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SPRINGFIELD – Since the Illinois State Police (ISP) began conducting inspections of Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealers, the number of guns stolen from dealers has decreased. In 2024, the number of firearms stolen from FFL dealers in Illinois dropped almost 80% compared to 2023, and 92% compared to 2022. “Five years ago, I signed a bipartisan law to combat illegal gun trafficking—and the data ISP released today demonstrates that state oversight works,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Too many Illinoisans know the pain of gun violence and the added security measures enforced by ISP are ensuring that guns don’t fall into the wrong hands.” “Stemming the flow of stolen guns used in crime is one way we are fighting gun violence,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “Inspections, which ensure firearm dealers have security measures in place, reduces the number of guns stolen often later used to commit violence, and this effort

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Did you know that over 60% of travelers begin planning their trips months in advance? This statistic highlights the importance of thoughtful travel planning, especially when it comes to optimizing experiences and maximizing enjoyment. As spring approaches, many travelers are on the lookout for destinations that offer unique experiences, breathtaking scenery, and cultural richness. In this article, we will explore some of the top destinations that should be on every travel planner's radar this spring, providing insights and tips to help you make the most of your journey. Enchanting European Escapes 1. The Tulip Fields of the Netherlands One of the most iconic springtime images is that of tulip fields in full bloom across the Netherlands. The Keukenhof Gardens, located in Lisse, is the largest flower garden in the world, showcasing millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. The best time to visit is from mid-March to mid-May, when the flowers are at their peak. In addition to

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WOOD RIVER - The Alton Community Service League will host a Speakeasy: Swing Dance and Concert event to raise funds for their grant program. On Friday, Feb. 21, 2025, community members are invited to the Wood River Moose to enjoy a swing dance lesson, a concert by the Granite City Swing Band, raffles, specialty cocktails and more. Tickets cost $35 or $50 for VIP tickets, and all proceeds go to the Alton Community Service League (ACSL) grant program to support nonprofits in the Riverbend community. “It will be an experience, taking you back to the days of a speakeasy and Prohibition and that sound of a swing concert,” said Jill Moon, one of the fundraiser’s organizers. “It’s immersive and interactive.” Ticket prices include a complimentary dance lesson from Norma Kelly, who will teach attendees how to swing dance from 5–5:45 p.m. Following this, the Granite City Swing Band will provide music until 9 p.m. under the direction of Music

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January 23rd has witnessed significant events across various domains—from politics to science, and culture to sports. On January 23, 1849, Elizabeth Blackwell became the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States. Graduating from Geneva Medical College in New York, Blackwell faced immense challenges in a male-dominated field. Her determination not only paved the way for women in medicine but also inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in areas previously thought to be inaccessible. Today, Blackwell is remembered as a pioneer who broke barriers and championed the importance of women’s health. Fast forward to January 23, 1919, when the United States experienced a significant shift in its legal landscape with the establishment of Prohibition through the 18th Amendment. This amendment made the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages illegal. While the intention was to reduce crime and corruption, Prohibition led to the rise

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GRANITE CITY – The Granite City Fire Department responded to a commercial structure fire Thursday morning, Jan. 23, 2025, at the Chen Laser Institute, located at 4168 Nameoki Road. Firefighters arrived to find smoke coming from the building and quickly located the fire in the attic. Firefighters encountered delays in accessing water from a nearby fire hydrant but were able to utilize water from their trucks to initiate firefighting efforts until the hydrant was operational. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and no injuries have been reported. The Chen Laser Institute, founded by Dr. William H. Chen, DMD, is known for its pioneering work in laser dentistry, including the development of techniques for laser root canal therapy and bone applications. According to the institute's website, it is the only international organization dedicated to training and education in the Waterlase and LaserSmile wavelengths.

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(EDITOR'S NOTE: Mental Health Awareness Day is Jan. 23, 2025. This is a story reflecting on that day from an OSF-certified nurse midwife). As the stigma around mental health continues to improve, people are more likely to seek treatment. A woman who has just learned she’s pregnant may wonder: should I stop taking medicines like Zoloft or Prozac? Will they hurt my baby? Sarah Shoemaker , a certified nurse midwife at OSF HealthCare, says first of all, you’re not alone. She says around one in five women experience a mental health concern during pregnancy, and many of those women are taking medication for things like anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder. Shoemaker says most of the time, you can and should stay on your medication. But it’s a conversation you should have with your health care team. Shoemaker implores women to talk about medication with their provider early Ideally, it’s before they conceive. Shoemaker says don’t change or stop your medicin

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ALTON – With unanimous City Council approval, Alton is applying for federal funding for multiple street improvement projects throughout the city. The following sections of the following streets are set to be improved under the Illinois Highway Code: 0.32 miles of Milton Road from Edgewood Avenue to Hillcrest Avenue 0.9 miles of Belle Street from Rozier Street to 20th Street 0.5 miles of Fosterburg Road from IL Route 140/111 to Alton Commerce Parkway 0.19 miles Brown Street Sidewalk from Vernie Avenue to Rock Springs Drive The resolution approved on Wednesday involves the allocation of $27,000 in Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) funds for the city to pay application fees to the East West Gateway Council of Governments, as Alton is seeking $5.4 million in federal funds for these projects. This fee amount represents 0.5% of the federal funding requested. If no federal funding is awarded for any of the street projects, the city will be reimbursed the full $27,000. More details and

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COLLINSVILLE — The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis is seeking the public's assistance in identifying a suspect in a shooting that left a 32-year-old woman dead on Tuesday morning. Portia L. Rowland was shot around 6 a.m. on January 21, 2025, while she was warming her car in the 1300 block of Olive Street. Police believe the incident was a targeted attack, prompting the Collinsville Police Department to enlist the help of the Major Case Squad for the ongoing investigation. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the suspect remains unidentified. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the shooting or the suspect to contact the Major Case Squad at 618-344-2131 Ext. 5924. Individuals may also provide anonymous tips through CrimeStoppers at 866-371-8477.

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ALTON - After six months of robust community input, Alton Main Street is announcing its new Transformation Strategy of Fostering an Entrepreneurial and Collaborative Ecosystem. The organization is embarking on a bold new plan to continue the progress in Downtown Alton, with key initiatives including Supporting Small Businesses & Startups, Enhancing Active & Affordable Living, and Developing District Assets. Main Street America was founded in 1980 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in response to the decline of downtown areas across the nation. The program has expanded to include 1,600 communities, helping generate billions in local investment, create jobs, and improve quality of life. Alton became an accredited Main Street™ community in 1995, which was spearheaded by the City of Alton and the River Bend Growth Association, the area’s chamber of commerce. The rise of shopping malls, strip malls and suburban development was eroding traditional “city centers”

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EDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville Community Unit School District 7 will hold a Kindergarten Kickoff on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025, at each of its six primary schools, including Glen Carbon Elementary, Goshen Elementary, Hamel Elementary, Leclaire Elementary, Midway Elementary, and Nelson Elementary. The event will begin at 6 p.m. at each, except for Hamel, which will begin at 7:15 p.m. During the event, parents will learn about kindergarten in District 7, tour the building, and pre-register for the 2025-26 school year. Students are welcome to join their parents. Any family that is unsure of which building their future kindergartner will be attending, should reach out to the District 7 Central Office (618-656-1182) for assistance. Students must be 5 years old on or before September 1, 2025, to register for kindergarten for the 2025-26 school year.

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EDWARDSVILLE - EXO Lounge in Edwardsville invites the community to join their Lunar New Year celebration. At 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, EXO Lounge will mark Lunar New Year with the Chinese Lion Dance, food and drink specials, lucky $2 bills for the first 300 customers, and more fun perks. Owner Gina Gamblin is excited to engage with the community and usher in the Year of the Snake alongside her team members and guests. “When I asked about New Year’s Eve, they said, really, Lunar New Year is a bigger deal. I asked them to share more with me, and I had no idea,” Gamblin remembered. “We may never be there to celebrate in their community, but just immersing ourselves within their culture is beautiful and meaningful and an experience in itself.” Guests are encouraged to wear red to promote health, wealth and prosperity. Every technician will wear their own áo dài. The first 300 customers will receive a red envelope with a

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ALTON — Alton High School guard Kiyoko Proctor is making a very notable return to form after recovering from a knee injury that sidelined her at the beginning of the season. On Jan. 16, 2025, Proctor led her team to a significant victory over Edwardsville, contributing key plays, including critical three-point shots that helped secure the win. Proctor is an Auto Butler Female Athlete of the Month for the Redbirds. Proctor, who has committed to continue her basketball career at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, is now focused on leading the Redbirds as they approach the end of the regular season and postseason. Alton boasts a nearly perfect record of 20-1 and remains undefeated in conference play at 7-0. “I have worked hard to be where I used to be,” Proctor said. “It was hard to be on the bench with the injury, but I was still there and still trying to lead the team and still being captain.” Despite her absence from the court earlier in th

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It can cause panic for parents, but it doesn’t have to. Emily Isom is talking about head lice, something she sees often as a mother and a certified medical assistant in pediatrics at OSF HealthCare. The good news for parents: in most cases, your child doesn’t have to miss school and can be treated with over-the-counter remedies. Lice basics Isom says lice (the singular form is louse) are tiny insects that sit on your scalp. They typically spread when you share objects like a comb or hat or when you have head-to-head contact with someone. Itchiness is the primary symptom, and the infestation usually lasts seven to 10 days. “If someone ignores it, it can lead to infections and open sores,” Isom warns. “The insects are going to keep biting the same spot, and the person is going to keep scratching the spot.” The lice can also lay eggs and multiply, Isom says. Isom suggests parents and teachers be vigilant about lice. Check your child when they

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ALTON - To bring awareness, understanding, and advocacy to the LGBTQ+ community, with a specific emphasis on the youth in our community, Alton Pride offers scholarships to assist in furthering our awardees' education by attending a community college, trade school, or university. Applicants must be in their senior year of high school, volunteer at least 20 hours with Alton Pride or another non-profit community organization, submit a 300-word essay, and a completed application by January 31, 2025. Four Scholarships will be awarded in 2025 Roadecker “Roe” Watts Award - $1500 Well-known in Alton's LGBTQ+ community, Roe's former co-workers at JCPenney rallied to make a donation to Alton Pride to establish a scholarship in his memory. Debbie Paynic Award - $1000 Debbie was an early supporter of Alton Pride and a shining star in our community. To honor her memory, our Board of Directors voted unanimously to establish a scholarship in her name. Harvey Milk

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ALTON - Hank Ford has always been fascinated by eerie places. The photographer has worn many hats, from documentarian to social media manager. He relocated to Alton two years ago, where he is intrigued by ghost stories but not interested in horror movies. Instead, he has found a passion for liminal spaces and “the implied existence of humans” in his photography, now on display at Milton Schoolhouse. “There’s just something very visceral about seeing creepy things that aren’t Freddie or Jason chasing you with a knife,” Ford said. “I’m not interested in that kind of stuff. But this feeling, like maybe I shouldn’t be here, has always attracted me. Maybe it’s a childhood of sneaking into abandoned buildings and hanging out with your friends as a teenager. That space, as weird as it feels, may be comfortable to me.” For his 15th birthday, Ford’s father gifted him a camera. This began his journey of photography.

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COLLINSVILLE – A Collinsville man faces criminal charges in the latest case of defacing firearm identification marks filed in Madison County this year. Rodney J. De Los Santos Jr., 30, of Collinsville, was charged with possession of a weapon by a felon (a Class 3 felony), defacing identification marks of firearm (a Class 3 felony) and unlawful possession of methamphetamine (Class 3 felony). On Jan. 8, 2025, De Los Santos unlawfully possessed a Smith & Wesson SDV firearm “upon which the importer’s or manufacturer’s serial number had been removed,” according to court documents. His possession of the weapon was unlawful as he had previously been convicted of a felony, possession of a controlled substance, in Brazoria County, Texas. In this case, he was also charged with possession of less than 5 grams of methamphetamine. The Collinsville Police Department presented the case against De Los Santos, who currently remains in custody. This marks the second

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Gogh Getters present, Old Bones, Inc., a collaborative effort of art and the minds of Mark Regester and Andy Dykeman, an exhibition at Sacred Grounds Cafe in Edwardsville from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025. There will be give-aways and refreshments. Special musical guests will be providing entertainment. A spokesperson for Old Bones, Inc., says that this is “The Everything Must Go, Spectacular Savings, Priced To Move, Get It Before It's Gone, Buy Or Burn, Blow Out Sale." Old Bones, Inc. is a collaboration between self-taught artists Andy Dykeman and Mark Regester. Their work reflects the DIY values and aesthetics that come from spending formative years immersed in the punk rock scene. Skulls, UFOs, ghosts, spines, brains and fire are all common themes in their work with a healthy dose of writing and dark humor. https://www.instagram.com/oldbonesinc/ Mark was born in Scotland, raised in California and is a resident artist at 31art Gallery in St

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Initiative Revived to Combat Violence in East St. Louis and Beyond EAST ST. LOUIS/EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is one of many partners working with the 40 Days of Nonviolence and Beyond initiative in its ongoing mission to deter and ultimately eliminate violence in the East St. Louis area. The committee kicked off its campaign with a press conference, that included State Sen. Christopher Belt (D- 57th District), on Friday, Jan. 17 at the Clyde C. Jordan Senior Citizen Center in the East St. Louis Township. The initiative will run from Jan. 25 through March 4 and will include activities for students, ages 8-18, with SIUE Project Success , SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School , Lincoln Middle School, Black Greek letter organizations (Divine Nine) youth groups and more, according to Kimberly McClellan, of the 40 Days of Nonviolence and Beyond executive committee, president of the SIUE Professional Staff Association, SIUE Head Start teacher

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During the past year, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine has been quietly refining its latest innovation in medical education: a virtual patient simulation that uses artificial intelligence (AI). The virtual patient uses AI to help students hone their communication and interpersonal skills in a safe online environment. The program pairs sophisticated rendering technology with real human case studies. Dr. Richard Selinfreund, associate professor at SIU, spearheaded the project in response to student feedback about outdated virtual training software. He enlisted the help of the medical students, faculty and SIU’s Digital Humanities Lab in Carbondale, led by Professor Pinckney Benedict. Together, the team created Randy Rhodes, a computerized patient capable of realistic, ever-changing interactions. The patient can simulate various health conditions, personalities and challenging scenarios, which the students navigate through dialogue. As a learner progresses through

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Discover an exciting array of events happening in the area, showcasing everything from live music performances to community celebrations, offering something for everyone to enjoy. For a full listing of events, be sure to visit RiverBender Events . If you want to make sure even more of the region is aware of your event email cj@riverbender.com and explore our range of Event Promotion Services! Featured Join the American Red Cross and the NFL for a life-saving opportunity at the Red Cross and NFL Blood Drive hosted at Delhi Baptist Church on January 24, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Delhi Baptist Church, 18151 Church Lane, Jerseyville, IL. This event invites football fans and donors to contribute during National Blood Donor Month and enter for a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. Blood is a perishable resource, and your donation could provide someone with a second chance at life. Kick off the new year with community spirit at the Monthly Bloc

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