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FAA: A Hughes 369D Model Helicopter Crashed Into Mississippi River Barge

3 months ago
ALTON - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the type of aircraft involved in the crash into a barge in the Mississippi River near the Melvin Price Lock and Dam as a Hughes 369D helicopter. Crystal Essiaw, a spokesperson for the FAA, said the time of the accident was 11:05 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, and also confirmed the aircraft did crash into a barge on the Mississippi River. The Hughes 369D is a light turbine helicopter that is a versatile aircraft and is described as one known for speed, maneuverability, and compact size. The FAA also confirmed again that two people were on board the aircraft at the time of the crash, and they died. "The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the incident, with the NTSB leading the inquiry and providing updates as they become available," the FAA said. The FAA described the information as preliminary and subject to change. The FAA plans to post a preliminary accident report, typically the next

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The History and Significance of International Cat Day

3 months ago
Did you know that cats have been companions to humans for nearly 9,000 years? Despite their long-standing presence in human society, cats have often lived in the shadows of their canine counterparts when it comes to public recognition. International Cat Day, however, shines a spotlight on these enigmatic creatures, celebrating their unique bond with humans and the important roles they play in our lives. But how did this day come to be, and why does it matter so much to cat lovers and animal advocates worldwide? The Origins of International Cat Day International Cat Day was established in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), an organization dedicated to animal protection around the globe. The day was created to raise awareness about cats’ needs and to promote their welfare, both as beloved pets and as essential members of many ecosystems. While cats have been revered in various cultures throughout history—from the sacred felines of ancient Egypt to

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This Day in History on August 8: Soviet Union Declares War on Japan in World War II

3 months ago
August 8th is a day marked by groundbreaking achievements, pivotal moments, and remarkable events spanning centuries and continents. In 1588, the English navy, under the command of Lord Charles Howard and Sir Francis Drake, defeated the Spanish Armada in a decisive naval battle that altered the balance of power in Europe. This victory was pivotal in establishing England as a dominant maritime force and limiting Spanish influence, shaping the geopolitical landscape of the time. Moving forward to the 20th century, August 8, 1945, was a day of intense and somber significance during World War II. The Soviet Union declared war on Japan, launching a massive offensive against Japanese forces in Manchuria. This action hastened Japan’s surrender and contributed to the end of the war, underscoring the complex dynamics of global conflict and diplomacy. On a different note, August 8, 1963, saw the establishment of the Great Train Robbery in the United Kingdom, a high-profile heist that

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O'Fallon Home Health Site Included in UnitedHealth Antitrust Divestiture

3 months ago
O'FALLON, Ill. – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, with the Department of Justice (DOJ), Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin and New York Attorney General Letitia James, filed a proposed settlement today requiring broad divestitures to resolve the challenge to UnitedHealth Group Inc.’s (UnitedHealth) $3.3 billion acquisition of Amedisys Inc. Among those divestitures is an Amedisys home health location in O’Fallon, Illinois. “This divestiture will help preserve health care service competition in the area, which is essential to preserving access, quality and affordability in home health care services for the most vulnerable patients,” Raoul said. “This collaboration with the Department of Justice and my fellow attorneys general allows us to ensure a competitive labor market for local nurses and health care professionals and to protect older residents and those managing chronic conditions.” The propose

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Today's Weather: Hot and Sunny with Heat Advisory

3 months ago
Today's high will reach 93 degrees with a low of 72. Expect sunny skies with hot and humid conditions. It will feel as hot as 100 degrees, so be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks if you're doing any strenuous activities outside. There are no watches, warnings, or advisories currently in effect. Allergy levels show a moderate ragweed count, low grass, mold, and tree pollen. The UV index is very high at 9, so sunscreen is recommended if you're spending time outdoors. Tomorrow's forecast calls for more of the same with a high of 93 and a low of 72. It will be sunny, hot, and humid again, with a very hot feels like temperature of 101 degrees. Winds will be from the south-southeast at about 10 mph with gusts up to 23 mph. Remember to drink plenty of water, wear light clothing, and limit outdoor exertion during peak heat hours. For more details, visit https://riverbender.com/weather .

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Phillip Tamburello Returns To Collinsville Police With Seven Years Experience

3 months ago
COLLINSVILLE — Phillip Tamburello returned to his hometown as he officially joined the Collinsville Police Department, bringing with him over seven years of law enforcement experience. Tamburello, a 2016 graduate of Collinsville High School and former captain of the CPD Explorer post, began his policing career after earning an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Southwestern Illinois College. Prior to joining Collinsville, he served with the Caseyville Police Department as a patrolman and detective and was named Officer of the Year in 2022. He will assume the designated service number 241, previously held by Terry Wasser, who retired from the Collinsville Police Department in 2015 after 22 years of service. Wasser, who also started his career in Caseyville before joining Collinsville, was present to welcome Tamburello to the department. The Collinsville Police Department expressed enthusiasm about Tamburello’s return, highlighting his local Kahoks

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Rural hospitals in Missouri struggle to turn a profit. Medicaid cuts could force some to close

3 months ago
Missouri’s 67 rural hospitals are pondering a dramatically different future under President Donald Trump’s new budget plan. The recently approved budget bill will slash federal Medicaid spending by more than $1 trillion over the next decade. By some estimates, it could lead to 8.6 million people nationwide losing health coverage. Various estimates conclude that between […]
Meg Cunningham