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SPRINGFIELD – Autumn begins Monday, Sept. 22, marking the official beginning of fall events at Illinois state parks, historic sites and museums. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources invites the public to enjoy the following seasonal events and activities. Visit our events calendar online for more events and updates. Sept. 20 and 27; Oct. 4, 11, 18, and 25 Autumn Guided Nature Walks Illinois Beach State Park | Lake County Join the naturalist at Illinois Beach State Park on Saturdays in October for a guided autumn nature walk. Meet at the park’s nature center at 10:30 a.m. This is a free event, and no registration is required. Mobility-friendly tours and weekday walks are also available by calling the center at 847-748-4713. Sept. 21 Fall Equinox Sunrise Observance Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site | Madison County Visit Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site near Collinsville at 6:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 21 to celebrate the start of fall in the Norther

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ALTON - During their regular meeting on Sept. 16, 2025, the Alton Community Unit School District #11 Board of Education honored the district’s Early Childhood Center, which received the Gold Circle of Quality Award. Superintendent Elaine Kane explained that ExeleRate Illinois has created a common set of standards for all early learning programs in Illinois. This year, the Alton Early Childhood Center achieved the highest recognition from the ExeleRate Illinois program. “It is my honor this evening to recognize the staff at the Early Childhood Center for an outstanding accomplishment,” Kane said. “This demonstrates excellence in every category.” The ExeleRate Illinois standards cover instructional excellence, family services, staff qualifications, professional development and program administration. By achieving the Gold Circle of Quality Award, the Early Childhood Center has exceeded all of these benchmarks. The Board of Education recognized

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) announced today that its Division of Professional Regulation (DPR) has been awarded the 2025 Regulatory Excellence Award by the Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation (CLEAR). The CLEAR Regulatory Excellence Award is presented annually to regulatory bodies worldwide that demonstrate outstanding innovation, vision, and measurable results in protecting the public while serving professionals. This prestigious international honor recognizes DPR’s transformative leadership in professional regulation by modernizing licensure processes, reducing barriers for applicants, and elevating customer service for more than 1.2 million licensed professionals across Illinois. “Receiving CLEAR’s Regulatory Excellence Award is a proud moment for the State of Illinois and a powerful recognition of the dedication, innovation, and vision of our Division of Professional Regulation,” sai

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More than 230 years after its signing, the U.S. Constitution remains the world’s oldest written national constitution still in use. This remarkable document laid the foundation for American governance and has influenced countless democracies worldwide. Every year, the United States commemorates this enduring legacy on Constitution Day, a celebration that honors the signing and principles of the Constitution. Yet, many are unfamiliar with the history and traditions surrounding this important observance. The Origins of Constitution Day Constitution Day, officially recognized on September 17, marks the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. But its journey to becoming a national observance was neither immediate nor straightforward. Initially, the Constitution’s significance was celebrated informally by various groups and institutions. It wasn’t until 1952 that Congress passed legislation establishing “Citizenship Day” to recognize th

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September 17 stands out in history as a day marked by landmark moments that have shaped nations, inspired revolutions, and propelled humanity forward in science and culture. Arguably the most impactful event associated with September 17 is the signing of the United States Constitution in 1787. This document laid the foundation for the American system of government and has influenced democratic frameworks worldwide. Delegates convened at the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia, after months of debate, to finalize the Constitution, establishing checks and balances and a federal system that endures today. Celebrated annually as Constitution Day in the United States, this event symbolizes the commitment to rule of law and democratic governance. Moving back in time, September 17, 1862, witnessed the Battle of Antietam during the American Civil War, the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. Fought near Sharpsburg, Maryland, this clash resulted in nearly 23,000 casualties.

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JERSEYVILLE – The City of Jerseyville is seeking $600,000 in state grant funds to help offset the cost of major repairs needed at Donor Pool. Parks and Recreation Director Tyler Hermens announced last spring that significant repairs are needed at Donor Pool after 25 years of operation. The city is reportedly seeking funding assistance for the installation of new dive stands, upgrades to the existing wading pool, and repairs to minimize water loss from the main pool structure. Last week, city officials shared a Change.org petition with Jerseyville residents to show support for the pool improvements. As of Tuesday, the petition had collected over 500 signatures, indicating a strong level of community support which may increase the city’s chances of grant approval. Public Works Director Bob Manns said the city is applying for an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). The renovation of swimming

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BELLEVILLE - At approximately 1:15 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025, a Belleville Police Department School Resource Officer and staff at Belleville West High School were alerted to a student possibly possessing a firearm on campus. Belleville Police said the student was immediately separated from others, and a search conducted by the officer resulted in the seizure of a firearm. The juvenile is currently in custody at the Belleville Police Department pending further court proceedings. Authorities emphasized that the safety of students and staff was the highest priority throughout the incident. Belleville Police said there is no known threat to any individuals, and officials believe the situation to be isolated. The investigation remains ongoing. The Belleville Police Department expressed gratitude to the student who reported the situation and underscored the importance of the collaborative relationship between the police department and school staff. Due to the student’s

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CAHOKIA HEIGHTS – Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced a Cahokia Heights, Illinois man was sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material. The case is part of Raoul’s ongoing work, in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies and local law enforcement officials throughout Illinois, to apprehend offenders who download and trade child sexual abuse material online. Jamie Canter, 64, was sentenced today by St. Clair County Judge John O’Gara after pleading guilty to two counts of possession of child pornography, Class 1 felonies. “It is my hope that today’s sentence can help survivors and their families heal from the trauma they have experienced,” Raoul said. “My office will continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to protect Illinois children by identifying and holding offenders who prey on them accountable.” Raoul’s investigators conducted a search

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JERSEYVILLE - The Jersey County Historical Society will host their 34th annual Apple Festival. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, community members can come out to 601 N. State Street in Jerseyville to tour historical buildings and enjoy vendors, artisans, food, live music and more fun. Beth McGlasson from the Jersey County Historical Society expressed her excitement to welcome the Riverbend community. “We have a fabulous crowd. It really is sort of the fall kickoff event for Jerseyville,” she said. “It is something that so many people look forward to every year.” McGlasson shared that attendees can visit with over 30 vendors. There will be several artisans demonstrating their crafts, from quilting to making lye soap. From 9:30–11:30 a.m., Jersey Community High School’s choir will perform, followed by The Gibson Girls from 12–1 p.m. The afternoon will conclude with The Hetzel Family from 1–3 p.m. and Back in

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EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County Clerk Linda Andreas is continuing efforts to improve elections and streamline the voting and registration processes for county residents. “The staff in this office always strives to better serve constituents, taxpayers and voters,” Andreas said. “Elections are a chief function of the County Clerk’s Office, and we do everything in our power to ensure voters have a good experience when they exercise their right to cast a ballot.” Andreas said the Clerk’s Office has been working on election-system upgrades that might not be obvious to voters when they cast their ballots. But these upgrades are expected to streamline the voter-registration and voting processes, and reduce wait times at the polls for early voting. Early voting is an option which continues to grow in popularity. First, a new VRXG voter-registration software system is being implemented. It replaces an aging software system that was installed

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EDWARDSVILLE – Flooded neighborhoods and sewage backed up in homes were a few project updates that U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), along with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), spoke about during a Community Day on Friday, Sept. 12 at the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center. Duckworth and Budzinski addressed a crowd of approximately 100 people in the Multipurpose Room in Building D on the Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Campus. Metro East residents learned more about the latest updates on flood mitigation and water infrastructure improvements throughout Cahokia Heights, East St. Louis and the region. The legislators also shared their efforts at the federal level to bring funding and oversight to water infrastructure projects throughout the region, received status updates on ongoing improvement projects from USACE and local officials and heard again first-hand accounts of the difficulties facing

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EDWARDSVILLE - Third Judicial Circuit Associate Judge John Hackett was recently appointed to the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges Child Welfare and Juvenile Law Advisory Committee as well as the NCJFCJ International Committee. Judge Hackett is the state of Illinois’ only representative on both committees. The National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges is the oldest judicial membership organization in the country and provides all judges, courts, and related agencies involved with juvenile, family, and domestic violence cases with the latest knowledge and skills to improve the lives of the families and children. While assigned to the Child Welfare and Juvenile Law Advisory Committee, Judge Hackett will provide guidance to the NCJFCJ Board, membership and staff on initiatives and projects related to child abuse and neglect, in additional to juvenile justice matters. On the International Committee, Judge Hackett is responsible for developing and implementing

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BENLD - A Benld man previously convicted of domestic battery has been charged again with the same offense after allegedly attacking a member of his household. Donald E. Ruyle, 52, of Benld, was charged on Sept. 8, 2025, with one count of domestic battery, a Class 4 felony. On Sept. 5, 2025, Ruyle allegedly struck a household member in the face with his hand. Charging documents state Ruyle had previously been convicted of domestic battery in a 2024 case out of Macoupin County. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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WOOD RIVER - Community members have the chance to participate in several upcoming events sponsored by Wood River Main Street. In addition to the Wood River Food Truck Festival scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, the Wood River Main Street organization will host a City Wide Clean Up on Oct. 11, followed by a golf tournament fundraiser on Oct. 17. The fun culminates with the Downtown Trick-or-Treat event on Oct. 22, a favorite among residents. “I’ve said it a million times, communication and collaboration is key, and that’s really what we’re trying to do to make sure that everyone understands that we’re here for the entire community,” said Wood River Main Street Executive Director Kristen Burns. From 8–11 a.m. on Oct. 11, the City Wide Clean Up invites the community to do their part for Wood River. Community members can stop by the WRBA Office, Budget Signs, or Midwest Members Credit Union to pick up supplies and then begi

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BELLEVILLE — Robert J. Wedig, 74, of Mascoutah, has been charged with a Class 1 felony for failing to report an accident involving death in connection with a fatal hit-and-run that occurred on August 21, 2025, in St. Clair County. The charges were filed by the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s office on September 16, 2025. Wedig and his attorney were informed of the charges and appeared before Honorable Judge Rice at the St. Clair County courthouse to begin further court proceedings. The investigation was conducted by the Belleville Police Department. Wedig is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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WOOD RIVER - Wood River Main Street will host their annual Food Truck Festival this weekend. From 1–4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, community members can enjoy 11 food trucks, games, live music and more fun in downtown Wood River at Ferguson and Whitelaw. Kristen Burns, executive director of Wood River Main Street, expressed her excitement to host another great event. “That’s always one of our favorite events,” Burns said. “We always have great people, great food, great things going on.” Entry to the Food Truck Festival is free. Burns emphasized the “really cool variety” of the food trucks, from Jewel the Ice Cream Truck to Pig on a Wing. Attendees are encouraged to come hungry and ready to try new foods. Wood River will also welcome Riverbend Axe Throwing from East Alton. The business will bring their mobile axe-throwing bar for people to enjoy. Burns noted that while the business is headquartered in East Alton, the collaboratio

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With children back in school, that means parents are grappling with getting their children on a regular sleep routine. But for parents with children who have been diagnosed with ADHD, that’s no small task. As many as 70% of children with ADHD experience problems with sleep. The issues include bedtime anxiety or resistance, insomnia and delayed sleep – meaning their sleep cycle has shifted and they aren’t tired at bedtime. Kristin Mock, MD, is a family practice physician at OSF HealthCare who specializes in ADHD and pediatric sleep issues. She sees patients whose behaviors are often linked to ADHD; but they could also be a result of a lack of sleep. Unlike adults who have excessive sleepiness and fatigue, Dr. Mock says children with ADHD tend to have more behavioral issues such as acting out or temper tantrums. They have difficulties with behavior and focus and concentration, and they tend to get fidgety. So that begs the question – is the issue ADHD or a slee

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CASEYVILLE — Jacob A. Brewer, 39, of Freeburg, has been taken into custody following a confrontation with Caseyville police officers that occurred on Aug. 30, 2025, at a residence on Spicer Drive, according to the Caseyville Police Department. Officers were initially responding to an unrelated incident at the Spicer Drive location on Aug. 29, 2025, when Brewer fled on foot. At that time, his identity was unknown to the officers. A subsequent investigation revealed Brewer had multiple outstanding warrants, including charges of burglary, unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle, and obstructing justice. The following day, officers returned to the residence after receiving information that Brewer was staying in a shed behind the home, police said. Upon arrival, they made contact with the homeowner, who cooperated with the investigation. Officers observed a window-mounted air conditioning unit installed in the shed and attempted to communicate with Brewer, who was barricaded

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ALTON – Two Alton residents face felony charges in separate cases of home invasion and domestic battery. Phillip M. Schuyler, 39, of Alton, was charged on Sept. 12, 2025 with one count each of home invasion (a Class X felony) and domestic battery (a Class A misdemeanor). Schuyler allegedly entered the victim’s Alton residence without legal authority, knowing the victim was present, and intentionally caused injury to the home’s occupant. He reportedly struck the victim in the head, causing a laceration. According to the state’ petition to deny Schuyler’s pretrial release from custody, the victim reported that Schuyler forced his way into their residence and started destroying their property before striking the victim repeatedly. Officers observed property damage within the residence and injuries to the victim’s head which were “consistent with being struck.” The petition adds Schuyler was out on pretrial release from a prior felony

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SAINT LOUIS - Community members are invited to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at the Greater St. Louis Hispanic Festival. From Sept. 19–21, 2025, the festival promises a weekend of culture, music and fun at Soulard Park in St. Louis. Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 every year. The festival aims to celebrate the Hispanic community in St. Louis while engaging non-Hispanic community members and encouraging them to learn more. “We love celebrating our culture. It’s Hispanic Heritage Month, but we celebrate our heritage all year round,” said Elisa with the Greater St. Louis Hispanic Festival. The weekend kicks off on Friday, Sept. 19, with an educational day. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the festival will welcome over 500 students. Elisa noted that homeschooled kids and parents with younger children are more than welcome to attend, as well. During the educational period, students will receive a Lotería card, or a

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