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COLLINSVILLE - The Illinois State Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Monday, Dec. 23, 2024, in Collinsville, following a series of events that began with a residential burglary report. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) and the Collinsville Police Department (CPD) requested the investigation after the incident unfolded in the 9000 block of Rene Avenue. At approximately 8:22 p.m., MCSO responded to a report of a burglary in unincorporated Pontoon Beach. Upon arrival, officers found that the suspects had already fled the scene. Shortly thereafter, CPD located a vehicle believed to be connected to the suspects and attempted a traffic stop; however, the vehicle fled again. The situation escalated when CPD later discovered the crashed suspect vehicle, which was unoccupied. Officers from MCSO and CPD established a perimeter in the area and subsequently located one of the suspects walking on Rene Avenue with a firearm in hand. According t

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COLLINSVILLE – The Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Kahok Hall of Fame announced the 2025 class of inductees during a ceremony at the Collinsville Prairie Farms Holiday Classic Basketball Tournament in Fletcher Gymnasium at Collinsville High School. The Hall of Fame was established in May 2022 “to recognize athletic and personal accomplishments, exemplary citizenship, contributions to society and actions that brought distinction and honor to all associated with Collinsville Community Unit School District #10.” The 2025 group is the third to be enshrined in the Kahok Hall of Fame. Thirty-five individuals and teams have earned a place in the Hall of Fame since the first ceremony in February 2023. Beginning in June 2024, nominations for the 2025 class of inductees were solicited from the public. In September, members of the Hall of Fame Selection Committee - four from the school district and seven representing the community at large - chose this year’s

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WATERLOO HOLIDAY TOURNAMENT MARQUETTE CATHOLIC 63, RED BUD 28: In the third-place game of the Waterloo Holiday Tournament, Marquette jumped out to a big early lead, and never looked back in taking the win over Red Bud. Allie Weiner led the Explorers with 19 points, while Delaney Ortman had nine points, Laila Davis scored five points, Jami Jones had four points, Kel'c Robinson came up with three points, Kaylyn St. Peters had two points, and Izzy Hough hit for a single point. The girls went 3-1 at the tournament with victories over Columbia, Marissa, and their 43-28 win today vs Red Bed. Kel’c Robinson was named to the All-Tournament team. The Explorers have now won 6 of their last 7 games and move to 9-6 on the season. The Musketeers slip to 12-6. The 2024-2025 varsity roster for the local high school girls' basketball team has a mix of talent and experience among its players. The roster features a total of 14 players, with a blend of forwards, guards, and centers.

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY - St. Louis County Police are investigating a fatal pedestrian accident that occurred late Saturday night, resulting in the death of an adult male. The incident took place at approximately 11:22 p.m. on Dec. 28, 2024, in the 10100 block of Gravois Road, near the intersection with Laclede Station Road. Officers from the Affton Southwest Precinct in St. Louis County responded to a call reporting a person struck by vehicles. Upon arrival, they found the male victim who had been hit by two motor vehicles. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Preliminary investigations indicate that the victim was in the roadway when he was struck. Both drivers involved in the incident remained at the scene and are cooperating with law enforcement. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210. Individuals wishing to remain anonymous or potentially receive a reward

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GLEN CARBON — A two-vehicle accident occurred on the northbound lanes of Illinois Route 159 at Illinois Highway 270 on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024. The incident took place around 7 p.m. The Glen Carbon Police Department on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, said there were no serious injuries reported in the crash and both vehicles did sustain damage. Emergency responders from the Glen Carbon Fire Department and Police Department were called to the Route 159 scene. According to reports, law enforcement has noted that a traffic light in the area is not functioning and has requested additional units for traffic control. Authorities are advising motorists to avoid the area while they manage the situation. The cause of the accident remains under investigation, and further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

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GODFREY — A traffic crash involving a bicyclist and a pickup truck on Sunday evening, Dec. 29, 2024, resulted in the death of the cyclist, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Madison County Sheriff's Office. The incident occurred around 6:26 p.m. on Dec. 29, 2024, in the 4100 block of Humbert Road in unincorporated Alton. According to preliminary investigations, a vehicle, described as a blue pickup truck, struck the bicyclist and subsequently fled the scene. The Madison County Sheriff's Office confirmed that the bicyclist was pronounced dead following the collision. Authorities have not released the identity of the victim pending notification of family members. As investigators work at the scene, Humbert Road between Union School Road and Randolph Street has been temporarily closed to traffic. The sheriff's office has stated that further updates will be provided as the investigation develops.

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Welcome to our journey through time as we explore significant historical events that occurred on December 29th throughout the years. A notable event on this day occurred in 1845 when President John Tyler announced the U.S. annexation of Texas. This decision had profound implications for the expansion of the United States and the contentious issue of slavery in the newly acquired territories. The annexation of Texas was a controversial topic that intensified sectional tensions and ultimately led to the Mexican-American War. This conflict not only expanded U.S. territory but also raised questions about the balance of power between free and slave states, shaping the political landscape of the nation for decades to come. Fast forward to 1890, December 29th marked a tragic event in American history known as the Wounded Knee Massacre. The U.S. Army's 7th Cavalry Regiment opened fire on a group of Lakota Sioux at Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota, resulting in the deaths of hundreds o

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ALTON - The Wellness Center at Senior Services Plus, located at 2603 North Rodgers Avenue in Alton, is excited to announce that it is now accepting new clients for both personal training and personal workout plans. Just in time for new year's resolutions, SSP’s Wellness Center certified personal trainers are ready to provide tailored guidance, motivation, and expert support to help clients reach their health and wellness goals. How do you choose which is best for you? Individuals who are comfortable and confident working out on their own but require guidance getting started will benefit from personalized workout plans. Sherri, an SSP Wellness Center client, was more comfortable with using the machinery after her meeting with Dan, a personal trainer at the wellness center. "Dan showed me how to work the equipment. He made sure I made notes regarding my personal settings and "how to" use.” Personal training is beneficial to those needing one-on-one time with a trainer fo

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GODFREY, — Emergency responders from the Godfrey Fire Department and the Madison County Sheriff’s Department were called to the scene of a fatal incident involving a train and a pedestrian on Saturday morning in the 500 block of Big Arch Road. Madison County dispatch received a call reporting that a train had struck an individual on the tracks. First responders quickly arrived at the location, where they found a male victim who was pronounced deceased at the scene. Due to the challenging terrain of the wooded area, the Godfrey Fire Department utilized their UTV to transport personnel to the site. Alton Memorial Ambulance also responded to the incident, providing additional support. The Madison County Coroner's Office was requested to assist in the investigation. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Coroner's Office, is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. No further information has been released at this time.

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EAST ALTON - East Alton Parks and Recreation Department will host its second annual Picklin’ for a Cause pickleball tournament to raise money for Honor Flight. On Jan. 18 and 19, 2025, at Keasler Recreation Complex in East Alton, local pickleball players over age 18 can compete in a tournament and enjoy raffles, all for a good cause. Ruby Berghoff, U.S.A. Pickleball Ambassador for Madison County, explained the importance of donating to Honor Flight and enjoying a weekend of pickleball. “We have a range from 18 years of age to 92, and it’s just such an awesome social experience. That’s probably more what pickleball is about than the competitive side, just the friends that you make and the community that we’ve established out there,” she said. On Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, there will be men’s and women’s doubles, followed by mixed doubles on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025. There are a few spots left in each skill level, from novice to skilled.

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ROXANA - The Roxana Shells Athletic Department recently showcased their wrestling talent at the Mascoutah Tournament, held over the weekend. The team finished fourth overall, marking a significant achievement in their competitive season. Juner Green and Trevor Gihring each celebrated a milestone, securing their 100th career wins during the tournament. Green competed in the 132-pound weight class and earned first place, while Gihring, wrestling in the 157-pound category, finished in fifth place. Other notable performances included Lyndon Thies, who took first place in the 175-pound weight class, and Robert Watt, who secured second place in the 190-pound category. Logan Riggs also contributed to the team's effort, finishing sixth in the 144-pound weight class. The Roxana wrestling squad members are Midwest Members Credit Union Male Athletes of the Month for the Shells. The Shells' strong showing at the Mascoutah Tournament reflects their dedication and skill as they continue

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ALTON - Ahead of the lame-duck session that starts on Jan. 4, 2025, State Representative Amy Elik has a message for her constituents in the 111th District. Elik has a bill she is pushing forward before the new state representatives and senators are inaugurated on Jan. 8, 2025. She is also keeping an eye on the Illinois budget and property taxes that affect Illinois residents. Elik promised her constituents that she will continue advocating for them as the new year approaches. “I am serving my district the best way I can, and I just got reelected, so I think the majority of the voters think that I was doing that well,” she said. “I wish I could say I know exactly what’s going to happen on Jan. 4th through the 7th, but I definitely don’t know and I think it’s still coming together. Sadly, bad things can come along really quickly in Springfield. So we are alert, we are ready to go, we will spend all night if we have to, and we will make sure

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PIASA - Gracie Darr, a standout athlete at Southwestern High School, is making waves this season as a key player in basketball. She was also a volleyball standout, and is predicted to be strong in multiple events in track and field in the spring of 2025. The senior's versatility and leadership have earned her recognition from coaches and teammates alike as she continues to excel in multiple sports. Darr is an Altonized Community Federal Credit Union Female Athlete Of The Month. Darr is not only the sole senior on the girls' basketball team, where she averages 10 points per game, but she also plays a crucial role in fostering team culture. Coach Darren Mosley describes her as “like having a coach on the floor,” noting her ability to score and share the ball effectively with her teammates. In track and field, Darr is a multi-event athlete, participating in the 4x100, 4x200, 4x400 relays, high jump, long jump, and triple jump. Her primary focus, however, is pole vaulting,

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ALTON - Students from Alton Middle School and Alton High School showcased their musical talents at the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) District 6 Festival recently at Belleville West High School. The event brought together passionate music students from across Southern Illinois for a day of learning and collaboration under the guidance of distinguished conductors. The festival featured a variety of performances, including Junior and Senior Chorus, Junior and Senior Bands, and orchestras. Participants included students from both schools, with notable performances in Junior Chorus by Adele Donoho, Aziya Ewing, and Isabel Linley, among others. The Junior Orchestra comprised talented musicians such as Anderson Brooks on violin and Arya Schaper on cello. Frank Lestina, a highly respected conductor, and Yuhm Pham, a well-known orchestra director from the Chicago suburbs, led the Junior and Senior orchestras, respectively. Their expertise was well-received, with students expressin

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CHICAGO – Amid the Mega Millions mania, an Illinois Lottery player swooped in and took home a $1 million Powerball prize. The winning ticket was purchased for the Saturday, December 21 Powerball drawing at a Jewel-Osco in Melrose Park, located at 800 North Avenue. The lucky player matched all five numbers, 1-12-17-21-58, to score the $1 million prize. For selling the winning ticket, the Jewel-Osco in Melrose Park will receive a one percent bonus of the prize amount, or $10,000. Winners have one year from the date of the winning draw to claim their prize. The Illinois Lottery encourages all lucky winners to write their name on the back of their ticket and keep it in a safe place until they’re ready to claim their prize. Powerball tickets are $2 each, and players have the option to add the Power Play feature for an additional $1 for the chance to multiply non-jackpot prizes. Powerball drawings are conducted Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday evenings at 9:59 PM CT. Th

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CHICAGO – Workers in Illinois who provide personal care to family members are protected from employment discrimination based on family responsibilities as of January 1, 2025. Illinois is now one of fewer than 10 states to provide employment protections for family caregivers. “Being a caregiver is one of the most important roles a person can take on, and in Illinois, we’re making sure no one is penalized for stepping up for their loved ones,” said Governor JB Pritzker . “With this law, we’re strengthening protections for workers and ensuring caregivers can balance their responsibilities at work and at home.” “Workplace policies should reflect the realities of caregiving and the responsibilities today’s families face,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton . “This law not only provides protections but also recognizes the complex lives of working people and helps create more supportive and compassionate workplaces.”

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Madison County Sheriff's Office recently announced the addition of Jonathon Zaragoza to its Jail Division. Zaragoza has commenced his Jail Division Field Training and is scheduled to attend the Southwestern Illinois College Corrections Academy in January. Sheriff's officials expressed pride in welcoming Zaragoza, emphasizing the importance of ongoing training and education for personnel in law enforcement. The Corrections Academy will provide Zaragoza with the essential skills and knowledge required for his role within the Jail Division. Zaragoza is shown above with Madison County Sheriff Jeff Connor and Chief Deputy Marcos Pulido. The integration of new staff members is part of the Sheriff's Office's ongoing efforts to enhance operational effectiveness and maintain safety within the community.

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O'FALLON — A memorial plaque honoring O'Fallon City Marshal Benjamin B. (BB) Schmitt was unveiled Thursday evening, Dec. 19, 2024, at the Public Safety Building, marking a significant recognition of the officer who was killed in the line of duty on March 21, 1916. The event, organized by the O'Fallon Historic Preservation Commission, aimed to provide a local tribute to Schmitt, who has been commemorated at the National and State Law Enforcement Memorials but lacked a dedicated site in O'Fallon. The ceremony featured a flag folding and presentation by the O'Fallon Police Honor Guard to Schmitt's family. More than 25 descendants of the late marshal were in attendance, including five of his grandchildren: Jerome Lehman, Jim Schmitt, Lawrence Schmitt, Nancy Karrigan, and Lucy Adcock. Jim Schmitt, who owns Wood Bakery, expressed the family's gratitude for the recognition. The unveiling was performed by Hank Schmitt, BB Schmitt's great-great-grandson, who honored his ancestor by wearing

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RIVERBEND - There’s still time to enter your home or business in our Holiday Lights Contest! RiverBender.com , Raging Rivers WaterPark and Tropical Sno/Lotus Energy have come together to sponsor a Holiday Lights Contest throughout the Riverbend region. Post pictures of your favorite holiday lights display in the comments of our Facebook post for the chance to win. The grand prize is $250 cash, season passes to Raging Rivers for a family of four, and free Tropical Sno or Lotus Energy Drinks for a year (restrictions apply). “We want to see more entries so we can spread holiday cheer and celebrate the hard work of our neighbors,” said RiverBender.com owner John Hentrich. “Voting is open, so everyone is encouraged to join the fun and choose a winner.” Second and third place winners will receive day passes to Raging Rivers for a family of four and free Tropical Sno or Lotus Energy Drinks for a year, with some restrictions. Homes an

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As the days grow shorter and the nights become chillier, winter presents the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and enjoy a cozy dinner party. The ambiance of warm lights, the aroma of delicious food, and the warmth of friendship make for an unforgettable experience. However, hosting a winter dinner party involves careful planning and attention to detail. This article will guide you through the essential elements to ensure your gathering is both enjoyable and memorable. Setting the Scene Choosing the Right Space The first step in hosting a winter dinner party is selecting the right venue. If you have a spacious dining area, that can be an ideal choice. Alternatively, consider the inviting warmth of a living room with a fireplace, which can create a snug atmosphere. Think about accommodating your guests comfortably, ensuring there are enough seats and space for mingling. Lighting for Ambiance Lighting is critical in setting the mood for your winter dinner party. Opt for

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