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SWANSEA – To emphasize the importance of learning throughout the summer, State Senator Christopher Belt is hosting a Summer Book Club to encourage students to read and continue their studies during the summer vacation. “Reading over the summer helps students keep their minds sharp and ready for the new school year,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “I’m excited to launch this Summer Book Club to encourage young readers and reward those who join and complete their reading goals.” The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form, and return the form to Belt’s East St. Louis office by Aug. 15. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and a certificate from Senator Belt. Summer Book Club forms are available to download at SenatorBelt.com . People with questions can reach out to Belt’s East St. Louis office at (618) 875-1212

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is alerting Illinoisans on ways to keep cool and offset coming energy price spikes. Summer costs are expected to rise June 1, 2025 for ComEd and Ameren customers alike following a regional increase in energy supply prices. “Energy affordability is always top of mind at the ICC, and we want ratepayers to be aware of higher summertime rates so they can safely plan to reduce energy usage and improve energy efficiency around their homes,” said Jonathan Feipel, Executive Director for the Illinois Commerce Commission. “Higher energy supply rates are not unique to Illinois. Unfortunately, electric consumers from Louisiana to Minnesota will be paying more for electricity—not due to state policy decisions, but regional supply and demand.” PJM Interconnection, the power grid operator for northern Illinois, and Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), the operator for central and southern Illinois,

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a coalition of 16 attorneys general, today announced a lawsuit to stop the Trump administration’s illegal attempts to cut critical National Science Foundation (NSF) programs and funding that help maintain the United States’ position as a global leader in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). In their lawsuit, Raoul and the coalition are seeking a court order blocking the implementation of the NSF’s new directives to eliminate programs addressing diversity in STEM and cut vital funding for research across the country. “The funds the Trump administration is attempting to cut are vital to addressing the nation’s biggest challenges,” Raoul said. “The impact of these illegal cuts would devastate scientific research at universities in Illinois and across the country and would stall efforts to grow the STEM workforce.” On April 18, the NSF began terminating grants funding

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SPRINGFIELD - Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias honored the legacy and impact of former Governor and Secretary of State Jim Edgar today with the formal dedication of the Jim Edgar Reading Room at the Illinois State Library. Giannoulias, who also serves as State Libarian, was joined by a bipartisan group of state officials, including Governor JB Pritzker and Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski, to dedicate the Reading Room and celebrate Edgar’s vital contributions to Illinois’ library and literacy programs. “It’s a privilege to honor the legacy of Governor Jim Edgar – an incredible statesman, advocate and friend – for his career of service to our state and its citizens,” Giannoulias said. “The Jim Edgar Reading Room enshrines the former Governor and Secretary of State’s legacy and indelible contributions to our state’s library, which continue to have a profound impact throughout our state.” Giannoulias drafted House Joint

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EAST ST. LOUIS — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) headlined a town hall at East St. Louis Senior High School hosted by the Public Education Alliance to address the devastating impact of the Trump administration’s threats to public education and of revoked federal COVID-relief funds. Congresswoman Budzinski was joined by National Education Association President Becky Pringle, American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten, and more than 300 parents, educators, and students from across Illinois’ 13th Congressional District. The event comes just weeks after the U.S. Department of Education abruptly rescinded over $19 million in obligated ESSER III funds to East St. Louis School District 189—despite previously approving an extension for the completion of essential HVAC upgrades to protect student and staff health. The decision not only jeopardizes critical infrastructure projects already under contract and underway, but it also

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TROY - The City of Troy will offer a Summer Kick-Off Community Resource and Outreach Market for families to have fun and learn about local services. From 5–7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at Tri-Township Park Pavilion #1, community members can enjoy bounce houses, games, giveaways, a petting zoo, free hotdogs and more while talking to local organizations about their resources. The event, hosted by the Troy/Maryville/St. Jacob/Marine Chamber of Commerce, aims to connect people to services while providing a fun night for families. “Really, most importantly, what it’s really for is to provide resources to parents over the summer for their kids, what they might need,” said Dawn Mushill, president of the Chamber. “We’ll also have a Chamber booth, so if you get through all the resources and you go, ‘I really wish so-and-so were here,’ or, ‘I really need some help with this,’ we have someone who is going to follow up for you

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GRANITE CITY - The Granite City Police Department announced the promotion of two of its officers, Lt. Tim Bedard and Sgt. Michelle Werner. The department shared the news recently, recognizing their advancement within the force. The department congratulated both officers on their achievements.

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EAST ST. LOUIS – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced lane closures on eastbound and westbound Interstate 64 from 15th Street to Illinois 157, beginning Monday, June 2. The closures are necessary for road maintenance and will reduce traffic to one lane in each direction nightly, Monday through Friday, weather permitting. The work is expected to continue through early summer 2025. 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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ALTON - During a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony at James Killion Park, Alton Mayor David Goins declared May 30, 2025, as James Killion Day. At 4 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025, community members gathered at the new bandshell at the park to dedicate the structure. Goins noted James Killion was a mentor and leader in Alton, and he was proud to dedicate the day to him. “I recognize as a day of youth mentorship throughout the city, and further encourage each citizen to take part in mentoring the youth to provide a fitting memorial to the life and legacy of James Killion, Jr.,” Goins said. The program began with the ribbon-cutting, led by the Riverbend Growth Association, and an opening prayer by Rev. John Herring. Jocelyn Harris, a member of the James Killion Beautification and Enhancement Committee, welcomed the community to the park. “We gather here in the heart of James Killion Park, a place that embodies the spirit of our community and the beauty of nature,”

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EDWARDSVILLE – A man from Edwardsville remains in custody on his first felony count of domestic battery. Nathaniel D. Shaw, 44, of Edwardsville, was charged on May 27, 2025 with a Class 2 felony count of aggravated domestic battery and a Class A misdemeanor count of domestic battery. On May 24, 2025, Shaw allegedly strangled a household or family member and struck them with a closed fist. A petition to deny Shaw’s pretrial release was filed by the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office. According to the petition, the victim in this case told authorities Shaw “struck her about the body multiple times causing injury” before Shaw reportedly threw her to the ground and, while the victim was on the ground, began strangling her. Shaw’s criminal history shows several prior misdemeanor counts of domestic battery in Madison County dating back to 2004. This case marks his first felony count of domestic battery, with Shaw’s only prior felony

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GRANITE CITY – A Granite City man with a criminal past faces a new felony after stabbing someone who “attempted to calm him down” during a disturbance. Blake L. Jakson, 31, of Granite City, was charged on May 28, 2025 with a Class 3 felony count of aggravated battery. Jakson allegedly stabbed the victim in the abdomen with a knife on May 27, 2025. A petition from the State’s Attorney’s Office to deny Jakson’s pretrial release states that after officers responded to a report of a stabbing, the victim and a witness told authorities Jakson was intoxicated and “causing a disturbance” shortly before stabbing the victim. “During the disturbance, the victim attempted to calm him down,” the petition states. “The defendant retrieved a knife and stabbed the victim in the abdomen, causing a laceration. The victim was transferred to the hospital and later released.” Jakson’s criminal history shows prior convictions

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CHARLESTON — Edwardsville’s 4x800-meter relay team secured a spot in the state finals after posting a time of 7:58.53 during the preliminaries Friday, May 30, 2025, at Charleston. The Tigers edged out Downers Grove South, which finished with a time of 7:58.87, and Oswego East at 7:59.25 to advance. The relay squad members are Spencer Homes Male Athletes of the Month for Edwardsville. The team’s four members shared their thoughts on the race and qualifying for the finals. Colin Thomas said, “I felt good out of the start in 200 and kept calm the last lap, I was giving it my all.” Cooper Wittek added, “I got the baton and I was pretty nervous, there was a big group in front of me. But I ended up getting around a lot of guys in the first 200, and I got out pretty fast. I was focused on positioning, and I felt like I handed off in a pretty good time.” Declan Hoeferlin explained his role: “I think the main goal for my third leg is I wanted

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ALTON - Welcoming a child home from college can be stressful for parents, but Rachel Brown, LCPC, has advice to make it a smoother transition. Brown, a psychotherapist with OSF St. Anthony’s Psychological Services Department, encouraged parents and students to have an open dialogue about boundaries and expectations. She emphasized that each family is different, but there are a few key ways to minimize stress, check in with your student, and ensure the summer is a positive experience for all. “I don’t know if there is a best way, to be honest, because I think it depends on your family,” Brown said. “I think it can be a learning experience for both parties.” Brown suggested making communication a priority. To start the conversation, a parent might even ask their child what expectations the child has about coming back home and how the parent can make this transition easier for their child. Many parents feel guilty or unsure how to proceed

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ROXANA — Roxana High School sophomore Zane Losch made a significant impact in the discus event on Friday, May 30, 2025, at the regional meet in Charleston. Losch threw the discus 47.87 meters, securing fifth place and advancing to the finals scheduled for Saturday, May 31, 2025. Losch described the achievement as meaningful for a sophomore. Losch is a Midwest Members Male Athlete of the Month for Roxana. “I felt good about the season getting P.R. after P.R. getting here,” he said. Reflecting on his performance on Friday, he added, “It felt really good today. I had a good wind and the conditions. It is a nice, beautiful day outside. The goal is always to get more throws and go bigger.” Currently, Losch trails Princeton’s Ian Morris, who leads with a throw of 48.82 meters. Losch’s advancement to the finals highlights his steady improvement throughout the season and positions him as a competitor to watch in the upcoming event.

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BELLEVILLE – A Belleville man previously convicted of domestic battery has been released from custody after being charged again with the same offense. Roman L. Pierce, 37, of Belleville, was charged on May 20, 2025 with his second offense of domestic battery, a Class 4 felony. Pierce allegedly struck a 13-year-old household or family member in the face, causing bodily harm and bruising on Feb. 24, 2025. He had previously been convicted of domestic battery in a 2014 case out of Madison County. The Collinsville Police Department presented the latest domestic battery case against Pierce, who was ordered released from custody with additional conditions. Among other conditions of his release, Pierce was ordered to have no contact with the victim in this case and refrain from entering or remaining at the victim’s residence for at least 72 hours following his release. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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CHARLESTON — Civic Memorial junior Tullio Zamperi secured a spot in the finals of the Class 2A IHSA State Track and Field Meet in the 800-meter run on Friday, May 30, 2025, finishing ninth in the preliminaries with a time of 1:57.56. Zamperi advanced to Saturday's finals just behind Roxana’s Anthony Hardin, who clocked a time of 1:57.55 to place eighth in the prelims. The event took place at the Eastern Illinois University Big Blue track in Charleston, a venue Zamperi described as having a unique and energizing atmosphere. “I am very, very excited. It is a goal I have had since last season,” Zamperi said. “I knew I had to take it to state meet, going by myself in the 800. I am very happy going to the final.” Zamperi, recognized as a Tom Lane State Farm Insurance Male Athlete of the Month for the Eagles, also shared his appreciation for the track’s environment. “I love the Big Blue track here in Charleston and the energy it brings. It

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ALTON – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that additional lane closures will take effect on westbound and eastbound Illinois 140 at the intersection of Fosterburg Road in Madison County beginning, weather permitting, Wednesday, June 4. The closures will be as follows: Westbound Illinois 140: The two inside lanes will be closed. Only one lane will remain open. Eastbound Illinois 140: The inside lane will be closed. The remaining three lanes will remain open. All traffic signals at the intersection will remain on red flash throughout the closure period. Motorists should treat flashing red signals as stop signs and proceed through the intersection only when it is safe, following standard four-way stop rules. The closures are part of an ongoing $1.95 million project that will add new turn lanes at the intersection. The overall project is expected to be completed by November. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to choose alternate

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TROY - A huge e-cycling and shredding event is scheduled for next weekend. From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2025, community members can bring electronics, paper and prescription medications to Triad High School in Troy. Hosted by the Troy/Maryville/St. Jacob/Marine Chamber of Commerce, the e-cycle and shredding event aims to provide a convenient way for community members to dispose of items. “Bring all your stuff,” said Dawn Mushill, president of the Chamber of Commerce. “We have a line designated. We have volunteers that will help you out. We’ve got people in these orange vests, and I’ll be out there with my flag.” Mushill said the shredding is “unlimited,” and they’ve had people bring an entire van full of paper to be shredded in the past. The paper will be shredded on the spot by The Shred Truck. For the e-cycling, CJD E-Cycling will accept any item with a cord at no charge. There will be a slight charge for

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ALTON – Alton Mayor David Goins offered an update this week on the status of the sinkhole that formed at Gordon Moore Park last summer . At Wednesday’s City Council meeting, Alderman Mike Velloff asked Goins for an update on the situation. Goins said New Frontier Materials recently completed an over-300 page report on what caused the sinkhole and how it will be repaired, but said the next steps will take more time to complete. “Obviously, it’s going to take some time. I would ask for the citizens to just have some patience with us, but there is a plan in place,” Goins said. “The plan is to begin to stabilize the underground first, then begin to fill the hole ... Once it’s filled, there will be a time of settling, and after they have determined that it has settled … there are plans in place of restoring the fields back to their original condition.” Alton Corporate Counselor Heidi Eckart said the city is drafting a “demand

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BELLEVILLE — On Thursday, May 29, 2025, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) convened her second annual Workforce Summit at the Center for Academic and Vocational Excellence (the CAVE) in Belleville, Illinois. The event highlighted the critical role of career and technical education (CTE) and showcased innovative local strategies for workforce development. Nearly 100 stakeholders attended the summit, including representatives from major employers such as Boeing, Ameren, and Gulfstream, along with leaders from local schools, non-profits, government agencies, CTE organizations, organized labor, community colleges, and workforce development partners. Together, they explored opportunities to strengthen the region’s talent pipeline and support pathways to high-quality, good-paying jobs. Budzinski hosts a panel with representatives from WIOA-American Job Centers in IL-13. “I launched the first Workforce Summit last year to spark conversations and drive

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