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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — Cedric Gerald, a 48-year-old former principal at Westview Middle School in St. Louis County, faces nine criminal charges related to sexual misconduct involving minors, the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office announced Wednesday, May 14, 2025. Gerald, who has served as principal since 2023, was arrested and is being held on a $1 million cash-only bond without the option of a 10% payment. Gerald has been charged by the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney's Office with second-degree sexual trafficking of a child under 18 years of age, sexual exploitation of a minor, possession of child pornography, attempted statutory sodomy – person less than 14 years of age, sexual misconduct involving a child under 15, first-degree harassment, sexual contact with a student, and two counts of second-degree statutory sodomy. The St. Louis County Prosecuting Office said there may be additional victims due to the extent of Gerald’s interaction

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ST. LOUIS - The City Of St. Louis Emergency Management Agency will conduct additional siren testing as studies continue toward installing new outdoor warning sirens within the city. The audible siren testing will occur on Thursday, May 15, 2025, beginning at 12:00 p.m. (noon). Sirens will sound once every 30 minutes, and testing could occur for up to four hours. Residents will be notified of the testing through CEMA’s NotifySTL alerts and social media accounts. “This testing will assist with the research necessary to ensure new sirens have the best reach possible to everyone in the City of St. Louis, residents and visitors alike,” said Sarah Russell, Commissioner of the City’s Emergency Management Agency. “The City installed the current Outdoor Warning Siren system 25 years ago, and over that time, the City’s landscape has changed substantially in some areas. The City of St. Louis has allocated $3.9 million toward a replacement system. Upgrading

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ST. LOUIS, MO. – On Thursday, May 15, 2025, Mayor Cara Spencer announced that she is appointing Colonel Benjamin Jonsson as chief operating officer for the City of St. Louis, bringing internationally recognized leadership to the position directly overseeing the city’s operations. “Colonel Ben Jonsson has spent a long career serving our nation in a host of demanding leadership roles in the Middle East and at home,” said Mayor Spencer. “Having a leader of this caliber run City operations is a windfall for St. Louisans. I am immensely grateful to Colonel Jonsson for his service to our nation, and now, our city.” Jonsson has served in the U.S. Air Force for more than 25 years, including at the highest levels of the national security community and international operations. In his final assignment, he served as chief of staff at the Air Mobility Command at Scott Air Force Base since 2023, driving strategic alignment and execution for a 1,300-person globa

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Thursday, May 15, 2025,, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) announced that she worked to secure millions in much needed disaster aid for the City of Springfield and St. Clair County. Specifically, the city was awarded $1,387,003.38 to help address debris removal from severe flooding in the summer of 2023. The grant is awarded through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Budzinski has been a consistent advocate for additional FEMA funding for the federal government to appropriately respond to disasters impacting families across the nation. Additionally, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) announced that Illinois counties impacted by July 2024 storms and flooding, including St. Clair County, are now eligible to apply for FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. IEMA estimates that there will be around $20 million in funding available for all applicants

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GLEN CARBON – Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois is pleased to celebrate the outstanding volunteers who earned awards at our annual Recognition of Excellence ceremony. These volunteers exemplify our mission of building girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. President’s Award The President’s Award recognizes the efforts of a service unit team whose exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience surpassed team goals and resulted in significant, measurable impact toward reaching the council’s overall goals. Service Unit 109 – serving the Troy/St. Jacob area Appreciation Pin Award The Appreciation Pin recognizes an individual’s exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. This service, which has had measurable impact on at least one service unit, contributes to expanding the council’s reach and surpassing its mission-delivery

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WOOD RIVER - A fight broke out in the parking lot near East Alton-Wood River High School after graduation on Wednesday night, May 14, 2025, Wood River Police Chief Brad Wells said late in the evening. "A fight broke out between two females in the parking lot after graduation," Chief Wells said. "They knew each other and have had ongoing problems with each other. "One was holding a child. Other acquaintances got involved to give the appearance of a large fight happening. EMS was called to check on the child. No one was transported with any injuries. Everyone was dispersed." No other information was available about the dispute at this time.

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Discover a wide range of exciting events happening across the Riverbend area, from lively music performances and vibrant farmers' markets to engaging workshops and family-friendly festivals, there's something to captivate everyone. For a complete listing of upcoming events, visit https://www.riverbender.com/events/ . Featured City of Troy - 2025 Spring City/Village Wide Garage Sales is happening on May 16 & 17 from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This event offers a fantastic opportunity to explore a variety of items ranging from furniture and collectibles to everyday essentials across the city of Troy. It's a perfect chance for bargain hunters and treasure seekers alike to find great deals throughout the city. For those interested in participating, registration for addresses and an interactive map are available. More information can be found by visiting www.troymaryvillecoc.com, emailing info@troymaryvillecoc.com, or calling 618-667-8769. Village of Marine - 2025 Spring City/Village Wide

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EDWARDSVILLE/ALTON — Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced Wednesday that a jury found a defendant guilty of aggravated discharge of a firearm for firing shots at two homes in Alton, nearly striking a child. The jury deliberated about two hours Wednesday before finding Rondell L. Sanders, 32, of Alton guilty of two counts of aggravated discharge of a firearm and one count of obstructing justice. The trial began Monday. Evidence and testimony showed that Sanders had been involved in a feud with an individual who was residing at a home on Belle Street. That home and a neighboring home were struck by gunfire on May 22, 2024. The shots were fired from a vehicle. No one was injured, but some of the bullets nearly struck a 3- 3-year-old child who was inside one of the homes. While Alton Police were at the scene gathering evidence from the roadway, a suspect vehicle drove around the police barricades and through the crime scene. Police pursued the vehicle and apprehended

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ALTON – The Alton City Council gave final approval Wednesday night for an agreement to lay the groundwork for the next home of Germania Brew Haus in Alton. Under the agreement between the City of Alton and G1 Germania Brew Haus LLC, the city has agreed to reimburse Germania for up to $75,000 worth of redevelopment costs for the site at 700 E. Broadway. This amount would be paid using Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds. The full scope of the project includes site excavation, grading, paving, and utility installation. Under the terms of the agreement, Germania agrees to have this work completed within one year, now that the agreement has been officially approved and executed. Germania Owner Carolyn Brynildsen announced in March that the beloved local coffee shop would be moving from its original location at 617 E. Broadway, which remains open until the new location is built. The next Brew Haus will feature a dedicated drive-thru, rooftop seating, and all-season patio seating

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WOOD RIVER — The Wood River Police Department held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday afternoon, May 14, 2025, to open a new walking trail around the police department property and to dedicate a new police memorial, coinciding with National Police Week. Wood River Police Chief Brad Wells said the timing was intentional, noting that “this week would be the perfect week” to unveil the trail and memorial. The walking trail, approximately half a mile long, was funded by a grant from the Agency for Community Transit and offers residents a safe place to walk. The new police memorial, located outside the Wood River Police Department, honors five officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. Among those commemorated is Police Chief Samuel Thompson, who was shot and killed on Dec. 6, 1912, while attempting to arrest a man threatening his employer near Ferguson Avenue and Second Street. Despite being mortally wounded, Thompson returned fire and killed the suspect. H

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EDWARDSVILLE – Residents from around the Riverbend and beyond have been charged in separate cases with unlawful possession of weapons. Nicholas A. Simpson, 21, of Granite City, was charged on May 9, 2025 with unlawful possession of a stolen firearm (a Class 2 felony) and aggravated unlawful possession of weapons (a Class 4 felony). On May 9, 2025, Simpson allegedly possessed a Glock 17 9mm pistol which he reportedly knew was stolen. His possession of the weapon was unlawful as the gun was “uncased, loaded, and immediately accessible at the time of the offense,” court documents state; Simpson also had no valid Firearm Owners’ Identification (FOID) card. Simpson’s case was presented by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, and he was granted pretrial release from custody. Jacob Silva, 18, of Edwardsville, was charged in a separate case filed on May 6, 2025 with a Class 4 felony count of possession of a firearm within five years of admission in a

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, MO. — Detectives with the St. Louis County Police Department Bureau of Crimes Against Persons are investigating a homicide that occurred Monday afternoon, May 12, 2025, in the 1100 block of Rio Avenue. At approximately 1:20 p.m., officers from the North County Precinct responded to reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found an adult male suffering from life-threatening gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital but later died from his injuries. No suspects are currently in custody. Authorities have not released the identity of the victim. The investigation remains active. Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210. Those wishing to remain anonymous or seeking a potential reward can reach out to CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477). Additional details will be provided as they become available.

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JERSEYVILLE – A local business planning to open at 221 S. State Street in Jerseyville will get a boost in Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds to complete concrete work at the site. On Tuesday, members of the Jerseyville City Council unanimously approved a large facade commercial grant application submitted by Nana’s Hometown Sweets & Eats Owner Josh Chappell. Building & Zoning Director Jeff Soer said the scope of the work includes converting the gravel portion of the site’s parking lot into concrete. Not only will this ensure consistency between drive-up areas, but also compliance with city regulations against gravel parking lots. Soer said 50% of the total project cost is eligible for TIF funds. With an estimated cost of $48,800, the city has agreed to reimburse up to $24,400 in TIF-eligible project costs. The concrete work at Nana’s Hometown Sweets & Eats is expected to be completed sometime in May of 2025, weather and other conditions permitting. In

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ALTON - For a unique and successful blend of talents in band, theater and engineering, our most recent Remarkable Redbird, junior Wesley LeBrun, will be leading the way. Wesley said during a recent interview that "Alton High is a great school and he is proud to attend." Wesley has been a member of the Marching Band, Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble and also the Marching 100 at Alton High. He has played a number of different percussion instruments including the snare drum, xylophone, kettle drum and marimba during his three years at Alton High. To participate in the Illinois Music Educators Association contest, Wesley submitted a video performance at a District Festival for a chance to perform with the top high school percussionists in the state of Illinois which he did during a contest in Peoria earlier this year. He was a member of the pit orchestra for the musicals his first two years at Alton High in playing for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and also Annie, but after talking

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office charged 24-year-old Jullian Boling on Wednesday with aggravated fleeing a stop or detention following a high-speed police pursuit on May 12. Boling, who resides on the 8300 block of Washington Street in St. Louis, faces the charges after officers observed a vehicle traveling eastbound on Chambers Road exceeding the 35 mph speed limit by reaching speeds over 60 mph. The vehicle, which lacked a front license plate, was seen weaving from the right lane into the center turn lane to bypass traffic. An officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop by activating lights and sirens, but the vehicle continued to speed past numerous vehicles and pedestrians. The vehicle was later identified as wanted through a license plate reader system. On May 13, officers located the vehicle parked in front of a Conoco gas station at Bellefontaine Road and Chambers Road. When an officer approached, Boling was found in the

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ALTON — The City of Alton has been recognized in the Family Destinations Guide publication as an affordable and welcoming place for retirees living on Social Security income. The article, published May 10, 2025, highlights Alton’s unique combination of small-town charm, rich history, natural beauty, and manageable living costs. Alton Mayor David Goins expressed pride in the recognition, and said: “It is really nice. It showcases our city and it is just a great representation, and encourages me to see that people from the outside, how they see our Alton. This type of recognition should also resonate with our residents as well.” Alton, located at the confluence of the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois rivers, offers retirees the opportunity to live comfortably on a fixed income, the Family Destinations Guide article says. The article describes how Social Security benefits can cover housing, meals, and entertainment without financial strain, citing the town’s

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS — Officer Connor Maedge has been named the Fairview Heights Police Department’s Officer of the Year for 2024, recognizing his outstanding contributions to law enforcement and community safety since joining the department in February. Maedge has made significant impacts through his enforcement efforts. In 2024, he made 28 traffic arrests and apprehended 30 fugitives. His work also earned him the department’s “Top ACE” award, an accolade given for exceptional achievement. In addition to his enforcement record, Maedge has been recognized multiple times throughout the year, receiving Officer of the Month nominations in August, October, and November. Department officials cited his unwavering character and dedication as key reasons for the honor. Beyond his professional duties, Maedge demonstrated a commitment to community service by requesting toy donations for the Salvation Army at his wedding, an act described by the department as reflecting

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GRAFTON – Raging Rivers WaterPark is set to make a splash as it opens for its 36th season on Saturday, May 17. This summer promises more excitement than ever, with Season Pass holders enjoying a host of exclusive perks. In addition to unlimited park admission, pass holders will receive a complimentary ticket to the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 Indy Car event in June, special event access at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, IL, and free admission to Santa’s Village in East Dundee, IL. Other benefits include exclusive offers, bring-a-friend-free days, and complimentary fountain drinks for both pass holders and daily guests. The 2025 Special Event lineup offers something for everyone: Rubber Duck Race on May 17, with a chance to win $1,000 and other prizes Educator Appreciation Days from May 24–26, offering free admission to school staff with valid ID Magical Mermaid Mondays on June 9, July 7, and August 4 QEM Big Red Day on June 27, featuring firetruck

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi regarding the legal justification for President Trump’s attempted acquisition of a private jet as a gift from the royal family of Qatar, which the President has since confirmed . Bondi reportedly provided a memo to the White House Counsel’s Office (WHCO) deeming the gift “legally permissible,” despite its unconstitutionality and her clear conflict of interest with Qatar from past lobbying work. Durbin outlined the gift’s blatant unconstitutionality, writing: “As reported, this gift clearly violates the Constitution and the statutory regime enacted by Congress to govern such gifts. The Constitution unequivocally bestows on Congress the power to control whether any officer of the United States, including the President, may accept a gift ‘from any King, Prince, or foreign State.’&rdquo

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WASHINGTON – As Russia continues their unjustified and unprovoked war of aggression in Ukraine, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) Co-Chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, today introduced legislation to prohibit the United States from recognizing the Russian Federation’s claim of sovereignty over Crimea or any other forcibly seized Ukrainian territory, including any related airspace or territorial waters. The bill simply states that it is the policy of the United States not to recognize Russia’s claim of sovereignty over Crimea or any other forcibly seized Ukrainian territory and that no Federal department or agency may take any action, extend any nonhumanitarian assistance, or spend any funds that implies such recognition unless any such claim is formally recognized by the democratically elected Government of Ukraine. In 2022, Durbin, along with then-Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), introduced similar bipartisan legislation, the Non-Recognition of Russian

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