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MATTOON - First Mid Bancshares, Inc. (First Mid) is proud to announce it has been named a Top Workplaces Industry Award recipient for the second consecutive year. This honor, awarded by Energage, underscores the company's commitment to fostering a positive, dynamic, and inclusive workplace culture. Energage’s confidential, research-backed employee engagement survey determines the Top Workplaces awards. Participating companies are measured against the industry’s most comprehensive benchmarks, built upon 18 years of culture research spanning millions of employees and thousands of organizations nationwide. Top Workplaces awards are based on anonymous employee feedback gathered through the survey, which measures several aspects of workplace culture, including alignment, execution, and connection, to name a few. This consecutive win is a testament to First Mid’s dedication to its employees' well-being, development, and satisfaction. “Receiving this honor for the second

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SPRINGFIELD — A Casey's at 440 Edwardsville Road, Troy, will be one of the first four electric vehicle charging stations under the Illinois EPA's Driving a Cleaner Illinois program. The Casey's electric charging grantee award has been issued to Francis Energy. Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Interim Director James Jennings today announced the opening of all four electric vehicle (EV) charging sites under the Illinois EPA's Driving a Cleaner Illinois program on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024. The 16 charging ports at four charging sites are located at gas stations in Beach Park (Lake County), Le Roy (McLean County), South Beloit (Winnebago County), and Troy (Madison County). The new sites represent the first of more than 2,600 public DC fast charge and Level 2 ports the Illinois EPA plans to deploy across the State. “Here in Illinois, we are excited to continue the build-out of our electric vehicle charging network to support the transition to zero-emission

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GRANITE CITY — A new attraction on Route 66 promises to illuminate Granite City's night skies Thursday evening. The It’s Electric Neon Sign Park will hold a ribbon-cutting and lighting ceremony from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, at the park located at the corner of 19th St. and Delmar in downtown Granite City. The park, funded by a $500,000 grant from the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau and the Illinois Office of Tourism, aims to draw both locals and tourists to the historic Route 66 corridor. The lights are scheduled to turn on at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Thursday. “This project has been a labor of love for everyone involved,” said Cory Jobe, of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau. “We’re excited to see how it will bring new energy and visitors to Granite City.” The event is expected to feature a variety of neon signs that harken back to the mid-20th century, offering a nostalgic experience for attendees. The lighting ceremony

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GODFREY – Ray Morales, a well-known figure in the Alton area, has been named the new general manager of the Rolling Hills Golf Course in Godfrey. Morales, an Alton native with 30 years of golfing experience, is also a member of the Alton Golf Hall of Fame. Morales, who has played on over 100 golf courses and participates in 20 to 30 tournaments annually, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. In addition to his golfing accomplishments, he owned Morales Tacos, a popular local taco truck. "I want to bring this golf course back to the friendliest golf course around," Morales said. "There was a time I was out here playing, and it was a warm feeling, and everyone enjoyed being here. I want to bring that back. I want it to be family-friendly." Morales's best round of golf was at the Spencer T. Olin Golf Course in Alton, where he shot a two-over-par 74 for 18 holes. Despite his extensive experience playing various courses, Olin remains his favorite. "It's been an honor to

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Discover a wide variety of exciting and appealing events happening in the region, from family-friendly activities to vibrant community celebrations such as The Village of Alhambra's 175th Anniversary Celebration & Homecoming. For a full listing of events, be sure to visit Riverbender Events and find something that piques your interest! 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 ABLAZE: Encounter the presence of God invites you to join a series of free countywide events that focus on live music, powerful stories of hope, and individual prayer. Services take place on Friday and Saturday nights, with Friday's event held at the Edwardsville City Park Pavilion #1 and Saturday's service at Wilson Park's Centennial Pavilion. The summer series culminates at the Alton Amphitheater on Sunday. Worship music will be provided by local church teams, and Dr. Kristi Lemley will

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BETHALTO — Emergency responders handled a call to the southbound lanes of Illinois Route-255 at Airline Drive overpass Wednesday night following a motorcycle accident. The Bethalto Fire Department, Bethalto Police Department, and Illinois State Police arrived at the scene to find a motorcycle that had crashed. At least one individual was transported to a nearby hospital, although the extent of the injuries remains unknown. It is also unclear if there were any additional patients involved in the incident. The Bethalto Police Department is currently investigating the accident. Further details are expected to be released as the investigation continues.

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GODFREY - Lewis and Clark Community College student Emma McCormick was crowned Miss Jersey County 2024 at the Jersey County Fair in Jerseyville this summer. McCormick was chosen from among seven contestants to reign as "queen" until next year's pageant. She recently graduated from Jersey Community High School with dual credit from Lewis and Clark and plans to continue her education at the college this fall. "The Miss Jersey County Pageant is an experience I want every girl to go through," McCormick said. "I gained confidence and best friends and had the best time of my life." McCormick's older sister Aubrey won the title of Miss Jersey County back in 2021. McCormick said she witnessed her sister's incredible experience and how it shaped her as an individual. "Being Miss Jersey County has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl," McCormick said. "I am so grateful I get to live it out." McCormick's duties as Miss Jersey County include visiting other county fairs and pageants

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GRAFTON — With an appearance by Warren Gohl, the chaplain for the National Memorial of Military Ascent, Grafton officials had to move to a larger venue to accommodate a large amount of attendees. Gohl is revered for his contributions to not only Native Americans, but war veterans and the improvement of the mental health of prison inmates. Gohl and Grafton Mayor Mike Morrow met at a conference and discovered both men were coveted Bronze Star holders. The duo immediately shared a unique bond formed during their service and solidified through their shared mission. Gohl is a Vietnam vet, while Morrow served in Dessert Storm and was a long-time military veteran who also was a key member of the Corps of Engineers team. "We are both spiritual men," said Morrow. "I believe our project is God’s project, just moving it forward to honor all veterans." Gohl, a Vietnam War veteran and former interrogator with the 25th Infantry Division, described how their paths crossed. "I met

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JERSEYVILLE - Pitcher Gavin Ipanis threw a no-hitter, striking out seven, while Kadin Carlisle had three RBIs as the Alton Post 126 under-16 red American Legion baseball team concluded its season as Illinois state champions in the 7-0 win over host Jerseyville Post 492 in the finals of the state tournament Sunday afternoon at Jersey Community Middle School in Jerseyville. The boys are Auto Butler Male Athletes of the Month for Alton. The win finished a tremendously successful season for the junior Legionnaires, who also won the District 22 and Fifth Division titles on their way to the state championship over the hosts, who defeated Harrisburg in the losers bracket final to advance to Sunday's final. "What a game on the mound from Gavin Ipanis," said Post 126 manager Doug Booten. "To throw a no-hitter in the championship game, it's just phenomenal. But this group is so special It was a whole team effort all summer. I'm so proud of them." Post 126 scored the only two runs they

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BELLEVILLE - St. Clair County’s Sheriff’s Office has announced an arrest in a criminal sexual assault case. The Sheriff’s Office said on July 29, 2024, it responded to St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon in reference to a criminal sexual assault. “Upon arrival, the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Deputy spoke with the victim’s parents, who said their daughter had possibly been sexually assaulted. After the initial report, the St. Clark County Sheriff’s Department investigators began their investigation. With the help of St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department investigators were able to submit for criminal charges on Richard H. Hay, 41. Hay is currently in custody." “While the St. Clair County Sheriff’s investigators were investigating the incident, there were several other victims that came forward about the subject,” the St. Clair Sheriff’s Department said. “The

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O'FALLON - At approximately 6:30 a.m. on Monday, O’Fallon EMS and Police responded to a 911 call reporting a stabbing incident in the 600 Block of White Oak. Upon arrival, first responders found a 19-year-old woman with a single stab wound to her neck, resulting in significant blood loss. She was immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment. Officers on the scene determined that the victim had been involved in an altercation with her boyfriend, 20-year-old Havion A. Treadwell, when the stabbing occurred. Treadwell fled the scene on foot before officers arrived. A short time later, Treadwell was located walking along W. Highway 50 near I-64. He was apprehended after a brief foot chase and taken into custody. The results of the investigation were presented to the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office. On Tuesday, Treadwell was charged with one count of Attempted First Degree Murder and one count of Aggravated Domestic Battery. He is currently

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Madison County Clerk’s Office announces National Poll Worker Recruitment Day, a national day of action, established by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) in 2020 to inspire civic engagement and encourage people to sign up to become a poll worker. On August 1, 2024, National Poll Worker Recruitment Day aims to address the continued need for poll workers to sign up ahead of the general election in November to #HelpAmericaVote and strengthen our democratic Republic. The Clerk’s Office has recently created an ad to recruit poll workers that will display over social media and other outlets in the next months. Madison County Clerk Linda Andreas said watch the display and share it. Contact information is provided in the ad, however, you can sign up now by using the Madison County Clerk’s webpage at: www.madisoncountyil.gov/departments/county_clerk/elections/election_judges

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EDWARDSVILLE - A man who was initially charged with Falsely Making A Terrorist Threat and Cyberstalking has been sentenced. The man - Richard K. Schneidewind, 41, of Troy, IL., was sentenced to one Class 1 felony after threats of bombing Granite City High School. The dates of the criminal actions were March 31, 2024, and April 2, 2024. In Madison County Court, Schneidewind was sentenced to four years probation. Part of his sentence is also a mental health evaluation and then any recommended treatment. Schneidewind is also instructed to not go on any property of the Granite City School District.

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ALTON - Hemlock for Socrates (Pittsburgh) and (Chicago) are visiting Alton to play live at The Conservatory on Aug. 9, 2024 as part of their Summer Tour July-August 2024. The bands join St. Louis’s Daydreamer and Four Degrees Colder for the Alton Conservatory show. A double-billing of dark, dissonant duos, Hemlock for Socrates (Pittsburgh, PA) and (Chicago, IL) have announced their Summer Tour for July-August 2024, foreshadowed by the release of two brand-new singles and music videos: ‘ You’re Not Here ’ by Hemlock for Socrates, and ‘ blacklist ’ by . The Hemlock for Socrates / Summer Tour kicks off in Louisville, Kentucky on July 26, before taking in dates mainly across the US Midwest (Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, Illinois); wrapping up with two homecoming shows in Chicago and Pittsburgh on Aug. 10 and 11, 2024. Hemlock for Socrates is the moody, danceable electronic art-rock partnership of Heather Shore and

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CHICAGO — Today Governor JB Pritzker, joined by legislators and organized labor leaders, signed SB3649 into law. “ In Illinois, we respect the rights and dignity of workers,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We will never stop fighting for an Illinois where every worker is given the dignity and respect they deserve.” Governor Pritzker has been a staunch supporter of organized labor and worker’s rights since he first took office in 2019. In his first days in office, the Governor issued executive orders requiring Project Labor Agreements and a prevailing wage on all public projects. Illinois also enshrined the first Worker’s Rights Amendment in the nation as a result of a 2022 ballot initiative supported by the Governor. Cornerstone legislation proposed by Governor Pritzker, including Rebuild Illinois and the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, has maintained a focus on ensuring workers are protected and given the opportunity for well-paying,

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ST. LOUIS – The City of St. Louis has begun the process of bringing back food vendors to two of its busiest government buildings; City Hall and 1520 Market St. The Comptroller’s Office is currently seeking proposals from vendors, ideally bringing multiple vendors into each space for a food hall experience similar to those that can be found on many college campuses. The City would also strongly consider one operator capable of delivering a food court experience with a variety of offerings. Proposals for creative concepts are encouraged. “We have a combined 1,000 City employees working in these two downtown buildings, and we want to keep them here and attract even more so we can deliver the best possible services for St. Louis residents. Having quality food options in two of our busiest buildings will help us do just that,” said Mayor Tishaura O. Jones. “St. Louis punches above its weight in many areas, including our incredible food scene. Whether there’s

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CASEYVILLE/ROXANA - A string of vandalism incidents targeting a local telecommunications provider's fiber optic network has led to significant disruptions in communications services across several areas, impacting both residents and critical emergency services. The incidents, occurring over the past few months, have affected St. Louis, MO.; Cahokia, Roxana, Caseyville and Madison. The vandals have repeatedly cut through fiber optic cables, causing widespread service interruptions. These acts have typically occurred during late evening hours, although a recent incident occurred in the early afternoon along a bike path with accessible utility poles. The telecommunications company is collaborating with local authorities to investigate the vandalism. In an effort to identify those responsible, the company is offering a reward in coordination with the St. Louis Regional Crime Stoppers. A Crime Stoppers Reward of up to $2,000 is available for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators,

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PIASA - Marcus Payne, a standout pitcher for Southwestern High, concluded his 2024 season with an impressive 10-1 record on the mound and also batted .291 with 30 hits and 17 RBIs. Payne is an Altonized Community Federal Credit Union Male Athlete of the Month for the Piasa Birds. Payne's achievements have earned him first-team all-conference honors and a commitment to pitch for Lewis and Clark Community College. "Marcus was the heart and soul of our pitching staff," said Ryan Hanslow, Southwestern's head baseball coach. "He went 4-0 in conference games, and he also played second and third base for us." Payne's career at Southwestern includes 22 wins, making him the second-winningest pitcher in the school's history. His success is attributed to his remarkable strikeout-to-walk ratio, striking out 62 batters while walking only nine in 65 innings. His overall ERA stood at a stellar 0.75. "He pitched every big game for us and did some great things for us," Hanslow added. Again, congrats

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JERSEYVILLE - Several Jersey Community High School seniors were awarded scholarships earlier this spring at the District 100 Foundation’s 22nd Annual Scholarship Luncheon at First United Methodist Church in Jerseyville on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. 51 JCHS seniors were presented with District 100 Foundation Scholarships, while 16 other scholarships were awarded to 37 more seniors. Award recipients were joined by family members and other attendees including scholarship presenters, donors, District 100 administrators, staff and board members, as well as District 100 Foundation directors. The following scholarships were awarded to the following recipients: District 100 Foundation Scholarships (Pictured above) Clay East, Peyton Shanks-Goetten, Luke Fink, Kennedy Berghoff, Caleb Fraley, Kennedy Bizaillion, Isaac Beavers, Emily Collins, Wade Goetten, Tessa Crawford, Keegan Griffith, Skylar Crull, Khloee Hall, Erika Davis, Dagen Heafner, Katie Deist, Easton Heafner, Vivia

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GRAFTON — The Grafton Art Gallery is set to launch a series of art classes and workshops, starting with the "Rules of Abstract Art Workshop" from 3 to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024, led by Tom Dailey. This inaugural session has a limited number of seats remaining for those eager to delve into the world of abstract art. The workshop aims to provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of abstract art, including its historical context and practical techniques. Participants will explore a variety of topics, such as the history of Abstract Expressionism, design and composition inspiration, color and scale, and cost-saving tips and techniques. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to create up to three original works and present their creations. Tom Dailey, known for his focus on abstract expressionism, will lead the workshop. Dailey's approach emphasizes the importance of color, texture, and scale in creating contemplative pieces. "I believe that a painting

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