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BETHALTO - Amanda Winn wants to bring a new voice to the Bethalto school district. Winn, one of nine candidates running for a seat on the Bethalto Community Unit School District #8 Board of Education, shared more about who she is and what she stands for. She believes there needs to be more transparency and structure to the school board, and she hopes to provide a fresh perspective while advocating for the students. “I’m passionate about this district,” she said. “I love the kids in our community, talking to them and interacting with them. I’ve got four kids of my own that went into this district. It’s a wonderful district. I think I can bring some new ideas and perspectives to the board and get us out of the ‘this is how we’ve always done it.’” Winn graduated from Civic Memorial High School in 1999. Two of her children are currently enrolled at CM. She shared that she volunteers throughout Bethalto “as much as

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BETHALTO - Dana Aronin is new to the school board, but she has a lot of experience with kids. Aronin, one of nine candidates running for a seat on the Bethalto Community Unit School District #8 Board of Education, shared more about who she is and what she stands for. She joined the board last summer when two vacancies opened up, and she balances her school board position with her work as a pediatric nurse practitioner. “As someone who really wants to achieve good things, I feel like I’m just getting my feet wet in this process and I’m just starting to get a good understanding about how everything works,” she said. “I just don’t feel like I’m done. I would love to continue to be on the board so I can make more positive changes in the community.” Aronin has worked as a leader in the pediatric ICU and the cardiac ICU in hospitals across the Greater St. Louis region. She currently works with Cardinal Glennon as a pediatrics primary

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EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced Thursday, March 20, 2025, that his office has filed felony charges against a Missouri man accused of causing serious injuries to a police officer who was struck by the man’s vehicle during a pursuit. The Brooklyn Police Department officer was attempting to deploy spike strips to stop the vehicle when he was struck early Sunday, March 16, 2025. Haine said he expects evidence to show that the officer suffered a serious injury that nearly severed the officer’s thumb. The defendant, Kendall Brown, 27, of Florissant, Mo., is charged with aggravated battery (Class 1 felony), aggravated battery (Class 3 felony), and two counts of aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer (Class 4 felony). The charges allege that, while attempting to flee from police, his vehicle struck Brooklyn Officer Josh Dallas, causing great bodily harm to the officer. The most serious of the charges, the Class

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MASCOUTAH - Lukas Fournie, a farmer from Mascoutah, is spearheading a fundraising campaign to recover from significant damage caused by a recent tornado last weekend. The storm destroyed his shed and severely damaged much of his farming equipment, prompting Fournie to seek financial assistance to rebuild and repair his family farm. The tornado struck late Friday night, March 14, 2025, leaving Fournie and his family in urgent need of support to restore their livelihood. "The shed is gone and most of the equipment has major damage," Fournie said regarding the fundraiser. He emphasized the importance of the family farm, saying, "We love our family farm; it's our way of life, and we need to get it back up and running." He said the funds raised would be used to rebuild the shed, repair grain bins, and address damages to the house, farm vehicles, and personal vehicles. Fournie expressed gratitude for any donations, and said, "We would appreciate any donations to help build our farm and

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ALTON - Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski and community members came together to discuss proposed cuts to Medicaid and how the impact this would have on the disability community. On March 20, 2025, IMPACT Center for Independent Living (CIL) in Alton hosted a roundtable discussion with Budzinski and Medicaid recipients and providers, as well as representatives from Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Illinois DHS Rehabilitation Services, IMPACT CIL and the Illinois Council of Developmental Disabilities (ICDD). People shared their personal experiences with Medicaid, and Budzinski said she would take these conversations back to Washington. “I’ve talked about the numbers, but this isn’t just about the numbers. This is about people’s lives,” Budzinski said. “This is about their livelihoods. This is about making sure that we have healthy communities. So I’m going to be fighting like hell in Washington, D.C., to make sure that these cuts

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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt advanced a measure to expand career and technical education programs to support regional manufacturing. “A lot of kids grow up thinking that college is the only option to be successful, and while a four-year degree is great, there are plenty of high-paying jobs in the manufacturing industry that young people may not know about,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “For many jobs, kids might become interested because of a parent or family member, and we want to open the door for other youth without similar experiences. Further, for kids who may already be interested in technical education, this bill would give them the experience they need to get a job right away.” Senate Bill 58 would expand a current program that is successful in other parts of the state to the Metro East. The program allows manufacturing companies to partner with local community colleges and high schools to set up technical training programs that woul

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GRAFTON - Raging Rivers WaterPark is thrilled to kick off its 36th season with an exciting Spring Sale on admission tickets! From March 21st to March 28th, you can purchase Any Day Admission tickets for just $24.99 online at bit.ly/RiversSpecialEvents . This special offer provides up to $15 off gate admission prices for ages 3 years old and up - making it the perfect opportunity to plan your summer fun. After the Spring Sale ends, one day admission tickets will only be available to purchase starting on May 1st. The park will officially open its gates on May 17th and operate through September 7th, with months of thrilling water attractions and fun events. Highlights of the season include: Big Red Day Firetrucks & More World Wide Technology Raceway Days Magical Mermaid Mondays Family Fun Nights Fireworks Nights New this year, Raging Rivers is enhancing the guest experience with FREE fountain drinks included with admission and season passes, ensuring visitors stay refreshed

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Letter To The Editor: Dear Voting Citizens of Alton, I am writing this letter to joyfully endorse Mayor David Goins for re-election to a second term as Mayor of Alton. I have had the pleasure of knowing Mayor Goins for many years, dating back to his time as a dedicated police officer in our community. His commitment to public service has always been evident, and it has been a privilege to serve alongside him on the Alton School District Board of Education. During his first term as mayor, David has demonstrated exemplary leadership, addressing the needs and concerns of our community with professionalism and integrity. David came into office facing a financial deficit, bank reconciliations not up to date and the challenge of whether or not payroll could be made. He was able to turn the financial deficit into a surplus, bring the bank reconciliations up to date and reverse the worry of making payroll. David had to come in and stabilize the city’s finances

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WOOD RIVER - Wood River’s Tropical Sno location is once again open for the season. Located at 1368 Vaughn Road in Wood River, Tropical Sno will serve the community’s favorite sno cones and, new this year, Dippin’ Dots. Owner David Zimmer is excited to engage with the community once again. “Summer is always awesome when it comes around,” he said. “Everybody is about done with winter by the time we open up. Everybody likes to sit out on the patio and enjoy some Tropical Sno.” Zimmer also owns Tropical Sno, Dippin’ Dots and Lotus Energy in Edwardsville, which is open year-round. He is excited to expand to the Wood River location for the third year in a row. Zimmer predicts the introduction of Dippin’ Dots will be popular in Wood River. The Wood River Tropical Sno also has a drive-thru, which many community members take advantage of in the hot summer months. While school is in session, the Tropical Sno stand’s

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RALEIGH, N.C. — Nancy Ferb, a Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator with 28 years of experience, was recognized for her outstanding sales and team leadership at the company’s annual “OnStage” convention held recently in Raleigh, North Carolina. Ferb is a Godfrey resident in the Lakeview Terrace area. Stampin’ Up!, a craft company based in Utah, specializes in products for creating handmade greeting cards and scrapbooking. Established in 1988, the company has expanded its reach to 11 countries worldwide, with its creative stamps manufactured in Kanah, Utah. In addition to her recognition at the convention, Ferb offers creative classes in the Godfrey area, contributing to the local crafting community. Her participation in the convention highlights the company's commitment to celebrating the achievements of its demonstrators and fostering a supportive network among its members.

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BRASELTON, GA. – The American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) is proud to announce a new sponsorship with the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau, which will serve as the Title Sponsor of the Alton Illinois Junior Championship through 2027. This partnership underscores the Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau’s commitment to supporting junior golf while promoting the Alton, Illinois region as a premier destination for competitive youth sports. The tournament will continue to attract top junior golfers from across the world to Spencer T. Olin Golf Course, providing a high-caliber competitive experience while showcasing the area’s exceptional golf facilities and hospitality. The 2025 Alton Illinois Junior Championship by UHY will be hosted at Spencer T. Olin Golf Course in Alton, Illinois, from June 2-5, 2025. The tournament will return in 2026 and 2027, with dates to be announced at a later date. “I would like to thank the AJGA organization for having th

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PONTOON BEACH – A Granite City man facing his second domestic battery charge been released from custody following a violent altercation. Robert L. Coakley, 41, of Granite City, was charged on March 14, 2025 with aggravated battery (a Class 2 felony) and his second offense of domestic battery (the Class 4 felony). On Dec. 21, 2024, Coakley allegedly strangled a household or family member by “pulling her hoodie against her neck, thereby impending her ability to breathe,” according to court documents. He also reportedly “grabbed her by the hair and ripped a chunk of hair out of her head.” Coakley had previously been convicted of domestic battery in a case from 2008, which was also filed in Madison County. The Pontoon Beach Police Department presented the latest domestic battery case against Coakley, who was granted pretrial release from custody. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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MADISON COUNTY – Two people from California face the same felony charges after authorities caught them transporting large quantities of drugs across state lines. Jeffrey B. Ringer, 60, and Rebecca Smith, 59, both of the same Studio City, Calif. address, were each charged with cannabis trafficking, unlawful possession with intent to deliver cannabis, and unlawful possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, all Class X felonies. On March 11, 2025, the two allegedly brought over 5,000 grams of cannabis and more than 200 grams of psilocybin from California into the state of Illinois. Both cases were presented by the Metropolitan Enforcement Group of Southwestern Illinois (MEGSI). Ringer and Smith were both granted pretrial release from custody. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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CASEYVILLE — A swift response from local fire departments helped contain a brush fire that broke out in a field near Brook Haven Drive in Caseyville. Hollywood Heights Fire Chief Shawn Keilbach said the fire was reported to their jurisdiction after the Collinsville Fire Department received the initial call. "The fire was not very big when we pulled up, but the wind caused it to spread quickly through the field," Keilbach said. The blaze, located on a dirt hill where dirt is sold and away from residential areas, was brought under control within approximately 30 minutes, he added. The Hollywood Heights Fire Department and Collinsville Fire Department were supported by a brush truck from the State Park, enhancing the firefighting efforts. Keilbach emphasized the importance of caution about burning at this time, noting that "even in a pit, embers can get away with the wind." The collaboration between the Hollywood Heights Fire Department and local agencies has been a point of prid

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COLLINSVILLE — A Collinsville man faces serious allegations following a child pornography investigation conducted by local authorities. Layne A. Willhite, 25, was charged with six Class X felony counts of child pornography after detectives presented their findings to the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. The charges stem from incidents alleged to have occurred between July 1 and August 31, 2024. According to the charges, Willhite solicited visual reproductions or depictions of child pornography through social media platforms. The investigation was spearheaded by the Collinsville Police Department, with assistance from the Madison County Sheriff’s Department. The inquiry was prompted by a tip received through the Internet Crimes Against Children data system. Willhite is currently in custody, awaiting a detention hearing and further court proceedings. As the case unfolds, it is important to note that the charges are based

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WOOD RIVER - Hope Animal Rescues will host a “Barkade” Party — a fundraiser complete with unlimited arcade games. From 12–3 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, 2025, community members are invited to Atomic Pinball Arcade in Wood River for games, pizza, a 50/50 raffle and more. Tickets cost $25 and all proceeds go back to Hope Animal Rescues. Jackie Spiker, who oversees the rescue, explained that the goal is to raise money for the 109 dogs in their care. “It should be a whole lot of fun,” Spiker said. “These fundraisers are very important in helping us maintain our budget.” Kids and families are welcome to come out and enjoy the day. Adults can bring alcoholic beverages if they’d like, or there will be soft drinks available. Hope Rescues asks people to register by visiting their official website or calling 618-219-0171. Spiker stressed that these fundraisers help Hope continue its mission. Located in Godfrey, Hope rescues dogs

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ALTON - The Mississippi River Festival will return to Alton this summer. After a successful revival in 2024, the organizers of the MRF are gearing up for another festival on June 27 and 28, 2025, at the Alton Amphitheater. This year, they promise a longer lineup, more diversity in music, and a lot of fun that pays homage to the original MRF of the 1970s. “The intent of it is excellence, and not just for excellence’s sake, but excellence because that’s what this festival deserves and that’s what the people of Alton deserve,” explained Nick Bifano, one of the organizers. This year’s MRF will stretch over two days. The lineup ranges from “good Americana music” on Friday, June 27, to “Southern rock, country and rock and roll” on Saturday, June 28. On Friday, June 27, Ben Rector headlines, supported by Wilder Woods, Allen Stone, Brian Owens Soul, and Beth Bombara. On Saturday, June 28, attendees can enjoy Blackberry

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COLLINSVILLE — Uptown Scoops, an ice cream shop located at 403 West Main Street in Collinsville, announced on social media that it was the victim of vandalism over the weekend of March 15, 2025. The owner reported to the Collinsville Police that someone broke into the establishment and vandalized the bathrooms. The Collinsville Police Department has also posted the Uptown Scoops information on its Facebook page . Despite the incident, the shop is set to open as scheduled at 12 p.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2025. The Uptown Scoops owner expressed disappointment over the vandalism but reassured the community that it would not hinder their opening plans. In an effort to find the perpetrator, the owner urged anyone with information or knowledge of the person shown in these two photos to contact the Collinsville Police Department at 618-344-3122. The incident highlights concerns about safety and property damage in the area, as the community rallies to support local businesses.

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul joined three attorneys general on Wednesday in filing a lawsuit against the Trump administration to preserve federal grant dollars flowing into Illinois for clean-energy projects. Raoul and the coalition filed the lawsuit on behalf of the Illinois Climate Bank, a state-created public bank whose purpose is to stimulate the development of clean energy and greenhouse gas emissions-reducing projects, and to help overcome existing market barriers to these projects. The lawsuit also names Citibank, which holds the funds for the federal government, to ensure those funds are released as required by law. “Congress appropriated billions to assist in transitioning to a clean-energy future, protecting our environment from carbon emissions and putting people to work in the process,” Raoul said. “The Trump administration’s decision to deny these critical funds will prevent the development of clean energy projects across Illinois,

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Did you know that nearly 90% of people feel a surge of energy and optimism as the first day of spring approaches? This remarkable statistic highlights a profound connection between this season and our emotional well-being. The first day of spring is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a moment that sparks joy, creativity, and a sense of renewal. So, what is it about this day that captivates hearts and minds across the globe? Let’s explore the rich tapestry of cultural significance, personal traditions, and the invigorating spirit that the first day of spring evokes. The Cultural Significance of the First Day of Spring Across various cultures, the arrival of spring has been embraced with celebrations and rituals that reflect humanity’s deep-rooted connection to nature. In many societies, the first day of spring symbolizes rebirth and renewal. For example, Nowruz, or Persian New Year, is celebrated on the vernal equinox and marks the start of spring in Iran

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