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CARROLLTON – A paid caregiver from Carrollton is accused of financially exploiting an elderly victim and a disabled victim for over a month. Sarah R. Baumgartner, 45, of Carrollton, was charged with two counts of financial exploitation of an elderly/disabled person, one count of forgery, and two counts of unlawful possession of a credit or debit card. From April to May of 2023, Baumgartner allegedly carried out a series of deceptive criminal acts to fraudulently obtain money on behalf of two victims: an elderly victim and a disabled victim diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Baumgartner was a paid caregiver for both victims, placing her in a position of trust with them and resulting in the financial exploitation charges. From April 1 to May 15, 2023, Baumgartner used the debit card of the disabled victim to defraud Jersey State Bank of between $500-3,000. From April 22 to May 11 of the same year, she reportedly used the credit card of the elderly victim to carry out the same

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COTTAGE HILLS - The Bethalto Fire Department responded to a serious brush fire on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. The fire occurred at the Culp Lane Overpass on the edge of Illinois Highway 255 in Cottage Hills. Other fire departments viewed at the scene were from Fosterburg, Brighton, Godfrey, and Meadowbrook. The fire was in Bethalto Fire Department's district. The fire appeared under control as of 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The firefighters battled the serious blaze in unison in a display of solid teamwork between the departments.

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ALTON - Tiana Gipson wants to give back to the community that raised her. Gipson, one of six candidates for the Alton Community Unit School District #11 Board of Education, shared more about who she is and what she stands for. Gipson currently serves on the board after being appointed in August 2023, and she enjoys the work she has done so far. “I want to continue to serve my community and give back in every way I can,” Gipson said. “I’m a proud Altonian, and even if I am not awarded this position again…I’m going to continue to still do the leg and groundwork that’s needed for our community because there was a village there for me and there were opportunities for me to succeed, and it took a whole network and system of people to help me get there.” Gipson works as a CNA in home health and hospice care. She noted that she has always loved helping others, and she feels “very honored” to do the work she does. She also

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ALTON - If you would like to find one of the most helpful, hardworking, and kindhearted individuals in the area, look no further than our most recent Remarkable Redbird, senior Ja'Miel Johnson. Ja'Miel is one of the main people responsible for allowing students into the Redbird Store during the lunch period. Students can buy candy, soda, water, and other baked goods in the Redbird Store, but if the students do not have a ticket to get in, Ja'Miel will require them to get one. He is also responsible for taking down and putting away the inventory at the end of the day. When Ja'Miel was in ninth grade, he worked in the Redbird Store stocking inventory as well and he would work on a staff of about 10-12 students. As an additional job that he has each day after school, he is responsible for checking to make sure that all doors are locked within the high school. It was estimated that he may walk over a mile each day in checking all of the doors. Ja'Miel has gained these responsibilities

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GRANITE CITY - Revity Credit Union recently announced the positions of Director at the 84th Annual Meeting. Elected to serve two-year terms as Director were Barry Stuart, Robert Ribbing, Ken Newton, and Kim Frantz. Officers for 2025 are: Ken Newton (Chairperson), Ken Shipp (Vice-Chairperson), Jim Devine (Treasurer), and Kim Frantz (Secretary). Credit unions are member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperatives that have a volunteer board of directors. This year, Revity’s Annual Meeting was conducted by their new President and CEO, John Merritt. In his President’s Report, John notes, “Your credit union remained strong this past year. Membership at year-end was 36,569, with total assets over $460 million.” Also speaking at the meeting was Kevin Shaw, Illinois Credit Union League Vice President, Regional Management. Shaw connected on the exciting management change in recent months, with the retirement of Keith Burton, former President and CEO of Revity Credit Union

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ALTON - Radley Hoener, a Marquette Catholic High School senior, has signed a National Letter of Intent to continue her athletic career in college soccer at Columbia College. The announcement was made during a recent signing at Marquette, where Radley expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity ahead. Radley chose Columbia College for its size and the community it offers. "I liked it because it was a great fit for me," she said. "It will prepare me for the next level." As a Division I program, Columbia College provides a competitive environment that Radley believes will help her grow as an athlete. She is a Tucker's Automotive Repair & Tire Female Athlete of the Month for the Explorers. Her father, Brian, is the athletic director at Marquette Catholic High School. In addition to soccer, Radley participated in basketball during her freshman year and has been involved in several extracurricular activities at MCHS. She served as a member of the Student Council for four years and was

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EAST ALTON – The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC) is hosting a trivia night and silent auction from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at the Old Bakery Beer Company. This event will benefit the March “Drink for a Cause” initiative. Participants can look forward to trivia categories such as pop culture, history, science, and river-themed questions, Environmental Education Director Jessica Mohlman said. Teams will consist of six players, with a $20 entry fee per person. All proceeds will go directly to NGRREC. “Who doesn’t love trivia, delicious craft beer, and supporting a fantastic cause?” Mohlman said. “NGRREC is doing vital work in studying and protecting our mighty rivers, which are the lifeblood of our communities and ecosystems.” Mohlman said exciting prizes await the top trivia teams, as well as incredible items in the silent auction. The Old Bakery Beer Company will have a wide selection of craf

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today sent a letter to Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy criticizing the Trump Administration’s mismanagement of federal funding for Illinois transportation and infrastructure projects. In their letter, the Senators called for more clarity on the future of transportation and infrastructure grants and formula funding for states that were included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which was strongly supported by both Durbin and Duckworth. “We are writing to express concern with the Trump Administration’s efforts to pause all Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding—an attempt that was plunged further into chaos by the now-rescinded memo from the Office of Management and Budget, which directed all federal agencies to pause activities related to the obligation or disbursement of federal financial assistance,” the Senators wrote. As the

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GODFREY – Lewis and Clark Community College is announcing the lists of full- and part-time honors students for the Fall 2024 semester. Students earning a cumulative grade point average of 3.75 or higher out of a possible 4.0 are named to the President’s List. Those students earning a grade point average between 3.25 and 3.74 are recognized each semester on the Dean’s List. Further requirements are listed in the college’s online catalog at http://catalog.lc.edu . All questions should be directed to the Enrollment Center at (618) 468-2222. President’s List ILLINOIS ALHAMBRA – Webb M. Slifka; ALTON – Chloe E. Ahlers; Madison C. Albert; Olivia G. Allen; Michael G. Anderson; Hunter M. Bailey; Gardell L. Ballinger, III; Coty B. Bertschi; Elizabeth H. Blackmon; Connor M. Bockholdt; Addisyn C. Boelter; Ava M. Boley; Samuel A. Boxdorfer; Eric R. Braundmeier; Lacey L. Broomfield, III; Callie J. Chappee; Joselyn N. Chappee; Max W. Cogan;

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BETHALTO – Zion Lutheran School in Bethalto celebrated the creativity and dedication of its young writers from kindergarten through eighth grade during the annual Young Authors Awards Ceremony on Feb. 27, 2025. Students showcased their talents by writing and illustrating their own books, which were carefully reviewed by a team of teachers. Awards were presented in several categories, honoring students for their outstanding storytelling, creativity, and effort. The highlight of the event was the announcement of students nominated for the prestigious Madison County Young Authors Program. Five of the following students will advance to represent Zion Lutheran School at the Madison County Young Authors Awards Ceremony on Saturday, April 26, 2025: Addison Rexford Lottie Rupprecht Caleb Wheeler Hudson Donohoo Scott Holmes Drew Koch Clark Schoeber Sammy Burford Maelene Wright Hunter Turner Paolo Scheffel Andrew Hunter Annabelle Bean Grace Koch Zion Lutheran School als

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ALTON - Jennifer Mallory has rediscovered joy. Mallory is the Artist of the Month at Milton Schoolhouse this month, and she is eager to display her work and share that joy with the community. Painting brightly-colored items and images that bring her happiness has helped her manage depression and burnout. In all her art, she hopes to “find joy, spread love, instill hope.” “Painting always gets me out of my head,” she said. “It’s like magic. It just makes me feel better. I pick subject matter that is uplifting and cheerful for me.” Mallory served as an art teacher for 25 years. She loved it for 20 years, and then the demands of parenthood and teaching together began to take a toll. Eventually, she made the decision to leave her job and try to find that passion for art that had once guided her. During the COVID-19 pandemic, all Mallory did was paint. She found a new style: uplifting, bright colors and subject matter that began to pull

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ALTON – Spring is just days away, the summer season will be here before we know it, temps will be getting warmer, and that means one thing – more fun in the sun. Riverbend region residents will be outside enjoying time at the lake or on the river, playing in backyards or spending time at parks. But more fun in the sun can also pose health risks and dangers – particularly when speaking of skin cancer. With our calendars telling us warmer weather is on the way, OSF Moeller Cancer Center (2200 Central Ave, Alton, IL, 62002) will be hosting a FREE skin cancer screening event on Monday, April 7, 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. This screening event is “first come, first serve.” Individuals will be seen in order of arrival. The last person to be seen will be checked in no later than 5:30 PM. For more information, please call 618-433-7609 or email Karen.K.Boyd@osfhealthcare.org . Skin cancer is the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis,

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BELLEVILLE — Local first responders will face off in a basketball game from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Belleville West High School in an event dubbed the "Battle of the Badges." The game features the Belleville Police Department and the Belleville Fire Department competing for bragging rights while raising funds for a charitable cause. Admission to the event is set at $5, with all proceeds benefiting Special Olympics Unified Schools, an initiative aimed at promoting inclusion and support for students with intellectual disabilities. The event is part of ongoing efforts by local agencies to engage with the community and support important causes. "Cheer on local first responders as they hit the court for a night of friendly competition," organizers said. "Come out, show your support, and see who takes home the bragging rights!" The community is encouraged to attend and show support for their local heroes while contributing to a meaningful cause.

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SPRINGFIELD – Hospital Sisters Health System is excited to announce “The Heart of Medicine,” a half-hour documentary on the history and groundbreaking cardiac treatments of Prairie Cardiovascular, will air March 11 at 6:30 p.m. on KMOV-TV in St. Louis, WAND-TV in Decatur and WSIL-TV in Carbondale. The program recalls the medical group’s founder, Dr. James T. Dove, while highlighting patient stories of the innovative, lifesaving care offered by Prairie’s more than 100 board-certified physicians and advanced practice clinicians, including cardiologist Dr. Ziad Issa. Dr. Issa has been part of Prairie Cardiovascular for 20 years, and in September was named Executive Director of the nonprofit organization, which stands as the Midwest’s largest group of nationally recognized cardiologists. Because of his significant contributions to the field of cardiac electrophysiology, Dr. Issa draws patients from across the country and globe to Prairie for th

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Did you know that the global fashion industry is projected to reach a staggering $3 trillion by 2030? This booming sector is not just about clothing; it’s a reflection of culture, identity, and personal expression. As we step into 2025, the intersection of technology, sustainability, and individualism is shaping the trends that will dominate the runway and our wardrobes. This spring, fashion is poised to celebrate not only aesthetics but also the deeper narratives woven into the fabric of our society. 1. The Rise of Sustainable Luxury Sustainability is no longer a buzzword; it’s a movement reshaping the entire fashion landscape. As consumers become more conscious of their purchasing decisions, brands are responding with innovative approaches to sustainability. In 2025, expect luxury fashion houses to unveil collections that prioritize eco-friendly materials and ethical production methods. Example: Brands like Stella McCartney have long been at the forefront of sustainable

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On March 11, 2025, we take a moment to reflect on significant events that have occurred on this date throughout history. One of the most impactful events in recent history occurred on March 11, 2020, when the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. This announcement marked a critical turning point in how nations responded to the rapidly spreading virus. Governments around the world implemented lockdown measures, travel restrictions, and social distancing protocols in an effort to curb the outbreak. The pandemic not only impacted public health but also led to economic upheaval, changes in workplace dynamics, and a reevaluation of healthcare systems globally. As we reflect on this declaration, it’s essential to consider the lessons learned and how societies have adapted to the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic. On March 11, 1990, Lithuania declared its independence from the Soviet Union, becoming the first Soviet republic to do so. This declaration

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ALTON - Six Alton Community Unit School District #11 Board of Education candidates shared their platforms at a candidates forum. On Monday, March 10, 2025, community members gathered at the YWCA for the forum, hosted by YWCA and the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW). The six candidates — Tiana Gipson, Aline Russell, Christina Milien, Jason Harrison, Jack Cox and Barary Macias — introduced themselves and answered 12 questions. “We recognize and understand the importance of having educated voters and making sure that the community is aware of where our candidates stand and their positions,” said Tanjela Johnson, president of NCNW. “We are here to provide a platform for the candidates, to give information so that the community can hear where they stand and so the community can be educated to vote.” Tiana Gipson kicked off the night by introducing herself as a “proud Altonian” and Alton High School alum. She has served on

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GLEN CARBON - Spencer Homes, LLC, a division of Spencer Building Companies, is excited to introduce Meridian Grove , its newest maintenance-free residential community in Madison County. Strategically located at Meridian and Auerbach Place roads—adjacent to Timberwolfe and Ginger Creek neighborhoods—Meridian Grove will be part of the recently unveiled Meridian Plaza . Infrastructure work will begin soon, with new home construction set to launch this summer. Meridian Grove’s prime location offers easy walkability to restaurants, shopping and more within Meridian Plaza and nearby commercial developments. Plus, the added convenience of being just minutes from access to I-270 and I-255. “We’re honored to start Spencer Homes’ first full development in Glen Carbon and to collaborate with surrounding neighbors as well as the Village staff, Meridian Plaza development team and local officials. This type of product is limited in our area, and these will be

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GRANITE CITY – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that utility work by Ameren Illinois to relocate a gas main along Illinois 203 (Edwardsville Road) between 14th Street and 20th Street in Madison County will require one lane to be closed in each direction beginning, weather permitting, Monday, March 24. A posted detour will direct motorists around the lane closures, which are expected to remain in place through April. Between April and June of 2025, westbound Illinois 203 will be reduced to one lane from Nameoki Road to 20th Street for utility work. 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 Twitter at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information

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EAST ALTON – Helmkamp Construction Company is pleased to announce a long-term succession plan and three long-term employee promotions that will help drive the company into the future. Helmkamp, a trusted name in construction for 87 years, has grown into a premier provider of construction services for industrial, building, and life science clients. The company’s enduring success is rooted in its dedication to safety, quality, and strong client relationships. As Helmkamp approaches nearly nine decades in business, owner Rob Johnes remains focused on proactively planning for the future. Kyle Ogden has been promoted to President where he will oversee the day-to-day operations of the company as well as support business development, employee engagement, and long-term planning for the company. Ogden joined Helmkamp as a project management intern in 2007. He subsequently grew his career to Project Director, and then Vice President in recent years. He has made a strong and

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