a Better Bubble™

Aggregator

Several St. Clair County Sheriff's Officers Honored: Investigator John Davis Receives Medal of Valor for Bravery

9 months 2 weeks ago
BELLEVILLE – The St. Clair County Sheriff's Department celebrated its officers' achievements at the annual SILEC/SIPCA awards ceremony. The event recognized exceptional service and dedication within law enforcement in Southern Illinois. St. Clair County Sheriff's Department investigator John Davis was honored with the prestigious Medal of Valor for his outstanding bravery. The Metrolink Division received the Unit Award, with recognition given to Lieutenant Troy Lindauer, Sergeant Maurice McMiller, and Deputies Christopher Davis, Mark Wagner, Jeffrey Schultz, and Carlos Coleman for their collective efforts. Additionally, several deputies were awarded the Certificate of Merit. The recipients included Deputies Morgan Meise, Orlandus Briggs, Terry Hamon, Steven Frierdich, and Master Sergeant Sean McPeak. The ceremony highlighted the commitment of law enforcement officers to their community, emphasizing the importance of their service and dedication.

Continue Reading

Shooting Victim Identified: Belleville Police Continue Investigation into Fatal Shooting Incident

9 months 2 weeks ago
BELLEVILLE - A 16-year-old boy was fatally shot Monday evening, Feb. 3, 2025, in Belleville, marking a tragic incident that has left the community in shock. The St. Clair County Coroner's Office said Dirico V. Washington was pronounced dead at 6:23 p.m. on Monday at Memorial Hospital in Belleville after suffering multiple gunshot wounds. The shooting occurred at Washington's last known address, 135 N. 81st St., in the 100 block of North 81st Street, Belleville. Belleville Police were dispatched to the area at 5:31 p.m. Monday in response to reports of multiple shots fired. Upon arrival, officers found Washington on the ground in front of a residence, where first aid was administered by both Belleville Police and Fire personnel before he was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The Belleville Police Department stated that the investigation is in its early stages and that further information will be released as it becomes available. Anyone with any information

Continue Reading

Midwest Members Credit Union Female Athletes Of Month: Roxana Cheer Program Celebrates Tradition of Excellence and Hard Work

9 months 2 weeks ago
ROXANA - The Roxana Cheer Team has qualified for the IHSA State Championships in Bloomington this Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, and Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025. The girls also advanced to the Illinois Cheerleading Coaches Association (ICCA) State Championships, marking a significant achievement for the program. The announcement came following their recent performance, and the squad was praised for its excellence. The Roxana cheerleading girls are Midwest Members Credit Union Female Athletes of the Month. The team’s success is attributed to the dedication and hard work of its members, as well as the longstanding tradition of achievement fostered by Coach Stephanie Palen over the past two decades. Palen has established a legacy with her highly talented cheer squads. Coach Palen made this statement about her squad: "I am beyond proud of my girls for their incredible hard work and resilience this season. These athletes have faced every challenge with determination and a positive spirit, proving

Continue Reading

Unlocking New Worlds: The Benefits of Learning a New Language in 2025

9 months 2 weeks ago
Did you know that over 75% of the world’s population speaks more than one language? As globalization continues to blur national boundaries, the ability to communicate across cultures has become not just a skill but a necessity. In 2025, learning a new language opens doors to opportunities that extend far beyond mere communication. From enhancing cognitive abilities to expanding career prospects, the benefits are multifaceted and undeniable. Cognitive Enhancement: More Than Just Words Learning a new language is like giving your brain a workout. Research has shown that bilingualism can improve cognitive functions such as problem-solving, multitasking, and critical thinking. A study published in Cognitive Science found that bilingual individuals performed better on tasks requiring attention and memory than their monolingual counterparts. Imagine a student juggling multiple languages while studying for exams. The mental gymnastics involved in switching from one language to another

Continue Reading

Orchid Show

9 months 2 weeks ago

They might not be the quintessential flower for Valentine’s Day, but pink and red orchids symbolize femininity, grace and elegance, desire, passion and love. Walking arm in arm with your […]

The post Orchid Show appeared first on Explore St. Louis.

Rachel Huffman

Missouri Republicans push to make laws restricting transgender minors permanent

9 months 2 weeks ago
Over 100 people traveled to the Missouri Capitol Monday to testify against bills that would place additional restrictions on transgender children.  Some brought posters to show their opposition to the legislation. Others made more subtle gestures, like crocheting in the colors of the transgender flag. Democratic lawmakers placed blue and pink cups reminiscent of the […]
Annelise Hanshaw

This Day in History on February 4: 2018 Winter Olympics Open in South Korea

9 months 2 weeks ago
February 4th has witnessed a range of significant events throughout history, spanning various fields such as politics, science, arts, and social movements. In the realm of politics, February 4th is significant for the 1997 signing of the Kyoto Protocol, an international treaty that aimed to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The protocol represented a landmark agreement among nations to address the pressing issue of global warming, showcasing a collective commitment to environmental sustainability. The Kyoto Protocol laid the groundwork for future climate agreements, and its anniversary serves as a call to action for continued efforts in combating climate change. In the world of sports, February 4th has also been a day of historic moments. For instance, in 2018, the Winter Olympics opened in Pyeongchang, South Korea, marking a significant occasion for athletes from around the world to showcase their skills in winter sports. The Olympic Games are not only

Continue Reading