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Back in April 2023, when Substack CEO Chris Best refused to answer basic questions about whether his platform would allow racist content, I noted that his evasiveness was essentially hanging out a “Nazis Welcome” sign. By December, when the company doubled down and explicitly said they’d continue hosting and monetizing Nazi newsletters, they’d fully embraced […]

A 17-year-old was hospitalized early Sunday morning after being shot at a short-term rental party in south St. Louis.

EDWARDSVILLE - These are three profiles of artists set to appear at the Edwardsville Arts Faire, held at Edwardsville City Park on September 26-28. Today's trio is Felicia Olin, Jeff Bohnert and Aron Kapembeza. Artist #1: Felicia Olin Medium: Painting Artist Statement: "My work is a reflection of my interest in fairy tales, nature, and fantasy art. I like to paint portraits of characters who live in my whimsical world." - Olin said. Artist #2: Jeff Bohnert Medium: Photography Artist Statement: "My photography captures the beauty and intricate details of landscapes, wildlife, nature, and architecture, with a focus on the connection between humans and the natural world. Through my lens, I aim to highlight the often-overlooked moments and textures that reveal the complexity and harmony of our surroundings. Each image is crafted to evoke emotion and inspire a deeper appreciation for both the man-made and natural environments. "My intention is

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Roger Daltrey is setting the record straight about the events that led to The Who’s firing of drummer Zak Starkey.Problems arose with Starkey during The Who's Teenage Cancer Trust shows at London's Royal…

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ALTON - The Alton-based artist Itchy? has a unique name and an even more unique style, and he wouldn’t have it any other way. As the August Artist of the Month, Itchy? currently has his work on display at Milton Schoolhouse in his first solo gallery. He joked that his work is “definitely strange,” but it comes from a deeply passionate place and has been a major source of healing as he perfects his style. “I don’t paint trees and houses because I can’t draw,” he laughed. “All I can do is paint me.” The journey to art wasn’t linear for Itchy? He began his career as a professional wrestler and suffered a few brain injuries. When he retired, he quickly realized he “wasn’t a part of normal society” and experienced “a series of nervous breakdowns” that eventually led to a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder. Art became his solace. After every therapy session, Itchy? would paint whatever

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ALTON - The Alton High School Marching 100 band is preparing for another great season. On Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, invited community members and performers’ families could watch the Marching 100 perform their halftime show ahead of the 2025–2026 season. Matt Chesner, the new director of the Marching 100, expressed his gratitude for the band and his excitement to share their hard work with the community. “It’s been a joy. It’s been so fun,” Chesner said. “Especially because I am new to , to have them be willing to let a stranger help them and work with them and become a part of their traditions, I’ve really felt welcomed and honored to be a part of that.” The Marching 100 is a storied tradition at Alton High School. Students come together to perform at halftime shows, parades and competitions throughout the region. The Aug. 1 performance marked the end of the 2025 band camp. Chesner shared that the band and color guard spent

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The economic power of the Latino population in the United States is as massive as it is misunderstood. Latinos contribute more than $3.7 trillion annually to the economy, more than the gross domestic product of all but four countries in the world. Latinos are the nation’s largest minority group with 64 million people. The vast […]

Every federal legislator in Missouri and Illinois who represents the St. Louis area has griped about the U.S. Postal Service, especially in rural areas.

SPRINGFIELD – Fairgoers are in for a special treat at the 2025 Illinois State Fair: Country music powerhouse Randy Houser will take the Grandstand stage for a FREE concert on Monday, August 11. “The Illinois State Fair is a celebration of our state’s people, agriculture, and traditions,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I’m proud that we can provide opportunities like this free concert, giving families from across Illinois the chance to come together, enjoy entertainment at the Fair, and make lasting summer memories.” With an inimitable voice, Houser has become one of country music’s most celebrated vocalists. His chart-topping album How Country Feels delivered smash hits including “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight,” “Goodnight Kiss,” and CMA Song of the Year nominee “Like A Cowboy.” Houser has since added more No. 1 hits to his catalog, including “We Went,” and continues to wow audiences

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SPRINGFIELD – As preparations ramp up for the 2025 Illinois State Fair, inspectors with the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) are on site ensuring that every amusement ride is thoroughly examined and approved for operation before the Midway opens to the public. “Public safety is our top priority,” said IDOL Amusement Ride and Attraction Safety Division Manager Brian Fox. “Each ride is carefully inspected to make sure it meets all safety and structural standards. If you see the IDOL permit sticker, the ride is approved for use.” The State Fair represents IDOL’s second largest annual inspection effort, following only the inspection of rides at Six Flags Great America. For the fair, IDOL deploys a team of six experienced inspectors to examine rides and attractions—not just at setup, but throughout the event to ensure continued compliance. To help families prepare, IDOL encourages parents and guardians to review ride safety tips with

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HARDIN — Country music fans can look forward to a lively night at the Calhoun County Fair on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, when Jake Maurer takes the stage at the fairgrounds. The concert, beginning at 7:30 p.m. with gates opening at 5 p.m., will feature a blend of modern country and down-home storytelling, promising an engaging experience for attendees. Jake Maurer, a native of Metamora, has been a fixture in Nashville’s music scene since 2007, regularly headlining at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. Raised in the Midwest with influences including Garth Brooks and Texas “Red Dirt” country, Maurer combines his background as a former college football player and teacher with his passion for music. He is known for his high-energy performances and ability to connect with audiences through humor and heartfelt songs. Maurer also tours extensively, performing at festivals such as Regina’s Hawgarama and fundraising events in Ontario and Montana. Opening the evening wil

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