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EDWARDSVILLE - Registered voters are now eligible to request a Vote by Mail Ballot. August 10 was the first day the County Clerk’s Office could accept a request. Ballots will be mailed to those who request a Vote by Mail Ballot beginning on September 29. County Clerk, Debbie Ming-Mendoza, said in the first week, the County Clerk’s Office has received over 150 requests for Vote by Mail Ballots. The clerk’s office has also received 1,300-plus permanent Vote by Mail requests following the June 28 Primary Election. "The last day a Vote by Mail Ballot can be requested is November 3," Mendoza said. Vote by Mail became a popular way to cast your ballot during the COVID Pandemic. Mendoza said, “The County Clerk’s Office works to provide every opportunity for Madison County residents to carry out their constitutional right to vote. I want registered voters to be confident that no matter how you cast your ballot it is counted with the utmost integrity. Voters

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JERSEYVILLE - Liberty Village of Jerseyville hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony from 1-3 p.m. on Thursday afternoon to celebrate the recent addition of their newest memory care program, “Memory Lane - Fitness for the Mind.” The event saw a large turnout from the public and featured guest speakers including State Senator Steve McClure and Liberty Village staff members, in addition to demonstrations of new memory games in the village’s courtyard and tours of the newly-redone interior. State Senator Steve McClure, who represents the 50th Senate District of Illinois, introduced himself to the crowd as “the youngest-looking member of the State Senate, but I’m not the youngest,” and noted the lack of similar memory programs in the region. “This is a beautiful campus, and I think one of the issues that we have in this region - particularly lately - is there are not enough facilities that offer treatment options that help people with memory issues,”

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EDWARDSVILLE - Each Year on the day of the Edwardsville D.A.R.E. Car Show, Officer Jarrod Sprinkle is likely the busiest person at the event. Sprinkle and the other volunteers and officers spend several hours planning the event, which always has a little something for everyone. This year, Jarrod even had his son, Blake , as a volunteer which had special meaning for him. Sprinkle loves his role in the community as the D.A.R.E. officer for Edwardsville School and has a tremendous impact on the children each year. He said the program goal is to help more than 2,000 kids "make better choices in their lives, "not just stay off drugs." Officer Sprinkle thanked the devoted volunteers and other officers who assisted with the event and the business sponsors.

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ALTON - The final JK-BEC Movie Night at James Killion Park will conclude with “Spiderman No Way Home” on Saturday night (August 27) at James Killion Park at Salu. This week’s sponsor is AARP Illinois. The movie starts at dusk. There will be free snow cones, hot dogs, and popcorn for kids. Those who attend are asked to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Jeff Scott, a spokesperson for AARP, said this sponsorship is just another way AARP tries to use part of a program called “Livable Communities” and how to make a community better. “Events such as the Movies In The Park in Alton jump out as a chance for kids, grandparents, mothers, and fathers to get out to have a good evening,” Scott said. “It is a chance for families to have a good evening and we cherish those kinds of opportunities.” Scott said: “Spiderman No Way Home” is a wonderful movie and he is thankful to be able to show it at James Killion Park. “This is

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ALTON - A’myiah Pittman was crowned Miss Jewel of Distinction at the Alton Section National Council of Negro Women Inc. Debutante Ball. The event was held this past Saturday, July 23, 2022. Anya Robinson was chosen as First Runner-Up and Kyla Gerhardt was chosen Second-Runner-Up. In addition to being crowned Miss Jewel of Distinction, Pittman won the Talent Contest as well as awards for Leadership and Community Service. Kaliyah Newby received the Miss Congeniality award. E'Niya Fields was also a Debutante participant. Bonnie Fox, a member of the Alton Section National Council of Negro Women Inc. Debutante Ball committee and a spokesperson, said: “The Debutante Ball is the flagship event for the Alton Section of NCNW. This is a biennial event; the first Ball was held in the 1980s and was chaired by the late Alice Ann Martin. In keeping with the Mission in part "to harness the power of Black and other minority women to ensure access to and full participation in the social-economic-political

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY - St. Louis County Police Crimes Against Persons detectives are investigating a homicide in the 1200 block of Congress Avenue which resulted in the death of an adult male. At 2:38 p.m. on August 24, 2022, St. Louis County Police officers from the North County Precinct responded to a call for service for a shooting in the 1200 block of Congress Avenue. Responding officers located an adult male inside a residence suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. A suspect was taken into custody. St. Louis County Police Department’s Crimes Against Persons detectives are leading the investigation. The investigation is very active at this time. Additional information will be disseminated as it becomes available. Please contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210 to speak with investigators if you have any information regarding this incident. To remain anonymous or potentially receive a reward, please contact

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D. F. Stauffer Biscuit Co., Inc. is voluntarily recalling 44-ounce Market Pantry White Fudge Animal Cookies because they may contain metal. The product comes in a clear plastic jug formed to a bear shape. The products were distributed to Target stores nationwide. No other lots or products are affected. The recall affects only the following Best By Date, Lot Numbers, and time stamps, printed on the back side of the bear jug on the product label, below the nutritional panel. Best By Date Jug Lot Numbers Case Lot Number Time Stamp UPC code 21FEB2023 Y052722 Y052722 From 15:00 to 23:00 085239817698 The recall was initiated when metal (wire) was found inside a portion of the cookies. Foodborne foreign objects that are hard, sharp, and large are more likely to cause serious injury or dental injury. Foodborne foreign objects that are flexible, not sharp, and smaller in length are more likely to cause minor injuries such as transient choking or small lacerations

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ALTON - The 39th Annual Glassworkers Reunion for all former Owens-Illinois employees is set for September 17, 2022. There will be a cash bar from 5 to 6 p.m. and then dinner will be served at VFW Post 1308, Alton. From 1929-1983 the Owens-Illinois Glass Company was the world’s largest glass-producing factory located in Alton. As a major employer to Alton residents, it boosted the economy and made Alton a highly successful industrial town in the 20th century. Tickets this year will be $20 and payment has to be completed with a reservation form by Sept. 3, 2022. Bob Myers, who is in charge of publicity for the event, said there will be no walk-ins for this year’s event. He said the annual reunion is always “a bright point” for all of us both in town and out of town to see each other from the old Glassworks.” For those who want to make a reservation, and find they cannot attend or receive a form to attend, contact Bob at (618) 917-4919. Cancellations must

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Police D.A.R.E. Car Show is always a big fundraiser for the Edwardsville School District Program and this year's edition this past weekend had fantastic weather and a large turnout of cars and attendees. Edwardsville Police D.A.R.E. Jarrod Sprinkle said there were a ton of cars and the event had "a little something for everyone." The entries were packed in the Edwardsville High School parking lot. Those in attendance seemed to enjoy their walk back through the prized vehicles of the past. "We had silent auctions, a raffle, a performance by the dance team and Air Evac team landed and all kinds of events. It was a great event it raised several thousand dollars to support our D.A.R.E. programs, which are so important for our community. This is always our main fundraiser for D.A.R.E." Sprinkle said a goal is to always build the show into something better this year and he felt the 2022 edition on the 30th anniversary was definitely something special.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) released the following statement after President Biden announced his plan to cancel $10,000 in federal student loans per borrower: “I appreciate that many young people and their families are struggling with the burden of student loan debt. But there are many hardworking Americans who attended a trade school, work in the service industry, run a small business, or stayed home to raise a family who are struggling too. It is unfair to make them shoulder the cost for those who decided to attend college. We must continue working to find solutions that make college more affordable and accessible, but President Biden’s plan is nothing more than a taxpayer giveaway to score political points.”

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ALTON - It's that time of year again. With August winding down, it means that Halloween is right around the corner. With a little more than two months to go until the spooky holiday, Spirit Halloween stores are beginning to reopen. Spirit Halloween just put up a small banner on the outside window of its store in Alton saying that it will open soon and that they are hiring. The store is inside the old Shop ‘n Save building located at 1721 Homer M. Adams Parkway. According to its website, the franchise has over 1,400 stores across the United States and claims to be the largest Halloween retailer in North America. "At a store near you, you’ll find only the best Halloween costumes, Halloween decorations, and our exclusive animatronics that’ll have you ready for every spooky celebration." While it's not quite certain the exact date the store will open, the website just says early September. At this time the hours of the store have not been released either. To apply fo

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CHICAGO - Attorney General Kwame Raoul today issued the following statement regarding the announcement from President Joe Biden’s administration that it plans to cancel $10,000 in debt for borrowers who earn less than $125,000 per year and $20,000 in debt for Pell grant recipients. “Higher education should be within reach for all Illinoisans without the fear that they will be saddled with lifelong debt. The administration’s announcement today is a clear acknowledgment of the burden student loan debt imposes, and response to repayment and forgiveness programs that have been historically and systemically flawed. “While long-term reforms to the student loan system in this country are desperately needed, I commend the Biden administration for offering some immediate relief to millions of student loan borrowers.” Attorney General Raoul has long advocated for protections for student loan borrowers. In May, Raoul called upon President Biden to cancel federal

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MADISON - The SpeedTour Grand Prix Festival, featuring the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli and Sportscar Vintage Racing Association, will join World Wide Technology Raceway’s stellar calendar of motorsports events in 2023. Located just five minutes from downtown St. Louis in Madison, Illinois, WWTR is the only track in the world hosting NASCAR Cup Series, NTT INDYCAR SERIES, and NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series events. The inaugural SpeedTour Grand Prix Festival is scheduled for WWTR’s 2.0-mile road course on September 22-24, 2023. The Trans Am Series is America’s road racing series and dates back to 1966. Throughout the years, some of the greatest names in motorsports have participated in the Trans Am Series, including Tommy Kendall, Mark Donohue, Peter Gregg, Bob Tullius, and Wally Dallenbach Jr. Recent standouts include NASCAR drivers Kaz Grala, Paul Menard, and Natalie Decker, as well as Indy Lights star Ernie Francis Jr. Trans Am race weekends consist

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Watershed Nature Center presents Wine and Whiskey for the Watershed on Friday, September 30 th at the Ink House from 6:30-9:30 p.m. This wine, whiskey, and food experience will feature some of the area’s most critically acclaimed restaurants and the world’s finest vintages and most sought-after spirits. Proceeds from the event will benefit outdoor recreation, education, and environmental stewardship for the Watershed Nature Center. “We are thrilled to host this event in person again and cannot wait to celebrate the Watershed Nature Center with some of the region’s best wines, whiskeys, and delicious food!” said Jennifer Warren, President of the Nature Preserve Foundation Board of Directors. The Nature Preserve Foundation is the non-profit steward of the Watershed Nature Center and supports all of Edwardsville’s green and blue spaces. General admission tickets are $85 and include tastings for more than 40 wines, 15 spirits, and

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GLEN CARBON - Father McGivney Catholic High School was not created overnight. A group of dedicated parents, grandparents, pastors, and other faithful volunteers began working on the “dream” of a school in 2005. In the fall of 2012 Father McGivney Catholic High School opened its doors to a group of 19 pioneer students. The McGivney students, families, supporters, staff, and parents will celebrate the anniversary with Mass at the school followed by a social gathering, at 1 p.m. Sunday, August 28. In 2022, and Father Mcgivney Catholic High School is thriving - breaking records in athletics, admissions waiting lists, 300+ students, huge academic successes, strong faith formation, and now the school prepares for another first--a momentous and exciting event, the 10-year anniversary of Father McGivney Catholic High School. The 10-year anniversary committee led by Suzanne Halbrook, McGivney Advancement Director, is working hard to organize, plan, and share a celebration with

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY - The St. Louis County Prosecuting Office has issued warrants on two suspects for Endangering the Welfare of a Child in the First Degree. On Friday, August 12, 2022, the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office issued warrants on suspects Destini McConnell, 21, of the 10700 block of Spring Garden Drive in St. Louis, and Jerome Jones, 22, of the 1000 block of Jennings Station Road in St. Louis, for the charge. Jones was arrested on Wednesday, August 24, 2022. Mugshots of McConnell and Jones are attached. Each are 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 McConnell and Jones reads: On or about August 11, 2022, Defendant failed to adequately supervise an 11-month-old child. As a result, the victim suffered from a drug overdose as a result of ingesting Fentanyl in the Defendant’s possession

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ALTON - Enjoy the sounds of smooth jazz and the taste of great wine as the successful Alton Jazz & Wine Festival returns to Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater on Saturday, September 3, 2022 with gates opening at 6pm. The Alton Jazz Confluence, featuring up and coming Alton/Godfrey student musicians, will again kick off this year’s festival. Following this exciting group of future jazz stars will be The Kendrick Smith Trio. The headliners for this year’s Alton Jazz & Wine Festival will be Mardra and Reggie Thomas. “The Alton Amphitheater Commission is excited to again bring great jazz to Liberty Bank Amphitheater with this popular and growing event,” said Dan Herkert, Amphitheater Commission Chair. “We’re particularly proud to again feature some of our local student musicians at the beginning of the festival.” “We are also thrilled to bring back the intimate jazz club setting where tables will be on the stage surrounding the artists as

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EDWARDSVILLE – Two recent Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) graduates Tara Habibi, of Springfield, and Priya Sapra Kullar, of India, have made history as the first to receive a Specialty Certificate in Endodontics from the SIU SDM. The program, introduced in 2020, offers students an advanced educational curriculum and a clinical residency regimen focused on endodontics and is accredited by the Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA) of the American Dental Association. “By starting the advanced education program for endodontics at the SDM, we now have the ability to manage all complex cases and provide a resource for the surrounding area to manage cases for those who have limited means,” said Marvin Leigh Speer, DDS, director of the endodontics program. “Tara and Priya were exceptional students in their coursework. It has been a true pleasure to work with such outstanding students.” “The SIU SDM feels like home,”

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BELLEVILLE - The Belleville Area Humane Society announced today it has hired an Edwardsville woman as its first-ever veterinarian - Dr. Jennifer Marquardt. For decades, the Edwardsville woman has been an advocate for animal welfare and veterinary. Dr. Marquardt grew up in Edwardsville knowing from a young age that she wanted to be a veterinarian. She achieved her goal when she graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. She worked in private practice for 15 years in Chicago and St. Louis before starting her adventures in shelter medicine. Even with a national veterinary shortage trend, Belleville Area Humane Society was able to obtain Dr. Marquardt's services. Having a full-time veterinarian will transform operations at BAHS and they look forward to all that they will accomplish with this outstanding addition to the BAHS team. Executive Director, Kim Vrooman said: “We are over the moon to have the opportunity to serve beside such an outstanding

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EDWARDSVILLE - This is another in a series of articles with photos and descriptions of entries in the Edwardsville Arts Fair at City Park on September 23-25. Today, the work of Collinsville, St. Louis, and Chicago artists are featured. Artist Name: John Locus Location: Collinsville Artist Statement: "Since I don't travel far and wide, I try to capture the beauty in everyday scenes and objects that most people drive by without even noticing. Most of my images have been boiled down to their simplest forms, sometimes only revealing small parts of the objects or scenes." Artist Name: Jennifer Boston Location: Chicago Artist Statement : "I love using natural stones for my jewelry. The stones have spiritual and therapeutic properties and I enjoy helping my customers pick the right stone and the look they want." Artist Name: Lauren Nall Location: St. Louis, MO. Artist Statement: "Sterling silver art jewelry with surface embellishments, folds, and patterns

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