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ALTON - Students from Alton Middle School and Alton High School showcased their musical talents at the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) District 6 Festival recently at Belleville West High School. The event brought together passionate music students from across Southern Illinois for a day of learning and collaboration under the guidance of distinguished conductors. The festival featured a variety of performances, including Junior and Senior Chorus, Junior and Senior Bands, and orchestras. Participants included students from both schools, with notable performances in Junior Chorus by Adele Donoho, Aziya Ewing, and Isabel Linley, among others. The Junior Orchestra comprised talented musicians such as Anderson Brooks on violin and Arya Schaper on cello. Frank Lestina, a highly respected conductor, and Yuhm Pham, a well-known orchestra director from the Chicago suburbs, led the Junior and Senior orchestras, respectively. Their expertise was well-received, with students expressin

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CHICAGO – Amid the Mega Millions mania, an Illinois Lottery player swooped in and took home a $1 million Powerball prize. The winning ticket was purchased for the Saturday, December 21 Powerball drawing at a Jewel-Osco in Melrose Park, located at 800 North Avenue. The lucky player matched all five numbers, 1-12-17-21-58, to score the $1 million prize. For selling the winning ticket, the Jewel-Osco in Melrose Park will receive a one percent bonus of the prize amount, or $10,000. Winners have one year from the date of the winning draw to claim their prize. The Illinois Lottery encourages all lucky winners to write their name on the back of their ticket and keep it in a safe place until they’re ready to claim their prize. Powerball tickets are $2 each, and players have the option to add the Power Play feature for an additional $1 for the chance to multiply non-jackpot prizes. Powerball drawings are conducted Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday evenings at 9:59 PM CT. Th

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CHICAGO – Workers in Illinois who provide personal care to family members are protected from employment discrimination based on family responsibilities as of January 1, 2025. Illinois is now one of fewer than 10 states to provide employment protections for family caregivers. “Being a caregiver is one of the most important roles a person can take on, and in Illinois, we’re making sure no one is penalized for stepping up for their loved ones,” said Governor JB Pritzker . “With this law, we’re strengthening protections for workers and ensuring caregivers can balance their responsibilities at work and at home.” “Workplace policies should reflect the realities of caregiving and the responsibilities today’s families face,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton . “This law not only provides protections but also recognizes the complex lives of working people and helps create more supportive and compassionate workplaces.”

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Madison County Sheriff's Office recently announced the addition of Jonathon Zaragoza to its Jail Division. Zaragoza has commenced his Jail Division Field Training and is scheduled to attend the Southwestern Illinois College Corrections Academy in January. Sheriff's officials expressed pride in welcoming Zaragoza, emphasizing the importance of ongoing training and education for personnel in law enforcement. The Corrections Academy will provide Zaragoza with the essential skills and knowledge required for his role within the Jail Division. Zaragoza is shown above with Madison County Sheriff Jeff Connor and Chief Deputy Marcos Pulido. The integration of new staff members is part of the Sheriff's Office's ongoing efforts to enhance operational effectiveness and maintain safety within the community.

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O'FALLON — A memorial plaque honoring O'Fallon City Marshal Benjamin B. (BB) Schmitt was unveiled Thursday evening, Dec. 19, 2024, at the Public Safety Building, marking a significant recognition of the officer who was killed in the line of duty on March 21, 1916. The event, organized by the O'Fallon Historic Preservation Commission, aimed to provide a local tribute to Schmitt, who has been commemorated at the National and State Law Enforcement Memorials but lacked a dedicated site in O'Fallon. The ceremony featured a flag folding and presentation by the O'Fallon Police Honor Guard to Schmitt's family. More than 25 descendants of the late marshal were in attendance, including five of his grandchildren: Jerome Lehman, Jim Schmitt, Lawrence Schmitt, Nancy Karrigan, and Lucy Adcock. Jim Schmitt, who owns Wood Bakery, expressed the family's gratitude for the recognition. The unveiling was performed by Hank Schmitt, BB Schmitt's great-great-grandson, who honored his ancestor by wearing

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RIVERBEND - There’s still time to enter your home or business in our Holiday Lights Contest! RiverBender.com , Raging Rivers WaterPark and Tropical Sno/Lotus Energy have come together to sponsor a Holiday Lights Contest throughout the Riverbend region. Post pictures of your favorite holiday lights display in the comments of our Facebook post for the chance to win. The grand prize is $250 cash, season passes to Raging Rivers for a family of four, and free Tropical Sno or Lotus Energy Drinks for a year (restrictions apply). “We want to see more entries so we can spread holiday cheer and celebrate the hard work of our neighbors,” said RiverBender.com owner John Hentrich. “Voting is open, so everyone is encouraged to join the fun and choose a winner.” Second and third place winners will receive day passes to Raging Rivers for a family of four and free Tropical Sno or Lotus Energy Drinks for a year, with some restrictions. Homes an

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As the days grow shorter and the nights become chillier, winter presents the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and enjoy a cozy dinner party. The ambiance of warm lights, the aroma of delicious food, and the warmth of friendship make for an unforgettable experience. However, hosting a winter dinner party involves careful planning and attention to detail. This article will guide you through the essential elements to ensure your gathering is both enjoyable and memorable. Setting the Scene Choosing the Right Space The first step in hosting a winter dinner party is selecting the right venue. If you have a spacious dining area, that can be an ideal choice. Alternatively, consider the inviting warmth of a living room with a fireplace, which can create a snug atmosphere. Think about accommodating your guests comfortably, ensuring there are enough seats and space for mingling. Lighting for Ambiance Lighting is critical in setting the mood for your winter dinner party. Opt for

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December 27th is a date that has witnessed a variety of significant events throughout history, spanning politics, culture, science, and social movements. Moving back in time, on December 27, 1831, the HMS Beagle set sail on its famous voyage, which would ultimately lead to Charles Darwin's groundbreaking research on evolution. This voyage, which lasted almost five years, allowed Darwin to explore various ecosystems and gather data that would influence his theories on natural selection and species adaptation. The findings from this expedition culminated in his seminal work, 'On the Origin of Species,' published in 1859. This event not only changed the landscape of biological sciences but also had profound implications for philosophy, religion, and society as a whole. Another noteworthy event occurred in 1904 when the famous playwright J.M. Barrie’s play 'Peter Pan' premiered in London. This play has since become a timeless classic, enchanting audiences with its tale of adventure

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As the winter months approach, homeowners are reminded that the cold weather can bring unique challenges to maintaining a safe and comfortable home. While many may think of winter as a time to relax indoors, it's also an opportune season to tackle critical maintenance projects that can prevent costly repairs later. This article will outline several essential tasks to consider during the winter months, providing practical advice and examples to ensure your home remains in excellent condition. Inspect and Insulate Windows and Doors One of the most effective ways to combat the chill of winter is to ensure your windows and doors are properly insulated. Drafty windows and doors can lead to significant heat loss, making your heating system work overtime and increasing your energy bills. What to Do Check for drafts : On windy days, hold a candle or a stick of incense near the edges of your windows and doors. If the flame flickers or the smoke moves, you’ve identified a draft.

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COLLINSVILLE — The City of Collinsville's Water Department issued an updated boil order on Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024, for residents. The updated boil order is as follows: "The City of Collinsville has issued a boil order for specific customers due to a water main repair. The order affects residents on St. Louis Road, including addresses 242, 247, 248, 263, 265, 300, 401, 405, 406, 411, and 500. "Effective immediately and lasting until further notice, the boil order advises residents to bring water intended for drinking or cooking to a full rolling boil for at least five minutes before use. Additionally, residents are instructed to turn off their ice makers and discard any ice produced during this time. "For any questions regarding the boil order, residents can contact Troy Turner, Director of Public Works, at 618-346-5211 or Michael Crawford, Chief Operator, at 618-346-5219 ext. 3." This notice was dated December 26, 2024.

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ALTON - Food is Love , a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to feeding and empowering communities, is thrilled to announce its Monthly Block Party for Good this Friday, Dec. 27, 2024 , from 2:30 PM to 4:30 p.m. in Alton. This heartwarming community event will feature free groceries and free food truck meals , ensuring no one leaves hungry. The Block Party for Good is part of Food is Love’s mission to educate, empower, and restore lives through food. With the support of community partners, local volunteers, and generous donors, this monthly event brings neighbors together to celebrate community and share in the abundance of good food and good company. “Our Block Party for Good is more than just a food distribution event — it’s a gathering of love, support, and connection,” said John Michel, President of Food is Love. “We want to ensure everyone in our community has access to nutritious food while enjoying the warmth and joy of fellowship.”

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EDWARDSVILLE - Jarius Powers, a senior forward for the Alton girls basketball team, recently signed a letter of intent to attend the University of Illinois at Chicago. She is averaging 13.9 points per game and 6.7 rebounds per game. She has been a sensational player in her career for the Redbirds. Jarius is an Auto Butler Female Athlete of the Month for the Redbirds, who are off to another blazing start at 10-1. The 6-foot-1 player has shown leadership qualities and provided strong efforts for the Redbirds. Powers is always appreciative of her teammates. "Our team, we work really well together; once we know what we can do, that's what we do best," she said. "We use each other, and we score off of each other." Powers is feeling very confident about good things coming ahead for the Redbirds as the season moves along and also is anticipating the return of star Kiyoko Proctor, who has been out with an injury. An upgraded schedule, which includes many top teams in both the St. Loui

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EDWARDSVILLE — Sophomore setter Annika Jenkins is optimistic about the Metro East Lutheran High's girls' volleyball program future. Jenkins, who is one of five new players in the Knights' starting lineup this past season, believes that the influx of talent from the freshman class and other returnees will contribute to a successful campaign in 2025. "We have a lot of new talent coming in in the freshman class, and throughout all the grades," Jenkins said. "We will just need to learn how to work together well, and I think we'll have a really strong team. It is a very big part of volleyball." Recognized as a BJ's Printables Female Athlete of the Month for the Knights, Jenkins views her role as not just a setter but also as a leader on the court. She emphasizes the importance of supporting her teammates and making precise plays to set up the hitters for success. "I'm the setter, so I think I have the role of leadership to control the court, and what's going on, and when to get

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EDWARDSVILLE — EXO Lounge, a multifaceted establishment in Edwardsville, is set to host NYE: The Pre-Party from noon to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024. Owner Gina Gamblin and her staff aim to provide a unique social experience that allows guests to celebrate the upcoming year early. Located at 2 157 Center, EXO Lounge combines a nail bar, med spa, and lounge, offering a diverse range of services, including manicures, pedicures, and facials. The venue also features an array of food and drink options prepared by Michelin-star chef Gianni Colucci, who relocated from Switzerland to lead the kitchen. “We just want to promote a social time with your family and friends and provide that special unique experience that you can’t have at any other spot,” Gamblin said. She described the atmosphere at EXO as a "one-of-a-kind experience in the region," likening it to a "mini-vacation" for visitors. The NYE: The Pre-Party event will include drink specials, a DJ, and

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ALTON — Students and faculty at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Alton celebrated the culmination of their semester-long commitment to community service on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024, with a Faith Family Party and Day of Giving. St. Mary's Catholic Principal Mary Rivera announced that the day began with a presentation of a $500 check to Officer Averbeck and the Alton Police Department's K-9 Unit in honor of fallen K-9 Officer Odin. Rivera emphasized the importance of teaching students about their responsibilities in living their faith through acts of kindness and service to others. The event also included the delivery of care packages to homebound parishioners, an experience Rivera described as "priceless and life-changing" for both students and staff. "The smiles on their faces were truly one of the most humbling experiences I have been part of," Rivera said. The initiative, which involved mixing grade levels K-8 and led by middle schoolers, began at the start of the school

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CHICAGO – Illinois Lottery players have another shot at a mind-boggling, life-changing windfall tomorrow night. The Mega Millions jackpot is now a staggering $1.15 billion for the next drawing on Friday night. If won, it would be the fifth-largest Mega Millions jackpot and the ninth-largest lottery jackpot won in U.S. history. The Mega Millions roll began on September 13, 2024, and in that time nearly 960,000 winning Mega Millions tickets have been sold, and over $6.5 million in prizes have been won by Illinois Lottery players. For those looking for ways to increase their chances of winning the $1.15 billion Mega Millions jackpot for Friday night’s drawing, the Illinois Lottery reveals its top 10 ‘winningest’ Mega Millions retailers in the State. These stores have sold the most winning Mega Millions tickets in 2024.

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ALTON - The Alton Police Department welcomed its newest member, Officer Luke Atkinson, during a recent swearing-in ceremony. Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford administered the Oath of Office, marking Atkinson's official entry into the force. Atkinson, who is set to attend the Police Academy in early January 2025, has begun his training under the guidance of Training Sergeant Manny Espinoza. The department expressed confidence in Atkinson’s ability to represent the Alton Police Department with professionalism and pride as he prepares for his upcoming training. The hiring of Officer Atkinson comes as part of the department's ongoing efforts to strengthen its team and enhance community safety. The department encourages the community to welcome Atkinson and support him as he embarks on this new chapter in his law enforcement career.

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WEST ALTON, MO. - Two individuals sustained serious injuries in a rollover crash late Monday night in West Alton, Missouri. The incident occurred at approximately 11:40 p.m. on December 23, 2024, in the southbound lanes of Highway 67, about a half-mile north of Highway 94. One of those injured in the crash was a 16-year-old female from Godfrey. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the driver of a 1997 Lincoln MK8 lost control of the vehicle, which exited the roadway to the left, collided with the tree line, and subsequently overturned. Both occupants of the vehicle were ejected during the crash and were airlifted to a local hospital for treatment. The names of the victims have not been disclosed by Missouri State Highway Patrol.

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ALTON — Duke Bakery in the Middletown Historic District again commemorated the holiday season with a special event on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2024, featuring Santa Claus and his reindeer. The festivities were scheduled for Christmas Eve from 10 a.m. to noon, and the bakery encouraged families to capture the moment with photographs. Amy Hollis, one of the bakery's owners, described the event as a beloved tradition that has grown in popularity over the years. "It has become a tradition here and grown every year," she said. "We had kids showing up, Christmas mamas, a lot of dogs — it really has become a sight to see." Hollis emphasized the bakery's commitment to the community, stating, "This is something we feel we can give back to the community that supports us all year. It shows our appreciation." The bakery was fully stocked for last-minute holiday needs, offering a variety of baked goods including rolls, pies, cakes, decorated cookies, and breakfast items for Christmas

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GODFREY - On Christmas Day, emergency responders from the Godfrey Fire District celebrated a remarkable moment as they assisted in the delivery of a baby, marking a highlight in their challenging work. The incident occurred while Assistant Chief Shawn Bloemker and the team were on duty, bringing joy to a day typically filled with family gatherings and holiday cheer. At approximately 11:22 a.m., on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2024, Bloemker, along with Firefighter/EMT-B Aaron Blackford, Captain/EMT-B Chris Stratton, and Firefighter/EMT-B Payne Hubbs, responded to a call regarding a patient in labor. Initially, the team believed the patient would need to be transported to the hospital without delivering the baby, as there was no crowning observed. However, as they arrived and prepared to move her, contractions intensified, and the baby was delivered on-site. "It was an amazing day for us, a real highlight for everybody on shift," Bloemker said. "Christmas meant a little bit more this year."

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