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CHICAGO — Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined bill sponsors, officials, and community advocates in Chicago’s Little Village to sign HB 1312. This pivotal legislation enshrines protections for immigrant families in Illinois in the wake of the Trump Administration’s lawless and aggressive immigration enforcement actions. “With my signature today, we are protecting people and institutions that belong here in Illinois. Dropping your kid off at day care, going to the doctor,

CHICAGO – The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is reminding customers that the state’s winter weather rule is in effect from December 1 - March 31. The winter weather rule limits utilities from disconnecting eligible customers who use electric or gas as their primary source of home heating. “Illinois winters are known for frigid temperatures and frequent snowfall. The winter weather rule protects customers who might otherwise struggle to stay warm during the coldest month

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has issued an updated standing order which adds Illinois public libraries to the list of locations that are permitted to keep a supply of opioid overdose reversal agents on hand, and to allow trained staff to administer them in the event of a suspected overdose on their premises. The revised standing order will make it easier for libraries to comply with new provisions of the Illinois Local Library Act which will take effect

December 10th has long stood as a day marked by profound global significance. Arguably the most impactful event commemorated on December 10th is the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize. Established by the will of Alfred Nobel, the Nobel Peace Prize has been presented annually on this date since 1901, honoring individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to world peace. This tradition not only celebrates remarkable achievements but also serves as a beacon of hope and

BUNKER HILL — Illinois State Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred Tuesday evening, Dec. 9, 2025, at the intersection of Illinois Route 159 and Mansholt Road. According to authorities, ISP Troop 8 responded to a two-vehicle collision at the location. One occupant was pronounced dead at the scene. The ISP stated that the roadway was closed for several hours and reopened at approximately 12:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025. The Bunker Hill Fire Department, Shipman Fire

ALTON — Lines fell Wednesday morning, Dec. 10, 2025, on College Avenue at Park Avenue in Alton, draping across a van and prompting the closure of all lanes while authorities await Ameren’s response. The incident occurred amid a Wind Advisory issued for Madison County until noon, with forecasted gusts reaching 40 to 50 mph. Such winds are strong enough to bring down tree limbs, topple garbage cans, and displace holiday decorations. A service line and pole that broke caused the

JERSEY COUNTY — Jersey County Sheriff Nick Manns reported that deputies responded to a serious two-car collision Wednesday morning at the intersection of U.S. 67 and Delhi Road. One female involved in the crash was transported by helicopter to a hospital in St. Louis, Manns said. Manns added that a male passenger was taken to Jersey Community Hospital for additional care. The cause of the collision remains under investigation, and no further details were immediately available, Manns said.

GODFREY - The North Alton-Godfrey Business Council recently hosted their Breakfast With Santa event, and NAGBC President Zeke Jabusch couldn’t be prouder of their work. On Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, community members came together for a hot breakfast and photos with Santa Claus in Godfrey. Jabusch noted his gratitude for the crowd and the people who have made the event happen for the past 21 years. “We’re so pleased to be able to do this,” he said. “This is

RIVERBEND - It’s time to get a jump on those New Year’s resolutions! If you’re feeling the reason for the season and want to help out your community in 2026, keep reading. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities in the Riverbend region that might be a great fit for you. Alton Main Street — Alton Alton Main Street organizes several events and programs in downtown Alton. They need volunteers to help at the Alton Farmers Market, Mississippi Earthtones Festival,

ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Mo. — Emergency crews responded Wednesday morning, Dec. 10, 2025, to a water rescue near West Alton after a boat overturned on the Mississippi River, authorities said. The incident occurred near the Lincoln Shields Recreation Area, north of the Clark Bridge. St. Charles County requested assistance from the Missouri State Highway Patrol following reports that two duck hunters were in the overturned boat. Officials confirmed that both individuals were safely out of the

When people talk about mental health, the conversation often turns toward children, teens, or women seeking support. While these are crucial discussions, one group continues to fall through the cracks-men. For generations, men were raised to hide pain, suppress emotions, and “tough it out.” Today, the result of that culture shows up in statistics that are difficult to ignore. Men are less likely to seek help for mental health challenges, yet more likely to die from suicide. They

Expect a breezy and cool day with a high near 42 and a low around 25. Winds will blow from the northwest at 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph, making it feel colder than the actual temperature. There's a chance of light snow flurries today, so keep your jacket handy. This morning will start mostly cloudy with light flurries possible. As you move into the afternoon, the wind picks up and temperatures remain cool, making it feel more like 30 degrees. The evening brings mostly cloudy skies with

GLEN CARBON – Glen Carbon trustees voted on Tuesday to sharply raise the fines for construction work completed without proper permits or inspections amid rising reports of non-compliant construction. The village’s current fine of $50 per “Failure to Obtain a Permit” violation will increase to a minimum of $500 per violation under the newly passed resolution. Each day a violation continues will be fined as a separate offense. According to Erika Heil, the village’s

EDWARDSVILLE - Madison County Deputy Ja'Markus Gary graduated from the Southwestern Illinois College Police Academy, Session 157, and will begin his field training with the Patrol Division, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office announced Monday, Dec. 8, 2025. Deputy Gary, a former McKendree University football player and 2022-23 Academic All-Great Lakes Valley Conference honoree, completed the academy program and is set to contribute to the department’s law enforcement efforts.

RIVERBEND - Do you love decorating for the holidays? Do you want to win $250 cash and more? RiverBender.com , Raging Rivers WaterPark , and Shivers Frozen Custard are thrilled to announce this year’s Holiday Lights Contest. Submit a photo of your holiday lights, inside or out, to be entered to win big this holiday season! One grand prize winner will receive $250 cash, plus Raging Rivers WaterPark 2026 Season Passes for a Family of 4, and Free Shivers Coffee and Custard for a Year (limitations

GODFREY - At the recent Breakfast With Santa event, Godfrey Mayor Mike McCormick reflected on a great year in Godfrey. On Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, community members gathered for the 21st annual Breakfast With Santa event, sponsored by the North Alton-Godfrey Business Council. McCormick, a former business owner, emphasized the importance of groups like NAGBC and their efforts to support the community through events like this. “Anybody that has small kids that did not come to Breakfast

GODFREY - As the Alton and Godfrey communities prepare to celebrate the holidays, one North Alton-Godfrey Business Council member is reflecting on the year. On Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, NAGBC hosted their annual Breakfast With Santa event to bring families together for a meal with Santa Claus. Gerard Fischer, a Village of Godfrey trustee and member of NAGBC, expressed his excitement to be a part of the event. “It’s great to see the community come together,” he said. “Wha

GODFREY - Magician John Johnson recently performed at the North Alton-Godfrey Business Council’s annual Breakfast With Santa event. On Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, NAGBC hosted the Breakfast With Santa event to spread holiday cheer and bring families together. Johnson served as the event’s main entertainer, and he noted his excitement to perform in front of the many families who were in attendance. “It’s a family event,” he explained. “I love just seeing the

EDWARDSVILLE – The holiday season is filled with celebrations. To help make sure those celebrations don’t end in tragedy, the Edwardsville Police Department is joining law enforcement agencies across Illinois in a major traffic safety effort. From Friday, December 12 through Monday, January 5, our officers will take part in the statewide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “Drive High. Get a DUI.” and “Click It or Ticket” campaigns. These supplemental

ST. LOUIS – The 2025 Take Flight Forum, hosted by Bi-State Development’s St. Louis Regional Freightway, brought together aviation leaders, educators, and students to explore the region’s dynamic aerospace ecosystem and the expanding opportunities for youth in aviation and STEM careers. The event, themed “STEM to Sky!,” featured a compelling panel discussion with Dr. Jennifer Kephart, Superintendent of the School District of Washington, Missouri, and Yolandea Wood,