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Donald Trump Declares War On Portland Because Of A Few Anti-ICE Protests

2 months ago
One of the few, small things the US press could do is stop pretending this administration is normal. It isn’t. It’s motivated solely by cruelty and revenge, in service of imposing its will and white Christian nationalist imperatives on the nation, which is nothing less than fascism. So, when President Trump says he’s sending the […]
Tim Cushing

Catholic Sisters' Compassion Leaves Lasting Impact on Care

2 months ago
From Patient to Pediatrician Author's note: between being interviewed for this story and its publishing, Sister M. Christine Crowder passed away . She was too young to remember it herself. But when Marci Well, MD, throws on the stethoscope, she sometimes recalls stories told to her about her life-threatening illness half a century ago. As an infant, Well spent a month at the hospital now known as OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center in Alton, Illinois. She’s sharing her story as part of the hospital marking 100 years of care in 2025, and she even credits the ordeal – and the comfort from one generous Catholic Sister – with partially inspiring her to pursue a career in medicine. Flashback to 1972 Carol Well, Marci Well’s mother, says in February of 1972, the family was living in the Alton area when 15-month-old Marci got sick. “She lost a lot of weight. Pneumonia-like symptoms. Low protein in the blood,” says Carol Well,

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Edwardsville High School Marching Band Freshman Invited To Prestigious London Parade

2 months ago
EDWARDSVILLE — Jeff Waters, a 14-year-old freshman at Edwardsville High School, has been invited to perform as a tenor saxophone player in the Tiger Marching Band at the 2026 London New Year’s Day Parade. The event, scheduled for January 1, 2026, offers Waters a unique opportunity to represent his community and country on an international stage. However, Waters’ family is unable to cover the expenses associated with the trip. To help fund his participation, Tim Mitchell has organized a fundraiser seeking donations from the community. Waters expressed gratitude for any contributions, emphasizing that every donation, regardless of size, will help bring him closer to this once-in-a-lifetime experience. “I have the incredible honor of being invited to perform in the 2026 London New Year’s Day Parade,” Waters said. “This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent my Edwardsville community and country on a global stage. Unfortunately,

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ISP Announces Results Of Violent Crime Suppression Detail In Metro East Area

2 months ago
ILLINOIS STATE POLICE ANNOUNCES RESULTS OF VIOLENT CRIME SUPPRESSION DETAIL IN THE METRO EAST AREA FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 29, 2025 EAST ST. LOUIS – Illinois State Police (ISP) conducted a violent crime suppression detail on September 22 - 24, 2025, in St. Clair and Madison counties, focusing its efforts on East St. Louis and neighboring Metro East communities. ? The operation utilized intelligence and technology to target known high crime areas, violent offenders, and structured criminal groups in the communities of the Metro East. Detail Results Arrests 37 Felony Charges 37 Criminal Charges 61 Firearm Related Charges 17 Firearms Seized 13 There were several notable events and arrests during the detail. On September 22, 2025, Troopers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for an Illinois Vehicle Code (IVC) violation. They conducted a probable cause search and seized a rifle, a handgun, and cannabis.

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Tucker's Automotive Repair & Tire Service Female Athlete Of Month: Freshman Maggie Pruetzel Shines In Girls Golf Season

2 months ago
ALTON - Maggie Pruetzel, a freshman at Marquette Catholic High School, is being recognized for her achievements in girls' golf this season. Pruetzel has distinguished herself by winning three matches, earning a spot on the all-conference team with a fourth-place finish, and being named the low freshman at the Gary Bair Invitational. She also played a key role in leading her team to a second-place finish in the conference tournament. She is a Tucker's Automotive Repair & Tire Female Athlete Of The Month for the Explorers. Pruetzel has been playing golf since she was 5 years old and recently began competing in Junior PGA tournaments. "One thing I like about golf is that there is always something you can do better and that pushes me to keep practicing every day," she said. Her coach, Jacob Simmons, has supported her development throughout the season. Pruetzel credits her determination and consistency as qualities that have helped her succeed. She also expressed gratitude toward her

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Prairie Cardiovascular Welcomes Dr. Summit S. Pandat To O'Fallon  

2 months ago
O’FALLON, Ill. – Prairie Cardiovascular is pleased to welcome Dr. Summit S. Pandat to its team in O’Fallon. Dr. Pandat is a board-certified cardiologist and electrophysiologist dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care rooted in respect, compassion and a commitment to excellence. He believes in building strong relationships with his patients, always prioritizing their best interests and personal preferences in care. He looks forward to partnering with patients on their journey to better heart health. Dr. Pandat completed his clinical cardiac electrophysiology fellowship at Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center in Houston, where he developed advanced expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of heart rhythm disorders. He is board certified in internal medicine and cardiovascular disease by the American Board of Internal Medicine and holds certification in adult echocardiography from the National Board of Echocardiography. Throughout

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USACE Honors Godfrey's Brian Markert With Bronze De Fleury Medal

2 months ago
ST. LOUIS — Brian Markert, a Godfrey resident and longtime civilian employee of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), was honored at a retirement ceremony in September 2025 for his 32 years of service with the St. Louis District. At the ceremony, Markert received the Bronze De Fleury Medal from Lieutenant General William Graham, Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of USACE. He was also awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service Medal by Major General Kimberly Peeples, Mississippi Valley Division Commander, and a Certificate of Appreciation from Colonel Andy Pannier, St. Louis District Commander. Markert began his career in 1993 at Mark Twain Lake in Northeast Missouri and later worked at the Rivers Project Office in West Alton, Mo., focusing on natural resource and facilities management. In 2001, he transitioned to the Project Management office in St. Louis. He retired as the Program Manager for the Upper Mississippi River Restoration Program, a position he held for mor

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How to Make Your Own Autumn Wreath with Natural Materials

2 months ago
Did you know that wreaths have been used for thousands of years as symbols of victory, celebration, and hospitality? Creating a wreath from natural materials is not only a way to honor this tradition but also an opportunity to bring a unique and personal touch to your home décor. Crafting an autumn wreath, in particular, allows you to harness the rich colors, textures, and scents of the season, transforming simple natural elements into a stunning piece of art. Gathering Your Materials: The Foundation of Your Wreath The first step in making an autumn wreath is collecting the right natural materials. While store-bought wreath bases are convenient, using natural materials can deepen the connection to the craft and the season. Wreath Base Options Vine or Grapevine: These bases are flexible and rustic, complementing natural foliage beautifully. Willow or Birch Twig: For a lighter, more delicate structure. Wire Frame with Moss: If you prefer a sturdier base, a wire fram

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More than Half of Americans Say Food Brings Them Closer: How to Harness This Power with a Fall-Themed Potluck Dinner

2 months ago
Did you know that 67% of Americans believe sharing a meal with others strengthens relationships? Potlucks, where everyone contributes a dish, are among the most effective ways to foster connection, conversation, and community. When paired with a thoughtfully curated fall theme, a potluck dinner becomes more than just a meal—it becomes an experience that celebrates both togetherness and the rich flavors of the season. If you’re planning to host a fall-themed potluck dinner, the challenge lies in creating an inviting atmosphere, coordinating diverse dishes, and ensuring your guests feel both comfortable and inspired. This article offers practical tips and insights to help you craft a memorable event that highlights the best of fall’s bounty while maximizing the social magic of a potluck. Setting the Tone: Inviting Guests with a Clear and Creative Theme A well-defined theme helps guests know what to expect and sparks their creativity. Instead of a generic "fall" label

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How to Celebrate National Coffee Day

2 months ago
Did you know that over 400 billion cups of coffee are consumed worldwide each year? This staggering number highlights coffee’s role not only as a daily ritual for millions but also as a cultural phenomenon spanning continents and centuries. National Coffee Day, celebrated annually on September 29th in the United States and on various other dates globally, serves as a testament to coffee’s enduring popularity. But how did this unofficial holiday come to be, and what is its significance beyond free coffee giveaways and promotions? Exploring the history of National Coffee Day reveals a fascinating story intertwined with commerce, culture, and community. The Origins of Coffee Appreciation Coffee’s journey from a mysterious bean to a global staple began centuries ago in the Ethiopian highlands, where legend credits a goat herder named Kaldi with first noticing the energizing effects of coffee cherries. By the 15th century, coffee had spread to Yemen, where Sufi monks

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