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EDWARDSVILLE - Ameren Illinois spokesperson Brian Bretsch reported that the company is currently working to reroute power from other circuits to restore service to affected customers. As of the latest update, the outage count is decreasing, and crews are optimistic about restoring power by 12:45 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024. Bretsch said as of 11:15 a.m. today all but 14 customers involved in the outage had power restored. The incident occurred at approximately 9:20 a.m. Tuesday, prompting immediate action from utility crews. "The 14 customers who are closest to the accident scene are still without power," Bretsch said. "Ameren Illinois is in the process of re-routing power from other circuits in the area to restore power for customers impacted by the vehicle-utility pole accident this morning at 9:20 a.m. "The outage count is going down. We hope to have customers restored by 12:45 p.m. today. "Our crews will stay on the scene near our Wanda Substation to stabilize the utility

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EDWARDSVILLE - In October, employees of Revity Credit Union came together to raise $4,562.15 for the American Cancer Society through their Revel for a Cause Jeans Program. The Revel for a Cause Jeans Program is an employee funded program that gives Revity Credit Union employees the opportunity to support the credit union philosophy of people helping people. By making a monthly, monetary donation to a local organization, Revity Credit Union employees can wear jeans and tennis shoes on Fridays and Saturdays during that month. At Revity Credit Union, our commitment lies in supporting our community and prioritizing our members' well-being. Revity has proudly selected the American Cancer Society as the recipient of their Revel for a Cause donation. During the month of October, Revity Credit Union proudly contributed $4,562.15 to the American Cancer Society. This generous donation resulted from collaborative efforts: $1,191 was collected through the jeans program, while $3,371.15 came

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EDWARDSVILLE - Lewis and Clark Community College’s N.O. Nelson Campus in Edwardsville will hold an Industrial Careers Open House on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024. This career fair/networking event is open to both potential students and L&C alumni who would like to learn more about the careers available to them with training from L&C’s Process Operations Technology and Industrial Electricity programs. According to Assistant Professor of Process Operations Technology Paul Kuebrich, those considering an industrial career will have the chance to speak directly to professionals who are actively engaged in the industrial sector. “This will be an opportunity to ask questions, gain insights and network with individuals who have experience and knowledge,” he said. “You will be able to take a guided tour of our state-of-the-art facilities and labs, and see the environment in which you will gain hands-on skills that are in high demand by employers.” Area employer

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COLLINSVILLE — The Illinois State Police (ISP) Troop 8 conducted Roadside Safety Checks (RSC) in Madison and St. Clair counties in October, resulting in a total of 88 citations and arrests aimed at enhancing road safety. Captain Casey Faro, the commander of ISP Troop 8, announced the results of the RSCs, which included three driving under the influence (DUI) citations and ten other alcohol or drug-related citations. In addition, law enforcement issued citations for various traffic violations, including 12 occupant restraint offenses, 32 registration offenses, 30 driver’s license offenses, and 14 insurance violations. Officers also provided 24 written warnings during the checks. According to ISP, alcohol and drug impairment contributes to over 47% of all fatal motor vehicle crashes in Illinois, highlighting the importance of such safety initiatives. Nationally, there is an alcohol-related traffic fatality every 39 minutes. The RSCs are part of a broader effort to remove dangerou

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COLLINSVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting a career fair Nov. 13 in Collinsville. The fair will be held from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Gateway Convention Center, 1 Gateway Drive. Representatives from the offices and bureaus who oversee both technical and administrative support responsibilities will be available to discuss current and upcoming employment opportunities at various IDOT locations. Attendees can learn how to apply for state jobs and attend breakout sessions. Partners from Central Management Services will be available to help explain the application process. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office will have staff present to answer questions on obtaining a commercial driver’s license for positions where one is required. The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs also will be available to provide guidance on programs and services for qualified veterans. While a limited number of computers will be available

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EDWARDSVILLE — A vehicle crash has left the Madison County Courthouse and Administration Building without power, affecting operations in the area. The incident report to Ameren Illinois occurred around 9:20 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, when a car struck a pole near the Wanda substation, resulting in a loss of electricity for approximately 7,700 customers in the Edwardsville area. By 11 a.m. Tuesday, all but 14 customers had their power restored. Cynthia Ellis, a spokesperson for Madison County, confirmed that while the Criminal Justice Center remains operational with generator power, the main courthouse and administration building are currently without electricity. Ellis reported that, as of 11 a.m. on Tuesday, the power at the courthouse had been restored. Brian Bretsch, a spokesperson for Ameren Illinois, stated that crews are engaged in the situation and are assessing the damage. He also confirmed that everyone should have power restored on Tuesday between 12:30 and 12:45

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CLAYTON, MO - The National Memorial of Military Ascent (NMMA) is excited to announce that Jayne and John Simmons, along with Simmons Hanly Conroy Law Firm, have pledged a $2.5 million donation toward the completion of the NMMA. This generous contribution will support the ongoing construction of the memorial, which honors the sacrifices of U.S. military veterans, and will serve as a key funding boost in the effort to bring this monumental project to life. The announcement was presented at the NMMA’s Veterans Day Fundraiser, held at Café Napoli in Clayton, Missouri, on Monday, November 11, 2024. The event gathered community members, veterans, and supporters to pay tribute to the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces while raising additional funds for the memorial. This remarkable donation provides crucial support for the ongoing construction of the memorial, which is poised to become a landmark tribute to the U.S. Armed Forces. "This contribution

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PONTOON BEACH - Madison County Transit (MCT) is proud to announce a new partnership with Chestnut Health Systems™ (Chestnut), a private, not-for-profit organization, aimed at providing critical support to MCT bus passengers. Beginning Dec. 1, 2024, Chestnut will deploy behavioral health teams at MCT transfer stations, on MCT buses, and on MCT Trails throughout Madison County. These professionals will engage riders, conduct screenings, and link individuals to necessary services, including mental health, substance use, primary medical care, as well as community and recovery supports. “We’re finding that a growing number of individuals who ride MCT buses are in need of services that we’re not equipped to provide,” said MCT Managing Director SJ Morrison. “This partnership allows MCT to come alongside our passengers and get them the help they need.” Chestnut’s team will work with Agency for Community Transit (ACT) drivers, road supervisors,

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O’FALLON – Prairie Cardiovascular is pleased to welcome Megan Lanter, PA-C, to their team in O’Fallon. Lanter is now scheduling patients at Prairie Cardiovascular – O’Fallon, found at Three St. Elizabeth's Blvd., Suite 2800, in O’Fallon. Working in cardiac units led to Lanter’s choice to become a physician assistant who specializes in cardiac care. She believes listening to and educating patients are important ways to partner with patients in improving their health. Lanter earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Ill. Call 618-529-4455 or visit prairieheart.org to schedule your appointment with one of the providers of Prairie.

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Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday in many households, celebrated with family gatherings, gratitude, and of course, a feast that often steals the show. While the turkey is typically the centerpiece of the meal, the side dishes play a crucial role in elevating the dining experience. This article explores some of the best Thanksgiving side dishes, offering ideas, recipes, and tips to help you create a memorable holiday spread. Classic Favorites 1. Mashed Potatoes Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving staple, loved for their creamy texture and comforting flavor. To make the perfect mashed potatoes, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. Boil them until tender, then mash with butter, cream, salt, and pepper. For an extra twist, consider adding roasted garlic or sour cream for added richness. 2. Green Bean Casserole This dish combines green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions, making it a nostalgic favorite for many. To prepare, blanch fresh green beans and

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November 12 has been a significant date in history, marked by groundbreaking events that have shaped various aspects of our world, from politics and science to culture and sports. In the realm of politics, November 12, 1970, saw the introduction of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. Established in response to the growing environmental movement and concerns about pollution, the EPA was created to protect human health and the environment by enforcing regulations and conducting research. The establishment of the EPA marked a turning point in U.S. environmental policy and has played a crucial role in addressing various environmental issues over the decades, including air and water quality, chemical safety, and climate change. On the cultural front, November 12, 1996, marked the day when the world was introduced to the virtual pet phenomenon with the launch of Tamagotchi in the United States. Originally created in Japan, these digital pets required care

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EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s School of Engineering (SOE) held a room dedication and unveiling in honor of The Goley Companies. The family-owned company donated a $110,000 endowed gift to mark the company's 50th anniversary. SOE students are often employed by the company during their first or second year of academic instruction in the construction management program. With the endowment, select students are now Goley Company scholarship recipients. “I am elated with the strong support the Goley Companies have given to the school’s mission,” said Cem Karacal, PhD, and Dean of SOE. "Their engagement with our students through classroom visits, internships, and their mentorship early in their education is exactly what is needed to recruit and retain well-prepared students and graduates for the construction profession. We are happy to have a partner like Goley that shares a common vision to make an impact in our region.” Present

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ALTON — Aaron Kyles Jr. and a group of fellow musical artists are organizing a Winter Bash Day from 3 to 6 p.m. on Nov. 23, 2024, at James Killion Park, located at 2400 Washington Ave. The event aims to deliver a meaningful message to the Alton community through music, a free Thanksgiving dinner, and a clothing giveaway for children. Kyles Jr. emphasized the importance of the event, stating, "It will transcend mere positivity and seeks to touch the hearts of individuals." He believes that while politics and legislation play a role, true change comes from within. "Only God can transform the heart of a man and this is the catalyst for change in our city," he said. The Winter Bash is designed not only to entertain but also to uplift the community. Kyles Jr. described the Thanksgiving event as necessary to illuminate the challenges residents in the region face. The entertainment lineup includes performances from P Lott, Shooz Da Victory, Poetry 7, Manna, Coleboy Sedro, Jamel Robertson,

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BELLEVILLE — Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), today celebrated Veterans Day. Duckworth honored Veterans and their families today during the City of Belleville’s 26th Annual Veterans Day Ceremony alongside Belleville Mayor Patty Gregory and John Lawson, Superintendent for the Veterans Assistance Commission at St. Clair County. “Veterans Day is a day of celebration, it’s a moment for all of us to take some time to recognize and honor the service of everyone willing to put on the uniform and sacrifice to keep our great nation safe,” Duckworth said. “Despite the risks, despite the danger, thousands of the bravest people that you and I could ever meet still volunteer to serve in our country’s uniform every year. And when these heroes come home, they deserve more than just an ovation on Veterans Day itself.

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EDWARDSVILLE - The rich, vast and multifaceted aspects of Black scholarship should be taught, investigated and celebrated inside and outside of the classroom, according to Timothy E. Lewis, PhD, the new Director of Black Studies at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. “I want to take Black Studies out of the classroom, making it the premier unit on campus for implicit Black education, including documentary screenings, symposiums, historical celebrations and more,” said Lewis, interim chair of the Department of Social Work, and associate professor in the Department of Political Science. “I plan to not only rely on internal funding, but I am and will continue to pursue external funding and grants to fund the program’s efforts.” Lewis stepped in as director of Black Studies in October, following behind a long line of sage SIUE Black faculty members, the most recent being Kathryn Bentley, Professor Emeritus in the Department of Theater and Dance,

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The FDA has announced a recall of Kirkland Signature Sweet Cream Butter products due to an undeclared milk allergen. This butter, produced by Continental Dairy Facilities Southwest LLC, was distributed through Costco stores and may lack a clear “Contains Milk” warning on its packaging, potentially posing a risk for people with dairy allergies. What’s Behind the Costco Butter Recall? The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of approximately 79,200 pounds of Kirkland Signature Sweet Cream Butter products due to an undeclared milk allergen, raising concerns for individuals with dairy allergies. The butter, produced by Continental Dairy Facilities Southwest LLC, was distributed through Costco stores and may lack the necessary “Contains Milk” warning on its packaging. The recall, classified as Class II by the FDA on November 7, indicates that while serious health consequences are unlikely, there is still a risk of temporary or

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MADISON COUNTY / ST. CLAIR COUNTY – In recognition of Veterans Day, Chestnut Health Systems™ is proud to highlight the essential work of its Support Services for Veterans Families (SSVF) program, which provides critical support to veterans and their families in Madison and St. Clair counties. Recent statistics from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) show that more than 35,000 veterans experienced homelessness in 2022, marking a 7.4% increase from the previous year. Chestnut’s SSVF program works to combat this growing crisis by providing veterans with housing placement, rental assistance, case management, access to healthcare, financial planning, transportation assistance, employment services, and more. “When I came into the program, I wasn’t sure if I even wanted to keep on living,” said one veteran. “Now I have hope and I’m excited for the future.” Through a VA grant, Chestnut assists veterans who are either homeless

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ALTON - On a recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust, Tammy Iskarous shared how her faith journey inspired her to start Riverbend Family Ministries. Based in Wood River, Riverbend Family Ministries provides resources for nonprofits to work together and help families affected by violence, homelessness, substance use and more. Iskarous explained that she developed the idea for RFM after realizing that people could do more to help others if they collaborated. “I knew people who were doing some super great things. But they were doing it at home. They were doing it in the basement on the ping pong table. And they just couldn’t expand because they didn’t have the resources to do that,” she remembered. “I thought, ‘What if we put all of those together under one roof, share the overhead, share the space, share the things that make it almost impossible for people to do the good work?’” To provide holistic

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EDWARDSVILLE - Local teachers recently gathered in Edwardsville for a conference about teaching driver's education, complete with a demonstration from Ameren. Over 30 driver's ed instructors attended the Region Nine Driver Education Workshop on Nov. 1, 2024, at the R.P. Lumber Center in Edwardsville. Jennifer Brown, Illinois High School Driver Ed Association president, noted the importance of driver's ed and the value of collaboration between instructors. “This is 100% everything,” Brown said. “A lot of what we do, we share and feed off of one another. We’re not only in the classroom, but we’re behind the wheel too, right? And there’s huge challenges when it comes to that…These are invaluable tools for us to be able to talk and collaborate and get information.” Brown added that driver's ed is “one of the most important pieces of education” students receive at the high school level. At the conference, teachers learned

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JERSEY COUNTY - On Election Day, local voters made it clear where they stand on separating from Cook County (and its county seat, Chicago). Jersey County was just one Riverbend county to support separation, with 76% voting in favor - so what happens next? Long story short: nothing yet. But as Jersey County Board Chairman Gary Krueger points out, the referendum’s purpose wasn’t to make the separation official, but to gauge public opinion. “I knew it had no legal clout,” Krueger said. “For me, it was a chance to get the mood of Jersey County voters about this as the subject has been brought up before.” The referendum appeared on voters’ ballots as an advisory question, rather than a legally-binding question, which was worded as follows: "Shall the County Board of Jersey County correspond with the boards of other counties of Illinois outside of Cook County about the possibility of separating from Cook County to form a new state, and t

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