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ALTON - The Hayner Public Library District will host their fourth annual Local Author Book Fair in December, and they’re looking for writers. On Dec. 6, 2025, at Alton Square Mall, community members can browse books by local authors and get to know the writing community in the Riverbend. Writers are encouraged to reach out to Hayner Library for more information about securing a booth at the festival. Executive Director Mary Cordes warns that the 25 available booths will go quickly. “The big one is our Local Author Book Fair,” Cordes said. “This is our fourth year of having this. They fill up fast. We have spots for 25 local authors, and I already have people who have emailed and called me over the weekend.” The fair will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 6 in the courtyard between the Alton Square Mall library and JCPenney at the mall. Cordes emphasized that they only have space for 25 authors, but they will have a waitlist available. The

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee, released the following statement amid reports that the Department of Homeland Security requested 100 military personnel be sent to Illinois. “Donald Trump continues threatening Chicago and Illinois with his unwarranted, unwanted and unjust military deployments. Now, his administration is seriously considering plans to deploy 100 troops purportedly to protect federal immigration agents who have used excessive force against Americans simply exercising their First Amendment rights. Officials elected by the people of Illinois have made clear to Trump that there is no need for the military on the streets of Illinois. This is government overreach at its worst. “Even as Trump violates the law and stokes chaos as a pretext for deploying troops, our local law enforcement will continue prioritizing Illinoisans’

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CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker hosted a press conference with elected officials, community advocates, and local leaders to condemn the significant escalation over the weekend of aggressive and alarming tactics used by the Trump Administration’s ICE and Customs and Border Patrol federal agents against journalists, peaceful protesters, and families across the city of Chicago and surrounding suburbs. The Governor also announced that the Illinois National Guard was notified that the Department of Homeland Security sent a memo to the Department of War requesting 100 military personnel be sent to Illinois. Over the weekend, there were numerous, confirmed reports of federal agents abusing their power, intimidating innocent civilians, violating the rights of due process, and waging war on law-abiding Illinoisians. This continues to be a manufactured crisis focused on causing chaos and mayhem, with the aim of creating a pretext to deploy military troops against Chicago and its

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ALTON – An O’Fallon, Mo., resident faces charges in Madison County after allegedly breaking into a boat at the Alton Marina and stealing several items from within. Jeffrey Reed, 59, of O’Fallon, Mo., was charged on Sept. 24, 2025 with a Class 2 felony count of burglary and a Class 3 felony count of theft. Reed allegedly entered a boat at the Alton Marina with the intent to commit a theft on May 25, 2025. He is additionally accused of stealing from the owner of the watercraft several items, including a mini fridge, two electric buffing machines, one electric grinder, two Duralast batteries, a chair, and a power washer nozzle, having a combined value of over $500. The Alton Police Department presented the case against Reed, who was ordered released from custody pending trial. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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ST. LOUIS – At the request of Mayor Cara Spencer, the Bi-State Development Board of Commissioners voted to approve a contract with the planning and engineering firm HNTB to begin a detailed exploration of potential Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in the Green Line Transit Corridor. After years of study and engineering for Green Line light rail, estimated project costs remained stubbornly high, and the possibility of securing federal funding, necessary for the construction of a light rail project, remains low given the current priorities of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). “High-quality and high-capacity public transit is necessary for all cities,” said Mayor Spencer. “It’s imperative we have a project that meets our objectives and qualifies for federal funding, which is necessary to make the project viable. Unfortunately, the Green Line, as proposed, has a $1.1 billion price tag for just 10 stations and less than 6 miles, making this project out of

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COLLINSVILLE – More than 200 guests came together on Thursday, September 11, 2025, for the American Cancer Society’s Farm to Table Metro East , presented by MRHFM, raising an outstanding $81,000 to support the fight against cancer. Held at the Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville, the evening featured seasonal dishes from over a dozen top local restaurants, live music by Corey Evitts, and interactive experiences including the wine toss, key to recovery challenge, silent auction, and the Reflections of Hope tribute area. Guests also heard from featured speaker Mark Joiner, a firefighter with the Granite City Fire Department , who shared his powerful personal cancer journey and message of resilience. Farm to Table Metro East raises funds to advance the mission of the American Cancer Society, funding groundbreaking research, advocacy, and patient services that help people facing cancer today. 2025 Participating Restaurants Included: Bella Milano, 1933 House o

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) introduced a new bipartisan bill today to hold artificial intelligence (AI) companies accountable for harm caused by their systems while allowing companies to continue innovating and developing beneficial AI systems. “Democrats and Republicans don’t agree on much these days, but we’ve struck a remarkable bipartisan note in protecting children online. Big Tech’s time to police itself is over. Kids and adults across the country are turning to AI chatbots for advice and information, but greedy tech companies have designed these products to protect their own bottom line—not users’ safety. By opening the courtroom and allowing victims to sue, our bill will force AI companies to develop their products with safety in mind. Our message to AI companies is clear: keep innovating, but do it responsibly.

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ALTON - Alton Memorial Health Services Foundation’s 16th Duck Pluckers, Deer Skinners and Fish Hookers Ball saw many firsts this year; large number of first-time attendees, large number of first-time sponsors and the largest amount of funds raised at $250,000. An increase of $50,000 over prior year’s earnings. “What a great year”, noted Ken Balsters, AMHSF vice chair. “Helping Alton Memorial Hospital (“AMH”) to keep an outstanding fleet of ambulances on the road is a great benefit to all our first responders and residents in the area.” Funds will go toward the purchase of another Alton Memorial Hospital ambulance with signature camo doors equipped with more than $150,000 worth of life-saving equipment. AMH president Dave Braasch, says “This year’s event was beyond our expectations.” “The crowd was enthusiastic and showed up to help us accomplish our mission to keep quality emergency medical care close

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ST. LOUIS – The City of St. Louis’ Office of Recovery and Community Development Administration (CDA) announced a new Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for the Tornado Recovery Vacant Unit Turns, designed to quickly repair vacant rental units and make them available to families displaced by the May 16 tornado. The Tornado Recovery Vacant Unit Turns grant funding will provide up to $2.5 million in Rams Settlement funds to cover minor repairs, maintenance, and updates to vacant rental housing. CDA will offer financial assistance of up to an average of $10,000 per unit, with all units required to be occupied by tornado-impacted families by December 31, 2025. Applications Open: Sept. 26, 2025, at 5 pm Public Hearing & Workshop: Oct. 7, 2025, at 10 AM Applications Due: Oct. 31, 2025, at 4 PM or until all available funding is obligated. NOTE: Applicants should apply as soon as possible for this funding. Applications will be reviewed and rated on a rolling basis

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Imagine a practice so accessible, so effortless, yet powerful enough to reduce anxiety, boost mood, and enhance cognitive function. According to a 2019 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health , spending just 20 minutes in a natural setting can significantly lower cortisol levels, a biological marker of stress. But what if the timing of these walks could amplify their benefits? Autumn, with its distinct sensory experiences, offers a unique backdrop for mental rejuvenation. The Psychological Impact of Nature Exposure Numerous studies have established that spending time in nature positively affects mental health. The concept of "nature therapy" or "ecotherapy" has gained traction as research highlights how natural environments reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Nature walks, in particular, encourage mindfulness and present opportunities for restorative experiences. When individuals engage with natural surroundings, their brains

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September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. It's a reminder that the disease is manageable when caught early. Uwais Zaid, MD , a urologist who provides care at OSF HealthCare, is urging men to get screening appointments on their calendar at the right time. That’s critical, he says, because some people who develop prostate cancer will not show symptoms. “It is something we certainly do take seriously in urology,” Dr. Zaid says. What is the prostate? The prostate is a male gland about the size and shape of a walnut. It surrounds the upper part of the urethra, or the tube that carries urine from the bladder. The prostate makes some of the fluid that’s part of semen. Risk factors Dr. Zaid says the risk for prostate cancer increases with age. Other risks: “African American men are at a higher risk,” Dr. Zaid says. “Certain dietary things like too much red meat and greasy, fatty food. And certain type of exposures such as Agent Orange

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September 30th has long been a date marked by remarkable events throughout history, crossing continents and centuries. Backing up to 1966, the Soviet Union launched Luna 11, an unmanned spacecraft designed to orbit the Moon and gather detailed reconnaissance data. Luna 11’s mission contributed valuable information about lunar topography and radiation levels, paving the way for future manned lunar missions during the space race era. The mission underscored the intense scientific competition between superpowers that characterized much of the mid-20th century. In the realm of arts and culture, 1927 saw the premiere of the classic silent film “Metropolis,” directed by Fritz Lang. This German expressionist work is celebrated for its visionary depiction of a dystopian future and remains influential in both cinematic and cultural studies. “Metropolis” has inspired countless filmmakers and continues to be a touchstone for discussions about technology, society,

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O’FALLON, Ill. — Prairie Cardiovascular is pleased to welcome Dr. Hasan Rehman, FACC, FSCAI, to its team in O’Fallon. Dr. Rehman is a board-certified interventional cardiologist with advanced training in cardiovascular medicine and a strong commitment to personalized, patient-centered care. He specializes in diagnosing and treating complex heart and vascular conditions. Dr. Rehman is now scheduling patients at 3 St. Elizabeth’s Blvd. in O’Fallon. Dr. Rehman performs minimally invasive procedures to restore blood flow and prevent life-threatening complications. He also offers a range of diagnostic services, including echocardiograms, nuclear stress testing, vascular ultrasound and cardiac CT scans. He believes in building strong patient relationships through open communication and shared decision-making, ensuring every patient feels informed and empowered throughout their care journey. To learn more about the doctors of Prairie in O’Fallon,

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ALTON — The Alton Police Department responded to a report of battery and criminal damage Monday night, Sept. 29, 2025, in the 1900 block of Gross Street, where a male suspect battered two known individuals and damaged a vehicle before firing gunshots into the air, authorities said. At 9:58 p.m. on Sept. 29, Alton officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving calls of a battery and property damage. While en route, additional reports indicated that two gunshots had been heard. "According to a preliminary investigation, the male suspect assaulted two people he knew, causing non-life-threatening injuries. He then used a landscaping brick to break the windshield of one victim’s vehicle. As the suspect fled, he reportedly fired two gunshots into the air," said Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford. Law enforcement, including Alton officers, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wood River Police Department, established a perimeter and conducted an extensive search

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COLLINSVILLE – Madison County authorities have charged two men from Belleville and Collinsville with mob action after allegedly attacking the same victim in public and damaging their cell phone. Carson M. Jones, 33, of Belleville, and Juan Manuel, 21, of Collinsville, were both charged in two related cases with one count each of mob action and criminal damage to property (each Class 4 felonies). Jones and Manuel are accused of striking the same victim about the head and body while at the ZX gas station at 8407 Collinsville Road in Collinsville on Sept. 15, 2025. Both were additionally charged with causing over $500 worth of damage to the same victim’s cell phone. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office presented both cases against Jones and Manuel, both of whom were granted pretrial release from custody with additional conditions. Under the conditions of their pretrial release, Jones and Manuel have been ordered to have no contact with and remain at least 500 feet

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Key takeaways: OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony's Health Center in Alton, Illinois, has achieved Magnet with Distinction status from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The designation means patients can be certain they are getting the best nursing care. Fewer than 8% of hospitals nationwide have achieved this honor. OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center has received its first-ever Magnet® Recognition for nursing excellence from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Most importantly, this recognition comes "with distinction," making OSF Saint Anthony’s the 46th hospital in the United States to be recognized with this award. Magnet with Distinction™ recognizes hospitals based on quality patient care and nursing excellence. Fewer than 8% of hospitals in the U.S. have earned Magnet with Distinction status. Additionally, the Magnet with Distinction™ program was created as a special designation to "celebrate hospitals and

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Get ready for a warm day with a high of 90 degrees and a low dipping to 54 degrees tonight. The sky will be mostly sunny with a few clouds here and there. There's no rain in sight, so enjoy the dry weather as persistent dry conditions may continue to worsen drought through the weekend. Allergy alert: Mold levels are moderate, ragweed is low, and grass pollen is also low. Air quality is moderate with particle pollution present, so if you're sensitive, you might want to take precautions. Tonight will be partly cloudy with lows around 54 degrees, feeling cool. Looking ahead to tomorrow, expect a high of 85°F and a low of 57°F. The day will have intermittent clouds with plenty of sunshine making it very warm. Night will turn partly cloudy again with comfortable temperatures. For more details, visit https://riverbender.com/weather .

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STAUNTON - Jessica Korunka’s father, Larry, lost all of his belongings in a recent Staunton house fire, leaving him without basic necessities and critical medical equipment. The fire occurred at their residence, where Larry was fortunately able to escape unharmed. Larry, who lives with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure, lost his oxygen machine and important medications in the blaze. Replacing these medical essentials is vital to maintaining his health and safety. Jessica Korunka has appealed for urgent assistance to provide clothing, shoes, food, and medical supplies for her father. She emphasized that any donations will go directly toward replacing his medications, oxygen equipment, and daily needs as they work to help him recover from this loss. “We are so grateful for the love, support, and kindness during this difficult time,” Korunka said. The GoFundMe link to assist Larry can be found by clicking here.

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville High School Chamber Orchestra recorded a captivating performance at the annual Edwardsville Art Fair on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, showcasing the talents of its student musicians. The event took place at Edwardsville City Park, drawing attendees to enjoy a blend of visual and performing arts. The orchestra featured violinists Vylai Dombrowski, Elise Larrew, Paige Muskopf, Izzy Robinson, Gwen Harkey, Elisabeth Preston, and Emma Spencer. Viola players included Ian Kim, Liya Perham, and Dori Kelly. Cellists Darby Christian, Dylan Brueggeman, Eleanor Reynolds, Priyalakshmi Janardhan, Poe Wilkens, and Lily Reynolds contributed to the performance, along with double bassist August Meiser. Following the chamber orchestra’s set, the Edwardsville Chamber Choir, directed by Emily Ottwein, took the stage and continued to capture the audience with highly regarded musical offerings. The performances were part of the art fair’s effort to provide a diverse

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MADISON COUNTY — The Madison County Coroner's Office on Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, confirmed the identity of two people who died following a head-on collision on Illinois State Route 162 in Pontoon Beach on the evening of Sept. 19, 2025. Madison County Coroner Nicholas P. Novacich identified the victims as Jody M. Rinderer, 47, of Granite City, and Victoria L. Goss, 32, also of Granite City. The crash occurred at 7:36 p.m. Sept. 19, 2025, in the 5000 block of State Route 162. Rinderer was driving a 2003 maroon Chevrolet Silverado, which burst into flames after the collision. He was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was positively identified by a tattoo. Goss was the driver of a 2017 blue Buick Enclave that sustained heavy front-end damage. She was conscious following the crash and transported by Rural Med Ambulance to Gateway Regional Medical Center, where she later died from her injuries. A juvenile passenger in Goss’s vehicle was taken to a hospital in St. Louis by Granit

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