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EAST ALTON, – Ronrecco Taylor, affectionately known as Rico, was a familiar face in East Alton, often seen walking around town or visiting local establishments like Subway and McDonald's. Tragically, Taylor was struck by a southbound Amtrak train on the Union Pacific Railroad tracks near the 100 block of Goulding around midnight on Wednesday. "When I first met Rico, he would always walk out in the street, and I told him, 'Man, you have to stay out of the street,'" recalled Woody Peterson, a friend of Taylor's. "It didn't click with him because of his mental disabilities, and I stuck with him for a year, helping him walk on the sidewalks. That's how we became friends." Peterson shared several stories that highlighted Taylor's character and their bond. One memorable moment involved Taylor visiting Peterson's home, noticing a football, and expressing his love for the sport. Peterson's son joined them, and they played catch together, with Taylor impressively catching the

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY - On Tuesday, August 27, 2024, the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office issued charges on Brandi James, 25 years of age, of the 14000 block of Willow Bend Park, Chesterfield, MO, 63017, for two counts Statutory Sodomy or Attempted Statutory Sodomy – Deviate Sexual Intercourse and one count Child Molestation – 3rd Degree. James is being held on a $300,000 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 reads: Victim's mother discovers the diary of her 13 yr. old daughter. Upon reading the diary, the mother discovers that her daughter had been sexually involved with a 22 yr. old church mentor. Information on victim's phone supports the allegation that the victim and defendant had engaged in sodomy on at least two occasions. Victim states that her and the defendant engaged in sexual contact over the clothes.

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JERSEYVILLE - 22 talented Jersey Community High School (JCHS) seniors have been recognized for their outstanding academic achievements by the College Board National Recognition Program. This program celebrates students' hard work in academic performance and showcases their strong performance on standardized tests. Criteria: GPA of 3.5 or higher and score in the top 10% on the PSAT/NMSQT assessment in the state of Illinois. Award Winners in alphabetical order: Abbigail Benz, Jaxon Brunaugh, Corah Derrick, Meredith Dougherty, Dax Goetten, Brayden Groves, Jovee Hileman, Kate Hudson, Camryn Johnson, Olivia Lamparter, Arianne Leslie, Reese Lorton, Matthew Maag, Maggie Maxeiner, Caitlyn Poletti, Peyton Schulte, Katie Schultz, Dinah Slusser, Amelia Strebel, Isaac Wargo, Annabelle Yamnitz, and Corree Yates. Principal Thomas Leslie states, "We're thrilled to celebrate our students and recognize them for their outstanding performance in the classroom and on College Board assessments. These

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O"FALLON - Before Monday evening's Oath of Office ceremony for Officer Landon Kreke, the O'Fallon community took a moment to honor the exceptional actions of its Police Officers, Telecommunicators, and Paramedics. Officer Effan, alongside several paramedics, received Lifesaving Awards for their prompt response to a medical emergency involving a 26-year-old resident who experienced sudden cardiac arrest at home. Their quick application of CPR, use of an AED, and further emergency care were pivotal in stabilizing the patient, who later made a full recovery and returned home to his wife and newborn child. MECOMM Telecommunicators Foster and Buhs, as well as Police Officers Krug, Heuser, Carter, Votrain, and Hancock, were awarded Chief's Commendations for their roles in a domestic disturbance incident. The call to O'Fallon Police came in that a young female was critically injured. Telecommunicators provided essential emergency care instructions and gathered suspect information while dispatchin

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EAST ALTON — The East Alton Police Department has identified the victim of a fatal train accident as Ronrecco V. Taylor, a 29-year-old homeless man from East Alton. Taylor was struck by a southbound Amtrak train on the Union Pacific Railroad tracks near the 100 block of Goulding around midnight. East Alton Police Chief Scott Golike confirmed that Taylor was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is currently under investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that the death was accidental. "The death investigation, which appears to be accidental in nature, is being conducted by the East Alton Police Department, with assistance from the Madison County Coroner’s Office," Chief Golike stated. The Madison County Coroner’s Office confirmed Taylor's death at the scene. At this time, no further information has been released by the authorities.

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ALTON - K9 Odin was a 20-month-old Belgian Malinois / German Shepard mix who was born January 2023 in Hungary. In January of 2024, K9 Odin received his passport and traveled to Shallow Creek Kennels in Sharpsville, Pennsylvania. In February 2024, K9 Odin was selected by the Alton Illinois Police Department to begin his law enforcement training. K9 Odin and his handler began training at the Illinois State Police K9 Academy in Pawnee, Illinois, on February 26, 2024, and graduated on May 3rd, 2024. From May 3rd, 2024, until the morning of August 22nd, 2024, K9 Odin served the City of Alton Illinois as a working police canine. During that short time, K9 Odin assisted the members of the Alton Police Department in locating illegal drugs, stolen vehicles, and apprehending violent offenders. On the morning of August 22nd, 2024, K9 Odin and his handler were requested to assist with locating and apprehending a subject who earlier injured a female with a firearm and was a continued threat to

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ALTON – State Representative Amy Elik has proudly earned a perfect 100% voting record from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and the Illinois Chamber of Commerce. This rating underscores Elik’s commitment to advocating for pro-business policies and fostering a favorable environment for businesses in Illinois. The NFIB and Illinois Chamber of Commerce are two leading organizations representing the interests of small businesses and the broader business community. Their annual voting ratings assess lawmakers’ support for policies that enhance the business climate. “I’m proud to be a be a legislator who understands the needs of small businesses,” said Rep. Elik. “I’m a CPA, I have worked with small businesses for over 29 years, and I know all too well the financial burden that our state’s policies put on our small businesses. With every vote I take, I carefully consider the effect that legislation wil

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EAST ST. LOUIS - Approximately 90 attendees – dressed in business attire and armed with resumes, profile pitches, hope and determination – approached the multitude of tables of employers at a Free Jobs Fair, made possible by State Rep. Kevin Schmidt , R-Millstadt, on Friday, Aug. 23. Schmidt’s legislative office held its second annual free jobs fair that was available for Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center (ESLC) staff and program participants and the public in the Multipurpose Room on the Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Campus. “Jobs are the number one driver of economic growth,” said Schmidt. “This is why it’s important for me to bring jobs to the community, because employment can dramatically improve the area in multiple ways.” Schmidt attended SIUE for two years and received his Doctor of Chiropractic and Bachelor of Science in human biology at Logan University in Chesterfield, Mo. The unemployment

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EDWARDSVILLE - Bring the kids to the West End Service Station, 620 St. Louis St., Edwardsville, on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024 and get your kicks at this Route 66 attraction with the creator of the ‘Hank the Hero’ story character and Woody, a black lab therapy dog who enjoys listening to stories about Hank. The free event takes place from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the newly refurbished Route 66 landmark. David Yates, the creator of the “Hank the Hero” and his adventures at West End Service Station through a coloring and activity book, and Donna Baardon with Woody, her therapy dog, will be on hand to meet kids and talk to them about Hank and Woody. Children will also be encouraged to read stories to Woody. Woody and Donna are a certified therapy dog team who regularly visit assisted-living facilities, libraries, schools and hospitals. Woody is a rescued black Labrador retriever mix. Donna worked as Director of Development from Lovejoy Library at SIUE before

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SPRINGFIELD - Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Interim Director James Jennings today announced a grant opportunity with $5 million in funding for projects that will improve water quality in Illinois. The Green Infrastructure Grant Opportunities (GIGO) Program has been made possible by Governor Pritzker’s bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital plan. The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is posted at https://il.amplifund.com/Public/Opportunities/Details/45aeb4c5-055a-4441-aeb8-d49eae66772b . “The green infrastructure projects funded through the GIGO program will protect Illinois rivers, streams, and lakes by reducing stormwater runoff,” said Interim Director Jennings. “The dedicated funding for this program will reduce the frequency and duration of localized and riverine flooding which improves water quality in Illinois waterways.” The GIGO Program seeks proposals for projects containing green infrastructure best management practices (BMPs) that

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As we look back on August 28, we are reminded of the significant events that have shaped our world, painting a rich tapestry of human endeavor, conflict, and triumph. 1963: Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' Speech Undoubtedly one of the most significant events in American history, August 28, 1963, saw Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. deliver his iconic 'I Have a Dream' speech. Standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, King spoke to a crowd of over 250,000 people. His speech called for an end to racism and for civil and economic rights, becoming a defining moment in the American Civil Rights Movement. King's powerful words and the massive turnout highlighted the urgent need for change and resonated deeply, not just in the United States, but around the world. 1914: Battle of Heligoland Bight During World War I, on August 28, 1914, the Battle of Heligoland Bight took place. This naval battle marked the first major engagemen

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ALTON/EAST ALTON - In the most recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust , Pastor Justin Bell spoke about repentance, following the Word of God and finding purpose through Christ. Bell, a pastor at Block Church in East Alton, explained that the best action one can take is to give oneself over to God. While this can be difficult, Bell noted that it’s an important part of building a relationship with God and learning from Him. “The best ability that you will ever have is simply just saying yes to God. Saying, ‘Yes, God, I’m here, what is it that you want from me?’” Bell said. “How many times have I failed God, failed to trust Him and maybe turned and went my own way? But God didn’t give up on me. So in turn, when I go out into the world, I’m not to give up on people. I’m to love them in the way God loved me.” Bell relies on the scripture Romans 2:4 NLT — “Don’t

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GLEN CARBON - As the Glen Carbon Police Department prepares to answer 911 calls for additional local agencies, the Village Board approved purchases of new dispatch center equipment and a new police vehicle on Tuesday night. As part of an ongoing Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) consolidation project, the Glen Carbon Police Department will soon be tasked with answering calls from the Pontoon Beach Police and Fire Departments, as well as the Mitchell and Long Lake Fire Departments. Police Chief Todd Link estimates the consolidation could lead to 6,000 additional 911 calls per year. To prepare for the increased workload, the board approved hiring an additional dispatcher earlier this summer . Two items approved on Tuesday concern new equipment for an additional dispatch desk. Among the equipment approved is a fourth dispatch console from Watson Systems at a cost of $31,390.83 and a fourth radio console for $90,129.75. Link said these would be funded from the village’s

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EAST ALTON - A pedestrian was struck and killed by a train early Wednesday morning near Silver and Goulding in East Alton. The incident occurred around midnight, and the East Alton Police Department and East Alton Fire Department responded to the scene. A body was discovered in the vicinity, and an Amtrak train was halted nearby. "At this time police are not releasing the male’s identity. It appears to be accidental at this time under investigation," East Alton Police Chief Scott Golike said. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing. Further details have yet to be disclosed by the authorities.

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SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Veterans’ Homes at LaSalle, Manteno, and Quincy are experiencing an increase in COVID-19 cases among its veterans and staff, and the overwhelming majority of cases have presented mild symptoms. As of Aug. 27, 2024, 36 people tested positive with COVID-19: LaSalle: three residents and nine staff Manteno: two residents and one staff Quincy: nine residents and 12 staff “Illinois’ five Veterans’ Homes have consistently monitored its staff and residents for symptoms of COVID-19 and all infectious diseases,” said IDVA Director Terry. “There is a nationwide increase in COVID-19 cases, and IDVA’s robust testing and infection control efforts have minimized the spread and ensured the safety of the veterans in our care and our staff.” “IDPH is happy to support IDVA in their efforts to respond to and contain disease outbreaks in Illinois veterans’ homes,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “IDPH

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BUFFALO GROVE - Ymer Technology, a manufacturer of electric vehicle (EV) components for the heavy equipment industry, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Lake County Partners, and the Village of Buffalo Grove, announced the grand opening of its new U.S. headquarters in Buffalo Grove. The company’s $5.7 million investment, bolstered by a Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois (REV Illinois) agreement, will enable Ymer Technology to produce cooling technology and thermal management systems for EVs while supporting Illinois’ clean energy economy. “Illinois’ future is electric, and we’re leading the charge and open for business,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I’m proud to welcome Ymer Technology to our great state. Their cooling technology and thermal management systems will not only enhance our EV supply chain, they will help us make EVs more affordable, create good jobs, and grow our clean energy economy.”

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BELLEVILLE - Caritas Family Solutions is proud to announce they have received an Employer Appreciation Award from the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis in honor of their partnership with the Save Our Sons and Sisters Program (SOS Program). The nonprofit human service agency has been working with the Urban League since 2017 and started its partnership with the SOS program in the Fall of 2023 to help connect members of the organization with job opportunities. The SOS Program seeks to help economically disadvantaged African American men living in the St. Louis region find jobs and have the opportunity to earn livable wages. The Urban League has hosted two hiring events for Caritas Family Solutions within the past year. The program works with a variety of organizations to connect people with the resources they need to find employment opportunities. “We love our partnership with Caritas Family Solutions,” said Charles Hamilton, Job Developer with the Urban League

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CHICAGO - As the new school year gets underway, the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is reminding eligible taxpayers that they may claim back-to-school expenses for their K-12 students on their 2024 Illinois individual income tax returns. “Both teachers and parents spend a lot of money in preparation for each school year and that is why I encourage them to utilize valuable savings offered through both the Illinois Educational Expense Credit (for parents) and the Instructional Materials and Supply Credit (for teachers)," explained IDOR Director David Harris. "It is important they keep receipts for all qualifying purchases in a safe place so they can be accessed when it is time to file their taxes.” The Illinois Education Expense Credit allows parents or legal guardians of a full-time K-12 student under the age of 21, to take a 25% tax credit on qualified education expenses over $250 this year. The total credit may not exceed $750, regardless of the number of qualifying

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ALTON - Two vehicles collided in the parking lot near Alton Square Mall Drive on Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 27, 2024, although no injuries were reported from the scene, according to local authorities. The incident coincided with a more severe accident at the intersection of Clawson and Brown in Alton . The Alton Police Department and Alton Fire Department responded to both crashes, experiencing a particularly busy 20-30-minute period. "Fortunately, the collision near Alton Square Mall Drive did not result in any injuries," said Alton Fire Battalion Chief Derrick Richardson. Emergency responders were able to manage the situation effectively, ensuring that both scenes were attended to promptly.

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JERSEYVILLE - Jersey Community High School senior catcher Emily Collins was a key player for her Panthers' squad this past spring. She batted near the .400 mark for the season and was one of the area's best hitters. Emily is a Sparklight Female Athlete of the Month for the Panthers. She was capable of standing in as a catcher, but also played first base, second base and outfield as a performer for the Southern Illinois Lady Roughnecks. She committed to play softball at Marian University in Indianapolis, Ind. Emily's head coach Chelsea Crnokrak was so proud of Emily for her performance this past season for the Panthers. "Emily was an offensive and defensive threat as our leadoff hitter and catcher," the coach said. "Very few runners have attempted to steal, as she has a quick reaction time and a strong arm. Our team is very young this year, and Emily has stepped up to be a leader in all aspects of the game." Again, congrats to Emily on her Sparklight Female Athlete of the Month honor

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