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ALTON - Alton Mayor David Goins held a press conference following an officer-involved shooting that left a suspect and K-9 officer dead and an Alton officer injured on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024. Alton Police Department officers exchanged gunfire with a suspect in the early morning hours of Aug. 22, 2024, in the 700 block of East 6th Street in Alton. Officer Allen Averbeck was struck by the suspect’s gunfire and transported to an area hospital. His K-9 partner, Odin, was struck by gunfire and transported to a local veterinary hospital with critical injuries, to which he later succumbed. The suspect was also shot during the exchange, transported to an area hospital, and pronounced deceased. “Today, our community faced a heartbreaking event that has deeply impacted all of us,” Goins said during the press conference. “In times like these, it’s easy to feel disheartened. However, I urge our community to come together in unity and resilience. We must remember

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CARLINVILLE - Carlinville residents are being urged to secure their vehicles and storage sheds following a surge in thefts involving power tools, according to Carlinville Police Chief Derek Graham. "Over the past few days, the Carlinville Police Department has received multiple complaints about thefts from unlocked vehicles and garages," he said. The incidents have prompted the police department to issue a public reminder for residents to lock their vehicles and outside storage sheds, especially at night. "We would like to remind everyone to make sure you lock your vehicles and outside storage sheds at night," the Carlinville Police stated in a message sourced via CRIMEWATCH®. In addition to securing their belongings, the CPD is encouraging citizens to report any suspicious activities they observe. "We also encourage citizens to report any suspicious activities to the Police Department when they see it," Chief Graham added. The Carlinville Police Department's call to action

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BELLEVILLE - Collinsville, Belleville and O'Fallon have recorded some favorable unemployment stats from July 2024 to July 2023 in the recent Illinois Department of Unemployment Security report. Collinsville's rate stands at 5.5 percent, up from 4.9 percent in 2023 for July. O'Fallon posted a 5.6 percent mark compared to 4.7 percent a year ago, and Belleville remained steady at 5.8 percent this July to 5.3 percent in 2023 at the same time. Granite City has a 6.7 percent unemployment rate in comparison to July 2023 of 4.9 percent. East St. Louis city now has a 9.2 percent unemployment rate in July 2024 compared to 8.3 percent in July 2023. St. Clair County has a 5.8 percent rate compared to 5.1 percent a year ago, and Bond County has risen from 4.2 percent to 5.3 percent.

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GRAFTON - On Tuesday, August 20, 2024, Grafton Mayor Mike Morrow presented certificates of appreciation on behalf of the City Council to the team of boating residents who installed the new public boat dock at Lighthouse Park. “The dock was in serious need of replacement, and last year, the city set aside the funds to purchase a new dock. Joe De Sherlia, owner and operator of the Grafton Marina helped locate the proper type for our needs and we purchased the new dock from Tiger Docks of Wright City Missouri,” said Mayor Morrow. Mike “Mac” McGillicuddy, John Taylor and Bill Critchfield were invaluable in helping bring the project to completion. The city set aside the funds and purchased the new dock this spring, but installation costs were not covered. Joe and his Marina team stepped up, offering to install the dock at no charge to the city. They actually did it twice! After high water receded this spring, the docks were installed, but when the river level

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EDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville continues to record the lowest unemployment rate in the most recent report of statewide rates. Edwardsville's unemployment rate is unemployment 4.6 percent in July 2024 in comparison to July 2023. Alton's unemployment rate has risen to 7.8 percent from 6.5 percent from July 2024 to July 2023, a 1.3 percent increase. Calhoun County posted the best unemployment rate outside the immediate Alton/Edwardsville region in July 2024 with a 4.7 percent mark, compared to 4.5 percent in July 2023. Jersey County has a 5.4 percent rate, up from 4.1 percent in 2023 at this time. Macoupin County has a 5.1 percent rate compared to 4.4 percent in July 2023, and Greene County is at 5.5 percent compared to 4.8 percent a year ago. "Long-term consistent job growth throughout the state continues to fuel and motivate eager job seekers and employers to actively engage in the expanding economy, said Deputy Director Andy Manar. "Illinois proudly commits to continue its critical investment

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O'FALLON — As COVID-19 activity rises across Illinois, HSHS St. Elizabeth's Hospital in O'Fallon is offering advice to residents on how to access testing resources effectively. The CDC reported last week the following: "As of August 13, 2024, we estimate that COVID-19 infections are growing or likely growing in 25 states, declining or likely declining in 5 states, and are stable or uncertain in 17 states." HSHS officials in O'Fallon, IL., said for those experiencing mild to moderate symptoms, there are several options available. Appointments can be made at retail pharmacies, or individuals can utilize public testing sites such as local health departments. These locations also offer at-home testing kits for purchase. "The U.S. government continues to provide free COVID-19 tests to uninsured individuals and underserved communities through existing outreach programs," HSHS said. "Residents are encouraged to contact a Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-funded health

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COLLINSVILLE - At the August 2024 regular monthly meeting, the Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Board of Education approved and welcomed Collinsville High School senior Brion Brown as the district's student school board member for the 2024-25 school year. The role, which is non-voting, allows for a student voice on the board and serves as a bridge between the board of education, administration, and the student body. "I have always wanted to serve as a student school board member because I recognize the significance of a student's voice in our society and, moreover, how often that voice is underrepresented," Brion wrote in his application. "I want to be the person that can offer that perspective and that input for the school board." Brion, who is ranked in the top 2% of his senior class, balances his academic achievements with a range of talents and co-curricular activities. His commitment to community service played a significant role in his decision to apply for the

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ALTON — Duke Bakery, located at 819 Henry St. in Alton, found itself near a tragic shooting incident on the 700 block of East Sixth Street on Thursday morning, Aug. 22, 2024. The incident resulted in the death of Alton Police K-9 Odin and injuries to Officer Allen Averbeck . In a show of community solidarity, Duke Bakery displayed a sign reading, “Thank You For Your Service K9 Odin.” Ben Hollis, one of the bakery's owners, described the chaotic morning and the immediate need to ensure everyone's safety. “This was extremely impacting,” Hollis said. “Any time something like this happens, especially in the Middletown area, there is a huge reaction. This one hits home pretty hard.” Hollis, who both lives and works in the neighborhood, expressed the deep sense of loss felt by the community. “The death of the K-9 and shooting of the officer are very tragic. The K-9 likely saved the lives of some of our officers. It is a tragedy all the wa

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HIGHLAND — Jerod Kampwerth was officially pinned as the newly promoted Assistant Chief of the Highland-Pierron Fire Protection District during last night's Board of Trustees meeting. The ceremony, held at the district's firehouse, marked a significant milestone in Kampwerth's career in fire service. Kampwerth began his journey in 2005 with the Glen Carbon Fire Department before moving to the Marine Fire Department in 2008. After getting married and relocating to Highland the following year, he joined the Highland-Pierron Fire Department. Over the years, Kampwerth has distinguished himself as a reliable and knowledgeable leader, serving as an instructor in technical rescue training and rising to the rank of Captain. His wife, Lindsey, had the honor of pinning him during the ceremony, with their children Willa, Jerome, and Naomi, as well as both sets of parents, in attendance. The event was a testament to Kampwerth's dedication and the support of his family. The Board of Trustees

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ALTON - An investigation is underway in an officer-involved shooting near the 700 block of East Sixth Street in Alton. The Alton Police officer has been identified as Allen Averbeck and the K-9 was named Odin. A large police presence, including Illinois State Police, are involved in the investigation. On Aug. 22, 2024, at approximately 6:05 a.m., the Alton Police Department requested assistance in an officer-involved shooting investigation. Preliminary reports show that officers from the Alton Police Department engaged in gunfire with a suspect in the 700 block of E. 6th Street in Alton. The suspect was transported to an area hospital and pronounced deceased. One officer from the Alton Police Department was struck and transported to an area hospital. No information about the officer’s condition is available at this time. An Alton Police K-9 was also struck and is receiving care at a local veterinary hospital for critical injuries. State Rep. Amy Elik issued

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ALTON – The Alton community is grappling with grief following the loss of a beloved canine and the unsettling shooting of Alton Police Officer Allen Averbeck on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024. The incident unfolded in the 700 block of E. 6th Street in Alton, resulting in the death of K-9 Odin, Officer Averbeck's partner. The suspect involved in the shooting sustained injuries, was transported to a local hospital, and was later pronounced deceased. Alton Mayor David Goins provided an update early Thursday, stating that Officer Averbeck is "doing well" but remains deeply affected by the incident and the loss of Odin. "Officer Averbeck was struck in the shooting in the vest," Goins said, highlighting the protective gear that likely saved his life. The City of Alton released a heartfelt statement, honoring both Officer Averbeck and K-9 Odin. "With profound sadness, we honor Police Officer First Class Averbeck and his K-9, Odin. We extend our deepest condolences on the tragic passing

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ALTON - Summer might be winding down, but Riviera Maya is kicking it into high gear as they prepare for several events in the next few months. The restaurant, located at 2704 Corner Court in Alton, has a food truck that often travels to Alton events. At the recent Scotty McCreery concert at the Alton Amphitheater, Jose and Adelai shared that they were working hard to make sure the crowd was fed, and they can’t wait to see more customers at their events throughout the fall. “Jose and I, we work really hard together,” Adelai said. “We try to figure out a good balance of having fun and being able to help people as they’re coming to the food truck. We’re also enjoying the event and seeing people come up firsthand, and also seeing people as they interact with our food, eating it and really enjoying it. I think that’s what makes him and I do it every weekend, in and out, is just seeing people enjoy the food.” Jose and Adelai are at the

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PONTOON BEACH - Three individuals from three different cities face the same set of criminal charges after allegedly damaging gaming machines and stealing money from them. The following individuals were each charged with theft and criminal damage to property: Courtney T. Jones, 33, of East St. Louis Melvannli G. Dean, 28, of Collinsville Brandon B. McCullar, 36, of Glen Carbon According to Madison County court documents, all three individuals allegedly damaged and stole over $500 from gaming machines owned by J&J Gambling, which were located at the Flying J Travel Center at 1310 E. Chain of Rocks Road in Pontoon Beach. While all three individuals face Class 3 felonies for theft, Jones and Dean additionally face Class 4 felonies, as the damage they caused to the gaming machines reportedly exceeded $500. McCullar’s property damage charge was classified as a Class A misdemeanor, as the damage he caused to the machines totaled less than $500. The Pontoon Beach Police

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EDWARDSVILLE — A large contingent of law enforcement officers gathered at Hawthorne Animal Hospital on Thursday morning to honor Odin, a beloved Alton Police K-9 who died after being shot at a scene at Seventh and Liberty in Alton. Representatives from the Alton Police, the DEA, Madison County Sheriff's Office, Illinois State Police, Edwardsville Police, Granite City Police, Glen Carbon Police, and Columbia Police, along with numerous unmarked law enforcement vehicles, participated in the tribute. Odin's casket, draped with an American flag, was brought out as the Edwardsville Fire Department displayed an American flag from its ladder truck at Plum Street. Taps were played as the canine was moved into a van, and officers saluted the fallen canine during the transfer. The procession escorted Odin to an undisclosed location, marking a solemn farewell to the canine who served the community.

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ALTON - Bernice and Clarence Geisler of the Nutwood Drainage District in Jersey County had been married for about a year when a horse trade gone bad tore them apart. Their fathers, Henry Geisler and Charles Ontis, decided to swap horses. For a time, everything was fine, but then Henry Geisler decided that his new horse was balky. Ontis refused to trade back, and responded that Geisler had waited nearly three months to complain, and that while Geisler had the horse it was maimed by barbed wire and injured. Geisler employed attorney R.C. Chappel of Jerseyville to bring suit to retrieve his horse and Ontis retained Attorney Martin J. Dolan to defend his side. Jersey County Sheriff Frank Sowell spent an entire week interviewing witnesses, and subpoenaed 20 of them. Bernice and Clarence Geisler had been living with his parents, but when the dispute over the horse trade became heated, Bernice packed her clothes, left her husband, and went home to her parents’ house where she could

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GODFREY - Lewis and Clark Community College Financial Aid is offering FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) Completion and Corrections Assistance during an upcoming workshop, Aug. 27, 2024. Assistance will be available from 3-6 p.m. in Baldwin Hall, on the college’s Godfrey Campus. Students should start in the Financial Aid office, BA 2450, on the college's Godfrey Campus to check in when they arrive. Free snacks and drinks will be available during this event. Anyone with questions can contact Director of Financial Aid Angela Weaver at aweaver@lc.edu .

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SPRINGFIELD - This year has been a whirlwind of activity, and it’s hard to believe it’s already back-to-school time. Since the spring legislative session ended in late May, I’ve been busy working on constituent requests and cases, visiting local organizations and businesses, and meeting with people on local projects and issues. The work in Springfield is just one aspect of being a State Representative. The local district office work continues year-round, and my dedicated staff is here in the office while I attend events and meetings. Throughout the spring and summer, my staff and I held traveling office hours across the district. I also held a tele-town hall in July to provide updates on the legislative session and to hear from constituents. We are continuously planning outreach events around the district. On September 3rd at 1:30 p.m., I am hosting a Senior Fraud Seminar at Meridian Village in Glen Carbon, where the Attorney General’s office will present on

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EAST ST. LOUIS – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that rehabilitation of a crossing by Bi-State Development Agency on Illinois 15 between East Broadway and South Fourth Street in St. Clair County will require a full closure beginning, weather permitting, Friday, Aug. 23. A posted detour will be in place to safely guide motorists around the closure, which is expected to conclude Tuesday, Aug. 27. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to detour signs in work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

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ALTON - After a sinkhole at Gordon Moore Park closed the park for several weeks this summer, the park and Spencer T. Olin Community Golf Course are once again open . Vern Van Hoy, owner of the golf course, and general manager Mary Campbell spoke about their excitement about reopening and the struggles they went through while the golf course was closed. They noted that they did not know the park was going to reopen until two days before it did, and they had a successful first weekend back on the green. “We attended one meeting, and then after that, all the rest of the meetings were closed to everybody, so we did not know what was going on. We didn’t know if we were going to be opening up in eight weeks, ten weeks or ten years,” Van Hoy said. “The anxiety of not knowing, not having control, it’s the worst feeling in the world. So to find out that we were going to open as early as we did is exciting.” The golf course opened this weekend

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ALTON - During their regular meeting on Aug. 20, 2024, the Alton Community Unit School District #11 Board of Education voted unanimously to approve the District Improvement Plan. This plan prioritizes a culture of belonging, grade-appropriate instruction and assignments, and professional learning communities. Elaine Kane, ACUSD11 superintendent, spent a few minutes discussing the culture of belonging in the district’s schools. “We believe the students and staff in the Alton school district deserve excellent conditions for teaching and learning,” Kane said. “Everyone in this district talks about creating a culture of belonging. We talk about it for our students, we talk about it for our staff, but we want to make sure that our actions and our decisions and our allocation of resources creates a culture of belonging for everyone in the Alton School District…That is the most important thing for learning to occur.” The principals from each school

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