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GODFREY - Lewis and Clark Community College will once again host the Always Late TV Movie Awards. On March 22 and 23, 2025, community members can enjoy film screenings, improv shows, a red carpet and an award ceremony. The annual festival encourages people to view and celebrate independent films from around the world. “Basically, we celebrate the excellence of independent filmmakers who don’t have that damn Hollywood budget,” said Bella, one of the organizers. “They cannot make these movies for $3 million, $4 million. They don’t have the same opportunity as a lot of people. However, they still put in the work. They still put in the hours. And they make a great film. I have seen so many, not even from America, from all about the world. It is amazing.” Organizers Bella and Cat explained that there were 202 films submitted from 33 countries, and people from Italy, Germany, Australia and beyond will be in attendance at the festival. From

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC)—and U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) issued the following statement slamming Senate Republicans for voting against an amendment version of their Protect Veteran Jobs Act —legislation that would reinstate Veterans who were fired from their jobs as part of Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s indiscriminate purge of federal employees: “Senate Republicans love to say they support our nation’s Veterans on Fox News, but every single one of them just voted against giving our heroes their jobs back,” said Senators Duckworth and Kim. “Donald Trump and Elon Musk are firing more Veterans than any Administration in modern history, and now Senate Republicans are on the record supporting their stunningly cruel betrayal of thousands of men and women who served in uniform and chose to continue serving their country i

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GODFREY - Beverly Farm Foundation is proud to announce that Crystal Officer, Chief Executive Officer, has been named one of the “Top 100 St. Louisans to Know to Succeed in Business” by St. Louis Small Business Monthly (SBM). Officer, along with other honorees, will be recognized in the publication’s April 2025 issue and at a special awards luncheon on April 8, 2025. The annual Top 100 St. Louisans to Know list recognizes key executives, financiers, notable achievers, connectors, and other influential business and community leaders who make significant contributions to the regional business landscape. A panel of community leaders selects honorees based on their impact and dedication to fostering business success and community growth in the St. Louis region. Crystal Officer has served as CEO of Beverly Farm Foundation since June 2021, leading the organization in its mission to provide innovative and compassionate care for individuals with developmental and intellectuals

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ALTON - On Friday, April 11, 2025, the Wellness Center at Senior Services Plus, located at 2603 N. Rodgers Ave. in Alton, will host the Raise a Glove health fair focused on Parkinson’s disease awareness and support. From 3 to 5:30 p.m., attendees will have the opportunity to visit information tables staffed by healthcare professionals, explore resources for caregivers and individuals managing Parkinson's, connect with local support networks, and learn more about SSP’s Rock Steady Boxing program. During the event, we will also recognize participants of the Rock Steady Boxing program for their hard work and dedication to fighting back against Parkinson's disease. SSP Wellness Center is the Alton Affiliate of Rock Steady Boxing, which is an international 501(c) program dedicated to helping those with Parkinson's. With the guidance of trained and certified coaches, members of the program participate in non-contact boxing drills, strength training, coordination and balance

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ALTON - Alton Memorial Hospital will host free monthly skin cancer screenings. Starting on March 25, 2025, community members can stop by AMH for a free screening by a nurse practitioner specializing in plastic and reconstructive surgery. AMH, in partnership with Washington University Physicians of Illinois, Inc., will host these free screenings throughout the rest of the year. Lorraine Seiffert with Washington University Physicians in Illinois, Inc. explained the importance of regular screenings. “I think people are intimidated by the screening. They think maybe machines or whatever, blood tests. But it’s very simple,” Seiffert said. “It’s just as important as making sure you see your dentist every six months or having any other type of screening.” Seiffert explained that the screenings just take a few minutes. She will visually examine exposed skin or any lesions of concern. If she spots anything that looks concerning, she and the patient

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O’FALLON, Ill. – In the wake of a recent storm, the City of O’Fallon has established a designated drop-off site for residents to dispose of yard debris after the recent Friday night, March 14, 2025, serious storm. The site, located at O’Fallon Fire House #4 on 1215 Taylor Road, is now open for residents to bring storm-related yard waste. The drop-off location will be operational daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and is intended solely for O’Fallon residents, excluding contractors and commercial entities. The site will accept yard waste such as tree limbs, branches, and other organic debris resulting from the storm. “We want to make it as easy as possible for residents to clean up after the storm,” said Mayor Herb Roach. “This drop-off site will provide a convenient and safe way to dispose of storm debris.” In addition to the new drop-off site, Waste Management offers year-round yard waste pickup for O’Fallon residents.

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GRANITE CITY - Revity Credit Union rallied together to raise $1,375.00 in the month of March to benefit TWIGS with the Revity Threads of Kindness Program. This program, funded by employees, allows Revity Credit Union staff to embody the credit union's philosophy of people helping people. By contributing a monthly monetary donation to a local organization, employees can enjoy wearing jeans and tennis shoes on Fridays and Saturdays throughout that month. In 2025, Revity Credit Union is committed to impactful giving and community support, weaving kindness into the fabric of our daily lives and ensuring that every jeans day makes a difference. TWIGS was nominated as the recipient of our March Threads of Kindness donation, receiving $1,375.00. As a 501©3 non-profit charity organization, Twigs has a goal to provide a lunch to the children who are at risk of not having a lunch during the summer months. Through Twigs, it cost about $1.35 per a lunch, with Revity’s contributions

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ALTON - Parents and principals are invited to a public meeting about special education services available to local students. At 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, Alton Community Unit School District #11 will host the meeting to inform community members about services available to students who are homeschooled or attend private schools in the area. Cathy Elliott, Director of Special Education, explained that the district receives federal grant money that allows them to provide these services to students who don’t attend the Alton School District. “We hold a meeting and we talk about the services that are going to be offered to the students in the community,” Elliott said. “I update them every year with, here’s our special education services.” The Alton School District receives funding through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and some of this money must go to nonpublic entities like private or home schools. Through

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY - St. Louis County police are investigating the death of a 43-year-old woman, identified as Jennifer Brewington, who was found in her backyard on Wintergreen Drive. The incident, which is being treated as a possible electrocution, occurred early on Saturday, March 15, 2025. Officers from the North County Precinct responded to a call at 12:16 a.m. regarding a possible electrocution in the 3000 block of Wintergreen Drive. Upon arrival, they discovered Brewington near electrical lines and pronounced her dead at the scene. According to preliminary reports, Brewington was assessing potential damage in her backyard when she encountered the electrical line. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death is ongoing, and authorities have stated that additional information will be released as it becomes available. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210.

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Did you know that St. Patrick’s Day was originally a solemn religious observance that has transformed into a global celebration of Irish culture? This transformation highlights not just the evolution of traditions but also the universal human desire to celebrate identity, heritage, and community. As millions don green attire, attend parades, and enjoy festive meals every March 17, it’s fascinating to delve into the rich tapestry of history that gives rise to this vibrant holiday. The Man Behind the Legend St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is not just a figure of folklore but a real historical character born in the late 4th century. Originally named Maewyn Succat, he was kidnapped at the age of 16 by Irish pirates and taken to Ireland as a slave. After six years, he escaped, returned to his family, and eventually became a priest. He felt a calling to return to Ireland, where he dedicated his life to converting the Irish to Christianity. St. Patrick’s life

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Welcome to another fascinating journey through history! On this day, March 17th, we reflect on significant events that have shaped our world. 1776: The Siege of Boston Ends One of the most pivotal moments in the American Revolutionary War occurred on March 17, 1776, when British forces evacuated Boston. After months of a grueling siege, American colonists, led by General George Washington, had fortified positions around the city, particularly with the strategic placement of cannons at Dorchester Heights. The sight of these cannons prompted the British to abandon the city, marking a significant victory for the American forces and boosting morale among the colonists. This event not only showcased the effectiveness of colonial military strategy but also laid the groundwork for the eventual independence of the United States. 1963: The First Public Demonstration of a Computer Fast forward to 1963, when March 17 marked a significant milestone in the world of technology. This day

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Did you know that nearly one-third of adults don’t get enough sleep on a regular basis? This startling statistic from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) underscores a growing public health concern that extends beyond mere fatigue. Sleep is not just a time for rest; it is a critical component of our overall health, influencing everything from mental clarity and emotional stability to physical well-being and longevity. Understanding the importance of sleep hygiene can be the key to unlocking a healthier, more vibrant life. What Is Sleep Hygiene? Sleep hygiene refers to a set of practices and habits that promote consistent, uninterrupted, and restful sleep. This encompasses both the environment in which you sleep and the behaviors leading up to bedtime. While the term might sound simplistic, the implications of good sleep hygiene are profound. It goes beyond just the quantity of sleep; it involves the quality of that sleep and how it integrates into your daily

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Did you know that nearly 54% of social media users browse platforms to research products? This staggering statistic highlights the vital role social media plays in shaping consumer behavior today. For small businesses, harnessing this dynamic landscape can be the difference between thriving and merely surviving in an increasingly competitive market. In this article, we’ll explore how to effectively leverage social media to boost your small business, enhance brand awareness, and foster customer loyalty. Understanding Your Audience Before diving into social media strategies, it’s essential to understand who your audience is. Tailoring your approach begins with knowing what platforms they frequent, what content resonates with them, and how they prefer to engage. Create Customer Personas: Start by developing customer personas that encapsulate your target audience. These should include demographics, interests, and pain points. By understanding your audience’s priorities

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March 15th and 16th are dates that resonates through history, marked by events that have shaped the world in profound ways. Perhaps the most famous event associated with March 15th is the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BC, an event that forever altered the course of Roman history. Caesar, who had amassed significant power and influence as a military general and politician, was warned by a soothsayer to “beware the Ides of March.” Despite the forewarning, he attended a Senate meeting where he was brutally attacked by a group of conspirators, including his close friend Brutus. This assassination not only marked the end of Caesar's rule but also initiated a series of civil wars that ultimately led to the rise of the Roman Empire and significant changes in governance. On March 15, 1801, a significant milestone in American journalism occurred with the founding of the New York Evening Post by Alexander Hamilton. This publication played a crucial role in shaping public

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COLLINSVILLE – Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich accepted a $100,000 gift from the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades® PATCH Foundation to benefit the CAVC Joseph Smith Vocational Scholarship. The Joseph Smith Vocational Scholarship was created in 2022 by the Gregg and Anna Smith family in memory of their son, Collinsville Area Vocational Center student Joseph Smith. The scholarship benefits students who attend CAVC to pursue training toward a career in the automotive or welding industries. The Painters and Allied Trades for Children's Hope Foundation (PATCH) was established in 2001, and is supported by the members IUPAT to help children in need throughout North America. It has raised and given nearly $2 million to organizations that provide educational and medical services to youth, and in support of local children's sports programs. "We are grateful as a family to belong to the IUPAT and the PATCH Foundation

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SPRINGFIELD – More than 7,000 students will visit Illinois state parks, natural areas, museums and other natural resources sites this year to learn about nature and conservation thanks to grant funding through the Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grant Program. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) today announced more than $99,600 funding was awarded for 113 student field trip grants. Grant recipients represent 32 counties in the state. The grants are made possible by private donations from the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Foundation of Skokie and the D.F. and M.T. Grohne Family Foundation of Wilmington. The donations and funding for the grants are coordinated by the Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF). “This program allows students to visit natural, outdoor locations throughout Illinois to see firsthand what they’ve been learning about in the classroom,” said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finni e. “Our future conservation leaders need

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SPRINGFIELD - Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration: Employment Security Advisory Board Rick Terven will continue to serve as a Member of the Employment Security Advisory Board.* Rick Terven, Jr. serves as the Legislative and Political Director for the Illinois Pipe Trades Association representing 21 local unions and over 26,000 union members across Illinois. Terven is a member of Pipe Fitters Association Local 597 and is a graduate of SUNY Empire State University’s National Labor College with a Bachelor of Arts in Labor Studies. Terven is also a Vice-President on the Illinois AFL-CIO Executive Board, and has served as an employee representative on the Employment Security Advisory Board since 2016. Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees Ed HighTower will continue to serve as a Member of the Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees.* Dr. Hightower retired

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CHICAGO - Ahead of April 1, 2025, the Democratic Party of Illinois (DPI) has released details of its 2025 municipal campaign program—a robust and hands-on initiative to support nearly 300 candidates in every region of the state. In 2023 , under Chair Lisa Hernandez’s leadership, the Party made clear its commitment to preventing extremist conservatives from implementing regressive platforms on school and library boards. This cycle , as national politics dominate the political ecosystem and impact the daily lives of working Illinoisans, DPI has built upon 2023’s program to continue defending its values of diversity, equity and inclusion and affirm that every election and every vote matters. “From day one as Chair, I’ve stressed to my team that every election matters," DPI Chair Lisa Hernandez said. “With national politics dominating the conversation and Trump-Musk threatening democracy, organizing at the most hyperlocal levels is one way for us

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Labor's (IDOL) Division of Occupational Safety and Health (IL OSHA) has released an incident report following an inspection and investigation of the drowning of a public works employee. The Deming Incident Report serves as a learning resource for municipal water departments. In February 2023, a 20-year-old maintenance worker drowned in a water main vault that flooded during the attempted repair of a leaking valve. IL OSHA determined there were multiple contributing factors that led to the drowning, including: Lack of compliance with several confined space standards. Lack of oversight and auditing by management. Lack of rescue capability at the worksite. “This incident highlights the importance of compliance with Illinois Occupational Safety and Health Act standards, proper risk assessment, and a rapid and effective rescue plan for confined space operations,” said IL OSHA Chief Erik Kambarian. “Additionally,

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Education Association (IEA) awarded seven educators from around the state for their outstanding commitment to their schools, students, communities and public education. The awards were presented during the IEA Representative Assembly (RA). The RA is the legislative body of the IEA and helps the state’s largest union set its agenda for the year. There are 1,200 IEA delegates, guests and state dignitaries who attend the RA. The IEA award recipients were nominated and chosen for their awards by their peers. The 2025 IEA RA award winners are: Bob Haisman Early Career Teacher of the Year Award – Christopher Pettit (Orchestra teacher, Bell Graham Elementary School CUSD 303) As an early career educator, Christopher Pettit has demonstrated outstanding involvement in our local, state and national associations. Christopher has served as a region council member, IEA Representative Assembly (RA) delegate, National Education Association Representative

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