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BENTON – A district judge sentenced a Marion man to 97 months’ imprisonment for receiving and possessing child pornography. Michael D. Mitchell, 36, pleaded guilty in May to two counts of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to prosecute individuals who view and upload child sexual abuse material, and a federal prison sentence is warranted for those who contribute to the online sexual exploitation of children,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “I commend our FBI partners for their efforts to identify and investigate child predators.” According to court documents, federal law enforcement received an online tip from an internet platform for a user uploading child pornography. Agents tracked the IP address associated with the user to Mitchell’s Marion residence. Following a subsequent search of Mitchell’s phone, agents recovered eight

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EAST ST. LOUIS — In response to recent threats, law enforcement, in collaboration with the FBI, conducted a comprehensive search at East St. Louis Senior High School and Mason/Clark Middle School on Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 18, 2024. East St. Louis Superintendent Arthur Culver said the search, which involved K9 units trained to detect weapons and explosives, yielded no findings of weapons or contraband, confirming the campuses are safe. A suspect believed to be responsible for the online social media threats has been apprehended and is currently in custody, Culver said. Authorities are continuing to work closely with the school district to ensure the ongoing safety and security of students and staff. Culver expressed his gratitude for the efforts of law enforcement and the cooperation of the school community. "Once again, I commend the outstanding efforts of our law enforcement partners that have worked diligently to ensure the safety of our school communities," Culver

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EAST ALTON – Jayde Kassler, a senior at East Alton-Wood River High School, is a key to the Oilers' success in the 2024 girls volleyball season at her libero position. Kassler has been named the Midwest Members Credit Union Female Athlete of the Month for her exceptional performance in volleyball. Kassler, who has been playing volleyball since seventh grade, expressed gratitude for her parents' unwavering support. "I would like to thank my parents for always supporting me and allowing me to play club volleyball. Last winter, I played with the club RVA. My parents always pushed me to be better and drove me to far tournaments and invested so much of their own time into me," Kassler said. Under the guidance of her Oilers girls volleyball coach, Bethany Billingsley, Kassler has achieved significant milestones in her volleyball career. She secured a starting spot on the varsity team as a sophomore and has been awarded Most Digs and Rookie of the Year multiple times. Additionally,

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MARYVILLE – Quick action by Maryville and Glen Carbon firefighters on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, prevented potential fire problems at Barry Wilson Funeral Home. Firefighters responded to a call at 6:58 a.m. Tuesday and contained smoke in a single room, thanks to their swift efforts. Maryville Fire Chief Doug Dankenbring praised the firefighters' rapid response. "It was quick recognition and quick mitigation," he said. "Everything fell into place. We arrived within four minutes of the dispatch." The incident began when a construction worker, who had entered the building, noticed an electrical burning smell. The worker identified the affected room, closed the door to contain the smoke, evacuated the building, and called 911. The first fire engine arrived within four minutes, guided by the construction worker and law enforcement to the affected room. The fire chief also praised the construction worker for his efforts in helping clear the building. Firefighters discovered that an

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ST. LOUIS — A group of area jet ski enthusiasts, loosely known as “The Jet Ski Mafia,” embarked on their annual ride from island 522 to the Arch recently. The event, organized by Victor Leinger, saw 11 jet skis and one small boat traversing over 60 miles round trip through the Mississippi River's industrial areas, a route seldom frequented by pleasure craft. Participants, including Krystal Kientzel and Danno Demanno, shown in photo above, navigated through two locks and the shipping canal to reach their destination. Tim Crawford, a rider from Glen Carbon, noted that most participants hail from St. Charles. "We stopped on a few sand bars to relax and enjoy the beautiful day," Crawford said. "It was a chance to cement our friendships as fellow river rats." After completing the journey, the group relaxed at the Alton Marina, reflecting on the unique experience. Crawford emphasized that these rides, which occur multiple times each boating season, are meticulously planned

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski’s Clear Communication for Veterans Claims Act unanimously passed in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation will make it easier for veterans to access the benefits they’ve earned by requiring the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) to eliminate overcomplicated language in written communications with veterans. Budzinski introduced the legislation with Congressman John Duarte (R-CA-13) and Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost (R-IL-12). WATCH: Budzinski Discusses VA Correspondence Bill WATCH: Budzinski Discusses VA Correspondence Bill “Every day, my office hears from veterans who are struggling to access the benefits they’ve earned because of confusing processes and overcomplicated documents,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “I’m proud that my legislation with Congressman John Duarte has passed the House with broad bipartisan support

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ST. LOUIS - Starting today, and continuing through Tuesday, Oct. 1, Schnucks customers will be able to contribute to the United Way at checkout simply by rounding up their grocery purchases to the nearest dollar. Those customers who use self-checkouts and wish to donate may choose a $1, $3 or $5 “Scan and Give” option. Schnucks Rewards members also have the opportunity to donate their rewards points to United Way as part of the Donate Your Rewards program. Schnucks has a decades-long history of supporting United Way, and during last year’s company campaign, teammates, customers and the company donated more than $2.3 million - including more than $110,000 from the Round Up at the Register. “Our customers’ generous round ups enable United Way to provide stable funding to a network of high-performing nonprofits that address a breadth of needs throughout the year to serve immediate basic needs and provide long-term support,” said Schnucks Chairman and

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ALTON - Marquette Catholic High School will be hosting its annual Homecoming Block Party on Saturday, September 21, in front of the school at 219 E. 4th Street. "This is a great event to bring together our alumni, parents, past parents, and everyone in the Marquette Catholic family,” said Maggie Kohl, Marquette’s new Director of Alumni Relations. “While we will draw the $50,000 Mega Raffle and free tuition tickets, you don’t need to buy Mega Raffle tickets to attend. We just want everyone in the Marquette community to come have fun and celebrate all things Marquette Catholic with their friends,” Kohl said. “A $500 attendance prize will be drawn for those who attend and are present at the time of the drawing at approximately 9:45 pm.” Mega Raffle tickets may be purchased at the event or online at www.marquettecatholic.org/megaraffle. The event will feature dueling pianos by the country's top dueling pianos group, Howl at the Moon, from

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SAINT LOUIS - Unhoused or at-risk veterans can receive resources, assistance with their VA benefits, and more at the upcoming Stand Up/Stand Down for Homeless Veterans event. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, at Soldiers Memorial in St. Louis, veterans can access a variety of resources and services. There will be a separate area for women veterans only. “I was just totally blown away by the amount of stuff they can provide,” said Kelly Vandersand, a veteran with the St. Louis Service Women’s Post 404 American Legion. During the event, there will be experts onsite to help veterans understand their VA benefits. The St. Louis Food Bank will provide a food truck with nonperishable food, and H.E.R.O.E.S Care will offer hygiene packs and haircuts. Some basic health services will be available. Massage therapists and a reiki expert are also expected to be there, among other resources. Organizers also have 50 free bus passes available for veterans in

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ALTON — The anticipation is building at Marquette Catholic High School as students prepare for the upcoming coronation ceremony. The event, set to take place at 10 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, in the school gymnasium, will see the crowning of the new homecoming king and queen. The candidates for queen, in the photo above, in the front row from left to right, are Grace Stoverink, Lily Covert, Maya Stephan, Kennedy Eveans, Skye Heru, Kel’C Robinson, and Chloe Steele. Representing the candidates for king, standing in the back row from left to right, are Rodger Zawodniak, Drew Thomeczek, Jude Keller, Quinn Copeland, Keevan Carter, Alex McCloud, and Will Fahnestock. This annual event is a highlight of the school year, drawing students, faculty, and family members together to celebrate school spirit and student achievements. The coronation ceremony is traditionally held in the gymnasium, a venue that has hosted countless memorable moments for the school community. The

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ALTON - There’s a new nonprofit in the Riverbend region, and they’re asking for help to make sure local kids have a great holiday season. Riverbend Rescue, founded by Adam Marburger, has been helping families buy Christmas gifts for about five years. But this is the first year that the organization is spreading the word about their mission and asking for donations. Their “Keys for Kids” fundraiser is planned for Nov. 16, 2024, and Marburger encourages people to donate. “As an entrepreneur, it’s an entrepreneur’s due diligence, their obligation, to give back to the community,” Marburger said. “I want to be vocal to other entrepreneurs: Let’s spend some money. Literally. Let’s not be greedy. Let’s pull the freaking wallet out of your back pocket. And whether it’s my nonprofit or any nonprofit or going down to the food shelter or doing whatever it is, you are to contribute to your local community.”

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From family-friendly festivals to unique workshops and live music, the upcoming events promise a diverse and exciting array of activities for everyone. For a full listing of events and to plan your outings, visit https://www.riverbender.com/events/. If you want to make sure even more of the region is aware of your event email cj@riverbender.com and explore our range of Event Promotion Services! Featured Discover the excitement of the Basket Auction Online hosted by the Women's Fellowship at Evangelical United Church of Christ. From September 14 to September 21, more than 100 themed baskets will be available for bidding. These baskets cover a wide range of interests including kids' activities, home decor, holiday items, sports, books, and much more. Perfect for gift-giving or personal use, this auction offers something for everyone. Auction proceeds will benefit church and community projects. Don't miss out on this opportunity to support a great cause while finding unique items!

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Every day holds the essence of history, and September 19 is no exception. Discovery of Ötzi the Iceman (1991) Fast forward to 1991, and we find another significant event etched into the annals of history. On September 19, a couple of German tourists stumbled upon a well-preserved mummy in the Ötztal Alps on the Austrian-Italian border. This discovery, later named Ötzi the Iceman, provided an unprecedented glimpse into the life of a man who lived around 3300 BCE. The discovery has since transformed our understanding of prehistoric times, offering insights into ancient diets, clothing, and even medical practices. New Zealand Grants Women the Right to Vote (1893) Traveling further back in time, September 19, 1893, marks a landmark victory in the fight for gender equality. On this day, New Zealand became the first self-governing country to grant women the right to vote. This historic milestone was the culmination of years of tireless campaigning by suffragists,

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GRAFTON – The Grafton Chamber of Commerce and local businesses are excited to announce the "3rd Thursday" event, a monthly celebration of the vibrant spirit of Main Street Grafton. Held on the third Thursday of each month from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, this community gathering promises to be an exciting evening filled with late-night shopping, live entertainment, and special offers from local vendors. What to Expect: Late Night Shopping : Explore Grafton’s charming boutiques and stores after hours with exclusive sales and giveaways. Live Music : Enjoy the tunes of local musicians as you stroll down Main Street. Food & Drink Specials : Savor delicious offerings from Grafton’s renowned restaurants and bars, all providing special deals for the evening. Sales & Product Demos : Take advantage of unique promotions and product demonstrations at participating businesses. There will be many businesses participating including: Pajarito Grafton Fudge and Ice Cream

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) announced her support for the bipartisan Pharmacists Fight Back Act which would prohibit large Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) from manipulating drug prices and restricting network access and patient choice in federal healthcare plans. Under the current system, PBMs act as middlemen between manufacturers, insurers and pharmacies - inflating drug prices at the expense of patients, community pharmacies and American taxpayers. PBMs frequently require patients to get brand-name medications even when a cheaper generic version is available. The Pharmacists Fight Back Act cracks down on these predatory practices by implementing a transparent pharmacy reimbursement model using market-based pricing. It also removes the ability of PBMs to restrict patient choice through network exclusions and protects community pharmacists by prohibiting PBMs from steering patients toward PBM-affiliated pharmacies. “For

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EDWARDSVILLE/MARINE - The Madison County Board has approved a truck stop to be built at 2977 State Route 4 in Marine. The proposal was originally denied by the Zoning Board of Appeals. The Building and Zoning Committee then voted to deny the board’s denial, thereby voting to recommend that the Madison County Board approve the proposal. At their regular meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024, the Madison County Board voted to approve a special use permit that will allow the truck stop to be built. During the public comments portion of the meeting, six people spoke in opposition to the truck stop and four people spoke in favor of the truck stop. Those in favor included John Wortman, the owner of Jack Flash and Wortman Development, which filed the special use permit. “I am a good person,” Wortman said. “We run a clean business, and I promise you that if you had the opportunity to talk to these neighbors a year after we get this built and ran, they’ll

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COLLINSVILLE — Eric Sullivan, 54, has been missing since early Thursday morning, with his family expressing deep concern over his sudden disappearance. Sullivan was last seen at the FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing Track dorms in Collinsville, Illinois, at approximately 2:30 a.m. He reportedly went to his car to retrieve something and did not return, according to his paramour. Sullivan's vehicle, a gold 2009 Chevrolet Malibu belonging to his grandmother, was also found to be missing. Family members have stated that Sullivan has not been in contact with them or his children since his disappearance, which they describe as highly unusual and alarming. Local authorities, including the Collinsville Police Department, Illinois State Police, and Franklin County Sheriff's Department, have been notified and are actively investigating the case. Family members have also been on-site at the track, inquiring about potential surveillance footage that could provide clues to Sullivan's

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JACKSONVILLE - State Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) announced the winners of the third and final round of his photo contest for 2024. The top photographs were taken by Rebecca Kitson of Jerseyville and Lily Wilson of Winchester. "It is not surprising to me that both of the winners have an agricultural subject matter because our top industry in the district and state is farming,” said Rep. Davidsmeyer. “Rebecca’s picture captures a single cow grazing through the light fog of a beautiful morning sunrise while Lily’s photo focuses in on the beginning of the lifecycle of ‘America’s Crop’--a soybean sprout.” Constituents of all ages in the 100th District were invited to participate in the photo contest to capture the beauty and diversity of this west-central Illinois district. They were encouraged to show off their skills and take a picture of a local landmark, wildlife, or an event in the 100th District and submit it to the Representative.

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Video of the event will be posted here : https://cms.illinois.gov/agency/media/video/videos.html Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today hosted a celebration to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the work of community leaders from throughout the state. The event was an opportunity to reflect on the great achievements of Hispanics and present awards to eight Latino leaders, including the associate head coach of the University of Illinois men’s basketball team, a Chicago Public Schools educator, a leader in organized labor, and an artist/entrepreneur. “Today, we are formally recognizing the contributions of some of our Hispanic and Latino neighbors,” Frerichs said at the event held at the state government building at 555 W. Monroe St in Chicago. “We thank them for their longtime dedication and celebrate their work in making our communities better places to live, work, and raise families.” Hispanic Heritage Month is a national observance

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ALTON - Success is an annual occurrence for Alton Memorial Health Services Foundation’s Duck Pluckers, Deer Skinners and Fish Hookers Ball. The 15th edition held Sept. 14 raised more than $206,000. Funds will go toward the purchase of another Alton Memorial Hospital ambulance equipped with $125,000 worth of life-saving equipment. “The support we receive at this event from our community each year has been spectacular,” says AMH president Dave Braasch. “This year was no exception. The unwavering support from our community allows us to keep our hospital-based ambulance fleet equipped with the latest technology and road-ready. I’d like to shout out a big ‘Thank You’ to the people who sponsored the event, worked at the event, and came and donated at the event.?Your contributions in maintaining and enhancing Emergency Medical Services in our region are commendable.” AMH is the largest hospital-based ambulance service in the area, covering nearl

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