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AI in Behavioral Health: A Tool for Enhancement, Not Replacement

2 months ago
A recent article from the American Psychological Association noted that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used in health care settings, with its potential use expected to expand across the industry. While AI adoption in health care is on the rise, many providers and patients remain hesitant about its implementation. Although this apprehension is understandable, AI has the potential to enhance accessibility, efficiency, and personalization in mental health care, provided it is utilized thoughtfully and ethically. Currently, attitudes toward the use of AI in behavioral health care are mixed. Many people don’t feel strongly either way. On the other hand, there are a few who have strong opinions both in favor of and against the use of AI in mental health. However, as more physicians incorporate AI into their practices, particularly for documentation, openness to the use of this technology is increasing. As AI becomes more widespread, experts anticipate a shift

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Spring into a Summer Celebration at L&C's Annual Summerfest

2 months ago
GODFREY – Lewis and Clark Community College is inviting the community to campus for a fun-filled day at its annual Summerfest, from 4-7 p.m., Wednesday, June 4. This year’s event will be held in the George C. Terry River Bend Arena on the Godfrey Campus. Summerfest is free to attend and will include food trucks, inflatables, a children’s area, face painting, vendors, campus and community resources, L&C giveaways, and more. “We’re excited to return for another incredible year,” said Recruiter Daniel Nosce, who coordinates the event each year. “Join us for a vibrant, family-friendly celebration designed to engage and entertain community members of all ages.” Look for L&C’s mascot, Blazer the Newfie, throughout the event for a fun photo opportunity. Anyone interested in the college’s educational offerings can get information on everything from college-level transfer programs and short-term degrees and certificates to

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What does a Missouri Real ID look like?

2 months ago
Going forward, those without a Real ID will not be able to fly unless they bring a passport. Additionally, anyone without a Real ID can not enter a federal building or a nuclear power plant, according to the Missouri Director of Revenue.
Kamy Smelser

Belleville Man Among Four Charged In Southern Illinois District Child Exploitation Probe

2 months ago
Justice Department announces results of Operation Restore Justice 205 child sex abuse offenders arrested in FBI-led nationwide crackdown, four facing charges in the Southern District of Illinois EAST ST. LOUIS — The Department of Justice announced Wednesday, May 7, 2025, the results of Operation Restore Justice, a nationwide enforcement initiative aimed at identifying and arresting child sex offenders. Over five days, the FBI led a coordinated effort involving all 55 of its field offices, the Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, and U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country, resulting in the rescue of 115 children and the arrest of 205 individuals accused of child sexual abuse offenses. In the Southern District of Illinois, four individuals face federal charges related to child sexual exploitation. Jared K. Galbraith, 38, of Belleville, is charged with sexual exploitation of children and transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual

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Blazer Con 2025: A Look Back at L&C's First Pop Culture Celebration

2 months ago
GODFREY – Lewis and Clark Community College’s inaugural Blazer Con drew fans and community members to campus for an unforgettable day of fun, fandom and connection across sci-fi, fantasy, comics, and pop culture. The convention, held from 1-8 p.m., Saturday, April 12, saw a turnout of around 700 students, team members and community members. Con attendees shopped with local vendors, enjoyed delicious food options, and engaged in friendly conversations about their favorite fandoms. “It was truly incredible to see the community come together and celebrate the things they love,” said Blazer Con director and LC Media Specialist Jared Smilack. “Everyone had a blast, from the cosplay contest to the diverse range of vendors. The sense of community was electric, and that’s exactly what we hoped to create with Blazer Con.” One of the major highlights of the day was the cosplay contest, which took place at 3 p.m. and attracted some of the best-dressed

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Alton Memorial Dr. McDowell Highlights Rwanda's Assistive Technology for Blind Students

2 months ago
ALTON - In January 2025, Alton Memorial Hospital Chief of Staff and Chief of Anesthesia, Dr. Juri McDowell, traveled to Africa as part of an effort by regional business leaders to strengthen business relations between the St. Louis Metro area and Kigali, Rwanda. The overarching initiative, led by the World Trade Center and Nexus Group, is to establish a sister city agreement between St. Louis and Kigali. Dr. McDowell specifically wanted to learn more about the disparities in specialty medical care in the area and the innovations Rwanda has implemented in the setting of resource-strained healthcare delivery. While in the area, the group made an unscheduled stop at a local school for the blind named Seeing Hands Rwanda. The founder, Beth Gatonye, gave a tour of the small school and told the story of how she started it with her own money in her home not long after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi people. Students learn a variety of skills depending on their individual needs. Gaton

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Teacher Appreciation Week: McKenzie Sutton Aspires to Be Like the Teachers Who Shaped Her

2 months ago
BETHALTO - McKenzie Sutton wants to be like the teachers she had growing up. Sutton teaches ninth and eleventh grade English classes at Civic Memorial High School in Bethalto Community Unit School District #8. She loves watching her students grow throughout high school and beyond, and she tries to inspire them like her teachers did for her. “I had several teachers throughout my primary and secondary education that left a lasting impact on me, and I wanted to try and be that type of role model for kids in the future,” Sutton said. “I love building relationships with kids that help them to not only be successful in my classroom and throughout their high school experience, but beyond high school as well.” Sutton often goes out of her way to cheer on her students. She tries to meet each student where they’re at and provide them with the individualized support they need to succeed. She said there are “several rewarding experiences” every

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Bill overturning protections for Section 8 renters sent to Missouri governor

2 months ago
Local laws prohibiting landlords from discriminating against tenants who receive public assistance would be unenforceable under legislation sent to the governor’s desk Wednesday. The bill passed by a final vote of 23 to 10 on Wednesday in the Senate, over the opposition of Democrats. It previously passed the House 103 to 37.  The legislation takes […]
Clara Bates