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CLINTON COUNTY - A 65-year-old woman from Swansea died Monday, Sept. 8, 2025, in a head-on collision on U.S. 50 at St. Rose Road in Clinton County, authorities said. Margaret Smith was pronounced dead at 1:43 p.m. on Monday at the scene, according to the Clinton County Coroner's Office. The Illinois State Police said the crash occurred around 12:38 p.m. Monday, Sept. 8, 2025, when an eastbound Chevrolet SUV crossed into the westbound lane and onto the shoulder of U.S. 50 before swerving back into the eastbound lane and striking a Chrysler minivan head-on. Smith was a passenger in the minivan. State Police said the drivers of both vehicles were airlifted to a regional hospital.

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GRANITE CITY - Granite City School District #9 received a $5,000 donation from United States Steel Corporation to support student hygiene needs for the 2025-26 school year. The contribution was announced recently at Granite City, where district and company representatives gathered to mark the occasion. The donation aims to assist students by providing necessary hygiene supplies, addressing a critical aspect of student well-being. “Thank you, US Steel, for all you do in our community and for your continued support of our GCSD9 students,” the district expressed in a statement. Present at the announcement were Mike Patton, General Manager of Granite City Works; Robin Sampson, Employee Relations HR Business Partner; Laura Ahlers, Senior Department Manager of Material Movement and Finishing; and Dr. Donald Harris, Superintendent of Granite City School District #9. The partnership highlights ongoing community support efforts to enhance student resources within the district.

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HARDIN — On the evening of August 12, 2025, law enforcement responded to a burglary alarm at a pharmacy in the 100 block of S. County Road in Hardin, Calhoun County. The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office received notification at approximately 9:42 p.m. and arrived promptly at the scene. Witnesses at the location reported seeing a suspect climb out of a pharmacy window and flee on foot. Officers from the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Illinois Conservation Police, conducted a thorough search throughout the night but were unable to locate the individual. Chief Deputy Zach Hardin processed the crime scene and led an investigation that confirmed the suspect’s identity through multiple eyewitness accounts. On August 18, 2025, the Calhoun County State’s Attorney’s Office issued an arrest warrant for Tyler M. Buckingham, 24, of Bethalto, charging him with burglary. Buckingham was apprehended on August 23 by the Alton Police Department

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Did you know that over 25 million teddy bears are sold worldwide each year? This simple, plush toy holds a unique place in the hearts of children and adults alike, symbolizing comfort, companionship, and nostalgia. National Teddy Bear Day celebrates this iconic figure, but its significance goes beyond just a playful nod to a childhood favorite. It’s a day that honors a rich cultural history, reflects emotional connections, and encourages acts of kindness. Understanding the origins and importance of National Teddy Bear Day reveals why this seemingly modest toy has become a global symbol of warmth and empathy. The Origins of National Teddy Bear Day National Teddy Bear Day is celebrated annually on September 9th, a date chosen to honor the beloved teddy bear’s enduring presence in popular culture. The story of the teddy bear’s origin dates back to 1902 and is closely linked to a historical event involving then-President Theodore Roosevelt. In November 1902, President

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September 9 has been a day marked by remarkable events across the globe, shaping the course of history in politics, science, culture, and more. One of the most impactful global events occurred in 1948 when the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) was officially established. This marked a significant development in the geopolitical landscape of the 20th century, as the Korean Peninsula became divided into two distinct nations, setting the stage for decades of tension and conflict during the Cold War era. The establishment of North Korea shaped not only regional dynamics in East Asia but also influenced international relations, with lasting effects felt even today. Earlier in history, on September 9, 1850, California was admitted as the 31st state of the United States of America. This was a pivotal moment in American history, particularly in the context of westward expansion and the ongoing debate over slavery. California's admission as a free state was part of the Compromise

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COLLINSVILLE - Collinsville High School’s Black Student Union took part in the 2025 Gospel Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, in St. Louis, where they served as award presenters. The invitation recognized the students’ dedication to cultural awareness, leadership, and community engagement. The Gospel Music Hall of Fame honors artists, musicians and visionaries who have shaped gospel music, a genre deeply rooted in the African American experience. JoAnna Kelly, sponsor of the CHS Black Student Union, said the event connects the students with a broader cultural legacy. “This is a tremendous honor for our students,” Kelly said. “Gospel music is deeply rooted in the African American experience, often serving as a vessel for passing down stories of struggle, resilience, and hope. To have our students participate in this historic event not only validates their efforts but also connects them with a broader cultural legacy.&rdquo

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ALTON – A $10,000 proposal for Alton to participate in the 40 Days of Nonviolence Initiative was put on hold Monday after the Committee of the Whole laid the item over until their next meeting. A resolution on Monday’s agenda called for the allocation of $10,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the city and partnering organizations to host six weeks of events and programs aimed at curbing violence and supporting mental/physical health, career skills, and more in Alton youth. More details about the proposal are available in this previous story on Riverbender.com . Joe Lewis Jr., a member of the 40 Days of Nonviolence Executive Committee, spoke during the Public Comment portion of the meeting in support of the initiative. He said the group’s efforts have helped significantly reduce crime in East St. Louis since it began in 2014 and would like to see that success spread to Alton. “We’ve met with some of the community leaders ... We think

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SAINT LOUIS - Monster Jam is coming to St. Louis, and one driver can’t wait to share his iconic truck with the region. Tyler Menniga, known as the driver of the legendary Grave Digger, looks forward to Monster Jam on Sept. 20, 2025, at The Dome at America’s Center. He loves keeping people guessing and sharing the truck’s legacy with new fans. “I try to be the craziest driver on the track at all times,” Menniga said. “It’s definitely just cool to be driving the Grave Digger truck and be behind the wheel. I can't wait to get to St. Louis. I’m very excited and can’t wait for that event.” Menniga has been driving Grave Digger since he was 18. He shared that he was always “a gearhead and a motorsports fanatic,” but getting behind the wheel of Grave Digger unlocked a whole new love for him. “I got the keys to a Monster Truck when I was 18 years old. That’s crazy,” he laughed. “I went from

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WOOD RIVER - Pro Automotive Services will celebrate 35 years of business with an open house this weekend. From 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, community members can stop by Pro Automotive Services in Wood River for food, attendance prizes and games. Owners Mike and Jennifer Baggett expressed their excitement to share the 35-year milestone with the community. “It’s been an adventure,” Mike said. “My dad told me a long time ago, if you find something that you know you love to do, you’ll never work a day in your life. I don’t feel that I’ve worked for 35 years. It’s just something I enjoy doing.” On Sept. 13, community members can enjoy free hotdogs, chips, soda and Dippin’ Dots. Those who are up to the challenge can shoot a hole-in-one on a 35-foot putt to win a free oil change. There will also be attendance prizes and additional games for kids to enjoy. Mike and Jennifer are eager to celebrate. While

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GRANITE CITY — Granite City will hold a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony for First Responders at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 11, 2025. The event will take place in front of the Police and Fire Departments located at 2330 and 2300 Madison Avenue. The ceremony aims to honor the service and sacrifice of first responders on the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2025, attack.

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ALTON - Community members are invited to the Alton Moose Lodge 951 for a full weekend of live music. On Friday, Sept. 12, and Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, the Moose Lodge will host Moosestock, a music festival complete with four bands, ten vendors, and plenty of fun. Tickets cost $5 pre-sale or $8 at the door on Saturday. Lodge Administrator Keith Northway encourages people to come out and see what the Moose has to offer. “If people come to the Moose this weekend, one thing they can expect is some great music,” Northway said. “I was looking for a way to increase the activity of the members, so I came up with this idea for Moosestock. I thought it was an awesome idea.” On Friday, #4 Combo Band takes the stage at 7 p.m. This will be followed by Rum Boogie Band at 1 p.m. on Saturday and City Heat Band at 5 p.m. The evening concludes with Array of Saint Louis at 9 p.m. But the fun doesn’t stop there. While the bands conclude at midnight, Northway promises

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ST. LOUIS - Daniel Tossey, a 17-year-old senior at Edwardsville High School, began his first season with the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra by performing at the ensemble’s inaugural concert in the newly renovated Powell Hall on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025. Tossey, who plays clarinet, joined the Youth Orchestra after nearly a decade of musical development and local recognition. Tossey joined a fellow EHS player, violist Ian Kim , in the orchestra on Sunday. The St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra is a 100-member ensemble composed of accomplished young musicians from the St. Louis region and beyond. The orchestra, which performs expert-level repertoire at three concerts each season, is nationally recognized for its artistic quality. Musicians aged 12 to 22 receive coaching from St. Louis Symphony Orchestra members and participate in a peer mentorship program. Founded in 1970 by SLSO Conductor Laureate Leonard Slatkin, the Youth Orchestra has more than 2,000 alumni. Tossey began playin

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EDWARDSVILLE - Ian Kim, a 10th grader and violist, and an Edwardsville student, joined other young musicians in the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra at the newly renovated Powell Hall on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in St. Louis. The event marked a significant milestone for the youth ensemble, showcasing emerging talent in a celebrated concert hall. Kim, a rising sophomore at Edwardsville High School, is in his second year with the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra’s viola section. He studies under Chris Tantillo of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and also pursues piano studies through Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Keyboard Program. Kim began his musical journey on the violin before switching to the viola at age 7. Throughout his musical career, Kim has earned top marks at the Illinois Grade School Music Association Solo and Ensemble Competitions since sixth grade. He has participated in multiple Illinois Music Educators Association festivals, including serving

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ALTON – Alton officials are set to consider $10,000 in ARPA funds for a 40-day initiative to host six weeks of nonviolent events and programs to curb violence in the city. A resolution appears on the Alton Committee of the Whole agenda for tonight, Sept. 8, 2025, authorizing the disbursement of $10,000 worth of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to the 40 Days of Nonviolence Initiative. The resolution was referred to the committee by Alderwoman Rosetta Brown at the last Alton City Council meeting. According to the group’s mission statement, 40 Days of Nonviolence is “a faith-based and community-driven initiative whose purpose is to deter and ultimately eliminate violence in our communities through education, awareness, and job creation.” Since its founding in 2014, 40 Days has partnered with several state and local organizations to host events and improve recreational facilities, starting in East St. Louis. Among other initiatives, the group facilitated

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GODFREY – Lewis and Clark Community College’s Professor of Mathematics Molly Freimuth is the winner of the 2025 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award. Each year, Emerson Electric Company sponsors the Excellence in Teaching Awards program to recognize educators in the St. Louis metropolitan area – from kindergarten teachers to college professors – who are examples of excellence in their field. Freimuth feels honored to be recognized for doing something she loves. “I was totally surprised,” she said. “We have so many amazing teachers on this campus, and I feel like mathematics is a subject that is not always considered the most exciting. Our department has been recognized several times before, but I feel so special that it was me this time.” Dean of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Tom Steinmann believes Freimuth is very deserving of the honor. “Molly exemplifies all of the characteristics of an Emerson

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MIDDLEFIELD, OHIO - The Middlefield Original Cheese Co-Op facility in Middlefield, OH is recalling one lot of Sunrise Creamery Dilly Pickle Monterey Jack Cheese with Dill Pickles in 6 oz. and 1.25 lb. packages, one lot of Organic Gouda Cheese in 8 oz. packages, and specific lots of Mozzarella/Provolone Cheese, Cheddar Cheese, Pepper Jack Cheese, Swiss Cheese, and Monterey Jack Cheese packaged as 5 lb. loaves or 5 lb. shredded bags because of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes , an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. The recalled products were produced on May 30th, 2025 and August 13th, 2025 and distributed in Ohio, Minnesota,

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MOUNT OLIVE — Trey W. Fenton, 34, of Mount Olive, was charged Friday with felony Criminal Trespass to a Residence Fenton allegedly entered a home in Mount Olive without permission on September 4, 2025. The case was presented to the Macoupin County State’s Attorney’s office by the Mount Olive Police Department. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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CHICAGO – As National Grandparents’ Day approaches, Attorney General Kwame Raoul urges consumers to be aware of scams targeting older adults. Raoul is encouraging people to avoid responding to unsolicited phone calls, emails or text messages, and to hang up immediately if they are suspicious about a call. “Scammers often prey on older adults,” Raoul said. “This Grandparents’ Day, as we celebrate all that grandparents and community elders do for our homes, workplaces, and neighborhoods, I also encourage them and their families to be informed and vigilant about avoiding financial fraud and identity theft.” Most scams start with an unsolicited or unexpected contact, try to elicit intense emotions and claim a need for an urgent response. For example, scammers may threaten to revoke a driver’s license unless there is immediate payment to address alleged unpaid tolls. Scammers also might reach out with a supposed one-time offer for

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced an $8.4 million settlement with Clearview Electric Inc. (Clearview Energy) that resolves allegations the alternative retail electric supplier (ARES) engaged in fraudulent, unfair and deceptive business practices to mislead Illinois consumers into paying millions of dollars more for electricity than consumers who stayed with their default public utility. The settlement will provide restitution to eligible Illinois customers who received residential electricity supply services from Clearview Energy. The restitution amounts will largely be based upon eligible customers’ electricity usage during the period in which they purchased electricity from Clearview Energy. “Companies like Clearview Energy must be held accountable for deceiving Illinois residents into overpaying for the energy they need,” Raoul said. “My office is committed to protecting consumers from deceptive practices like misrepresentations

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ALTON – OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center is pleased to announce that it has received the prestigious Energy to Care® Sustained Performance Award from the American Society for Health Care Engineering (ASHE) of the American Hospital Association. OSF Saint Anthony’s was recognized for this achievement at ASHE’s Health Care Facilities Innovation Conference in Columbus, Ohio, on July 30. Energy to Care is ASHE’s award-winning program dedicated to helping health care facilities track their energy, water and emissions reduction efforts and celebrates hospitals and health systems that go above and beyond in achieving their environmental impact reduction goals. The Sustained Performance Award recognizes past Energy to Care Award winners that have continued to see progress in these efforts by further reducing or maintaining reduced emissions. OSF Saint Anthony’s is one of 267 facilities to earn the Sustained Performance Award in 2025, representing

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