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CHICAGO – Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) released Illinois’ 2024 Economic Growth Plan, a five-year plan to guide Illinois’ economic development priorities and programming. Building upon Illinois’ success, this plan outlines a roadmap to attract record-level investments, create jobs and support communities over the next five years while laying the foundation for economic growth for generations to come. “In the last five years, we’ve seen unprecedented response from companies that are seeing the investment made in Illinois and deciding that is the kind of ethos and vision they need in the home of their next business expansion,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We’re continuing that work more ambitiously than ever before, continuing to focus on a sustainable economic future that leaves no Illinoisan behind.” Illinois’ 2024 Economic Growth Plan is guided

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GODFREY - The North Alton-Godfrey Business Council continues shining the spotlight on local businesses, with a focus this month on Benchmark Mortgage. With plans for financial education courses and more, the company aims to give back to the community as opportunities await at future council meetings. Nathan Kerpan with Benchmark Mortgage shared more about the work they do and their membership in the North Alton-Godfrey Business Council (NAGBC) on Our Daily Show! on Riverbender.com . Kerpan said Benchmark has been in business for 24 years, but only learned about the Business Council about a year ago - and he’s already impressed with their track record. “I just saw the quality and the quantity and businesses that have been involved for over 50 years,” Kerpan said of the council. He added that the welcoming environment of each NAGBC meeting even fosters collaboration between would-be competitors working in the same industries. “We actually collaborate

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ALTON – Illinois State Representative Amy Elik and Illinois State Senator Erica Harriss have teamed up to pass numerous bipartisan pieces of legislation that aim to positively impact the Metro East. Since passing the legislation during the Spring Legislative Session, the bills were recently signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker. Senate Bill 3566 mandates landfills in counties with populations over 250,000 to provide facilities for cleaning mud, gravel, waste, and other materials from vehicles leaving landfill sites. Senate Bill 3567 aims to increase transparency in local government unites proposing tax levy increases exceeding 5 percent. The bill amends the Truth in Taxation law in the Property Tax Code by requiring notices to be placed prominently on taxing districts’ websites for at least 30 days, in addition to existing requirements for publishing notices in local newspapers. Senate Bill 3571 requires automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to be present

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BELLEVILLE — The St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office announced on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024, that it has filed charges against a Belleville man in connection with a death investigation that began on August 11. On Monday, Aug. 12, 2024, the Belleville Police Department presented information regarding the case to the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office. After a thorough review, the State’s Attorney’s Office announced today that Matthew K. Thomas, 23, of Belleville, has been charged with two counts of Murder/Intent to Kill, a Class M Felony. Thomas is currently in custody at the Belleville Police Department and is expected to be transferred to the St. Clair County Jail as he awaits further court proceedings. According to the Belleville Police Department, no additional suspects are being sought in connection with this case. Authorities remind the public that all suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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ALTON - Alton Mayor David Goins and staff have invited media to a press conference for 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024, at Alton City Hall, on the mine subsidence at Gordon Moore Park and what the mayor describes as "reopening plans." City of Alton City Council Coordinator Bianca R. Jackson said: "The press conference will feature updates and discussions from Alton Mayor David Goins. "Given the significant level of public interest, we are committed to providing meaningful updates and information to the public," she said. "Mayor Goins, along with other city officials, will provide updates on the subsidence incident and outline the steps being taken to safely reopen Gordon Moore Park to the public. This will include information on the assessment of the site, mitigation efforts, and the timeline for reopening." Mayor Goins was limited on what information he could release on Tuesday morning, but said they are excited to make an announcement to some updates in regard to the mining efforts

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EDWARDSVILLE — Chappy's Fried Chicken & Burgers, a long-standing establishment in the Edwardsville community, has permanently closed its doors at 1031 Century Drive. The closure marks the end of the restaurant that became known for its burgers, fried chicken, fries, appetizers, and shakes offered at reasonable prices. The restaurant, situated next to Wang Gang Asian Eats in the Edwardsville shopping center, issued a statement on Monday, Aug. 12, 2024, mirroring that of its neighboring business, which also has closed. The statement for Chappy's by ownership was as follows: "Greetings Guest: Due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, Chappy's is now closed," the statement read. "Thank you for the years of support and patronage that has allowed us to be a bigger part of the community." There was not any other information released about the future of either establishment - Chappy's or Wang Gang - except they have both been permanently closed.

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GLEN CARBON – The Glen Carbon Heritage Museum has partnered with the Glen Carbon Centennial Library to offer a speaker presentation by Charlene Blair, titled "Philately: Charlene Blair's Journey," on Sat., Aug. 17 at 2 pm. This free event is open to the public and will be held at the Heritage Museum, located at 124 School Street, Glen Carbon. The Glen Carbon Heritage Museum is also presenting the "Cover to Cover" exhibition curated by Charlene Blair that is currently on display at the museum. Blair started collecting stamps in the early 1990s, specifically ones featuring African Americans. The Black Heritage collection is the most popular series amongst post offices, honoring African Americans that have a wide-variety of backgrounds and community influences. As a collector and exhibitor, Blair has hundreds of stamps in her collection. During her speaker presentation, Blair will share extensive knowledge of her collection, its historical relevance and give an overview of

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BRIGHTON - A man from Medora has been charged in Jersey County with residential burglary and theft after stealing a four-wheeler and more from a Brighton residence. Kyle E. Wallace, 38, of Medora, was charged with one count each of residential burglary and theft over $500. On June 17, 2024, Wallace allegedly entered a residence in Brighton without authority, intending to commit a theft. He was additionally charged with stealing a red 1990 Honda four-wheeler and various coins; the stolen items had a combined value over $500. A petition to deny his pretrial release notes Wallace’s “extensive criminal history,” including prior charges of driving under the influence and domestic battery, as well as firearm and drug offenses. Wallace was also previously convicted of residential burglary and, while committing this latest offense, was on pretrial release from a case of unlawful weapon possession by a felon. Wallace faces a Class 1 felony for the burglary charge

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SPRINGFIELD - Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs returned a record $301 million to 321,558 Illinois residents through the state’s missing money program during Fiscal Year 2024. “Putting money back in people’s pockets helps families and our state’s economy,” Frerichs said. “This money belongs with its rightful owners, and we have added tools to return more of it.” Illinois’ missing money program — also known as I-CASH — is one of the state’s oldest consumer protection initiatives. The Illinois State Treasurer is tasked with safeguarding and returning unclaimed property, including the contents of overlooked safe deposit boxes, unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts and unused rebate cards. The Illinois State Treasurer is legally required to return unclaimed property to its owner or heirs, no matter how long it takes. Frerichs has given back more than $2 billion during his time in office. When

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SPRINGFIELD - Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs is celebrating the first-ever National ABLE Savings Day. The Treasurer’s Office’s Illinois ABLE program helps people with disabilities achieve greater financial independence through investment accounts. ABLE is short for Achieving a Better Life Experience, and a decade ago Congress passed a law allowing states to create programs to help individuals with disabilities save and invest their money to pay expenses that help to improve their health, independence, or quality of life, without risking their public benefits. “ABLE is a game changer. For decades, people with disabilities were told not to save to avoid losing their public benefits,” Treasurer Frerichs said . “Now, with an ABLE account, they can put away money and invest that savings, securing greater financial independence and setting aside funds that can be used to help support a greater quality of life.” Illinoisans with disabilities

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BELLEVILLE — Dr. Marshaun Warren has been named a 2024 Champion for Diversity and Inclusion Award winner, Belleville Township High School District 201 announced on July 22. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting diversity and inclusion in their communities and workplaces. Dr. Warren's efforts have been acknowledged as instrumental in fostering a more inclusive environment. "The program highlights those who are truly championing the cause of creating a more inclusive place to live and work," the district stated. Dr. Warren's recognition is a testament to their dedication to these values, reflecting the ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion within the Belleville Township High School District 201 community.

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Welcome to another journey through time as we explore the significant events that occurred on August 13th throughout history. The Beginning of the Berlin Wall - 1961 On this day in 1961, construction of the Berlin Wall began, splitting the city into East and West Berlin. This physical and ideological barrier symbolized the Cold War's division between the communist Eastern Bloc and the capitalist West. For nearly three decades, the wall stood as a stark reminder of political and social divides until it was finally dismantled in 1989. Space Exploration Milestone - 1960 August 13, 1960, marked a significant leap in space exploration as the Soviet Union's spacecraft, Korabl-Sputnik 2, returned to Earth successfully. It carried the first living organisms to orbit the Earth and return safely, including two dogs, Belka and Strelka, along with numerous plants and insects. This mission paved the way for human spaceflight and was a critical step in the space race between the USSR

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CASEYVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that lane restrictions will be encountered on southbound I-255, at the I-64 interchange, beginning Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 7 a.m. weather permitting. The two right lanes will be closed to allow IDOT District 8 Operations forces to complete bridge deck patching and expansion joint repairs. All lanes are expected to reopen by Friday, August 23, 2024, at 3 p.m. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to flaggers and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits and be on the alert for workers and equipment. Public transportation and traveling during non- peak hours are recommended if possible. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on gettingAroundIllinois.com.

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GODFREY - The Aug. 13, 2024 rehearsals will mark the beginning of the twenty-fourth season of the Great Rivers Choral Society, Godfrey, IL. Under the direction of Raynard Brown, the mixed-voice choir will begin rehearsals at Godfrey First United Methodist Church, 1100 Airport Road, Godfrey, IL 62035. Those interested in joining the choir may audition with Director Brown in order to determine placement as soprano, alto, tenor, or bass. Sheet music will be provided to all members of the choir. There is a $70 annual tuition for joining the choir. The choir’s first performance, I Sing Because…, will take place on Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, at 7 p.m., at the Upper Alton Baptist Church, 2726 College Avenue, Alton; Saturday, Oct. 19, at 3 p.m., at The Bridge Church, 504 E. 12th Street, Alton; and Sunday, Oct. 20, at 3 p.m., at Godfrey First United Methodist Church, 1100 Airport Road, Godfrey. The choir’s second performance, Sing We Now of Christmas, will take place on Friday,

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GODFREY - From Monday to Sunday, there’s always something special happening at Tony’s Ranch House in Godfrey, with daily specials and reasonable prices - an increasingly rarer find in the local restaurant scene. For their dedication to serving the community that has long supported them and much more, the Ranch House is basking in the spotlight of the North Alton-Godfrey Business Council (NAGBC). Mary Mathews with Tony’s Ranch House appeared on Our Daily Show! on Riverbender.com to discuss the restaurant and the many benefits of joining the NAGBC. Mathews said she’s been a member of the council for four or five years, and described it as a “great community” dedicated to supporting local businesses. “It just a great community, a great group of people to work with - everybody trying to support everybody in a small town,” Mathews said. “Everybody’s just so friendly and happy to be there.” She also emphasized

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BELLEVILLE - Caritas Family Solutions is proud to announce it has raised more than $126,000 during its 24-hour fundraising matching campaign in honor of the organization’s 77th anniversary. The matching campaign took place on Caritas Day on July 31, a day that recognizes the founding of the nonprofit human services agency. The day is also dedicated to raising awareness about the lives Caritas’ touches through its programs and services. The nonprofit’s sponsors, Contegra Cares, BAM Marketing Agency, TWM Engineering & Geospatial Services, Jen and Steve Melichar, Praise Community Fellowship, Edward Jones, Vitale-Leffler Family, First Mid Bank & Trust, Let’s Build Hope, Gary & Christine Huelsmann, Ann Effinger-Meuleman and Friends of Caritas matched $3 to every $1 donated. The 24-hour campaign started at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31 and went through Thursday, August 1 at 2 p.m. “We are so proud of the support from our generous donors and sponsors and for

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ALTON - After some discussion and a few changes, the Alton Committee of the Whole on Monday approved an updated and expanded version of the decorative holiday lighting schedule for the Clark Bridge. The new bridge lighting schedule, which now faces City Council approval, is as follows: Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday (Jan. 15): Red/white/blue President’s Day (third Monday of February): Red/white/blue Memorial Day Weekend (following last Monday of May): Red/white/blue Flag Day (June 14): Red/white/blue Juneteenth (June 19): Yellow/green/red July 4: Red/white/blue Labor Day (first Monday of September): Red/white/blue Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day (second Monday in October): Red/white/blue Veteran's Day (Nov. 11): Red/white/blue Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November): Orange/yellow/green Christmas Day (Dec. 25): Red/green Alton High School Graduation: Red Alton High School Homecoming: Red Marquette High School

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ALTON - The Upper Alton Association will host its Rockin with Robert Concert from 7 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024, at the Robert Wadlow statue, 2810 College Ave., Alton. The concert will feature the band Porch Cafe, which was originally scheduled to perform in June but was postponed due to inclement weather. “We tried something different this year and held concerts every Tuesday in June. We have had such a great turnout we decided to do an extra concert,” said Debbie Frakes, President of the Upper Alton Association. The final concert of the season is scheduled for Aug. 27, 2024, and will feature the Jared Hennings Band. The concert will also run from 7 to 8 p.m. The Upper Alton Association expressed gratitude for the community's support and hopes to see strong attendance at the upcoming events.

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WOOD RIVER — Jayden Ulrich received a hero's welcome on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, at the Wood River Recreation Center. The event saw a large turnout of former teammates, friends, and families, all eager to celebrate the hometown Olympian's achievements. Ulrich, who recently turned 21, was visibly elated by the warm reception and expressed her gratitude to the crowd. "When you get a day named after you, that is special," said East Alton-Wood River High School Coach Russ Colona. "She is a well-loved kid and is always smiling and happy. She is a wonderful kid. The best is yet to come." Ulrich qualified for the U.S. team in the women's discus in second place and had a best throw of 61.08 meters in the prelims at the Olympics. She was 12th in Group B at the Olympics. Wood River City Councilman Jeremy Plank noted the impressive turnout. "We were just ecstatic to have it here in Wood River," he said. Rep. Amy Elik also shared her pride in Ulrich's accomplishments. "We are so proud

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ST. LOUIS - St. Louis Language Immersion School (SLLIS), which was recently named the 2024 Best Public Charter Elementary School in Missouri, is celebrating 15 years of providing a very high quality, unique and global educational experience to kids in St. Louis. SLLIS was founded in 2009 as the first and only language immersion school in the St. Louis area providing students with a free bilingual, dual-language education in their choice of one of three language programs - French, Spanish or Chinese. As a charter school, students pre-K through eighth grade living within the City of St. Louis can enroll to attend the school. Vince Schoemehl, a SLLIS Founding Board Member who served as the Mayor of St. Louis from 1981-1993, said he became interested in the idea of starting a language immersion school after his own struggles with trying to learn French in college. “I understood the benefits of learning another language from a business and life perspective but trying to

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