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ALTON - Step into a magical holiday retreat where vintage charm meets modern festivities. Flock Food Truck Park & Bar in Alton has transformed into a stunning winter wonderland, complete with warm twinkling lights and carefully curated vintage decor and glassware that transport visitors to a bygone era of holiday elegance. "We're thrilled to welcome both familiar faces and new friends to our third holiday season," says Laura Windisch, FLOCK General Manager. "This year's experience promises to be our most magical yet, with an expanded menu and festive programming for all ages." The seasonal celebration features an impressive array of house-crafted cocktails served in vintage glassware, complemented by a new shareable food menu from Byrdies. Wednesday Trivia Nights Weekly entertainment includes free Wednesday night trivia, where teams of one to six can test their knowledge in a festive atmosphere. Brunch with Santa Families can enjoy special programming throughout

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is reminding consumers that Illinois’ winter weather rule will take effect from December 1 – March 31. The winter weather rule prohibits utilities from disconnecting eligible customers who use electric or gas as their primary source of home heating. “Frigid winters are a given in Illinois. The state’s winter weather rule offers peace-of-mind for individuals and families who might otherwise be struggling to stay warm during the coldest months of the year,” said ICC Chairman Doug Scott . To protect Illinoisans during dangerous cold, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) participants; electric space heating customers; and military personnel and veterans cannot be disconnected if they fall behind on their utility bills. The rule excludes disconnections related to theft, tampering, or safety. The cold weather rule also protects residential

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BETHALTO - Shelby Norris might be new to Meadowbrook Intermediate School, but she has spent her whole career in Bethalto and there’s nowhere else she’d rather be. Norris took on the principal role at Meadowbrook earlier this year after spending several years at Trimpe Middle School, Simpson Achievement Center and Civic Memorial High School. She knows firsthand how community-focused the Bethalto Community Unit School District #8 is, and she is proud to be a part of that environment. “This is definitely a community that leans into that Eagle Nation feel,” Norris said. “We are a community about our students. We come together when there’s crisis, but we also come together when there are good things.” As a young adult, Norris didn’t necessarily expect to become a teacher. She didn’t know what she wanted to do when she grew up, but she knew she needed to be of service. Her family taught her the importance of helping others; at

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CARROLLTON – Carrollton High School Principal Leslee Frazier is pleased to announce that four students from the Carrollton High School graduating class of 2025 have been designated as Illinois State Scholars. The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC), the state’s college access and financial aid agency, confers this important recognition of academic achievement to exceptional Illinois high school students annually. This year, more than 16,500 honorees join the other outstanding students who have been honored since the designation was first introduced in 1958.

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BELLEVILLE - A veteran employee of the Belleville Street Department was seriously injured following a collision with an SUV while he was preparing for the annual Santa Parade this past weekend in Belleville. David Harris, 64, sustained life-threatening injuries on Friday as he set up barricades on a downtown street near City Hall. The incident occurred shortly before the parade was scheduled to begin. David Harris has dedicated 36 years to the Belleville Street Department and was actively involved in the preparations for the community event. He was transported to Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, where he is currently receiving treatment. The Belleville Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision. No further details have been released at this time.

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GRANITE CITY – The Rotary Club of Granite City recognized juniors Kaden Kennedy and Lucy Klumpp as Students of the Month for November. Students were nominated by teachers, and were chosen on the basis of academics, as well as scholastic, extracurricular and civic honors and awards, and organization membership and leadership. Each honoree will receive a framed certificate and a gift card, and will be recognized at the Mayor's Prayer Breakfast on March 25, 2025. KADEN KENNEDY Three-year member of golf and hockey team ... Member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Hockey Club, Renaissance Club and Varsity Club ... Two-year High Honor Roll ... Secondary Honors ... All-Warrior Award ... Community Care Center and Relleke Pumpkin Farm volunteer ... Son of Trent and Sherry Kennedy. LUCY KLUMPP Three-year member of volleyball, soccer and track and field team ... Volunteer for Thanksgiving and Christmas Basket delivery ... Emerald Meadows HOA Lake Driver Annual Cleanup

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National Weather Service in St. Louis Meteorologist Brad Charboneau reported on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, that a light snowfall is expected to continue across the region, with initial estimates suggesting accumulation could reach up to one or two inches. As of about 10 a.m. Monday, there have been no reports of snowfall exceeding expectations, with the current totals around one inch. Charboneau noted that the heaviest snowfall is occurring in the morning on Monday, and light snow is expected to persist for about two more hours, potentially adding another dusting of snow. “We may see another dusting up to another inch, with a couple of areas close to two inches, which would be more than we expected,” he said around 10 a.m. Monday. Looking ahead, Charboneau indicated that Wednesday's forecast calls for a high near 50 degrees, which should help melt any remaining snow. However, by Wednesday night, temperatures are expected to fall below freezing, with Thursday's highs projected

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EDWARDSVILLE - SIUE’s Lovejoy Library will host an Emmy Award-winning storyteller. From 1–2 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024, students and community members are invited to Lovejoy Library to hear from Bobby Norfolk, a speaker, author, storyteller and teaching artist. Norfolk will be sharing stories about Kwanzaa and African folklore at this free event. “Bobby is a great storyteller, and he infuses history into his storytelling,” explained Simone Williams, Diversity and Engagement Librarian and an assistant professor at Lovejoy Library. “He’s a great educator who can tap into different learning styles and engage the audience.” Norfolk’s presentation is part of Lovejoy Library’s mission to celebrate holiday traditions from around the world. Williams explained that the library hopes to connect students and community members by educating them about different cultures and experiences. This connection is an important part of what

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HARDIN - On Nov. 7, 2024, the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office was notified by the Illinois Department of Child & Family Services of a possible Domestic Battery that was alleged to have occurred at a residence in Hardin, Calhoun County, Illinois. Calhoun Sheriff's Office Deputy Nic McCall with assistance from DCFS Investigators began an investigation on behalf of the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office. As a result of the investigation, the Calhoun County State’s Attorney’s Office filed a criminal information and requested a warrant for Travis L. Wooldridge, age 33, of Pearl, Illinois, for the following offenses: Aggravated Battery / Bodily Harm (Two Counts), Domestic Battery. On Nov. 25, 2024, Deputy McCall arrested Wooldridge for the aforementioned offenses, and Wooldridge was transported to the Greene County Jail where he is currently held without bail. The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office would like to thank Quincy Police Department, the Illinois Department

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HARDIN - At 11:12 p.m. on Oct. 26, 2024, a deputy sheriff with the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office conducted a traffic stop on Illinois State Highway 100, near Michael, Calhoun County, Illinois. As a result of the traffic stop, the driver, Dustin E. Black, 38, of Decatur, was arrested for the following offenses: Felony Driving While License Revoked; and, Improper Lane Usage. Black was arrested without incident and released with a Notice to Appear at the Calhoun County Courthouse. All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty.

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ALTON – Alton Pride’s third annual Thanksgiving Food Drive Competition was a huge success. Sixteen area locations participated in the competition, which ran October 27 thru November 17. A grand total of 2,817 non-perishable food items were donated over the three weeks, with about half the donations coming from this year’s winner! Partnering again with MMK Endeavors, the donated items were paired with turkeys to make Thanksgiving meals for families in the Riverbend Area and surrounding communities. This year, a total of 61 meals were distributed! Items left over after making the boxes were donated to the Brighton Food Pantry and Crisis Food Pantry. The competition's winner, having collected 1,419 items, was Pete’s Lounge. This is the third year in a row that Pete’s Lounge has won, making them a Three-Peat Top Turkey Winner! Pete’s Lounge is at 100 Big Arch Rd, Godfrey, IL 62035, near Alton Square Mall. Owner Mike Sholar takes pride in his men

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ALTON – OSF Medical Group in Alton is pleased to announce Isha McConkey, D.O., has accepted the invitation to serve as the Managing Medical Director for primary care and specialty care for OSF Medical Group in the Alton market. Dr. McConkey’s appointment as managing medical director was effective November 24. Dr. McConkey will oversee all primary care and specialty practices that encompasses: Family medicine Internal medicine Pediatrics Endocrinology Neurology Pulmonology Gastroenterology Her responsibilities will also span: Policy development and enforcement Contract management Safety and quality Patient experience Strategy Recruitment Medical education activities Additionally, she will collaborate with Dennis Sands, M.D., chief medical officer, and other members of the executive leadership team at OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center to align specialty operations with the hospital. "I'm honored to serve OSF Medical Group in

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As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with excitement and anticipation. One of the most cherished traditions during this time is decorating our homes. Creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere can enhance the spirit of the holidays for both residents and guests alike. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or simply the winter season, here are some tips to help you achieve a warm, festive ambiance in your home. Embrace Warm Lighting Lighting is one of the most critical elements in setting the mood for a cozy home. During the holidays, consider using soft, warm lights rather than harsh overhead lighting. String lights, candles, and lanterns can create a magical glow that invites warmth and comfort. String Lights : Drape them over mantels, wrap them around staircases, or hang them in windows. Opt for warm white lights for a classic feel or colored lights for a more playful touch. Candles : Use an array of candles in varied heights on dining tables or side

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As the vibrant colors of autumn begin to blanket the landscape, it's a clear sign that homeowners should turn their attention to seasonal maintenance. Fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the winter months ahead. Ensuring your property is well-maintained during this transitional season can help prevent costly repairs and enhance comfort. This article outlines a comprehensive fall home maintenance checklist, detailing essential tasks, practical tips, and examples to keep your home in optimal condition. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters One of the first areas to address during fall is your roof. The summer heat and intense thunderstorms can take a toll on roofing materials, making it essential to conduct a thorough inspection. Check for Damage : Look for missing, loose, or damaged shingles. If you find issues, consider contacting a professional roofer for repairs. Clean the Gutters : Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and ice dams in winter. Remove leaves, twigs,

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National Day of Giving, celebrated annually on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, is a heartening reminder for individuals and communities to come together in the spirit of generosity. This day encourages philanthropy, supports non-profit organizations, and promotes volunteerism. With the holiday season in full swing, it's an opportune time to reflect on the ways we can give back to our communities, uplift those in need, and foster positive change. In this article, we will explore various avenues for giving back, share inspiring examples, and provide practical tips to help you make the most of this meaningful day. Understanding the Importance of Giving Back Giving back is more than just a charitable act; it’s a commitment to fostering a culture of empathy and support. National Day of Giving serves as a catalyst for philanthropic engagement and community involvement, reinforcing the idea that even small acts of kindness can create significant impacts. When individuals and organization

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As the leaves turn vibrant hues of orange, red, and gold, and the crisp air signals the arrival of fall, there's no better way to embrace the season than with a steaming bowl of soup. Not only do soups provide warmth and comfort, but they also allow for creativity in the kitchen. With an abundance of seasonal ingredients available, fall offers a unique opportunity to explore flavors that are rich, hearty, and satisfying. Here’s a guide to some of the best fall soups to make this season, along with tips for preparation and variations to try. Celebrating Seasonal Ingredients Fall is a time when harvests yield a bounty of vegetables and grains. Ingredients such as pumpkins, squash, sweet potatoes, and root vegetables are at their peak. Additionally, hardy greens like kale and collard greens become staples in many fall recipes. Incorporating these seasonal ingredients not only enhances the flavor of your soups but also ensures you are eating with the rhythms of nature. Top Fall

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In the holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and connection with loved ones. Among the various traditions that mark this festive period, gift-giving stands out as a meaningful way to express appreciation and affection. While store-bought gifts are always an option, creating something unique and personal can carry even more significance. DIY gifts not only allow for creativity but also often come with a smaller price tag. Here’s a look at some engaging and thoughtful DIY holiday gift ideas that you can make right at home.Photo Gifts Photo Albums and Scrapbooks One of the most heartfelt gifts you can create is a personalized photo album or scrapbook. Gather your favorite photographs with the recipient and compile them into a beautiful album. You can enhance the experience by adding captions, memories, and decorative elements like stickers and washi tape. This thoughtful gesture not only showcases memorable moments but also provides a lasting keepsake. Custom Framed

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Welcome to another edition of This Day in History, where we take a fascinating journey through time and explore significant events that have shaped our world. Today, we’re focusing on December 2nd, a date that has witnessed a myriad of pivotal moments across various categories globally. From groundbreaking scientific advancements to cultural milestones, let’s dive into some of the most notable events that occurred on this day. One of the most impactful global events to occur on December 2nd took place in 1942 when the first controlled nuclear chain reaction was achieved. In a secret laboratory under the stands of Stagg Field at the University of Chicago, physicist Enrico Fermi and his team successfully initiated a self-sustaining nuclear reaction. This monumental achievement marked a significant milestone in the development of nuclear energy and weaponry, setting the stage for the future of atomic research and the subsequent use of nuclear power in both energy production

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A retired educator couple with a history of giving is adding to their impact with a transformational gift to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Jim and Madeleine Haine of Stevens Point, formerly of Alton, Illinois, have committed an additional $500,000 to the Sentry School of Business and Economics at UW-Stevens Point, bringing their lifetime gifts to more than $822,000. Their contributions will continue to strengthen recruitment efforts and expand opportunities for students by creating new spaces and programs within the Sentry School. In honor of their generosity, the Sentry School of Business and Economics administrative suite will be named the James and Madeleine Haine Office in the remodeled Sentry Hall, set to open in 2028. The office will serve as the decision-making hub for the Sentry School, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the Haine’s contributions. Jim and Madeleine are both graduates of the class of '61 at Marquette Catholic High School in Alton. Jim

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Welcome to This Day in History! Today, we take a journey through time to explore significant events that occurred on November 30th and December 1st across the globe. One of the most impactful events that resonates through the ages occurred on November 30, 1835, when Mark Twain, one of America’s literary giants, was born in Florida, Missouri. Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known by his pen name Mark Twain, became a pivotal figure in American literature, renowned for his wit and social commentary. Twain's works, such as 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' and 'Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,' are celebrated for their deep exploration of themes like racism, identity, and the human experience. His unique narrative style and ability to capture the complexities of American life have left an indelible mark on literature and continue to influence writers and thinkers around the world. Fast forward to 1939, and we find ourselves in a world on the brink of war. On this day, the Soviet Unio

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