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MARION – Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs today returned a lost Purple Heart medal to the grand-niece of a World War II veteran who earned it while fighting the Germans in Italy. Frerichs reunited Army Private Stephen J. Grabowski’s military medals with grand-niece Chrystal Cantrell during a ceremony at VFW Post 1301 in Marion. It is the 16th lost medal Frerichs has returned as part of Operation Purple Heart , an unprecedented mission to reunite lost medals with the rightful owners. The iconic military honor is given to individuals wounded or killed during military combat. “Private Grabowski sacrificed a great deal to stop an evil dictator and ensure a free world,” Frerichs said. “It is never too late to honor the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation.” On April 15, 1945, during the closing days of active fighting in Europe, Grabowski and thousands of others participated in Operation Grapeshot, the final Allied attack during the Italian Campaign.

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CHICAGO – Today, Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1181 into law, clarifying that the protections in the Citizen Participation Act apply to the freedom of the press to opine, report, or investigate matters of public concern. The Citizen Participation Act protects against “strategic lawsuits against public participation” (SLAPPs), and with this new amendment, news media will be explicitly added as a protected entity. In Illinois, journalists facing defamation lawsuits and similar litigation for reporting on public matters will be protected under the same legislation. “As Trump and his friends continue their frivolous and targeted attacks on members of the free press, we are working to protect and empower Illinois journalists as they keep the general public informed,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This law will strengthen our anti-SLAPP legislation in Illinois—ensuring press don’t have to fear retaliation for reporting the truth and

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ALTON — The Alton Food Truck Fest drew a lively crowd to the Alton Amphitheater on Saturday, August 23, 2025, as attendees enjoyed a variety of food options and live music along the riverfront. The 2025 festival featured 16 food trucks, including Cajun Seduction, The Spud Shack, Jaaise Grubb, Go Gyro Go, Tuk Tuk Thai, Mr. Noodle, G Burrito, Takozz, Beast Craft, Doughboys, Grace Chicken + Fish, Jive Turkey, The Sweet Side, Solar Smoothie, and Scoops N More. Festivalgoers sampled diverse cuisine while taking in the performance by Almost Famous, a five-piece cover band known for energetic renditions of hits from artists such as The Beatles, Journey, Queen, Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder. Dan Herkert of the Alton Amphitheater Commission expressed satisfaction with the event’s turnout and atmosphere. “The Amphitheater Commission is delighted to see so many people enjoying a positive experience and seeing what our community has to offer,” Herkert said.

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ALTON – The latest Riverbend resident charged with sharing child pornography via Kik is an Alton man additionally accused of having a “graphic conversation” with a minor via Snapchat. Taylor A. Sandberg, 26, of Alton, was charged on Aug. 20, 2025 with seven Class X felony counts of child pornography. On April 12, 2025, Sandberg allegedly disseminated four video files via the Kik app, followed by three more videos shared via Kik on April 21, 2025. Each of the videos reportedly depicted prepubescent male children engaged in various sex acts. According to the state’s petition to deny Sandberg’s pretrial release from custody, a cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children lead to an investigation by the Alton Police Department yielding not only the child pornography, but “a graphic conversation” over Snapchat from November of 2024 between Sandberg and an alleged 13-year-old. A second cybertip linked to the same

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ALTON — Two vehicles collided at the intersection of Alton Square Drive and Homer Adams Parkway at 4:02 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, prompting immediate response from the Alton Police Department and Alton Fire Department. Officials reported that one person received treatment at the scene but declined transportation to a hospital. Another individual was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries. The crash resulted in significant damage to both vehicles, causing some traffic disruption during the cleanup process. Authorities have not released additional information regarding the cause of the accident. (Photos by Ryan Schlueter).

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WOOD RIVER — People gathered along the streets of Wood River on Saturday morning to celebrate the annual Wood River Labor Day Parade, which began at 10 a.m. at the Emerick Sports Complex. The parade proceeded south along 6th Street, turned west on Ferguson Avenue, and concluded at North Haller. Representatives from each local labor union participated in the event, distributing candy to parade watchers as they walked. The parade also featured a backhoe and other equipment, with the Wood River Police Department and Fire Department leading the procession. Robert Pollard, Wood River Township Chairman, served as this year’s parade marshal. Following the parade, the celebration continued at Gordon Moore Park in Alton, Illinois, where the James Stanley Charity Softball Tournament was scheduled to conclude. Union members and their families were invited to enjoy food and refreshments at the park.

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SUMMERFIELD — The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that lane closures on Summerfield Road between Old U.S. Highway 50 and West Casad Street in St. Clair County are scheduled to begin Monday, Aug. 25, weather permitting. Flaggers will maintain two-way traffic during the work. The lane closures are necessary for pavement rehabilitation operations and are expected to be completed by early September. 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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CHAMPAIGN — Building on efforts to bolster reproductive health in Illinois, Governor JB Pritzker signed two bills to protect reproductive rights by safeguarding medical professionals and making contraception and the abortion pill more available across the state. Gov. Pritzker signed an expanded state shield law ( HB3637 ) protecting health care providers from discipline for providing health care services that are lawful in Illinois, and HB3709 which requires public colleges and universities to offer contraception and medication abortion if they have an on-campus pharmacy or student health center. While Trump’s anti-choice agenda has fueled unprecedented attacks on reproductive freedom in states across the nation, Illinois continues to enshrine women’s access to critical care into state law. “Six years ago, I made a promise to the women of this state: As governor, I will ensure that your medical decisions will be your own. And we elected a General Assembly

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EDWARDSVILLE – The largest student cohort to date of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Summer Success Program (SSP) took one more step toward degree completion when they celebrated the ending of their summertime academics. “You have so much to be proud of and to be in anticipation of, because you all did so well in the program,” said SSP Director Kelly Atkins, EdD. Atkins encouraged the 84 students who completed the five-week program. The 2025 Summer Success Closing Ceremony was held Friday, Aug. 8 in the Legacy Room of SIUE’s Morris University Center. SIUE Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD, was among the SSP faculty, staff and supporters who came out to wish the students well. “We were excited to praise our incoming college first-year students who elected to pursue an early start to their college careers,” said Letrice “Lee” Young, EdD, SSP coordinator. Throughout the program, participants lived in University

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DU QUOIN – Fairgoers at the 2025 Du Quoin State Fair will find no shortage of free entertainment throughout the grounds. With free admission and a wide variety of performances and attractions available at no cost, families can enjoy a full day of fun without worrying about their wallets. “We recognize that families may be experiencing tough times financially, and entertainment dollars are stretched thin,” said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture . “Expanding free entertainment options keeps the fair affordable, allowing families to make memories that last a lifetime.” Inside the free entertainment tent, located on the north side of Midway, music acts for all ages entertain fairgoers looking to get out of the heat and off their feet. This tent offers plenty of room for little ones to move around, and plenty of seating to enjoy your favorite fair food. Below are some highlights of free fair. Visit our website to find

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ALTON – Four people from the Riverbend region and beyond face felony charges for stolen vehicle possession in separate cases out of Madison County. The following individuals have been charged with offenses related to motor vehicles, a Class 2 felony: Paul R. Owens, 38, of Alton Brett R. Lowder, 39, of East Alton Jonathan A Graves, 33, of Wilsonville, Ill. (two counts) Maureen A. Myers, 56, of Holly, Mich. Owens was charged with knowingly possessing a stolen 2014 Jeep Patriot bearing an Illinois registration number on June 29, 2025. Lowder is accused of possessing a 2001 Suzuki GS500 motorcycle, also with an Illinois registration number, which he knew to be stolen on July 17, 2025. Graves allegedly possessed two knowingly stolen motorcycles on July 17, 2025, a 2020 Kawasaki and 2001 Suzuki GS500, both bearing Illinois registration numbers. He was additionally accused of burglarizing a Cottage Hills residence with the intent of committing a theft. Myers was reportedly

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DU QUION – Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined the Department of Public Health, Department of Healthcare and Family Services, and healthcare leaders from southern Illinois to discuss the impacts of Trump’s budget cuts on healthcare across rural areas of the state. The budget bill from Trump and congressional Republicans slashes Medicaid coverage for working families and endangers the stability of hospitals and care providers; rural hospitals across the nation are projected to lose $155 billion in funding as a result of the bill. “Rural hospitals are a critical lifeline for communities across Illinois. Not only are they one of the only providers of life-saving medical care for miles, they are often the backbone of rural economies,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans making devastating cuts to Medicaid, many of these rural healthcare providers will be at risk of closure, causing patients to lose care and staff to los

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EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County names Jessica Dudley as its new Chief County Assessment Officer. “Jessica brings a strong record of service and professionalism to this position,” Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser said. “Her background as Jarvis Township Assessor and her certification as a Certified Illinois Assessing Officer give her the experience and credibility needed to lead the office.” Dudley oversees the county’s property assessment system, which provides the foundation for funding local schools and government services. She works with township assessors to maintain accurate property values, coordinates with the Board of Review during the appeals process, and administers exemptions for seniors, veterans and homeowners. Before taking on the countywide role, Dudley served as the Jarvis Township Assessor, a position she’s held since 2014. “She’s committed to serving the residents with fairness, transparency

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ALTON – The Wedge is proud to welcome Jacqueline Reyes as its new Marketing & Communications Specialist. A student at Principia College and a first-generation college attendee, Jacqueline brings with her a strong mix of creativity, digital marketing experience, and a passion for connecting with people. Originally from California, Jacqueline is currently a senior at Principia studying Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and a minor in Art History. She has a growing portfolio of experience, from managing social media campaigns and building websites, to organizing campus events and helping fellow students with career planning. At The Wedge, she’ll be supporting marketing and storytelling efforts, helping to grow The Wedge’s visibility through digital content and media, while assisting with programming and promotion—engaging both current members and the broader Riverbend community. “Jackie has a great mix of curiosity and initiative,”

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HIGHLAND — Gavin Schlarmann, a dedicated emergency medical technician and firefighter with the City of Highland, died in a motorcycle crash on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, the Highland Police and Fire Departments announced on Friday. Schlarmann was known for his commitment to public service, frequently responding to ambulance calls and supporting his colleagues at the firehouse. The Highland Fire Department described Gavin as someone who consistently “stepped up” and “was always the first to step up and the last to leave,” highlighting his courage, compassion, and selflessness. “It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic passing of Gavin Schlarmann,” the department said in a statement. “His kind spirit touched countless lives. Gavin always greeted you with a smile.” The loss has deeply affected his family, friends, and fellow public safety personnel. The Highland Police Department asked the community to keep them in

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GRANTFORK - Madison County Coroner Nicholas P. Novacich has identified a 21-year-old Highland man who died following a motorcycle crash on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025. Gavin L. Schlarmann was operating a 2025 Kawasaki motorcycle northbound on Illinois Route 160 in Grantfork when his motorcycle left the roadway and struck a tree. Schlarmann was transported to St. Joseph Hospital Emergency Room in Highland, where he was pronounced dead at 3:10 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, by the emergency room physician. The preliminary cause of death is blunt head trauma. The coroner's office said routine toxicology samples were collected and will be tested for drugs and alcohol, with results pending. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Illinois State Police Troop 8 and the Madison County Coroner’s Office. A final cause of death will not be issued until all reports are complete. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Meridith Funeral Home in Highland.

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WOOD RIVER — Marquette Catholic’s boys golf team delivered a strong performance Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, at the Madison County Small Schools Golf Championships, held at Belk Park. The Explorers finished with a team score of 324, highlighted by senior Carson Jones’ second-place individual finish among small schools and seventh overall. The tournament took place Aug. 21, 2025, bringing together small school teams from across Madison County. Marquette Catholic’s boys golf squad demonstrated depth, with senior Andrew Belden and sophomore Sam Jun tying for sixth and seventh place individually among small schools, each shooting an 80. Jones led the team with a 75, contributing significantly to the Explorers’ overall team success. Other individual scores included senior Henry Freihoff at 89, junior Chase Pruitt at 91, and junior Hubert Allen at 95. The team’s achievement earned them recognition as Tucker’s Automotive Repair and Tire Male Athletes

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ALTON — Landon Mayer captured the Large School Division title at the Madison County Boys Golf Tournament event at Belk Park in Wood River, finishing with a score of 1 over par, 73. Mayer’s performance showcased his skill among competitors in the region. Mayer managed to post a strong score that set him apart from the rest of the field. “Landon is the most talented player in the conference and has the chance to have a special junior season," Alton's head boys golf coach Dylan Dudley said. "He had the opportunity to watch and learn from Sam (Otwell) last year, which has helped him tremendously.” Landon is an Auto Butler Male Athlete of the Month for the Redbirds. Coach Dudley also highlighted the importance of Mayer’s mental approach to the game, noting that managing emotions is crucial for his continued success. “The key for Landon is to handle the mental side of the game; you can never get too high or too low,” Dudley added. Mayer’s

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O’FALLON – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that the entrance ramp from southbound Illinois 158 to westbound Interstate 64 in St. Clair County will be closed overnight for road construction. The closure will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 26, and the ramp is expected to reopen by 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 27. 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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ALTON - Marquette Catholic High School is once again sponsoring a Mega Raffle fundraiser with a grand prize of $50,000. Every fall, MCHS holds the Mega Raffle to raise money for their students and programs. Tickets cost $50, or you can buy two for $100 and receive a third ticket free. The big drawing will be held during the school’s homecoming block party on Oct. 25, 2025, but early bird winners will take home $1,000 every week starting on Aug. 23, 2025. “It really just benefits Marquette as a whole,” explained Mary Hough, who organizes the raffle. “Really, it’s one of our bigger fundraisers for the year.” The school will celebrate the start of the school year with a kickoff party on Aug. 23, 2025, at Johnson’s Corner following the annual Blue/Gray game. The first early bird winner will be drawn at the party. Early bird drawings will continue on Sept. 5, Sept. 19, Oct. 3, Oct. 17, and Oct. 24. You can purchase tickets online u

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