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ALTON - On a recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust, Mike Weller spoke about gratitude, doing your best, and trusting God. Weller shared that he didn’t always have a relationship with God, but since he has developed his faith, he feels like his life has improved. Not only does he believe he is a better person, but he has more appreciation for the positives and the people he encounters. He encourages everyone to live their lives according to God’s teachings. “He’s got a plan. Just shut up and listen to Him,” Weller said. “Just do it to impress Him. That’s it. Do everything with the intent of going to Heaven. How crazy is that?” Weller didn’t always have a close relationship with God. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, he began taking long walks through Alton and praying. As he reconnected with God, he gained a deeper appreciation for God’s love and mercy. “I got back in touch

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COLLINSVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has announced that southbound lanes of I-55/70 will experience periodic restrictions between Black Lane and Illinois Route 111 on December 18 and 19, 2024. The right lane will be closed from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days, weather permitting, as IDOT District 8 engineering consultants conduct surveys on the bridges over Canteen Creek, A & S Railroad, and IL 111. All lanes are expected to reopen by 5 p.m. on December 19. Motorists traveling through the area should anticipate delays and are advised to allow additional time for their journeys. To mitigate potential disruptions, drivers are encouraged to consider alternate routes when possible. IDOT reminds drivers to remain vigilant in work zones, obey posted speed limits, and avoid using mobile devices while driving. For ongoing updates, IDOT District 8 can be followed on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8, or motorists can access construction details through

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EDWARDSVILLE – In an effort to encourage a vibrant lineup of gatherings for the public’s benefit and enjoyment in Edwardsville, the City is once again offering a Special Events Grant Program. Applications are now being accepted for the Special Events Grant, which is intended to support nonprofit organizations looking to host free events in the community. The grant program was established to help offset the costs and boost the economic impact of community events that take place in Edwardsville. The 2025-26 Special Events Grant Program comes on the heels of last year’s successful round of funding, which benefited numerous organizations. Grant recipients included sporting events, children’s exhibits, festivals and gatherings aimed at showcasing history, fresh produce and crafts, diversity and cultural awareness. “Edwardsville offers a wonderful mix of creative, fun and educational events that cater to every interest,” Mayor Art Risavy said. “We

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– Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Chair of the CST Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation—issued the following statement in reaction to the Department of Transportation’s finalization of a rule that will expand the rights of passengers with disabilities. This rule mandated that airlines meet more stringent standards for accommodating Americans who use mobility devices, requiring more comprehensive training for relevant airline staff and demanding proper accountability for airlines when something goes wrong. “I know from personal experience that when an airline damages or breaks a wheelchair, it’s much more than a simple inconvenience—it’s the equivalent of breaking someone’s legs,” said Duckworth. “Decades after both the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Air Carrier Access Act became

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COLLINSVILLE — The Collinsville Police Department has named Officer Guiseppi Coppotelli as its Officer of the Month for November 2024. Coppotelli, who joined the department in March 2023, has been recognized for his proactive approach to policing and his commitment to addressing criminal activity in the community. The announcement highlights Coppotelli's efforts in seeking out the criminal element, which department officials say contributes to the safety and well-being of Collinsville residents. “Congratulations Guiseppi and thank you for your proactive service to our residents,” the department stated in a social media post. Coppotelli’s recognition comes amid ongoing efforts by the Collinsville Police Department to enhance community safety and strengthen relationships between officers and residents.

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EDWARDSVILLE - After some discussion at their regular Board of Education meeting on Dec. 16, 2024, the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board approved the 2025–2026 School Calendar. This calendar has prompted discussion at recent meetings as the Board approved construction timelines at Lincoln Middle School, Edwardsville High School and several elementary schools. During summer 2025, eight schools within the district will be under construction, which means the start date for the 2025–2026 school year will be later than usual. “As part of that, we’ve had a lot of conversations in the last year and a half about the 25–26 calendar, because we knew it would be a little bit different, and what that difference looked like, we weren’t sure,” said Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton. Because of the summer construction, the 2025–2026 school year will start one week later than usual, on Aug. 20, 2025. Shelton explained that

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GODFREY — The Godfrey Fire Protection District was recently honored with the Gold Firehouse Station Design Award, recognizing the district's commitment to creating a facility that benefits both firefighters and the community. Fire Chief Eric Cranmer emphasized the significance of the award, attributing it to the hard work and dedication of the team involved in the project. "This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication that went into creating a firehouse that serves both our firefighters and the community," Cranmer said. The project was supported by the Board of Trustees, which includes members Matt Horn, Jack Leonard, and Gerard Fischer. Their guidance and support were instrumental throughout the planning and implementation phases. Additionally, the district acknowledged the contributions of Don Wojtkowski, who played a key role in ensuring that the project was designed and delivered with precision. The Godfrey Fire Protection District expressed pride

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EDWARDSVILLE – Edwardsville Community Unit Schools District 7 has named Terese Marinelli as principal of Goshen Elementary School for the 2025-26 school year. Marinelli’s hire was approved Dec. 16 by the District #7 Board of Education. She will assume her role July 1, 2025. Additionally, the following principals will officially transition from interim to permanent roles, effective for the 2025-26 school year: Cole Kringlen at Columbus Elementary, Dr. Debbie Reid at Nelson Elementary, and Dr. Andy Williams at Woodland Elementary. Ali Hiller , interim assistant principal at Woodland Elementary, will also have her interim title removed. Marinelli will join District 7 from Harlem School District 122, where she is in her third year as the assistant principal at Windsor Elementary School. Marinelli also spent three years as the assistant principal at Harlem Middle School. She will succeed Curt Schumacher , who is retiring at the end of the current school

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ALTON/GODFREY - Community leaders recently gathered to celebrate Kreative Kids Learning Center and the people who help run the childcare program. On Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024, community members were invited to an appreciation breakfast and awards ceremony at St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church in Alton. The event highlighted people who have contributed to Kreative Kids and engaged with their mission to support children. “This is my favorite day of the year,” said Keith Neuber, Kreative Kids CEO. “It is a day when you get to give back to so many who do so much for the community.” Located at 3048 Godfrey Road in Godfrey, Kreative Kids provides childcare for young kids. The center is a division of Alton Day Care and Learning Center, and it was previously housed in the McKinley school building before moving to Godfrey in 2022. During the breakfast on Dec. 17, 2024, Neuber and Board President Terra Stewart recognized several community members who have

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ALTON - Bed Availability at Centerstone Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU): Centerstone’s CSU in Carterville offers a safe, supportive environment for adults experiencing a mental health crisis (e.g., psychosis, depression, insomnia, or feelings of hopelessness). Our counselors listen, assess, and determine the best course of action to help our patients get the care they need. Services Provided: Skill development, including coping strategies, recovery skills, and symptom management. Participation in assessment, treatment planning, and group services focused on hope, growth, and improved quality of life. 24-hour wraparound care during a short-term stay (3-7 days) Admission Details: Admissions are scheduled Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Call Centerstone Crisis Services 24/7 at 1-855-608-3560 for screening and admission.

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ST. LOUIS, MO – The holiday season, deemed the most wonderful time of the year, is a difficult time for bereaved families. After the heartbreaking loss of their infants, Co-founders Ben and Lara Gillham and Nick and Martha McGeehon started Just Enduring , a nonprofit organization that gives bereaved parents the immediate resources and support they need to navigate their journeys of grief. “During the holiday season, the ache of loss can feel especially profound as we remember the joy our children brought into our lives,” said Martha McGeehon, Co-founder of Just Enduring. “Just Enduring exists to remind bereaved parents that they are not alone, offering guidance and a community of support as they honor their children in meaningful ways. Our goal is to help families create memories that include their child, even in their absence, and to offer comfort in knowing their child will always be a part of them.” Here are thoughtful ways parents can include their

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SPRINGFIELD – The minimum wage in Illinois is increasing on January 1st, 2025. Workers will see an increase of $1 per hour from $14 to $15. The minimum wage for tipped workers will rise to $9 per hour and youth workers (under 18) working fewer than 650 hours per calendar year will see their hourly wage increase to $13 per hour. "Since day one of my administration, I’ve made it my mission to build an economy that works for everyone and raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour fulfills that promise to our working families," said Governor JB Pritzker . "This increase honors the workers who power our state and ensures they can better support their families, bringing us closer to a stronger, more equitable economy for all." "For too long, Illinois' working families have contributed to our shared home without fair compensation," said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton . "The increased minimum wage is a long-overdue recognition of those who keep us moving forward. I’m

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ALTON — Alton Little Theater (ALT) is set to welcome the New Year with a lineup of four entertainment options in January and February, featuring a mix of comedy and historical dramas. The theater will host productions that include the Midwest premieres of works by three new playwrights, as well as a concert to kick off the season. The festivities begin on January 4 at 2 p.m. with "Sing in the New Year," a concert by regional favorite Thomas M. Taylor. Tickets for the event are priced at $25. Taylor's performance will showcase popular hits from Broadway, famous movies, and light opera, promising a vibrant start to the theater's schedule. Following the concert, ALT will present "The EXES," a comedy by Lenore Skomal, from January 24 to February 2. Skomal will travel from the East Coast to attend the premiere. This will be followed by George Bailey's play "Front Porch," which will run from February 14 to 16, with Bailey flying in from San Diego for the event. The final production

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ST. LOUIS — The holidays are a wonderful time to get everyone together. Unfortunately, they can also mean a greater risk of a fire in someone’s home. This holiday season, the American Red Cross of Greater St. Louis encourages everyone to follow simple steps to prevent home fires from holiday decorations. “December is the peak time for home fires involving candles and holiday decorations,” said Barry Falke, Chief Executive Officer, Red Cross of Missouri and Arkansas. “Help protect your family by using battery-operated candles and practicing your two-minute escape plan with everyone in your household.” HOLIDAY DECORATING SAFETY TIPS Follow these safety tips and visit redcross.org/fire for more information. You can also download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores. If you must use candles, keep them away from anything that could burn, and place them out of reach of pets and children.

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) is reminding job seekers and employers that, effective January 1, 2025, all job postings made by employers with 15 or more employees will need to include pay scale and benefit information. This amendment to the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003 (IL EPA) was contained in HB 3129, passed by the General Assembly and signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker in 2023. The amendment brings greater transparency to the hiring process by giving prospective employees the opportunity to learn about what compensation and benefits the employer will offer for an open job position. Employers will also be required to extend transparency in opportunities by informing current employees about all open job postings, so that they might choose to apply. “Here in Illinois, we've taken action to close the pay gap and strengthen protections for workers — and these amendments to the Illinois Equal Pay Act are another critical

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As the chill of winter settles in and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like curling up by the fire with a good book. The holiday season offers a perfect opportunity to dive into stories that capture the spirit of the season, evoke nostalgia, or transport you to magical worlds. This article explores some of the best holiday books to read by the fire, providing a mix of classic tales, contemporary novels, and heartwarming narratives that will enhance your holiday experience. Classic Holiday Tales 1. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens No holiday reading list is complete without Charles Dickens’ timeless novella, A Christmas Carol . This story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miser who is transformed by the visits of three ghosts on Christmas Eve, is a poignant reminder of the importance of compassion and generosity. The rich imagery and memorable characters create a vivid atmosphere that captures the essence of Victorian Christmas celebrations. This tale is not jus

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December 17 holds a special place in the annals of history, marked by incredible events that have influenced our world in various ways. One of the most impactful events that occurred on December 17 was the Wright brothers' first powered flight in 1903. The Wright brothers made their first powered flight on December 17, 1903, in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, which revolutionized transportation and laid the groundwork for modern aviation. This extraordinary achievement not only changed the way we travel but also had a lasting impact on global commerce, warfare, and tourism. Fast forward to December 17, 1967, when the first episode of the beloved animated television special, 'The Magic of Christmas,' aired. This program captured the hearts of families and became a staple of holiday traditions in many households. It showcased the potential of animation as a powerful storytelling medium and paved the way for future animated specials that continue to delight audiences today. Another noteworthy

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EDWARDSVILLE - The impressive work of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Trish Oberweis, PhD, professor in the College of Arts and Sciences’ (CAS) Department of Criminal Justice Studies, has earned her the 2025 Paul Simon Outstanding Teacher-Scholar Award . “I am honored to be counted in this esteemed group of award winners!” Oberweis said, of the University’s well-regarded and highly competitive award. The SIUE Graduate School annually presents the award to a tenured faculty member who has a proven record of combining scholarship and teaching. The recognition demonstrates the belief that to be a good teacher, one must also be a good scholar. Award recipients have made significant contributions to original research or creative activities and have successfully integrated those contributions into their teaching practices. Oberweis, who began working as an assistant professor in 2002 at SIUE, has always incorporated her research experiences

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PONTOON BEACH - As part of a multi-phase effort to enhance the bus rider experience, Madison County Transit (MCT) is rolling out an exciting new system known as Computer-Aided Dispatch / Automated Vehicle Location (CAD/AVL). Last week, new solar-powered, digital display signs were installed at 31 bus stops throughout Madison County. The screens are ruggedized, all-weather, 13-inch, “e-ink” digital screens that display real-time next bus arrival information for the locations where they are installed. Passengers can walk up to a stop and learn (in real time) the bus routes that serve that location and when the next bus is coming. These e-ink (also known as e-paper) digital signs reflect light like a sheet of paper and, unlike other types of digital screens, have the same appearance as paper, so as not to be a visual deterrent or distraction to motorists and neighbors. The technology also consumes less energy. Much larger 32-inch e-ink digital displays with the same next-bus

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ALTON - The great American Bald Eagle winter migration is almost here and southwest Illinois is ready and waiting. The Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau is hosting a party honoring these iconic birds in downtown Alton on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, launching the official start of Eagle Season. The free Annual Alton Eagle Ice Festival will be held Jan. 4, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at FLOCK Food Truck Park in downtown Alton along the banks of the Mississippi River. Eagle focused activities will also be held at the Audubon Center at Riverlands and the National Great Rivers Museum in Alton. “Eagle Fest is a great way to kick off Eagle Season and gives people the chance to celebrate the return of American Bald Eagles to the region for winter,” said Cory Jobe, President/CEO of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau. “This is a very popular festival with the visiting public and is an opportunity for people to travel throughout the Alton area and enjoy a wide variety of

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