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CHICAGO – As part of the continued push to meet residents where they are and have services fit into their busy schedules, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has partnered with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) to re-establish new vehicle emissions testing locations for residents within the City of Chicago. “For too long, Chicagoans have been forced to travel long distances for routine vehicle emissions testing, which needs to happen every two years. Working with the IEPA, we have developed a modern and convenient alternative within the City of Chicago,” Giannoulias said. “Bringing services to people where they need them, reducing the hassle and sparing a trip to the suburbs will go a long way toward improving the lives of Chicago area drivers and vehicle owners.” “Mobile Test Units (MTUs) provide a convenient option for motorists to get their vehicle tested,” said Illinois EPA Acting Director James Jennings.

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EDWARDSVILLE – An approximately $700,000 improvement project is set to begin Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, to replace and upgrade the water main on Cass Avenue between North Kansas and North Buchanan streets. The project will include the installation of an 8-inch water main, replacing an older and smaller series of mains that now serve this area. This portion of Cass Avenue also will be resurfaced and new hydrants will be installed. The replacement project will bring improved long-term reliability and water flow in this area. Local traffic access is expected to be maintained during construction; however, some delays and access limitations are likely in the immediate area where workers are present. Weather permitting, this work is expected to wrap up before November. As part of the project, water service lines will be moved to the new water main. While the transfers are being made from each water service line, water customers can expect a temporary service disruption and will need

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GRAFTON - QEM Fire Protection District will host a blood drive to benefit the community. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, community members can stop by QEM Fire Protection District at 14905 Elsah Road in Grafton to donate blood. ImpactLife will run the drive, while the firefighters will be happy to answer questions, show off their firetrucks, and share their facility with the public. “The nation is low on blood,” said firefighter Cameron Mank. “We had a space to use, so we’ll utilize it to give an opportunity to help a little bit more.” Anybody who donates blood that day will be entered into a drawing for the chance to win two tickets to Guns ‘N Hoses. This event, scheduled for November in St. Louis, supports The BackStoppers through boxing matches between police officers and firefighters. You can click here to schedule an appointment to give blood, or walk-ins are also welcome. For more information about the QEM

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COLLINSVILLE — After a three-year pause, the Collinsville Police Department is restarting its Citizen Police Academy to foster better understanding and cooperation between law enforcement and the community. The program, designed to educate residents about the criminal justice system and everyday police work, will run for eight weeks beginning Sept. 23, 2025. Sessions will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and led by Sergeant Josh Hunt and Sergeant Jay Edwards. “The goal of our Citizens’ Police Academy is to promote understanding between our police officers and the residents we serve regarding their respective needs and problems,” the department said in a statement. “By promoting this relationship, the hope is that our residents and police can work together to make the entire community a safer place to live.” The academy offers a hands-on approach, allowing participants to observe and learn about various aspects of law enforcement.

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EDWARDVILLE - During the regular meeting of the Madison County Board on Aug. 20, 2025, the Board voted to send two solar projects back to the Zoning Committee for review. Wolf Road Solar requested a special use permit to develop a commercial solar energy facility in Foster Township on property that is currently zoned as Agricultural District. Rezy Road Solar also requested a special use permit to develop a commercial solar energy facility in New Douglas on property that is currently zoned as Agricultural District. During the public comments portion of their meeting, the Board heard from multiple people who advocated for and against the projects. Reuben Grandon represents the development company GreenKey Solar, which is behind the solar facilities. He asked the county to “not move the goalposts at this point in the process,” emphasizing that the projects have fulfilled all the requirements set by the county. Julie Hamilton, a homeowner, owns land that adjoins the

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Did you know that nearly 75% of readers say they are more motivated to finish a book when they are part of a book club? This statistic highlights an often overlooked but powerful dynamic of reading: the social element. Beyond the solitary act of reading, joining a local book club offers a rich blend of intellectual stimulation, social connection, and personal growth. For those looking to deepen their relationship with books and community, a local book club can be a transformative experience. Intellectual Enrichment Through Shared Perspectives One of the most compelling advantages of joining a local book club is the opportunity to engage with diverse viewpoints. Reading a book alone often limits interpretation to one’s personal framework. However, a book club creates a forum where multiple perspectives converge, challenging members to think critically and expand their understanding. Take, for example, a novel like To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. While many readers may

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August 21 stands out as a remarkable day in history, marking several significant events across different arenas. Let's take a journey through history on this day, exploring the major events that have left an enduring impact across the globe. 1968 – The Prague Spring Comes to an End On August 21, 1968, the Soviet Union and its Warsaw Pact allies launched a massive military invasion of Czechoslovakia to crush the reformist movement known as the Prague Spring. This period of political liberalization and mass protest had sought to create 'socialism with a human face' by introducing reforms like freedom of speech, press, and movement. The invasion abruptly ended these hopes, reinstating strict communist control and triggering widespread international condemnation. The event illustrated the tensions of the Cold War era and the limits of Soviet tolerance for deviation within its sphere of influence. The suppression of the Prague Spring remains a poignant reminder of the struggle

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COLLINSVILLE — The Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Board of Education approved Griffin Crask-Weeks, a Collinsville High School senior, to serve as the student representative on the school board during its most recent meeting. Crask-Weeks previously participated as a student member of the district’s strategic planning committee earlier this year. The Collinsville School Board selected Crask-Weeks to represent the student body and provide input on school district decisions. Collinsville School District officials highlighted Crask-Weeks’s experience and readiness to contribute to the board’s work. The appointment reflects the district’s commitment to including student perspectives in governance. Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 serves the city of Collinsville and surrounding areas, focusing on initiatives under the themes of envisioning, empowering, and achieving.

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Today's Weather: High 79°F, low 62°F. Mostly sunny and beautiful with a gentle breeze from the north-northeast at 7 mph, gusting up to 17 mph. The day feels very warm with plenty of sunshine and low chances of rain. Overnight is expected to be partly cloudy, with lows around 62°F and light winds from the northeast. Allergy indexes are low for grass, mold, ragweed, and tree pollen. The air quality is good, and the UV index is very high, so be sure to protect yourself if you’re spending time outdoors. Tomorrow’s Outlook: High 82°F, low 63°F. The day will be partly sunny and humid with light northerly winds at 6 mph. Overnight will be mostly clear with lows near 63°F and calm conditions. For more weather details, visit riverbender.com/weather .

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EDWARDSVILLE — A Madison County jury on Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, found Stanford Stokes, 44, of St. Louis, guilty of first-degree murder in the fatal shooting of Jarred Hayes, 32, at a residence on Seventh Street in Alton on Nov. 7, 2023. The jury also convicted Stokes of home invasion and possession of a stolen firearm. The verdict followed a trial that began Monday and was presided over by Associate Judge Neil Schroeder. Prosecutors presented evidence and testimony showing that Stokes forced his way into the Alton home after hearing his former girlfriend inside with Hayes. According to Assistant State’s Attorneys Audrey Paulda and Luke Yager, Stokes became angry and targeted Hayes. In her opening statement, Paulda told jurors, “Stokes became angry, and he took that anger out on Jarred Hayes.” Stokes testified that he fired in self-defense after seeing a gun in Hayes’ possession, claiming he grabbed a firearm from his former girlfriend’s purse.

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EDWARDSVILLE — After approximately five hours of deliberation, a jury found Stanford Stokes guilty on all charges related to the shooting death of Jarred O. Hayes. The incident occurred at 9:16 p.m. on Nov. 7, 2023, in the 900 block of East 7th Street in Alton. Stokes was convicted of first-degree murder, home invasion, and unlawful possession of a firearm. First-degree murder is punishable by 20 to 60 years in prison. The jury made a finding that Stokes personally discharged a firearm during the commission of first-degree murder, meaning he is eligible for an enhanced sentence: an additional 25 years to life in prison. Sentencing for Stokes has not yet been scheduled.

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CARROLLTON - Mitigation projects and activities that can reduce injuries and fatalities while maintaining vital services for Greene County residents will be the main topic of discussion at the Greene County Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee meeting at the Greene County Health Department, 310 5th Street in Carrollton, at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 3. The Committee began work last year to update the County’s Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan. This Plan details the past severe weather events that have impacted the County and identifies mitigation projects and activities that can be taken before a severe weather event occurs to protect residents and critical services and infrastructure. “Obtaining FEMA’s approval of our updated Plan will make all of the participants eligible to receive federal grant money for mitigation projects and activities,” explained Greene County Emergency Services and Disaster Agency Coordinator, Cale Hoesman. Projects identified

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HIGHLAND - Leaps of Love, a Highland-based nonprofit, supports families impacted by childhood brain tumors and the long-term effects of childhood cancer, offering hope, strength, and encouragement. Their mission is to connect and encourage families impacted by childhood cancer through retreats, support for bereaved parents, and survivor programs for ages 18+. Leaps of Love celebrated their 15th year in 2025, and as they continue to grow, the concern of funding is always a challenge. In 2022, a group of young men created the 24-Hour Laps for Leaps endurance race at Highland Speedway to support Leaps of Love. Although founder Traci Riechmann initially thought it would be a long and tedious event, it became the most fun and emotional fundraiser she experienced. Participants worked together in the pits, helping each other keep cars running, while competing fiercely on the track to see who could complete the most laps in 24 hours. The camaraderie and competitive spirit were all for raising

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SPRINGFIELD, IL – In an effort to forge relationships and increase export sales of agricultural products, the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) will host 21 international buyers from six different countries as part of a four-day tour. Buyers from Peru, Colombia, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Mexico, and Dominican Republic will visit Illinois facilities August 25-28. “The Illinois Grain Tour offers a unique opportunity for visitors from around the world to meet Illinois farmers, producers, and retailers face-to-face,” said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II . “Illinois is the top producer of soybeans and second in corn. Nearly half of that production – billions of dollars annually – is sold internationally. At a time when global tensions are high and the impact of tariffs remains to be seen, building these mutually beneficial relationships is more important than ever.” The 2024 Illinois Grain Tour had projected sales of $159 million. Representativ

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ST. LOUIS – The City of St. Louis is about to begin a significant upgrade to the zoning regulations that guide how the city will develop and grow in the decades ahead. The Zoning Upgrade - a modern code to meet the moment - will be the first major rewrite and map update to the city’s zoning code since the 1950s. More information can be found on the project website . Ahead of this effort’s official launch event on Sept. 3 , the City is welcoming residents to apply to join the Zoning Upgrade Community Advisory Committee , a 12-member group that will play a vital role in shaping the new zoning code by providing community insights, reviewing materials for usability and supporting engagement efforts throughout the process. “Our zoning code should reflect who we are and where we want to go as a city,” said Mayor Cara Spencer. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to design a zoning framework that supports growth, equity, sustainability and high-quality

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EDWARDSVILLE – A Troy resident faces felony charges of battery and mob action after he and an unidentified accomplice allegedly attacked someone riding their bike in Edwardsville. Hughes W. Crumbley, 18, of Troy, was charged on Aug. 15, 2025 with a Class 3 felony count of aggravated battery and a Class 4 felony count of mob action. On Aug. 13, 2025, Crumbley allegedly acted together with an unidentified male in striking the same victim without legal authority about the head and neck, causing the victim to sustain facial fractures. According to the state’s petition to deny Crumbley’s pretrial release from custody, at the time of this incident, he was on probation for similar behavior in another mob action case filed in Madison County earlier this year. “Victim and witnesses report that victim was riding a bicycle near Watershed Park and was pursued by multiple suspects in a truck,” the petition states. “The truck got ahead of the victim and two

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ST. LOUIS - The Department of Public Safety confirms the separation of Sarah Russell with the City of St. Louis as the Commissioner of the City Emergency Management Agency (CEMA), effective Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025. The City of St. Louis said: "In adherence to City Codes 4.15.010 and 4.15.020, which governs the confidentiality of personnel matters, no further details regarding the separation will be provided at this time. "We remain committed to ensuring continued service and leadership within the department during this transition." Russell’s separation follows an audit of the city’s emergency response to an EF3 tornado that struck north St. Louis on May 16, 2025. The tornado killed five people and caused extensive damage to homes and businesses.

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Early Saturday morning, August 23, at 1:06 a.m. CDT, the moon will slip into its new moon phase. That happens about once every month, but this one comes with a rare nickname: the black moon . Here’s the funny part — you won’t actually see it. During a new moon, the moon is tucked between Earth and the sun, so the side we normally see is completely dark. It’s basically a no-show in the sky. So why the “black” label? Astronomers use it for two unusual situations. One is when two new moons land in the same month, which only happens every couple of years. The other is when a season somehow squeezes in four new moons instead of the usual three. That’s what’s happening this summer, making this weekend’s new moon a seasonal black moon. Summer started with the solstice in late June and will end with the equinox in late September. Within that window, we’ll rack up new moons on June 25, July 24, August 23, and September 21. Since

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EDWARDSVILLE – Edwardsville City Council members moved one step closer to improving parking downtown at Tuesday’s meeting. Aldermen unanimously approved a Professional Services Agreement with Thouvenot, Wade & Moerchen, Inc. (TWM) for the preliminary engineering of the Edwardsville Downtown Parking Lot near City Hall. “ We have a TIF that specifically asked us to address the age-old question of parking downtown,” Alderwoman Elizabeth Grant said. “ This is going to allow this engineering firm to do a rendering that’s just conceptual. It’s not going to be any buildings, it’s just going to be a restructuring of the space that we have.” Grant added the concept would include bike parking and green space with the overall goal of improving traffic flow downtown. Chris Farrar asked if vehicle charging stations would be included, which was confirmed. While Grant reiterated these preliminary plans will

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EAST ALTON - In Madison County, Illinois, a 46-year-old man was charged with multiple counts of child pornography following an investigation initiated by a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office announced that John A. Siner faces eight counts of child pornography, a Class 2 felony. The investigation began in late June 2025 when the Madison County Sheriff’s Office Digital Forensics Division received the CyberTip indicating that a local resident was in possession of sexually explicit images and videos involving children. Detectives from the Madison County Sheriff’s Office conducted a thorough investigation, which they deemed credible, and served several search warrants over the following weeks to obtain records related to the case. On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, detectives from the Madison County Sheriff’s Office and the East Alton Police Department executed a search warrant at a residence

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