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Custom Engraved Bricks to be Installed at James Killion Park

1 month ago
ALTON - Community members can purchase a brick to be dedicated at James Killion Park. The James Killion Beautification and Enhancement Committee is sponsoring a brick campaign to install personalized bricks around the bandshell at James Killion Park in Alton. For $200, you and your family or business can have a 12 by 12 concrete brick in the park. “The brick campaign came to be to have people in our community have ownership of what’s going on at Killion Park,” said Lee Barham, Brick Campaign Chair. “It’s also a way to enlighten people about what’s going on at Killion Park. We’ve got a new bathroom. We’ve got an amphitheater. It’s just the growth. That’s the first park people see coming and going from Alton.” Barham explained that the campaign aims to beautify the park while inspiring people to learn about its namesake, James Killion. The new amphitheater was recently dedicated at a ribbon-cutting ceremony

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More Than Just a Tan: The Crucial Role of Sunscreen and Summer Skin Care

1 month ago
Did you know that according to the World Health Organization, up to 90% of visible skin aging is caused by sun exposure? This startling statistic underscores a reality often overlooked: the sun’s rays are not merely a source of warmth and light, but also a major environmental factor that can accelerate skin damage and increase the risk of serious health conditions. Protecting your skin goes beyond vanity—it is a critical component of overall health and well-being. Understanding the Impact of UV Radiation Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is divided into UVA and UVB rays, both of which affect the skin differently. UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin, contributing to premature aging, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. UVB rays primarily affect the surface layers and are the chief cause of sunburn. More importantly, both types of UV radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that increase the risk of skin cancers such as melanoma, basal cell

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This Day in History on June 2: Queen Elizabeth II Crowned in England

1 month ago
June 2nd stands out in history as a day marked by events that have shaped nations, inspired movements, and witnessed remarkable human achievements. One of the most iconic events to ever occur on June 2nd happened in 1953 when Queen Elizabeth II was crowned in Westminster Abbey, London. This grand coronation ceremony was watched by millions around the world, both in person and on television, marking the beginning of a reign that would become one of the longest in British history. The event symbolized stability and continuity for the United Kingdom in the post-war era, and it introduced a new era for the Commonwealth. But June 2nd is not just about royal pageantry. Going back to 455 AD, this day witnessed the sack of Rome by the Vandals, a significant and somber episode that contributed to the eventual decline of the Western Roman Empire. The Vandals, led by King Genseric, entered Rome with little resistance, leading to widespread looting and marking a pivotal moment in the tumultuous

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FBI says 8 injured in Colorado attack by man with makeshift flamethrower who yelled 'Free Palestine'

1 month ago
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — A man with a makeshift flamethrower yelled “Free Palestine” and hurled an incendiary device into a group that had assembled to raise attention for Israeli hostages in Gaza, law enforcement officials said Sunday. Eight people were injured, some with burns. The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, was booked into the Boulder [...]
COLLEEN SLEVIN and ERIC TUCKER, Associated Press

With Missouri abortion access in limbo, both sides eye battles in court, on the ballot

1 month ago
Both sides of the abortion debate seemed caught by surprise last week by the Missouri Supreme Court’s order that essentially reimposed the state’s abortion ban.  Planned Parenthood clinics were sent scrambling, cancelling abortion appointments and working with patients to ensure access in other states — a return to the way things operated before voters enshrined […]
Jason Hancock

Rep. Kevin Schmidt Names Freeburg Country Mart for His "Business of the Month"

1 month ago
FREEBURG - After receiving submissions from across the 114th District, State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) was happy to select Country Mart to be his “Business of the Month” for May. Rep. Schmidt presented General Managers Kathy Nordike & Scott Metzler with an official certificate of recognition for their commitment to their employees and serving the community of Freeburg with exceptional services. “The Country Mart in Freeburg has gone above and beyond for local residents and deserve to be recognized for their dedication to their customers and community,” said Rep. Schmidt. “I was more than happy to present Kathy & Scott with a certificate that exemplifies their dedication to building a stronger community through strong values.” Since 2018, Country Mart has provided the community with affordable prices on groceries and excellent customer service. The General Managers said they praise their success to their loyal, hardworking employees.

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Edwardsville Municipal Concert Band Opens 140th Season June 5

1 month ago
EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Municipal Concert Band will kick off its 140th season of free summer concerts with an uplifting performance on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. at the Cleaon Etzkorn Bandstand in City Park. Please note the new start time this year—concerts will now begin at 7:30 p.m., a change from the previous 8:00 p.m. start. This week’s concert theme, “Take Flight: Heights, Sky, and Space,” features music that explores the experience of flight—from soaring through the skies to traveling among the stars. Audiences can look forward to familiar selections from Wicked and Star Wars, as well as powerful works like Flights of Passage and The Lark in the Clear Air. These pieces celebrate the imagination and emotion tied to reaching new heights, both literally and musically. Concessions will be available and proceeds will support the St. John’s UMC Outreach Team. Join us as we launch another season of live music in the park—a

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