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I didn’t think I was afraid to fly until I was at the airport, and then I was terrified. This Labor Day weekend, I found myself on a trip to Colorado. There will be more to come on the trip itself, but first, I had to conquer the flight there and back. The last time I stepped foot in the airport, I was 17 and invincible. Now I’m 24 and just a little more wary. I was nerved up about the flight, but even the process of getting to the airport and making it through security made me anxious. I spent 30 minutes the night before the flight looking up the rules on liquids and the security checks, at one point literally googling the phrase “how does the TSA work.” With this level of anxiety, I was legitimately quivering by the time we got to the security check. And, of course, it passed without incident. (I learned nothing from this; I was equally nervous before the security check on the flight home. But hey, at least we made it through.) Once we got through

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GLEN CARBON — The Schmidt triplets of Father McGivney Catholic High School are off to a promising start for the 2024 boys cross country season. Aidan, Liam, and Connor Schmidt posted impressive times at the Mascoutah Cross Country Invite this past weekend. The Schmidt triplets are Byron, Carlson, Petri and Kalb Male Athletes of the Month, highlighting their contributions to the Griffins' cross country and track teams. Aidan Schmidt finished as the Griffins' second runner, placing 28th with a time of 17:56 in the three-mile race. His brother, Liam Schmidt, followed in 38th place with a time of 18:21, while Connor Schmidt secured the 63rd spot. The triplets also showcased their talents at the Illinois State Boys Track and Field Meet at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston last spring. The foursome of Tyler Ahring, Liam Schmidt, Levi Huber, and Will Rakers improved their 4 x 800m relay time to 8:30.55, finishing in 20th place. This marked a significant improvement, as the

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O'FALLON — Ruth Ann Grandcolas, a cherished figure in the Belleville East High School community, died on Aug. 30, 2024, at the age of 90. Known for her dedication and kindness, Ruth served as the principal's secretary at Belleville East High School for 35 years before retiring in 1999. Ruth's long-standing commitment to the school and students earned her a place in the Belleville East Hall of Fame. Ruth was born in 1934 and graduated as the valedictorian of her class at Belleville East in 1952. She continued her education at Millikin University. She married her high school sweetheart, Al Grandcolas, and they shared 39 years of marriage. Ruth is survived by her two sons, Mike and Jeff Grandcolas, and her five grandchildren: Michelle Howard, Andrea Piorkowski, Carly Irvin, Corinne Brownlow, and Caitlin Grandcolas. Additionally, she leaves behind five great-grandchildren: Kade, Levi, and Elyn Howard, and Jax and Ethan Piorkowski. Ruth was predeceased by one of her sons, Tim. Ruth'

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ALTON - The Alton Memorial Health Services Foundation will host its 15th annual Duck Pluckers, Deer Skinners and Fish Hookers Ball to raise money for a new ambulance. On Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, community members can enjoy raffles, a live auction, skeet and trap shooting, a quail flush, a steak dinner, live music from the Glendale Riders, and more at Nilo Farms. The money from ticket sales and the raffles will go toward the Alton Memorial Health Services Foundation. They hope to raise $200,000 to purchase a new ambulance for Alton Memorial Hospital. “Everyone at some point in their lives has to use an ambulance,” said Shannon Fraley, who organizes the event. “Unfortunately, that is a true statistic. So we’ve got to make sure that we have top-notch equipment.” Alton Memorial Hospital (AMH) and their ambulances service 374 square miles in Madison, Macoupin and Jersey counties, according to Jason Bowman. Bowman, emergency medical services manager

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MONROE COUNTY - Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigations Zone 6 was requested to assist with the investigation of a single vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Hanover Road, approximately a quarter mile west of IL Route 3, at approximately 3 p.m. on September 1, 2024. Preliminary reports indicate that a Waterloo Police Department officer observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on IL Route 3. Shortly thereafter, the vehicle was discovered on Hanover Road, involved in a single vehicle crash. The crash resulted in the tragic loss of one occupant, who was pronounced deceased by the Monroe County Coroner's Office. Another occupant was airlifted to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries, while two other juveniles were transported by ambulance to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. At the request of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the ISP Zone 6 Investigations and Traffic Crash Reconstruction Teams responded to the

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GODFREY – Lewis and Clark Community College is hosting a Wellness Speaker Series focusing on various mental health topics in collaboration with Sacred Spaces of CARE. This event will take place alongside the upcoming Resource & Wellness Fair, Sept. 10. T he Wellness Speaker Series will be held from 1-4:45 p.m. in Room 113 of the Olin Science building. This event is free and open to the public. “During our annual Resource & Wellness Fair, we are excited to host a Wellness Speaker Series in partnership with Sacred Spaces of CARE,” Counselor and Associate Professor Terri Austin said. Sacred Spaces of CARE is a community organization committed to mental health advocacy and education. It is one of the many community resources featured at the fair. Schedule of Topics Time: 1 – 1:45 p.m. Topic: Tools for Mutual Health in All Types of Relationships: Addressing Our Habits and Hangups Speaker: Sherry McCrady – Luminous Life Coaching

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GODFREY - On Friday, September 20, The Nature Institute will host the 4th Annual “In Harmony with Nature”. This event is a collaboration with the Alton High School Symphonic Orchestra, conducted by Laura Plummer, and will feature some frighteningly good musical selections. “In Harmony with Nature” begins at 5:30 p.m. at the John M. Olin Nature Preserve at 2213 S. Levis Lane in Godfrey. The concert starts at 6 p.m. Attendees will have time before the show to purchase BBQ from T&S Smokehouse Food Truck. Outside food and drink are allowed, however alcohol is not permitted. Seating is not provided, so attendees will need to bring their own blankets and lawn chairs. Carpooling is also encouraged due to limited parking.

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ALTON - As the school year begins, Alton High School is focusing on the career and technical education (CTE) opportunities it offers to students. Superintendent Elaine Kane explained that Alton Community Unit School District #11 has committed to building up its CTE program by developing different pathways for students to pursue, including welding and biomed programs. These programs aim to prepare students for careers after high school. “We are paying really close attention to our career and technical education offerings at the high school. We have a strong program right on campus,” Kane said. “Our CTE teachers are outstanding. Our department is a source of pride.” Kane believes this program greatly benefits students. She noted that college is “obviously an option” after high school, as are “many other things.” But she is eager to help students learn more about the trades and other industries, and students have had a positive

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BETHALTO - Bethalto Community Unit School District #8 recently celebrated the renovation of Trimpe Middle School with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Over the summer, the middle school was repainted and new tile flooring was installed. The district also replaced the HVAC unit. Administrators and Board of Education members celebrated the renovations by cutting the ribbon on Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024. “These renovations are more than just updates to our building; they are investments in a positive learning environment,” said Laura Gipson, principal at Trimpe. “They show that we care about the spaces where our students learn and our staff work, and that we are committed to providing the best possible atmosphere for success.” Gipson noted the renovations improve the school’s aesthetics, but also signify a focus on the students and teachers who spend every day in the building. She said all of the renovations aim to create “a vibrant, positive environment

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GREENVILLE - Greenville University has partnered with the East St. Louis School District to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement facilitates a scholarship program that allows East St. Louis School District employees to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees through Greenville University's online programs at a reduced cost. This partnership provides employees of the East St. Louis School District with the opportunity to enroll in the following degree programs: Bachelor of Science Degree Majors: • Early Childhood Education • Elementary Education • Organizational Leadership • Psychology Master's Degrees: • Master of Science in Managment • Master of Business Administration (MBA) • Master of Arts Majors: • Coaching o Curriculum and Instruction • English as a Second Language • Special Education • Teaching Early Childhood and Elementary Education • Teaching Elementary Education Professional Educatio

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Welcome to another edition of 'This Day in History'! 1783: Treaty of Paris Ends the American Revolutionary War Traveling back to 1783, we find a significant treaty being signed. The Treaty of Paris officially ended the American Revolutionary War, recognizing the independence of the thirteen American colonies from British rule. The treaty was signed by representatives of the United States and Great Britain, marking the beginning of a new chapter in American history. 1838: Frederick Douglass Escapes from Slavery In 1838, Frederick Douglass, who would later become a prominent abolitionist, writer, and speaker, made his daring escape from slavery. Disguised as a sailor, Douglass fled from Maryland to New York, where he gained his freedom. His escape was a pivotal moment in the fight against slavery and would inspire many in the abolitionist movement. 1939: Britain and France Declare War on Germany September 3rd, 1939, marked the beginning of World War II when Britain

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GRANITE - The annual Granite City Labor Day and Picnic sponsored by the Greater Madison County Federation of Labor turned out to once again be a wonderful event for families and children and a way to celebrate the traditions for families. The event began with the parade through downtown Granite City, starting at Niedringhaus and State Street. Dean Webb, president of GMCFL, noted that the parade has become a tradition for union families in the community and said it brings union families together and demonstrates the pride of what the unions represented have done for the city and the area. This year's parade marshal was State Representative Katie Stuart. The parade featured a diverse group of participants, including steelworkers, carpenters, electricians, and many other skilled workers. The parade proceeded to Wilson Park in Granite City, where GMCFL hosted a picnic for union families, offering refreshments and hotdogs.

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WOOD RIVER – The Wood River Police Department attempted to stop a stolen vehicle in the area of IL-143 and Wanda Road around 5:15 a.m. Monday morning. The incident escalated into a pursuit that crossed the Popular Street Bridge and entered St. Louis. The suspect abandoned the vehicle near Arsenal Street. Despite efforts to locate the individual, police were unable to make an arrest. The vehicle was recovered by authorities. The car was reported stolen from a residence in the 800 block of Edwardsville Road in Wood River. Prior to the theft, Wood River Police had received reports of car break-ins in the vicinity.

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HARTFORD - A pedestrian died early Monday morning after being struck by a vehicle according to Illinois State Police. State troopers responded at approximately 12:15 a.m. to a crash involving a pedestrian on Illinois Route 3 at Piasa Lane, near the 5 Diamond Campgrounds in Hartford. Authorities confirmed that the pedestrian was killed in the incident. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene following the crash, Illinois State Police said. Further details about the identities of the pedestrian and the driver have not been released. The investigation is ongoing.

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ALTON - As students and staff at Alton Community Unit School District #11 settle into the school year, Superintendent Elaine Kane breaks down the District Improvement Plan. Kane welcomed the community back to school and expressed her excitement to serve in the superintendent role. “I wouldn’t want to do it anywhere else,” she said. “The 31 years that I’ve been in Alton have been so meaningful to me because of the relationships. And this is my home. I’m an Alton High graduate. Our four kids graduated from Alton. So it’s personal. The work here for me is personal. This is my community.” Kane explained that the district has spent the last 18 months working on the District Improvement Plan. Administrators and the Board of Education have categorized everyone in the district into one of two groups: the people who teach and the people who create the conditions for teaching and learning. By dividing responsibilities into these two

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Welcome to 'This Day in History' for September 2nd! World War II Ends in the Pacific (1945) Arguably the most impactful event to have occurred on September 2nd is the formal end of World War II in the Pacific. On this day in 1945, representatives of Japan signed the Instrument of Surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, officially bringing an end to the conflict. This momentous event marked the cessation of hostilities in one of the most devastating wars in human history. It was a day of relief and hope as nations looked forward to a future of peace and rebuilding. Great Fire of London Starts (1666) Another significant event that took place on this day was the start of the Great Fire of London in 1666. The fire began in a bakery on Pudding Lane and quickly spread, engulfing large parts of the city. Over the course of three days, the fire destroyed around 80% of the city, including 87 churches and 13,200 houses. Although the fire devastated London, it also led to major

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The journey into parenthood is often described as a beautiful yet challenging transition, with a whirlwind of emotions that can sometimes overwhelm new parents. Amidst the joy and excitement, many people can experience moderate changes in mood and demeanor that are often referred to as the baby blues. However, these symptoms can escalate into more a more serious diagnosis called postpartum depression (PPD). Since these two diagnoses can begin with similar symptoms, it can be hard to tell the difference initially. Baby blues are hormonal changes in the body that can cause symptoms that affect the mood. It is considered a very mild and temporary form of depression. While postpartum depression can initially be confused with baby blues, its symptoms are more extreme and persist for a longer duration. Over time, this condition can hinder your ability to care for your baby and manage everyday responsibilities. Here’s what else you should know: Baby Blues Postpartum

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CARLINVILLE - A good selection of high-quality reading materials at low prices will be available during a sidewalk book sale at the Carlinville Public Library on Saturday, Sept. 21 from 9 a.m. to noon. This will be the library’s third annual sidewalk sale, which has been a successful fund-raiser in the past. Books will be on sale for a $1 donation each at this outdoor event, which offers gently-used materials in all genres, including fiction, biography, how-to, cooking, philosophy, travel, history, and holidays. In addition to the outdoor sale, visitors may browse the usual Book Nook selections inside in the conference room, where shoppers may fill a bag of books for one dollar throughout the day. All proceeds from the event will benefit library programs. The sidewalk sale is one of many activities in Carlinville that day, including the annual Fall Festival at the Macoupin County Historical Society. “We’ve received many high-quality, high-interest book donations

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS – The Fairview Heights Police Department reported that the Midwest Wingfest at St. Clair Square Mall was closed early on Saturday evening following incidents involving juveniles and subsequent arrests. As the sun set, juveniles began arriving at the event without family members and were denied entry. According to the police, some of these juveniles circumvented the barriers by jumping fences in other areas. Fights among juveniles subsequently broke out in the parking lot outside the fenced area, Fairview Heights Police said. Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots near the Firestone parking lot, prompting further concern. Officers arrested two individuals for fighting and used pepper spray to subdue several non-compliant juveniles involved in the altercations. The situation necessitated assistance from additional police agencies. Despite the disturbances, no injuries were reported. In response to the escalating situation, event management decided to close

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DUPO - The Illinois Department of Transportation announced a right lane closure will be encountered on northbound Interstate 255 near Dupo beginning Tuesday, September 3, at 9 a.m. through Friday, September 6, at 3 p.m. Weather permitting, the right lane will be closed between exit 10 and exit 13. All entrance and exit ramps will remain open. These restrictions are needed to do pavement repair work. IDOT District 8 crews will make the needed improvements. Full access will be restored as soon as possible. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.

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