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EAST ST. LOUIS – U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe announced today that Kenesha Burlison, 40, of St. Louis, Missouri, was sentenced to 45 months in prison in connection with her theft from her former employer, an East St. Louis charity, and aggravated identity theft. Burlison served as the Director of Human Relations for Call for Help, Inc. from 2016 until her termination in 2020. Call for Help is a longstanding charitable organization in East St. Louis, that helps people overcome a variety of personal crises, ranging from sexual assault and poverty to homelessness and mental health issues. “Kenesha Burlison’s theft from Call for Help is particularly egregious in light of the essential, lifesaving services that the organization provides to communities in Southern Illinois,” United States Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe said. “We are proud to have organizations like Call for Help in our District and will continue to hold those who steal from them accountable

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ALTON - Illinois American Water announced Monday that it is anticipated that 3rd Street between Belle and Piasa is expected to open to traffic by sometime Tuesday with the completion of pavement restoration. Illinois American Water’s recent work has been to separate the Alton combined sewer system and install new sanitary sewers. Additional work is still needed in other areas and more information on that is below. Rob Lenhardt of Mac's said Illinois American ran into some obstacles in the sewer work because of some old tunnels they didn't know were there but said again he thinks they have done an outstanding job with the project. He saluted Kamudulski Excavating and Grading, S&S Engineering, and Illinois American Waer for the speed and efficiency of how they performed their tasks in this Alton project. "People don't realize how much work goes into this," Lenhardt said, who viewed what they were doing in recent days in front of his Alton business. They have done all this in

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EDWARDSVILLE – The 14th Annual Tiger Ambush Band Classic was once again a showcase for some of the best marching bands in Illinois and Missouri. First place overall at the 14 th Annual Tiger Ambush Band Classic Saturday at the Edwardsville High School field went to Salem Community High School Marching Wildcats in Class A, Mehlville High School Marching Panthers in Class AA, Rockwood Summit High School Silver Falcon Marching Band in Class AAA and Timberland High School Marching Wolves in Class AAAA. Salem, Mehlville, Rockwood, and Timberland all posted firsts in Outstanding Color Guard, Outstanding Percussion, and Outstanding General Effect. The Belleville East High School Marching Lancers were first in Outstanding Music for AAAA. The Salem Band is directed by John A. Randolph, Timberland by Courtney White, Mehlville by Tony Brown, and Rockwood Summit by Jeremy Loui. The competition on the EHS football field in the Sports Complex drew an estimated 4,000 spectators throughout

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WOOD RIVER - The 4th Annual Wood River Food Truck Festival is officially planned for Saturday, October 1 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in downtown Wood River. Food trucks will be parked along Ferguson Avenue between 1st St. and Wood River Avenue, and the event will feature live music, vendors and more. Several food trucks will be at this year’s event, including: Burgers STL Taylor's Fire & Smoke BBQ, LLC. Pig on a Wing Mericue Food Truck and Catering Cake POP a GO-GO The Taco Shack Presents T Mo's Eats Mo’z Sweet Treats Andy Russell with the Wood River Enrichment Network said if other food trucks are interested in participating, they can reach out through the Wood River Enrichment Network’s Facebook page , where more information about the event can also be found. This year will also see the return of vendors and live music, which Russell said were both popular at last year’s festival. “Last year we had several vendors sell out! We

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ALTON - A Meet and Greet, Question and Answer session with some of the candidates that are running for election in November will take place from 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2022, at the Alton Flood Memorial Location at Ardent Mills in Downtown Alton. Candidates who will appear are Senator Kris Tharp, a candidate for the Illinois State Senate, Joe Silkwood, a candidate for Illinois state representative, Ebony Huddleston, a candidate for circuit judge, and John Barry Julian, a candidate for Circuit Judge. John Barry Julian, a candidate for Circuit Judge, and Ryan Jump and candidate for Chief Circuit Judge, will also be in attendance. Abe Lee Barham, the organizer of the event, said this will be a good opportunity for people to come out and ask questions of candidates. “We encourage people to ask questions and express your views and voice,” he said. “Every vote counts.” For more information, contact 618-799-9147.

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GODFREY - The Great Godfrey Maze opened back up for the season over the weekend. The ever-so-popular attraction located within Glazebrook Park has been a hit with families and is perfect for the little ones. The maze operates only on weekends. The hours are 6-10 p.m. on Fridays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays. The going rate for the maze is $7 for adults and can be enjoyed peacefully during the day, or for the little more adventurous in the pitch black of night. Flashlights are recommended at night of course. The maze officially opened on Friday, but the larger crowds weren't until Saturday evening. There were plenty of people out to enjoy the attraction. The layout of the maze changes from year to year and this year it is circus themed. Instead of the usual corn, this year's maze is comprised of tall-grown hemp. The change was forced after a short crop last year. The Godfrey Parks and Recreation Department had no choice but to cancel the maze las

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY - On Friday, September 16, 2022, the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office issued warrants on suspects Demetrius Green, 36 years of age, of the 6800 block of Robbins Avenue in St. Louis, Missouri 63133, for Robbery First Degree and Armed Criminal Action; and Andre Vantreece, 42 years of age, of the 4900 block of Genevieve Avenue in St. Louis, Missouri 63120, for Robbery First Degree, Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. Mugshots of Green and Vantreece are attached. Green and Vantreece are each being held on $100,000 cash only, no 10% 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 for both defendants reads: On September 3, 2022, at 5:45 PM, at the Wal-Mart store at 3270 Telegraph Road, defendants placed two computer monitors into a shopping cart and pushed it towards a set of exit doors, having made no attempt to pay

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) issued the following statements after the family of Mark Frerichs, an Illinoisan held hostage for more than two and a half years after being abducted in Afghanistan in 2020, announced that Mark has been freed from Taliban custody: “It’s a profound relief that Mark Frerichs, a Navy Veteran who served our nation honorably, is now safely back in American hands after being kidnapped in Afghanistan more than two and a half years ago,” said Duckworth. “I’m thrilled that his family, who have long been Mark’s champions, will get to reunite with him. I applaud President Biden, who I spoke with personally about the need to get Mark home, for taking the steps necessary to prove that we do not leave Americans behind.” “I am deeply heartened by Mark’s long overdue release and the relief it will bring to him and his family. The tragic and cruel use of him

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CHICAGO – Illinois joined six other Midwestern states in announcing the development of the Midwest Hydrogen Coalition, an agreement that will boost the state’s decarbonization efforts. In addition to Illinois, the coalition includes Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana. “Innovative solutions to fighting climate change require collaborative efforts. Through the partnership of the Midwestern Hydrogen Coalition, Illinois will play a major role in fostering a healthy economic environment for the hydrogen production market in the Midwest, creating more clean energy sector jobs and lowering carbon emissions in the manufacturing and transportation sectors across the state and region,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Additionally, this landmark multistate agreement empowers the state’s world-class colleges and universities to form working relationships with their counterparts in neighboring states, enhancing the research and development

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ALTON - Bring your furry friends to the Canine Carnival at the Alton Farmer’s & Artisans’ Market on Saturday, Sept 24 th from 8:00 a.m. until Noon for a morning full of fun just for them. At this free event organized by Alton Main Street and Hope Animal Rescues, there will be many activities to enjoy and pet-related vendor booths to browse. Plus, you can learn about many local animal welfare charities and services for your pets. Features of the event include a Pet Parade at 10:00 a.m. and a Costume Contest at 10:30 a.m. Bring your dog dressed to impress, because the winner of the costume contest will receive a $20 gift certificate to Petco! Rescue agencies will be holding an adopt-a-thon, so if you are looking for a new best friend come to meet some loveable dogs who need a good home. There will be face painting, balloon animals, and activities for pets and families. Vendors will be selling pet-related products such as handmade dog treats, toys, bandanas, clothing, collars

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce is again spearheading the community’s award-winning restaurant week dining campaign, SAVOR 2022©, to be held from Saturday, October 1 through Monday, October 10. Several locally owned restaurants including foodie favorites like 1818 Chophouse, Bella Milano, Cleveland Heath, and Chava’s Mexican Restaurant are busy crafting their restaurant week specials. This year’s initiative will also feature brand new destinations like 1818 Offshore, Twisted Biscuit, and Creations by Kiki. Specially priced offerings – at convenient price points of $15 for lunch and $30 or $60 for dinner - will be highlighted by each participating establishment in addition to the regular menu. “SAVOR 2022© is a salute to our community’s restaurateurs, cuisine, and diners, and a celebration of the delicious fare that makes our region a culinary hot spot,” said Desiree Bennyhoff, Ed/Glen Chamber president

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MADISON - World Wide Technology Raceway (WWTR) solidified its standing as a premier motorsports venue as NASCAR officials today confirmed the 1.25-mile oval’s second year as a host track on the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series schedule. “Our inaugural race in June delivered a sold-out crowd and fantastic racing,” said Curtis Francois, WWTR owner, and CEO. “We are thrilled to have NASCAR return, along with our title and presenting sponsors – the Illinois Department of Tourism and TicketSmarter – to deliver another epic weekend of racing.” Details on the inaugural race weekend attendance and events are featured in the WWTR Impact Report . The start time will be announced at a later date, as will details related to the Confluence Music Festival, which entertains fans throughout race weekend with live music and STEM-related activities. The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Toyota 200 will add to the weekend of racing and take the track on Saturday, June

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MARYVILLE — State Senator Kris Tharp is launching a listening tour in the Metro East to address concerns with the SAFE-T Act. “My family and I have worked in law enforcement our entire lives,” said Tharp (D-Bethalto). “My priorities remain ensuring our communities are safe, keeping criminals off our streets and providing law enforcement with the tools to do their job. The goal of my listening tour is to make sure these vital concerns are addressed and heard in Springfield.” Newly-appointed Tharp does not support several provisions in the SAFE-T Act and is working with the law enforcement community to file new legislation to address concerns about: Ensuring those accused of violent offenses are kept behind bars until trial to keep communities safe; Providing an appropriate amount of judicial discretion while trying cases and; Clarifying the definition of flight risks to ensure it is clear and address the issues created by individuals who fail to

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GILLESPIE - I know there are massive numbers of coffee drinkers in the world. After crude oil, coffee is the most sought commodity in the world. My parents are coffee drinkers. They start - and end- each day with coffee. They drink it with breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert... or just because. And they drink it black. According to the website for Gotcha Latte Cafe in Gillespie, no one knows exactly how or when coffee was discovered, though there are many legends about its origin. Coffee grown worldwide can trace its heritage back centuries to the ancient coffee forests on the Ethiopian plateau. Legend says the goat herder Kaldi first discovered the potential of these beloved beans when he noticed that after eating the berries from a certain tree, his goats became so energetic that they did not want to sleep at night. Kaldi reported his findings to the abbot of the local monastery, who made a drink with the berries and found that it kept him alert through the long hours of evening prayer.

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ALTON - Homecoming Week has now come to a close for Marquette Catholic High School and was capped off by the crowning of the school's Homecoming king and queen. The Explorers Homecoming Court took part in a short parade Friday evening before the football game. The students met at McKinley St. in Alton, looped around past Johnson’s Corner, and went up State St. toward Public School Stadium. They were also all introduced during the game’s halftime. The Homecoming Court consisted of Aiden O’Keefe, Kylie Murray, Jack Spain, Serenity Eldridge, Hayden Sherman, Kailey Vickrey, Myles Paniagua, Hanna Marshall, Charlie Fahnestock, Nia Ballinger, Max Cogan, Livy Kratschmer, Nathan Bennett, and Olivia Byrd. It was two seniors who took home the honors Saturday night. Aiden O’Keefe was crowned king and Hanna Marshall queen. The two are both student-athletes and quite popular at school.

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GLEN CARBON – Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois held their annual United We Lead Gala on Saturday, September 10 in O’Fallon, Illinois. The event was a tremendous success, raising nearly $120,000 for the organization. The United We Lead Gala, themed The Girl Scout Difference this year, brings together a wide range of people who share a common goal – to empower today’s girls to become tomorrow’s leaders. Guests were entertained by musician Erin Bode, enjoyed a delicious meal, listened to first-hand experiences from current Girl Scouts, participated in various auctions, and heard from recent U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame inductee Dr. Sandra Magnus. Dr. Magnus is a former Girl Scout and a very decorated astronaut who hails from Belleville, Illinois. She spoke of her pre-college plan to eventually work for NASA and how her path to that goal evolved, discovering previously unknown opportunities along the way. Dr. Magnus commended Girl Scouts for providing girls

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ST. LOUIS - Today, GRAMMY and Emmy Award-winning musician, singer, composer, legendary live performer, and multi-platinum best-selling artist, Harry Connick, Jr., announces “A Holiday Celebration 2022 Tour.” As 2022 draws to a close, Harry is inviting fans to celebrate the holidays with him and his band as he crosses the country in concert this holiday season. Connick Jr. will appear at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4, at Stifel Theatre in St. Louis Beginning November 18th in Hershey, PA at Hershey Theatre, the tour will make stops across the U.S. including Washington, DC’s famed Kennedy Center (November 21st), back-to-back nights at DPAC in Durham, NC (November 22nd and 23rd) and at New York City’s esteemed David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center (November 27th & 28th); along with two nights in Mesa, AZ at Mesa Arts Center (December 12th & 13th), a three-night stand at Hollywood Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles (December 15th, 16th, & 17th), and two nights at Seattle’s

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LITCHFIELD - Some people grow a garden simply for its beauty. Some people grow a garden to produce food. But have you ever grown tools in your garden? There are some plants out there that can provide you with tools rather than just a pretty flower to enjoy or a bite to eat. For examaple, you can grow luffa sponges in your garden? That's right! Luffas are actually a gourd. The plants get huge and grow wild at the end of the season. They produce 10” gourds that you allow to dry on the vine. The fibers inside form the luffa sponge. Once the gourds are dry, peel the skin off and allow the sponge inside to dry completely. You can then shake the seeds out and rinse the gourd. Once the gourd is clean, you can use it as a great shower luffa or kitchen scrubby. They have natural antimicrobial properties preventing them from stinking and molding. I cut one luffa up into three pieces and used those three sponges all year long to wash dishes before they finally wore out. They never got stink

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CARLINVILLE - One of the larger music festivals in small-town Illinois music festival returns this year with an array of musical genres. The 2022 SamJam Music and Brewfest will be held on Saturday, Sept. 24 from noon until 10 p.m. at the Macoupin County Fairgrounds, just north of Carlinville. The event will feature everything from R&B to country and rock and roll, jazz, and American folk. SamJam was created in 2014 to honor Sam Oswald, who has endured years of struggle with neurofibromatosis (NF), which affects 1 in every 2,500 worldwide. NF is most often noticed in childhood or early adulthood, and appears equally across sexes, races, and ethnic groups. “We’ve become known for top-quality music,” said Sam’s father, Peter Oswald, who has spearheaded the SamJam events. “Every year, our fans tell us how good our music is, and how much they enjoy listening to it. Creating that type of fan experience is really important to us, and every year new people come

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The arrival of the steamer Talisman in 1832 brought excitement to Springfield and other cities along the Sangamon River. However, the joy was short-lived. Though area settlers hoped the Sangamon was suited to boat traffic, the river proved unnavigable, a blow to the economic prospects of the area. The Talisman, described by historian Benjamin Thomas as “a small cabin steamer,” first made news in the area in early 1832. That January 19, an advertisement in the Cincinnati Daily Gazette announced that “the splendid upper cabin steamer Talisman will leave for Portland Landing, Springfield, on the Sangamo River and all the intermediate ports and landings,” including Beardstown and Naples. St. Louis papers also carried the same ad. The boat was under the sail of Capt. Vincent A. Bogue, who also owned the cargo, and operated by master J.M. Pollock. Settlers hailed the announcement with great enthusiasm, and the population spiked almost immediately. New towns were laid

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