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ALTON – A downtown Alton business owner says his bar is being “singled out” by city officials ahead of a hearing next week concerning the bar’s late night liquor license. Brian Trust, co-owner of the Pour Decisions bar in downtown Alton, said he’s been called to appear at a hearing on Monday, July 14, 2025 before Mayor David Goins, who also serves as the city’s Liquor Control Commissioner. At stake is the bar’s late night liquor license , which allows it to operate from 1 to 2 a.m. on weekdays and 1 to 3 a.m. on weekends. Trust said he feels his business is being unfairly targeted by the city over safety concerns that existed before Pour Decisions opened its doors downtown. “The City of Alton had issues before we even opened,” Trust said. “If you guys want to clean up downtown Alton and you want to shut down at 1 , I’m completely cordial if you address all the bars. However, whoever did it, you singled out my partner

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GODFREY - St. Ambrose Catholic School in Godfrey is expanding its middle school curriculum with accelerated mathematics classes and new foreign language and personal finance instruction for eighth-grade students, Principal Bob Baird announced. Baird said the changes, set to take effect in the 2025-2026 school year for math and already implemented in the 2024-2025 school year for language and finance, aim to provide a more challenging academic environment while maintaining the school’s mission of sharing the message of Jesus Christ. Several years ago, St. Ambrose prioritized improving math education and standardized test scores by adopting the Sadlier Math curriculum. After three years, the school closed the standardized test gap with other Catholic schools in the Diocese of Springfield. During the 2024-2025 school year, St. Ambrose students surpassed the average test scores of most diocesan schools, positioning the school among the highest performing in the Diocese. To

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GRAFTON - Christina Petrea is organizing a fundraiser to support her son Dawson’s participation in an international medical program aimed at high school students. Dawson, a junior at Jersey Community High School, has been recognized for his academic excellence and dedication to pursuing a career in anesthesiology. Dawson Petrea has consistently been on the high honor roll since sixth grade and recently was inducted into the National Society of Torch and Laurel during the National Future Physicians and Medical Scientists Congress in Boston. This honor society recognizes high-achieving high school students with a strong interest in medicine. In June 2026, Dawson is scheduled to attend the Future Docs Abroad Program in Athens, Greece. The program provides students with hands-on experience in the medical field by allowing them to learn directly from medical professionals and observe medical procedures in a country without HIPAA restrictions. Christina said this opportunity is designed

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JERSEYVILLE - Scarlett Schultz has been named the 2025 Little Miss Jersey County Fair Queen. Schultz is the daughter of Matt and Karrie Schultz. As she reflected on her win, she expressed her excitement to represent Jersey County for the next year. “It feels fun,” Schultz said. Schultz wants to be a "veterinarian teacher" when she grows up. As Little Miss Jersey County Fair Queen, Schultz will be paired with Miss Jersey County Fair Queen Ashlen Scott for the next year. The two will work together to travel around the region and share more about Jersey County. Schultz can’t wait to participate in all of the parades and appearances that are planned for this upcoming year. “I feel like I’m having a dream,” she added.

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JERSEYVILLE - The Miss Jersey County Fair Pageant has officially crowned new royalty. On Wednesday, July 9, 2025, the 64th Annual Jersey County Fair Queen Pageant welcomed contestants from across the region to compete for the title of 2025 Miss Jersey County Fair Queen and 2025 Little Miss Jersey County Fair Queen. Ashlen Scott is your new Miss Jersey County Fair Queen and Scarlett Schultz is the new Little Miss Jersey County Fair Queen. Emma McCormick, the 2024 Miss Jersey County Fair Queen, expressed her excitement for the pageant and her gratitude for a great year. “When I won, I knew I was in for the year of a lifetime,” McCormick said. “It definitely fulfilled my expectations.” Kylie Muntz, 2024 Little Miss Jersey County Fair Queen, summed up her year by thanking McCormick for being a great role model. “A special memory was hanging out with Emma, taking pictures with her, and doing a lot of things with her,” Muntz said. Contestants

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Every year, millions of people around the world pause to celebrate National Kitten Day, a holiday dedicated entirely to the charm and wonder of young cats. But have you ever wondered why this day exists, who started it, and what purpose it serves beyond just an excuse to share adorable photos online? The story behind National Kitten Day is as intriguing as the playful creatures it honors, reflecting broader themes of animal welfare, awareness, and the human-animal bond. The Origins of National Kitten Day National Kitten Day was established in 2009 by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), an organization well-known for its advocacy of animal rights and welfare. The day was created not just as a lighthearted celebration but as a strategic initiative to raise awareness about the plight of kittens, particularly those in shelters. At the time, the HSUS recognized a concerning trend: while puppies often received a lot of public attention and demand, kittens—especially stra

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July 10 has been a day marked by pivotal events that have shaped the course of history across the globe. One of the most impactful events to occur on July 10 happened in 1940 during the height of World War II. Known as the Battle of Britain, this day marked the official beginning of the Luftwaffe's sustained aerial assault on the United Kingdom. The battle was a critical turning point in the war, as the Royal Air Force’s resilience prevented a German invasion. The courage and determination demonstrated during these air battles not only saved Britain but also set the stage for the eventual Allied victory, reinforcing the importance of air superiority in modern warfare. Earlier, July 10, 1212, witnessed the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in Spain, which proved to be a decisive victory for Christian forces during the Reconquista. This battle significantly weakened the Almohad Caliphate’s hold on the Iberian Peninsula, paving the way for the gradual Christian reclamation of

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ALTON – Alton City Council members voted 5-2 on Wednesday to officially replace the state’s expiring 1% sales tax on groceries with a city-wide grocery tax. Voting against the ordinance were Aldermen Chris Bohn and Michael Velloff. Voting in favor were Aldermen Martha Pfister, Rosie Brown, Stephanie Elliott, John Meehan, and Patricia Ford. Each alderman has consistently voted the same way on the grocery tax since the June 9, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting . No vote was held during the last City Council meeting, when the item was laid over until this week. Previously passed in the form of a resolution , the ordinance will now be adopted into the City Code well in advance of the Oct. 1, 2025 deadline needed for the city to start collecting the tax on Jan. 1, 2026. Since 100% of the proceeds from the state’s 1% grocery tax has gone directly to municipalities since 1990, allowing it to expire could have resulted in major revenue losses for the city. Comptroller

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MEDORA – A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the family of Taylor Cummines, who died in a recent car accident. The fundraiser was organized by Emily Jackson to assist Taylor's fiancé, Drew, and their three young children as they adjust to life without her. Taylor was tragically killed in a car accident involving a box truck on Illinois Route 111 at Bucks Crossing near Medora in Macoupin County on Monday, July 7, 2025. Taylor, described by Jackson as an “amazing mother” who “would have done anything for her babies,” left behind three children: Finnlee, 5; Bodi, 3; and Lovelynn, 1. Jackson said the family faces “challenges and stress of being a single father to three children.” She emphasized that Taylor “did absolutely everything for her babies and gave them the world.” The funds raised will be placed into a trust established by the family for the children’s future needs, with any additional money used

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ALTON – As the Alton Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division continues to leave no stone unturned in the investigation into the tragic July 4, 2025, homicide of 17-year-old Shabrya L. Hudson, additional charges have been filed against two more individuals connected to this case. On Wednesday, July 9, 2025, the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office, under the direction of State’s Attorney Tom Haine, issued the following charges: • Tamadrey C. Ballinger, a 20-year-old male from Alton on Two Counts of First Degree Murder and Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm. • Brashonda D. Colley, a 44-year old female from Alton of Obstructing Justice. Both individuals were taken into custody on Tuesday evening, July 8, 2025. Ballinger is being held pending a detention hearing, while Colley was released in accordance with the terms of her arrest warrant. Relating to today’s charges against Ballinger, the Alton Police Department is working

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EAST ST. LOUIS - Recently, James Avant Elementary School in East St. Louis School District 189 held its Fifth-Grade Promotional Ceremony to honor students moving on to middle school. The event celebrated the achievements of the graduating fifth graders and marked an important transition in their academic journey. School officials and staff extended congratulations to the students for their dedication and hard work. “Your commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed,” the school stated, acknowledging the students’ accomplishments. While the students will no longer be on the James Avant Elementary campus, teachers, administrators, and support staff expressed enthusiasm about watching them continue to succeed within the district. The ceremony served as a milestone for the young scholars as they prepared to embark on the next phase of their education in School District 189. The school encouraged the students to maintain their efforts with the message: “Keep

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BETHALTO - Civic Memorial High School has welcomed Dan Cichlar as its new Career & Technical Education teacher for the 2024-2025 school year. Cichlar will lead the Construction, DIY, and Introduction to Technology & Engineering classes, bringing real-world experience and a hands-on teaching approach to the curriculum. Civic Memorial announced Cichlar’s appointment recently, highlighting his role in providing students with practical skills and opportunities to explore careers in trades and technology. “I am inspired to help students discover their potential, take pride in craftsmanship, and build a foundation for a meaningful and successful future,” Cichlar said. School officials expressed enthusiasm about Cichlar joining the team. "His real-world knowledge and hands-on approach will give students exciting opportunities to learn practical skills and explore future careers in the trades and technology," CM officials said. "We’re thrilled to have him join the

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RANDOLPH COUNTY — Curtis Scott Sheeler, 65, was found deceased near his home in Randolph County on Tuesday morning, July 8, 2025, following a multi-agency search prompted by his family’s missing person report. Sheeler had been reported missing on Sunday, July 5, 2025, when family members requested a welfare check at his residence. The Randolph County Sheriff’s Office initiated a search that evening, which included checking Sheeler’s home, surrounding areas, and the homes of friends. Despite initial efforts, Sheeler was not located until the next day. On July 8, the sheriff’s office coordinated a larger search involving multiple agencies, including the Sparta Fire Department, Franklin County Office of Emergency Management Special Operations (OEMC) K-9 team, Baldwin Fire, Red Bud Fire, Ellis Grove Fire, Prairie Du Rocher Fire, and Med Star Ambulance Service. Sheeler’s body was discovered in an area adjacent to his property during the coordinated

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O'FALLON - Lauren Jackson, a woman who says she can't wait to make a difference in her students' lives, has accepted a position with the O’Fallon School District as a new Autism teacher at Estelle Kampmeyer Elementary. Jackson also said she has "always wanted to be a teacher ever since I was a little girl, and it’s surreal to have that dream come true.” Jackson attributes her university studies, practicum experience, and student teaching to preparing her to work with students of all abilities. She is very excited to join the O’Fallon School District 90 team. “I have appreciated the warm welcome I have received since I accepted my position,” she said. “Everyone has been so kind and has made me more than excited to begin this new chapter in my life.” Lauren loves to craft in her free time, spend time outdoors, and also spend time with her friends and family.

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ALTON - The eighth annual Trinity Festival is returning to Alton. Starting at 12 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, community members can come out to Milton Schoolhouse for the festival, featuring 16 bands and musicians, even more vendors, and lots of fun for a good cause. Proceeds from the festival go to Trinity’s Way, a local nonprofit that supports environmental and animal rights organizations in memory of Trinity Buel. “It’s all in Trinity’s name,” said Greg, one of the organizers. “That’s how this all started. She couldn’t live her own dreams anymore, so we’re trying to fulfill them for her.” Trinity Festival is an annual event that brings the community together to enjoy music and vendors. Previously hosted in Calhoun County, organizers decided to return to Alton this year and host the event at Milton Schoolhouse. There will be two stages at Milton, with performances from 12 p.m. to midnight on Aug. 2. You can

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JERSEYVILLE – A little bit of rain hasn’t stopped the Jersey County Fair from kicking off with a strong start this year. Fair President Phil Ringhausen said despite the rain delaying the Jersey County Fair Parade on Tuesday, the fairground festivities are now in full swing. He said last night’s free concert in the grandstands, and both of yesterday’s livestock shows, went well with even more exciting events on the schedule. Tonight’s Fair Queen Pageant is set for 7 to 11 p.m., and Ringhausen said there’s no shortage of contestants this year. “We never have a problem getting our Little Miss ,” he said, adding there are 16 Little Miss contestants in the 2025 Pageant. “They come out of the woodwork for that – but we also have six Senior contestants going tonight, so we ought to have a really nice pageant.” Rodeo fans can expect an even bigger and better show than last year, as Ringhausen said they went with a new promoter

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ALTON - The Lucy Haskell Playhouse has a few events lined up to celebrate Lucy’s legacy. From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, community members can stop by the playhouse in Middletown for an open house. Families can play old-fashioned games and tour the playhouse. This will be followed by Lucy’s birthday party from 6:30–8 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, where you can enjoy cake, ice cream, games, pony rides and more. “It’s building that sense of community,” said Sarah, one of the volunteers. “I just love the legacy of the Haskell family, the fact that Florence Haskell donated this house and playhouse and land to the City of Alton for the education and recreation of children. It’s beautiful to be able to continue that legacy for the family. I just love the sense of community that it builds for all of us.” All of the Lucy Haskell Playhouse events are completely free to attend. Organizers Sarah and Margaret

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GRANITE CITY — President Donald Trump announced in late May 2025 a revised partnership agreement between U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel, reversing earlier opposition to the acquisition that officially closed June 18, 2025. The deal includes commitments to keep U.S. Steel’s headquarters in Pittsburgh, maintain an American CEO, and ensure a majority of U.S. citizens on the board. Nippon Steel pledged $14 billion in U.S. investments, including $2.4 billion for facilities in Pennsylvania’s Mon Valley region. Despite these assurances, officials and community leaders in Granite City and Illinois state legislators have raised concerns about the future of the local U.S. Steel plant. The legislators are on both a statewide and a national level. Granite City Mayor Michael C. Parkinson has expressed frustration over the absence of clear investment plans for Granite City Works, which reopened in 2018 following President Trump’s monumental visit to the community and the steel

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If your ash tree’s canopy is thinning, bark is flaking off in patches, or woodpeckers are suddenly interested in your trunk, you may be seeing the signs of an emerald ash borer infestation. These bright green beetles may look harmless—no bigger than a penny—but their larvae are devastating tree killers, and they’ve been sweeping through the Midwest for years. In late spring, adult emerald ash borers lay eggs in the cracks of your ash tree’s bark. When the eggs hatch, the tiny larvae chew their way under the surface and begin tunneling through the soft layer just beneath the bark. That’s where your ash moves water and nutrients. As the larvae feed, they leave behind winding S-shaped galleries that slowly choke the tree from the inside out. Over time, your tree’s upper branches begin to die off, bark splits open, and shoots sprout directly from the trunk—a desperate attempt by the tree to survive. Left untreated, the damage builds year afte

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From lively summer camps and vibrant county fairs to engaging cooking classes and exciting concerts, the variety of events happening across the Riverbend offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for family fun, community gatherings, or unique local experiences, there’s plenty to explore and celebrate. For a full listing of upcoming events, be sure to visit https://www.riverbender.com/events/ . If you want to make sure even more of the region is aware of your event email cj@riverbender.com and explore our range of Event Promotion Services! Featured GGCA Summer Camp invites kids ages 3 to 12 to embark on an unforgettable adventure with their 2025 Summer Camp themed "Bible Explorer: Trek through Truth!" This engaging camp, held at Greater Glory Christian Academy in Alton, Illinois, offers a full schedule of outdoor and water games, crafts, weekly field trips to local attractions and the NCG Cinema, and daily hot meals. Operating weekdays from Jun

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