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SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias awarded $28.3 million for library services and literacy programs throughout the state. The grants include awards to the regional libraries systems across the state to enhance online catalogues at local libraries, support day-to-day operations, expand interlibrary loan programs and to radio information services that equip vision-impaired individuals with narrations of newspaper content. The literacy grants are designed to promote basic reading, math, writing and English language skills. “Providing our libraries – the cornerstones of our communities – with the support necessary to expand their services and programs is vital to ensuring that all Illinoisans are empowered to learn, grow and explore, regardless of where they live, their physical abilities, financial situation or educational background,” Giannoulias said. “At the same time, raising literacy rates across

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CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker has proclaimed September 15-21, 2025, Rail Safety Week in Illinois, marking the 12th year of the statewide awareness initiative. In recognition, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) and Operation Lifesaver, a national rail safety non-profit, will be sharing life-saving rail safety information around the state. “Knowing how to act safely on and around railways is key to preventing collisions and protecting Illinoisians,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Rail Safety Week is a reminder of the dangers associated with highway-rail crossings, and the importance of always looking and listening near train tracks. I would encourage all Illinoisans to attend a rail safety event this week and share the information with loved ones.” “Every three hours, someone in the US is hit by a train. With more than 7,000 miles of tracks and 10,000 public highway-rail crossings, the sheer size of Illinois’ rail system puts us at

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JERSEYVILLE – A Jerseyville man previously convicted of domestic battery has been charged again with the same offense after allegedly attacking a member of his household. Zackery L. Stumbaugh, 34, of Jerseyville, was charged on Sept. 10, 2025, with one count of domestic battery, a Class 4 felony. On Sept. 9, 2025, Stumbaugh allegedly struck a household member in the mouth with his elbow, grasped the same victim’s leg and arm with his hands, and threw her onto a bed, knowingly causing bodily harm to the victim. Charging documents state Stumbaugh had previously been convicted of domestic battery in a 2018 case out of Sangamon County, Ill. In this latest case, Stumbaugh was initially granted pretrial release from custody with an initial court appearance set for Sept. 16, 2025, at 9 a.m. However, Jersey County court records indicate he has since failed to appear in court and a warrant is now being prepared for his arrest. All individuals charged are presumed innocent

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ALTON - You have the chance to learn more about spiritual connection and waking dreams at the Mississippi Earthtones Festival. Scheduled for this Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, at the Alton Amphitheater, the Mississippi Earthtones Festival will have a variety of booths and activities for people to enjoy. Flora and Chuck, two students of Eckankar, are most excited for their 2 p.m. workshop in the Zen Zone, titled “Prophecy for the Moment: Getting the Message of Your Waking Dreams.” “Everybody is on a spiritual journey, whether they’re aware of it or not,” Flora said. “The importance is your own inner guidance, really becoming solid with that.” The “Prophecy for the Moment” workshop asks the question, “Was that a coincidence or guidance from divine spirit?” Chuck, Flora and other ECKists will share experiences and spiritual exercises from their daily lives. Eckankar is a religion, also known as “the path

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ALTON - Wanda Chancellor is organizing a fundraiser to raise money for a wheelchair-accessible van for 3-year-old Rhea Chancellor of Alton, who was left paralyzed from the neck down after a sudden and severe illness on Nov. 26, 2022. Rhea spent one month in the intensive care unit fighting for her life, followed by two months at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital, beginning her rehabilitation. Since then, she has undergone three major surgeries, including a nerve transfer, emergency toe surgery, and brain surgery. She is also preparing for double hand surgery in Philadelphia later this month. Despite these challenges, Rhea has shown remarkable strength and resilience. Her family said she faces each obstacle with bravery and a smile that inspires those around her. However, transportation remains a significant challenge that limits her ability to participate fully in family outings, school, and other activities. The fundraiser aims to provide a wheelchair-accessible van to ensure

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NEW YORK – Simmons Hanly Conroy , one of the nation's largest mass torts firms and a national leader in the legal representation of mesothelioma patients and their families, is pleased to announce that firm attorney John B. Wetmore has been elevated to partner. Based in the New York City office since joining Simmons Hanly Conroy in 2020, Wetmore is a member of the firm’s Asbestos Litigation department, helping families affected by mesothelioma. He focuses his practice on all stages of litigation, with a particular emphasis on legal research, motions, and appellate practice. “John has excelled for many years as a key member of our team focused on holding powerful asbestos companies accountable for the harm they’ve caused,” said Simmons Hanly Conroy Managing Attorney Laurence V. Nassif . “We congratulate John on his elevation to partner in recognition of his many successes for our clients.” Before joining Simmons Hanly Conroy, Wetmor

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ST. LOUIS — In September, the American Red Cross reminds people that giving blood now helps support patients the moment they need medical care. Donors of all types, especially those with types O positive and B negative blood, are asked to make an appointment to give. National Preparedness Month is underway – a time to remember lifesaving blood products are an essential part of preparedness for every type of disaster, whether it be home fires or natural disasters, such as hurricanes, flooding and wildfires. Severe weather can disrupt blood collections by causing blood drive cancellations and impacting donors’ ability to give. Additionally, trauma patients may need blood product transfusions within minutes of entering emergency rooms. Those who give now could help someone in dire moments. A little care goes a long way People coming together to care for one another is the humanitarian spirit shared by our Red Cross community and fans of PEANUTS for the past

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Did you know that avocados, the star ingredient of guacamole, have been cultivated for over 7,000 years? Yet, despite its ancient origins, guacamole remains one of the most beloved dips worldwide, celebrated annually on National Guacamole Day. But how can you elevate this classic beyond the traditional blend of avocado, lime, and salt? This article explores inventive ways to honor National Guacamole Day, offering fresh perspectives and creative ideas to enhance your guacamole experience. Rethinking Guacamole: Beyond the Classic Recipe Guacamole’s simplicity is part of its charm, but innovation can transform it into a culinary adventure. The traditional recipe typically includes ripe avocados, lime juice, salt, chopped onions, cilantro, and sometimes tomatoes or jalapeños. While these ingredients are tried and true, exploring alternative flavors and textures can invigorate your appreciation for this dip. Example: The Sweet and Savory Balance Introducing fruits such as

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September 16 has been a date marked by significant events throughout history, spanning diplomatic milestones, groundbreaking discoveries, and cultural shifts that have shaped the world we live in today. Moving back to the 18th century, September 16, 1776, witnessed a critical battle during the American Revolutionary War—the Battle of Harlem Heights. American forces, under General George Washington, successfully repelled British troops in New York City, providing a much-needed morale boost to the fledgling Continental Army. This engagement helped sustain the revolutionary spirit that ultimately led to American independence. In cultural history, September 16, 1920, saw the first radio broadcast of a baseball game, bringing America’s favorite pastime directly into homes and connecting fans nationwide. This innovation helped popularize sports broadcasting, changing how audiences engage with live events and setting the foundation for modern sports media. Lastly, in the realm

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GILLESPIE — Dylan C. Franko, 26, of Gillespie, was arrested and charged with aggravated fleeing following an incident on Interstate 55 on August 23, 2025. According to charging documents, Franko fled from a Gilliespie police officer while driving a 2017 Ford passenger car and exceeded the posted speed limit by 21 miles per hour during the pursuit. The charges were filed on September 8, 2025. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS - Fairview Heights Police responded early Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, to a report of a man armed with a rifle walking on MetroLink train tracks. At approximately 1:19 a.m. on Sept. 14, 2025, officers located the individual, who cooperated with authorities. Upon investigation, it was determined that the weapon in question was a Tippmann M4 Carbine paintball gun, not a rifle, and there was no threat to the public. The man was taken into custody on an active warrant. No charges were filed in connection with the incident. Fairview Heights Police Department addressed misinformation circulating online about the call, noting that some posts are based solely on initial dispatch information heard over scanners and may not reflect the final outcome. The department urged the public to rely on official information released directly by the police for accurate updates.

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CHICAGO — An Illinois Lottery player has built the ultimate “rainy day fund” after a $10 Lotto play turned into a $1 million windfall. “I play the lottery once in a while when I have extra cash,” said the lucky winner, who has chosen to remain anonymous under the nickname Rainy Day Fund . “I hadn’t played in a while, but the jackpot was nearly $12 million, so after filling up my gas tank, I decided to buy $10 worth of Lotto tickets with the Extra Shot add-on.” That decision paid off. The Lotto ticket, purchased at the Citgo gas station at 8755 W. 79th Street in Justice, matched all six Lotto Million 1 numbers in the Thursday, July 10 drawing to win $1 million. The winner vividly recalled the moment they discovered their fortune, “I found out the next day at work that someone in Justice had won. That’s where I bought my ticket, so I scanned mine with the app. At first, I thought I had won $1,000. Then I scanned it again,

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EAST ST. LOUIS — A Belleville man has entered a guilty plea to setting a fire in a Lebanon gas station bathroom. Carlos A. Rodriguez, 33, admitted to one count of arson of real property used in interstate commerce in U.S. District Court in East St. Louis. The fire occurred on the evening of Sept. 10, 2018, at the CC Food Mart in Lebanon, IL. Rodriguez ignited a plastic air freshener mounted in the men’s restroom, then left the store. Approximately seven minutes later, customers and employees discovered smoke and an active fire. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Fire Research Laboratory conducted experiments using a replica of the restroom to confirm the fire’s origin and timing, ruling out other patrons who used the bathroom that evening. The blaze and firefighting efforts caused about $6,000 in damage. Rodriguez’s sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 7, 2026. Under federal law, arson of real property used in interstate commerce carrie

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EDWARDSVILLE — Eric M. Blumenstock, 38, has been charged with two felonies stemming from incidents at the Madison County Courthouse on Sept. 10, 2025. Blumenstock faces a Class X felony count of Making Terrorist Threats. Authorities allege he intended to create fear by stating he planned to “shoot up” the courthouse located at 200 N. Main St. in Edwardsville, which they say caused a reasonable expectation of an imminent terrorist act. In addition, Blumenstock is charged with a Class 3 felony count of Threatening a Public Official. Prosecutors say he knowingly conveyed a threat to Lt. Senci, a peace officer, verbally stating an intent to take the officer’s life. Under Illinois law, the charges cite statutes 720 ILCS 5/29D-20(a) for making terrorist threats and 720 ILCS 5/12-9(a)(1)(o) for threatening a public official. Blumenstock is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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HARDIN – Illinois American Water continues to make strategic improvements in the Village of Hardin’s water and wastewater systems that enhance customer service, water quality and system reliability. Illinois American Water has invested an estimated $2 million in the Village of Hardin water and wastewater systems since the company acquired the systems in June 2022. Hardin is a village and county seat of Calhoun County. It is located about 43 miles southwest of St. Louis, near Jerseyville. Water and wastewater services are provided to approximately 500 customers in the Village of Hardin. W ater System There have been noticeable improvements in the historic aesthetic discoloration issues in portions of the Hardin community’s water system. “We have received positive feedback from our customers in Hardin, particularly on water quality,” said Brendan St. Peters, Senior Supervisor of Operations, Illinois American Water. A major improvement

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EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County is now taking applications for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) starting next month. Madison County Community Development announced funding is available to assist income-eligible households with their natural gas, propane and/or electric bills and furnace assistance for inoperable heating systems. The program will begin by taking applications Oct. 1 for: Adults 60-year-old and older, Individuals with disabilities, Families with children under the age of six and Households that are disconnected from their utilities, have a disconnection notice or have less than 25% in their propane tank. All other income eligible households can start applying Nov. 1. Applications will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis through Aug. 15, 2026, or until funding is exhausted. Households that receive a one-time benefit may return during the program year for a Reconnection Assistance or Furnace Assistance benefit(s), if needed. T

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CHICAGO – Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined students, alumni, and administrators from the City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) at Harold Washington College to discuss the impact of heightened federal immigration enforcement efforts on community college students, particularly those with vulnerable legal status. With federal deployments growing in Chicago, the Governor spoke directly to the fears and needs of undocumented students, faculty, and staff navigating new challenges and uncertainty. “City Colleges is a tremendous example of an institution providing effective systems of support for immigrant students—especially as they are being targeted by the federal government in this turbulent time,” said Governor JB Pritzker . “Right now, our communities are facing genuine fear as Trump intensifies his federal deployments, and the State of Illinois remains committed to lifting up organizations and institutions that are helping people know their rights and providing

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – America’s Blood Centers (ABC), the national organization of community-based, independent blood centers that supply 60 percent of the nation’s blood, is marking Sickle Cell Awareness Month this September with a nationwide call for more diverse blood donors to meet the critical needs of patients living with sickle cell disease and other conditions requiring precisely matched blood. Donated blood from communities of color is essential for patients whose transfusion needs go beyond basic blood type matching. For individuals with sickle cell disease—an inherited blood disorder affecting about 100,000 people in the United States —regular blood transfusions are often the difference between crisis and survival. Yet, fewer than 12 percent of all U.S. blood donations today come from communities of color, even though one in every 365 African American births is affected by sickle cell disease. “Community blood centers are dedicated t

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METRO EAST ST. LOUIS – Governor JB Pritzker has signed Illinois House Bill 1910, a measure amending the Illinois Local Library Act to help combat the state’s opioid epidemic. Beginning January 1, 2026, all public libraries will be required to keep an opioid antagonist — such as naloxone (NARCAN®) — available at all times. The law also requires that libraries take reasonable steps to have at least one trained person present during operating hours who can recognize an opioid overdose and administer the medication. Under the Illinois Good Samaritan Act , library personnel who administer naloxone in good faith are protected from liability, helping ensure they can respond without hesitation during an emergency. To help libraries meet these requirements, Chestnut Health Systems™ offers free naloxone (NARCAN®) resources and training where attendees will: Learn about the opioid epidemic Learn when and why to administer naloxone Learn how to administer

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EAST ST. LOUIS – Weeks into the start of the new year, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Charter High School’s (CHS) New Director Kimberly Allen shares her vision, along with goals for students, faculty and the school. SIUE alumna Allen, who worked at the CHS for four years as a faculty associate for special education, has returned to the school with a wealth of knowledge. Allen earned a bachelor’s in special education in 2008 and a Master of Educational Administration in 2012, both from SIUE. The new administrator answered questions about her new role. What is your education expertise background? My expertise lies in both special education and educational administration, which has equipped me with a deep understanding of how to support diverse learners, while also leading school-wide initiatives that promote equity, achievement and organizational effectiveness. With experience and an educational background in both the public schoo

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