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EAST ST. LOUIS - United Congregations of Metro East, an organization that works to address social, racial, and economic issues in southeastern Illinois, has joined the New Leaf Illinois network to help people clear past cannabis and other eligible arrests or convictions off their records. New Leaf Illinois is a statewide network of nonprofit organizations, funded by the State of Illinois, that provides free expungement legal services. United Congregations of Metro East received a $25,000 grant from the Illinois Equal Justice Foundation to provides legal information, resources, and help navigating the justice system to people who are struggling with career advancement in the East St. Louis community and surrounding areas. “Transformation begins by prioritizing people and equipping them with the resources they need to thrive,” said Darnell Tingle, Director of United Congregations of Metro East. “Supporting record expungement empowers individuals to move beyond their pas

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GODFREY - The Village of Godfrey is considering a ban on the sale or possession of kratom, which would impose fines for each violation and criminal penalties under certain circumstances. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Kratom “commonly refers to an herbal substance that can produce opioid and stimulant-like effects.” Most users report using kratom to manage pain or opioid addictions. “While there are no uses for kratom approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, people report using kratom to manage drug withdrawal symptoms and cravings (especially related to opioid use), pain, fatigue and mental health problems,” the NIDA states. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) notes kratom “is not controlled under the Controlled Substances Act,” leaving regulation to state and local governments. Kratom products can legally be sold in Illinois to individuals over 18 years old, but local municipalities have

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Arts Center is already looking ahead to an exciting year. Beth Browne, executive director of EAC, explained that their recent move to 340 Montclaire Avenue in Edwardsville was a big adjustment, but they still managed to increase their programming by 18% in 2024. Now, as 2025 gets underway, the center has big plans for the coming months, with several events lined up already. “Art just brings so much joy,” Browne said. “We’ve got lots of great programming coming forward, so we’re very excited about that.” EAC will kick off the year with ARTini, a night that “celebrates the fusion of art and mixology,” Browne said. On Saturday, March 8, 2025, community members are invited to the Leclaire Room at N.O. Nelson to enjoy art-inspired cocktails from 18 restaurants around the Edwardsville area. Artists will also be creating pieces onsite, which will then be auctioned off at the end of the night. You

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GODFREY - The Madison County Sheriff's Office is investigating a fatal traffic crash involving a bicyclist that occurred on Dec. 29, 2024, in unincorporated Alton. The incident took place in the evening hours at the intersection of Humbert Road and Randolph Street. The victim, identified as 58-year-old Steven J. Coryell, was struck by a blue pickup truck while riding his bicycle northbound on Humbert Road. Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver of the truck was also traveling northbound when the collision occurred. Following the crash, the driver fled the scene, continuing north on Humbert Road. First responders, including deputies from the Madison County Sheriff's Office and personnel from the Godfrey Fire Department, attempted life-saving measures on Coryell, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. Madison County Coroner Nicholas Novacich later identified the preliminary cause of death as blunt head and chest trauma. The Metro East Crash Assistance Team (MECAT) assisted

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ST. LOUIS — A winter weather system is set to move through the St. Louis area from Thursday night into Friday morning, Jan. 10, 2025, bringing light snow to southern Missouri and the Interstate 44 corridor. The Metro East area should also see some snowfall. Melissa Delia, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in St. Louis, reported that snowfall amounts are expected to range from a dusting in areas south of the I-44 corridor to up to 4 inches in far southeastern Missouri. The National Weather Service said it would have more information on Wednesday afternoon about the potential snow totals with this next front. Delia emphasized that the upcoming weather event will not mirror the significant snow, ice, and sleet accumulation seen in recent days. "While snow is expected, amounts won’t be anywhere near what we saw over the weekend," she said. The forecast indicates that Metro areas may receive a dusting of up to 2 inches of snow, but there remains some uncertainty

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EAST ST. LOUIS - Danea Gathing is spearheading a fundraising effort to cover the funeral expenses for her uncle, Kavin Gathing, who was murdered alongside his roommate on New Year’s Day. The tragic incident has left the family seeking assistance as they navigate this difficult time. Kavin Gathing, described by his niece as a beloved member of his community, was killed under circumstances that remain unclear. “No one seems to know anything as to why this happened, given the fact that my uncle bothered no one and was loved by the people in his community,” Danea Gathing stated. In light of the unexpected expenses associated with his passing, Danea Gathing has initiated a GoFundMe campaign. She noted that her uncle did not have any arrangements in place for funeral costs, and her family is struggling to cover these expenses. “We realize that money is tight, as it is for us, so anything is greatly appreciated,” she said. The GoFundMe campaign is intended

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EAST ST. LOUIS - East St. Louis School District 189 will implement a full eLearning day on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025, to provide virtual instruction for its students. The decision aims to ensure continuity in education while utilizing district-issued Chromebooks for remote learning. On this day, students are required to log on to their virtual classes from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Attendance will be taken, and teachers will communicate schedules for breaks and lunch. Consistent engagement and participation will be essential for attendance verification. Parents are encouraged to help facilitate their children's learning by ensuring they have a distraction-free space and access to their Google Classroom. Additional resources, including the Clever Portal, can be found on the district's website at www.estl189.com. This portal is the primary access point for students to engage with instructional materials on eLearning days. For technical assistance, parents and students can reach out to the district

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GODFREY - The Nature Institute is rolling out the welcome mat for adults this year! Known for its awesome kids’ programs, TNI is ready to sprinkle some nature magic on the grown-ups too. Get ready for two exciting events in January: a cozy book club and the kick-off of the Wilderness Wisdom series. First up, the Naturally Curious Book Club is here to save you from freezing your toes off! There is no need to brave the chill for this winter adventure. Grab a warm drink and dive into Slow Birding by Joan E. Strassman, where you’ll discover tales about our feathered friends that you might have overlooked. Join us at the Mississippi Sanctuary office on January 15 at 5:30 p.m. for an evening chat, or swing by on January 16 at 10 am for a morning meetup. This free gathering is a perfect chance to mingle with fellow nature lovers and maybe even spot an eagle. Also, TNI is launching the Wilderness Wisdom series, responding to the buzz around our Bushcraft for Teens program. Get read

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Office of Undergraduate Admissions invites students who are interested in transferring to SIUE from a community college or another university to attend Transfer Preview. Designed specifically for prospective transfer students and their guests, the event, slated for Friday, Feb. 7, will provide insights into the transfer process, including admission requirements, transfer credits, student support services, and financial aid. “Transfer Preview will be a great opportunity for prospective transfer students to get a feel for what SIUE has to offer,” said Alicia Taylor, associate director of admissions in the Office of Admissions. Transfer Preview is more than just an informational session; it is a chance for transfer students to begin envisioning the next chapter of their educational journey at SIUE. Attendees will connect with faculty, staff, and current SIUE students to learn more about academic programs, transfer-friendly

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GODFREY – The Village of Godfrey has announced the suspension of its yard waste drop-off site on Stamper Lane, effective today. The site will remain closed for the winter season. Residents of Godfrey who have full bags of yard waste ready for disposal are encouraged to contact the Mayor’s office at (618) 466-3324, extension 1, to arrange for drop-off over the next week. The village has stated that any stickers purchased for yard waste bags will be honored when the site reopens in the spring. This seasonal closure is part of the village's ongoing efforts to manage waste disposal efficiently during the colder months.

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A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the family of 19-year-old Elijah Madison, who recently died tragically. The fundraiser, organized by Trenton Saettele, aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with funeral arrangements and memorial services. Elijah Madison's unexpected death has prompted an outpouring of grief from friends and community members, who remember him as a kind and vibrant individual. "His loss has left an immense void in our hearts," Saettele stated in the campaign description. The fundraiser seeks to provide support during this difficult time, with all donations designated for the family’s immediate needs. The GoFundMe page highlights the importance of community support, inviting contributions as well as thoughts and prayers from those unable to donate. "Your generosity, love, and support are greatly appreciated as we honor Elijah’s memory and celebrate the beautiful life he lived," the campaign states. As of now, the community

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GODFREY - The 47th Annual Harman Family Bluegrass Show is slated for this weekend, and Mike Harman promises old-fashioned fun and toe-tapping tunes. Hosted by the Harman Family Bluegrass Band, the show is a beloved January tradition for many people in the Riverbend region. This year’s performance is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, at Lewis and Clark Community College. Mike, the family’s patriarch, can’t wait to share music with the community for the 47th year in a row. “People long for just the simple things in life, it seems like, more than the high-falootin’ stuff. That’s kind of what we are, simple, and we just hope that other people enjoy it,” he said. “There are several family bands in the bluegrass world and have been for a long time, but I don’t think any of them have been together for 47 years.” The Harman Family Bluegrass Band is made up of Mike, his siblings, their spouses, and their children.

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WOOD RIVER - Kaylynn Buttry, a junior at East Alton-Wood River High School, has garnered recognition for her exceptional performance in girls' basketball, specifically for scoring 32 points in a game recently against Bunker Hill, marking the sixth-highest scoring output in Oiler girls basketball history. She has also led the Oilers in scoring several games over the 2024-2025 season. Buttry has been playing basketball since the third grade and expresses a deep passion for the sport, citing its intensity and competitiveness as her favorite aspects. In addition to her basketball achievements, Buttry maintains a perfect GPA, demonstrating her commitment to academics alongside athletics. She is also involved in tennis, softball as an outfielder, and track. Kaylynn is a Midwest Members Female Athlete of the Month for the Oilers. Buttry credits her success to her family, particularly her mother, Janet, who provides emotional support after challenging games, and her cousin, Lydia, who encourages

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WOOD RIVER - East Alton-Wood River junior Tamarion Marshall has been recognized for his outstanding achievements in basketball. Marshall, who has been immersed in the sport since childhood, credits his success to a combination of hard work, family support, and a passion for the game. Marshall is a Midwest Members Credit Union Male Athlete of the Month for the Oilers. Marshall’s journey in basketball began early, as he grew up in a family that valued the sport. “I’ve been playing this sport for as long as I can remember,” he said. “I like just the mentality when I get onto the court; it gives me something to go after.” His dedication extends beyond regular practice, as he consistently puts in extra time honing his skills. Under the guidance of Coach Eric DeWerff, Marshall has developed into a leader on and off the court. He acknowledges the importance of his coaches and mentors in his growth as a player. “I also want to thank all of my coaches.

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ALTON — The community is coming together to support the family of Dreya Mackenzie Colley, a 16-year-old student who died following a severe car accident on Dec. 23, 2024. Jeralyn Colley is organizing a fundraiser on behalf of Bryan Colley, to help cover funeral expenses after Dreya's passing. Dreya, an 11th-grade student at Alton High School, succumbed to her injuries at 4:39 p.m. on Jan. 2, 2025, at St. Louis University Hospital. Despite extensive medical efforts, Dreya was unable to recover after the tragic accident. In her final act of generosity, Dreya's family noted that she donated her organs, which they hope will help save others. A visitation for Dreya is scheduled for 9 a.m. until the funeral service at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Reverend Daniel Sternquist will officiate the service for Dreya, and burial will take place at Upper Alton Cemetery. The family is also accepting memorial contributions to Mid America Transplant in Dreya's

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EDWARDSVILLE - Republic Services announced that it will resume its trash collection services on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, following a one-day delay due to inclement weather. The company will begin with the collection routes scheduled for Monday and will extend operations through Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, to accommodate the backlog. Rhonda Breslin, the Municipal Sales Manager for Republic Services, indicated that some rural areas and subdivisions with hilly terrain after the winter storm may pose challenges for collection if conditions are unsafe. Residents in those affected areas will be notified through a call blast to ensure their safety and that of the drivers. Breslin encouraged residents to share this information on social media to help spread the word about the service updates. “Thank you for your patience,” she added in her communication.

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EAST ST. LOUIS - East St. Louis School District 189 has announced the opening of a community Warming Center at Mason/Clark Middle School that started at 7 a.m. Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, and continues through Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025. The East St. Louis School District said this initiative aims to provide shelter from the extreme cold conditions affecting the area. Located at 5510 State St. in East St. Louis, the Warming Center is designed to offer relief for those seeking protection from the harsh winter weather. However, officials emphasized that the center is not intended to serve as a day-care facility for children, the elderly, or individuals who cannot care for themselves. Sydney Stigge-Kaufman, the Executive Director of Communications and Strategic Partnerships for the district, stated, “You are welcome to seek shelter from excessive cold conditions at Mason/Clark Middle School.” In addition to the opening of the Warming Center, the district announced that there will

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EAST ST. LOUIS — Volunteers are invited to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young children by leading weekly story times in the East St. Louis School District 189 area. The initiative targets children under age five and aims to foster a love for reading through engaging storytelling. Story times, which last 30 minutes, are scheduled for the same day and time each week at various East St. Louis locations, including the Vivian Adams Early Childhood Center and Dr. Katie Harper Wright Elementary School. The program is supported by Ready Readers, which provides training and resources to volunteers. “Your storytelling can spark imaginations and inspire the next generation of readers,” a spokesperson for Ready Readers stated. The organization emphasizes that this volunteer opportunity is both flexible and rewarding, allowing individuals to contribute to the educational development of children in their community. Those interested in participating can find more

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CHICAGO - Today, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) announced it has been chosen by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to participate in the new Transforming Maternal Health ( TMaH ) Model, which seeks to improve maternal health outcomes by implementing a more whole-person approach to care. The federal program will provide $17 million in critical funding over 10 years to help Illinois Medicaid and other awarded state Medicaid agencies develop and pilot a more comprehensive and integrated approach to addressing physical health, mental health and social needs throughout the pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care continuum. “We are honored to be chosen to participate in this new, innovative model, which will allow us to focus directly on improving maternal and child health outcomes in two underserved areas of the state,” said Acting HFS Director Elizabeth M. Whitehorn. “This support will go a long way to promoting

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WOOD RIVER - Wood River City Council members are moving forward with plans for a downtown dog park after accepting a $73,000 bid for concrete work on the project. Councilmen unanimously accepted a bid from Stutz Excavating, Inc. to perform concrete work for the Downtown Dog Park. The proposal from Stutz Excavating calls for 2,246 square feet of concrete sidewalk, 570 feet of concrete curb, and more at a total cost of $73,321. This amount was the lowest of three total bids received. Councilman Bill Dettmers said while he wasn’t sure building the dog park was “the right thing to do” for the city, his opinion on the matter has been swayed by a dog-owning constituent who emailed him in support of the project. “It’s not because I’m against dogs or anything like that, I’m just not 100% sure this is the right thing for the city to be doing, but I’m going to support it anyway,” he said. Councilman David Ayres asked who would b

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