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TAMPA, FLA. - A man nicknamed "Lieutenant Dan" has captured quite a bit of attention in Tampa as Hurricane Milton heads to the area with a fury. Folks, keep Lieutenant Dan in your thoughts. With a sense of divine purpose, he says, “God told me to come out here and get a boat.” But there’s a catch — he doesn’t have a lifejacket. Dan isn't a strong swimmer — he’s missing a leg, much like the character from Forrest Gump . Despite this, he's convinced he’ll simply rise and fall with the floodwaters, not seeming to worry about the 180-mph winds, intense currents, or dangerous debris around him. Lieutenant Dan knows that people across the nation are concerned for his safety, but he compares himself to Noah. Last night, he was out on the water (spoiler alert: tidal knowledge is not his strong suit). These are the words on the GoFundMe for Lt. Dan: "Ahoy, mateys! We're rallying together to help our dear friend Lieutenant Dan who lives on

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ALTON - In the most recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust, Michelle Albright spoke about finding joy through Christ. She believes that people have control over their own happiness, and they can find this happiness through their relationship with God. She encourages people to focus on building this relationship to experience joy. “You have to understand that there is hope,” she said. “Sometimes you have to look for it, but it’s there. You have to be willing to work for it. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.” Albright noted that there is a big difference between organized religion and one’s personal relationship with God. As a self-described “terrible Bible-reader,” Albright often connects to God through music. She believes that people need to focus on forming their own relationship with God. “First of all, there is a big difference between religion and a relationship,”

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MADISON COUNTY - A 22-year-old Millstadt man lost his life early Sunday, October 6, 2024, following a motorcycle crash near Interstate 55, according to Madison County Coroner Stephen P. Nonn. Dylan Hardin Stanley was identified as the sole occupant of a red 2024 Honda CBX 1000 motorcycle that crashed at the 34-mile marker. Nonn said the incident occurred when Stanley was traveling southbound on the frontage road, Old US Route 66, and for reasons still under investigation, he left the roadway and crashed into the median area adjacent to the interstate. Despite wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, he sustained significant injuries. Family members became concerned when Stanley did not return home and utilized a cell phone app to track his location. They discovered the crash scene and alerted emergency services at 2:41 a.m. this past Sunday. The Illinois State Police and Worden Fire Department responded to the call. Coroner's Office Investigator Sakina Vernor pronounced Stanley

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ALTON - Local Pampered Chef consultants banded together to provide a donation to The Salvation Army. On Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024, The Salvation Army (TSA) received canned goods and a $3,200 donation from Pampered Chef. Gloria Vaughn, who oversees the TSA food pantry, noted that it’s more important than ever to help out the community. “Even though Alton is a small town, there are a lot of people that need assistance out here,” Vaughn said. “That is the purpose of The Salvation Army, to walk with Christ and to try to reach and embrace as many people as we can, to take that insecurity away from them, to make them comfortable with how life is going.” According to Vaughn, TSA’s food pantry serves around 300 people a month. They’ve seen a 20% increase in clients in recent months because of the rising costs of groceries. Michelle Anderson, a consultant with Pampered Chef, helped organize a fundraiser along with Robin Blackerby, Kathy Gleason,

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GODFREY - State Representative Amy Elik’s re-election campaign has been endorsed by several key labor and business groups. The Illinois Chamber of Commerce, National Federation of Independent Businesses, AFSCME Illinois, International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 150, Technology and Manufacturing Association, and the Illinois Manufacturers Association have all endorsed Elik’s campaign. Elik’s endorsements come as a testament to her commitment to pro-business policies and her strong advocacy for opportunities for workers. During her time in Springfield, Elik has built a reputation as a legislator who fights for economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and the creation of good-paying jobs in the 111th district and across the state. Her record includes voting to support job-creating initiatives, opposing tax hikes on small businesses, and backing reforms aimed at improving Illinois’ business climate. “I’m proud of every endorsement I have

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CHICAGO – Double double toil and trouble. An Illinois iLottery player doubled their Powerball prize by adding the game’s Power Play feature – and is now pocketing a cool $2 million. The winning Powerball ticket was purchased online for the Monday, October 7 drawing and matched all five numbers in the drawing to win $1 million. Plus, the player added the Power Play feature, which doubled their prize – scoring a $2 million prize. The winning numbers were: 18-30-31-52-63. Winners have one year from the date of the winning draw to claim their prize. So far in 2024, more than 2.3 million winning Powerball tickets have been bought by Illinois Lottery players, with prizes amounting to over $26.2 million. The next Powerball drawing is tonight, with an estimated jackpot of $336 million. Powerball tickets are $2 each, and players have the option to add the Power Play feature for an additional $1 for the chance to multiply non-jackpot prizes. Powerball drawings

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ALTON - A series of serious felonies have been filed against an Alton man accused of home invasion, domestic battery, and more. Clarence L. McCray Jr., 41, of Alton, was charged on Oct. 1, 2024 with home invasion (a Class X felony), aggravated domestic battery (a Class 2 felony), and theft (a Class 3 felony). A petition was filed to deny McCray’s pretrial release. It describes the incident, which occurred on Sept. 30, 2024, as follows: “Victim reported that her ex-boyfriend entered her apartment without permission and damaged her property,” the petition states. “He then struck her face and threw her to the ground, strangling her. Defendant then fled, taking the victim's cell phone.” The petition adds McCray has “a long history of domestic violence” including three prior Madison County criminal cases. McCray committed his latest domestic battery offense while on conditional pretrial release for battery of the same victim. McCray’s

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ALTON - Get your tickets now for the first-ever Great Rivers & Routes Craft Beverage Festival celebrating local craft beverage producers on Saturday, Nov. 2 from Noon to 4 p.m. at Old Bakery Beer Co, 400 Landmarks Blvd., Alton. A limited number of tickets are available for the festival which features signature pours from craft beer, wine and spirits producers based in southwest Illinois. Tickets are $25 and include a commemorative glass, drinks paired with food from local restaurants. There are $10 tickets available for designated drivers which includes a glass, non-alcoholic drinks and food. Purchase tickets online at: https://www.riversandroutes.com/things-to-do/buy-tickets/ “We have a wide range of craft beverage producers in the Great Rivers & Routes region who put a lot of time, energy and talent into their signature pours,” Cory Jobe, President/CEO of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau says. “They deserve a festival dedicated to showcasing their craftsmanshi

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SPRINGFIELD – Today, the Illinois Education Association (IEA), the largest education organization in Illinois, will release data from a Red for Ed membership poll showing nearly 60% of teachers, higher education professors and education support staff are considering leaving the profession. This news comes amid a critical teacher and support staff shortage both in Illinois and nationwide. “This data should set off massive alarm bells for parents, students and community members. We are in a dire situation with teacher and support staff shortages. We know districts cannot attract and retain enough talented adults to work with our students,” IEA President Al Llorens said. The data show: 94% of IEA members work additional hours outside their contractual workday. 97% spend their own money on supplies for their students and classrooms, with one in four educators spending at least $500 on things like pencils, furniture and hygiene products. 59% are considering

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GRANITE CITY - Granite City High School congratulates four graduates who are entering the GCHS Wall of Fame Class of 2024. Thomas Miner Jr. (Class of 1990), James V. Rooney (Class of 1996), Cory L. Simpson, Md, PhD (Class of 1999) and Sharon (Koesterer) Van Meter, W.M.C.S. (Class of 1975 North) will be honored on Friday, Nov. 8, 2024 during induction ceremonies in the GCHS atrium. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner will be served at 6 p.m., followed by the induction ceremony at 7 p.m. To reserve a table of eight seats for $200, please email GCHS Wall of Fame Chair Daren DePew: depewdaren1@gmail.com Thomas Miner Jr. - Class of 1990 Thomas Miner Jr. is a former Colonel in the United States Air Force (USAF), a position he held until his retirement in 2020. While in the USAF he served as the commander of five organizations. He had the honor and privilege of leading the air forces’ premier global airborne contingency response unit, nuclear security for the nation’s largest

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Welcome to another edition of This Day in History! Today, we take a look at October 9th, a date that has witnessed a remarkable array of historical milestones across the globe. In 1967, the revolutionary figure Che Guevara was executed in Bolivia. Guevara, an Argentine Marxist revolutionary, was instrumental in the Cuban Revolution alongside Fidel Castro. His legacy continues to spark debate and admiration, representing a symbol of rebellion and the fight against imperialism. His death on this day marked the end of an era for many who viewed him as a beacon of hope for oppressed people worldwide. Another significant event occurred on October 9th, 1986, when the American singer and songwriter John Lennon was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Lennon, a member of the legendary band The Beatles, was a cultural icon whose music and activism left an indelible mark on the music industry and society at large. His induction into the Hall of Fame was a recognition

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ALTON — Fast Eddie's Bon Air in Alton has welcomed new co-owners Ross and Dawn Laux, for the popular establishment known for its vibrant atmosphere and community engagement. Ross Laux expressed his excitement about the new venture, stating, "I’m thrilled to share that we’ve officially purchased half of Fast Eddie's Bon Air and have taken over the day-to-day operations." He emphasized his commitment to continuing the legacy established by the Sholar family, who previously owned the venue. "My mission is to continue making this place the greatest bar in the world while pushing it forward," he said. The Lauxes have a history of setting and achieving goals, which Ross described as his "driving force." He reflected on the lessons learned throughout his journey, stating, "Every goal has taught me valuable lessons — through the highs and lows — and each one has shaped who I am today." He aims to connect with employees and customers to understand how to evolve

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COLLINSVILLE - Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 unveiled design plans Wednesday morning, Oct. 9, 2024, for the upcoming Collinsville Area Vocational Center expansion. The architectural plans and renderings were shared publicly for the first time at the future site of the new facility at the intersection of South Morrison and Caseyville Roads in Collinsville. The property is located across the road from the existing facility and Collinsville High School campus. Representative Katie Stuart was among the guests who got the first look at the vision for the new CAVC. She was an early and strong advocate for this project which aligns with the State of Illinois' focus on Career and Technical Education (CTE). “Representative Stuart was instrumental in securing the appropriation and allocation for CAVC to serve as a workforce pipeline in our area and provide career opportunities for students from ten school districts in the metro-east,” said Collinsville CUSD Superintendent

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GLEN CARBON - Glen Carbon Police Chief Todd Link was honored on Tuesday night for building up the GCPD and its morale over his three decades of law enforcement service. Mayor Bob Marcus presented Chief Link with the Meritorious Service Award at this week’s Village Board meeting. Officers from multiple police departments, including his own, submitted 35 letters in support of Link. Among the many attendees were Retired Chief Scott Penny from the Fairmont City Police Department and John Cunningham, former NAACP president and personal friend of the chief. From boosted morale to equipment upgrades , new officer hires , a $1 million expansion of the GCPD Dispatch Center , and more, Public Safety Administrative Supervisor Coleen Schaller said Chief Link’s “true leadership” has ushered in a new era for the department. “The Glen Carbon Police Department has not always been great,” Schaller said. “10 years ago, Chief Link did not inherit

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GODFREY – Lewis and Clark Community College enrollment continues to trend upward, closing out the Fall 2024 enrollment period with 4,606 total students – up 9.77 percent over Fall 2023 – taking a total of 36,883.5 credit hours, also up more than 5 percent over last year. Ethnicity Asian 1.24% Black or African American 9.25 % Hispanic 4.52% Two or More Races 3.54% Unknown 3.58% White 77.50% Gender Female 57.17% Male 42.83 % Age 17 and Under 40.47% 18 - 19 24.23% 20 - 24 19.82% 25 - 29 5.08% 30 - 34 3.56% 35 - 39 2.41% 40 - 44 1.91% 45 - 49 1.15% 50 - 54 0.52% 55 - 59 0.26% 60 and Over 0.59% Residence In-district 94.62% Out-of-district 4.39% International 1% " v:shapes="_x0000_s1026" style="width: 3.3333in; height: 6.052in;">“The Lewis and Clark team of faculty and staff is doing excellent work to advance the college,” said President Ken Trzaska. “I am proud of our efforts. Enrollment continuing to trend in a positive manner is a reflection

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MADISON COUNTY – The Salvation Army Madison County Corps Advisory Council announced today that John and Cathy Keller will lead the 2024 Red Kettle Campaign, which aims to raise $422,000 to support local families in need. This goal marks a 20% increase from the previous year’s fundraising efforts. John Keller, who has served as president of the RiverBend Growth Association since 2017, emphasized the importance of community involvement. “I’ve always been a believer in giving back locally,” he said. “Whether it’s through volunteerism or donations, giving increases personal pride in your community. By volunteering to ring or donating to the kettle, you’re helping those in need, right here in the Riverbend.” The campaign will run from November 29 to December 24 at participating area businesses. Due to a shortened season, bell ringing will begin early on November 18 at Dierbergs locations. The Salvation Army also expressed gratitude

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ALTON - As a teacher, Amy Green knows the importance of being there for her students. In fact, she’s there for them even seven years after they were in her class. Every year, Green sends a lucky penny and a note to the graduating Alton High School seniors who were in her fifth grade class. It’s a powerful reminder to the students that she is still rooting for them, and it means a lot to Green, too. “Sometimes I do long for the small-town feel, and I feel like this gives me that because then I get to hear back from the students,” she said. “It’s a little bit of community.” Green collects pennies from the current year so she can send them to her students when they become seniors at Alton High School. She got the idea from her mother, a teacher in Jerseyville who used to do the same thing. Green started sending the pennies when her first fifth grade class became seniors, about three years ago. This year, she was pleased to receive several

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ALTON - The City of Alton is moving forward with a plan to give 350 laptops to “low-income, unconnected” households in Alton with the help of Alton Forward , the nonprofit arm of AltonWorks . Alton Forward President Mark Carlie said at Monday's Commitee of the Whole meeting that these laptops are essential for maximizing the impact of AltonWorks’ $20 million fiber optic network project , which he estimates will bring high-speed internet to 95% of Alton residents. “Just because we have internet everywhere doesn’t mean we have it able to be used,” Carlie said. “We need two more things for each user - they need the internet, they need a device, and they need to safely know how to use it to its maximum advantage - and that’s where Alton Forward comes in.” Carlie said Alton Forward formed a “Digital Equity and Inclusion Task Force” to find ways to make the upgraded network accessible to more Alton residents.

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ALTON - St. Mary’s Catholic Church and School will host its annual Oktoberfest this weekend. This community staple includes fun for adults and kids of all ages. Starting at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 11, 2024, with a 5K run and one-mile fun run, families can also enjoy games, inflatables, live music, a silent auction, adult gaming, food and drinks until 11 p.m. on Friday. The fun continues from 1–11 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12 and 12–8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024. “The community gets together and has a good time,” said Carolyn Simansky, one of the organizers of Oktoberfest. “It means a lot. This is our biggest fundraiser all year long. It helps our school. It helps our parish.” The weekend’s festivities kick off at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 11, with the 5K and fun run . St. Mary’s is also sponsoring a “Beer Dash,” where participants have to keep a full cup of beer from spilling as they maneuver around a course

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ALTON - The president of Alton Forward outlined the nonprofit’s plan to bring high-speed internet to an estimate of over “95% of the homes in Alton” at Monday’s Committee of the Whole meeting . Alton Forward is “the nonprofit arm of AltonWorks ,” according to its website . According to a 2023 legislative agenda for AltonWorks, the company received $20 million from the Illinois Capital Development Board to construct a fiber optic network throughout the City of Alton. The broadband program, termed “AltonWorks FiberNet,” will start in the downtown business district before expanding throughout the city, eventually bringing high-speed internet and free Wi-Fi to the entire area. “AltonWorks will construct a fiber optic network throughout Alton that will deliver symmetrical, ten gigabit-speed, enterprise-level service to Alton residents and businesses,” the agenda states. “All users will be connected

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