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ALTON - Keith Steinacher, owner/instructor of Strategic BJJ, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, has a special place in his heart for veterans and what they have done to protect this country. Steinacher has several family members who have served in the military, including a grandfather. Steinacher has teamed with John Kadell and Jon Ward, both officers of the United States Veterans Foundation, in a program to help veterans with PTSD. Today, on Veterans Day, it is appropriate to talk about the U.S. Veterans Foundation scholarship program to assist veterans to combat PTSD through martial arts and make them aware of its availability. Because of the USVF funding, veterans can receive A Rolling For Recovery program paid for and even have some equipment furnished. Steinacher pays half of the fee for any veteran who wants to do the program at his gym. “Right now, they are looking for candidates to get aligned with several gyms in the area, including Strategic BJJ,” Steinacher said.

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BETHALTO - Scooter's Coffee Drive-Thru just opened its newest location in Illinois, this time right in the heart of Bethalto. The store held its grand opening as well as a ribbon cutting to celebrate the special occasion Friday afternoon. The store, located at 102 W Bethalto Drive, sits at one of the busiest intersections in the town and will be open daily from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. "This will be a great addition,” Bethalto Mayor Gary Bost said. “This has been about a year process, so it's good that it's finally open.” "I see the drive-thru is filled almost every day. I'm proud of those guys that are great owners and look forward to a long relationship with them,” Bost added. The store’s owners, Peter Gariepy and his wife Karishma, couldn’t be more excited for the store’s grand opening. "It kind of felt like the stars aligned and everyone was so positive,” Gariepy said. “We couldn't be happier, and we hope it's been a good addition

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Name: Walter L. Lagemann Hometwon: Godfrey KIA: No Branch: Navy Wars : WWII Submitter's Name: Danny Evans

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Name: Richard Bricker Sr. Hometown: Cottage Hills, Illinois Years of Service: 1968 DOD: December 25, 2006 KIA: No Branch: Army RAnk: Sergeant Wars: Vietnam Medals: Multiple purple hearts as well as several other services medals Message: Richard was a gunnery sergeant in Vietnam where his helicopter was clipped by an RPG and crashed to the ground. All members in the crash survived the crash and helped pull each other out with only one dying from his wounds in the Hospital while the rest suffered irreparable damage physically and mentally but would get to grow old. Richard was burnt on over 95% of his body and was honorably discharged with 100% disability due to the burns he received after recovery where he decided to spend the remainder of his days living life to the fullest. He enjoyed fast cars, beautiful woman and having fun with anybody and everybody. Submitter's Name: Factory Direct Mattress Bethalto

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CARROLLTON - Several violent, property crime, and other charges have been filed in Greene County over the past month, according to the most recent Greene County Jail Booking Report from Sheriff Robert McMillen’s office. Devin A. Krueger, 26, of Staunton, was charged with two counts of residential burglary, one count of burglary, two counts of theft, and two counts of criminal damage to property. He was arrested by the Greene County Sheriff on Oct. 26 and remains in custody. Hunter E. Neff, 19, of White Hall, was charged with aggravated battery, assault, resisting a peace officer, criminal trespass to a building, and consumption of liquor by a minor. He was arrested last Friday, Nov. 4 by the Roodhouse Police Department and has since been released on bond. Heather S. Sullivan, 37, of Roodhouse, was charged with two counts of theft between $10,000-$100,000, as well as a warrant for her arrest in Madison County. She was arrested by the Greene County Sheriff on Oct. 28 and

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ALTON - The Annual Veterans Day Program at the Alton VFW Post 1308 on Friday morning was again an emotional time to honor those who have served their country. Elliott Ferguson, a U.S. Army veteran, and detective with the Alton Police Department was the keynote speaker. Shannon Yount, a Marine Corps veteran, was the master of ceremonies and provided the welcome for the event. William Perkins, also a Marine Corps veteran, provided the invocation. The Cub Scout Pack 8001 did the Pledge of Allegiance. Steve Corbitt performed the vocal rendition of the National Anthem. Alton Mayor David Goins read a proclamation. The Laying of the Wreaths participants was as follows: Medal Of Honor - Glenn Wilson, USMC POW/MIA - Tanya Degerlia Gold Star Mother - Lynn Lenker, escorted by Alec Dvorak Eagle Scout Alton Post 1308 & Auxiliary - Commander Wayne Able, and Auxiliary Senior Vice President Angie Able Army - Jeremony Lile Navy - Jake Lloyd Marine Corps - Brad Yount Air Force - Denise

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CARROLLTON - Several individuals have been arrested on drug and alcohol-related charges over the past month - from October to November 2022 - according to the most recent Greene County Jail Booking Report from the office of Sheriff Rob McMillen. Dale A. Smith, 34, of Jerseyville, was charged with the manufacture/delivery of 30+ grams of methaqualone, the manufacture/delivery of 10-30 grams of cannabis, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested by the Roodhouse Police Department on Oct. 19 and remains in custody. Hunter E. Neff, 19, of White Hall, was charged with consumption of liquor by a minor in addition to several other non-alcohol/drug charges including aggravated battery, assault, resisting a peace officer, and criminal trespass to a building. He was arrested last Friday, Nov. 4 by the Roodhouse Police Department and has since been released on bond. David R. Moore, 36, of Winchester, was charged with driving under the influence

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MADISON - The WonderLight's Christmas drive-thru show is back again at World Wide Technology Raceway. The show is open nightly, including holidays, from November 11 through January 1 from 5-10 p.m. World Wide Technology Raceway is located at 1905 Collinsville Road, Fairmont City, IL 62201. It costs $30 per car for up to seven passengers while kids three and under are free. It's advertised as being up to a 45-minute experience but ultimately depends on how busy of a night it is. For tickets and more information visit their website .

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ALTON - YWCA hosted its annual Trivia Night Fund Raiser on Saturday, November 5 at Best Western Premier Conference Center, Alton, and would like to thank the community for its support. “We were so excited to be back in person for Trivia and surrounded by YWCA friends. YWCA Trivia featured celebrity volunteer judges: Ms. Deborah Pitts, Chief Marcus Polido, and Alderman Stephanie Elliott. Our attendance prizes, silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and challenging trivia made for an action-packed and enjoyable evening.” said Dorothy Hummel, YWCA Executive Director. This year’s Programs Sponsors included Altonized Community Federal Credit Union, Friends of David Goins, Mayor Alton, Gail Donnelly, Doug Bader, Honorable Ellar Duff, Luken Insurance, First Mid Bank & Trust, Friends for Katie Stuart, IL State Rep 112 th District, and the YWCA Yogis. We were blessed by numerous Round Sponsors: Altonized Community Federal Credit Union, AWA Tees and More, Bickle Electric, Busey

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ST. LOUIS - With colder weather arriving across the state, Illinois American Water is reminding homeowners to take steps to prevent water damage from frozen and burst pipes. Tips also cover frozen water meters, which can bring costly plumbing repairs and replacement fees along with headaches and unexpected expense to homeowners. “With cold weather on the way, now is the time for customers to take preventative steps to avoid frozen pipes and water meters. Preparing now can help customers avoid damaged plumbing inside and outside of their homes,” said Beth Matthews, vice president of operations. Before temperatures are below freezing customers should: Check sprinkler or irrigation systems. Make sure you have turned everything off and fully drained the systems. Identify your home’s freezing points . Check your home for pipes in areas that may be prone to freezing, such as crawl spaces, unheated rooms, basements, garages and exterior walls. Know the location

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ST. LOUIS - Since 2013, Saint Louis Closet Co., which locally designs, manufactures and installs custom closets and organizational systems, has been an official drop-off site for the annual Toys for Tots program. This year, they are kicking off their toy drive on Tuesday, November 15, from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. at 2626 S. Big Bend Blvd., Saint Louis, MO 63143. Each person who attends the event and donates a new, unwrapped toy will be entered to win a Starbucks gift card. “Please come out to help us collect toys for children who would otherwise not receive a present on Christmas,” said Jennifer Williams, Owner of Saint Louis Closet Co. “It’s an incredible feeling to give back to families and children who are less fortunate. We love all that Toys for Tots does to help families who are going through tough times in their lives.” The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during November and December

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JERSEYVILLE - Multiple groups came together to hold a short parade to honor Veteran's Day in Jerseyville this morning. The parade began at 10 a.m. starting from the corner of W Prairie St. and N State St. It carried on down S State St. for about a quarter-mile before looping back around. Locals got out to honor these veterans although the chilly morning temperatures. The parade was led off by American Legion Post #492 and VFW Post 4528. There were also scout members and the Jersey Community High School marching band. The parade lasted not much longer than 15 minutes but was a great way to pay respect to these veterans.

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ST. LOUIS - This Veterans Day and every day, Ameren is proud to support veterans and active-duty military members and their families by providing energy assistance as well as post-military career opportunities. Assistance Available for Military and Veteran Customers Active military families and veterans throughout Missouri are eligible for additional assistance to help pay their utility bills. Ameren Missouri is providing $25,000 in assistance that will be administered through United Way 211 as part of the Ameren Missouri Veterans Fund. "Our military has made tremendous sacrifices for our country, and we're honored to be able to partner with Ameren Missouri to provide them extra support at home," said Michelle Tucker , president and CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis. "Since launching in 2018, the Ameren Missouri Veterans Fund has assisted 508 veteran and military households, totaling more than $147,000 in utility bill assistance statewide." Veterans, active military members

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ALHAMBRA - The Legendary Mustang Sanctuary, a nonprofit organization and horse sanctuary for Mustangs, is hosting a lunch to show appreciation for veterans, active duty service members, and first responders. The lunch will be held this Sunday, Nov. 13 starting at 11 a.m. at the sanctuary, located at 10107 Klenke Road in Alhambra, Illinois, 62001. Cora Miller, director of promotion and development with the Legendary Mustang Sanctuary, said there will be lots of food available, including two types of chili and hot dogs, adding that this is a non-alcoholic event. “We are planning on having some delicious buffalo chili, which is made with very lean buffalo meat - delicious,” Miller said. “It’s Buffalo Black Bean Chili and regular chili, and we’re probably going to try and have some cornbread, and try to have a cake in honor of our wonderful service people who work so hard to keep us safe.” She added that the event is free to veterans, first responders,

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CHICAGO – One lucky Illinois Lottery player has won a life-changing amount of money – a whopping $4 million - after buying a winning Mega Millions ticket in the Tuesday, November 9 drawing. The winning ticket was purchased at a Circle K convenience store and gas station, located at 923 N. 14th St. in Murphysboro. The lucky player matched all five numbers, 5-13-29-38-59, plus added the game’s Megaplier feature to win the $4 million prize. For selling the winning ticket, the retailer will receive a bonus of $10,000, one percent of the prize amount. In total, nearly 39,000 winning tickets were sold, and over $4.2 million in prizes were won in Tuesday night’s Mega Millions drawing. Winners have one year from the date of the winning draw in which to claim their prize. The Illinois Lottery encourages all lucky winners to write their name on the back of their ticket and keep it in a safe place until they’re ready to claim their prize. The next Mega Millions

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GODFREY - The Godfrey Fire Department and Madison County Sheriff’s Office worked a car fire on River Road outside Alton around 5 p.m. on Thursday. The vehicle encountered major damage and was initially engulfed in flames, but firefighters did get the blaze extinguished. It appeared those in the car made it out safely. Traffic was backed up until the area could be cleared. More information to come.

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ALTON - Some say it is the backbone of Alton. It welcomes you when you make the left turn from Clark Bridge into the city. It welcomes you when you enter Alton from the Great River Road. It towers at the bottom of State Street. The giant wheat silo emblazoned with the American flag bids one and all a hearty welcome to a hard-working river town. When asked where he works, plant manager Andrew Powell says, “Oh, the building with the big American flag.” The mill, now operated by Ardent Mills in Alton, has been a major feature to the Riverbend community. A lot of the flour that Ardent produces gets distributed locally around the Alton and greater St. Louis area. Dominos, Panera, Shearers, and Fazio’s are just some of the customers that Ardent Mills supplies. The wheat that is milled in Alton comes from all around the Midwest and Plains states. It is transported to Alton from across Illinois, Wisconsin, Missouri, and the Dakotas, to name a few of the states. There are

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GODFREY - Pride, Inc. is taking reservations for its 9th Annual Local Celebrity Roast. It will be Thursday, December 1, at Lewis & Clark Community College. Cocktail reception begins at 5:00 p.m. with dinner following at 6:00 p.m. The Roast begins at 6:55 p.m. and concludes by 8 p.m. This year Pride is roasting and toasting Tammy Iskarous, Founder and Executive Director of Riverbend Family Ministries. Fifteen years ago, Tammy Iskarous had the vision to bring smaller nonprofits all under one roof in order for them to holistically wrap around families in crisis due to violence, addiction, homelessness, and poverty. Riverbend Family Ministries, an incubator model of care, has been recognized by leaders in Madison County and Illinois. As founder and volunteer Executive Director, she has clocked more than 50,000 volunteer hours – and she would be the first one to tell you that there’s more work to be done. She has been on the boards of other nonprofits, such as YWCA - Alton,

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WOOD RIVER – Amare, a local nonprofit based out of Wood River, Ill., has joined forces with the Jersey Community Hospital (JCH) Clinical Services' MAT Clinic located at 220 County Rd., Jerseyville, Ill, and is part of the JCH Healthcare organization. MAT is an acronym for medically assisted treatment that typically combines medication to help someone diagnosed with a substance use disorder and counseling as a treatment modality. The revolutionary partnership between the two agencies will allow additional support for MAT Clinic's clients. Amare works to help those recovering from substance use disorders, dependency, or co-occurring disorders. The nonprofit provides recovery support services like recovery coaching, family recovery coaching and support, and linkage to additional resources and clinical services like detox or residential treatment. They also focus heavily on education and awareness with events like their annual Rockin' for Recovery held in September, which provides

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ALTON - The Baker sisters, undoubtedly Alton's most passionate and charismatic players on the girl's soccer team, both got to sign commitments to their respective colleges. Emily, the goal scorer, will be heading to Southeast Missouri State University, while Peyton, the goal stopper, will be going to McKendree University. The sisters are both Auto Butler Female Athletes of the Month for Alton. Emily is the team's go-to forward, especially in big games and important situations. She scored 31 goals last season which led the team and assisted on nine more. Her sister Peyton is the go-to keeper. She started every game of the season and picked up 11 shutouts along the way. She made 99 saves throughout the season and logged over 1,700 minutes. Their head coach at Alton, Gwen Sabo, was proud of their accomplishment. "Kind of like I told them yesterday, it's super cool anytime you can make it to the next level." She mentioned that you don't see a lot of sisters being able to do

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