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EDWARDSVILLE — Sophomore setter Annika Jenkins is optimistic about the Metro East Lutheran High's girls' volleyball program future. Jenkins, who is one of five new players in the Knights' starting lineup this past season, believes that the influx of talent from the freshman class and other returnees will contribute to a successful campaign in 2025. "We have a lot of new talent coming in in the freshman class, and throughout all the grades," Jenkins said. "We will just need to learn how to work together well, and I think we'll have a really strong team. It is a very big part of volleyball." Recognized as a BJ's Printables Female Athlete of the Month for the Knights, Jenkins views her role as not just a setter but also as a leader on the court. She emphasizes the importance of supporting her teammates and making precise plays to set up the hitters for success. "I'm the setter, so I think I have the role of leadership to control the court, and what's going on, and when to get

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EDWARDSVILLE — EXO Lounge, a multifaceted establishment in Edwardsville, is set to host NYE: The Pre-Party from noon to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024. Owner Gina Gamblin and her staff aim to provide a unique social experience that allows guests to celebrate the upcoming year early. Located at 2 157 Center, EXO Lounge combines a nail bar, med spa, and lounge, offering a diverse range of services, including manicures, pedicures, and facials. The venue also features an array of food and drink options prepared by Michelin-star chef Gianni Colucci, who relocated from Switzerland to lead the kitchen. “We just want to promote a social time with your family and friends and provide that special unique experience that you can’t have at any other spot,” Gamblin said. She described the atmosphere at EXO as a "one-of-a-kind experience in the region," likening it to a "mini-vacation" for visitors. The NYE: The Pre-Party event will include drink specials, a DJ, and

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ALTON — Students and faculty at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Alton celebrated the culmination of their semester-long commitment to community service on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024, with a Faith Family Party and Day of Giving. St. Mary's Catholic Principal Mary Rivera announced that the day began with a presentation of a $500 check to Officer Averbeck and the Alton Police Department's K-9 Unit in honor of fallen K-9 Officer Odin. Rivera emphasized the importance of teaching students about their responsibilities in living their faith through acts of kindness and service to others. The event also included the delivery of care packages to homebound parishioners, an experience Rivera described as "priceless and life-changing" for both students and staff. "The smiles on their faces were truly one of the most humbling experiences I have been part of," Rivera said. The initiative, which involved mixing grade levels K-8 and led by middle schoolers, began at the start of the school

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CHICAGO – Illinois Lottery players have another shot at a mind-boggling, life-changing windfall tomorrow night. The Mega Millions jackpot is now a staggering $1.15 billion for the next drawing on Friday night. If won, it would be the fifth-largest Mega Millions jackpot and the ninth-largest lottery jackpot won in U.S. history. The Mega Millions roll began on September 13, 2024, and in that time nearly 960,000 winning Mega Millions tickets have been sold, and over $6.5 million in prizes have been won by Illinois Lottery players. For those looking for ways to increase their chances of winning the $1.15 billion Mega Millions jackpot for Friday night’s drawing, the Illinois Lottery reveals its top 10 ‘winningest’ Mega Millions retailers in the State. These stores have sold the most winning Mega Millions tickets in 2024.

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ALTON - The Alton Police Department welcomed its newest member, Officer Luke Atkinson, during a recent swearing-in ceremony. Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford administered the Oath of Office, marking Atkinson's official entry into the force. Atkinson, who is set to attend the Police Academy in early January 2025, has begun his training under the guidance of Training Sergeant Manny Espinoza. The department expressed confidence in Atkinson’s ability to represent the Alton Police Department with professionalism and pride as he prepares for his upcoming training. The hiring of Officer Atkinson comes as part of the department's ongoing efforts to strengthen its team and enhance community safety. The department encourages the community to welcome Atkinson and support him as he embarks on this new chapter in his law enforcement career.

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WEST ALTON, MO. - Two individuals sustained serious injuries in a rollover crash late Monday night in West Alton, Missouri. The incident occurred at approximately 11:40 p.m. on December 23, 2024, in the southbound lanes of Highway 67, about a half-mile north of Highway 94. One of those injured in the crash was a 16-year-old female from Godfrey. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the driver of a 1997 Lincoln MK8 lost control of the vehicle, which exited the roadway to the left, collided with the tree line, and subsequently overturned. Both occupants of the vehicle were ejected during the crash and were airlifted to a local hospital for treatment. The names of the victims have not been disclosed by Missouri State Highway Patrol.

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ALTON — Duke Bakery in the Middletown Historic District again commemorated the holiday season with a special event on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2024, featuring Santa Claus and his reindeer. The festivities were scheduled for Christmas Eve from 10 a.m. to noon, and the bakery encouraged families to capture the moment with photographs. Amy Hollis, one of the bakery's owners, described the event as a beloved tradition that has grown in popularity over the years. "It has become a tradition here and grown every year," she said. "We had kids showing up, Christmas mamas, a lot of dogs — it really has become a sight to see." Hollis emphasized the bakery's commitment to the community, stating, "This is something we feel we can give back to the community that supports us all year. It shows our appreciation." The bakery was fully stocked for last-minute holiday needs, offering a variety of baked goods including rolls, pies, cakes, decorated cookies, and breakfast items for Christmas

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GODFREY - On Christmas Day, emergency responders from the Godfrey Fire District celebrated a remarkable moment as they assisted in the delivery of a baby, marking a highlight in their challenging work. The incident occurred while Assistant Chief Shawn Bloemker and the team were on duty, bringing joy to a day typically filled with family gatherings and holiday cheer. At approximately 11:22 a.m., on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2024, Bloemker, along with Firefighter/EMT-B Aaron Blackford, Captain/EMT-B Chris Stratton, and Firefighter/EMT-B Payne Hubbs, responded to a call regarding a patient in labor. Initially, the team believed the patient would need to be transported to the hospital without delivering the baby, as there was no crowning observed. However, as they arrived and prepared to move her, contractions intensified, and the baby was delivered on-site. "It was an amazing day for us, a real highlight for everybody on shift," Bloemker said. "Christmas meant a little bit more this year."

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EAST ST. LOUIS – Illinois State Police (ISP) Statewide Anti-Violence Enforcement South group conducted a violent crime suppression detail December16-19, 2024 in St. Clair and Madison counties, focusing its efforts on East St. Louis and neighboring Metro East communities. The operation utilized intelligence and technology to target known high crime areas, violent offenders, and structured criminal groups in the communities of the Metro East. Detail Results Arrests 24 Felony Charges 36 Criminal Charges 48 Firearm Related Charges 18 Firearms Seized 9 Controlled Substance Seized 28.3 grams Stolen Vehicles Recovered 1 There were several notable events and arrests during the detail. On December 16, 2024, troopers initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for an Illinois Vehicle Code violation (IVC). The vehicle fled the traffic. A short while later, troopers located the vehicle parked and the driver

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY - On Wednesday, December 25, 2024, the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office issued charges on suspect Mahkya Anderson, 25 years of age, of the 4600 block of Whisper Lane, St. Louis, Missouri 63136, for Assault First Degree, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and Burglary First Degree. Anderson is being held without bond. Please note, charges are merely an accusation, and Defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law. The probable cause statement reads: On Tuesday, December 24, 2024, the Defendant and her boyfriend, co-defendant, and a third individual broke into victim's apartment. The third individual, not yet identified, was armed with a firearm. After the three made entry by breaking in the front door, the defendant and boyfriend attacked the victims inside the apartment. While Defendant was fighting with victim, Co­ defendant grabbed the hair of two other victims, causing them pain, to restrain them

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SPRINGFIELD – Youth between the ages of 10-17 can apply now for the youth wingshooting clinic and pheasant hunt opportunities scheduled at two Illinois state parks, including Pere Marquette State Park in Jersey County on March 1 and the World Shooting and Recreational Complex (WSRC) in Randolph County on March 15. Young hunters will participate in a wingshooting clinic in the morning taught by National Sporting Clays Association and Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) certified instructors. Participants will practice safe shotgun handling and operation while advancing their wingshooting skills. A pheasant hunt will take place in the afternoon. Participants must have successfully completed an approved hunter safety course and have a valid hunting license. Permits for these wingshooting clinics and youth pheasant hunts are available through the IDNR’s Controlled Pheasant Hunting online reservation system. Select “Click here for applications”

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Welcome to another fascinating edition of "This Day in History!" Today, we take a stroll through time and explore significant events that have shaped our world on December 26. 1. The Birth of the Modern Boxing Day (1860) One of the most recognized traditions associated with December 26 is Boxing Day, celebrated primarily in the UK and other Commonwealth nations. This day has its roots in the 19th century when it became a day for the upper classes to give gifts to their servants and tradespeople. On this day in 1860, the tradition was officially recognized, and it quickly evolved into a day of sports, shopping, and family gatherings. Today, Boxing Day is synonymous with major sporting events, particularly football matches, and massive retail sales. It serves as a reminder of the importance of generosity and community during the holiday season. 2. The First Kwanzaa Celebration (1966) On December 26, 1966, the first Kwanzaa celebration took place in Los Angeles, California,

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COTTAGE HILLS — Kimberly Mills, a long-time truck driver, is seeking community support through a GoFundMe campaign to raise $2,500 for essential repairs to her car, which has been out of service for eight months. The vehicle, currently located in Gainesville, Mo., is critical for Mills to regain her independence and secure employment. She said she needs her vehicle to get back and forth to work. Mills, who has been housebound without a vehicle, expressed her urgent need for help in a heartfelt message on her fundraising page. “Help me get back to work so I can pay my bills by getting my car repaired,” she wrote. “I can’t get a job, been trying. I am not receiving any financial aid. Please help me to get my car repaired so I can work again.” The repairs needed for her vehicle include a fuel tank flush, a new battery, and potential wiring repairs due to damage from mice. Mills estimated that the cost of the repairs could be around $600 for the flush

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ILLINOIS - Ameren Illinois has a few tips to keep you safe this winter. With colder weather approaching and gas furnaces turning on, Ameren spokesperson Brian Bretsch and technician Jake Dukett stopped by “Our Daily Show!” with CJ Nasello to talk about natural gas safety and other important reminders. Bretsch and Dukett encourage people to have their furnaces checked every year and change out their filters once a month. “We want to educate everybody on making sure we have those things checked out every year,” Dukett said. “We just want to ask to have all of our natural gas piping and appliances inspected, and they’ll go through operational checks on those and make sure that they’re operating properly.” Dukett encourages people to call their HVAC technician to inspect their furnace and pipes as soon as the weather starts turning colder. He said that furnaces are designed to “run on and off all the time,” as a

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O’FALLON, Ill. — Two people died early Christmas morning, Dec. 25, 2024, following a head-on collision on Interstate 64 near O'Fallon, IL., prompting the closure of the eastbound lanes at mile marker 19. The crash occurred at approximately 3:23 a.m. on Wednesday, according to Illinois State Police. Illinois State Police reported that a Lexus driven by Quincy Jones, 41, of St. Louis, was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes when it collided with a Ford driven by Christopher M. Sahs, 34, of New Baden. Sahs was pronounced dead at the scene, while Jones was transported to HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, where he was pronounced dead at 4:45 a.m., according to St. Clair County Coroner Calvin Dye Sr. Emergency responders were required to extricate at least two victims from the wreckage. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and authorities indicated that dense fog may have been a contributing factor. The eastbound lanes of Interstate 64 were

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As the holiday season approaches, the air becomes crisp and the days shorter, creating the perfect backdrop for cozy movie nights. Whether you’re looking for heartwarming tales, festive comedies, or classic winter dramas, there’s a wealth of winter-themed films that can enhance your Christmas spirit. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the best winter movies to watch this Christmas, ensuring you and your loved ones create unforgettable memories around the screen. The Magic of Classic Christmas Films It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) Often hailed as one of the greatest Christmas films of all time, It’s a Wonderful Life tells the story of George Bailey, a man who sacrifices his own dreams for the good of others. When he contemplates suicide on Christmas Eve, an angel shows him what life would be like without him. This classic captures the essence of hope, redemption, and the importance of community, making it a must-watch during the holiday season.

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On December 25, it's easy to forget that this date holds a wealth of significant historical events. From pivotal shifts in cultural practices to groundbreaking political changes, the day has seen its fair share of history. Let’s unwrap this day and explore the notable events that have shaped our world. One of the most impactful events associated with December 25 is undoubtedly the celebration of Christmas. This day, recognized as the birth of Jesus Christ, has evolved over centuries into a global holiday that blends religious significance with cultural traditions. The origins of Christmas date back to the early Christian church, which officially designated December 25 as the date of Christ's birth in the 4th century AD. The choice of this date was likely influenced by existing pagan festivals that celebrated the winter solstice. Over time, Christmas has transformed into a rich tapestry of customs, featuring everything from gift-giving and elaborate feasts to festive decorations

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RIVERBEND - Local kids in the foster care system will receive all the presents they asked for this Christmas, thanks to the community’s help. The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) works with Dream Home Charities out of Wood River to provide toys, clothing, hygiene products and more to local foster families across five counties every year. But after an accident on Dec. 12, 2024, left them a few hundred gifts short, the organizations put out a plea to the community to help them make up the lost gifts — and the community responded. “It was definitely a Christmas miracle,” said Sherry Gilleland. “Everyone’s going to have a Merry Christmas tomorrow.” Gilleland, owner of Dream Home Realty Centre and founder of Dream Home Charities, has provided Christmas gifts to 25 families and 85 foster kids every year for 15 years. This year, she was transporting the gifts when she realized she left the tailgate down on her truck, and

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ALTON - Santa Claus stopped by “Our Daily Show!” with CJ Nasello to talk about his experience leading up to Christmas. Local community member Steve Doering told Santa about the Bethalto Christmas Village, and Santa has been happy to visit this event every weekend since Thanksgiving, in addition to his other stops around the Riverbend. He is eager to share the true meaning of Christmas with everyone he meets this holiday season. “To me, the meaning of Christmas is always going to be love,” Santa said. “It’s always going to be grace. It’s always going to be forgiveness, acceptance. We want to make sure that people understand the real meaning of Christmas. It’s peace on Earth, goodwill to men. It’s about the birth of the savior, Jesus.” Santa and Mrs. Claus have been busy preparing for Christmas. They are training new reindeer in addition to Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Rudolph.

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ALTON - On a recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust, Deacon Herbert McGee shared his story of becoming a deacon and sharing God’s love with others. McGee noted that people come to church with different problems and experiences. He acknowledged that everyone has their own story, but God welcomes them with open arms and will guide them through their storms. “For everybody, it’s a different walk,” McGee said. “Believe me, it’s a different walk when you have Him in your life.” McGee shared that he was raised in the church, but he decided to become a deacon later in his life. He is thankful for “a great pastor” who believed in him and the others who joined him in the deaconship. He believes his life has changed for the better since becoming a deacon. Not only is his life different, but McGee himself is different. The change is noticeable to his loved ones, who see more light and peace in

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