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COLUMBIA — A fundraiser has been launched to support Allen Lalk, a Columbia Hockey Club coach and Uber driver who was shot in the face early Saturday, May 31, 2025, during a robbery attempt in Columbia, Ill. The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. when Lalk was held at gunpoint by two passengers and ordered to drive to one suspect’s home. Instead, Lalk diverted the vehicle to the Columbia police station in an effort to seek help, where he was shot as he pulled into the parking lot. Lalk, 52, was rushed into emergency surgery and is now beginning a lengthy recovery process. While he survived the attack, he faces significant medical bills and ongoing expenses related to his recovery. A Collinsville man, 20, and a 17-year-old boy from Cahokia Heights have been charged in connection with the shooting, according to Columbia Police Chief Jason P. Donjon. The suspects fled on foot toward Bolm-Schuhkraft City Park after the shooting. Nicole Sanderson, president of the Columbia

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WOOD RIVER – Improvements are coming to two Wood River facilities after the City Council’s recent approval of an architectural design agreement for a new Public Works building roof and a landscaping contract for the Rec Center. City Council members on Monday approved an agreement between the city and AAIC Inc. for the design of a new sloped roof system for the city’s Public Works building. The new sloped roof system will cover the existing roof, including the main building and two building connector structures, according to a design services proposal from AAIC. The new roof will match the existing roof and will feature new gutters, downspouts, and vented soffit panels. AAIC will cover the “Architectural Design” portion of the project, while the civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing engineering and more will be handled by other entities yet to be determined. After designing modifications to the existing rooftop, AAIC will prepare

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COTTAGE HILLS — Madison County Sheriff's deputies responded Monday afternoon, June 2, 2025, to a report of a dog biting individuals inside a home in the 200 block of S. Oak Street in Cottage Hills. Madison County Chief Deputy Sheriff Marcos Pulido said officers were dispatched to the residence after receiving reports of a two-year-old pit bull actively biting someone inside the house. "As the first deputy arrived on scene, while inside the residence, he did observe the dog aggressively cornering one of the residents," Madison County Chief Deputy Sheriff Marcos Pulido said. "The deputy was able to intervene and that resident was safely removed from that area. "It was revealed that an adult male and adult female were bitten by the dog while at this residence. The male suffered minor injuries to his thigh area and the female sustained lacerations to her left hand and left leg." Pulido said Madison County Animal Control took custody of the dog.

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EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. — An illegal immigrant from India residing in the United States was sentenced to 12 years in prison for his involvement in a fraud scheme that targeted elderly victims across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana, defrauding them of more than $400,000. Nirav B. Patel, 44, was convicted in February by a federal jury on charges including conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, three counts of wire fraud, and illegal entry into the U.S. Evidence presented at trial showed Patel participated in an imposter scam in which fraudsters posed as government officials to deceive elderly victims into withdrawing life savings under false pretenses. The scheme involved sending text messages and emails warning victims that their Amazon accounts had been compromised. Victims who responded were directed to individuals impersonating federal agents who claimed the victims were targets of identity theft. They were urged to transfer funds to fraudulent U.S. Treasury or Federal

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SWANSEA - At a Village Board meeting, the Swansea Police Department honored Sgt. Erin Huff and Officer Derek Schackmann for their lifesaving response to a stabbing victim on May 16, 2025. The incident stemmed from a domestic situation originating in another jurisdiction. Upon arrival, Sgt. Huff immediately administered critical medical care to stabilize the victim. Given the severity of the injuries, Sgt. Huff and Officer Schackmann continued providing care in the back of a squad car while a Belleville Police Department officer transported the victim to the hospital. The Swansea Police Department praised the officers for their professionalism, medical skill and composure under pressure. The department also acknowledged the assistance of Belleville Police in achieving a successful outcome.

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MADISON COUNTY — The Madison County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a series of recent burglaries involving suspects impersonating Ameren employees. According to the sheriff’s office, a female suspect approaches homeowners, identifying herself as an Ameren employee who needs to inspect the backyard for limbs requiring trimming. While the homeowner is distracted, a male accomplice enters the residence and steals jewelry and other valuables. Officials advise residents to remain vigilant and not to allow unknown individuals onto their property or into their homes. Genuine Ameren employees will be in uniform, carry proper identification, and operate clearly marked utility vehicles. Residents who encounter similar situations are urged to contact the Madison County Sheriff’s Office dispatch at (618) 692-4433 or use the anonymous tip line at (618) 296-3000. Local police departments are also available for reporting

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BETHALTO - Quentin Roose recently completed his senior year at Civic Memorial High School after an illustrious career from everything to athletics, and a diverse portfolio of extracurricular activities, leadership roles and community service. Roose has been involved in ice hockey for four years, baseball as a catcher for two years, and tennis during senior year. The student will begin studies at Washington University in St. Louis this fall on a full-ride Pledge Scholarship. He is a Tom Lane State Farm Insurance Male Athlete of the Month. Roose has also demonstrated academic and leadership excellence. He served as captain of his Scholastic Bowl team and held positions as secretary and treasurer on the student council. Additionally, he founded a Peer Outreach Program to support students with academic and mental health challenges, as well as a social media page for the school marching band. His commitment to community service is highlighted by an Eagle Scout project that involved

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Did you know that nearly 60% of Americans skip vacations each year due to cost concerns? Yet, a memorable getaway doesn’t have to be synonymous with expensive flights, luxury hotels, or pricey tours. In fact, some of the most rewarding travel experiences come from thoughtful planning, creativity, and resourcefulness. This article explores how to plan a low-budget summer vacation that delivers enjoyment and relaxation while keeping your finances intact. Setting a Realistic Budget and Priorities The cornerstone of any affordable vacation is a clearly defined budget. Start by listing all potential expenses: transportation, accommodation, food, activities, and incidental costs. Establish a maximum spending limit that feels comfortable without straining your finances. Next, prioritize what you value most. Would you prefer spending on unique experiences like local festivals or saving on lodging to allocate funds for dining out? Understanding your priorities helps you make smarter

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June 3 has long been a day marked by remarkable events that have shaped history across the globe. Going back in history, on June 3, 1886, the first successful ascent of the Matterhorn’s north face was achieved by a team of climbers led by Albert F. Mummery. The Matterhorn, located on the border between Switzerland and Italy, is one of the most iconic and challenging peaks in the Alps. This ascent was significant because it opened new routes for mountaineers and demonstrated advancements in climbing techniques and gear. The mountain’s dramatic shape and dangerous conditions have made it a symbol of human endurance and adventure. In the realm of political history, June 3, 1989, stands out due to the tragic events in Beijing, China. On this day, the Chinese government launched a violent crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators gathered in Tiananmen Square. The protests, centered around demands for political reform and greater freedoms, had attracted widespread attention

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ALTON — Charges have been filed in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred on May 28, 2025, in the 3100 block of Lawn Street, Alton Police Department officials announced on Monday, June 2, 2025. The Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine’s Office charged Hosea J. Burgess and Jermaine D. Stiff with unlawful possession of a firearm by a repeat offender, a Class X felony. Burgess is currently held at the Saint Louis City Justice Center awaiting extradition to Madison County, while Stiff remains in custody in Madison County. Both men will be held pending a detention hearing. The shooting took place at approximately 9:33 p.m. on May 28, when officers responded to multiple reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they found Donald R. Lane, 41, of Alton, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound inside a vehicle. Lane was transported to a local hospital but died from his injuries. Authorities indicated the incident was not random and appeared to stem from an encounter

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GRAFTON — Approximately 645 Grafton area customers are currently without power due to damage at a local substation, Ameren Illinois officials said around 4:30 p.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025. Karly Combest, a public relations strategist with Ameren Illinois, reported that crews are actively working at the substation in the Grafton area to restore service. The exact cause of the damage has not been disclosed. Combest said the utility company expects to have power restored in the Grafton area by 6:30 p.m. Monday. “Crews are actively working and trying to get everyone restored as quickly and safely as possible,” she said.

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JERSEYVILLE — A fundraiser has been launched to support Hannah, a local woman critically injured in a car accident on Reddish Road in Jerseyville. The accident left her with multiple severe injuries, including broken limbs, fractured ribs, a collapsed lung, brain bleeds, and a broken back, according to Sonni Dale, who is organizing the GoFundMe campaign. Hannah’s condition remains critical as medical staff continue to monitor her closely. Doctors have placed an intracranial pressure monitor to assess brain swelling and determine further treatment steps. She is currently unable to breathe unaided and has several chest tubes to manage lung complications. Additional concerns include strokes affecting the left side of her brain and a clot in the right artery of her neck. Hannah is a mother of two young daughters, Zadie, who will turn 5 on June 4, and Austyn, 8 months old. The fundraiser aims to assist with the extensive medical expenses she faces, including dental work and facia

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ALTON - The Alton Knights of Columbus host six blood drives a year, including one this week. From 1–5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, community members are invited to 1015 Milton Road in Alton to give blood. Richard Ruedin with the Knights of Columbus noted that the need for blood is urgent, especially as summer approaches and donation rates drop. “Come out and give blood,” Ruedin said. “It’s really critical now during the summer period. The need for blood will be even more because everybody’s on vacation, traveling, and donations are really low at this time of year. So please come out and help your community.” You can sign up online for a time slot to donate blood or simply walk in from 1–5 p.m. on Wednesday. Ruedin said they “really could use some walk-ins,” and he hopes many people come out. As an organization, the Knights of Columbus try to organize up to six blood drives every year. The group recognizes

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ALTON – OSF HealthCare Rehabilitation Services in Alton will be holding its monthly lymphedema education meeting on Thursday, June 5. Riverbend region residents are invited to join the OSF Lymphedema Therapy Team for this free educational session about lymphedema and meet other people with lymphedema. The June lymphedema education meeting, which will focus on the topic of “What is Lymphedema,”will be held: Thursday, June 5, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. OSF HealthCare Rehabilitation Services 228 Alton Square Mall, Alton, IL Enter the Rehab office from the upper mall parking lot, facing Alby Street, under the "OSF HEALTHCARE" sign Interested individuals should direct questions or requests for additional information to OSF Rehabilitation Services at (618) 463-5171. Lymphedema refers to tissue swelling caused by an accumulation of fluid that is usually drained by the body's lymphatic system. Some lymphedema facts include: It most commonly affects

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ALTON - Sherri and David Henson are celebrating 40 years of blissful marriage. The couple's wedding anniversary was on Sunday, June 1, 2025. The pair met in ninth grade at East Junior High School where David asked Sherri to “go steady” and they have been inseparable ever since. They attribute their long, happy marriage to laughing together often, approaching life as a team, and always supporting each other’s endeavors. The Hensons have three adult children (Abram, Adrianna, and Kain), one grandchild (Gabriel) and a second grandchild on the way. They are immensely proud of the family they’ve created and the life they’ve built. Sherri is the Director of Clinical Services at Alton Memorial Hospital and David is the owner and president of Environmental Resources, Inc. in Wood River. Sherri and David are commemorating their milestone anniversary with a series of getaway trips to Charleston, New Mexico, and Lake Tahoe. Their children are also hosting an intimate

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COLLINSVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that a full closure of Interstate 55/70 northbound/eastbound between Illinois 157 and Illinois 159 in Madison County will start, weather permitting, at 9 p.m. Friday, June 13, for bridge repairs. The closure is expected to remain in place for 17 calendar days. During that time, motorists should follow the marked detour as follows: Northbound/eastbound I-55/70: Take I-255 northbound to I-270 eastbound to reconnect with I-55 northbound, I-70 eastbound, or I-55/70 southbound/westbound. All lanes are scheduled to reopen by 5 a.m. Monday, June 30. Motorists should allow extra travel time for trips, especially during the first few days of the closure, and pay attention to additional signage on the marked detour route. Drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes, and are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, and refrain from using mobile devices

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ATLANTA - The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofits (PNP) organizations of the June 30 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by a tornado occurring July 14-15, 2024. The disaster declaration covers the Illinois counties of Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, Peoria, Putnam, Stark and Woodford. Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises. EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, an

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GRANITE CITY – Granite City Community Unit School District #9 announced enrollment and registration is now open for the 2025-26 school year. Families can register by using your SKYWARD account, and will have to make a designation to receive bus transportation. For all NEW enrollments, visit our Enrollment/Registration website for required documents prior to visiting our enrollment center. In accordance with enrollment and registration requirements, families currently restricted from accessing the Online Registration option will soon receive further instructions to complete the registration process. James J. Greenwald Administration Building 3200 Maryville Road Granite City, IL 62040 Admin Office Hours: Monday through Thursday: 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Friday: 7 a.m.-Noon Enrollment Office Hours: Monday through Thursday: 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Friday: 7-11 a.m. Students will not be allowed to attend school on the first day if not registered or enrolled.

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ALTON – Now that school’s out, there’s no doubt a variety of activities that can fill a junior high student’s calendar to stay occupied during the summer. We’ll find them on the athletic fields, around the pool or on a beach, maybe even exploring current or new hobbies. Maybe not so surprisingly, one area of focus that many junior high/middle school-aged students begin turning their interest to is career exploration. While it's not uncommon for career exploration to begin in high school, experts now recognize that junior high/middle school is a more suitable time to begin discovering career passions and interests. This allows students to engage in exploration with less stress and a greater openness to different possibilities. With the goal of assisting Riverbend region junior high/middle school students with an interest in a health care career, OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center will be sponsoring its first-ever Health Care Camp for Riverbend

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GRANITE CITY – A man from Granite City remains in custody after using a firearm during a domestic assault and battery. Brandon L. Fletcher, 42, of Granite City, was charged on May 30, 2025 with felon in possession of a weapon (Class 3 felony), domestic battery (Class A misdemeanor), and aggravated assault (Class A misdemeanor). On May 30, 2025, Fletcher allegedly assaulted a household or family member with a Smith and Wesson M&P .380ACP firearm by placing the firearm to their mouth. A petition from the State’s Attorney’s Office to deny Fletcher’s pretrial release states officers responded to a reported domestic disturbance before contacting the victim. The victim told officers Fletcher “began to make threats and retrieved a firearm” before the situation escalated further. “Upon retrieving the firearm, the defendant placed the firearm to the victim’s mouth,” the petition states. “Officers located the defendant, and he was

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