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How to Meaningfully Celebrate Labor Day

1 day 13 hours ago
Labor Day, a federal holiday that marks the unofficial end of summer in the United States, is often viewed as a day off work or a signal to enjoy barbecues and parades. However, its origins are deeply rooted in the struggles and achievements of American workers. Understanding the history and significance of Labor Day reveals much about the labor movement, workers’ rights, and the evolving nature of work in the U.S. The Birth of Labor Day: A Movement for Workers’ Rights In the late 19th century, the United States underwent rapid industrialization. Factories, railroads, and mines demanded long hours and harsh working conditions from laborers. Many workers, including children, faced grueling schedules with little protection or compensation. This era saw a rise in labor unions, organizations formed to advocate for better wages, reasonable hours, and safer workplaces. The idea of a “workingmen’s holiday” to honor laborers first emerged in the early 1880s.

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This Day in History on September 1: Nazi Germany Invades Poland, Starting World War II

1 day 13 hours ago
September 1st has long been a date marked by significant events that have shaped the course of history across the globe. Arguably the most consequential event to ever take place on September 1st happened in 1939 when World War II erupted. On this day, Nazi Germany launched an invasion of Poland, unleashing a conflict that would engulf much of the world for six devastating years. The attack began with a surprise assault using blitzkrieg tactics — fast-moving and coordinated strikes by air and land forces — overwhelming Polish defenses. This act prompted Britain and France to declare war on Germany, setting off a global conflict that shaped international relations, altered borders, and led to profound social and economic changes worldwide. The war's impact is still deeply felt today, making September 1st a poignant reminder of the costs of aggression and the importance of peace. Stepping back a bit, in 1715, September 1st marked the death of King Louis XIV of France, known

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Officer-Involved Shooting Under Investigation in O'Fallon

1 day 13 hours ago
O’FALLON, Ill. — The Illinois State Police (ISP) Zone 6 is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Thursday evening in O’Fallon. At approximately 7:43 p.m. on Aug. 29, 2025, officers from the O’Fallon Police Department responded to a disturbance call in the 600 block of West Madison Street in O'Fallon involving a man armed with a knife. Upon arrival, officers observed two individuals covered in blood running from the armed man outside the residence. Officers engaged with the man, who refused to drop the knife. An officer discharged their firearm, striking the man. Emergency aid was provided at the scene, but the man was pronounced deceased. The two individuals who fled were transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening cuts and stab wounds. The officer involved was not injured. The ISP conducted a thorough investigation and will submit all reports to the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office. The investigation remains

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Belleville Investigates Fatal Shooting of 19-Year-Old Man

1 day 14 hours ago
BELLEVILLE — Belleville Police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025. Officers were dispatched at approximately 7:20 p.m. on Saturday after a 19-year-old Belleville man arrived at Memorial Hospital with a gunshot wound. The victim was later transferred to a hospital in St. Louis, where he was pronounced dead. Authorities determined the shooting took place in the 500 block of North 38th Street in Belleville. Belleville Police Detectives and the Crime Scene Unit responded to the scene to process evidence and begin an investigation. The department described the case as active and ongoing, with additional information to be released as it becomes available.

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Have Fun and Stay Safe This Labor Day

1 day 14 hours ago
SPRINGFIELD - Labor Day is almost here. Our goal is to keep people safe by raising awareness about the risks of overconsumption this weekend. The key is to know your limits; drink responsibly and please utilize a designated driver or ride-share service if you are inebriated. Be Responsible: When drinking alcohol, it’s important to have a plan to stay safe. Always arrange for a designated driver and never operate a vehicle after consuming alcohol. In addition, be aware of the dangers of overuse and know the signs of alcohol poisoning. Alcohol Poisoning: The ILCC encourages everyone to recognize the signs of alcohol poisoning in themselves and others. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, symptoms of alcohol poisoning can include irregular heart rates, seizures, loss of consciousness and more. “As you celebrate, remember to stay mindful and make informed choices. Whether you plan to drink alcohol or simply enjoy the holiday weekend,

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Officer Austin Cross Begins Service With Alton Police

1 day 14 hours ago
ALTON — The Alton Police Department welcomed Officer Austin Cross in early July as he began his service with the department. Cross joins the force as a lateral officer from Montana, where he previously served as a sheriff’s deputy. Since his arrival, he has been studying Illinois law and has passed the necessary exams to qualify as a police officer in the state. He has now started his Field Training Program alongside a senior officer.

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Alton's Cierra Johnson Named To Columbia College Summer 2025 Semester Dean's List

1 day 14 hours ago
COLUMBIA, Mo - Columbia College recently announced its dean's list for the Summer 2025 Semester (April-August 2025). To be named to the dean's list, a student must have completed 12 undergraduate credit hours in a 16-week period and achieved a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0-point scale. Among those named to the dean's list is Cierra Johnson of Alton, who attended Online. Founded in 1851 in Columbia, Missouri, Columbia College has been helping students advance their lives through higher education for nearly 175 years. As a private, nonprofit institution, the college takes pride in its small classes, experienced faculty and quality educational programs. With locations across the country, more than half of which are on military installations, students may enroll in Day, Evening or Online classes. Columbia College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and maintains a network of more than 98,000 alumni worldwide. For more information, visit ccis.edu.

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E4 Supports Alton Steel's Renewable Energy Transition Through Community Solar Enrollment

1 day 14 hours ago
CHICAGO - E4, a leading energy and sustainability consulting firm, has partnered with Alton Steel to implement a Community Solar solution that reduces costs while supporting the company’s long-term energy and sustainability goals. As a major steel producer operating a 200-ton electric arc furnace and a 14-inch bar mill in Alton, Illinois, Alton Steel plays a key role in regional manufacturing and infrastructure. Through this new Community Solar subscription, the company is taking an important step toward aligning with their long-term sustainability goals and demonstrating their commitment to environmental stewardship while managing long-term operational costs. Community Solar offers commercial and industrial businesses a direct way to support clean energy generation without the need for on-site solar installations or upfront capital investment. Participating companies subscribe to off-site solar farms and receive credits on their utility bills, creating meaningful cost savings

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Labor Day: Unraveling the History and Traditions Behind the Celebration

1 day 14 hours ago
Did you know that the holiday many Americans associate with barbecues and the unofficial end of summer actually has roots in a powerful movement for workers' rights? Labor Day is more than just a day off—it is a tribute to the contributions and struggles of the labor force that built modern society. Understanding this holiday's origins and how it has been celebrated over time offers insight into both the evolution of labor rights and the cultural fabric of the United States. The Origins of Labor Day: A Tribute to the Working Class Labor Day traces back to the late 19th century, a period marked by rapid industrialization and often harsh working conditions. Factories, mines, and other workplaces were fraught with long hours, low pay, and unsafe environments. The labor movement emerged to challenge these conditions, advocating for fair wages, reasonable hours, and safer workplaces. The first Labor Day parade took place on September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Centra

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