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ALTON - During a press conference at The Wedge Innovation Center , Governor J.B. Pritzker answered several questions about the State of Illinois and Madison County. On Nov. 14, 2024, Pritzker and AltonWorks CEO John Simmons fielded questions about The Wedge and its role in the City of Alton . Pritzker also took questions about healthcare, abortion access and President-elect Donald Trump. He addressed an advisory referendum on the Madison County ballot that asked voters about the possibility of separating from Cook County. In Madison County, 71,695 voters, or 56.54%, voted “yes” to beginning conversations about separating from Cook County. Meanwhile, 55,108 voters, or 43.46%, voted “no.” In a previous visit to Madison County, Pritzker spoke against this advisory referendum and encouraged voters to remember the benefits of living in the same state as Chicago. On Nov. 14, 2024, he said he was “not surprised” by the election results.

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ALTON – Today, Ray Strebel formally announced his campaign for Mayor of Alton in the 2025 Consolidated Elections. Ray Strebel is a third-generation Alton resident, Third Ward Alderman, and local small business owner who is running to end business as usual and return prosperity and opportunity to our residents. “Alton needs new leadership and fresh ideas because our community deserves so much better than business as usual,” said Ray Strebel. “We won’t transform our city overnight, but now is the time to unite behind a plan for growth that gets our community headed in the right direction by improving our residents’ quality of life, fixing our government problems that are holding us back, and returning Alton to the thriving town it once was.” Strebel said he is focused on investing in infrastructure that makes Alton safer, restoring fiscal responsibility to protect taxpayer costs, and growing our community by improving quality of life. “Under

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FIELDON - Fieldon United Church of Christ is hosting their third annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner, giving everyone in the community a seat at the Thanksgiving table - and a free, hot meal. “Last year, we served several family meals, delivered to over 30, and hosted 75 to 100 in-person diners,” Niki Egelhoff, one of the event organizers, said. “This year will be our third year and we hope to reach even more people. No one should feel alone during the holidays.” On Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 28, 2024), dinners will be served starting at 1 p.m. While the community is welcome to dine at the church at 205 1st St. in Fieldon, there will also be family-sized and individual meals available for carryout. Pre-orders can be placed by Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024 for pickup at 10:30 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day. To reserve your carryout order, or donate to the church, call Jen Fanning at 618-535-3220 or Tim Fanning at 618-535-3221. The event will also feature a cash prize

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COLLINSVILLE - Two people from Indiana face charges in Madison County after stealing several items from the Collinsville Walmart with multiple drugs in their possession. Katelyn R. Staab and Elijah D. Prater, both 28 and of Burket, Ind., were both charged with retail theft over $300 (both Class 4 felonies). They were also charged with separate drug possession offenses. The items stolen included “a crossbow, arrows, sinus kit, smart watch, flashlight and tools,” with a total combined value of more than $300, according to descriptions of the charges. Prater additionally faces a Class 3 felony charge for possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine, while Staab faces a Class 4 felony for possession of “a substance containing buprenorphine.” Staab and Prater’s cases were presented by the Collinsville Police Department. Both have since been granted pretrial release from custody. The issuance of charges is based solely upon probable cause

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Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, delicious meals, and expressing gratitude. As you prepare for this special occasion, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere is essential, and nothing sets the mood quite like a beautifully designed centerpiece. Instead of settling for store-bought options, why not tap into your creativity and craft a DIY centerpiece that reflects your style and the spirit of the season? This article will guide you through various DIY Thanksgiving centerpiece ideas, offering practical tips and inspiration to help you create a stunning focal point for your table. The Importance of a Centerpiece The centerpiece is often the centerpiece of attention—pun intended—during Thanksgiving dinners. It not only enhances the visual appeal of your dining table, but it also serves as a conversation starter, bringing people together. A well-thought-out centerpiece reflects the warmth of your home and the joy of the holiday season. It can be simple or elaborate,

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On November 15, 2024, we reflect on a series of significant events that have occurred throughout history on this day. One of the most notable events in history on November 15 occurred in 1986, when the world witnessed the signing of the agreement that established the World Trade Organization (WTO). This was a crucial development in international trade, as it aimed to enhance global trade relations and reduce barriers for countries engaging in commerce. The establishment of the WTO marked a significant step toward economic globalization, impacting countries and economies worldwide. It sought to create a fair and equitable trading system, which has been a topic of debate ever since. The WTO continues to play a central role in shaping trade policy and resolving trade disputes, making its founding on this day a landmark moment in global economic history. In the realm of culture, November 15, 1971, saw the release of the iconic rock album 'Led Zeppelin IV.' This album pushed the boundaries

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ALTON - The Wedge Innovation Center is a 55,000-square-foot social impact, research lab, think tank, and workspace serving as a hub for the digital economy in the Alton Metro Region. Following the investment of a $20 million 10G fiber network, made possible by funding from the State of Illinois, the Wedge is converging technologies and bridging opportunities across the bistate to drive sustainable growth, build a workforce of the future, and ignite business success in both Illinois and Missouri. Born out the community revitalization efforts of AltonWorks and leveraging the assets of SIUE, The Wedge is scheduled to open this winter. The Wedge will be the home of the Midwest AI Network (MAIN) Labs and research capabilities, technical expertise, and educational programming from SIUE including GeoMarc Office, Center for Predictive Analytics, Successful Communities Collaborative, and other excellent programs ready to provide community-engaged, timely problem-solving. Innovation: The Foundation

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ALTON - Sing We Now of Christmas Great Rivers Choral Society to Present Annual Christmas Concert Great Rivers Choral Society is hard at work practicing for their annual Christmas concert, this year appropriately entitled Sing We Now of Christmas. Great Rivers Choral Society, founded in the fall of 2001, is an adult chorus of mixed voices whose objective is to foster and encourage music education and appreciation in southwestern Illinois. The chorus comprises 20–30 volunteer artists from all age groups and walks of life who enjoy singing and are looking for a means of expressing their vocal talents collectively. “We perform three concerts each season. They’re all wonderful in their own right, but the Christmas concert is especially magical,” says Great Rivers Choral Society Board President and soprano Pat Stewart. “The music selections are eclectic— some sacred music to honor the religious holiday, some secular music which will bring a smile to everyone’s

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GRANITE CITY – Granite City Community Unit School District #9 had four students recognized as part of the 2024 America Recycles Day Poster Contest, hosted by Madison County Green Schools Program. Other area students were also recognized. The theme for this year’s ARD contest was, “I want to be recycled.” There were 352 entries from 17 schools. This year’s winners in the poster contest are as follows: Kindergarten – 2nd grades 1st- Giovanni Zendejas, Eunice Smith Elementary 2nd - Georgia Zobrist, Highland Primary 3rd - Quinn Siebert, Leclaire Elementary 3rd – 5th grades 1st- Arianna Spaulding, West Elementary 2nd - Julia Augustson, Meadowbrook Intermediate 3rd - Caroline Hall, Grigsby Intermediate 6th – 8th grades 1st - Lauren Wilson, Coolidge Junior High 2nd - Katherine Fitzgerald, St. Mary’s Middle School 3rd - Molly Basye, Highland Middle 9th – 12th grades 1st - Kseniya

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ALTON - Community leaders gathered at The Wedge Innovation Center to learn about the center’s progress and plans for the future. During a press conference at The Wedge on Nov. 14, 2024, Governor J.B. Pritzker fielded questions about the state of Illinois and the development of the center. He expressed his enthusiasm for the innovation space and his belief that it will benefit Alton. “Seeing the development of something like this in Alton, it does the heart good,” Pritzker said. “It also tells you that Illinois is on the rise everywhere. And when you’ve got really great people coming together, bringing their resources to make it possible for people to build great businesses here, that’s how economic growth is made.” A project by AltonWorks, The Wedge Innovation Center will host anchor tenants and co-working spaces. They plan to have several Midwest AI Network (MAIN) labs available for companies to utilize. The building will be home

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ALTON - Hayner Library will host a free Illinois Department of Human Services In-Person Recruitment Presentation at 1 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, at Hayner Library at Alton Square Mall. In the presentation learn how to obtain careers with the State of Illinois Hayner Library will host the Illinois Department of Human Services for a unique opportunity that allows individuals to explore career paths in the public sector. This event offers a platform for meaningful dialogue, fostering connections, and potential employment opportunities across diverse state government roles. The IDHS recruitment team will cover topics related to applying for state positions, state profile creation, and other best practices when applying for careers with the State of Illinois. A question-and-answer session will take place after the presentation. “We’re very happy to host events such as this at the library,” says Mary Cordes, Executive Director of Hayner Library. “Our patrons have

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GLEN CARBON - Glen Carbon residents will pay more for their water over the next two years after the Village Board this week unanimously approved a series of water rate increases starting Jan. 1, 2025. The rate change amounts to a 10% annual increase for both the service and usage charges for Village-supplied water. Another 10% increase will take effect starting on Jan. 1, 2026. Since Nov. 1, 2022, Glen Carbon residents have paid a monthly water service charge of $6.50. Under both rate increases, that service charge will rise to $7.15 in 2025 and $7.87 in 2026. The village’s water usage rates, last updated on May 1, 2024, are also increasing. Village residents, who currently pay a monthly $6.12 usage fee for the first 1,000 gallons of water used during each billing cycle, will see that same usage fee increase to $6.73 in 2025 and $7.41 in 2026. “As recently discussed in Finance Committee meetings … it was decided to recommend a 10% annual increase in

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ALTON/GODFREY - 15 local agencies came together on Nov. 12 and 13, 2024, to shop at Target in Alton using Community Christmas funds, a program designed to support families in need during the holiday season. The initiative, funded by community-raised contributions, highlights the impact of collective efforts to provide essential items to those less fortunate. Liz Campbell, chair of Community Christmas, expressed her gratitude for the community’s involvement. She said: “Watching local agencies shop for items their organization truly needs — whether it is toys, personal hygiene products, clothing, or everyday essentials — was incredibly heartwarming.” She emphasized the importance of the program, stating that it serves as a reminder of the good that can come from hard work and fundraising efforts earlier in the year. The shopping event was facilitated by the collaboration of Target staff, agency representatives, and community volunteers, including

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ALTON - On November 15, 1924, the MacDowell Club hosted Tony Sarg’s Marionettes at the Spalding Auditorium. There were two performances: “The Pied Piper of Hamelin” in the afternoon and Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island” in the evening. The house was packed for both shows. Several Altonians prominent in the art and music scene were quoted in the Alton Evening Telegraph on November 12, 1924, encouraging adults and children alike to attend the performances. Here is a sampling: Mrs. Alice Irving: (writing home from New York) – “I have been to see Tony Sarg’s Marionettes and they are wonderful. If they ever come within reach you must not lose an opportunity to see them.” Mrs. George Ryrie (Sophia Hopkins Ryrie): – “Several thousand people flocked to see Tony Sarg’s Marionettes at Chautauqua, N.Y. this summer and both grown-ups and children enjoyed them thoroughly." Miss (Katherine V.) Dickinson: –

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ALTON/GODFREY - Pride, Incorporated has added a festive touch to the Alton and Godfrey communities. The beautification organization decorated the “Welcome to Alton” sign, the “Welcome to Godfrey” sign and the Benjamin Godfrey Mansion with seasonal decor like wreaths, lights and more. They worked with several local businesses and organizations to make this possible. “It was just a collaboration,” said Pat Stewart, president of Pride, Inc. “This started as a twinkle in someone’s eye that quickly developed into a community project that should please all Alton and Godfrey residents.” On Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, John Meehan will dress as Benjamin Godfrey to flip the switch and turn on the lights at the Benjamin Godfrey Mansion and the two welcome signs. Stewart noted that a lot of people are struggling, and she hopes the decorations bring joy to community members. “The holiday season can be very difficult for people at

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BATAVIA – Today, Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton will join Illinois Main Street in historic downtown Batavia to welcome community leaders, entrepreneurs, and economic development advocates to the 2024 Illinois Main Street Conference. The three-day conference celebrates a 31-year legacy of revitalizing downtowns and strengthening local economies across Illinois. “Illinois’ Main Street communities are revitalizing historic districts while bolstering local economies,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton . "This conference not only celebrates the dedicated individuals who strengthen these communities, it brings them together to network, exchange ideas and ensure Illinois remains a place of inclusive economic opportunity.” The conference features over 25 interactive sessions, including discussions on: Building mental health support systems for small business owners Preserving historic buildings while embracing modern needs Creating inclusive

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GODFREY - Mayor Mike McCormick is pleased to announce that Godfrey has successfully completed the NWS vetting for recertification as a “Storm Ready” community. The NWS “StormReady” program essentially helps arm America's communities with the knowledge, communication and safety skills needed to save lives and protect property - StormReady helps coordinate with local government officials and emergency managers (ESDA) to strengthen municipal safety and response plans. These NWS accredited communities are far better prepared for the onslaught of severe weather because they; consider local threat assessment issues, provide advanced planning and mitigation of potential hazards, continue ongoing public education programs and provide situational awareness to the community before, during and after a severe weather event.” Mayor McCormick states the

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Department of Theater and Dance is thrilled to announce its upcoming production, "Dance in Concert," under the artistic direction of Kristin Best Kinscherff, associate professor and head of dance. Performances will take place in Dunham Hall on the SIUE campus from Thursday, Nov. 14-Saturday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m., with a special matinee performance at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16, themed "Next Generation of Dancers" Day. This dynamic concert showcases a diverse array of dance styles: including contemporary, Afro-fusion, and tap, promising an exhilarating evening for audiences of all ages. The production features the talents of SIUE faculty and guest artists who have crafted unique and innovative pieces for the stage. "This year's 'Dance in Concert' promises to be a vibrant celebration of movement, creativity, and collaboration," said Best Kinscherff. "We are excited to showcase the talents of our students alongside our esteemed

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WASHINGTON, D.C. - Illinois Senator and combat veteran Tammy Duckworth had strong words for Pete Hegseth while appearing on CNN to discuss Donald Trump 's pick for Defense Secretary. Duckworth, who lost both legs after being shot down in a helicopter while serving with the Illinois Army National Guard in Iraq, spoke with anchor Kaitlan Collins about Hegseth's comments on female combatants, calling him "out of touch," and lacking in experience. The Democratic Illinois senator was speaking out in response to a viral clip of Pete Hegseth, who said on a podcast: "I'm straight up saying we should not have women in combat roles." Former Fox & Friends host Hegseth made the comments last week on the podcast The Shawn Ryan Show , to promote his new book The War on Warriors . Duckworth, a Purple Heart recipient , told Collins: "This is not the Revolutionary War where there's some sort of a line in the sand, and combat is on one side, and the rest of us can stay behind the side an

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EDWARDSVILLE - Challenge Unlimited celebrated the completion of a new accessible addition at their Residential Options Community Mental Health home in Edwardsville. Located at 910 Esic Drive in Edwardsville, the Residential Options Community Mental Health home recently added 1,120 square feet. On Nov. 14, 2024, community leaders gathered at the home and spoke about the benefits of the new space and how it will further Challenge Unlimited’s mission. “It’s been a labor of love,” said Stephanie Schrage, marketing manager with Challenge Unlimited. The construction was funded by a $250,000 grant from the state of Illinois. Berco Construction completed the project in three months. The new space includes a private med room, an accessible bathroom, two additional bedrooms, and a dining and kitchen area. The house accommodates eight residents, most of whom have their own room. The new space makes the house more accessible, so people can stay there for longer

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