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(Photos and Video by 618 Drone Service). WORDEN - Wordi Gras, a festive celebration dubbed the "Redneck Mardi Gras," took place on Saturday, March 1, 2025, in Worden, a small community along Route 66 in Madison County. The event, which began at noon, featured live music, food and drink vendors, and a parade that was reported to be the longest in the event's history. Rick and Nikki Landrem, local residents and organizers, noted that this year’s festivities were marked by a smooth operation and a family-friendly atmosphere. “All had fun and another year of no fights, everything went off smooth, no problems,” said Rick and Nikki. The elaborate parade commenced at 3 p.m. Saturday, showcasing a variety of floats, tractors, trucks, and cars as it wound through downtown, concluding at Civic Park. Participants included both local residents and visitors, with some traveling from out of state to enjoy the festivities. According to organizers, many attendees preferred

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ALTON - The Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club’s 39th annual Chili Chowdown will raise money for local students and community projects. On Monday, March 3, 2025, community members can stop by Main Street United Methodist Church in Upper Alton for a dine-in or carry-out chili meal. The Rotary Club will serve chili from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and then again from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dennis Wilson, who chairs the event, explained that the goal is to improve the Alton-Godfrey community. “We’re very much into the community and trying to make it a better place,” he said. “It’s what Rotary stands for, making a better community and service above self. The idea is we all do a little something for everybody else and make a better world.” Tickets to the Chili Chowdown can be purchased at the door for $10. All proceeds go back to the Rotary Club’s projects, including their scholarships and literacy programs for the local schools. The Rotary Club sponsors

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EAST ALTON - Today, Governor JB Pritzker, Wieland Rolled Products North America, and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) joined local leaders and partners to celebrate the groundbreaking of Wieland’s modernized East Alton facility. Wieland’s $500 million investment in this modernization project will retain 800 jobs throughout Illinois, enabling the company to increase production of critical copper and copper alloy components that are used in electric vehicles (EVs), EV charging infrastructure, and renewable energy production while supporting the state's clean energy economy. “Today, we continue Wieland’s centuries-long journey by breaking ground on this major new expansion – a $500 million company investment in the future of Illinois and a driver of growth and opportunity in East Alton for years to come,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “More than just a job creator and economic driver – Wieland has been

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CHICAGO - In recognition of National Consumer Protection Week, Attorney General Kwame Raoul today announced the Top 10 consumer complaints his office received last year and highlighted his office’s work to protect consumers. For the fourth year in a row, complaints related to home repairs and remodeling topped the list while identity theft complaints remained second. Consumer debt came in third, and according to Attorney General Raoul, the issue is particularly relevant this year as he continues to defend the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) against efforts by the Trump administration and Elon Musk to defund and disband it. The CFPB is an independent agency that oversees big banks, lenders, credit card companies and mortgage servicers, and ensures companies follow federal consumer protection laws. “During National Consumer Protection Week, and throughout the year, I encourage Illinois residents to visit my office’s website and social media channels t

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CHICAGO - Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs marked Casimir Pulaski Day by announcing his office has purchased $15 million in Republic of Poland Bonds. It is the first time the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office has invested in the Republic of Poland. “Chicago and the suburbs are home to one of the biggest Polish populations in the world. Our state also has strong ties to Poland through trade, culture, a National Guard partnership, and sister cities relationships,” Frerichs said in making the announcement at the Polish Museum of America Casimir Pulaski Day event in Chicago. “Republic of Poland Bonds provide stable returns and are a strong investment for Illinois.” Treasurer Frerichs bought Republic of Poland Bonds to diversify the state’s portfolio and achieve stable returns from a strong investment. The bonds will mature in four years with an interest rate of 4.625% and a current yield of 4.831%. This outpaces the four-year U.S. Treasury

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EAST ALTON - Today, Governor JB Pritzker, Wieland Rolled Products North America, and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) joined local leaders and partners to celebrate the groundbreaking of Wieland’s modernized East Alton facility. Wieland’s $500 million investment in this modernization project will retain 800 jobs throughout Illinois, enabling the company to increase production of critical copper and copper alloy components that are used in electric vehicles (EVs), EV charging infrastructure, and renewable energy production while supporting the state's clean energy economy. “Today, we continue Wieland’s centuries-long journey by breaking ground on this major new expansion – a $500 million company investment in the future of Illinois and a driver of growth and opportunity in East Alton for years to come,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “More than just a job creator and economic driver – Wieland has been a communit

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CHICAGO - Attorney General Kwame Raoul today led a coalition of 22 attorneys general in filing a motion for enforcement in their ongoing lawsuit against the Trump administration’s illegal and destructive freeze of federal funding. Despite multiple court orders, the administration has continued to block hundreds of millions of dollars in grants to the states from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This funding freeze threatens critical emergency preparedness and recovery programs to address terrorist attacks, mass shootings, wildfires, floods, cybersecurity threats and more. “Every state relies on federal funding to help rebuild communities and allow families to recover from the devastation caused by natural disasters,” Raoul said. “In recent years, we have seen the increased occurrence and strength of natural disasters, which makes access to federal funds through FEMA perhaps more important than ever. I will continue to join with my fellow attorneys

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GLEN CARBON - The Junior Service Club of Edwardsville Glen Carbon is pleased to present their International Women’s Trivia Night on Saturday, March 15, 2025. In honor of International Women’s Month, join us for an exciting and empowering International Women’s Trivia Night, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of women across the globe. This event will take place at the Glen Carbon American Legion, located at 190 S. Main Street in Glen Carbon. Doors open at 6 p.m. with trivia starting at 7 p.m. The event promises to be an evening of fun and will feature diverse categories highlighting influential women from various fields, including politics, entertainment, sports, literature, science, and more. Whether you’re a trivia enthusiast or simply want to test your knowledge of women throughout history, this event is sure to inspire and educate. Highlights of the Evening: Engaging trivia questions that celebrate the lives and achievements of women worldwide

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GRANITE CITY — The City of Granite City celebrated its annual Mardi Gras festival on Saturday, March 1, 2025, marking a successful event that brought together community members for a day of festivities. The celebration featured a parade that showcased local creativity and spirit, with participation from various sponsors, vendors, and residents. The event was characterized by sunny weather and a vibrant atmosphere. “We are so thankful for this wonderful tradition in Granite City, and it’s not possible without each and every one of you,” Granite City Mardi Gras Parade organizers said, expressing gratitude to the community for their involvement. The parade included a competition for float designs, with awards given to the top three entries. Unreal Construction secured first place, followed by Hilltop RV Campground in second, and Granite City Township in third. Granite City Mardi Gras organizers had words of appreciation for those who contributed to the event,

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CHICAGO - Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a coalition of 20 attorneys general, today filed an amicus brief in support of a challenge to President Donald Trump’s unlawful attempt to remove a member of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Raoul and the coalition filed their brief in Wilcox v. Trump, in support of NLRB member Gwynne Wilcox. The coalition argues that if allowed to stand, the attempt would undermine protections for workers and destabilize federal labor law. “The National Labor Relations Board helps to ensure that workers in Illinois and across the country are afforded the rights they are entitled to under federal law,” Raoul said. “Removing the board’s ability to function creates a regulatory vacuum that would undermine workers’ rights and prevent the NLRB from ensuring stable labor relations. I stand with my fellow attorneys general in asking the court to allow this independent body to continue its crucial work.”

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WOOD RIVER - Midwest Members Credit Union is proud to sponsor the “Oiler of the Month” program at EAWR High School. A Senior student is selected each month by members of EAWR faculty. Each student is awarded a certificate and a Subway gift card. The Seniors selected each month will have the opportunity to compete for $1,000 “Oiler of the Year” scholarship at the end of the school year. February's winner is Isaac Thornton. Isaac is a Senior at EAWR and is involved in Football, Bowling, Golf, Student Council, Spirit Club, Senior Mentors, National Honor Society and RBGA YAC. Isaac has received honors with The National Honor Society, Captain of the Football Team two years and Midwest Members Credit Union Male Athlete of the Month two times. In Isaac's free time, he enjoys being a volunteer assistant coach for the JFL (middle school football team) and working with various non-profits and community events to help our local community. After graduation, Isaac is planning

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CARLINVILLE - Blackburn College’s Department of Music and Theatre is thrilled to announce an exciting lineup of performances for the spring 2025 season. From student recitals to musical productions and choral collaborations, these events will showcase the exceptional talent and dedication of Blackburn’s most melodic students and faculty. These events are open to the public and audiences of all ages. Studio Recital | Clegg Chapel, Hudson Hall Sunday, March 9 at 2:00 pm The spring season kicks off with the Studio Recital, an opportunity for students in applied voice and piano lessons to share their growth and artistry. Featuring an eclectic mix of genres—including classical, showtunes, and pop—the recital highlights the dedication of students as they present their work from the past academic year. Voice students will be accompanied by Professor of Music Dr. Joseph Welch. Spring Musical: Once | Bothwell Auditorium April 4 at 7:00 pm, April 5 a

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY - St. Louis County Police Department Bureau of Crimes Against Persons detectives are investigating a homicide near West Florissant Avenue and Dunn Road that resulted in the death of an adult male. At 7:36 p.m., on March 2, 2025, St. Louis County police officers from the North County Precinct responded to a call for service for a shooting victim in the area of Graham Road and two additional victims at an area hospital. Officers determined that all individuals were shot in the area of West Florissant Avenue and Dunn Road. An adult male was pronounced deceased at an area hospital. The other individual who responded to the hospital suffered life threatening injuries but is expected to survive at this time. The third individual located at Graham Road was transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries. No suspects are currently in custody. The investigation is ongoing. Additional information will be disseminated as it becomes available. Please contact

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will now send out a monthly update of upcoming IDNR events and noteworthy items. March 1 Illinois fishing licenses go on sale Statewide Illinois residents 16 and older may purchase a fishing license for only $15. Visit the IDNR website for a full list of fees and available discounts. March 1-2 ACUI Spring Championships World Shooting and Recreational Complex Sparta | Randolph County The Spring Central Midwest Conference Championships is part of the Clay Targets Shotgun Bowl Series. This event will feature American, sporting, and doubles events. View all World Shooting and Recreational Complex events online . March 1-2 Black History Hikes Lincoln’s Tomb State Historic Site Springfield | Sangamon County Black history hikes at Oak Ridge Cemetery focus on Springfield’s Black community. Hikes begin at 2 p.m. Water and walking shoes are recommended. Find out more on

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ALTON – Creativity and mental health advocacy come together in an inspiring collaboration between Mooneyham Art, The Milton Schoolhouse, and Centerstone. Alton Art Expo is a groundbreaking exhibition and community gathering that highlights the healing power of artistic expression. The event will take place on Saturday, March 29th from Noon to 7 pm and Sunday, March 30th from Noon to 5 pm at The Milton Schoolhouse, providing an immersive experience where visitors can explore art’s role in mental health awareness and recovery. Art has long been a tool for self-expression, resilience, and healing. This event creates a welcoming space for artists and community members to engage in meaningful conversations about well-being, creativity, and personal growth. Through a curated selection of artwork, interactive discussions, and expert-led programming, attendees will gain insight into the intersection of art and mental health. “Bringing together artists, mental health professionals,

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Lottery is once again partnering with the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling (ICPG) to support March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month in Illinois. Held annually, Problem Gambling Awareness Month is a nationwide initiative that aims to raise public awareness of the availability of problem gambling prevention, treatment, and recovery services. “At the Illinois Lottery, we are committed to encouraging responsible play every day," said Harold Mays, Director of the Illinois Lottery. “While most people gamble for entertainment, we understand that it can become a challenge for some. This month, we are focused on increasing awareness of the potential warning signs of problem gambling and ensuring people know where to turn for help.” The Illinois Lottery’s 2025 Problem Gambling Awareness Month campaign, themed " Help and hope are here: Call 1-800-GAMBLER ," seeks to foster greater awareness and empathy, break down barriers

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JERSEYVILLE - The Jersey County Historical Society will host its 2025 annual meeting on Sunday, March 16, at 1:30 p.m. in the museum located behind the Cheney Mansion at 601 N. State St. in Jerseyville. This event is free of charge and open to the public. The meeting will include a recap of 2024, plans for upcoming year, election of board members, and the announcement of the 2025 Cheney House scholarship winner. Guest speaker Rod Jackson will give a presentation based on a trip from Alton to Grafton, share the histories of communities that sprung up along the Mighty Mississippi River, and tell about the industries that attracted people to this area. Guests are invited to stay after the meeting to enjoy refreshments.

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Did you know that the average American family spends nearly 30 hours a month planning, shopping for, and cooking meals? That’s equivalent to almost a full workweek dedicated to getting dinner on the table! For busy families juggling work, school, and extracurricular activities, this can feel overwhelming. However, with effective meal planning strategies, families can save time, reduce stress, and even promote healthier eating habits. Let’s dive into some practical meal planning tips that can transform your kitchen chaos into a well-oiled machine. Understanding the Importance of Meal Planning Meal planning is not just about deciding what to eat; it’s a strategic approach to managing time, finances, and health. A well-thought-out plan can help families avoid the last-minute scramble for takeout, which often leads to unhealthy food choices and unexpected expenses. By dedicating a little time upfront, families can enjoy nutritious meals that cater to everyone’s

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JERSEYVILLE - Students from Jersey Community Unit School District No. 100 recently showcased their skills at the I.D.E.A. Regional Drafting Competition, which was held at Lewis & Clark Community College. The Lewis and Clark event featured a variety of drafting challenges. Among the Jersey participants, Cooper Gillis earned a third-place award in the "3D Architectural CAD" category, while Ella Smith also secured third place in "3D Assembly Modeling." Corah Derrick achieved notable recognition with a second-place finish in "3D Architectural CAD." The competition highlighted the students' hard work and dedication, with all participants receiving commendations for their outstanding efforts. Drew Short, a faculty member, expressed gratitude to Lewis & Clark Community College for facilitating this opportunity for the students.

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JERSEY — A fugitive was apprehended by local law enforcement on Feb. 23, 2025, after being spotted near a residence in Delhi. Shawn A. Wood, 35, was wanted by both the Alton Police Department and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office when Jersey County Sheriff’s Sgt. Kevin Ayres and Deputy Travis Trisler observed him walking along Old U.S. Highway 67. As Deputy Trisler approached Wood, he fled on foot but was quickly apprehended and subdued on the ground until Sgt. Ayres arrived to assist. During the arrest, authorities discovered that Wood was armed with a loaded handgun concealed in his wristband. Additionally, several grams of methamphetamine were found in his pocket. Following the arrest, law enforcement sought and executed a search warrant at the residence in Delhi where Wood had been staying. The search yielded several cannabis plants, assorted drug paraphernalia, and multiple open vehicle titles. Jersey County State’s Attorney Ben Goetten subsequently charge

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