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Imagine gathering around a glowing circle of warmth, where stories flow as easily as the flickering flames, and the night air carries the scent of wood smoke and toasted marshmallows. A backyard fire pit is more than an outdoor feature; it’s a catalyst for connection, relaxation, and memorable evenings. But creating this inviting space takes more than just stacking stones—it requires thoughtful planning, safety considerations, and a touch of craftsmanship. Why Build a Backyard Fire Pit? Before diving into the how-to, it’s worth noting the growing popularity and benefits of backyard fire pits. Studies indicate that outdoor living spaces enhance home value by up to 20%, and fire pits are among the most sought-after features. Beyond aesthetics and property value, fire pits serve as social hubs, offering a cozy retreat for family and friends. Planning Your Fire Pit: Location and Design Choosing the Right Spot Selecting the ideal location is crucial for both safety

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June 23 has been a date marked by numerous significant events throughout history, spanning the realms of science, politics, culture, and exploration. A notable event occurred in 1941 during World War II, when Germany launched Operation Barbarossa on June 23, initiating the invasion of the Soviet Union. This marked one of the largest military offensives in history and dramatically altered the course of the war, with profound consequences for both Eastern Europe and the global balance of power. In the cultural sphere, June 23 has witnessed several milestones. For example, in 1894, the first ever motor race in the United States took place, signaling the dawn of a new era in transportation and automotive innovation. This event laid the groundwork for the thriving motorsport industry and the widespread adoption of automobiles. In literature, June 23 is celebrated as Bloomsday in honor of James Joyce’s novel “Ulysses,” which chronicles the events of a single day in Dublin

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS — Fairview Heights Police officers recently participated in a full day of in-service training focused on constitutional policing and officer safety, officials said. The training began with classroom instruction on constitutional requirements related to traffic stops, including relevant case law and federal statutes. Officers then moved outdoors to conduct high-risk traffic stop exercises using live role players. The day concluded at the shooting range, where officers practiced advanced safety techniques addressing ballistics and bullet penetration in vehicles. Training included the use of Simunitions and live fire exercises aimed at improving threat mitigation in and around vehicles. “An exhaustive day but critically important that our guardians are prepared, trained and educated,” the Fairview Heights Police Department said in a statement.

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ST. CHARLES COUNTY, MO. — A 64-year-old man from St. Charles, Mo., drowned Saturday afternoon, June 21, 2025, after an incident in the Mississippi River at the 2 Branch Island Sandbar, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The incident occurred around 3 p.m. on June 21, 2025. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported the man was on the back of a boat and entered the water without wearing a life jacket for unknown reasons. Bystanders recovered his body from the water and began performing CPR with assistance from a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper. The man was later pronounced dead at Mercy Hospital by Dr. Harmon. The Missouri State Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the drowning.

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, MO. — Donna Langheier, 77, of St. Louis, died following a motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Highway 100 and St. Alban’s Road on June 21, 2025, according to the St. Louis County Police Department. The crash occurred around 12:38 p.m. Saturday when a 2013 Ford C-Max, traveling southbound on St. Alban’s Road, attempted to enter Highway 100 and was struck by a 2015 Dodge Ram traveling westbound on Highway 100. Langheier, the driver of the Ford, was transported to a hospital but later succumbed to her injuries. The driver and passengers in the Dodge Ram were also taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The St. Louis County Police Department Bureau of Crimes Against Persons and Accident Reconstruction detectives are continuing to investigate the incident. Authorities have not released further details at this time. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

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JENNINGS, MO. — Alicia Leach, 24, of the 7200 block of Calvin Avenue, was identified as the victim in a homicide investigation after she was found fatally shot inside her residence early Saturday morning, June 21, 2025, St. Louis County Police said on Sunday, June 22, 2025. At 3:59 a.m., June 21, 2025, officers from the City of Jennings Precinct responded to a welfare check call at the Calvin Avenue address. Upon arrival, they discovered Leach suffering from gunshot wounds and pronounced her dead at the scene. Detectives from the St. Louis County Police Department’s Bureau of Crimes Against Persons are actively investigating the case. Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting or any potential suspects. Further information will be provided as the investigation progresses, officials said.

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HOLIDAY SHORES - Illinois State Police Troop 8 responded to a single-vehicle rollover crash on Illinois Route 140 at Illinois Route 159 in Madison County at approximately 9:05 a.m. on Sunday, June 22, 2025, ISP said later in the day. ISP said the driver was injured and transported by helicopter to a regional hospital. "The crash caused the roadway to be shut down temporarily, with reopening occurring around 10 a.m.," ISP said. Holiday Shores, Prairietown, and Meadowbrook Fire Departments also responded, along with the Madison County Sheriff's Office. ISP said no additional details have been released at this time.

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SWANSEA — The Swansea Police Department is investigating a homicide that took place in the 2100 block of Caseyville Avenue overnight. Detectives are actively gathering evidence and conducting interviews as part of the ongoing investigation. The victim has been identified as Bernard Oranika, 32, who was pronounced dead by the St. Clair County Coroner’s Office. Preliminary information indicates the suspect is known to the victim, and the incident appears to be isolated rather than a random act of violence. The Swansea Police Department, in coordination with the Illinois State Police, has completed processing the crime scene. Detectives are actively gathering evidence and conducting interviews as part of the ongoing investigation. Officials said the identity of the suspect is known, and no additional suspects are being sought at this time. The Swansea Detective Division is working closely with the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office on the case. The

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June 21 and 22 have long held a special place in the calendar. On June 21, 1788, New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify the United States Constitution, a pivotal step that allowed the document to take effect and establish the framework for a new democratic government. This milestone was critical in shaping the foundation of the United States, influencing democratic principles worldwide. Fast forward to the 19th century, June 21, 1864, saw the Battle of Jerusalem Plank Road during the American Civil War. Although this engagement between Union and Confederate forces near Petersburg, Virginia, was tactically inconclusive, it was part of the larger Siege of Petersburg, a campaign that would eventually lead to the fall of the Confederate capital and the end of the war. This battle exemplifies the intense struggles and strategic maneuvers that characterized the conflict. In the field of science and technology, June 21, 1948, marked the first successful test flight of the Convair

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MADISON COUNTY — A vehicle fire on Interstate 270 eastbound near State Route 159 near Glen Carbon in Madison County late Friday night, June 20, 2025, resulted in the deaths of several dogs being transported in a van, the Illinois State Police said. Illinois State Police Troop 8 responded to the scene at approximately 11:27 p.m. Friday, June 20, 2025, after a white Mercedes Transit Van was discovered fully engulfed in flames on the right shoulder near milepost 11. Firefighters extinguished the blaze, and troopers learned the van was carrying 11 dogs in kennels. ISP said the driver was able to remove some of the kennels and was not injured in the incident. However, it was determined that several dogs perished in the fire. Rescue groups from Texas confirmed on Saturday, June 21, 2025, that seven dogs died, while four survived. One surviving dog was taken to Hawthorne Animal Hospital in Glen Carbon for treatment of burn and smoke inhalation injuries. The Illinois State Police

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GRANITE CITY — On Saturday, June 21, 2025, C ongresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) joined local United Steelworkers leaders at a press conference calling for greater transparency and stronger investment commitments in the proposed deal between President Donald Trump and Nippon Steel. Budzinski, along with Local 1899 President Craig McVey and Sub-District Director Jason Chism, emphasized that Granite City Works employees have been excluded from the negotiation process and have yet to receive any firm assurances regarding necessary investments in the facility. “Granite City has been producing steel for 128 years — that’s 128 years of sweat, strength, and skill passed down through generations. And what have these workers gotten in return? Mass layoffs, idled blast furnaces, and growing uncertainty. They deserve better,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “Today, I stood alongside United Steelworkers leadership to demand a seat at the table and the

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SPRINGFIELD - Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointment in his administration: Illinois State Police Alicia Atkinson will serve as Statewide 9-1-1 Administrator.* Alicia Atkinson, ENP, brings nearly two decades of 911 expertise to the State of Illinois. Starting as a Telecommunicator, Alicia has held the positions of Certified Training Officer, Training and Quality Assurance Coordinator, Assistant Communications Manager, and Deputy Director within 911 centers. She also worked briefly in the private sector, where she led projects and teams supporting 911 centers in implementing software and call-handling protocols. A committed lifelong learner, Alicia maintains multiple public safety certifications and consistently seeks opportunities for professional development within the 911 industry. Her dedication to the 911 community is evident through her active involvement in committees and initiatives. As the Region

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CHICAGO- In the wake of reports that the Trump administration is proposing rules that would allow VA providers to deny military veterans healthcare based on their marital status and political affiliation, Governor JB Pritzker has directed key state agencies to take every available action to protect veterans’ access to care. “Our nation’s heroes put their lives on the line to protect our way of life, and we owe them every bit of care and support we can offer,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “The Trump administration wants to deny our veterans healthcare because of who they love or vote for – and the State of Illinois will do everything in our power to protect the benefits they have earned.” At the direction of Governor Pritzker, the State of Illinois is already taking action to push back against these reported new VA discriminatory measures, including providing resources to veterans and fighting to ensure their healthcare remains protected. Thes

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KINGS BAY, Ga. – Petty Officer 2nd Class Raymond Carey, a native of Greenfield, Ill., serves the U.S. Navy assigned to USS West Virginia at Naval Submarine Base (NSB) Kings Bay. As a submariner, Carey is part of a small percentage of Navy personnel continuing a 125-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans’ safety. Carey graduated from Greenfield High School in 2013. The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Greenfield. “I gained an appreciation for travel and exploring many other options,” Carey said. Carey joined the Navy 12 years ago. Today, Carey serves as a missile technician. “I joined for the experiences, travel, and to follow in my family footsteps of military service,” Carey said. "My uncle was in the Air Force for 20 years, and my cousin was serving in the military when I joined. I also have other family members who served." NSB Kings Bay is the homeport of East Coast ballistic-missile

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MADISON, Wis. - The University of Wisconsin-Madison has recognized two Edwardsville students named to the Dean's List for the spring semester of the 2024-2025 academic year. Edwardsville, IL: Sydney Chong, College of Letters and Science, Dean's List Maria Linden, College of Engineering, Dean's Honor List Students who achieve at a high level academically are recognized by the dean at the close of each semester. To be eligible for the Dean's List, students must complete a minimum of 12 graded degree credits in that semester. Each university school or college sets its own GPA requirements for students to be eligible to receive the distinction. To view an online listing, visit https://registrar.wisc.edu/deanslist/ .

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a coalition of 20 attorneys general, secured a preliminary injunction in an ongoing lawsuit against the Trump administration for attempting to illegally coerce their states into sweeping immigration enforcement by threatening to withhold billions in infrastructure funding. “States rely on billions of dollars appropriated by Congress to keep our residents safe as they travel our roads, railways and the skies,” Raoul said. “This critical funding has nothing to do with immigration, and the administration’s attempt to hold it hostage unless states agree to do the federal government’s job of civil immigration enforcement is unconstitutional and outrageous. I am pleased with the court’s order and am committed to using all tools at our disposal to fight the Trump administration’s ongoing attempts to play politics with Americans’ lives.” The injunction, issued by Judge John J. McConnell

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EAST ST. LOUIS - Dr. Katie Harper-Wright Elementary School kicked off its summer session with a popcorn-themed celebration aimed at fostering community and creativity among students. Summer School Principal Alecia Johnson shared details about the first week’s activities, which took place this past week at the school. Under the theme “Popping into Summer,” students engaged in a variety of popcorn-related projects and games designed to promote curiosity and teamwork. One notable event was the “Popcorn Race,” a science challenge where students used straws and popcorn kernels to explore the concept of air force while competing to move kernels across a finish line. Principal Johnson described the week as both exciting and successful, highlighting the energetic participation of staff and students. The week concluded with “Popcorn Friday,” a celebration where students received popcorn treats in recognition of their hard work and positive behavior.

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TROY, IL. - The Troy Police Department marked a night of promotions, new appointments, and farewells to longtime commissioners at a Monday night, June 16, 2025, city board meeting. Justin Christ was promoted to lieutenant, while Jessica Callahan and Austin Cripe were elevated to the rank of sergeant. The Troy Police Department also welcomed Chris Rice, who was sworn in as its newest officer. Rice brings more than 20 years of experience from a police department in Missouri and will serve as a School Resource Officer within the Troy school district. The meeting also recognized Don Clark and Tom Canivit for their years of service as Police Commissioners. Both Clark and Canivit officially stepped down from their roles, receiving commendations for their dedication to public safety and support of the department. The Troy Police Department expressed appreciation for the contributions of the departing commissioners and encouraged the community to congratulate the promoted officers

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SPRINGFIELD — As the school year approaches, the Illinois Optometric Association urges families to make comprehensive eye exams a priority on their back-to-school checklist. Vision is a key component of academic success, and undiagnosed vision problems can hinder a child’s ability to read, write, and learn effectively. According to the American Optometric Association, one in four school-aged children has an undetected vision condition. Unlike basic vision screenings at schools or pediatric offices, comprehensive eye exams with a doctor of optometry can detect a wide range of issues — including focusing problems, eye teaming, depth perception, and eye health concerns — that could otherwise go unnoticed. “Comprehensive eye exams are necessary to detect problems that a simple vision screening can miss, such as eye coordination, moderate amounts of farsightedness and astigmatism,” says Angela Oberreiter, OD, President & Chair of the Illinois Optometric

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GRANITE CITY – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) will join members of the United Steelworkers (USW) in Granite City to discuss the deal between President Donald Trump and Nippon Steel. Budzinski and the USW will raise concerns around the lack of transparency and local input as well as the deal's failure to include necessary investment in Granite City Works. They will call for a voice for workers at the negotiating table, and real commitments to protect American steel jobs in Illinois. To learn more, visit HERE . Budzinski will be joined by Craig McKey, President of the United Steelworkers Local 1899, and Jason Chism, United Steelworkers Sub-District Director for a Press Conference to Demand Seat at the Table and Local Investment. The event will be held Saturday, June 21, 2025 from 1:30 to 2 p.m. at Local Union 1899, Tri-Cities Labor Temple, 2014 State Street, Granite City, Ill., 62040.

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