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ST. LOUIS - 2024 marked another milestone year at St. Louis Downtown Airport. The general aviation airport experienced positive trends in flight operations and tenant expansions that are nearing completion. The airport also participated in regional efforts to accelerate the establishment of a pipeline of future skilled workers for a thriving aviation and aerospace industry. With more growth anticipated during 2025, St. Louis Downtown Airport is strengthening its unique position as a premier business aviation facility located in St. Clair County, Illinois, just minutes from the Gateway Arch. Early in 2024, the Federal Aviation Administration notified St. Louis Downtown Airport (KCPS) that it now meets the standard to be recognized as a National General Aviation Airport. The designation derived from the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) identifies existing and proposed airports that are considered significant to national air transportation and thus may be eligible

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GODFREY – Lewis and Clark Community College will honor Martin Luther King, Jr. during its annual MLK Commemoration event at 12:30 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 30, in The Commons on the college’s Godfrey Campus. This free public event will honor King’s civil rights work by showcasing select signature speeches performed by Lewis and Clark students, live music by Ralph Monroe and L&C’s own Jared Hennings, free appetizers, and a keynote address by Debra Pitts, former high school administrator in Alton and Bethalto. “It’s been 57 years since his assassination, but Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s teachings are just as relevant today,” said Hennings, who is also L&C’s Student Activities Coordinator and one of the event’s organizers. “One of the ways we pay tribute to his legacy is by selecting a local leader to share his or her take on what Dr. King means to them.” Pitts was born in Gary, Indiana, and raised in Chicago,

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EDWARDSVILLE - The City of Edwardsville announced this week that businesses in the 200 block of North Main Street remain open and accessible as an improvement project progresses in the area. The project, which aims to enhance infrastructure and aesthetics, is currently under way and is expected to bring significant upgrades to the street. The ongoing construction affects Source Juicery, Ed’s Delicatessen, the Shoppes on Main, and Sgt Pepper's Cafe, including the Backstage Bar and Patio located at the rear of the block. "Customers can access these establishments from the north edge of the construction zone, which is adjacent to a public parking lot available for downtown visitors," the City of Edwardsville said in a statement. Scheduled improvements include the installation of ADA-accessible entrances, ensuring that all patrons can enter the businesses with greater ease. Additionally, fire suppression services will be enhanced, and drainage issues within that section of North

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DUBUQUE, Iowa - The University of Dubuque congratulates the following students on being appointed to the Fall Semester 2024 Academic Dean's List. Full-time students in good academic standing (registered for and having earned 12 or more letter grade credits for the term) who earn a term grade point average of 3.5 or above and who do not have any grades of Incomplete for the term are named to the Dean's List. Once grades have been submitted for any Incompletes, the Office of Academic Affairs will review eligibility again for possible placement on the Dean's List for the given term. Dean's List is awarded for the fall and spring semesters only and may be awarded retroactively. HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME Glen Carbon, IL Sasha Daughrity

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GLEN CARBON - Father McGivney Catholic School high honor roll and honor roll for first semester of 2024-2025 school year. High Honor Roll is awarded to students with a 4.0 or greater weighted GPA. 12th grade: Tyler Ahring, Kylie Becker, Julia Behrmann, David Carroll, Jane Cummins, Madeline Day, Joseph Feldhaus, Lillian Gilbertson, Isabella Harris, Milania Harris, Brynn Hawkins, Mason Holmes, Sabrina Ivnik, Andrew Kleinheider, Rachel Kretzer, Spencer Martin, Sophia Mineman, Emily Moody, Alivia Peck, Caroline Rakers, Gracelyn Ratchford, Olivia Rodgers, Elena Rybak, Carissa Speight, Evelyn Sturdivant, Spencer Sundberg, Reilly Sutberry, Lily Terrell, Isabella Venarsky, Courtney Vrenick 11th grade: Natalie Beck, Elise Bishop, Madilyn Collignon, Gretchen Ertel, Kaitlyn Foppe, Anastasia Hasenstab, Chase Jansen, Alexa Jones, Addison Knobbe, Caden Kohl, Erin Kretzer, Mia Lieberman, Sebastian Noronha, Zoe Oller, Lawson Reeves, Aidan Schmidt, Connor Schmidt, Liam Schmidt, Alexandra Uram, Elizabet

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ST. LOUIS - Ultra-processed foods. It’s not a term many of us heard 10, or even five, years ago. But that’s starting to change. We now see it in news stories and posts on social media. And there’s good reason for that. Even as more ultra-processed foods fill grocery store shelves, we’re also learning more about their possible health risks. So, what are these foods exactly? While a precise definition can vary a bit depending on who’s talking about them, there are a few simple ways to identify many ultra-processed foods. “Put simply, if you don’t see a food’s main ingredients in their natural forms — like grain, vegetables and meat, it is highly likely to be an ultra-processed food,” said Yikyung Park, professor in the Division of Public Health Sciences at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. “Ultra-processed foods are highly manipulated and contain many added ingredients and additives. In most

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ALTON - On a recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust , Kyle Lovett spoke about how his relationship with God flourished after he was rendered completely blind. Due to complications of type 2 diabetes, Lovett very quickly lost his vision in 2023. His sight has been restored following a few operations, but the experience has taught him a lot about his faith and the importance of trusting in God. “God is amazing,” Lovett said. “The faith level that I gained from me losing my sight, I don’t think I would have ever got it if it hadn’t happened that way. And I know that’s so crazy to say, but I gained so much faith because my total reliance had to become Him.” Lovett shared that he had “always been the superhero” prior to his health complications. He pushed himself to be strong and never complain. When his vision first started to fail, he struggled with the decision to seek medical help. Aro

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EDWARDSVILLE — Students at Goshen Elementary School experienced a lively performance by Circus Kaput on Friday morning, Jan. 17, 2025, marking the conclusion of their Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) activities centered around "The Gator Way." The circus-themed event, designed to engage students while reinforcing key behavioral principles, featured a variety of entertainment elements, including magic tricks and comedic acts. Throughout the performance, the themes of respect, responsibility, kindness, and safety were woven into the show, emphasizing the core values that the students have been learning. The event aimed not only to entertain but also to reinforce the positive behaviors that are part of the school's culture. "This performance was a fun way to bring our students together and celebrate their learning," said a school representative. The Circus Kaput performance highlighted the importance of maintaining a supportive and safe school environment, aligning with

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CARROLLTON - This is the Carrollton High School high honor and honor roll names for Semester 1. High Honor Roll STUDENT NAME Graduation Year: 2025 WILLIAM K. BLAND MADELINE J. BRANNAN CHEYENNE E. CLYDE SOPHIE J. COTNER GRANT T. COX MADALYN J. FAUL CALIE A. FIELD ABIGAIL G. FLOWERS LAUREN E. FLOWERS VANNA L. HOLMES KIRSTEN E. LAIR HANNAH E. UHLES JOHN P. VANDERSAND KALEY J. WOELFEL Graduation Year: 2026 SAVANNAH E. BUERKE ELIJAH L. COX AVA G. CUSTER CARSON R. FLOWERS LEXI T. HEATH JULIA A. HEIL BLAINE L. KAISER HANNAH C. LAKE TESSA F. PRICE ELI M. RHOADES MABRY J. ROBEEN GUNNAR L. SHARROW GAGE R. SHAW ALEX W. VANDERSAND Graduation Year: 2027 ALEXANDREA N. BARNETT LILY B. CLOUGH SHANNEN J. HOLMES HAYDEN R. MCMURTRIE CARTER L. OSTERMAN CHASE M. SCHNELTEN JAYCE D. STEINKUEHLER Gradua

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CAHOKIA HEIGHTS – State Representative Kevin Schmidt is launching a Business of the Month program to highlight local businesses through the 114th legislative district. Each month, Rep. Schmidt will select a business and recognize them on his social media, website, and local media and present them with a certificate to display. “The 114th district is home to so many outstanding small businesses,” said Rep. Schmidt. “I chose to start this program so we can bring more attention to some of these businesses. These businesses are truly the backbone of our economy, and I’m proud to support them with this program.” Submissions are now open, and you can nominate any business using this form or by going to RepSchmidt.com . One applicant will be selected per month. Questions should be directed to Rep. Schmidt’s District Office at 618-215-1050. Stay up to date with Rep. Schmidt by signing up for his newsletter on RepSchmidt.com.

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EDWARDSVILLE - Gabby Cook has taken on a key role as point guard for the Edwardsville girls basketball team as the Tigers get ready for the Highland Tournament and the all-important stretch run of the season in February. On Jan. 14, Cook scored six points in a 62-21 win over Belleville West, but the Tigers lost a rematch to Alton on the road 48-35 two nights later. Edwardsville has now won three of its last out to go to 9-7 on the season. Cook has made a big contribution to the Tigers, and has averaged 3.7 points and 2.8 rebounds per game, also adding seven assists and two steals along the way. In her postgame interview after the win over the Maroons, Cook sounded very positive about the direction of the Tigers. Gabby is a Spencer Homes Female Athlete Of The Month for the Tigers. "I'm pretty happy with everything," Cook said. "I think we're really gelling right now, and only up from here." West has a very young team, but the Tigers were hitting on all cylinders well against

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EAST ST. LOUIS — On Friday, Jan. 17, 2025, volunteers from the House of Miles engaged students at Dr. Katie Harper Wright School in East St. Louis by sharing stories about the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The event aimed to inspire students to reflect on the principles of equality, justice, and kindness that Dr. King championed. The reading session, which took place during school hours, provided an interactive learning experience for the students, allowing them to connect with historical themes in a meaningful way. "Through their stories, our students were inspired to reflect on the values of equality, justice, and kindness," a representative from the school stated. The initiative highlights the ongoing efforts within East St. Louis School District 189 to enhance educational experiences and foster a deeper understanding of important historical figures and their contributions to society. The school expressed gratitude for the volunteers' service, emphasizing

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CHESTERFIELD - Todd & Leslie McGill & The Wild Pickins Winery Team have announced that the business is changing direction. Wild Pickins Winery, a beloved establishment in the Chesterfield community for over a decade, closed its doors to the public on Jan. 1, 2025. The business is located at 14223 Route 111, Chesterfield, IL., 62630. The winery, which has been a gathering place for food, wine, and live music, will now transition into a private event center. Owners Todd and Leslie McGill announced the change in a heartfelt message, emphasizing that the decision was not made lightly. “What we will miss most are the incredible people who have supported us over the years,” Todd McGill stated. He noted that the community has been central to the winery's success and the memories created there. The winery's new direction will focus on hosting weddings, private parties, showers, reunions, and other events. The McGills hope that the community they cherish will continue to celebrate

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EAST ALTON - The East Alton Police Department assisted the United States Marshal's Office in delivering a felony warrant around 8:30 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 17, 2025, in the 300 block of Cobb. During the attempt to deliver the warrant, East Alton Police also made another arrest that should lead to charges, East Alton Police Chief Scott Golike said. Golike said the target for the felony warrant was not located during the delivery attempt. The chief also added that charges for the other case should be available by early next week.

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EDWARDSVILLE — Deundrea S. Holloway, 25, of Alton, was sentenced to 60 years in prison after pleading guilty to the decapitation murder of Liese Dodd, a pregnant woman, in her Alton apartment on June 9, 2022. Holloway entered his plea on Friday, admitting to first-degree murder, intentional homicide of an unborn child, and concealment of a homicidal death. The tragic case unfolded when Dodd's mother became concerned after losing contact with her daughter. Upon visiting Dodd's apartment, she discovered her daughter’s body. Dodd was nearly eight months pregnant at the time of her death. Throughout the proceedings, questions were raised about Holloway's mental fitness to stand trial, prompting the court to order psychological evaluations. At one point, he was deemed mentally unfit and received treatment at a state institution until he regained competency to face charges. In a related legal development, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled that an unborn child cannot be considered

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Rotary Club has chosen to honor Edwardsville High School student Elizabeth Strahm with the Student of the Month Award for January. Elizabeth was nominated by Edwardsville High School science teacher, Mrs. Melissa Barnett. Elizabeth is the daughter of Loren and Tara Strahm of Glen Carbon. Elizabeth is an AP scholar and a member of both the National Honor Society and Science National Honor Society. She also leads the HOSA Medical Occupations Club as President and is a HOSA state and international qualifier. Strahm also flourishes as a Spanish National Honor Society International Ambassador and serves as the Environmental Club Secretary. Additionally, she serves on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board to represent the student body and provide continuous feedback to district administration. Outside of school, she works as a CNA at Meridian Village – Lutheran Senior Services and as a math tutor. In her spare time, Strahm enjoys running

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ALTON — St. Mary’s Catholic School in Alton will host an open house from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025, at the Suddes Hall Gymnasium. Prospective families will have the chance to tour the campus, meet teachers, and learn about the school’s educational offerings, including pre-K programs for three- and four-year-olds. Trivia Night Is Saturday Night In addition to the open house, St. Mary’s will host a 90's Trivia Night on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and trivia beginning at 7 p.m. at Suddes Hall, 536 E. Third St. in Alton. Teams of up to eight can participate for a fee of $200, with prizes awarded for Best Dressed Table and Best Decorated Table. St. Mary's Has Supportive Community St. Mary's Catholic School Principal Mary Rivera emphasized the supportive community at St. Mary’s, sharing insights from a recent conversation with a parent. “I just met with a parent who shared the positivity she feels knowing

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ALTON - There are several opportunities for Mississippi River enthusiasts to learn more about the river and its relationship to Alton. At 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, Hayner Public Library District will present “Plotting a Future for Historic River Towns with Dean Klinkenberg—Reimagining Places of the Past: Historic Preservation Lecture Series” at the Genealogy and Local History Library. One week later, community members are invited to join Klinkenberg, Craig Heaton and the rest of the Mississippi River Water Trail Association for their annual “Mississippi Meanderings” event on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, at the National Great Rivers Museum. “Alton and other river towns, we have the Mississippi as a natural asset that other communities might not have,” Klinkenberg said. “We’ve always got that in our backyard.” During his talk on Jan. 18, Klinkenberg will discuss how river towns develop and where they struggle.

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SHILOH - In the wake of a devastating house fire that left the Weathers family homeless, community members are rallying to support them through a fundraiser organized by Emily Heightman and Rob Ayres. The fire occurred on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, in Shiloh, resulting in a total loss of the family’s home, although all family members and their pets were unharmed. The Weathers family, known for their generosity and active involvement in local community initiatives, now faces the daunting task of rebuilding their lives. Heightman and Ayres have launched this fundraiser to assist with the long-term recovery process, emphasizing that any contribution, regardless of size, would be greatly appreciated. “Rebuilding will be a long journey, and we’re seeking help to cover long-term recovery,” said Heightman. “Thank you for your kindness and generosity in this difficult time for the Weathers family.” To contribute to the Weathers family's recovery, donations

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EAST ALTON - A Staunton resident has been released from custody after driving under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident in East Alton with four child passengers in his uninsured vehicle. Joseph S. Smart, 35, of Staunton, was charged with aggravated driving while under the influence (a Class 4 felony), leaving the scene of an accident (a Class A misdemeanor), four counts of endangering the life or health of a child (each Class A misdemeanors) and Improper lane usage (petty offense). On Dec. 7, 2024, Smart allegedly operated a red Dodge Ram 1500 while under the influence of alcohol on West Macarthur Drive in East Alton. Smart reportedly veered into another lane before colliding with a silver 2020 Mercedes SUV and leaving the scene of the accident. The vehicle, which was not covered by an insurance policy, contained four child passengers who were ages 1, 3, 5, and 8 at the time of the incident. Smart is accused of knowingly placing the children in circumstances that

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