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ALTON - Laila Blakeny of Alton High School and Megan Yarborough of Alton High School were honored as Students of the Month of May at a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Alton-Godfrey held at Gentelin’s on Broadway Restaurant. Laila Blakeny is the daughter of Kirk and Tanisha Blakeny. Laila is a senior at Alton High School. She wants to thank the Rotary Club for allowing her to be a Rotary student of the month. At a young age, her family taught her the importance of education. Since kindergarten, she has been on the high honor roll and was inducted into the National Honors Society. She plans on continuing this streak in college. In her free time she plays basketball. She’s been playing basketball for the past 12 years, starting at the age of 6. She has played for Alton High for the past 2 years with her prior 2 years at Lutheran North in St. Louis, MO. Finishing with an incredible and record-breaking season at 32-2! She says the experience playing for Alton was unbelievable.

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WEST ALTON - An area motorist avoided serious injury in a crash where his 2011 Chevrolet Equinox overturned Wednesday on Riverlands Way east of Wise Road. The initial call to first responders sounded serious, Rivers Pointe Fire Chief Richard Bender said. He said the call to them came at 7:49 p.m. on Wednesday. “It was a one-vehicle rollover,” he said. “Thankfully, the man escaped serious injury, but he was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation at Christian Northeast Hospital.” The Missouri State Highway Patrol report said the man ran off the left side of the roadway, struck a culvert, and overturned.

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CHICAGO – Today, Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Public Health ("IDPH") and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation ("IDFPR") announced a new process to expand access to self-administered hormonal contraceptives, making them more available to Illinois residents than ever before. IDPH Director, Dr. Sameer Vohra, issued a standing order that authorizes Illinois pharmacists to dispense hormonal contraception following training. “In Illinois, we respect a woman’s right to make reproductive health choices,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I’m pleased that as part of that mission, we are making safe, tested hormonal contraceptives more accessible than ever by allowing pharmacists to dispense this necessary medication, removing barriers to treatment for women across the state.” “By broadening access to hormonal contraceptives, our state continues its commitment to tearing down obstacles to vital medical

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FARMERSVILLE – The Illinois State Police (ISP) is releasing the final name of the seven people fatally injured in multiple crashes that occurred on May 1, 2023 at approximately 10:55 a.m. on both northbound and southbound Interstate 55 between mile markers 72 and 78, near Farmersville in Montgomery County. Otto Medina-Salazar, 58-year-old from Carthage, MO was fatally injured in the crash. A total of 72 vehicles are known to be involved in the crashes and 37 people were transported to area hospitals with injuries ranging from minor to critical. There were seven fatalities in the crashes, including the following names previously released. Shirley Harper, 88-year-old from Franklin, WI Joseph Bates, 73-year-old from Crystal Lake, IL Donna Bates, 71-year-old from Crystal Lake, IL Earl LeGrand, 64-year-old from Florissant, MO Michael Zinchuk, 55-year-old from Champaign, IL Amy Zinchuk, 54-year-old from Champaign, IL ISP recognizes the impact of this tragic event and offers

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EDWARDSVILLE - Madison County State’s Attorney Thomas A. Haine announced a 78-year prison sentence Thursday for a killer in what prosecutors described as an execution in broad daylight outside a tire shop. The sentence was handed to 33-year-old Fred W. Williams Jr., who fired multiple close-range shots at an acquaintance, Delas M. Carter, 30, of Alorton. The shooting happened outside a Granite City tire shop where Carter was employed. Carter had stepped outside the business when Williams opened fire on him in June 2021. “We’re glad that the judge saw this criminal for who he is: a ruthless killer who needs to remain safely behind bars for a long time,” Haine said. “We hope that this sentence brings some solace and healing to Mr. Carter’s family members, who have endured so much grief and have exhibited great stoicism throughout the court process.” After a week-long trial in March, a jury found Williams, of East St. Louis, guilty of first-degree

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ALTON - Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford has released the name of the victim in the shooting in the 1600 block of Rock Springs Drive in Alton on Wednesday night. Ford identified the victim as Tyrone M. Williams, 20, of Alton, and he later died as a result of his injuries at an area hospital. The Alton Police Department received a report of a shooting at 7:34 p.m. Wednesday and the police and fire departments both responded immediately. Ford said when officers arrived, they discovered one male subject who had been shot with a firearm. The victim was transported to a local hospital by the Alton Fire Department and later transferred to a St. Louis area hospital for further treatment where he died from the injuries. Chief Ford said the investigation is being conducted by members of the Alton Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division in conjunction with the Madison County Coroner’s Office and Illinois State Police. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information i

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CHICAGO – A life-changing amount of cash is up for grabs tonight as the Lotto jackpot has soared to a staggering $15.2 million. If a player wins tonight’s jackpot, it would be the largest Lotto prize of the year and the fourth largest in nearly three years. In June 2020, a lucky Illinois Lottery player scooped up $16.5 million playing Lotto. In April, two Lotto players won $1 million each, but the jackpot has kept growing. In total this year, over 2.9 million winning Lotto tickets have been sold, netting players nearly $12.4 million in prizes. Lotto is an Illinois-only game that is played three times a week on Monday, Thursday and Saturday, and the current jackpot is at $15.2 million for tonight’s drawing, Thursday, May 11.

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SRPINGFIELD — Following the House passage of House Bill 579, Governor JB Pritzker released the following statement: Today, with the House passage of House Bill 579, we’re one step closer to eliminating unnecessary barriers for residents who are eligible to receive health insurance. Through the adoption of a state-based insurance marketplace, we can expand healthcare access by effectively identifying traditionally underinsured communities, conducting effective outreach to them, and assisting in the enrollment process. As a result, more Illinoisans than ever before will be able to utilize a health insurance plan that works for them and their family. I’m thankful to Majority Leader Robyn Gabel for her leadership on this issue and I look forward to following the bill’s progress in the Senate.

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GRANITE CITY – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced pavement repairs on Illinois 3 from New Poag Road to the McKinley Bridge will require intermittent lane closures, weather permitting, starting at 5:30 a.m. on Monday, May 15. One lane in each direction will remain open at all times. All southbound lanes will be open weekdays from 6-9 a.m. and all northbound lanes will be open weekdays from 3-6 p.m. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone. The project is expected to be complete by mid-June. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

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BRUSSELS - On May 4, 2023, a Deputy Sheriff with the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a white 2010 Dodge Caravan at Illinois River Road near the American Legion in Brussels, Calhoun County, Illinois. Subsequent to an investigation, the driver, Lucas D. Jenkins, age 27, of Golden Eagle, Illinois was arrested for the following offenses: Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine. Jenkins was arrested without incident and transported to the Jersey County Jail. All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty.

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GODFREY - The Godfrey Road renovation project by the Illinois Department of Transportation is a high-profile revitalization project, with the traffic close to Lewis and Clark Community College within the Village of Godfrey. Travelers heading for other destinations such as Jerseyville and Brighton and beyond also take the road to and from their work. Godfrey Mayor Mike McCormick said he knows a lot of people are trying to avoid that area, but he said if there are good weather conditions, IDOT may have the project in solid shape by the time school resumes. "I haven't had a lot of phone calls complaining about it," he said. "I thought we would, but I know when IDOT is done everyone is going to be very happy. It is a very busy area still, but it makes me smile that when finished it will be good for the Village of Godfrey." Mayor McCormick stressed it will be first-class when finished with sidewalks, curbs, and gutters, along with the actual resurfacing. "In the end, it will pay off,"

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WOOD RIVER - Bill Dettmers and Gary Ayres were sworn in as new Wood River City Council Members at the most recent meeting, and both said they are honored to serve on the council. Dettmers said the following: "I am humbled and appreciate the support I have received from the community. I will dedicate myself to serving the City of Wood River to the best of my ability." Dettmers said he and Ayres are like-minded in their thinking and are both analytical people and businessmen and look forward to the challenges ahead. Ayres said he is also honored to be serving as a new Wood River City Council member. He previously served as mayor of Wood River from 2001-2005. Ayres added that one of his goals is to see how to pay for the rec center that is in development. "I think that is our goal: to keep where taxpayers don't have an increase in taxes and getting a portion of the city out of a flood plain," he said. "Those are two big issues during campaign voters seemed to comment most. I am looking

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ALTON - Alton Police and Fire responded to a report of a shooting outside of the 1600 block of Rock Springs Drive on Wednesday night. Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford said the incident was reported to the police department at 7:34 p.m. "Officers arrived and located one male subject who had been shot with a firearm," Chief Ford said. "The victim was transported to a local hospital by the Alton Fire Department and later transferred to a St. Louis area hospital for further treatment. "The investigation is being conducted by members of the Alton Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division. The investigation is ongoing at this time." Anyone with information is asked to contact the Alton Police Department at 618-463-3505.

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GODFREY - It was a race to raise funds, and generous friends of Beverly Farm made sure the results were a photo finish. #RacingForBeverlyFarm is a 24-hour giving event where staff and donors come together to support the nonprofit’s work of providing loving, caring homes for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. This year’s total of $709,760 raised surpassed the original goal of $650,000 for the fundraiser. “We are overwhelmed by the generosity demonstrated during #RacingForBeverlyFarm,” said Beverly Farm CEO Crystal Officer. “Our mission is to provide emotional security, dignified quality of life, and opportunities for growth to our residents. These funds enable our team to continue pushing for excellence in everything we do.” There were 587 total donors who participated in #RacingForBeverlyFarm. The theme of #RacingforBeverlyFarm was inspired by the Equestrian Center at Beverly Farm’s equine therapy horses that trot throug

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SPRINGFIELD – Throughout the month of May, the Illinois State Police (ISP) will celebrate National Law Enforcement Appreciation Month, a time when we come together to remember those who have lost their lives in the line of duty, honor those who have served and continue to serve, offer support to fellow officers and their loved ones, and for citizens to show their appreciation to the men and women who keep our communities safe while dealing with the inherent dangers of police work. “Law enforcement officers carry a heavy burden and put their lives on the line every day,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “During the month of May we honor these men and women who are sworn to protect us, and remember those we’ve lost in the line of duty. Their work is dangerous, demanding, and sometimes thankless. It takes a special, dedicated person to do the job. We should honor and show our appreciation for these brave souls this month and every month.”

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ALTON - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Louis District will announce the winners of an island naming contest on Saturday, May 13 starting at noon at the National Great Rivers Museum in Alton. Students from both Jerseyville and Alton School Districts submitted name suggestions for the new islands and will be presented with certificates at the ceremony. The three newly created islands are part of the Upper Mississippi River Restoration Program’s Piasa and Eagles Nest Island Habitat Rehabilitation and Enhancement Project. The winning students and their winning names will be announced at the ceremony and certificates will be presented by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers staff. The ceremony will take place during the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Rivers Project Office’s Recreation, Education, and Conservation Festival, also known as REC Fest. The National Great Rivers Museum is located at 2 Locks and Dam Way in Alton. The St. Louis District is strategically

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ST. LOUIS - For the sixth consecutive year, Schnuck Markets, Inc. is proud to support the Folds of Honor Foundation through a “Round Up at the Register” campaign taking place at all 115 Schnucks and Eatwell Markets throughout the Midwest. Folds of Honor is a nonprofit organization that honors the sacrifices of fallen and disabled military veterans and, new this year, first responders by providing educational scholarships to their spouses and children. Last year’s efforts raised $850,000 which funded 170 scholarships. Starting today and continuing through Tuesday, May 30, Schnucks customers will be able to contribute to Folds of Honor at checkout simply by rounding up their purchases to the nearest dollar. Those customers who use self-checkouts and wish to give may choose a $1, $3 or $5 “Scan and Give” option. Schnucks Rewards members also have the opportunity to donate their Rewards points to Folds of Honor as part of the Donate Your Rewards program.

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SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker was joined today by Lieutenant Governor Julianna Stratton, Illinois State Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza, elected officials, and first responders to sign the Act-of-Duty Bill into law. HB 3162 retroactively provides Chicago police officers and firefighters disability benefits for the time they were unable to serve due to contracting COVID-19 between March 9, 2020, and June 30, 2021. “Since the darkest days of the pandemic, our first responders — police officers, firefighters, and EMS workers alike — have been on the ground, putting their own health and safety at risk to protect others,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “When our first responders are disabled on the job, they deserve comprehensive benefits. HB 3162, a bipartisan Act-of-Duty Bill, ensures they get the benefits they are entitled to.” “Our first responders serve and protect, heal and care, comfort and support, Illinois residents in their time

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JERSEYVILLE - It will be a busy summer at the Jerseyville Public Library with their Free Comic Book Festival coming up and several more events scheduled for this summer. The third annual Free Comic Book Festival will be held this Saturday, May 13 from noon to 3 p.m., and will feature a Smash Bros tournament, Jedi Lightsaber Training sessions, tons of door prizes, and much more. At the Free Comic Book Festival, the Smash Bros Tournament with prizes will begin at 2:30 p.m. Registration is required by May 11 for the tournament, but no registration is required for the Festival itself. The Festival will also feature a costume parade, crafts by the Jersey County Arts Council, a Wonder Woman cosplayer for photo opportunities, and professional face painting by Glitter Faces. The event is free and open to all ages, with or without a library card. Several other events are planned for the rest of this summer, including a live Zoom event on Wednesday, May 17 at 7 p.m. Olympic Gold Medalist

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SPRINGFIELD - Governor JB Pritzker and State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera joined firefighters today to honor and remember fallen firefighters and recognize those who went above and beyond their duties at the 30th Annual Fallen Firefighter Memorial and Medal of Honor Ceremony. “From the July 4th Highland Park massacre to intractable lithium-ion battery fires to last month’s devastating tornadoes, our firefighters respond to our most daunting emergencies with resolve and selflessness—mitigating disaster, reuniting families, and saving countless lives, while putting themselves in harm’s way,” said Governor JB Pritzker . “Congratulations to our Firefighter Excellence Award, Firefighter Excellence ‘Unit Citation’ Award, State Fire Marshal Life Safety Award, Medal of Honor, and Medal of Valor awardees. On behalf of the State of Illinois, thank you for your service—we couldn’t be more grateful.” “Firefighters serve

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