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SPRINGFIELD – Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) released the following statement following an announcement from the Department of Education that it would begin releasing nearly $5.5 billion in Congressionally-approved funds illegally withheld from states. The restored funding comes after pressure from Budzinski and her House Democratic colleagues. “After we turned up the pressure, I’m glad to see the Trump administration do the right thing and release the education funds they have been illegally withholding from our communities,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “While this announcement is a relief for our school districts – especially as the new school year rapidly approaches – the funding never should have been delayed. Central and Southern Illinoisans deserve a government that keeps its word, and I’ll continue to hold this administration accountable to ensure these critical dollars are delivered to our district.” Earlier

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EAST ST. LOUIS – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that bridge deck patching will take place on eastbound Interstate 64 between 15th Street and 25th Street in St. Clair County beginning, weather permitting, at 9 p.m., Friday, Aug. 1, 2025. During that time, traffic will be reduced to one lane. All lanes are expected to reopen by 6 a.m. Monday, Aug. 4. Motorists should expect delays 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 www.GettingAroundIllinois.com .

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HARDIN — Today, Jennifer Wooldridge, State Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Coordinator and Deputy Director of Operations for the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board, issued the following statement on the life-saving impact of CIT training in law enforcement, as demonstrated recently by Sheriff William Heffington and Chief Deputy Zach Hardin of the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office: "On May 5, 2025, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office was alerted to a severe disturbance near the intersection of Park Street and Main Street in Hardin. Authorities were told an individual intimidated another individual with an axe before fleeing the scene. "Within minutes, at about 3:37 p.m., Chief Deputy Zach Hardin located the individual, parked along Illinois River Road, still armed with a large axe. Sheriff William Heffington arrived to assist in what quickly escalated into a critical and complex situation. As school had just let out, a bus full of childre

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EDWARDSVILLE - During their regular meeting on July 28, 2025, the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education discussed the 2023 Bond and three potential projects that could be completed using the money. Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton explained that there are three Phase 2 projects, and he wanted the Board to discuss these projects and let him know what information they needed to make a decision on which project to move forward with. He said the top priorities are updating certain playgrounds, followed by the gyms in Hamel and Columbus Elementary Schools, and then the Edwardsville High School Media Center. “There seems to be a super need for Hamel. We have asbestos,” said Board member Matt Breihan. “I go back to the Bond promises that were promised, and I realize you can’t tell the future and I realize you can’t tell where rates go and what happens. But the promises were made that we have enough money for all projects that

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JACKSONVILLE, Ill. – Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed another unconstitutional gun restriction into law this week. On Monday, Gov. Pritzker signed the so-called “Safe Gun Storage Act” into law. Senate Bill 8 imposes new mandates requiring gun owners to store firearms in locked containers when in the presence of minors, prohibited persons, or “at-risk” individuals. The bill is riddled with conflicting provisions and creates legal uncertainty for hunters, target shooters, and youth shooting clubs. State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) voted NO on Senate Bill 8, citing serious constitutional concerns for the rights of law-abiding gun owners. “Senate Bill 8 is an overreaching and unconstitutional restriction on the Second Amendment rights of responsible Illinois citizens,” Davidsmeyer said. “This law creates excessive and confusing firearm storage mandates, subjects law-abiding gun owners to stiff civil

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SPRINGFIELD - Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) hosted a roundtable discussion focused on improving mail delivery and protecting postal services across Central and Southern Illinois. She convened local union leaders, postal workers, and other community stakeholders to talk about efforts to improve on-time delivery, protect local postal jobs, oppose privatization, and stop harmful facility consolidations that reduce access in rural and underserved areas. “The Postal Service is a lifeline in rural communities, and lagging delivery rates have meant delayed prescriptions, late bills, missed paychecks, and much more,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “It’s unacceptable and the administration should do better. I was glad to bring together leaders on the frontlines of this issue today to talk about how we can push back against postal privatization, improve speed and service, and protect good-paying union jobs at USPS. The Postal Service should be a public good

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EDWARDSVILLE - During their regular meeting on July 28, 2025, the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education unanimously voted down proposed fixes to the Edwardsville High School track. Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton explained that the original project, which was approved by the Board earlier this year, did not address findings related to construction or design. The contractor has since recommended two design/construction changes to the track. The first change is the addition of a 4-inch conduit and two 2.5-inch conduits for timing equipment and potential later additions, valued at $40,000. The second change is a 4-foot perimeter concrete walk on the exterior of the track, valued at $63,000. “We did not include design or construction contingencies in this project,” Shelton said. “We didn’t know there needed to be. But at the same time, we have for all the other projects, so that’s probably something that we should have

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ALTON - You can enter for the chance to win four VIP tickets to the upcoming Puddle of Mudd concert at the Alton Amphitheater. On Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, enjoy music from the chart-topping rock band on the Alton Riverfront. Puddle of Mudd is known for post-grunge hits like “Blurry,” “She Hates Me” and “Psycho,” and frontman Wes Scantlin promises more “deep cuts” from previous albums at the Alton show. Enter using the form below for the chance to win four VIP tickets. “A Saturday evening on the Alton Riverfront with another multi-platinum-selling band like Puddle of Mudd will be a great night for Alton and the region,” said Dan Herkert, Alton Amphitheater Commission Chair. “It has been a few years since we’ve had an alternative rock and roll show at the Alton Amphitheater, and we’re thrilled to bring this genre back to our riverfront.” Puddle of Mudd was signed by Limp Bizkit’s Fred Durst

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Did you know that nearly 80% of the world’s population lives under light-polluted skies, unable to see the Milky Way with the naked eye? This startling fact underscores just how precious truly dark skies have become. For those who crave the awe of celestial wonders, finding the right stargazing location is essential—especially on clear summer nights when the heavens are at their most vibrant. Understanding What Makes a Great Stargazing Spot Not all stargazing locations are created equal. Several factors contribute to the quality of the view and the overall experience: Darkness: Artificial light from cities and towns significantly diminishes the visibility of stars and planets. The darker the sky, the more celestial bodies are visible. Altitude: Higher elevations often have less atmospheric disturbance and clearer air, improving visibility. Weather: Clear skies with low humidity and minimal cloud cover enhance stargazing conditions. Accessibility: While remote

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EDWARDSVILLE — Pianist Sun Hye Chung, violinist Mu-Chi Hsieh, and cellist Marie Brown, all alumni of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, will present a fundraising piano trio concert on Sunday, August 3, 2025, to support victims of the May 16, 2025, tornado in St. Louis. The concert is scheduled for 3 p.m. at Eden Church of Edwardsville. The musicians will perform a selection of well-known pieces composed and arranged by Franz Schubert, John Lutter, David Foster, and Sun Ahn. The program includes the second movement of Schubert’s Piano Trio No. 2, Op. 100; an arrangement of “Amazing Grace”; and J.S. Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1 Prelude, among others. A freewill offering will be collected during the event, with proceeds directed to the official City of St. Louis Tornado Response Fund. The fundraiser aims to provide assistance to those affected by the recent tornado that caused significant damage in the St. Louis area.

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July 29 has always been a day of remarkable milestones across the globe. Back in 1914, the outbreak of World War I began to unfold rapidly. On July 28 of that year, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, setting off a chain reaction of alliances and conflicts that would engulf much of the world in one of the deadliest wars in human history. This moment underscored the fragility of peace and the complexities of international diplomacy. Fast forward to 1945, the Potsdam Conference was underway, where Allied leaders Harry Truman, Joseph Stalin, and Winston Churchill (later replaced by Clement Attlee) negotiated terms for the end of World War II and the postwar order. The decisions made during this conference had profound implications for the geopolitical landscape, influencing the onset of the Cold War and the division of Europe. In the realm of culture, July 29, 1950, saw the birth of significant artistic movements. For instance, the world witnessed the rise of influential literature

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Extreme heat is taking center stage today with a high reaching 97 degrees and a low around 74. The day will be mostly sunny with some spots seeing a stray morning thunder shower. However, the heat feels much hotter, with temperatures feeling as high as 111 degrees. The humidity sticks around, making it feel even warmer. An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect until 7 p.m. tonight. Stay hydrated, avoid the sun when possible, and check on neighbors, especially those who are vulnerable. Allergy-wise, mold is moderate, ragweed and grass are low, and the UV index is very high, so sunscreen is a must. Looking ahead to tomorrow, expect a high of 93 and a low near 72. The weather will be humid with a couple of afternoon thunderstorms. These storms could be heavy with the potential for flash flooding and damaging wind gusts. Plan accordingly if you have outdoor activities. For more detailed forecasts, visit https://riverbender.com/weather .

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O’FALLON, Ill. — Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) St. Elizabeth’s Hospital ceremonially broke ground on the future location of its new outpatient surgery center and medical office building on Monday, July 28. The hospital’s Certificate of Need (CON) received unanimous approval from the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board (HFSRB) in March 2025 for the addition of this important project on the hospital’s campus. “We are excited to be able to bring much-needed, local health care resources to our community,” shared Chris Klay, President and CEO of HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. “The surgical treatment center addresses the growing need for a more convenient and accessible location for minor outpatient surgeries and procedures that can be done on a same-day basis, with no need for an inpatient stay.” The project is a $50 million investment that illustrates HSHS’ and St. Elizabeth’s ongoing

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JERSEYVILLE – A man from Chesterfield has been released from custody after being charged with firing a weapon during an aggravated assault in Jersey County. Lucas A. Brown, 33, of Chesterfield, Ill., was charged on July 21, 2025 with reckless discharge of a firearm and aggravated assault/discharge firearm, both Class 4 felonies. On July 19, 2025, Brown allegedly discharged a firearm in a reckless manner near the victim’s bedroom window, endangering the victim’s bodily safety and causing them to fear for their life, according to charging documents. A Pretrial Release Order was later filed, granting Brown release from custody pending trial. Under the conditions of his release, Brown has been ordered to have no contact or communication with the victim in this case and cannot leave the State of Illinois without court permission. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Fair, in collaboration with the Illinois State Police, is introducing updated security measures to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests. The following items will not be allowed on the Illinois State Fairgrounds and will be confiscated if found: Firearms (concealed carry is prohibited ) Weapons of any kind (including but not limited to knives, pepper spray, stun guns, brass knuckles, batons, bats) Illegal substances Drones or laser pointers Fireworks or flammable materials Grandstand Security Additional measures are being implemented at the Grandstand to maintain a safe environment for event attendees and entertainers. Metal Detectors & Bag Checks New this year are metal detectors and bag checks at all Grandstand entrances. No backpacks, duffle bags or bags/purses larger than 14"x8" are allowed into the Grandstand. Tickets If you purchased mobile tickets, be sure to download the tickets to your Ticketmaster

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EDWARDSVILLE - Join the Edwardsville Municipal Concert Band for an evening of music on Thursday, July 31, at 7:30 PM at the Cleaon Etzkorn Bandstand in City Park. This week’s concert, Color My World, highlights how composers use musical color to paint vivid scenes—from the shimmering hues of Brian Balmages’ Rippling Watercolors to the dramatic contrasts of Clare Grundman’s The Blue and the Gray. Selections will include Palette by Randall Standridge, The Blues! by Sammy Nestico, Black Canyon of the Gunnison by Frank Erickson, and Alfred Reed’s arrangement of The Unsinkable Molly Brown. The program also features patriotic favorites like Sousa’s The Black Horse Troop and a nostalgic nod to Disney with Heigh Ho from Snow White. The band is honored to welcome Maestro Shane Williams as guest conductor for the evening. Williams is the Director of Instrumental Ensembles at Missouri Baptist University and is currently in his 11th season as conductor of the

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BELLEVILLE — Toastmasters International will recognize Southwestern Illinois College for enhancing employee engagement through continuing support of the Toastmasters program. Southwestern Illinois College sponsors Toast of Belleville in Belleville where its employees meet to develop and strengthen their communication and leadership skills in a supportive setting with their coworkers. The award will be presented by Distinguished Toastmaster Srinivas Saineni, International Director on 9 August 2025 at 11am at Orlando’s Event Center in St. Louis, Mo. RSVP due 7/26 at (www.dist8tm.org) Toastmasters' communication and leadership teaches Southwestern Illinois College employees how to: Conduct effective meetings Practice time management Enhance their listening skills Sharpen their presentation skills Boost team collaboration(U) Guide successful teams Southwestern Illinois College has been exceptionally supportive of Toast of Belleville Toastmasters Club and th

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MADISON COUNTY — A 25-year-old man from Phoenix, Ariz., was killed Thursday night, July 24, 2025, after being struck by a semi tractor-trailer on Interstate 70 in Madison County, authorities said. The accident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on July 24, 2025, on the westbound lanes near the 20.4-mile marker, close to the intersection of Illinois State Route 4 and Interstate 70. Madison County Coroner Nicholas P. Novacich on Monday, July 28, 2025, identified the victim as Amisi M. Wilondja. The Madison County Coroner’s Office was notified at 10:39 p.m. on July 24, 2025, and Investigator Samuel T. Stone responded to the scene, pronouncing Wilondja dead at 11:14 p.m. The driver of the semi stopped at the scene and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The preliminary cause of death was listed as multi-system trauma, the Madison County Coroner said. Routine toxicological testing has been conducted, but results are still pending. The final cause of death will be determined

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ALTON – A man from Alton faces a felony arson charge after setting fire to a home on 6th Street . Joey L. Holoman, 35, of Alton, was charged on July 23, 2025 with a Class 1 felony count of residential arson. On July 7, 2025, Holoman allegedly damaged a residential property in the 1100 block of E. 6th St. by means of fire which was the dwelling place of another individual. According to the state’s petition to deny Holoman’s pretrial release from custody, a cab driver reported seeing a male and female leaving the residence as the fire ignited. “While getting into the cab, the male admitted he lit the fire, but claimed he put it out,” the petition states. “Officers located the female witness, who indicated that defendant had ignited the fire prior to leaving, saying he was upset at his ex-girlfriend. Defendant admitted to setting the fire, saying he lit a candle on a bed in the residence after taking his property.” Alton Fire Chief Jesse

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ALTON – Following the recent implementation of earlier bar closing times and increased police presence in the downtown entertainment district, the Alton Police Department is pleased to report overwhelming support and compliance from both patrons and business owners during the first full weekend of enforcement. From Friday evening, July 25, 2025, through early Sunday morning, July 27, 2025, Alton Police Officers maintained a heightened presence in the downtown area to ensure public safety, discourage disorderly conduct, and support the newly established 1 a.m. closing time for several local establishments. “We were encouraged by the cooperation we saw this weekend,” said Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford. “Patrons complied with the new closing times, left the area promptly, and conducted themselves responsibly. This is exactly the kind of community response we were hoping for.” There were no major incidents throughout the weekend. However, officers will b

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