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SIUE Launches Inaugural Forensic Murder Mystery Camp In Belleville

3 weeks 2 days ago
EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville brought science and justice to life during the inaugural Forensic Murder Mystery Camp, held June 9–13 at the Southwestern Illinois Justice & Workforce Development Campus in Belleville. The immersive summer program welcomed high school students to explore the real-world intersection of forensic science and law through lab work, courtroom simulations, and mentorship from leading professionals. The camp marked a successful multi-institutional collaboration among SIUE’s Department of Forensic Sciences, SIU Carbondale’s Simmons Law School, the Southwestern Illinois Police Academy, Saint Louis University, and the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA). It was designed to activate the Belleville site with high-impact learning experiences that introduce students to the critical thinking, communication, and investigative techniques central to careers in forensic science and legal studies. Participants include

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Dr. Tron Young Resigns from Alton School District

3 weeks 2 days ago
ALTON - During their regular meeting on June 17, 2025, the Alton Community Unit School District #11 Board of Education unanimously approved the resignation of Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Dr. Tron Young. Young took on the Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services position in 2024 and served in this role for the 2024–2025 school year. He is leaving the district to take on the principal position at Fulton Junior High School in O’Fallon. “We wish him the best as the new principal at Fulton Junior High School,” said Elaine Kane, superintendent of the Alton School District. Prior to his work at Alton, Young was a principal at Central School District 104 in O’Fallon, where he was named 2020 Middle School Principal of the Year in Illinois. He has served as a principal in several schools over the years. Young accepted the position in the Alton School District last summer. His resignation takes effect on June 30, 2025. Alton

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One Man's Story of Trusting God Through Hardship

3 weeks 2 days ago
ALTON - On a recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust , P.J. shared his journey of faith. P.J. said he grew up in the church, but left for a while when he was younger before finding his way back home. Nowadays, he attends St. James in Alton and sings in the choir. He believes God can guide you through difficult times as long as you trust Him. “Believe in yourself. Believe in God,” he said. “Keep going forward. Let go and let God.” P.J. sings with the Great Rivers Choral Society as well as his church. He loves to sing hymns, and he carries a book of Psalms with him. He said the experience has been “healing and uplifting” as he works on “getting voice back.” He points to Psalms 118:22 — “The stone the builders refuse has become the headstone of the corner. This is the Lord’s doing. It is marvelous in our eyes. Amen” — as an example of the powerful lessons to be

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ICE Tells Agents They Can Start Making Unjustified Arrests Again

3 weeks 2 days ago
It has never been about removing dangerous criminals — the “worst of the worst” — from the United States. Under Donald Trump, immigration enforcement has been about removing immigrants from the country. Period. That’s the whole thing. (And, apparently the only immigrants welcome to seek shelter in the US are those of the whiter variety […]
Tim Cushing

Beloved Hairdresser/Co-Owner Of Papa Toodles In Godfrey Dies

3 weeks 2 days ago
KAMPSVILLE - Wade Gibson, co-owner of Papa Toodles in Godfrey and a beloved hairdresser, died June 19, 2025, after complications from a pancreatic cancer diagnosis. He was 58 years old at the time of his death. Wade was a long-time resident of Kampsville, with his husband, James. Wade was a loving father and grandfather. More information about his family and funeral information will be released in a later obituary. In an April social media post, Gibson shared the difficult news of his cancer diagnosis, writing, "This is the most difficult announcement I've ever had to make." He detailed his symptoms, including weakness, fatigue, and pain, which were initially attributed to medication and aging. Following the diagnosis, Wade said he would focus on his health and spending meaningful time with loved ones, adding that he would no longer be working as a hairdresser. James, his husband, reflected on Wade’s character and final days. "One of life's greatest challenges is bidding farewell

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