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EAST ST. LOUIS — State Senator Christopher Belt helped secure a $2.4 million grant for the Metro East Auto Task Force — a move that will prevent carjackings, vehicle theft and break-ins throughout the community. “The uptick in carjackings is a disturbing trend,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Innocent people are being targeted by this senseless crime across Illinois — and particularly in the Metro East.” With carjackings on the rise, Belt stood alongside Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias to announce a $2.4 million grant for the Metro East Auto Task Force. The group is a collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies to investigate and prevent auto thefts, carjacking and other related crimes. “It’s vital law enforcement and community organizations have the resources they need to address the increase in crime head on,” said Belt. “Funding for the Metro East Auto Task Force allows us to hone in on our effort to recover

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The Peoria-based healthcare Ministry named one of the top healthcare providers to work for by Forbes OSF HealthCare has again been recognized on the Forbes list of Best Employers by State for 2023. It’s the fifth year in a row OSF has been included in this prestigious recognition presented by Forbes and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. The 100 top companies in Illinois were ranked with OSF HealthCare coming in at 58, including ranking eighth for healthcare and social organizations. The Peoria, Illinois-based integrated health system is owned and operated by The Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis. OSF employs more than 23,000 Mission Partners in 150 locations, including 15 hospitals throughout Illinois and Michigan. "We can only deliver on our Mission to serve persons with the greatest care and love if we attract and retain the best, most committed Mission Partners to meet the needs of our patients. To accomplish this,

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ALTON - A proposal spearheaded by Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau CEO Cory Jobe and Alton Alderman Ray Strebel to enhance Alton’s iconic Clark Bridge with LED lighting technology will be presented to the City Council at its regular meeting Wednesday, Aug. 23. The nearly $1 million project will create an artistic night skyline that residents and visitors will enjoy 365 days a year. The project will also enhance safety and security to the bridge by providing enhanced lighting. The project is slated to be funded from an Ameren Illinois incentive, dedicated tourism funds, city ARPA resources and through a partnership with the Alton Township. “This is truly an inspiring project for Alton. This project will bring a unique addition to our night skyline,” Mr. Jobe noted. “It will have a significant impact on the number of visitors we have as well as potentially extending length of stays and creating an economic boost to business owners, investors and to the community

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Note: This is one of a series of features about artists who will showcase their work at the Edwardsville Art Fair on Sept. 22-24. Avalon Eales of the Edwardsville Arts Center staff provided the information. Artist #1 Name: John Locus Location: Collinsville, IL Medium: Photography Artist's Statement: "I have always been a collector of cool, old things. As a photographer, I use some of the objects I have collected in my still-life images. I can't possibly collect and own all of the old buildings, cars, trucks, bridges, and barns that I love so much, so I photograph them in their best light and preserve their images for history. Too many times, as I return to a location or a particular building to photograph it in a different season or at a different time of day, I find that it is gone. It makes me sad to see an old acquaintance disappear, but I take comfort in knowing that, at the very least, I did my part in preserving the memory of its existence." Artist #2 Name:

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It’s like “Mean Girls,” but everyone is 80. So reads a 2018 Associated Press headline about a problem you may be surprised exists: bullying among older people living in assisted living facilities. Shunning people from cafeteria tables, gossip, vandalism, physical scuffles and residents checking their mail at night to avoid running into an unkind cohabitant are just some examples. While the issue may not be widespread, experts are telling the 65+ population, their loved ones and their caregivers why the problem exists and how to confront it. Causes Ari Lakritz, PsyD , is a clinical psychologist at OSF HealthCare who has taken a keen interest in mental health care for older folks. He points to a few reasons why senior home bullying might happen. One, the seniors arrive with untreated (or sometimes even unknown to their caregivers) mental health issues. Dr. Lakritz sums up the second reason: old habits are hard to break. “The same types of personality

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JERSEYVILLE - One individual has been charged with aggravated domestic battery, while three others were charged on meth-related offenses, including one charged with driving under the influence of drugs in Jersey County, according to recent court filings. Joseph L. Miller, 26, of Grafton, was charged with one count of aggravated domestic battery for an offense committed on Aug. 14. Court filings state Miller struck the victim “in the face with his hand, causing a closed fracture of her nasal bone.” Miller was charged with a Class 2 felony. His bail was set at $50,000. Nicholas J. Steis, 35, of Union, Mo., was charged with one felony count of unlawful possession of five to 15 grams of methamphetamine on Aug. 14. He was also charged with three misdemeanors, which included driving under the influence of drugs, changing lanes without a signal, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Steis was charged with one Class 2 felony for the meth possession charge. His bail

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ST. LOUIS - Believe it or not, despite the temps being about as hot as they can be around the St. Louis region, these are not going to hit historical highs. St. Louis meteorologist Matt Beitscher said some of the humidity in the region may hit historical highs, but the temps are dangerous either way, and those working outside are encouraged to show great caution. At 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Beitscher checked the weather gauge and it read in the mid-90s. He said it is going to get quite a bit hotter in the middle part of the week with highs in the upper 90s near 100 and low 100s in part of the region. The forecaster said a dangerous heat wave will continue through at least Thursday into part of Friday. "Heat index values of 105-115 degrees are expected with locally higher amounts possible," the National Weather Service said. "This prolonged heat, coupled with little relief due to warm nightly temperatures, will pose health risks to vulnerable groups and those susceptible to heat-related

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As the State’s Librarian, I strongly condemn these threats of violence and intimidation that are unfortunately becoming all too common at libraries in Illinois and across our nation. The bomb threats received by Illinois libraries during the past several days represent a troublesome and disturbing trend that has escalated from banning books, to harassing and criminalizing librarians and now to endangering the lives of innocent people. I wholeheartedly support our libraries, which are committed to serving our communities as safe, welcoming havens to learn and access ideas and especially our librarians who are dedicated public servants devoted to treating people with dignity and respect. Libraries and librarians protect our First Amendment right to free speech and our constitutional right to read. We must join together to stand up to fringe elements that resort to threats of violence and seek to destroy the fundamental freedoms that our nation was founded upon.

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ALTON - After years of being told she would never get pregnant, a local mom is still amazed by her 2-month-old triplet daughters. Alexus Loyd-Lockhart said that Ari, Armani and Alyson are healthy and each has their own personalities already. The family has enjoyed getting to know their three newest, littlest members. “It’s weird,” Loyd-Lockhart confessed. “It’s hit me, but then again, I look at them every day and I’m like, ‘Wow.’” Loyd-Lockhart and her husband Todd also have a 7-year-old and an 8-year-old. Both kids dote on their little sisters, though Loyd-Lockhart jokes that her son has his limits when the babies are crying. “They help a lot,” Loyd-Lockhart said. “Sometimes my son is like, ‘I’ll try this binky one time. If it doesn’t work, I’m going to the next room.’ But my daughter, she’s on board. She’s been a really big help.” Loyd-Lockhart never expected

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HARDIN - The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office has made arrests after a long investigation into a residential burglary. On January 21, 2023, the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office received the report of a residential burglary, which had occurred at a residence in Mozier, Calhoun County. The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office began an investigation, which resulted in the discovery that all items taken were of a personal nature, which included; hand-made quilts, wedding jewelry, and several firearms. Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Sergeant Zach Hardin conducted an extensive and thorough investigation; which included the execution of no less than twelve court-authorized search warrants for cell phone and GPS data. As a result of the investigation, the following subjects were arrested for the following offenses: Ashley L. Hendy, age 32, of Pleasant Hill, Illinois, was arrested for the following offenses: • Residential Burglary, • Conspiracy to Commit Residential Burglary,

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MARYVILLE — Ann Altgilbers MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, BC-ADM, CPN has recently passed a rigorous examination that qualifies them as board certified in advanced diabetes management (BC-ADM) through the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (ADCES). Attaining this certification showcases Altgilbers’ expertise in providing people with diabetes in the metro east access to high quality diabetes care and management. “Obtaining the board certification in advanced diabetes management, shows my commitment to my patients and nursing practice,” said Altgilbers. “Continuing education is so important for the care that I deliver to my patients. I will continue to keep learning and collaborating with my patients to reach their health goals.” Patients should recognize this credential as a distinguishing factor when considering a provider for diabetes management. The person holding the BC-ADM credential skillfully manages complex needs and assists people

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O’FALLON — HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital is starting a new support group to serve women with cancer in our region. The Metro-East Women’s Cancer Support Group meetings will be held on the fourth Thursday of the month (excluding July and December) at The Rec in Fairview Heights at 5:30 p.m. The first session is this week on Thursday, Aug. 24. The intent is to build a supportive community for local women affected by any type of cancer. Through education, advocacy, and empowerment, the care team aims to improve the quality of life for those who are facing the challenges of cancer, during or post treatments. It will be a safe and inclusive space where women can find comfort, resources, and inspiration, as well as the opportunity to connect with others who understand what they are going through. Sessions will be facilitated by Kareen Egerson, RN, and Dr. Camille Williams, medical director of St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Radiation Oncology Services. There

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EAST ST. LOUIS – A man who taught first grade at New Baden Elementary School and coached girls’ sports teams for Wesclin Community Unit School District 3 is facing a federal charge accusing him of soliciting child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Jonathan C. Villmer, Jr., 25, of New Baden, Illinois, was charged via criminal complaint and is scheduled for arraignment on Wednesday in U.S. District Court in the Southern District of Illinois. “Adults who prey on children and their vulnerabilities are menaces to society,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “Individuals who work in schools and also exploit minors emulate another level of outwardly dangerous behavior.” The case was initiated by an otherwise unrelated investigation by the Carmi Police Department regarding the distribution of CSAM. That investigation led to an account soliciting CSAM on Snapchat that law enforcement connected to Villmer. According to court documents, after obtaining a search

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Letter to the Editor: If you are reading the news, you are seeing information regarding the new covid EG.5 variant (Eris) and that another booster will come out this fall. Earlier this month, the Madison County Health Advisory Committee met and discussed the situation. For those who have lost count, the first two-shot series came out in early 2021, followed by boosters in the fall of 2021 and spring of 2022, and the bivalent booster introduced in September 2022. The county’s health department is reporting that interest in the most recent booster has waned. Only 17 percent of Americans have received the bi-valiant booster: 4.6% of ages 5 – 11; 7.1% of ages 12 – 17; 14.7% of ages 18 – 64; and 43.3% of age 65 and above. The decreasing interest is despite the shots being free, heavy promotion by government agencies, Big Pharma advertising and mainstream media. For some, the shots were mandatory —some people refused and lost their jobs. It’s been

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GRANITE CITY - The Mexican Honorary Commission invites everyone to join them for their September Fiesta, complete with Mexican folk dancing, traditional Hispanic food and their famous fishbowl margaritas. “This event is to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and Mexico’s Independence Day, which falls on the 16th of September,” said Alex Villasenor, the Commission’s Vice President and chair of the Fiesta. “This is something we do every year to celebrate that and to show the culture to everybody.” The Fiesta starts at 2 p.m. on Sept. 9 at 1801 Spruce Street. A cornhole tournament will kick off the event. The Mexican folklore dance group Alma de Mexico will perform at 3 p.m., and then the band Grupo Premiere will take the stage at 5 p.m. to play Mexican music. Villasenor said the Fiesta is “100% family friendly” with bounce houses and other activities planned for kids. Local craft and food vendors will be available, along with

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ALTON - Two schools in the Alton Community Unit School District 11 (ACUSD11) canceled classes today due to excessive heat. Alton High School and Gilson Brown Elementary School both closed today following air conditioning outages. Classes will resume Tuesday morning, Aug. 22. The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for the area through Thursday, Aug. 24. Temperatures are expected to climb over 100 degrees in the next few days.

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EDWARDSVILLE – Southern Illinois University Edwardsville kicked off the new academic year with enthusiasm and excitement as students started their first day of classes Monday, Aug. 21. The SIUE community came alive with students, faculty, and staff reconnecting and embarking on another year of learning and growth. “The buzz around campus on the first day of class is electric,” said Miriam Roccia, interim vice chancellor for student affairs. “New and returning students are eager to get the new academic year underway, meet their classmates, faculty, and find their classrooms.” Faculty and staff volunteers were stationed around campus with “Ask Me” signs eager to answer questions, give directions, and provide help. Monday also kicks off the Cougar Welcome, a two-week stretch of events to connect students to the SIUE campus and its resources. Events include resource and volunteer fairs, affinity celebrations, game nights, an ice cream social and

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GRAFTON - Grafton will be the latest city in the Riverbend to join the pickleball craze with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the city’s new pickleball courts set for 7 p.m. this Saturday, August 26th at Red Hawk Park. The ceremony will occur during Grafton Family Fun Day 2023, which takes place the same day and location from 6 to 9 p.m. Scott Weiner, president of Sheppard, Morgan and Schwaab, Inc., said at the Grafton City Council meeting on Aug. 15 that the pickleball court project was nearing completion. Mayor Mike Morrow said the city secured a $120,000 grant to help fund the project. Alderwoman Donna Smith said there will also be a live pickleball demonstration at the new courts. “At 7 o’clock, we will do the grand opening of the pickleball court and we have a team, I believe from Jerseyville, coming in and they will then be demonstrating what it looks like to play pickleball,” Smith said. Smith said throughout Family Fun Day, there will be

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ROXANA - Roxana community members are mourning the loss of beloved first-grade teacher Josh Bertrand. Roxana Community Unit School District 1 Superintendent Debra Kreutztrager on Sunday announced the death of Bertrand, an instructor at South Primary School. “Our hearts are heavy as we come to terms with this unexpected tragedy,” Kreutztrager said. “Mr. Bertrand played a significant role in the lives of our students and the Roxana family. “We are not addressing his death with students as a whole, but counselors are available to address individuals as needed,” she added. “Parents may provide their child (ren) with the information that they feel is appropriate prior to the start of school on Monday. “Death can be difficult to understand when it is so sudden. If your family needs any additional support or guidance on how to support your child, please do not hesitate to contact the school. There are also additional resources available on the Distric

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"The economic turnaround of our county starts now,” said Slusser. WOOD RIVER – Republican Madison County Treasurer Chris Slusser announced his campaign for County Board Chairman today, citing an urgent need for leadership in economic development and collaboration with board members and community leaders. “We need to start the engine of economic development in Madison County,” said Slusser. “We are primed and ready for a boom, but we need solid leadership in County Government to help put the pieces together. That is why I’m running for Chairman.” Slusser is a family man, public servant, and small business owner. He and his wife, Megan, reside in Wood River with their two daughters. His extensive financial professional experience includes work as an investment advisor, Chief Financial Officer for ROI Realty Partners, and as Vice President of RLP Development Company. Deeply engaged in the community, Slusser serves as a Trustee for the Baptist

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