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Annual East Alton First United Methodist Church Trunk-Or-Treat Attracts Hundreds of Children

1 week ago
EAST ALTON — The East Alton First United Methodist Church hosted its annual trunk-or-treat event Sunday evening, Oct. 12, 2025, welcoming 431 children, an increase from last year’s attendance. Located at 1001 3rd Street in East Alton, the church has been organizing the Halloween-themed event for 15 years, long before trunk-or-treats became widely popular. Angela Sarandis, a representative of the church, said the event draws hundreds of participants annually. “We’re tried to beat the rush this year,” Sarandis said. “We love doing things for the community. With us being right across the street from the school, we have to do fun things, and this is one of our fun things.” This year’s event featured 10 to 12 decorated cars where children collected treats. At the conclusion of the trunk-or-treat, participants received cookies and had the opportunity to take photos in a designated area. A haunted inflatable maze was also available and proved

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Tim Earley's Neighbors Step Up After Edwardsville Apartment Fire

1 week ago
EDWARDSVILLE — Tim Earley, a longtime employee of the Stagger Inn and a well-known figure in the Edwardsville community, lost all of his belongings in a recent apartment fire. In response, Teri Maddox of Edwardsville has organized a GoFundMe campaign to help Earley recover and rebuild his life. Earley, recognized for decades of service delivering food and drinks and supporting local fundraisers, now faces the challenge of starting over after the devastating fire. Maddox said Earley was initially hesitant about the crowdfunding effort but ultimately agreed to the campaign to ease some of the immediate burdens. The fundraiser is available online for those interested in contributing to Earley’s recovery from the tragedy. Maddox encourages community members to support one of Edwardsville’s most familiar residents as he navigates the weeks ahead. Click here for the GoFundMe.

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How to Prepare Your Home for Colder Weather

1 week ago
Did you know that nearly 40% of a household’s energy consumption during colder months goes toward heating? This staggering figure underscores the importance of having a well-prepared home—not only to stay comfortable but also to manage energy costs effectively. Preparing your home for colder weather isn’t just about adding blankets or turning up the thermostat; it involves strategic steps to enhance insulation, protect your infrastructure, and maintain indoor air quality. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you optimize your living space for the colder months ahead. Inspect and Upgrade Insulation One of the most critical factors in maintaining warmth and energy efficiency is proper insulation. Heat loss through poorly insulated walls, attics, floors, and windows can significantly drive up heating bills. Why it matters: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs by properly insulating their

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Missouri health professionals worry about vaping access in young people

1 week ago
Originally presented as a less-harmful alternative to smoking cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and vapor products have transitioned from an aid for addiction to an addiction of their own. Vaping products were rolled out to help support a generation that grew up smoking. Over the years, however, younger generations have begun vaping without ever smoking in the […]
Addison Zanger

Day Fresh Tour

1 week ago

The most popular tour at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery in St. Louis explains the life of an Anheuser-Busch beer from seed to glass. Along the way, you’ll visit the Clydesdales Paddock […]

The post Day Fresh Tour appeared first on Explore St. Louis.

Rachel Huffman

Turning Nature into Art: How to Make Fall Crafts with Kids Using Natural Materials

1 week ago
Did you know that engaging children in hands-on creative activities can significantly enhance their cognitive development and emotional well-being? Crafting with natural materials not only sparks imagination but also fosters a deeper connection with the environment. When kids use leaves, acorns, pinecones, and other organic objects in their creations, they learn to observe textures, colors, and forms in new ways. This article explores practical methods to make fall crafts with children using materials found in nature, transforming a simple walk into an opportunity for artistic discovery. Gathering Natural Materials: The First Step in Creativity Before diving into crafting, the collection of materials is an essential and educational phase. Taking children on a nature walk to gather items encourages observation skills and a sense of stewardship toward the environment. Leaves in various shapes and hues, twigs, seeds, bark pieces, pinecones, and even stones can all serve as raw materials

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This Day in History on October 13: Cornerstone of the White House Laid in D.C.

1 week ago
October 13 stands out as a date marked by transformative moments across history, weaving a tapestry of events that have shaped the political, cultural, and scientific landscapes globally. One of the most impactful events happened in 1792 when the cornerstone for the White House was laid in Washington, D.C. This iconic building would become the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States, symbolizing American governance and leadership. The construction marked a pivotal moment for the young nation, setting the stage for over two centuries of political history within its walls. In 1881, the world of sports witnessed a notable moment when the first organized college football game in the American South took place between the University of North Carolina and the University of Virginia. This game helped lay the foundation for what would become a deeply embedded cultural tradition in the United States, with college football evolving into a major sporting and social

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