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BELLEVILLE - The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) issued an order Thursday approving new water and wastewater base rates for Illinois American Water, driven primarily by $557 million in capital investments in 2024 and 2025. The rate change request was filed on January 25, 2024. “By making prudent, ongoing necessary investments to maintain and upgrade our water and wastewater systems, Illinois American Water is committed to the safety and reliability of our water and wastewater systems in the communities we serve,” said Rebecca Losli, Illinois American Water president. The new rates will be effective January 1, 2025. The approved increase will result in a total annualized revenue increase of approximately $110.6 million and will support continued investment in critical water and wastewater infrastructure throughout the state, including the replacement, lining and installation of approximately 44 miles of aging water and wastewater pipelines. Investments also include

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GODFREY – The annual Freer Auto Body Cookies and Cocoa event, a cherished local tradition, took on added significance this year as area students contributed their efforts to support the Community Christmas campaign. The Cookies and Coca event took place this past Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024, and aims to ensure that every child in the region experiences the joy of the holiday season. Kamryn and Vincent Hollinger, children of Bret and Jamie Hollinger, along with Nora, Abigail, and Charlie Murray, children of Tim and Marisa Murray, sold homemade bracelets and raised additional funds through a yard sale to benefit the Cookies and Cocoa initiative. The children came with an abundance of toys to the Cookies and Cocoa event for Community Christmas. Their contributions align with the broader goals of Community Christmas, which supports various agencies during the holiday season. Margaret Freer of Freer Auto Body expressed her admiration for the children’s initiative, stating, “They

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SPRINGFIELD - The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is announcing the opening of the application period for our new Fire Station Construction and Rehabilitation Grant Program. The Fire Station Construction and Rehabilitation Grant program provides grants up to $350,000 for the construction or rehabilitation of fire stations with a total of 5 million dollars available to departments across the state. Applications must be electronically submitted or postmarked no later than February 28, 2025. “We continue to see and hear the need of fire departments across Illinois. As the cost of equipment and fire apparatus increase, the need to store these assets in an adequate station that doesn’t leak and is free of any hazards will help to keep the Illinois firefighters safer and help equipment last longer,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera. “I hope this grant shows that our commitment to helping provide funding to departments across

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SAINT LOUIS - “Christmas Carol: The Remix” tells the classic Charles Dickens story with a hip-hop twist. The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival will be sponsoring the show until Dec. 22, 2024, at the .ZACK Theater in St. Louis. Tom Ridgley with the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival explained that this show is a contemporary retelling of “A Christmas Carol,” refreshed so that the setting and characters have a more modern feel. “It feels like St. Louis in 2024,” Ridgley said. “It’s just brilliant because it’s so fresh and funny but it also is the story of ‘A Christmas Carol,’ which is just so moving and uplifting and never gets old because we’re always hoping that there’s a chance we can start again and do things over.” “Christmas Carol: The Remix” tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and the three ghosts of Hip-Hop Past, Present and Future. Ridgley said it’s “identical”

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EDWARDSVILLE - With a cast of voices, an assortment of sounds and a body in motion, the award-winning, international storyteller and author Bobby Norfolk masterfully weaved a web of tales, folklore and history around his audience on Tuesday, Dec. 3 at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Lovejoy Library. Norfolk’s performance kicked off the library’s celebration of holiday traditions from around the world during the month of December, according to Simone Williams, Diversity and Engagement librarian and assistant professor. Norfolk started his presentation with his rap rendition of “Three Billy Goats Gruff.” “… He should have learned not to be so greedy,” sang Norfolk, as he snapped and swayed. “He should have learned to help the needy. So, the goats ate grass, and they got fat. Trip trap. Trip trap. That’s that.” “We took a 400-year-old Norwegian folktale and put it into the African American tradition

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today issued the following statement after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit stayed an injunction a district court entered regarding the Protect Illinois Communities Act. The stay will remain in place while the appeal is pending. “I am pleased the 7th Circuit has stayed the district court’s injunction. My office will continue to prosecute the appeal, and the Protect Illinois Communities Act remains the law of the land as the litigation is pending in the lower courts. The Protect Illinois Communities Act is an important tool to prevent weapons of war from being used in our schools and on our streets, and I am committed to defending its constitutionality.”

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BELLEVILLE — The Belleville Police Department welcomed two new officers to its ranks on Thursday following graduation from the Southwestern Illinois College Police Academy Session 154. Officer Ortiz-Medina and Officer Headen are now poised to begin a comprehensive four-phase Field Training program designed to further develop their skills under the guidance of the department’s Field Training Officers (FTOs). The graduation marks a significant milestone for the officers, who will continue their training in a structured environment to prepare for the challenges of law enforcement. The Belleville Police Department emphasized that while the officers have completed their initial training, their education and development will continue through this rigorous program. The department encourages the community to join in congratulating Officer Ortiz-Medina and Officer Headen as they embark on their careers in public service.

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SPRINGFIELD - The OSFM is providing the secret recipe for a fun and safe holiday season; fire safety. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) more than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles. More than two of every five home decoration fires occur due to decorations being placed too close to a heat source. The NFPA also reports U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 853 home structure fires per year that began with decorations, excluding Christmas trees. Between 2018-2022, US fire departments responded to an average of 155 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in more than two in five homes. As Christmas trees dry out, they become more and more flammable. Thirty-six percent of Christmas tree fires were in January. Although Christmas tree fires are not common, they can grow very fast. Candle fires peak in December followed closely by January. More

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EAST ALTON - Two girls reported missing in East Alton have been located safe, according to Police Chief Scott Gollicke. The announcement was made on Monday morning, December 9, 2024. Chief Gollicke stated that the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the girls' disappearance is ongoing. He emphasized that the police are collaborating with the parents but could not provide further details at this time. The East Alton Police Department is committed to ensuring the well-being of the children involved and is focused on gathering more information as the investigation progresses.

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GODFREY - Fifteen members of the Godfrey Women’s Club dedicated their Friday to ringing bells for the Salvation Army kettles outside Schnucks in Godfrey. The event is part of the club’s ongoing commitment to community service. The Godfrey Women’s Club, known for its various service projects, aims to support local initiatives and charitable organizations. Among the volunteers were Eileen Aimone, Becky Areford, Sharon Wild, and Tanya Sisk, who contributed their time to raise funds for the Salvation Army. This annual tradition not only helps gather donations for those in need but also fosters a spirit of community involvement among the club's members. The efforts of the Godfrey Women’s Club exemplify the organization’s dedication to making a positive impact in the area.

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EAST ST. LOUIS – Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 6 arrested 37-year-old John Mosley of Belleville for First Degree Murder (Class M Felony), Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm (Class 1 Felony), and Felon in Possession of a Firearm (Class 3 Felony) stemming from a deadly shooting this past October. On October 30, 2024, Zone 6 agents were requested by the East St. Louis Police Department to investigate a homicide that occurred in 3000 block of Converse Avenue in East St. Louis. Upon arrival officers located a 16-year-old victim that had been struck by gunfire. The victim was transported to an area hospital and was later declared deceased. After a thorough investigation, ISP agents identified Mosley as a suspect. On December 3, 2024, Mosley was taken into custody by the United States Marshal’s Service. On December 6, 2024, the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office filed the above-mentioned charges against Mosley. Mosley is

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As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better way to celebrate than by gathering friends and family for a cozy movie marathon. Whether you’re a fan of classic films, heartwarming comedies, or festive animations, hosting a holiday movie marathon can create lasting memories, spark joy, and provide a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the season. In this guide, we’ll explore how to organize the perfect holiday movie marathon, from selecting films to creating the ideal viewing environment. Choosing the Right Movies The first step in hosting a successful holiday movie marathon is selecting the films. With a plethora of options available, it’s essential to curate a list that caters to the tastes of your guests while still embracing the holiday spirit. Here are a few ideas to consider: Classic Holiday Films Timeless classics such as It's a Wonderful Life , A Christmas Carol , and White Christmas are must-haves for any holiday movie marathon.

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As the chill of winter sets in, many people find it challenging to maintain their fitness routines. With shorter days and colder temperatures, outdoor activities may become less appealing, leading to a sedentary lifestyle that can affect both physical and mental well-being. However, staying active indoors is not only feasible but can also be enjoyable. This article offers practical tips and strategies to help you remain fit and energized throughout the winter months. Embrace Home Workouts One of the most convenient ways to stay active indoors is to incorporate home workouts into your routine. You don’t need a gym membership or expensive equipment to get started. Here are some effective methods to make the most of your indoor workout sessions: Bodyweight Exercises : Utilize your own body weight for resistance training. Exercises like push-ups, squats, lunges, and planks can effectively build strength without any equipment. You can create a circuit by combining various bodyweight

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The holiday season is often characterized by joy, celebration, and the spirit of giving. While many individuals focus on gift exchanges and festive gatherings, the true essence of the holidays extends beyond personal enjoyment. Giving back during this time not only strengthens community bonds but also fosters a sense of gratitude and fulfillment. This article explores the importance of giving back during the holidays, highlighting its benefits, practical ways to contribute, and the profound impact it can have on both individuals and communities. The Spirit of the Season Holidays are traditionally viewed as a time for family, friends, and festivities. However, they can also serve as a poignant reminder of the needs of others, particularly those who are less fortunate. The spirit of the season encourages generosity, compassion, and selflessness. When we prioritize giving back, we not only uplift others but also enhance our own holiday experience. Engaging in acts of kindness can transform

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December 9th has witnessed a myriad of significant events over the years, each contributing to the tapestry of history in diverse ways. In 1990, a momentous event took place that would change the course of history: the United Nations General Assembly ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child. This landmark treaty aimed to protect the rights of children globally, setting a standard that recognized them as individuals with their own rights and dignity. With over 190 countries ratifying the convention, it remains one of the most widely accepted human rights instruments in the world, emphasizing the importance of education, health, and protection against violence and exploitation. The convention continues to influence policies and practices aimed at safeguarding children's rights today. On this day in 1965, the United States launched its first space probe to Mars, named Mariner 4. This historic mission marked a significant milestone in space exploration, as it was the first

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December 7th and 8th have witnessed several pivotal moments throughout history, each leaving an indelible mark on the world. One of the most consequential events in modern history took place on December 7, 1941, when Japan launched a surprise military strike against the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. The attack, which resulted in the sinking of multiple battleships and the loss of over 2,400 American lives, marked a turning point in World War II. The day after the attack, President Franklin D. Roosevelt famously declared it “a date which will live in infamy,” prompting the United States to officially enter the war. This event not only changed the course of the war but also significantly impacted international relations and military strategy for decades to come. Fast forward to December 7, 1988, when a catastrophic earthquake struck the Armenian city of Spitak, resulting in a devastating loss of life and widespread destruction. The magnitude 6.8

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)—both members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST)—applauded the Senate una nimously passing their bipartisan legislation that would help break down unnecessary barriers Americans with disabilities continue to face at Amtrak stations across the country. Building on Duckworth’s All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) Act , which became law as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is already helping improve transportation accessibility nationwide, the bipartisan Think DIFFERENTLY Transportation Act would help bring Amtrak stations up to standards enshrined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by requiring the rail agency to submit annual reports to Congress on the status of its compliance with accessibility standards set by the ADA. “When the ADA was signed into law, it promised that intercity passenger

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Letter To Editor: “While we are relieved Illinois American Water did not get the rate hike it wanted, we are disappointed that the company still received a significant increase: $110 million. The ICC’s ruling today gives new urgency to CUB’s push to reform a water privatization law that Illinois American Water successfully lobbied for, and now uses to plunder its customers. Illinois American Water has now received $195 million in rate hikes in just two years, and they’ve indicated on earnings calls that they expect the rate hikes to continue. CUB thanks all the Illinois American customers who have spoken out against escalating water bills, and we join them and all private water customers across the state in urging the General Assembly to take action. It’s time for legislators to listen to their pleas.” – said Sarah Moskowitz, Citizens Utility Board (CUB) Executive Director “The ICC’s decision to cut Illinois American Water’s

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ST. LOUIS – Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri (GSEM) is pleased to announce a new memorandum of understanding agreement with Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), providing educational opportunities and holistic support for GSEM active girl members. This memorandum of understanding marks the fourth agreement in the past eight months to be included as part of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri ADVANCE HER Leadership Movement. The SIUE Girl Scouts Impact Scholarship will provide $2,500 for GSEM members who enroll at SIUE. This scholarship is stackable and renewable per year with a 2.5 GPA or higher. To qualify for the scholarship, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri members must meet SIUE’s admission requirements. “This academic collaboration with Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is another great addition to our Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri ADVANCE HER Leadership Movement, providing educational and empowerment opportunities for our Girl Scouts”,

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ST. LOUIS - Ameren Illinois, in partnership with the Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Intersect Illinois, Greater St. Louis, Inc., and the St. Louis Regional Freightway, recently held the inaugural Southwest Illinois Economic Development Leadership Summit, bringing together bi-state economic development leaders, the CEOs of major local companies, and other key stakeholders with a shared interest in making the region more competitive on a local, regional, national and global scale. The event highlighted the vital role of the Metro East as a key economic driver for the bi-state region, while also showcasing the regional freight assets and available workforce that support continued growth on both sides of the Mississippi River. The summit kicked off with a networking dinner on Oct. 29, where some of the region’s top employers discussed the trajectory of the region, growth, and collaboration. Attendees

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