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HIGHLAND — As students return to classrooms in the Highland School District, local law enforcement is emphasizing the importance of safe driving in school zones. The Highland Police Department has assigned two School Resource Officers (SROs) to support the district’s schools this academic year. Officer Chris Clewis, who joined the department in June 2008, serves as the SRO for Highland Elementary and Primary Schools. A Southern Illinois University Edwardsville graduate with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Clewis brings a diverse set of skills to his role, including certifications as a Crisis Intervention Team member, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Taser Instructor, Drone Pilot, Gracie Ground Fighting Instructor, and Knife Defense Instructor. He is also an investigator with the Major Case Squad and an instructor at the Southwestern Illinois Police Academy. Officer Nathan Biggs serves as the SRO for Highland High and Middle Schools. Biggs earned a bachelor’s

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EDWARDSVILLE - During their monthly work session on Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education discussed plans to abate and renovate Hamel Elementary School. In 2023, District #7 voters approved a $100 million bond proposal to improve district facilities. As part of this bond, Hamel Elementary School is to undergo asbestos abatement and renovations. On Aug. 11, 2025, Justin Placek with BLDD Architects and Ryan Savage with Holland Construction provided an update to the Board about potential projects to abate and renovate Hamel. They explained that these plans were “conceptual” and could be adjusted as needed. Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton said that construction is projected to cost $4.2 million. He said there are a few options that the Board can consider, including building a new classroom wing or using part of a pod as a cafeteria space. Board member Matt Breihan said the renditions “look great on paper,”

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ALTON - The American Diabetes Association (ADA) announced the recognition of Alton Memorial Hospital through their Education Recognition Program (ERP). The ADA’s ERP certificate assures that educational services meet the National Standards for diabetes self-management education and support. The corresponding intervention provided is evidence-based and outcome driven. Services apply for recognition voluntarily and ADA-ERP recognition lasts for four years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) National Diabetes Fact Sheet, there are over 38 million people, or 11.6%, of the U.S. population who have diabetes. While an estimated 29.7 million have been diagnosed, unfortunately 8.7 million people are not aware they have this disease. Each day, nearly 3,300 Americans are diagnosed with diabetes. Many will first learn they have diabetes when they are treated for one of its life-threatening complications—heart disease, stroke, kidney

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The LST 325 lands on the city riverfront Sept. 18-22 ALTON - A piece of world maritime history, the LST 325, will dock at the Alton Riverfront Sept. 18-22 and be open for public tours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Admission for these self-guided tours is $20 for adults, $10 for those 6 – 17 years of age and free for kids 5 and under. Visitors to the LST 325 will meet the ship’s crew who will provide detailed descriptions of the role the LST ships played during U.S. wars and honor the men who served on the ships. The ship, which was used in the invasion at Omaha Beach on D Day, is one of 1,051 LSTs built in the U.S. during World War II, and is the only remaining working LST in the country. “This is an important piece of our World War II history and we are pleased to welcome the LST 325 to Alton,” Cory Jobe, President/CEO of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau said. The LST ships could carry 20 Sherman tanks in the hold of the ship and 30 to

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ST. CLAIR COUNTY – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with and received a briefing at Scott Air Force Base from U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) leadership, including Deputy Commander Lieutenant General Jered Helwig and Director of Global Patient Movement Operations and Command Surgeon Colonel (Dr.) Christopher Backus. She also met with Commanders of the 126th Air Refueling Wing, 932nd Airlift Wing and the 375th Air Mobility Wing. During her meetings, Duckworth emphasized her steadfast support for the base’s missions and discussed transportation and mobility priorities. Photos from today’s visit are available on Senator Duckworth’s website. “Scott Air Force Base is an important driver of our state’s economy, a key component of our country’s national security efforts and a critical support network for the individuals who serve—along with their families,” Duckworth said. “The work

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS — As the new school year begins, Fairview Heights Police are stepping up efforts to ensure student safety through increased patrols and specialized training for teachers. In preparation for the return of students, teachers have been participating in “Stop the Bleed” training, a program designed to equip them with skills to respond effectively in emergency situations. Meanwhile, School Resource Officers have been preparing for weeks to foster strong, positive relationships with students and parents. Fairview Heights Police are also urging drivers to exercise caution by slowing down in school zones, stopping for school buses, and allowing children extra time to cross streets safely. Officers will be increasing their presence in and around schools throughout the community to help maintain a secure environment. “Let’s work together for a safe and successful school year,” the department said in a statement.

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GLEN CARBON - The Glen Carbon Police Department has launched a new K9 patrol program with the addition of A’to, a 2-year-old German Shepherd trained in narcotics detection and tracking. This initiative, made possible by a $15,000 donation from Dr. Mark Eavenson of Multicare Specialists, aims to enhance crime prevention, offender apprehension, and officer and community safety. Officer Louis Mitchelar, A’to’s handler, is currently undergoing training with the dog at the K9 academy and is expected to return to full patrol duty with A’to in May 2017. The program will also include community engagement activities such as demonstrations, security at special events, and assistance to neighboring police departments requiring a trained patrol K9. The Glen Carbon Police Department expressed gratitude to Dr. Eavenson for his support, noting that his contribution allows the department to establish and operate the K9 program independently without using the Village’s

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PIASA - Cason Robinson, a sophomore at Southwestern High School, emerged as a standout athlete on the boys’ track and field team this spring. Robinson has competed in sprint and middle-distance events, including the 100-meter, 200-meter, and 400-meter dashes, as well as several relay races. His consistent improvement throughout the season earned him the second-most points on the team and the Outstanding Sophomore Award. Robinson recorded an 11.2-second split at the IHSA 1A Sectional Meet held at Virden (North Mac) and posted an open best time of 12.04 seconds in the 100 meters earlier this spring. He also achieved personal records of 24.96 seconds in the 200 meters and 57.14 seconds in the 400 meters. In addition, Robinson cleared 5 feet 8.75 inches in the high jump in the Riverton Meet. After the track season concluded, Robinson plans to apply his sprinting speed and leaping ability to football, where he will play as a wide receiver and defensive back for the Piasa Birds in

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Did you know that only about 10% of the global population is left-handed? Despite being a minority, left-handers have made remarkable contributions to art, science, and culture throughout history. Yet, many everyday tools and gadgets are designed with right-handed users in mind, often overlooking the unique challenges and preferences of lefties. National Left-Handers Day, observed annually on August 13th, offers a special opportunity to recognize and celebrate the distinctiveness of left-handed individuals. One engaging way to honor this day is through creative DIY crafts that highlight left-handedness, promote inclusivity, and encourage hands-on appreciation of this unique trait. Understanding Left-Handedness: More Than Just Which Hand You Use Left-handedness is not merely a preference but a neurological trait linked to brain lateralization. Studies suggest that lefties often develop enhanced spatial awareness and creativity, which can be nurtured through tailored activities. However,

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August 13th stands as a day marked by a tapestry of pivotal events that have shaped the course of human history across the globe. One of the most globally significant events occurred on August 13, 1961, when East Germany began constructing the Berlin Wall. Erected overnight, this formidable barrier physically and ideologically divided East and West Berlin, symbolizing the tensions of the Cold War era. The Wall not only separated families and friends but also became a stark representation of the struggle between communist and capitalist ideologies. Its impact resonated worldwide, influencing diplomatic policies and shaping the lives of millions until its fall in 1989. Going further back, August 13, 1521, marked the fall of Tenochtitlán, the capital of the Aztec Empire, to Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés. This event signaled a dramatic shift in the Americas, leading to Spanish colonization and profound changes in indigenous cultures, demographics, and

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GOODLETTSVILLE, Tenn. - Dollar General Corp. is recalling three lots of its 8-ounce Clover Valley Instant Coffee because the product may contain glass.The affected coffee has the package UPC 876941004069 and the following lot numbers and best-by dates: Lot L-5163 / Best by Dec. 13, 2026 Lot L-5164 / Best by Dec. 13, 2026 Lot L-5165 / Best by Dec. 14, 2026 Lot and best-by information are printed around the neck of the container. The coffee was sold exclusively at Dollar General stores between July 9 and July 21 in 45 states: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia,

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ALTON - Scott Harper, coach of the Alton High boys baseball team, highlighted the contributions of Jack Puent, No. 23, following the recent season. Puent, a 6-foot-1, 178-pound center fielder and pitcher, played a significant role for the Redbirds. He is an Auto Butler Male Athlete of the Month for Alton. “Puent stepped up and did a good job on the mound, and next year will play into an even bigger role,” Harper said, emphasizing the athlete’s impact both as a solid hitter and a top-notch pitcher throughout the season." Coach Harper said he expects Puent will be one of the keys to Alton's success in baseball next spring and will be a pivotal player.

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GLEN CARBON — Natalie Beck has distinguished herself as a versatile athlete at Father McGivney Catholic High School, excelling in soccer, tennis, and basketball. As a junior during the 2024-2025 school year, Beck played a key role in the soccer team’s success and is set to return for the 2026 season. Beck’s impact was especially notable on the soccer field, where she played center forward and served as a primary offensive option for the Griffins. Matt McVicar, McGivney’s soccer coach, praised her work ethic and demeanor, describing her as “soft spoken” and “a good example of what it takes to be a McGivney soccer player.” He added that Beck gives “100 percent” effort in every aspect of the game. Beck is a Byron, Carlson, Petri & Kalb Female Athlete of the Month for the Griffins. In addition to soccer, Beck has achieved extraordinary success in girls' tennis, partnering with doubles player Kennedi Taylor to secure multiple

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EDWARDSVILLE — Grace Brown, a recent senior graduate at Metro East Lutheran High School, recently wrapped up her athletic career as a versatile member of the girls' soccer, cheer and dance teams. Brown was a player who could play all over the soccer field for the Knights this spring. She earned recognition as the BJ’s Printables Female Athlete of the Month for the Knights for her soccer, cheer and dance efforts for MELHS. “Grace was a player who could come in and play multiple positions for us,” said Rob Stock, head girls soccer coach at Metro East Lutheran. “This was her first year playing soccer, and she did a great job learning the game and added a lot to the team.” Brown’s contributions across multiple sports highlighted her adaptability and commitment throughout her final year at MELHS.

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Today’s high will reach 85°F with a low of 66°F. Expect partly sunny skies with some humidity throughout the day. Winds will be light, coming from the north-northwest at around 6 mph. The UV index is very high at 9, so don’t forget your sunscreen if you’re spending time outdoors. Allergy indexes show low grass and mold levels, but ragweed is moderate, so allergy sufferers should take note. Tomorrow’s forecast calls for a high of 86°F and a low of 68°F with intermittent clouds. It will be humid again, with a moderate UV index of 8. Winds will shift to the northeast at about 6 mph. It’s a good idea to stay hydrated and take breaks if working or exercising outside. For more details, visit https://riverbender.com/weather.

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GLEN CARBON – Three new officers for the Glen Carbon Police Department were sworn in on Tuesday night. Chief Todd Link spoke at Tuesday’s Village Board meeting about each officer’s background and experience before they were sworn in by Mayor Bob Marcus. Officer Brennan Bauer, Badge # G72 A 25-year-old Troy native and Triad High School graduate, Bauer graduated in 2022 from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Business with a specialization in Cybersecurity. While technically hired by the department in September of 2024, Link said Bauer officially graduated from the Police Academy in April of 2025 and recently re-completed each phase of his field training with the GCPD. “He is frequently compliment ed by his sergeants and other trainers for his attention to detail, his willingness to lea r n, and his strong work ethic,” Link said of Bauer

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EAST ALTON — A powerful thunderstorm swept through Madison and St. Clair counties on the afternoon of Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, causing widespread power outages and prompting utility crews to respond quickly to restore service. The storm, marked by intense lightning and thunder, began impacting the area around 2 p.m., with Wood River and East Alton experiencing the first reported outages. Ameren Illinois reported that at the height of the storm, approximately 10,768 customers were without power across Madison and St. Clair counties. East Alton and Wood River were among the hardest hit communities. Brian Bretsch, a spokesperson for Ameren Illinois, said the utility’s headquarters in Collinsville monitored the storm closely as it rolled through. “We did have quite a storm roll through with thunder and lightning,” Bretsch said. He noted that at about 3:30 p.m., the number of customers without power peaked. In East Alton, about 7,900 customers in Madison County

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GODFREY – Approximately 175 students have been awarded scholarships to attend Lewis and Clark Community College for the 2025-2026 academic year, for a grand total of $590,000 awarded. The awardees were among more than 570 students from throughout the college’s district who applied for scholarships through Lewis and Clark Community College and the Lewis and Clark Community College Foundation. These scholarships provide opportunities for students of all ages, abilities, levels of academic achievement, and career paths. “Scholarships do more than ease financial burdens – they open doors to opportunity, empower students to stay the course, and remind them that their goals are worth an investment,” said Lewis and Clark Community College Foundation Director of Development Debby Edelman. The online scholarship application is available each year beginning Oct. 1 on the college’s website, https://www.lc.edu/pay-for-college/financial-aid/types-of-aid/scholarships.html

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GRANITE CITY – A Granite City resident is among two individuals facing felony mob action charges after allegedly attacking the same victim. Jesus A. Lopez, 26, of Granite City, was charged on Aug. 5, 2025 with a Class 4 felony count of mob action. On Aug. 3, 2025, Lopez allegedly acted together with another individual, Luis C. Atondo, in repeatedly striking the same victim about the head and body. Their use of force was not justified by law and disturbed the public peace, resulting in the mob action charges filed against both. Atondo, a 29-year old St. Louis resident, also faces a Class 4 felony count of mob action for his role acting together with Lopez to repeatedly strike the same victim about the head and body. The Granite City Police Department presented both cases against Lopez and Atondo, both of whom were granted pretrial release from custody. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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ALTON - As a certified diabetes care and education specialist (CDCES), Jennifer Adcock can help patients gain control of their diabetes. Adcock, RN, BSN, CDCES, works with OSF Medical Group in the endocrinology department. She sees patients with diabetes every day, and they talk about how best to manage the condition. On a recent appearance on “Our Daily Show!” with C.J. Nasello , Adcock cleared up some common misconceptions about diabetes and shared what happens in an appointment with her. “My primary role is to provide education and support to individuals with diabetes, and then I work closely with those patients to help them understand and manage their condition,” Adcock said. “Really, it’s just what that patient needs in particular.” Adcock encourages patients to bring their supportive loved ones with them to appointments. She noted that in addition to helping patients manage their medications and blood sugars, she also assist

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