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CHICAGO- Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Children’s Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative (CBHTI) announced the public launch of the BEACON (Behavioral Health Care and Ongoing Navigation) care portal, a centralized resource for Illinois youth and families seeking youth mental health services and care, including state agency support and community-based programs. BEACON is now live for use by Illinois residents and can be accessed at beacon.illinois.gov . “We have made behavioral health a priority of my administration – not just investing in affordability and accessibility but breaking down the stigmas associated with it,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With the launch of BEACON, families have an easy and accessible place to start. I’m thankful for the team at the Children’s Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative and the staff across six different state agencies whose collaboration proves that breaking down silos in state

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On January 15, history has witnessed a remarkable array of events that have shaped our world in various ways. A notable event on this day occurred in 1971 when the first episode of the popular television series “All in the Family” aired in the United States. This groundbreaking sitcom, created by Norman Lear, tackled controversial social issues such as racism, gender roles, and the generational divide through the lens of humor. The show’s main character, Archie Bunker, became a cultural icon, representing the struggles and complexities of American life during the turbulent 1970s. “All in the Family” not only entertained audiences but also sparked important conversations about societal norms and values, paving the way for more progressive content in television. Fast forward to 2001, when the United States experienced a significant political shift with the inauguration of President George W. Bush. This event marked the beginning of a controversial presidency

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Key takeaways: Most energy drinks are not FDA approved Too much caffeine can lead to negative side effects Many energy drinks have 200mg of caffeine content per can Consider your urination when thinking about hydration Break down hydration based on the activities you do The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) makes clear that energy drinks are “fundamentally different” than sports drinks like Gatorade or Powerade. But scrolling through social media or strolling through the grocery store aisle, and the lines start to blur a bit. When quarterback Justin Fields was a rookie, he inked an endorsement deal with C4 – an energy drink brand. More recently, CELSIUS signed six Heisman Trophy “hopefuls” to NIL (name, image and likeness) deals. The company’s slogan is “live fit,” a motto many athletes can relate to. Karan Rai, MD, is a sports medicine physician with OSF HealthCare who works in partnership with Illinois State

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EDWARDSVILLE - Expanding on its previous and current dramatic offerings and education, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will present the inaugural SIUE Performing Arts Initiative on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025 according to Marc Schapman, DMA, professor of voice and chair of the Department of Music. The new series of performances and workshops will begin on Jan. 22 in the Dunham Hall Theater and will feature Chamber Project Saint Louis (CPSTL), with the University’s own Professor of Cello Marta Simidtchieva . Ticket prices are available here . “The mission of the SIUE Performing Arts Initiative is to provide low-cost, high-quality, cultural and educational programs directed at a wide cross-section of the community,” said Schapman. “We want to bring performances to the area that residents would otherwise have little opportunity to attend and provide a variety of points of view and diverse artistic experiences. We feel this is an asset to SIUE

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EDWARDSVILLE - The SIU System is pleased to announce that both SIU Carbondale (SIUC) and SIU Edwardsville (SIUE) are engaging in a new partnership with the Gateway Equity Institute (GEI), a St. Louis based organization dedicated to advancing equity and justice. GEI empowers leaders to drive change, provides transformative training and engages youth through impactful diversity programs. SIU and GEI are partnering to provide the Anytown Campus Program to 100 students from SIU Carbondale and SIU Edwardsville, plus students from Carbondale Community High School and East St. Louis Senior High School. “Through the inclusion of both college students and high school students, GEI and SIU are creating unique opportunities for youth to learn from one another's perspectives as they explore the following topics: establishing a foundation, sex, race, ability, LGBTQIA2S+ identities and preparing for next steps,” said Rhonda Carter Adams, executive director of GEI. Each school has successfully

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EDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton has announced the recommendation of Alex Fox for the permanent role of principal at Edwardsville High School. The recommendation will be presented to the Board of Education at its monthly meeting on Monday, Jan. 27. If approved, Fox’s appointment will begin with the 2025-26 school year and include a two-year contract, with an option for a third year. Fox has served as interim principal at EHS since August 9 after Dr. Steve Stuart stepped down as principal to assume the position of executive director of the EGHM Foundation. “Edwardsville High School has really thrived this year under Mr. Fox’s leadership as interim principal,” said Shelton. “He has the trust and support of the students, staff, and community, and I am excited to see how EHS will continue to prosper under his direction in the years to come.” Fox served as associate principal

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ALTON — A mudslide occurred around 4 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, at Riverview Park in Alton, prompting city officials to assess the damage and consider future stabilization efforts. The incident did not damage the nearby Abbott facility in Alton but resulted in a collection of significant debris and the loss of old trees near the business. Mike Parsons, the public works director for Alton, reported that the mudslide has closed off certain areas of the park while crews work to clean up the debris. "We are looking at all options now as these incidents seem to be happening more frequently," he said. City personnel plan to clear the collection of trees and debris as early as Wednesday. Lyndsey Younger, the interim Alton Park and Rec Director, said: "The mudslide affected the sidewalk that connects the parking lot to the Riverview wall, creating a no-trespassing zone to ensure public safety. However, the road near Riverview Park remains open, as it is situated further down from

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ALTON - OSF Healthcare St. Anthony’s Health Center has a new president. Zach Yoder, MHA, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, is in his second week as St. Anthony’s president, but he’s a longtime Riverbend resident eager to serve the Alton area. Yoder said he’s looking forward to taking care of the community alongside OSF’s mission partners. “For us it’s just about living the mission and doing what we’re here to do every day,” he said. “We’re looking to continue to be here to take care of the community. Hospitals are an economic pillar in the community. We not only have a lot of folks that work in our organization that live here, but we also take care of everyone in the community as well. For us, that’s not something that we take lightly. A graduate of Jerseyville High School, Yoder started his medical career as a pre-med student, until his junior year of college when he “had a little bit of a crisis” and switche

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee who served 23 years in the Reserve Forces—slammed U.S. Secretary of Defense expected nominee Pete Hegseth on his utter lack of experience and qualifications to lead the Department of Defense at his confirmation hearing. Pointing to a framed copy of the Soldier’s Creed—a copy that hangs over her desk in the Senate and hung above her bed during her recovery at Walter Reed Medical Center after the helicopter she co-piloted was shot down—Duckworth urged Mr. Hegseth to follow this Creed as our servicemembers do every day, placing the mission above personal ambition. Duckworth’s full remarks can be found on the Senator’s YouTube . “Every day, our servicemembers follow the Soldier’s Creed as we ask them to leave their families, walk into enemy fire and be ready for the mission until their very

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ALTON – Illinois State Representative Amy Elik (R-Alton) was reappointed to serve as the Assistant House Republican Leader by House Republican Leader Tony McCombie (R-Savanna). “It’s such an honor to serve again as Assistant House Republican Leader with Leader Tony McCombie,” said Rep. Amy Elik. “I do not take this responsibility lightly and am excited to use this position to present real solutions to the tough problems Illinois is facing. This is a great opportunity to drive policy that will not only benefit the people I represent in the Metro East, but all across Illinois. I am humbled Leader McCombie has chosen me to serve alongside her in the 104th General Assembly.” State Representative Amy Elik joins an accomplished group of lawmakers from across the state who will guide the House Republican caucus through the 104th General Assembly. “Amy is a tremendous asset to our caucus, and I am thrilled to have her on my leadership team,”

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ALTON/GODFREY — Community Christmas in 2024 successfully provided hundreds of toys and clothing to families in need, thanks to local efforts and generous donations. The Freer family from Freer Auto Body played a pivotal role in the campaign, which aims to support those who may otherwise go without during the holiday season. On Christmas Eve, the Freer family learned of a family of 10 that lacked clothing and toys. They worked quickly to gather the appropriate sizes for the children and find toys for the kids, embodying the precise spirit of Community Christmas. Margaret Freer, a family member and part owner of Freer Auto Body, expressed the emotional significance of the campaign, stating, “It just warms my heart each year to do the Community Christmas campaign. It was David's favorite charity, so that makes it even more special for me. The need is out there and our community never fails to come through.” David Freer, the founder of Freer Auto Body in Godfrey, died

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CHATHAM – The Board of Directors of United Community Bank (UCB) is pleased to announce that Allen Schmale has been named President and Chief Executive Officer of UCB, effective immediately. This announcement follows a highly successful tenure as Interim President and CEO, during which Schmale demonstrated exceptional leadership and a steadfast commitment to the Bank's mission. "Allen is the ideal leader for this role," said Bob Narmont, Chairman of the UCB Board. "His deep banking expertise, dedication to serving our customers and communities, and ability to engage and motivate our team have been invaluable as we continue to grow and strengthen our organization." With decades of experience in banking and finance, Schmale previously served as Chief Lending Officer at UCB, where he spearheaded initiatives that drove growth and success across our organization. His leadership will be instrumental as UCB continues to serve and support its central Illinois, northeast Missouri, and

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EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, that multiple charges have been filed against Delvarrion D. Harris, 30, of East St. Louis, in connection with a shooting that injured 12 people at a club in Venice. The incident occurred early on Nov. 24, 2024, at a club located in the 1400 block of Broadway in Venice. Haine said all the victims survived, although some required hospitalization for their injuries. Harris is charged with 12 counts of Aggravated Battery with a Firearm, a class X felony, as well as one count of Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, a class 3 felony. The charges allege that Harris discharged a firearm, striking the victims, and that he possessed a .40-caliber handgun despite a prior felony conviction. The charges were officially filed on Dec. 20, 2024, but remained sealed until Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, following Harris's arrest. He is currently held at the St. Clair County Jail and is expected to be transferred

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GLEN CARBON - Two contracts between Glen Carbon and TWM, Inc. for street improvement projects are up for a vote at Tuesday night, Jan. 14, 2025, Glen Carbon Village Board meeting. Trustees will consider the approval of two contracts with TWM, Inc. for construction engineering services under the Street Program. Work under the first agreement totals $94,300, while the second agreement totals $44,700. According to a memo to trustees from Public Works Director Scott Slemer, the $94,300 agreement is for the Main Street Storm Sewer Replacement project, while the $44,700 agreement is for the Forest Ridge Court Reconstruction project. Main Street Storm Sewer Replacement Project limits for the Main Street Storm Sewer Replacement extend from the historic Glen Carbon covered bridge to School Street. The full scope of the work is described in the first Professional Services Agreement as follows: “All inlets and storm sewer will be replaced, and the street will be patched as necessary,&rdquo

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JERSEYVILLE - Jersey Community Middle School has released their Honor Roll and High Honor Roll lists for grades 5 through 7. 7th Grade - High Honor Roll Trey N. Alich Wade R. Ball Aislynn C. Christen Emersyn J. Cole Lillie M. Cornelius Kaylee M. Cunningham Kyle A. Darr Kadence Dobson Henry D. Dohrn Ayden S. Droege Stella M. Egelhoff Addison J. Fessler Charles R. Friedel Davis J. Frost Olivia D. Funk Cadence M. Goodey Liam P. Graham Reid K. Graham Bentley W. Grasle Maci E. Gray Fallin M. Green Emmitt M. Grizzle Ruiz Aubrey A. Hargrave Joshua G. Hartley Sophia M. Herter Harper L. Hill Brody A. Hoyt Austin Huang Sullivan E. Hutchens Harmony M. Jantzen Blake J. Jones Paige M. Jones Cullan J. Kinser Kiyah B. Knoche Grace E. Latempt Bennett L. Leslie Parker M. Logan Grayson M. Mangara Kagen A. McClintock Livia B. McKinnon Christopher J. Merrell Colton T. Mueller Cjay T. Nevlin Kaylin M. Norman Haylee

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JERSEYVILLE - Jersey Community High School has released their lists for 8th Grade Quarter 2 Honor Roll and 9-12th grade Honor Roll for 1st Semester. 12th Grade Semester 1 High Honor Roll Baro, Jayce C. Bellet, Jacob R. Benedict, Katreona G. Benz, Abbigail M. Bockstruck, Charlie L. Bolds, Jordan M. Brainerd, Rose L. Brunaugh, Jaxon J. Burney, Ava L. Carter, Halie M. Deist, Bradley M. Dennison, Mackenzie E. Derrick, Corah M. Dougherty, Meredith J. Eads, Jaren A. Eilerman, Michaela G. Finkes, Peyton R. Finkes, Talan W. Goetten, Dax J. Graham, Kenli K. Gray, Morgan L. Groves, Brayden T. Hansen, Angela C. Hardwick, Aiden W. Hedger, Madalyn M. Heineman, Hailey M. Herrera, Timothy S. Hileman, Jovee E. Hodges, Madison N. Hudson, Kate M. Huitt, Logan M. Hutchens, Reese M. Johnson, Camryn A. Johnson, Tyler J. Kadell, Jordan T. Kallal, Casey M. Kelly, Addison G. Kendall, Aiden W. Kiel, Joseph C. Koenig, Hunter

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O'FALLON, Ill. — The O'Fallon Community Consolidated School District #90 has mourned the loss of Edrick Ross, a beloved custodian at Moye Elementary School. Ross died recently, prompting an outpouring of tributes from staff and the school community. Ross was known not only for his role in maintaining the school but also for the deep connections he formed with students. He was described as someone who "loved and accepted all students unconditionally," embodying a spirit of kindness and support that resonated throughout the school. Staff members remembered Ross for his infectious smile and his willingness to engage with students, whether through laughter or dance. "He is truly missed," one staff member stated, reflecting the sentiment felt by many in the district. As the community comes to terms with this loss, the district encourages all to keep Ross's memory alive in their hearts.

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FULTON, Mo. - Westminster College is pleased to announce those students named to the Fall 2024 Dean's List for exemplary academic performance. The list of 235 students includes 70 freshmen, 51 sophomores, 43 juniors and 71 seniors. These are two local students named to the Dean's List: HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME, CLASS YEAR East Alton, Illinois Kaleb Hinkle-Pruett, Senior Saint Louis, Missouri Eliva Flowers, Freshman The Dean's List recognizes Westminster students who excelled academically during the past semester. To be included on the Dean's List, a student must achieve a 3.60 semester grade point average with at least 12 hours completed that semester. Dr. Ingrid Ilinca, Vice President, Chief Academic Officer, Provost and Chief Student Retention Officer, recently commended the students for their exemplary academic performance. "The students on the fall Dean's List are to be commended for working extremely hard last semester," Ilinca said. "On behalf of the entire Westminster

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BELLEVILLE – The Wall Of Fame Selection Committee at Belleville West High School is now accepting nominations for its 2025 inductees, with submissions open until Feb. 28, 2025. Principal Dr. Malcom J. Hill emphasized the importance of recognizing the achievements of alumni, faculty, employees, and community members who have made significant contributions through community service, academic and athletic accomplishments, and professional success. “The Wall of Fame recognizes those individuals whose actions and contributions to society have brought distinction and honor to the Belleville West High School community,” he stated. Nominations for the Wall of Fame opened on Dec. 23, 2024. The Selection Committee, which comprises nine members — five from the school and four from the community —invites the public to submit information about individuals who have excelled in their fields or made notable contributions to the local community. Dr. Hill noted that

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GODFREY – Lewis and Clark Community College is meeting the changes and challenges in the growing real estate field by offering classes to help individuals enter that career field as brokers. An individual must pass a total of 75 hours of instruction to take the Real Estate Broker’s licensure exam. Lewis and Clark is offering three different classes of Real Estate, all of which are needed for the exam: Real Estate Brokerage (REAL 135-A60) – 7-9:40 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 22 – March 12, Godfrey Campus Real Estate Transactions (REAL 136-01) – 9:30 – 10:45 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 21 – May 15, Godfrey Campus (REAL 136-B60) – 7-9:40 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, March 24- May 14, Godfrey Campus Real Estate Transaction Applications (REAL 137-B60) – 6:30 – 10 p.m., Tuesdays, March 25- May 13, Godfrey Campus All three courses will be taught by local real estate professional Kevin Botterbush

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