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Winter Driving Safety Checklist

7 months 4 weeks ago
Driving in winter conditions can be challenging and dangerous if you’re not properly prepared. Snow, ice, and reduced visibility require extra caution and preparation. Use this checklist to ensure you and your vehicle are ready for winter roads. 1. Prepare Your Vehicle Ensuring your car is ready for winter conditions can make all the difference in staying safe. Inspect Tires : Check the tread depth on your tires or consider switching to snow tires for better traction. Properly inflated tires also improve handling in icy conditions. Check Battery Health : Cold weather can weaken your car battery. Ensure it’s fully charged and in good condition. Top Off Fluids : Keep windshield washer fluid full with a winter-grade solution to prevent freezing. Check your oil and antifreeze levels as well. Replace Wiper Blades : Worn-out wipers can’t handle heavy snow or ice. Install winter-grade blades for optimal performance. Carry Chains or Traction Aids : For areas wit

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Missouri Women in Trades Re-Elects Officers

7 months 4 weeks ago
From St. Louis/Southern Illinois Labor Tribune:  Members of Missouri Women in Trades (MOWIT) met Dec. 7 for their annual retreat and planning session at the Golden Hoosier and re-elected officers to serve an additional one-year term. The officers include: Norma West of Stagehands Local 6, who will serve as treasurer; Dawn Fleming of Carpenters Local […]
Dede Hance

How to Prepare for a Major Snowstorm

7 months 4 weeks ago
When a major snowstorm is on the horizon, preparation is key to staying safe and comfortable. Use these practical tips to ensure you're ready for the worst while making the experience more manageable. 1. Stock Up on Essentials Even if a snowstorm is expected to last only a couple of days, the aftermath can bring extended challenges. Food and Water : Roads may remain hazardous or blocked even after the storm stops, delaying grocery restocks and deliveries. Power outages could spoil perishable foods in your fridge, making it essential to have shelf-stable options like canned goods, granola bars, and dried fruits. Ensure at least one gallon of water per person per day to account for drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene needs. Medications : Pharmacies might close or face delays, so having a full supply of essential prescriptions is critical, especially for chronic conditions. Household Items : Essentials like toilet paper, pet food, and baby supplies can run out quickly if you’re

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Local Grocery Stores Prepare for Winter Storm

7 months 4 weeks ago
ALTON - With a winter storm predicted for this weekend, local grocery stores are preparing for an influx of customers. People are encouraged to make their grocery trips as soon as possible and remain patient with employees. Managers at Schwegel’s and Schnucks in Alton said they have ordered more staple foods like bread and milk, and they are working to support their employees through the busy shopping days leading up to the storm. “We try to have fun with it. That way we don’t cry,” said Karen Flowers-Raymond, customer service manager at Alton’s Schnucks location. “Just be patient. We are on a holiday week, and we’re doing the best we can.” Flowers-Raymond said that Schnucks management came together on New Year’s Eve to assess their schedule for the next few days. Though many of their employees are off for the holidays, they worked to bring in as many employees as possible. They also noted which employees live farthest awa

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Calhoun County Welcomes New Deputy Sheriff Zach Smith

7 months 4 weeks ago
HARDIN - The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office would like to introduce our newest Deputy Sheriff, Zach Smith. On Dec. 17, 2024, Deputy Smith raised his right hand and was sworn in by the Honorable Judge Charles HW Burch. Deputy Smith was hired during the fall of 2024 and attended the Southwestern Illinois Police Academy; graduating on Dec. 6, 2024. Deputy Smith is a native of Calhoun County; and a lifelong resident, currently living in Hardin. He is a graduate of Calhoun High School, and John Wood Community College. Prior to joining the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, he served as a Corrections Officer with the Pike County Sheriff’s Department. The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office is excited to welcome Deputy Smith to our team. Deputy Smith is excited to make a positive impact, and to serve the community in which he has spent his entire life; and where he is raising his family.

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