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JERSEYVILLE/BELLEVILLE - A local Santa recently received a note from a little girl who came to visit him. The note read, “Dear Santa, can I have my dad back?” Santa gave her a hug and promised to pray for her. He wrote her name down in a little red book and prayed for her every night for a week, and then he prays every day for all of the names in that book — the kids who have asked for things Santa can’t deliver. There’s the girl who asked Santa to help her dad get out of prison. There’s a boy who asked for bug spray because his house had a lot of bugs. Though Santa can’t fix everything, he did work with Got Faith? Ministry in Jerseyville to send an exterminator to that boy’s house. Steve Pegram, the founder of Got Faith?, explained that he is Santa’s cousin. He helped RiverBender.com get in touch with Santa ahead of the busy Christmas holidays, and Santa has a message for all the kids and families out there this year

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ALTON - On Giving Tuesday, the Alton Police Department engaged in a community initiative aimed at providing new shoes to local children in need. Officers partnered with the organization All God's Children Shall Have Shoes to shop for the footwear, demonstrating their commitment to supporting families in the Alton area. The collaboration highlights the spirit of generosity that characterizes Giving Tuesday, a day dedicated to charitable giving following the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The Alton Police Department expressed pride in their involvement with the initiative, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community. "We appreciate the support," said organizers from All God's Children Shall Have Shoes, acknowledging the police department's contributions to the shoe program.

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BELLEVILLE - The St. Clair County Sheriff's Office celebrated the graduation of Session #130, welcoming a new officer to its ranks. Officer Cameron Bush completed the corrections training program and is set to contribute to the department. The ceremony recognized the hard work and dedication of the graduates, with a special acknowledgment of Officer Bush’s achievements. “We extend our welcome to Officer Cameron Bush to our team and express our gratitude to his family for their support in allowing him to complete the corrections training program,” the St. Clair County Sheriff's Office stated. Officer Bush's successful completion of the program is seen as a valuable addition to the department, which continues to emphasize the importance of training and community support in law enforcement. The academy remains committed to preparing officers for the challenges they may face in their roles.

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GRANITE CITY - A three-hour standoff in Granite City concluded without incident Thursday morning, Dec. 5, 2024. The situation unfolded near the intersection of 24th Street and Washington Avenue, prompting a response from several officers from the Granite City Police Department. Details regarding the circumstances that led to the standoff have not yet been disclosed. Authorities reported that the situation was resolved peacefully, and no injuries were reported. The Granite City Police Department is expected to release more details as the investigation continues. More to come.

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) is continuing to seek recovery of over $3.8 million in back wages and benefits for over 350 displaced workers after their employers abruptly closed. On October 30th, IDOL, through the Office of the Attorney General, filed three separate federal bankruptcy claims against Outfox Hospitality, LLC; Dom’s Kitchen and Market, LLC (Dom’s); and Foxtrot Market (Foxtrot) seeking back wages and benefits owed to its employees when the businesses failed to provide the required 60-day notice under the Illinois Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN). In April, Dom’s, Outfox, and Foxtrot informed workers the businesses were immediately closing. In response, IDOL notified the three businesses of their obligations to provide sufficient notice of closure under WARN and sought payroll records and other documents. While the businesses had initially indicated the need for additional time to provide the requested

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EDWARDSVILLE – The Edwardsville Police Department is proud to announce the receipt of a Federal Fiscal Year 2025 Sustained Traffic Enforcement Program grant. The grant, funded by federal highway safety funds through the Illinois Department of Transportation, will support enhanced traffic safety enforcement efforts designed to save lives and reduce traffic crashes. “We are grateful for this grant, which allows us to increase our enforcement of impaired driving, seat belt, speeding and other traffic safety laws under the banners of ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,’ ‘Click It or Ticket,’ and ‘Drive High, Get a DUI,’” said Lt. Brandn Whittaker. “Our priority is ensuring the safety of everyone who uses our roadways by holding those who break the law accountable.” The STEP grant year, which runs from Oct. 1, 2024, through Sept. 30, 2025, enables the Edwardsville Police to conduct additional enforcement operations, particularly

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PARIS, FRANCE - Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Mind the Bridge, and economic leaders for the Startup Ecosystems (SES) Awards in Paris, France. Representing Illinois and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Governor Pritzker made brief remarks and accepted an award on behalf of the State. “Across the world, governments, businesses, and NGOs are focusing more of their attention on building environments of innovation that can uplift emerging startups, light the fires of creativity, and harness human potential to not just drive prosperity – but also find solutions to humanity’s greatest challenges,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Illinois is proud to be a recognized part of this global startup community. With each step we grow closer to conquering our greatest challenges and in the process, we create a stronger, more connected, and more prosperous world.” The SES Awards is

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is announcing a reduction in permits for controlled pheasant hunting for the 2024 season, which means some sites will have reduced permits available in the northern part of the state. Hunters should check the permit calendar on the controlled pheasant hunt website for permit availability. Sites with reduced permits for controlled pheasant hunting include: Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area in Will County Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area in Kendall County Iroquois County State Fish and Wildlife Area Kankakee River State Park in Kankakee County Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area in Henry County Green River State Fish and Wildlife Area in Lee County Due to a pheasant die-off at the Des Plaines Game Propagation Center, there are no longer enough birds to fulfill the original quotas established for the sites at the beginning of the season. IDNR has reduced the number of permits per

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) are announcing changes to management responsibilities at the Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area . About 2,600 acres at Eckert’s Woods and Speaker Lake sub-impoundments will be returned to the USACE for wildlife management efforts. Prior to the management change, IDNR will take immediate action to remove the bridge at Eckert’s Woods. The primary access bridge to the area has failed due to frequent flood events, age, and natural deterioration. Demolition of the bridge is required to ensure public safety and avoid blocking the flow of the creek. The primary goal of the management change is to better focus limited IDNR funds on areas protected by the existing levee and water control system in sub-impoundments 1 and 2, and to allow the Corps of Engineers to focus its efforts on the rehabilitation necessary to make these areas manageable again. “IDNR

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Key Takeaways: A recent study warns that millions of young adults could face hearing loss due to unsafe listening habits. The biggest threats to our hearing are live music events and personal listening devices. Experts recommend wearing ear plugs, turn down the music and give your ears a break. Chris Workman, an audiologist with OSF HealthCare, loves to crank up his music from time to time. But since it’s his profession, he knows the dangers of loud noise and the lasting impact it can have on his hearing. “It stirs some emotion. It gets you pumped up,” says Dr. Workman. “It gets you if you're working out, you might crank some music. Some folks will listen to music for other emotions. Maybe they're feeling a different way, and cranking a song will bring them out of that depression or whatever they're going through.” But our listening habits could be doing more harm than good. Especially for younger people. A recent study published in

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WASHINGTON - U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, again pressed U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin today on his decision to revoke a long-sought guilty plea deal between prosecutors and defendants accused of perpetrating the attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001. Secretary Austin revoked the deal two days after it was announced despite two years of negotiations, a move that frustrated victims’ families and put them through emotional whiplash. Durbin pressed Secretary Austin to secure closure for the families by reconsidering his attempted revocation of the plea bargains in August, which Secretary Austin acknowledged. Ultimately, Secretary Austin has continued to push forward, despite the military commission judge ruling that Austin does not have the authority to revoke the plea agreements. Approved by the Convening Authority of the military commissions, the deal would have been a significant step toward

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GRANITE CITY – Granite City High School Principal Tim McChristian is pleased to announced that 16 students from the Granite City High School graduating class of 2025 have been designated as 2025-26 Illinois State Scholars for their outstanding academic achievement, as announced by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). The students will be recognized at the Granite City Community Unit School District #9 School Board Meeting on January 14, 2025. The Illinois Student Assistance Commission , the state’s college access and financial aid agency, confers this important recognition of academic achievement to exceptional Illinois high school students annually. This year, more than 16,500 honorees join the other outstanding students who have been honored since the designation was first introduced in 1958. 2025-26 GCHS Illinois State Scholars: Trenton Clutts LilyRose Cockrum Molly Hang Bailey Hanks Rhys Kaminski Elijah Kolb Savannah Kujawa Cleison Miranda-Gomez

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SOUTH ROXANA — The Village of South Roxana is thrilled to invite families to its Annual Christmas Event for Kids, from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, at South Roxana Village Hall. This heartwarming celebration is packed with activities to make the holiday season special for children and families alike. Kids can look forward to: Meeting Santa Claus and taking photos Enjoying hot cocoa and food Creating fun crafts at crafting stations, including Christmas ornaments, bird feeders, and coloring pages Taking home a goodie bag filled with holiday treats This event is made possible by the incredible collaboration between the South Roxana Dads Club, South Roxana Women’s Auxiliary, American Legion, and American Legion Women’s Auxiliary. These organizations have come together with the shared goal of supporting the children and families of South Roxana and celebrating the holiday season as a united community. Mayor TJ Callahan expressed his pride in the event

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As the cold weather sets in and the holiday season approaches, there’s no better way to gather friends, family, or colleagues than hosting a winter-themed potluck. This cozy and communal dining experience not only warms the heart but also offers a delightful array of seasonal dishes. Whether it's a festive gathering or a casual get-together, organizing a potluck can be both enjoyable and straightforward. Here’s how to create a memorable winter potluck that everyone will cherish. Setting the Date and Venue Choosing the right date and venue is crucial for a successful potluck. Consider the following: Pick a Date : Aim for a weekend afternoon or evening, making it easier for guests to attend. The weeks leading up to holidays can be busy, so plan accordingly. Select a Venue : Depending on the size of your guest list, you can host the potluck at home, in a community center, or even at a local park (if weather permits). Ensure that the location is accessible and comfortable

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Welcome to another enlightening edition of 'This Day in History'! Today, December 5th, is a day rich in fascinating events that have shaped our world in various ways. One of the most impactful global events to remember on December 5th is the death of Nelson Mandela in 2013. Mandela, a prominent anti-apartheid revolutionary and the first Black president of South Africa, passed away at the age of 95. His fight against racial oppression and his dedication to equality made him a symbol of peace and reconciliation around the globe. Mandela's leadership in the African National Congress and his 27 years of imprisonment for his beliefs became a rallying point for those fighting against apartheid. His legacy endures not only in South Africa but worldwide, inspiring countless movements for justice and human rights. Moving back in time, on December 5th, 1933, the 21st Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified, effectively repealing Prohibition. This day marked the end of

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ALTON—An attic fire at a residential home in the 4100 block of Aberdeen Ave prompted a swift response from local emergency services Thursday morning. Police and firefighters worked together to ensure the safety of the occupants. Officers from the Alton Police Department arrived on the scene to find smoke billowing from the eaves of the house. Acting quickly, the officers evacuated the homeowners and their pets from the property. The Alton Fire Department arrived shortly after and was able to bring the fire under control without incident. No injuries were reported as a result of the fire. The cause of the fire remains undetermined at this time, and authorities are continuing their investigation.

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EDWARDSVILLE — A group of talented music students from Edwardsville High School (EHS) has been selected to perform at the Illinois Music Educators Conference in January 2025. The announcement was made by Orchestra Director Victoria Voumard, who expressed pride in the students' achievements. The selected students represent various sections of the band, orchestra, and choir. The full list of students selected includes: David Maloney - Bb Clarinet August Meiser - Double Bass Daniel Tossey - Bb Clarinet Mark Hill - Bass I Savannah Kohlmiller - Alto II Lucy Schapman - Soprano I Alan Chen - Violin Karis Chen - Violin Adam Cundiff - Cello Lyla Hahn - Cello Gwen Harkey - Violin Ian Kim - Viola Luci Klingensmith - Oboe Addie Lingafelter - Violin Lily Reynolds - Cello Miko Shimizu - Viola Maya Taylor - Viola Ben Waymire - Double Bass Amelia Zhang - Viola The Illinois Music Educators Conference, a significant event in the state's music calendar, will take place

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GODFREY — The annual Cookies and Cocoa event is set to take place from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024, at Freer Auto Body, located at 4512 N. Alby St. in Godfrey. This year marks the 16th anniversary of the event, which began in memory of David, the late uncle of organizers Lily and Taylor Freer. Cookies and Cocoa has become a traditional holiday event that many in the area look forward to in support of the annual Community Christmas campaign. Margaret Freer, owner of Freer Auto Body, emphasized the importance of community support for the event. "Bring a gift, cash donation, whatever they want," she said. "Toys, coats, gift cards, bath and body items, basketballs, footballs, baby dolls, and personal hygiene items are what we need the most. For those in our community who don’t have much, anything is appreciated here at Christmas time." Freer noted that her company shops year-round in preparation for the Community Christmas campaign, and Cookies and Cocoa serves a

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EDWARDSVILLE – Several fire departments responded to a structure fire at Yummy Donut Palace, located at 443 South Buchanan, on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. Edwardsville Fire Department was the first to arrive to confront the fire. Firefighters arrived on the scene to find smoke coming from a vent of the building, prompting the request for a commercial box alarm. Glen Carbon and Wood River Fire Departments assisted with their ladder trucks, while the Edwardsville Fire Department deployed its own ladder truck to access the roof. Firefighters worked swiftly to bring the fire under control. As of now, the extent of the damage to the business remains unclear. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the incident.

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GODFREY – A motorcycle crash on southbound Illinois Route 255 at Humbert Road Wednesday afternoon prompted a response from multiple emergency services, including the Godfrey Fire Department, Alton Memorial Ambulance, Illinois State Police, and Madison County Sheriff’s Department. Firefighters arriving at the scene found the motorcyclist off the roadway, suffering from serious injuries. Due to the critical nature of the situation, a Survival Flight Medical Helicopter was dispatched to assist. As the helicopter landed on the highway, southbound 255 was temporarily closed to ensure the safety of all personnel involved. The victim was subsequently transported to a hospital in the St. Louis area for further medical treatment. No additional details regarding the condition of the motorcyclist or the circumstances surrounding the crash have been released at this time.

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