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ALTON - Sparks Junk Removal & Hauling has had a rough month after a car crashed into the building , but owner Denise Sparks promises the company is still thriving. “Dude, we are busy. I love it, though,” Sparks said. “I listen to what needs are, and I try to deliver.” Sparks spoke candidly about “the unexpected drive-thru service” at her building, located at 2201 E. Broadway in Alton. She thanked the police department, fire department and Fred’s Towing for their quick response, as well as contractor Paul Yost with Tycon Builders. Sparks also noted her gratitude that no one was hurt or killed. She said that while this is a challenging time for the business, they are still going strong. “It’ll be behind us soon,” she added. “I’m still shocked about it. But you know what, I was always taught things happen for a reason. And I’m really digging down deep to try to figure out what that reason is.”

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ALTON – Staci Knox, LCSW, manager, Psychological Services, OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center, was recently elected to serve a two-year term on the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) – Illinois Chapter board of directors. Knox’s successful election to the nine-person board of directors officially began July 1 and runs through June 30, 2026. In addition to her term on the Illinois Chapter’s board of directors, Knox will simultaneously serve as chairperson of the Southern (IL) District representing a 12-county region encompassing Alexander, Madison, Monroe, St. Clair, Randolph, Bond, Clay, Clinton, Edwards, Fayette, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Lawrence, Marion, Massac, Perry, Pope, Pulaski, Richland, Saline, Union, Wabash, Washington, Wayne, White, and Williamson. “It is an honor and privilege to be able to participate and engage with other social workers while developing leadership skills

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ALTON - The Hayner Public Library District will host an “American Gothic” lecture by Dee Kilgo, Ph.D. on Wednesday, October 2, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Hayner Performance Room at Alton Square Mall. On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Professor Dee Kilgo will present “ American Gothic : The Art and Politics of America’s Most Famous Painting” at the Hayner Performance Room at Alton Square Mall. Grant Wood’s American Gothic painting is one of the world’s most famous and most parodied artworks. Despite its iconic status in popular culture, few people know the incredible story behind the creation and politics of this work. Professor Kilgo’s lecture tells how and why Wood created this painting and what prompted its meteoric rise to fame in 1930. Alton native Dee (Dolores) Kilgo, Ph.D., is a Professor Emerita of Art History at Illinois State University. She has authored two books, a PBS documentary, and

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EDWARDSVILLE - Get ready to “Rock the Quad” as COUGARFEST returns to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Homecoming & Family Weekend, promising an even bigger and better event for its second year. The fun begins at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 4, on the Stratton Quad, offering live music, family-friendly activities and a food truck festival — all for free. COUGARFEST aims to unite the SIUE community, alumni, students andlocal residents in a celebration of Cougar Nation. The evening promises to be an unforgettable experience for all. “COUGARFEST was inspired by a desire to create a high-energy, inclusive event that brings together SIUE alumni, students, and community members to celebrate the start of Homecoming & Family Weekend,” said Cathy Taylor, ’15, Associate Vice Chancellor for University Advancement and executive director of Alumni and Donor Relations. “The event serves as an exciting way to build school spirit, reconnect alumni

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GRANITE CITY – State Representative Amy Elik is offering a FREE Shred Day in Granite City! Paper documents will be accepted for safe and secure destruction. Cardboard boxes used to transport documents will be returned to each person. The shredding company will accept a maximum of two bankers’ boxes per person. “I’m pleased to bring this free event to Grantie City,” Rep. Elik stated. “I hope that residents will take this opportunity to get rid of some documents you’ve been holding on to that need secure disposal. See you in Granite!” Event details are as follows: Saturday, October 5 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Lot Next to GCUSD #9 District Office 2450 Stratford Lane, Granite City To participate, simply drive to the location where staff will be there to assist. Questions can be directed to Rep. Elik’s office at elik@ilhousegop.org or 618-433-8046.

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SOUTH ROXANA - The South Roxana Police Department is seeking the public’s help in locating Joselyn Luckinbill, a 15-year-old student from Roxana High School, who was reported missing on Sept. 24, 2024. Joselyn was last seen at her home in South Roxana, Illinois. Joselyn is described as 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing 160 pounds, with pink hair and blue eyes. She does not have a cellphone, and there is no available information on the clothing she was wearing at the time of her disappearance. Authorities have noted that Joselyn has no known medical conditions that require medication. It is also unclear whether she was traveling with anyone when she went missing. The South Roxana Police Department urges anyone with information about Joselyn’s whereabouts to contact them at (618) 254-7460. Alternatively, individuals can visit the department in person at 211 Sinclair Ave., South Roxana, IL., 62087. The police department and Joselyn's family are appealing to the community to

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Today, we take a trip down memory lane to revisit some of the most significant events that took place on September 24th throughout history. The Launch of the Little Rock Nine (1957) On September 24, 1957, nine African American students, known as the Little Rock Nine, made history by integrating Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. This courageous act was a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. The students faced immense hostility and resistance, but their bravery paved the way for desegregation in schools across the country. Their actions highlighted the importance of education and equality, leaving a lasting legacy in the fight for civil rights. The First Transatlantic Telephone Cable (1956) Another remarkable event that took place on this day was the inauguration of the first transatlantic telephone cable on September 24, 1956. This technological milestone revolutionized global communication by providing a direct phone line between

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ALTON — The Alton Police Department has issued a traffic advisory for drivers due to ongoing road construction on U.S. Route 67 between 10th Street and Godfrey Road. The advisory, released Monday, Sept. 23, 2024, urges motorists to expect delays and plan their routes accordingly. The Illinois Department of Transportation is overseeing the construction, which aims to improve road conditions and enhance safety for all users. The Alton Police Department emphasizes the importance of driving cautiously and obeying all posted signs and directions from construction personnel. "Everyone's safety is our priority," the Alton Police Department stated. Police officers will be present in the area to monitor traffic and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Motorists are also reminded to refrain from using cell phones while driving, as this will be strictly enforced by law enforcement officials.

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BENTON – A Florida woman was sentenced to three years in prison by a Southern Illinois judge after admitting to scamming her Cahokia Heights grandmother out of more than $300,000. Tanya M. Aboseada, 39, of Pompano Beach, Fla., pleaded guilty to 12 counts of wire fraud in May 2024. “Seniors are warned to avoid giving money to strangers who may be looking to take advantage of them, but it’s a different kind of deceit when criminals target their own elderly family members,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “I appreciate our partnership with the FBI to bring justice for the grandmother, who was simply wanting to help her grandchild she thought was in need.” According to court documents, Aboseada convinced her grandmother, who resides in Cahokia Heights, Illinois, to wire money into her bank account under false pretenses on at least 12 occasions between November 2021 and August 2022. Aboseada admitted to lying about various needs, including

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MADISON COUNTY – State Senator Erica Harriss has once again teamed up with the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office for two ICASH events this fall which could help Illinoisans find and claim money owed to them. “This event is a great opportunity for residents to find out if there is any money out there owed to them,” said Senator Harriss. “Last year, a constituent of mine was awarded more than $15,000 through this state program. After finding much success in this event, we knew we needed to bring it back for residents of the Metro East.” The first event will be held on Monday, September 30, 2024, from 1PM-4PM in council chambers at Alton City Hall (101 East 3rd Street, Alton, IL). The second event will be held Wednesday, October 2, 2024, from 1PM-4PM at the Caseyville Community Center (909 South Maine Street, Caseyville, IL). Registration for each event is not required. For more information or questions, please contact Amanda Brown at abrown@sgop.ilga.gov

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For the last half of the 20th century, no voice captured the essence of the American spirit better than Paul Harvey. It’s been 15 years since his passing, and it’s easy to forget that he reached 24 million Americans each week on the radio and in newspapers. But what drew people to Harvey wasn’t just his humor or wit—it was his love of celebrating everyday heroes. In November 1978, Harvey stood before the Future Farmers of America convention in Kansas City, Missouri, and delivered a speech that has echoed through the generations: “So God Made a Farmer.” In that speech, Harvey did more than recount the creation story. He reminded us all that when God looked down on the world He’d made, He saw the need for a caretaker —someone to tend to the land, someone with patience and strength. And so, God made a farmer. Harvey wasn’t just sharing a perspective on faith; he was capturing the heart of what it means to be a farmer. These men and

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Municipal League (IML) elected officers and members to its Board of Directors at its Annual Business Meeting, held September 21st, as part of the 111th IML Annual Conference at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. The IML membership unanimously elected Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen, City of Champaign, to serve a one-year term as President. Also elected during the conference were Village President Sheila Chalmers-Currin, Village of Matteson, as First Vice President, and Mayor Gary W. Manier, City of Washington, as Second Vice President. In addition to the officers, 36 Vice Presidents were elected to serve a one-year term, and eight IML Past Presidents continue to serve on the statewide organization’s Board of Directors. Village of Godfrey Mayor Mike McCormick was re-elected to serve as a Vice President. “Strength lies in unity, and Illinois mayors exemplify this principle as we collaborate to build stronger communities and drive positive transformation

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ALTON - As a religious Sister with a biomedical engineering degree, Sister M. Pieta Keller, F.S.G.M., is no stranger to saving lives. Sister M. Pieta is a Sister of the St. Francis of the Martyr St. George Convent based in Alton. She works with the Jump Simulation and Education Center in Peoria as a biomedical engineer on their innovation team. She has developed many technological advancements that have saved and improved the lives of over 500 patients. “Before I entered , I got a biomedical engineering degree, and in God’s providence, I actually use it,” Sister M. Pieta said. “I truly feel that God has placed me here and led me to choose a field that allows me to pursue my love of engineering, in addition to answering His call to serve Him, combining to positively affect people’s lives every day.” After graduating from Purdue University with a degree in biomedical engineering, Sister M. Pieta joined the Sisterhood in 2013. She has worked

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GODFREY – Community service and leading with positivity are two traits that Crystal Officer will always be known for at Beverly Farm Foundation. Officer is a definite "Difference Maker" for her area with her work at Beverly Farm and beyond. Officer was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer at Beverly Farm in June 2021. She is known as a supervisor who makes everyone around her feel like they can make a difference every day. She has been extremely creative and innovative in her work with the Beverly Farm Foundation and residents. Crystal said at Beverly Farm Foundation the most important part of the operation is they "value people." "Equipping and supporting our team members to grow both professionally and personally is an important part of our daily work," she said. "I would like to thank the team and residents of Beverly Farm for their dedicated efforts and support, and God for His enabling grace, strength, and love.” Officer previously served as Senior Vice President

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BELLEVILLE — Several Belleville East High School students spent their Saturday morning volunteering at the St. Vincent De Paul (SVDP) Cathedral, serving breakfast to over 100 homeless individuals in the community. The event took place at the Cathedral School Cafe, where the students dedicated four hours to cooking, serving, cleaning, and greeting guests with smiles. Their efforts were part of a weekly initiative by SVDP Cathedral, which aims to provide food, spiritual and financial aid, and clothing to those in need in the Belleville area. According to school officials, the student’s participation exemplifies the spirit of community service and the positive impact young people can have on their surroundings. The SVDP Cathedral's Saturday breakfast program has become a crucial resource for the local population in need, offering not just nourishment but also a sense of community and support.

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ST. LOUIS - Ramon A. Chavez Rodriguez, 24, has been charged with a DWI (Death of Law Enforcement or Emergency Personnel, Exceeding the Posted Speed Limit and Operating A Vehicle On A Highway Without a Valid License) in the case where St. Louis Police Officer David Lee was hit on Interstate 70 on Sunday, then later died. The official charges came a day after Lee died after being struck on I-70. The charges said Chavez-Rodriguez was driving at least 71 miles per hour five seconds before the accident. The speed limit in that area was 55 mph. St. Louis Police said Chavez-Rodriguez lost control while driving and pinned Officer Lee between two vehicles. Lee was also tossed several feet in the accident. The suspect is a Honduran national and is an illegal immigrant and was on probation for a domestic incident. Police added that the blood draw for Chavez-Rodriguez occurred about two hours after Officer Lee was struck.

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EDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville High School’s Drama Club welcomed the Jewish Community Relations Council so students could learn more about Jewish culture and religion ahead of their fall play. The EHS Drama Club will produce “Letters to Sala” on Nov. 8 and 9, 2024. This play tells the true story of a young girl who survived seven labor camps in five years during the Holocaust. On Sept. 18, 2024, the club spoke with teenagers from the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC). “That element of being able to connect to real people, it’s not just a two-dimensional page in a play. I think it makes it more meaningful, more purposeful,” explained Ashley Melton, theater director. “One of the things with selecting a show that’s this heavy is making sure that there’s some reasoning behind selecting it, not just, ‘Let’s do something dramatic because we want to show our acting chops,’ but, ‘Let’s do something

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EDWARDSVILLE - Individuals interested in continuing their education at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville are invited to attend one of its virtual Open House events on Thursdays this October. "Graduate programs at SIUE are designed with the student in mind,” said Jill Smucker, director of graduate education. “Whether a prospective student is considering one of our online or in-person programs, they will discover an exceptional educational experience.” The SIUE Graduate School offers than 150 master’s programs, post-baccalaureate certificates, doctoral degrees and cooperative doctoral programs in areas ranging from business to pharmacy to health and human behavior. The graduate programs offered at SIUE allow for personalized attention from engaging faculty and extensive campus resources that support student success. The one-hour Open House sessions will be hosted via Zoom at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. CST on the following dates: October 3: School of Busines

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ALTON – The Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) office at Alton Memorial Hospital is again taking appointments for Medicare open enrollment this year. The SHIP office, sponsored by Medicare and the Illinois Department on Aging, is located in Room G-367 on the ground floor of the hospital’s Hatch Wing. Clients who have registered for an in-person meeting should park on the back side of the hospital near the aqua awning that reads “Hatch Building.” Once entering there, the Oasis/SHIP counseling office is the first office on the left. The SHIP office provides free, confidential and unbiased counseling for all Medicare beneficiaries. Counseling is available for all Medicare-related questions, including: Enrolling in Medicare Medicare supplement plans Medicare Advantage plans Medicare drug plans SHIP serves people who are nearing Medicare eligibility and those wanting to review their coverage during the annual Medicare Open Enrollment period, which runs

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ALTON - On the most recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust, guest Stacy Roach talked about trusting God through difficult times. Roach understands the instinct to question God when you’re struggling. But she encourages people to trust in His decisions. It can be difficult to understand the reasons behind a challenging situation, but she believes that God always has a reason. “Sometimes you question God, but there’s not really a reason to question Him. Sometimes you just got to keep thinking and praying and keep focusing on it,” she said. “Don’t ever question Him. Sometimes it’s not what you think it is with Him. Just keep praying, keep focusing, and just keep giving all praise to Him and talking to Him about what’s going on. He’ll make it all work out when it’s supposed to work out.” Roach shared that she lost her grandmother a year ago, and it was a challenge for her family.

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