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EDWARDSVILLE — Carlyn Underwood, a first-grade teacher at Midway Elementary School, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $300 for a new classroom rug. After 12 years of teaching, Underwood said the current rug, which serves as a central gathering spot for stories, lessons, and play, has become stained and frayed from extensive use. With school budgets stretched thin, Underwood is seeking community support to provide her students with a fresh and comfortable space during whole group time and free choice activities. “My old one has been well-loved but is now stained and a little worse for wear,” Underwood said in her online fundraiser. “It would be amazing if I could get a new rug for my students to sit on.” The fundraiser is intended to create a welcoming environment that enhances the classroom experience. Underwood expressed gratitude in advance for any donations received, emphasizing that any amount would be appreciated. Click here for the

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SPRINGFIELD — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) and Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), co-chairs of the Biofuels Caucus, announced the introduction of the bipartisan Ethanol for America Act. This legislation would require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to finalize rulemaking to make the E15 fuel label clearer and more consumer-oriented. It would also confirm the compatibility of E15 with existing underground fuel storage and dispensing equipment, ensuring business owners are not required to make costly and unnecessary infrastructure changes. Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. "I’ve long been a strong advocate for year-round E15, having seen firsthand the benefits it brings to consumers at the pump and to the farmers across Central and Southern Illinois," said Congresswoman Budzinski. "We should be doing everything we can to expand access, not create barriers, which is why I’m

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JERSEYVILLE — After some solid law enforcement work by Jersey County Sheriff's Sgt. Chris Jones and Deputy Justin Decker with a K9, a suspect was apprehended on Krause Drive in Jerseyville, Clarence F. Smith, after illegal drugs were discovered in his vehicle. On July 5, 2025, after a traffic stop of Smith's vehicle, Jersey Deputy Decker deployed his K9, Jax, to establish probable cause for a vehicle search. Jersey County Sheriff Nick Manns said during the search, officers found approximately one ounce of suspected crystal methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Smith was arrested at the scene, and his vehicle was towed. Sheriff Manns announced that on July 22, 2025, Jersey County State’s Attorney Ben Goetten charged Smith with Possession of Methamphetamine, a Class 1 felony. If convicted, Smith faces a prison sentence ranging from four to 15 years. Smith is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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ALTON – For the third consecutive year, OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability. Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so brain cells die. Early stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery times. Get With The Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide,

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BELLEVILLE - Caritas Family Solutions raised $129,875 during its 24-hour Caritas Day campaign, surpassing its initial $100,000 goal. Proceeds will benefit the children, families, seniors, and adults with disabilities that the nonprofit serves across Southern Illinois. Celebrating Caritas’ 78th anniversary, the fundraiser took place from July 31 to August 1, with supporters matching $4 for every $1 donated. “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who made this year’s Caritas Day a success,” said Gary Huelsmann, CEO of Caritas Family Solutions. “These funds will directly support the more than 5,200 children, families, seniors, and adults with disabilities we serve. From our generous donors and matching partners to our dedicated staff, volunteers, and sponsors, we couldn’t have done it without them. As we mark 78 years of service, Caritas Day demonstrates the incredible impact we can make together as a community.” Caritas Board Secretar

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Imagine this: the global tourism industry accounts for nearly 8% of the world’s carbon emissions, rivaling the pollution output of entire countries. Among these emissions, summer travel — with its surge in flights, road trips, and resort stays — plays a significant role in accelerating climate change. While vacations offer much-needed rest and cultural enrichment, their environmental footprint demands attention and action. The Carbon Footprint of Summer Travel Travel is inherently energy-intensive, and summer trips often involve activities that amplify environmental harm. Air travel, in particular, is a major culprit. A single round-trip transatlantic flight can generate over 1.6 metric tons of CO2 per passenger, exceeding the average annual carbon footprint of many individuals in developing nations. Moreover, the increase in car journeys during summer holidays contributes to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Beyond transportation, accommodations and leisur

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Did you know that nearly 30-40% of all food produced globally is wasted? Among the most perishable items are fresh fruits and vegetables, which often spoil before they can be fully enjoyed. For those who relish the vibrant colors and bold flavors of summer produce, mastering preservation techniques not only extends enjoyment but also contributes to reducing food waste and saving money. Here are top tips to help you make the most of your summer harvest, whether from your garden, farmer’s market, or grocery store. Understanding the Value of Preservation Preserving summer produce is more than just a convenience; it’s a way to capture the peak freshness and nutritional benefits of fruits and vegetables. Many summer vegetables and fruits are at their prime during a limited window, and without proper storage or preservation, their quality diminishes rapidly. For example, tomatoes, berries, and zucchini, staples of summer menus, can lose flavor, texture, and nutrients within

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Imagine transforming your backyard into a magical cinema under the stars—a place where family members of all ages gather to share laughter, stories, and unforgettable moments. Backyard movie nights have surged in popularity, not only as a cost-effective entertainment option but also as a powerful way to strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories. According to a 2023 survey by the National Recreation and Park Association, 62% of families who engage in regular outdoor activities report higher levels of family satisfaction and communication. Hosting a backyard movie night can be a simple yet impactful way to tap into these benefits. Setting the Scene: Choosing the Right Equipment The foundation of any successful backyard movie night is the appropriate equipment. Selecting the right projector is crucial. While high-end models offer 4K resolution and advanced color settings, many affordable projectors on the market today provide excellent picture quality suitable for outdoor

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August 11 stands out as a date marked by a tapestry of significant historical events across the globe, spanning politics, science, culture, and more. In the cultural sphere, August 11, 1965 witnessed the debut of the iconic British rock band, The Rolling Stones, on the American television show “The Ed Sullivan Show.” Their performance not only introduced the band to a wider U.S. audience but also played a key role in the British Invasion, which transformed popular music and youth culture in the 1960s. The Rolling Stones' influence on rock music remains profound, making this appearance a landmark in music history. Turning to political milestones, on August 11, 1984, the United States launched the first untethered spacewalk using the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) during the Space Shuttle Challenger mission. Astronauts Bruce McCandless and Robert Stewart ventured into space without being connected to the shuttle, a groundbreaking demonstration of human mobility beyond the

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EDWARDSVILLE — An 86-year-old man was killed early Monday morning, Aug. 11, 2025, after being struck by a vehicle in the 200 block of East Union Street, the Edwardsville Police Department said. The crash occurred at approximately 4 a.m. on August 11, 2025. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities, police said. Because of the severity of the incident, the Edwardsville Police Department requested assistance from the Metro East Crash Assistance Team to conduct a full reconstruction of the scene. The identity of the deceased has not been released pending family notification. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the crash to contact Detective Sergeant Matt Evers at 618-656-2131. The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details are available at this time.

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Today’s high will reach 88 degrees with a low of 70. The day will be mostly partly sunny and humid, but keep an eye out for widely separated thunderstorms throughout the afternoon. Winds will be light from the south, at about 7 mph with gusts up to 15 mph. The humidity will be high, making it feel hotter, with the temperature feeling as warm as 97 degrees at times. Allergy sufferers should note moderate ragweed levels and low mold, grass, and tree pollen. The UV index is very high, so sun protection is a must if you’re outdoors. Tonight will be partly cloudy and humid with temperatures dipping to around 70 degrees. Tomorrow looks similar with a high near 89 degrees and a low around 68. Expect mostly cloudy skies with a chance of thunderstorms again, especially in the afternoon and evening. It will remain humid, so consider staying hydrated and cool, and watch for lightning if you plan to be outside. For detailed updates, visit https://riverbender.com/weather .

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SPRINGFIELD – Today, the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) is pleased to announce the passage of Senate Bill 1491, a new law that will enhance crisis and emergency response capabilities across the state through the integration of certified therapy dog teams. Senate Bill 1491 was recently signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker on Friday, August 1, 2025. Effective January 1, 2026, Senate Bill 1491 requires ILETSB to develop a comprehensive course and certification program for law enforcement officers who will work with therapy dogs in crisis and emergency response situations. This initiative aims to ensure that trained therapy dog teams are available to provide comfort and support during critical incidents, benefiting both individuals in crisis and responding officers. This program will allow for a mutual aid network of therapy dog teams to be dispersed throughout the state when they are needed the most. “This is a significant moment for communities

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August 9 and 10 hold a remarkable place in global history, marked by events that have shaped societies, inspired movements, and transformed the world in profound ways. One of the most impactful events on August 9 happened in 1974 when Gerald Ford was sworn in as the 38th President of the United States. This moment came in the wake of the Watergate scandal, a political crisis that had shaken the foundations of American democracy. Ford’s ascent to the presidency was historic not only because he became the first unelected president, but also because he immediately faced the challenge of restoring public trust in government. His controversial decision to pardon Richard Nixon remains a topic of debate among historians and citizens alike. Going back in time, August 9, 1945, marks a critical day in world history during the final months of World War II. On this day, the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan, just three days after the bombing of Hiroshima. This devastating

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TROY — Downtown Troy was alive with music and energy on Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, as the community gathered for the third First Friday of the season. “This event has done exactly what we had hoped—brought people to downtown Troy,” said Dawn Mushill, President/CEO of the Troy/Maryville/St. Jacob/Marine Chamber of Commerce. “Our downtown businesses have been grateful for the new exposure.” Fans of Lanny & Julie began lining up near the stage even before setup was complete. Throughout the evening, visitors enjoyed a variety of food trucks, vendors, and open doors from many local businesses eager to welcome the crowd. The Triad Hockey Club provided a safe crossing at Market and Main for those visiting the downtown businesses. The season finale of First Friday will take place on Friday, September 5, at the corner of Main and Market in downtown Troy. The Dude Abides Duo will take the stage from 5–8 p.m., accompanied by food trucks and vendors. Guests

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CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced that applications for Round 3 of the Cannabis Social Equity Loan Program will open August 11th. This round of funding includes $40 million, which will be available through Direct Forgivable Loans (DFL) fully financed by the State. Loans will be available to qualified, licensed social equity craft growers, infusers, transporters, and adult-use dispensing organizations. “Illinois is proud to have the most diverse cannabis industry in the nation as the state continues to support the industry,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We’ve made historic progress fostering social equity in the marketplace and ensuring investment in communities across the state over the past five years. This new round of funding is another meaningful step toward uplifting social equity businesses in the cannabis industry.” “Under the Pritzker-Stratton administration,

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ALTON - On a recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust , Lindsey, a family coach with Amare, shared how God has impacted her life. Amare is a Wood River-based nonprofit that helps people who are struggling with substance use disorders. The organization offers recovery support and resources. As a family coach, Lindsey works with families to help them navigate a loved one’s journey. “We meet people where they are. That’s what we always say,” she explained. “I love being a family coach because I love being able to help family members understand the giant mountain that people have to face when they are approaching recovery or considering, because it is so hard and it takes so much strength.” Lindsey emphasized that you do not have to be clean/sober to receive Amare’s help, which is completely free. The organization connects with people no matter where they’re at in their journey. They can help

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GALATIA – Illinois State Police (ISP) officials investigated a traffic crash that occurred on IL-34 one mile west of Harco Road in Saline County involving an ISP trooper. The trooper was on scene of a previous, fatal traffic crash when their squad car was struck by a driver who failed to move over. On August 8, 2025, at approximately 5:08 a.m., two ISP troopers were parked on IL-34 west of Harco Road with emergency lights activated blocking westbound traffic to secure a crash scene. An individual driving a Ford Escape westbound struck the rear of one of the squad cars. Both troopers were outside of their squad cars at the time of the crash. The driver of the Ford Escape, 66-year-old Sandra S. Kahl of Thompsonville, IL, and both troopers were uninjured. Kahl was cited for Move Over Law violations and Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid an Accident. In 2025, ISP has already suffered eight Move Over Law-related crashes. In 2024, ISP suffered 27 Move Over Law-related crashes with 1

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SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Fair is excited to collaborate with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to promote early childhood literacy through the gift of books. This inspiring book gifting program mails free, high-quality, and age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five, regardless of the family's income. To celebrate this partnership, families are invited to enjoy a daily story time session at 2 p.m. inside the Sensory Station (Emmerson Building) during the Illinois State Fair. It’s the perfect mid-day pause in the air-conditioning, giving an opportunity for kids to unwind, listen, and imagine, before heading back out to explore all the excitement the fair has to offer. “The Illinois State Fair theme is Adventure Awaits, and there is no limit to the adventures available to kids through good books,” said Rebecca Clark, Illinois State Fair Manager. “By bringing this partnership to the fairgrounds, we’re opening the door for

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, with a bipartisan coalition of 50 attorneys general, today launched Operation Robocall Roundup, an effort by the multistate Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force to crack down on robocalls across the country. As part of their efforts, Raoul and the coalition are sending warning letters to 37 voice providers demanding immediate action to stop illegal robocalls being routed through their networks. “Today’s announcement is the latest step taken in our task force’s efforts to address intrusive and illegal robocalls that plague Illinoisans,” Raoul said. “I will continue to work closely with my fellow attorneys general and the FCC to protect Illinois consumers and ensure all telecom companies play by the rules.” The telecom providers being sent warning letters have failed to comply with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules on responding to government traceback requests. They also have failed to register

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SPRINGFIELD - Following another strong month in fund balances, Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza is ordering the pre-payment of state pension payments in August. Total payments in August will be $1.336 billion to the five retirement systems which include $428 million in pre-payments, or nearly 50% more than the usual amount. This comes after the Comptroller’s Office pre-paid 100% more in pre-payments in July. These early payments allow the state’s five pension systems to keep more money in their investment portfolios and earn more in returns. Last month’s prepayment is estimated to produce an extra $20 million for retiree pension funds, and this month’s 50% pre-payment is expected to generate another $5 million. Comptroller Mendoza first began using this cash management tool in July 2024, under new rules she sought to better manage state finances. “Not only does this boost investment opportunities for the state’s retirement systems, these pre-payments

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