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GODFREY - Specialist Christopher Sichra, a former member of the U.S. Army, reflects on his military service that spanned two enlistments during critical periods in American history. Sichra served from 1987 to 1991, participating in the Cold War and the Gulf War. Sichra's first enlistment took him to the 69th Ordinance Company in Longare, Italy, where he was deployed for two years. His duties included serving as a Nuclear Weapons Specialist with the Southern European Task Force (SETAF), which operated in Italy, Greece, and Turkey. After his initial term, he transitioned to Bravo Company of the 303rd Military Intelligence Battalion, where he trained and became a certified Military Intelligence Analyst at Fort Hood, Texas. Throughout his military career, Sichra earned several medals and honors, including the Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, Presidential Unit Citation, and the Expert Rifle Marksmanship

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EDWARDSVILLE — The Edwardsville High School Marching Band, known as the Marching Tigers, will hold its final community performance after the Edwardsville football game on Friday night at the EHS Sports Complex, Tiger Stadium. This free event will showcase the band’s show for the 2024-25 season, titled "The Origins of E-vil." The performance marks the culmination of a busy competition season for the Marching Tigers, who will also compete at the Bands of America (BOA) St. Louis Super Regional at 5:15 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 25, 2024. Additionally, the band will perform during halftime at the senior night home football game against DeSmet on the same day. Should the Marching Tigers qualify for the finals at the BOA St. Louis, they will perform again on Saturday. This past weekend, the Marching Tigers participated in the BOA Indy Super Regional in Indianapolis, where they performed at Lucas Oil Stadium. The band placed ninth in their class and 35th overall, competing against 88

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O'FALLON - Join us on Thursday, Nov. 7, 6-7:30 p.m., for “From Southern Illinois to Ukraine: A Faith Response by HSHS,” to learn about how HSHS hospitals in the southern Illinois area are helping provide critical resources to health care facilities around the world, including Ukraine. The event will be held at St. Clare Church, located at 1411 Cross St., O’Fallon, Ill. Amid war in Ukraine, Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach – a global health affiliate of HSHS – has shipped five 40’ containers of requested medical supplies and equipment to Ukrainian hospitals. HSHS hospitals in southern Illinois, including St. Elizabeth’s Hospital-O’Fallon, St. Joseph’s Hospital-Breese, St. Joseph’s Hospital-Highland and Holy Family Hospital-Greenville, contributed to the effort to support Ukrainian hospitals in both rural and urban areas who are delivering health care to their communities, even with an influx of internal refugees and both

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As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, fall invites us to indulge in the warmth of comfort foods. The transition from summer to autumn is not just a seasonal change; it’s an opportunity to embrace hearty, soul-satisfying dishes that evoke feelings of nostalgia and togetherness. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best comfort foods to prepare this fall, providing you with delicious recipes, tips, and ideas that are sure to warm your heart and home. The Essence of Comfort Food Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts and kitchens. Defined by its ability to evoke positive emotions, these dishes often remind us of family gatherings, childhood memories, or seasonal traditions. Common characteristics of comfort food include rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and a sense of familiarity. As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, it’s the perfect time to dive into recipes that nourish both the body and soul. Hearty Soups and Stews

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October 23rd has witnessed a plethora of significant historical events across various fields, including politics, science, culture, and sports. In 1942, during World War II, the Battle of El Alamein began in Egypt. This pivotal conflict saw the Allied forces, led by British General Bernard Montgomery, face off against the German and Italian troops commanded by Field Marshal Erwin Rommel. The battle marked a turning point in the North African campaign. Montgomery's forces launched a series of attacks that ultimately led to a decisive victory, which halted the Axis advance into Egypt and began a slow push westward. The significance of this battle cannot be overstated, as it bolstered Allied morale and set the stage for further successes in the war. On October 23, 1973, the Yom Kippur War officially came to an end with the signing of the ceasefire agreement. This conflict had erupted on the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur, when Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack against Israel.

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GRANITE CITY - The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that a full closure of eastbound Interstate 270 between Illinois 3 and Riverview Drive in Missouri is scheduled to take place for approximately one hour between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. on Thursday night, Oct. 24, 2024, weather permitting. The closure is necessary to install an overhead sign truss. All lanes will reopen when work is complete, no later than 5 a.m. Friday, Oct. 25. Motorists should plan accordingly and are encouraged to use alternate routes during this closure. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com .

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GLEN CARBON - Glen Carbon trustees on Tuesday unanimously approved the final draft of an updated Parks & Trails Master Plan, putting a long-term vision in place for outdoor recreation, multi-modal transportation, and more. The full 140-page plan was developed by TWM Inc. in association with Planning Design Studio. Among other details, it outlines the step-by-step process by which the new plan will be developed and implemented. The new plan, which replaces the village’s 2010 Master Park Plan, calls for improvements to be made to each of Glen Carbon’s 11 parks. These include Acme Park, Bird Park, Butterfly Park, Cottonwood Park, Greenspace East, Honor Roll Park, Miner Park, Mont Station Park, Sasek Park, Schon Park, and Village Hall. The new master plan will guide the village’s “forward vision for its park system over the next 10 to 20 years,” according to a resolution to adopt the plan. This is part of the village’s goal to become more

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EDWARDSVILLE — The murder trial of Roger Dale Sutton Jr., 57, began Tuesday in Edwardsville, with opening statements and testimonies regarding the January 2013 death of Patrenia Butler-Turner, a 40-year-old woman from East St. Louis who had been missing for nearly a decade. Sutton faces two counts of first-degree murder and one count of concealment of a homicidal death in connection with Butler-Turner’s death. He was charged in February 2023, following the discovery of Butler-Turner’s remains on December 5, 2022, in a wooded area along Illinois 111 in Pontoon Beach behind the Busy Bee Storage where he worked. Her family had reported her missing on January 17, 2013. During opening statements, the prosecution alleged that Sutton punched Butler-Turner, strangled her, and then disposed of her body behind a storage facility. They also stated that Sutton's nephew, Nathan Beyer, provided crucial information to law enforcement about the incident and the location

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WOOD RIVER - After much discussion and debate, Wood River City Council members have officially voted to ban unaccompanied minors from Central Park. The park has reportedly become a “ hotbed of illegal activity ” as Police Chief Brad Wells has reported “numerous violent incidents and other illegal activity perpetrated by area youths” in recent months. The ordinance prohibits minors from being present at Central Park unless supervised by a “parent, legal guardian, or other responsible adult” over the age of 25. During the public comment portion of Monday’s City council meeting , one resident said that while illegal activity isn’t a new phenomenon at Central Park, she agreed something needs to be done about it. However, she raised concerns about a lack of transparency about these incidents and the measures that would be taken to prevent them. These concerns prompted a response from Mayor Tom Stalcup, who said the city has

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EDWARDSVILLE – Halloween is creeping up quickly in Edwardsville and there’s a fun holiday lineup, including the ever-popular downtown Halloween parade, City Parks & Recreation events and community trick-or-treating, through Thursday, October 31. The City of Edwardsville has gathered details on what you need to know to safely enjoy the fun. The Edwardsville Parks & Recreation Department will kick off the Halloween festivities early, with community events on Friday and Saturday, October 25-26. The R.P. Lumber Center, 6289 Tiger Drive, will host a “Spooky Skate” night from 6:30-8 p.m. Friday, October 25. It will include an ice skating performance, costume contest, crafts and games, candy, photo opportunities and skating. Normal skate session fees apply. On Saturday, October 26, the Parks & Recreation Department’s Halloween Party in the Park will feature a Community Candy Walk from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and the Halloween Costume Contest for multiple ages,

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MADISON COUNTY - As the community gears up for Election Day on Nov. 5, 2024, here are the candidates you can expect to see on your ballot in Madison County. For President and Vice President of the United States There are three options for president and vice president. Republican Donald Trump and his vice presidential candidate J.D. Vance are running against Democrat Kamala Harris and her vice presidential candidate Tim Walz. Independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his vice presidential candidate Nicole Shannahan are also on the ballot, though Kennedy has suspended his campaign. You also have the option to write in a candidate. For Representative in Congress 13th Congressional District At the congressional level, Republican Joshua Loyd is running against incumbent Nikki Budzinski , a Democrat. You also have the option to write in a candidate. The 13th Congressional District covers Macoupin County and parts of St. Clair, Madison, Sangamon, Piatt, Macon and Champaig

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CHICAGO - On Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024, Governor JB Pritzker joined Maryville, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), elected officials, and community partners to cut the ribbon on a new temporary housing program: Maryville’s St. Catherine of Siena. This program will serve up to 10 youth in care who are ready to be discharged from intensive medical facilities but are still in need of transitional care due to their complex medical needs. “Across the state and especially here in Chicago, too many of our children and families – particularly those with urgent and complex medical needs – have to overcome significant barriers to secure the care they need. We have made it our mission to leap over those hurdles and ensure every child in Illinois receives the quality, accessible care they deserve,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I am deeply proud that support from DCFS could bring this project to life with a $1 million capital investment

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EDWARDSVILLE – Nationally recognized for representing victims of asbestos exposure, The Gori Law Firm recently announced hiring Mathias Bartlett as its latest associate attorney. Bartlett joins the firm’s asbestos litigation practice out of its office in New York City, where he provides legal guidance to individuals navigating complications and illnesses associated with asbestos exposure. Bartlett began his legal career as a public defender in Portland, Oregon, before transitioning to criminal defense firms. There, he developed a passion for family law, handling cases involving divorce, child custody, spousal support, property division and more. “Our attorneys help individuals across the country navigate legal complexities and, oftentimes, life-changing situations. With his background and experience working with families on delicate issues pertaining to family law as well as his experience as a public defender, we are happy to have Mathias as part of The

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ALTON - Alton High School's Future Farmers of America (FFA) students recently contributed to their community by raising funds for the Alton Police Department's K9 Fund in memory of fallen K9 officer Odin. The presentation of the check took place last week at the school, where students and their advisor, Scott Vernum, expressed their support for the local police force. The initiative underscores the FFA's commitment to community service and honors the legacy of K9 officer Odin, who served the Alton community. The funds raised will support the ongoing needs of the K9 unit, ensuring that the department can continue its work effectively. “This donation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students,” said Vernum. The event highlights the importance of collaboration between local organizations and the community in supporting law enforcement efforts.

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ALTON - Two individuals from Alton face the same felony charges as the only adults among a six-person group accused of robbing two teenagers. Savion S. Holloway and Sincere T. Holloway, both 19, of Alton, were charged on Oct. 15, 2024 with two counts each of aggravated robbery, all Class 1 felonies. On Sept. 26, 2024, both Savion and Sincere allegedly stole U.S. currency from a 14-year-old victim and Nike Air Force One sneakers from a different 14-year-old victim. Descriptions of the charges against both state they indicated they were armed with a firearm during the incident. Two petitions were filed to deny Savion and Sincere’s release, which state they were the two adults among six total people involved in the robbery. “Two 14-year-old victims reported that they were approached by a group of six young men, who demanded that they empty their pockets and take off their shoes,” the petition states. “One of the six in the group indicated that he was armed

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ALTON - Mom Said No and Mississippi Hippie in Alton are hosting their first-ever “ Creepin’ It Real ” event this Saturday, featuring a food truck, live music, exclusive discounts, a costume contest, and a book signing with #1 international best-selling author Tara Hurst. “Creepin’ It Real” takes place this Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024 from 12 to 4 p.m. at Mom Said No, located at 300 E. Broadway in Alton. On Saturday only, the shop is offering its first-ever storewide sale - everything in the store will be 10% off, but there are multiple ways you can double your discount. To get 20% off storewide, visitors can either wear a costume and tag themselves on social media with the Mom Said No shop sign or show a receipt from the day of the event showing their purchase of Hurst’s book “Still Perfectly I’Mperfect,” an inspiring collection of women’s tales of triumph while embracing their imperfections. Live music

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ALTON - Frank Gaither, a veteran from Alton, served in the U.S. Navy from 1960 to 1979, participating in the Vietnam War. Frank is now 82 years of age. Gaither held the rank of Chief Boatswain and was assigned to the 1st and 2nd Division, where he specialized as a deep-sea diver and salvage expert. Throughout his military career, Gaither earned several honors, including the Presidential Unit Citation, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. These accolades reflect Frank's commitment and contributions during a pivotal time in U.S. history. The information about Gaither was submitted by his younger brother, Dave Gaither, who expressed pride in his brother's service. The submission highlights the importance of recognizing veterans and their sacrifices. To contribute a Veteran Salute, click here.

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ALTON – To shed light on domestic violence and remember the victims and their families, Alton Memorial Hospital, the Third Judicial Family Violence Prevention Council and Oasis Women’s Center are hosting a special memorial service from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024, in the AMH Café Meeting Rooms. One in every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime, and anyone can be a victim regardless of gender, age, race, income, or sexual orientation. In Madison County since 1996, at least 150 people have died in domestic violence-related circumstances. Because of the prevalence of domestic violence, Alton Memorial Hospital in 2002 began screening for domestic violence for everyone 12 and older who was being assessed in the hospital. Trained staff members confidentially ask these patients if they feel safe at home or have experienced mental, physical, or sexual abuse. Alton Memorial supports a coordinated domestic violence committee that includes

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O’FALLON — Fire officials are urging residents to prioritize fire safety as they kick off National Fire Prevention Month with a press conference scheduled at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024. The event will take place at the O’Fallon Fire Department Headquarters, located at 1215 Taylor Road. This year’s theme, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!” emphasizes the critical role of functional smoke alarms in preventing residential fire deaths. O’Fallon Fire Department Chief Brad White, Deputy Chief Doug Barron, and representatives from the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance will highlight the department's no-cost smoke alarm installation program available to O’Fallon residents. In 2023, Illinois recorded 89 residential fire deaths, with the majority occurring in homes lacking working smoke alarms. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), having a working smoke alarm can reduce

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SOUTH ROXANA - At 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, there will be a colorball game night with a total payout of $4,400 over the course of 12 colorball games with four additional raffles. This night will be hosted by the South Roxana Dad’s Club, a non-profit organization where Tony Venezia, the longest-serving member, will be there. The South Roxana Dad’s Club was started by several fathers who wanted to have a little carnival for the Boy Scouts and was ultimately chartered with the state of Illinois on Sept. 11, 1948. In the early days of the club, they threw big homecomings that only got bigger throughout the 65 years they went on until homecomings started going downhill. “In 1972 we started having bingo on Saturday nights to help get income,” Venezia said. “That’s how we ended up having bingo be our sole sport. Four years ago, we opened a little pub in our clubhouse which has gaming and several pool leagues that help pay the bills so we

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