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SPRINGFIELD – As Bright Start 529 turns 25, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs is announcing record asset growth to more than $14 billion for Illinois’ flagship 529 college savings plan. The news comes as the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office kicks off College Savings Month, which falls in September. Sponsored and launched by the State of Illinois in the year 2000, the Bright Start 529 College Savings Plan is designed for higher education savings. Treasurer Frerichs also sponsors Bright Directions, a 529 plan for families who prefer to work with a financial advisor. Over the past 25 years, more than 250,000 students have used their IL 529 college savings funds to attend hundreds of universities, colleges, trade schools, vocational programs and apprenticeships. “Parents can sleep better at night knowing they’re prepared to pay for future education when the time comes,” Treasurer Frerichs said. “As a father of two toddlers, I know firsthand

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ALTON - The first Food is Love Festival is coming to the Alton Amphitheater. From 5–9 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, community members can enjoy music and food while raising money for Currency of Caring, an initiative that provides free meals to community members in Alton and the Greater St. Louis region. Comedian and organizer Jus Blaque hopes the festival is a fun chance to help others. “We just want to make sure that we are taking care of folks as best we can,” she said. “I’m real big on community. I’m real big on making sure that we take care of our community. If we do take care of our community, our community will take care of us.” With a variety of food trucks and food vendors slated to be at the festival, Jus Blaque promises “plenty of wonderful food” in addition to the entertainment. Murphy Lee and Kyjuan headline the event. They will be supported by Fresco Kane, Potzee, and Gusto. “Of course, we want t

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EDWARDSVILLE – The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center’s Building Futures (BF) Program is helping 18-year-old Somarie Chanice Rose Robinson get closer to what she wants most to do in life. Robinson is studying to pass her General Equivalency Diploma (GED). To enroll participants in the GED course, the BF program utilizes one of its community partners, Bonita Forker, of the Business Services Team at St. Clair County Intergovernmental Grants Workforce Development. And in Robinson’s spare time, she is thrilled to work at Gateway Pet Guardians, 725 N 15th St. in East Saint Louis. “I walk dogs, feed cats and dogs and give medication,” said Robinson, who began working at the clinic in November 2024. “I fill out reports if an animal is limping, throwing up or is in pain, so they can be looked at or treated by a vet. I also restock linens and toys for our animals, spend time with them and give them love.” “I wanted

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today delivered an opening statement at a Senate Judiciary Oversight Committee hearing with Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel. Durbin’s opening statement condemned Patel’s partisan and incompetent mismanagement of the FBI, highlighted the unprecedented purge of FBI officials, shared reports that Director Patel initiated loyalty tests, criticized his fumbling of Epstein-related materials, and denounced his release of false information about Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Key Quotes: “After his second election, in an unprecedented move, President Trump forced out Director Wray and nominated Kash Patel, arguably the most partisan FBI Director ever. Director Patel came to the FBI with a political mission. He wrote : ‘the rot at the core of the FBI isn’t just scandalous, it’s an existential threat to our republica

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EDWARDSVILLE - Jill Abernathy is organizing a fundraiser to support Anna Albinson, a member of the Triangle H Farm barn community in Edwardsville, after she was injured in an accident involving one of the horses. The incident, which required hospitalization, has led to mounting expenses for Anna’s family, including costs for meals and parking. Anna Albinson sustained multiple fractures, including injuries to her spine, ribs, pelvis, and sacrum. Despite the severity of her injuries, doctors determined that surgery was not necessary. After receiving care from the medical team, Anna was discharged and returned home, where she is now resting and beginning occupational and physical therapy. Tom Albinson, who provided updates on Anna’s condition, expressed gratitude for the support from the Triangle H barn community and credited Anna’s fitness and helmet for helping prevent more serious injury. “Because of you and others, Anna is now upstairs resting and on the road

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) will host a series of State of Illinois Career Fairs this September. These events will take place across multiple regions, providing community members with the opportunity to explore job opportunities with the State and connect directly with hiring managers. “We are committed to building a strong, skilled, and diverse workforce throughout Illinois,” said Raven A. DeVaughn, CMS Director. “These career fairs give us the chance to meet job seekers where they are and to help connect them with careers that make a difference in our communities.” All events are free and open to the public, including career changers, college students, first-time job seekers, and mid-to-senior-level professionals. Job seekers will be able to meet with representatives from various State agencies offering roles in healthcare, education, engineering, finance, corrections, and more. Openings include entry-level,

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ALTON - The 24th annual Vintage Voices tours encourage community members to learn more about Alton residents buried at Alton City Cemetery. Planned for Oct. 4, 5, 11 and 12, 2025, these walking tours take attendees through the cemetery to different gravestones, where an actor tells the story of the person buried there. Tours will take off every 15 minutes from 12–2:15 p.m. on those dates. There is also a non-walking performance at 5 p.m. on Oct. 5 at St. Mary’s Middle School. “We’re actively selling tickets and hoping for big crowds, which we don’t really have to hope for — they just come. It’s amazing,” said Jody Basola. “These actors put their heart and soul into becoming the person they’re portraying…Some people are just amazed at what they’ve heard, and that means so much to us. People come year after year, and every year they walk away with something new that hit them.” Basola explained that

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PONTOON BEACH – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that in addition to the ongoing closure of Illinois 111 at Interstate 270 in Madison County, a weekend lane closure of eastbound I-270 from Illinois 203 to Illinois 111 will begin, weather permitting, at 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19. The closure is necessary for ramp construction and is expected to be lifted by 6 a.m. Monday, Sept. 22. Work on the entire interchange is anticipated to be completed by the end of October. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes during this lane closure. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com .

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) announced that two of her bills, H.R.2034 , the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act, and H.R.3767 , the Health Professionals Scholarship Program Improvement Act, have passed the House of Representatives. “I’m excited to announce that two of my bills to support our nation’s veterans have passed the House,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “This legislation addresses two important challenges that veterans face: educational opportunities and health care access. The Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act will make it easier for veterans to grow their skills in high-demand STEM fields. Meanwhile, the Health Professionals Scholarship Program Improvement Act will help fill vacancies at the Veterans Health Administration and reduce wait times for veterans seeking care. I look forward to continuing to work alongside Congressman Abe Hamedeh to see these bills become

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MARYVILLE — Allison’s Friends of Hope Foundation donated $15,000 from its 2025 golf tournament to the Anderson Hospital Warren Billhartz Cancer Center on Monday, supporting the Anderson Friends of Hope Breast Diagnostic Center. The donation was presented earlier today to the Anderson Hospital Foundation, marking another milestone in the organization’s ongoing efforts to fund cancer research. Since its inception in 2004, Allison’s Friends of Hope has raised more than $1 million to support cancer research initiatives, including work at the Mary Crowley Medical Research Center in Dallas, Texas. The foundation was established to honor Allison Cassens, who passed away from colon cancer. It fulfills her final wish to raise money for cancer research. The Mary Crowley Medical Research Center focuses on expanding treatment options for cancer patients through investigational molecular and cellular therapies. In addition to funding research, the Cassens family donated

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today filed an amicus brief in support of the District of Columbia (D.C.) Attorney General Brian Schwalb’s lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s unlawful deployment of National Guard troops to D.C. Raoul and 21 attorneys general assert in the brief that the deployment of National Guard service members without the consent of the district is unlawful, unconstitutional and undemocratic. “The unlawful deployment of National Guard servicemembers in the District of Columbia, Los Angeles, Chicago, or any other American city, to perform routine law enforcement functions should concern everyone,” Raoul said. “Domestic use of the military has long been recognized as antithetical to American values, and the use of our nation’s military against our residents is an alarming sign that authoritarianism is here. National Guard service members should not be used as political pawns or put in situations they have

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EDWARDSVILLE – A program that has been helping Edwardsville residents plant trees on their property for more than two decades is back for 2025. The Tree Planting Program is an initiative of the Edwardsville Environmental Commission; approved applicants will be reimbursed half the cost (up to $100) to buy and plant a tree at their primary residence in Edwardsville. To be eligible for reimbursement, the property owner must submit an application to be approved by City staff prior to final selection and planting of a tree. Only trees listed on the City’s approved tree list can be considered for the program, which is offered on a first come, first served basis, while funding is available. Previous program participants are eligible to apply. Applications must be received by the City by November 1, 2025. Once the application has been approved, the tree must be planted by December 15, 2025, with receipts turned in by December 31, 2025. “This is a terrific opportunity to

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EDWARDSVILLE — The Edwardsville High School Cheerleading Team will hold its 5th Annual Golf Scramble on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, at Sunset Hills Country Club to raise funds supporting the program. The event will begin at 1 p.m. with a shotgun start at 2525 South State Route 157 in Edwardsville. The fundraiser aims to benefit the Edwardsville High School Cheerleading Team, which includes 50 members across three squads. As a 501(c)(3) organization, all proceeds will go through the EHS Cheer Booster Club to cover operational needs, uniforms for football and basketball seasons, competition travel expenses and entry fees for multiple trips to Chicago, choreography for competition routines, team-building activities, stunt and tumbling workshops, skill enhancement opportunities, and the end-of-season banquet. Organizers said sponsorships will be recognized throughout the 2025-2026 season, with names displayed on event programs, team T-shirts, and banners at home

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SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias awarded $28.3 million for library services and literacy programs throughout the state. The grants include awards to the regional libraries systems across the state to enhance online catalogues at local libraries, support day-to-day operations, expand interlibrary loan programs and to radio information services that equip vision-impaired individuals with narrations of newspaper content. The literacy grants are designed to promote basic reading, math, writing and English language skills. “Providing our libraries – the cornerstones of our communities – with the support necessary to expand their services and programs is vital to ensuring that all Illinoisans are empowered to learn, grow and explore, regardless of where they live, their physical abilities, financial situation or educational background,” Giannoulias said. “At the same time, raising literacy rates across

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CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker has proclaimed September 15-21, 2025, Rail Safety Week in Illinois, marking the 12th year of the statewide awareness initiative. In recognition, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) and Operation Lifesaver, a national rail safety non-profit, will be sharing life-saving rail safety information around the state. “Knowing how to act safely on and around railways is key to preventing collisions and protecting Illinoisians,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Rail Safety Week is a reminder of the dangers associated with highway-rail crossings, and the importance of always looking and listening near train tracks. I would encourage all Illinoisans to attend a rail safety event this week and share the information with loved ones.” “Every three hours, someone in the US is hit by a train. With more than 7,000 miles of tracks and 10,000 public highway-rail crossings, the sheer size of Illinois’ rail system puts us at

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JERSEYVILLE – A Jerseyville man previously convicted of domestic battery has been charged again with the same offense after allegedly attacking a member of his household. Zackery L. Stumbaugh, 34, of Jerseyville, was charged on Sept. 10, 2025, with one count of domestic battery, a Class 4 felony. On Sept. 9, 2025, Stumbaugh allegedly struck a household member in the mouth with his elbow, grasped the same victim’s leg and arm with his hands, and threw her onto a bed, knowingly causing bodily harm to the victim. Charging documents state Stumbaugh had previously been convicted of domestic battery in a 2018 case out of Sangamon County, Ill. In this latest case, Stumbaugh was initially granted pretrial release from custody with an initial court appearance set for Sept. 16, 2025, at 9 a.m. However, Jersey County court records indicate he has since failed to appear in court and a warrant is now being prepared for his arrest. All individuals charged are presumed innocent

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ALTON - You have the chance to learn more about spiritual connection and waking dreams at the Mississippi Earthtones Festival. Scheduled for this Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, at the Alton Amphitheater, the Mississippi Earthtones Festival will have a variety of booths and activities for people to enjoy. Flora and Chuck, two students of Eckankar, are most excited for their 2 p.m. workshop in the Zen Zone, titled “Prophecy for the Moment: Getting the Message of Your Waking Dreams.” “Everybody is on a spiritual journey, whether they’re aware of it or not,” Flora said. “The importance is your own inner guidance, really becoming solid with that.” The “Prophecy for the Moment” workshop asks the question, “Was that a coincidence or guidance from divine spirit?” Chuck, Flora and other ECKists will share experiences and spiritual exercises from their daily lives. Eckankar is a religion, also known as “the path

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ALTON - Wanda Chancellor is organizing a fundraiser to raise money for a wheelchair-accessible van for 3-year-old Rhea Chancellor of Alton, who was left paralyzed from the neck down after a sudden and severe illness on Nov. 26, 2022. Rhea spent one month in the intensive care unit fighting for her life, followed by two months at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital, beginning her rehabilitation. Since then, she has undergone three major surgeries, including a nerve transfer, emergency toe surgery, and brain surgery. She is also preparing for double hand surgery in Philadelphia later this month. Despite these challenges, Rhea has shown remarkable strength and resilience. Her family said she faces each obstacle with bravery and a smile that inspires those around her. However, transportation remains a significant challenge that limits her ability to participate fully in family outings, school, and other activities. The fundraiser aims to provide a wheelchair-accessible van to ensure

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NEW YORK – Simmons Hanly Conroy , one of the nation's largest mass torts firms and a national leader in the legal representation of mesothelioma patients and their families, is pleased to announce that firm attorney John B. Wetmore has been elevated to partner. Based in the New York City office since joining Simmons Hanly Conroy in 2020, Wetmore is a member of the firm’s Asbestos Litigation department, helping families affected by mesothelioma. He focuses his practice on all stages of litigation, with a particular emphasis on legal research, motions, and appellate practice. “John has excelled for many years as a key member of our team focused on holding powerful asbestos companies accountable for the harm they’ve caused,” said Simmons Hanly Conroy Managing Attorney Laurence V. Nassif . “We congratulate John on his elevation to partner in recognition of his many successes for our clients.” Before joining Simmons Hanly Conroy, Wetmor

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ST. LOUIS — In September, the American Red Cross reminds people that giving blood now helps support patients the moment they need medical care. Donors of all types, especially those with types O positive and B negative blood, are asked to make an appointment to give. National Preparedness Month is underway – a time to remember lifesaving blood products are an essential part of preparedness for every type of disaster, whether it be home fires or natural disasters, such as hurricanes, flooding and wildfires. Severe weather can disrupt blood collections by causing blood drive cancellations and impacting donors’ ability to give. Additionally, trauma patients may need blood product transfusions within minutes of entering emergency rooms. Those who give now could help someone in dire moments. A little care goes a long way People coming together to care for one another is the humanitarian spirit shared by our Red Cross community and fans of PEANUTS for the past

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