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EAST ALTON – This holiday season, the United Way of Greater St. Louis Community Christmas program invites residents to come together, donate, and spread hope to neighbors in need. Community Christmas kicks off this month collecting money, necessary household items, gifts for children of all ages, non-perishable food and much more through early December. Residents can visit more than 100 boxes placed at participating businesses, churches, schools and organizations throughout the Greater Alton area to donate. A list of participating locations hosting a box is available at Helpingpeople.org/CommunityChristmas. Additional items needed are blankets, personal care items, new coats, hats, gloves, scarves, socks, baby formula and diapers. Monetary donations are also accepted and will be used to purchase items that are in short supply or have not been collected. Donations can be made online at Helpingpeople.org/CommunityChristmas or mailed to United Way at 707 Berkshire

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ALTON - Will Fahnestock, a star senior player at Marquette Catholic High School, is making waves on the soccer field. Fahnestock, who has played soccer for 12 years, credits his success to a strong support system, including his parents, coaches, and teammates. He was a goalie this season for the Explorers. “I want to thank my parents for providing me with everything I would need to succeed, coaches, and my teammates for pushing me hard to get better,” Fahnestock said. Under the guidance of coach Brian Hoener, Fahnestock posted an impressive streak of six consecutive shutout games. He attributes this achievement to the strength of his back line and his dedication to training with goalie coaches. In addition to soccer, Fahnestock is also a baseball player, where he plays as a catcher. He has expressed a desire to continue his athletic career in college, hoping to attend Missouri S&T to study mechanical engineering. He has maintained a 4.0 GPA while taking all honors classes,

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ALTON - Lily Covert, a senior at Marquette Catholic High School, is being recognized for her outstanding contributions to the volleyball team. Covert has played volleyball for four years in high school, along with additional years in club volleyball, showcasing her dedication and passion for the sport. Covert credits her success to the support of her parents, coaches, and teammates, stating, "They have pushed me to be the player I am today." Her coach, Mark Ellebracht, has played a significant role in her development as an athlete, she said. Covert's commitment to volleyball is evident in her qualities as a player. She describes herself as passionate, hardworking, and determined, willing to sacrifice her body to ensure that the ball never hits the floor. "I love representing my team and school on the court and strive to give my all every game," she said. In addition to volleyball, Covert also plays soccer as a center midfielder and is an active member of the Blue Crew, her school's

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As November ushers in the full embrace of fall, it brings with it a bountiful harvest of seasonal ingredients and flavors. The air turns crisp, leaves crunch underfoot, and the scent of woodsmoke fills the atmosphere, creating the perfect backdrop for hearty meals and comforting recipes. Whether you're looking to impress guests during Thanksgiving or simply want to warm up on a chilly evening, November offers a plethora of culinary delights. This article highlights some of the best fall recipes to try this month, featuring seasonal ingredients, classic comfort foods, and innovative dishes that celebrate the season. Embracing Seasonal Ingredients November is a time when many of the season's best produce comes into play. From pumpkins and squash to apples and root vegetables, the ingredients available are not only delicious but also nutritious. Here are some key ingredients to consider when planning your fall meals: 1. Pumpkins and Squash Pumpkins and various types of squash, such

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On this day, November 4, we delve into a rich tapestry of history, highlighting some of the most impactful events that have shaped our world. From monumental treaties to technological breakthroughs, this day has seen it all. Let’s take a journey through time and uncover the significance of November 4 across various categories globally. 2016: The United States Election with Global Implications Fast forward to November 4, 2016, when the United States held another significant presidential election. On that day, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump faced off in a contentious race that would culminate in one of the most surprising outcomes in American electoral history. The election was characterized by deep divisions within the American electorate, with issues such as immigration, trade, and foreign policy dominating the discourse. Trump's eventual victory was viewed with disbelief by many and had far-reaching implications for both domestic and international politics. The election

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EDWARDSVILLE - Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced today that his office will again deploy teams of Assistant State’s Attorneys and Investigators to assist the County Clerk in responding to reports of any suspected irregularities that may arise at Madison County polling locations on Election Day. On Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, from 6 a.m., when the polls open, through close at 7 p.m., prosecutors and investigators will be available to respond to suspected violations of the Illinois Election Code. State’s Attorney’s Office staff will also maintain communications throughout the day and into the evening with officials at the Madison County Clerk’s Office. This coordinated effort and open lines of communication with the Madison County Clerk will help to enforce compliance with the Election Code while ensuring that every voter properly qualified is able to cast their ballot. Anyone who has questions or is concerned about activities at any Madison

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PONTOON BEACH/COLLINSVILLE - At its monthly meeting last week, the Madison County Transit (MCT) Board of Trustees approved several service adjustments to take effect on Sunday, January 12, 2025, aimed at enhancing convenience and accessibility for riders throughout Madison County. As part of these updates, MCT will expand eligibility for its MCT Student Monthly Pass. Effective Jan. 12, college and university students with a valid student ID will be able to purchase the $15.00 MCT Student Monthly Pass. Additionally, following the success of its pilot phase, the MCT Micro service in Collinsville will become a permanent service, offering continued flexible transit options to residents in the area. The January Service Change will also impact several routes to optimize efficiency and meet the ever-evolving ridership needs of MCT passengers: #9 Washington Shuttle & #10 State & Elm Shuttle : The first #9 northbound trip at 8:48 a.m. will be discontinued due to low ridership. Adjustments

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O'FALLON — Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) marks the recent 10th anniversary of its hospice program in Illinois and National Hospice Week Nov. 11-15 by highlighting 10 myths about hospice. “HSHS Home Care began offering hospice services in Illinois in October 2014 in recognition of the growing need for this specialized care,” said Shawna O’Dell, RN, MSN, FACHE, who serves as Vice President of Care Management and Post Acute Care. “The benefits of hospice are too important to get sidelined by misinformation. I asked our experienced, trained caregivers to debunk the untruths they often hear from patients and their families.” Myth #1: Hospice care means giving up. Hospice offers comprehensive, caring support to patients with a life expectancy of six months or less. It gives patients emotional support and relief from symptoms they have as they approach the end of life, such as pain, anxiety or breathlessness. Myth #2: Hospice

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BELLEVILLE — A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the George Pappas family following a tragic fire that claimed the lives of three family members in Belleville early on Oct. 28, 2024. The fundraiser, organized by Brittany Rowan Sullivan, aims to assist the family as they cope with their devastating loss. The fire, which was classified as a two-alarm incident, destroyed the Pappas family's home while they were asleep. In addition to the loss of their residence and personal belongings, the family mourns the deaths of George Pappas's father, brother, and the father of his niece's child. The family also lost two dogs and a cat in the fire. As George Pappas, along with his mother, niece, and one-year-old nephew, faces the challenges of starting over, the community is being called upon for support. Sullivan emphasized the need for shelter and essential items, stating, "We ask the compassionate hearts of the Rowan Tire network, Belleville Community, surrounding towns,

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MARYVILLE - The Anderson Hospital Foundation 13th Annual Sporting Clay Classic was held on October 12th at NILO Farms in Brighton Illinois. The event featured 100 targets and 12 stations on two courses to accommodate the large number of shooters, the event also included a large BBQ buffet for the shooters. We had 201 shooters, which was a record amount, that came out on a beautiful fall day to enjoy this event. We thank the Sporting Clay Committee who worked hard to make this event a success and the sponsors that donated to this event and who continue to support us each year, said Lori St. John, Director of Development The event raised over $55,000.00. The Foundation allocates funds for capital projects and programs in support of Anderson Hospital. The 14th annual Sporting Clay event will be on October 18th, 2025 at NILO Farms. Please contact Lori St. John at 618-391-6426 for more information.

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ALTON — The Alton Police Department expressed gratitude for the support received from MustacheMarch4PD, an organization that has raised over $11,000 through the sale of K9 Odin shirts and donations. This funding directly benefits both the police department and the local community. The announcement was made on social media, highlighting the organization's contributions, which include a community gathering featuring cheeseburgers and fries from Tony's Ranch House, along with various sweet treats. “This is what community is all about,” the department stated in their post. “We’re proud to serve alongside such fantastic supporters.” MustacheMarch4PD’s fundraising efforts demonstrate a commitment to enhancing public safety and community engagement in Alton. The Alton Police Department acknowledged the ongoing partnership, emphasizing the positive impact it has on their operations and the community they serve. The event underscores the importance

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COLLINSVILLE — The Collinsville Police Department has recognized Officer Trent Ross as the Officer of the Month for September, highlighting his contributions to community safety and law enforcement efforts in the region. Officer Ross and his K9 partner Rocky have been instrumental in combating crime in Collinsville and neighboring communities. Their collaborative efforts often involve tracking and apprehending suspects beyond city limits. In addition to his work with K9 Rocky, Officer Ross has focused on ensuring road safety through DUI enforcement. His initiatives in September led to the removal of seven impaired drivers from local roadways. The Collinsville Police Department expressed gratitude for Officer Ross's dedication, stating, "Thank you Officer Ross for all your efforts to keep the metro area safe."

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COLLINSVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting a career fair Nov. 13 in Collinsville. The fair will be held from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Gateway Convention Center, 1 Gateway Drive. Representatives from the offices and bureaus who oversee both technical and administrative support responsibilities will be available to discuss current and upcoming employment opportunities at various IDOT locations. Attendees can learn how to apply for state jobs and attend breakout sessions. Partners from Central Management Services will be available to help explain the application process. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office will have staff present to answer questions on obtaining a commercial driver’s license for positions where one is required. The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs also will be available to provide guidance on programs and services for qualified veterans. While a limited number of computers will be available

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BELLEVILLE - Belleville Books, southern Illinois' premier independent bookstore , is hosting Grateful for Local Authors , a multi-author event featuring 10 local, self-published authors autographing their new books. This free, public event will take place on Saturday, November 16 from 1-3 p.m. Belleville Books, housed in the neo-classic lobby of a historic 1912 bank building on Belleville's Main Street, celebrates the hard work and fortitude that authors demonstrate in the creative process of conveying their dream of writing a book from dream to reality. The following authors and their new self-published books at this event Kazuko Blake, Kazuko- Sixth Grade in World War II Hiroshima Cynthia Chasteen, Mindful Movement, Language & Literacy Through the Americas Erin Litteken, The Lost Daughters of Ukraine and The Memory Keeper of Kyiv Sam Lutton, A Season in Picardy Jenna Malin, Kissing Catastrophe Larry Pearson, Balin and the Hollow Knight Patricia Sauer, Brave

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ALTON - Plans for two significant new National Scenic Byway corridor activation projects are moving forward in the Great Rivers & Routes region of southwest Illinois with both slated to open Spring 2026 along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway between Hartford and Grafton. The new Byway Discovery Center, a 4,500-square-foot visitor orientation facility will be constructed on a parcel of land near the mouth of Piasa Creek, on the Madison/Jersey County line, west of Alton on the Scenic Byway. The Center will feature new hardscapes including landscaping, parking with access for motor coach buses, outdoor gathering and learning areas, interpretive panels, an outdoor art installation, kiosks, a riverside trail, and kayak landing. The site is also immediately upstream of the US Army Corps of Engineers Piasa Creek Recreation Area and Boater Access. The center itself will include 1,400 square feet of permanent exhibit space, a gift shop, lecture facilities and publi

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EDWARDSVILLE — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) hosted a roundtable with independent pharmacists, pharmacy students and faculty at the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) School of Pharmacy to discuss the predatory practices of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). Under the current system, PBMs act as middlemen between manufacturers, insurers and pharmacies - inflating drug prices at the expense of patients with complex rebate and pricing structures. In Illinois and across the country, PBMs have forced independent pharmacies to close by steering patients to PBM-affiliated pharmacies and excluding in-network pharmacies from filling prescriptions. “Today’s conversation made clear that we must take action to rein in PBMs who have gone unchecked for far too long,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “That’s exactly why I’m fighting to pass legislation to provide more transparency, accountability and guardrails to crack down

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COLLINSVILLE - The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting a career fair Nov. 13, 2024 in Collinsville. The fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Gateway Convention Center, 1 Gateway Drive. Representatives from the offices and bureaus who oversee both technical and administrative support responsibilities will be available to discuss current and upcoming employment opportunities at various IDOT locations. Attendees can learn how to apply for state jobs and attend breakout sessions. Partners from Central Management Services will be available to help explain the application process. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office will have staff present to answer questions on obtaining a commercial driver’s license for positions where one is required. The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs also will be available to provide guidance on programs and services for qualified veterans. While a limited number of computers will be available t

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EDWARDSVILLE - State Senator Erica Harriss was joined by local farmers and the Madison County Farm Bureau on Friday as they presented her with a Friend of Agriculture award from the Illinois Farm Bureau. “I am honored to be recognized by our local farmers and the Illinois Farm Bureau with this award,” said Senator Harriss. “Our farming community plays a vital role in the 56th District and across our state, and we must continue to find ways to support our producers moving forward.” This award honors legislators in the 103rd General Assembly who demonstrate strong support for farming and agriculture. Recipients recognize the extensive impact of Illinois' agricultural products and the essential role farmers play in providing quality food, fiber, and fuel for the state and the world. “Since taking office, Senator Harriss has shown strong support for our local farming community and continues to maintain an open line of communication with our office and beyond,&rdquo

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JERSEYVILLE - State Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) is sponsoring an electronics recycling event for constituents of his district on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024 at the Jerseyville Community Hospital. Bring anything with a cord and anything made of metal to 400 Maple Summit Road in Jerseyville from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. “This recycling event is a great opportunity for all of us to clear up the clutter in our homes and garages for electronics that cannot be included with our everyday garbage,” explained Rep. Davidsmeyer. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of this event. Also, if you have neighbors who do not drive, offer to bring their items with you on Saturday.” Working with a local recycling company, Rep. Davidsmeyer encourages people to bring computer towers, printers, servers, switches and other technical equipment. Also accepted will be landline phones, cable T.V. boxes, cell phones, wireless modems, audio and video equipment, holiday lights, and even

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CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced all income-eligible households can now apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to support with utility bill assistance for natural gas, propane and electricity. Applications expanded today, Nov. 1, 2024, and will be accepted through Aug. 15, 2025, or until funds are exhausted. “With temperatures dropping and the winter season just weeks away, my administration is committed to keeping every family warm and safe,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Thanks to $226 million from our Help Illinois Families Program, we’re providing crucial utility support to thousands of income-eligible households. I highly encourage all eligible families to apply and get the assistance they need to stay warm this winter.” “Every family deserves a safe, secure and warm home, regardless of income,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton.

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