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ALTON - The Cookie Factory is settling into their new location, with plans to install a drive-thru window later this year. Located at 192 Suite B Alton Square Mall Drive in Alton, the local business moved out of their Alton Square Mall location to a building across the street in February 2025. Owner Sarah Kinder is pleased with The Cookie Factory’s growth and looks forward to adding more menu items and drive-thru options in the future. “We were truly ready to go on day one, and there has not been one issue since. It’s been great,” Kinder said. “I just knew I had to grow. I wanted to keep The Cookie Factory local and keep our community growing, so moving out of the mall had to be done.” Kinder purchased the business four years ago and immediately began looking for a new location. She shared that it was difficult to “sit down and enjoy yourself” at the mall location, but this new spot has big windows and plenty of seating for

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MADISON COUNTY – The Madison County Sheriff’s Office today announced it is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police and more than 200 local law enforcement agencies to step up traffic safety efforts across the state to reduce speeding. Throughout the month of July, motorists can expect increased patrols looking for speeding, as well as other traffic violations. "Over the past few years, we have seen an increase in careless and risky driving. No matter how safe of a driver you think you may be, speeding is dangerous," said Captain T.J. Hernandez. "Speed limits aren’t a suggestion – they are the law." Speeding creates unnecessary risks for all motorists, reducing the driver’s ability to steer safely around other vehicles, hazardous objects or unexpected curves. During the speed limit enforcement campaign, officers will intensify enforcement of posted speed limits. The goal is to save lives. Drivers can expect

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS — A 48-year-old man was struck and killed by a vehicle late Monday night in Fairview Heights, according to police. Officers with the Fairview Heights Police Department responded at approximately 11:32 p.m. July 7, 2025, to the area of Frank Scott Parkway and Arbor Meadows after receiving a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle. Upon arrival, officers found the man lying unresponsive in the roadway. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Michael B. Touchette of Belleville was fatally struck by a vehicle, the St. Clair County Coroner's Office said. The Metro East Crash Assistance Team was called to assist with the investigation. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. Preliminary findings indicate the pedestrian was in the lane of traffic at the time of the collision. There is no indication the driver was impaired or violated any traffic laws. Earlier that evening, the pedestrian had multiple interactions with law enforcement.

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BELLEVILLE — The Board of Fire and Police Commission and the City Council have announced recent promotions within the Belleville Police Department. Lieutenant Robert Thomason has been promoted to Captain, Master Sergeant Tim Crimm to Lieutenant, and Detective Angelque Shields to Sergeant. The promotions recognize the officers' achievements and service to the community. Officials encourage residents to join in congratulating the officers on their new roles within the department.

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ALTON – The Alton School Board has approved the appointment of three district administrators to new leadership roles for the 2025-2026 school year. Rene Hart will assume the role of Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, a natural progression following her five years of service as the district’s Director of Curriculum. With 17 years in public education and 10 years in educational administration, Hart brings extensive leadership experience with a steadfast commitment to student achievement and the development of educators across the district. Hart began her career in the Alton School District in 2008 as a Special Education teacher at Lovejoy Elementary. Over the past decade, she has served in multiple leadership roles including Assistant Principal at East Elementary and Supervisor of Special Education (K-6). She was promoted in 2020 to Director of Curriculum and Instruction. In each role, Hart has led school improvement initiatives, supported professional

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COLLINSVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that a full closure of Interstate 55/70 southbound/westbound between Illinois 159 and Illinois 157 in Madison County will start, weather permitting, at 9 p.m. Friday, July 11, 2025, for bridge repairs. The closure is expected to remain in place for 17 days. During that time, motorists should follow the marked detour as follows: Motorists heading southbound/westbound on I-55/70 should take I-270 westbound to I-255 southbound to reconnect with I-55/70 southbound/westbound. Drivers between Illinois 159 and I-270/I-70 westbound who need to travel southbound/westbound on I-55/70 should travel north to access the detour and follow it back to I-55/70. Access to Illinois 162 and U.S. 40 will remain open. All lanes are scheduled to reopen by 5 a.m. Monday, July 28. Motorists should allow extra travel time for trips, especially during the first few days of the closure, and pay attention to additional signage

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a coalition of 18 attorneys general, today submitted an amicus brief in support of plaintiffs in Vasquez Perdomo et al. v Noem et al., seeking a temporary restraining order to enjoin the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) from engaging in unconstitutional and unlawful detentions of Los Angeles residents during immigration sweeps. The lawsuit comes amid the Trump administration conducting aggressive, militaristic immigration raids in Los Angeles that have terrified immigrant and non-immigrant residents alike, chilled community members’ participation in civic society and impeded law enforcement and public safety. “The Trump administration’s heavy-handed immigration enforcement tactics do nothing but instill fear and distrust in immigrant communities,” Raoul said. “I will continue to stand with my fellow attorneys general to fight against

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CHICAGO - Following the signing of Trump and Republicans’ ‘Big Beautiful Bill,’ Illinois is raising awareness about the devastating impacts on our working families. This includes draconian cuts and alterations to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which threatens food benefits for an estimated 360,000 Illinoisans, jeopardizes jobs, grocery stores, and harms local economies. "SNAP has been a crucial federal resource for families trying to put food on the table for more than 60 years, but Trump and Republicans would rather children go hungry so their friends can receive tax cuts,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Here in Illinois, we have been working to combat food insecurity for years, and while no state can backfill these costs, the State of Illinois will continue to fight against these harmful impacts and stand up for working families.” SNAP has been a permanent, 100% federally-funded food benefit for more than 60 years. The bill

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SPRINGFIELD – July is Extreme Heat Safety Month, and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) is asking everyone to understand the danger to you, your family, and your pets. “The best preparedness is individual preparedness,” explained IEMA-OHS Acting Director Theodore (Ted) Berger. “If you and your family are ready for extreme heat, you can prevent inconvenience, frustration, and even illness. The recent week-long heat wave was a clear reminder in the Midwest that heat affects us too.” Extreme heat is defined as high heat and humidity temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. Older adults, children, and people with certain illnesses and chronic conditions are at greater risk from extreme heat. Take these steps to prepare for extreme heat and prevent heat-related illnesses: Hydrate with water, not caffeinated or alcoholic beverages Wear light-colored, lightweight, and loose-fitting clothing

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SPRINGFIELD – With peak roadside mowing season underway, the Illinois Department of Transportation is reminding the public to slow down, proceed with caution and pay extra attention when encountering equipment and personnel. In keeping with the recent practice of timing operations to preserve and promote pollinator habitat, the heaviest mowing period will continue until Aug. 15. “By strategically scheduling when and where mowing takes place, IDOT is doing its part to help the environment and Illinois businesses,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “We need your assistance as well. Please be alert for mowing crews who work hard up and down the state, slowing down and giving them plenty of extra distance.” During the summer, IDOT conducts two primary types of mowing. Safety mowing occurs directly adjacent to the road as needed. Maintenance mowing, which lasts for approximately six weeks and starts around July 1, includes areas next t

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EDWARDSVILLE – Job interviews, employment opportunities, a plethora of services, free clothing, door prizes and more will be available to former service personnel at the St. Louis Metro Veterans Resource and Job Fair from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14 at the John F. Kennedy Community Center, 315 Howdershell Road in Florissant, Mo. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) is co-hosting the fair with the City of Florissant and The Kaufman Fund. “The Resource and Job Fair allows veterans to highlight the amazing skills and talents they have from serving their country,” said VUB Outreach Coordinator Bill Schnarr, a U.S. Army veteran. “The partnership between SIUE Veterans Upward Bound, The Kaufman Fund, and the City of Florissant is an amazing opportunity that allows veterans to seek resources and careers that will help improve their lives outside of the military. Veterans have so much to offer and can still serve

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Did you know that spending just 30 minutes outdoors can significantly boost your mood and cognitive function? Yet, many of us overlook the simple joy of a well-planned picnic, often confined to familiar parks or backyards. What if your local area holds untapped picnic spots that combine serene landscapes, practical amenities, and a touch of adventure? This article explores some of the best picnic destinations nearby, offering you fresh ideas to elevate your next outdoor meal. Urban Oasis: Parks That Blend Nature with Convenience In many cities, sprawling parks serve as green lungs amidst the urban hustle. These spaces are ideal for picnics because they balance natural beauty with accessibility. Practical tip: Arrive early on weekends to secure a prime spot, especially near water features or under large trees. Bring insect repellent and a portable blanket to expand your seating options if tables are occupied. Natural Retreats: Forests and Nature Reserves for Immersive Experiences

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July 8 has been a day marked by transformative events that have shaped the course of history across the globe. Arguably the most influential event associated with July 8 is the launch of the first message over the ARPANET in 1969. This event is often hailed as the birth of the Internet, an innovation that has revolutionized the way we communicate, access information, and conduct business. On this day, scientists at UCLA sent the first message to a computer at the Stanford Research Institute, marking the beginning of what would become a global network connecting billions of people. The initial message was intended to be the word ‘LOGIN,’ but the system crashed after transmitting the first two letters, 'L' and 'O.' Yet, this humble beginning paved the way for the digital age, fundamentally altering society in unprecedented ways. Moving further back in history, July 8, 1497, saw Vasco da Gama set sail from Lisbon, Portugal, on his first voyage to India. This expedition was

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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Sarah Jean Snyder marks her first publishing foray with the release of “He Said Saga: The Daughter's Story” (published by WestBow Press). This book shares the author's journey with multiple sclerosis (MS), intertwined with her father's experiences with the same disease, highlighting the power of faith in times of adversity. Following the legacy of her father’s original memoir, “Saga: One Man’s Battle with MS. The Beginning,” written over 30 years ago, Snyder reflects on her father’s experiences and her own journey with the disease. Here, she shares her own story, revealing how she learned to cope with her father's decline and eventual dependence on others. As she navigated the complexities of growing up with a father suffering from a debilitating illness, Snyder faced her own diagnosis years later. She tells how, through her father’s circumstances, she learned how to function through sadness, how to trust even

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ALTON — The Alton Fire Department responded to a structure fire Monday evening, July 7, 2025, on the 1100 block of East Sixth Street, arriving just before 6 p.m. to find heavy flames and smoke coming from the second story of the home. Firefighters quickly deployed their deck gun and hose lines, managing to extinguish most of the fire promptly. According to Alton Fire Chief Jesse Jemison, the fire appears to have been set deliberately and is believed to be connected to a domestic incident and an eviction. The Illinois State Fire Marshal was called to assist with the investigation. No injuries were reported at the scene. The Alton Police Department stated that additional information will be released on Tuesday.

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ALTON – Ward 4 Alderwoman Rosie Brown is asking community members to offer their support following the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old from Alton who died on July 4, 2025. Brown called on members of the Alton community to pray for the victim’s family at Monday’s Committee of the Whole meeting. “Keep the Reed family in your prayers,” Brown said. “We just had another senseless killing of a teenager, innocent bystander in a home. A bullet went through the house and it was fatal.” Brown’s use of the word “another” in this case likely refers to the fatal shooting of Ra’niya Steward , a 13-year-old from Alton who died from injuries sustained in a shooting in February of 2024. Brown was among several community members who helped organize a candlelight vigil in support of Steward and her family, with more details available in this story on Riverbender.com . Brown also recently commended the Alton Police Department

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WOOD RIVER — An Alton couple - George and Donna Julian - died Thursday morning, July 3, 2025, when their vehicle was struck by a driver fleeing police at the intersection of Illinois Route 143 and Illinois Route 3 in Wood River. The fleeing vehicle collided with the Julians’ car, which was traveling northbound on Illinois Route 3. The impact forced both vehicles into a ravine on the northwest side of the intersection, and the Julians' vehicle caught fire, resulting in the deaths of both occupants. George "Randy" R. Julian, 66, had been a longtime resident of Alton and worked as an operator for the Collinsville Water Department for more than 35 years before retiring in 2021. He was also self-employed at Tri County Lab, where he helped make dentures. Randy was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 520. He enjoyed dirt bike racing at Splinter Creek, gardening, raising tropical fish, and spending time with his family, especially watching his grandsons

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WOOD RIVER — The Madison County Health Department confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in mosquito batches collected locally on July 3, 2025, health officials announced Monday, July 7, 2025. West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, which becomes infected by feeding on infected birds. According to the Madison County Health Department, about 80% of people infected with the virus do not exhibit symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches lasting from several days to a few weeks. In rare instances, the virus can cause severe illness such as meningitis, encephalitis or death. Individuals over the age of 50 are at increased risk for serious complications. To reduce the risk of infection, the health department recommends several preventive measures. Residents are advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity times, particularly between dusk and dawn. Wearing protective

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ALTON – In response to our nation’s mental health crisis, as well as the need for mental health resources in the Riverbend region, OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center – Psychological Services will offer FREE mental health first aid training to interested individuals. This groundbreaking skills-based training session will give participants the tools to identify, understand and respond to someone who might be struggling with a mental health or substance use challenge — and connect them with appropriate support and resources when necessary. The Mental Health First Aid training course will be held on Friday, July 25, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at in the 3rd floor Psychological Services Group Training Room at OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center (1 St. Anthony’s Way, Alton, IL, 62202). Lunch will be provided during this all-day training course. Space is limited for this FREE training session and registration is required – online registration

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BELLEVILLE – Illinois American Water is increasing the income threshold for customers to receive assistance through its Income-Based Discount Program, beginning July 1, 2025. The program aims to support more customers paying their monthly water and/or wastewater bills. “The expansion of the Illinois American Water Income-Based Discount Program will help our residential customers who need financial help the most,” said Rebecca Losli, president, Illinois American Water. “Our goal is to make water and wastewater service affordable to our customers while continuing to make strategic investments in our water and wastewater infrastructure.” Illinois American Water has partnered with Dollar Energy since August 2023 on the income-based discount program. As part of the program, approved water and/or wastewater customers receive a monthly discount on their water and/or wastewater bill. Starting July 1, 2025, the Income-Based Discount Program eligibility

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