in three different cases against the same local man. George Garcia-Flores, 22, listed as homeless out of Granite City, was charged in three separate cases filed on July 21, 2025, each related to stolen vehicle offenses. Garcia-Flores is charged with committing the following offenses on the following dates: Case 1: July 15, 2025 – Offenses related to motor vehicles (Class 2 felony) Case 2: July 16 – Offenses related to motor vehicles (Class 2 felony) Case 3: July 17 – Aggravated vehicular hijacking (Class X felony), unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle (Class 2 felony), robbery (Class 2 felony). July 18 – Theft (Class 3 felony). Petitions were filed in all three cases by the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office seeking to deny Garcia-Flores’s pretrial release from custody. On July 15, 2025, Garcia-Flores allegedly possessed a GM

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Did you know that engaging children in creative activities can boost their problem-solving skills by up to 50%? Creativity is more than just fun; it’s an essential part of cognitive development, especially for young minds. Involving kids in do-it-yourself (DIY) crafts not only fosters imagination but also enhances fine motor skills, patience, and even teamwork when done in groups. With that in mind, this article explores simple and enjoyable DIY summer crafts that can keep children entertained, stimulated, and proud of their handmade creations. Why DIY Crafts Matter for Children’s Development Creative play is a powerful learning tool. Studies in developmental psychology emphasize that hands-on activities help children develop critical thinking and the ability to adapt to new challenges. When kids make something with their own hands, they learn planning, organization, and the value of effort. Moreover, crafting can be a calming activity, providing a break from screen time

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MADISON COUNTY - Justice Amy Sholar has officially announced her candidacy for continued service on the Illinois Fifth District Appellate Court. Justice Sholar has a strong record of judicial leadership with more than two decades of legal experience. She was appointed to the Fifth District Appellate Court by the Illinois Supreme Court last year and is currently serving in that role. “I’ve dedicated my life to serving our judicial system and I pride myself on the unbiased and fair perspective I bring to the bench,” said Justice Sholar. “I think people don’t always realize that decisions made by the appellate court impact all citizens of our state, from property ownership disputes to ensuring proper handling of criminal cases. It is critical to keep an experienced jurist with a history of fairness serving in this role.” Justice Sholar is seeking election to the seat created by the passing of long serving and respected Justice Thomas M. Welch. The sea

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July 31 has been a day marked by remarkable events that have shaped the course of history across the world. Moving back in history, July 31, 1914, witnessed a critical moment during the early stages of World War I. On this day, the United Kingdom issued an ultimatum to Germany after the invasion of Belgium, demanding withdrawal. When Germany failed to comply, Britain formally declared war on August 4, marking its entry into what would become a devastating global conflict. This diplomatic move underscored the complex alliances and tensions that escalated into the Great War, reshaping geopolitical landscapes for decades. In the realm of civil rights, July 31, 1964, is notable for the passage of the Civil Rights Act in the United States Senate. This landmark legislation aimed to end segregation and discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The act's passage represented a monumental victory for the civil rights movement, setting the foundation for more equitable

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