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BENTON – This year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, in conjunction with the Effingham Police Department, the Southeastern Illinois Drug Task Force, the Effingham County Sheriff’s Department, and the Effingham County State’s Attorney’s Office, have prosecuted several methamphetamine dealers in the Effingham County area. “Trafficking drugs in southern Illinois will earn dealers a federal prison sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “Thanks to the efforts of our local law enforcement partners in the Effingham County area, less meth is circulating on the streets. We will continue to work together to eliminate drugs from our communities.” “These cases show what can be accomplished when local, county, and federal agencies work together toward a common goal,” said Effingham Police Chief Kurt Davis. “I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Effingham County Sheriff’s Department, the Southeastern

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ALTON - Jacoby Arts Center will host a special program for people with dementia. The “Opening Minds Through Art” program is a nationally-recognized initiative that pairs high school or college students with older adults living with dementia. Over the course of eight weeks, the two collaborate to make art projects together. Jacoby’s “Opening Minds Through Art” project runs from 10:30–11:30 a.m. every Saturday from Sept. 27, 2025, through Nov. 15, 2025. “It gives them an opportunity to create and have choice in life. As dementia progresses, people often lose the ability to make choices,” explained Chris, who serves as the program director. “People living with dementia can still function in ways. You might have to simplify it, simplify it some more, simplify it some more. But they still can create. They still can function and do something meaningful and purposeful.” Chris graduated from Maryville University with a degre

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VENICE - On Saturday, August 25, 2025, in Venice, Illinois, Natasha Thomas, a Venice mother, experienced a devastating loss when her only son, Jerry Lamont Haynes Jr., was fatally shot in his yard after returning from a birthday celebration for his young son. What should have been a day of joy turned into a tragic moment for the family. Haynes Jr.’s death has deeply affected those close to him, including his cousin Miranda Mosby, who is organizing a fundraiser to assist the family during this difficult time. Mosby emphasized the heavy burden Thomas carries as the primary caregiver for her aging parents in addition to coping with the loss of her son. “I am asking for the community for your help. I want to help lift this burden from my cousin,” Mosby said. She also noted that prayers and donations of any size are welcome to support the family. A GoFundMe page has been created to help cover funeral expenses and provide some relief to the grieving family. Click

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GALATIA – The Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Patrol Troop 10 and Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Zone 8 are investigating a fatal crash in Saline County. On August 8, 2025, at approximately 1:58 a.m., ISP Troopers responded to IL-34 about one mile west of Harco Road, near Galatia, in Saline County. A Chevrolet Silverado was traveling southbound on IL-34 when it drove off the roadway and into a ditch. The driver and one passenger were airlifted to a regional hospital with injuries. A second passenger was pronounced deceased on scene. The ISP Traffic Reconstruction Unit and DCI Special Agents responded to the scene. Unit 1 driver – Jacob C. Ahrens, 21-year-old male from Ridgway, IL Unit 1 passenger – Konner C. Pemberton, 20-year-old male from Ridgway, IL Unit 1 passenger – Mattix T. Sandifer, 20-year-old male from Ridgway, IL (deceased) ISP continues to investigate and is working closely with the Saline County State’s Attorney’s

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GRANITE CITY – A Granite City man faces felony charges after allegedly injuring an elderly victim who tried intervening in a domestic dispute with another victim. Brandon L. Evans, 29, of Granite City, was charged on Aug. 20, 2025 with two felony counts of aggravated battery, one being a Class 2 felony and the other being a Class 3 felony. He was additionally charged with one count each of domestic battery and resisting a peace officer, both Class A misdemeanors. On Aug. 19, 2025, Evans allegedly struck a victim 60 years of age or older in the back, causing the victim to sustain multiple rib fractures. He is also accused of throwing a table at a different victim and resisting arrest. According to the state’s petition to deny Evans’s pretrial release from custody, Evans threw the table at the second victim during an altercation before the first victim attempted to intervene. “Victim tried to intervene and defendant pushed her, then threw an object at her

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EDWARDSVILLE - These are artists who will have work featured at the upcoming Edwardsville Arts Fair Sept. 26-28, 2025, at Edwardsville City Park. Today's featured artists are April Riley, Don Tran and Steven Martin. Artist #1: April Riley – RileyMade Medium: Textiles Artist Statement: "My handmade toys are designed to be remembered and loved, each one unique and full of personality. I carefully choose fabrics that are both beautiful and durable, ensuring years of comfort and play. Many of my designs come from my original illustrations, and I love adding touches of humor and sweetness." Instagram Artist #2: Don Tran – Hand-Sewn Silk Embroidery Medium: Textiles Artist Statement: "I hand-stitch colorful silk threads onto black cotton, creating vibrant images from my imagination. I begin with a simple outline, then build depth through shading and color blending. Each piece is unique, made entirely freehand as I embroider." Website

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DECATUR – Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced a $2 billion investment from Cronus Chemicals LLC (Cronus) to construct a new fertilizer production facility in Tuscola, Illinois. Supported by DCEO with an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement, the new investment will create 130 new jobs in Central Illinois, bolster the state’s manufacturing and agricultural industries, and reduce the state’s reliance on imported nitrogen products. “Illinois is building the infrastructure to power an entirely new bioeconomy by attracting major industry players to innovate right here in our state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Cronus Chemicals is a shining example of that vision. Their new $2 billion, state-of-the-art facility in Tuscola will create more than 130 full-time jobs, serve as an anchor for the agricultural industry of tomorrow, and spur investment that will

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SHAWNEETOWN, Ill. - Illinois State Fire Marshal Michele Pankow visited the Shawneetown Fire Department on Friday, August 22, to present checks totaling $350,000 each to Shawneetown and Carrier Mills Fire Departments and $300,000 to the Equality Fire Department through OSFM’s Fire Station Construction and Rehabilitation Grant Program. Shawneetown Fire Chief Terry Golden Video: https://youtu.be/OkgN4MlvKcg Carrier Mills Mayor Tracy Felty Video: https://youtu.be/u1qxKSyRHb I Equality Fire Chief Cole Baker Video: https://youtu.be/NXTshFnZLzw The OSFM awarded $5 million dollars to 17 grantees across the state. This funding will allow fire departments or fire protection districts to repair, upgrade, or construct new fire houses. A full list of recipients and be viewed here: https://sfm.illinois.gov/currentfocus/2025-fire-station-construction-and-rehabilitation-grant-award-an.html The Village of Carrier Mills showcased its new fire engine, purchased with funding from

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PONTOON BEACH – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that in addition to the ongoing closure of Illinois 111 at Interstate 270 in Madison County, a full closure of the ramp from westbound I-270 to northbound Illinois 111 will begin, weather permitting, Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025. This closure is expected to last approximately 14 days as part of the I-270/Illinois 111 interchange reconstruction project. The posted detour for the ramp closure is as follows: Eastbound I-270 to southbound I-255, then westbound Illinois 162 to Illinois 111. Westbound I-270: Take northbound Illinois 157 to westbound Chain of Rocks Road to northbound Illinois 111 Northbound I-255: Take eastbound I-270 to northbound Illinois 157 to westbound Chain of Rocks Road to northbound Illinois 111 In addition, one other outer ramp will be closed for 14 days at a different time. The specific closure date for this ramp will be announced as the work progresses. Work on the entire interchange

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WOOD RIVER — Wood River Fire Department, Wood River Police Department and Alton Memorial Ambulance responded to a bicyclist being struck. A 68-year-old bicyclist was struck Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 26, 2025, on Wesley Drive in front of the Wood River Walmart when a motorist turning left into the store’s entrance collided with the rider, Wood River Police Chief Brad Wells said. The incident occurred as the bicyclist was traveling downhill on Wesley Drive. Emergency responders called Air Evac, which landed its medical helicopter in the grassy area in front of the Walmart to transport the victim to a hospital in St. Louis. The victim had a head injury but was alert and conscious according to Chief Wells. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

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ST. LOUIS - The American Red Cross transitioned the location of its shelter for those impacted by the explosion Monday in North St. Louis County to: Faith Church, 5320 N. Highway 67, Florissant, MO 63034 A water main break affected the original shelter that Red Cross opened Monday afternoon at Saint Angela Merici, 3860 N. Highway 67, Florissant, MO 63034. Approximately 20 people came to the shelter for dinner, but no one stayed overnight. This location is now closed. Individuals affected by the explosion are encouraged to come to the new shelter location for water, meals, snacks, resources and a safe place to stay overnight. Individuals do not have to stay overnight at shelters. Individuals affected can also call 1-800-RED-CROSS for assistance or download the Red Cross Emergency app for shelter updates and resources. Identification and/or proof of residency is NOT required to be admitted to a Red Cross shelter. American Red Cross services are free and available to all regardles

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EAST ALTON - Rosewood Café is celebrating its first anniversary, and owner Tija Hunter is excited to share their homemade menu, new fall lattes, soup flights and more fun with the community. Located at 961 East Airline Drive in East Alton, the café is “doing fabulous.” Hunter loves the “charm” of the place, and she works hard to serve up that welcoming atmosphere and delicious food. “Sometimes I think I’m Italian because I feel like I have to feed everybody,” Hunter joked. “I’m very happy. Every small business owner could be busier. No two ways about that. But we’re really excited. People come in every day that have never been there, and they’re excited. It’s fun to see them, to watch them experience it.” The café’s menu includes coffee, soups, sandwiches, toast and similar items from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays, and 8 a.m.

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COLLINSVILLE — The Collinsville Police Department has named Officer Remington Paris as its Officer of the Month for July 2025. Since joining the department in April 2024, Officer Paris has made a notable impact on community safety. During July, Officer Paris was responsible for multiple arrests that led to the removal of cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and a stolen firearm from local streets. The Collinsville Police Department expressed gratitude for his efforts in pursuing criminals to protect residents. “Officer Paris has only been with CPD since April of 2024 but has made a significant impact in his short time,” the department said. “We are truly thankful for his pursuit of criminals in an effort to ensure the safety of our citizens.”

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EDWARDSVILLE - The best way to imagine your future as a Cougar at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is to see it for yourself. SIUE invites prospective students, their families, and guests to discover what the University has to offer by scheduling a campus visit this fall. “Finding the right university starts with a campus visit,” said Alicia Taylor, associate director of admissions in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. “SIUE has wonderful academic programs and resources to support student success, but visiting campus is the best way to see its heart and experience the community that makes our university home to so many.” Daily visits are offered Monday-Friday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and select Saturdays at 9 :30 a.m. Each daily visit includes a 30-minute presentation and a campus and housing tour led by a current SIUE student. From walking through the Stratton Quad, connecting with current students, and seeing what living on campus may be like,

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EDWARDSVILLE - During the regular meeting of the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education, members of the Woodland School Improvement Team presented the Board with plans to further improve Woodland Elementary School. Woodland Principal Andy Williams and his team explained that Woodland Elementary School was named a “targeted” school in 2023, earning a 59.15 score on the Illinois School Report Card. By 2024, the school had launched a School Improvement Plan and increased their score to 76.55, making it a “commendable” school. “It’s a challenging job, and it’s one that the staff puts in every single day,” Williams said. “Really, this is a staff thing. This is not an administrative thing. It’s them coming together and doing the work and putting the love of what we’re doing into it.” Assistant Principal Alicia Hillier explained that Woodland made “intentional shifts” to

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ST. LOUIS – The American Red Cross has opened a shelter located at Saint Angela Merici, 3860 N. Highway 67, Florissant, MO 63034 following the explosion yesterday morning in North St. Louis County. Individuals affected by the explosion are encouraged to come to the shelter for water, meals, snacks, resources and a safe place to stay overnight. Individuals do not have to stay overnight at shelters. Individuals affected can also call 1-800-RED-CROSS for assistance or download the Red Cross Emergency app for shelter updates and resources. Identification and/or proof of residency is NOT required to be admitted to a Red Cross shelter. American Red Cross services are free and available to all regardless of race, religious beliefs, nationality, or citizenship status. The role of the Red Cross in any disaster is to focus on addressing the immediate needs of those affected. The Red Cross is coordinating with the community, government, and emergency management officials to determine

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Let’s face it. Back pain is no fun. Millions of people suffer from some type of back discomfort and will try anything to find relief. But one the best paths to getting some relief may be an old standby – walking. Walking might strengthen your muscles, improve your posture and stabilize your back – all of which can help lessen pain, reduce flare-ups and prevent future problems. Back pain is very common, says Brittni Zick, a physical therapist for OSF HealthCare. It can impact anyone of any age for a variety of reasons. “Maybe there was an injury in the past, or poor posture is usually a big reason for it,” she says. “Or it’s the type of work that people do if they're bending and lifting a lot. It's one of the most common things I see as a physical therapist.” Zick adds that walking increases blood flow, which is important because tissue in your back can get irritated. By walking, blood circulates to those areas, helping heal

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CHICAGO — Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined elected officials, business, faith, and education leaders, community advocates, and law enforcement leaders to condemn the Trump administration’s plan to deploy the National Guard or active duty military in Chicago despite objections from state and local leadership. After witnessing weeks of federal overreach from Washington, a broad coalition of leaders from across the city gathered to present a united front and denounce Trump’s abuse of power "There is no emergency in Chicago that calls for armed military intervention that will disrupt the daily lives of our people. What President Trump is doing is unprecedented and unwarranted. It is illegal. It is unconstitutional. And it is un-American,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Our civilian police force and elected leaders work every day to promote public safety – efforts that have successfully brought down crime. The State of Illinois is ready to stand

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced a Tilden, Illinois man was sentenced to 180 years in prison for predatory criminal sexual assault of a minor under the age of 13. 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. Clyde Thibodeaux, 68, was sentenced today by Randolph County Circuit Court Judge Jeremy R. Walker after pleading guilty to three counts of predatory criminal sexual assault, Class X felonies. During the investigation Thibodeaux admitted to committing acts of sexual abuse against 11 different children over the course of 50 years. “Those who prey on and victimize innocent children must be held accountable. This sentence ensures this predator who admitted to these heinous crimes will not harm these children again,” Raoul said. “My heart goes out to

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CHICAGO – While the Trump Administration plans to deploy the National Guard, active-duty military, or federal agents into Democratic-led states, Illinois is showing that smart, data-driven policies, investment in strong law enforcement, and community engagement produce real results. In contrast to the declines in violent crime in Illinois and Chicago, a number of Republican-led states continue to see a high level of violent crime. Yet, the Trump Administration ignores these crime levels, undermining their public safety claims. Deploying military officers only seeks to undermine the hard work both state and local police departments and community members have built on to regain trust, including the ways that state and local law enforcement already coordinate with federal law enforcement to tackle crime. Instead, the Trump Administration should focus on releasing critical crime prevention and law enforcement funding back to local communities and states, rather than undermining

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