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WOOD RIVER – After a lengthy discussion at Monday's meeting, Wood River City Council members voted 3-2 to approve a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreement to open a dispensary in downtown Wood River. As first reported on Riverbender.com , Marko Glisic with Los Angeles-based Riverbend Ferguson LLC submitted an application for Tax Increment Financing (TIF) assistance to renovate the property at 40 E. Ferguson Ave. into a recreational cannabis dispensary. Dispensary representatives estimate the business will generate $1.5 to $2 million in revenue once operational. After Councilman Bill Dettmers asked for a more detailed breakdown of how much tax revenue would go to the state and city, it was estimated the city would receive about $60,000 from a local tax rate of 3%. Dispensary representatives believe the business would not only drive economic growth, but would also boost foot traffic in the downtown district. The project is also expected to generate 12-18 permanent jobs and

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GRAFTON - On Saturday, August 2, 2025, families and happy children descended on Red Hawk Park with gusto, ready for Grafton’s Family Fun Day. This annual celebration of summer is the last hurrah before school buses reappear. “Attendance was up this year with over 125 in attendance,” said Alderwoman Donna Smith, Chair of the Community Outreach Committee. The weather was perfect and everyone heartily enjoyed free hot dogs, chips and water provided by Dow Southern Baptist Church. Ashlen Scott, Miss Jersey County Fair 2025, was welcomed as a guest of honor, adding her sparkle to the event. Face painting by Abby Doering was an instant hit with the younger set and added to playground fun. QEM’s fire engine, Grafton’s police car, and Jersey Community Hospital’s ambulance provided children with a “hands on” experience and answers to their many questions. New this year, John Pietrusinski of the 2nd Army Ranger reenactors STL, held the interest

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GILLESPIE, Ill. — Terry L. Swan, 42, of Gillespie, was charged July 28, 2025, with multiple offenses, including forgery, DUI, driving on a revoked license, fleeing, and illegal transportation of alcohol. According to the complaint, Swan knowingly delivered a false document, specifically a check, to a bank with the intent to defraud. The forgery charge is classified as a Class 3 felony. In addition to forgery, Swan faces a Class A misdemeanor charge for driving under the influence, as well as Class A misdemeanor charges for fleeing and attempting to elude law enforcement and driving on a revoked license. He was also charged with the petty offense of transporting alcohol in a motor vehicle, which is considered a minor violation under Illinois law. Swan’s case is pending, and as with all individuals charged, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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High school athletes across the country are already feeling the heat as teams begin practices for several sports, including football, cross country and soccer. While student athletes and coaches are anxious to get the season under way, experts say it’s important to stay safe, especially when it comes to practicing during the grueling August temperatures. “The summer heat is very dangerous for so many different reasons, and it is important to know and identify those risk factors associated with heat related illnesses, particularly the athletes, their coaches and the staff who work with them,” says Faheem Ahmad, MD, a family practice physician with OSF HealthCare, who completed a fellowship in sports medicine. According to the National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research , heat stroke is the third-most common cause of sudden death among high school athletes behind cardiac arrest and traumatic brain injuries. Already this year, a 16-year-old student athlete

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STAUNTON — A 45-year-old man faces a felony charge of Aggravated Battery by Strangulation following an incident earlier this week. Donald L. Lloyd, who is listed as homeless, was charged on July 28, 2025, for allegedly strangling a victim with his hands on July 26. The complaint states that Lloyd knowingly and without legal justification made contact with the victim by strangling them. Lloyd has a prior criminal record, including a 2022 conviction for criminal trespass and a 2021 conviction for theft. The Staunton Police Department presented the case. As with all individuals charged, Lloyd is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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ALTON — The Puddle of Mudd concert at the Alton Amphitheater drew an estimated 1,200 attendees on Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, marking a successful event for organizers and fans alike. Dan Herkert, chair of the Alton Amphitheater Commission, said the turnout exceeded expectations. He also added that weather conditions were "great" for the concert. “The weather break was a huge boost and the crowd brought a lot of energy to the venue,” Herkert said. He noted that Puddle of Mudd has “diehard fans,” which contributed to the vibrant atmosphere. Wes Scantlin, lead singer of Puddle of Mudd, praised the venue and the audience. According to Herkert, Scantlin said, “This is the best amphitheater we’ve ever played,” and he complimented the venue, the crowd, and the efforts made to put on the show. Looking ahead, the amphitheater will host a free Food Truck Fest event on Aug. 23, 2025. Organizers are finalizing the list of participating vendors, aiming

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GRANITE CITY – Granite City Community Unit School District No. 9 is partnering with Chestnut Health Systems to host a school physical clinic on Tuesday, August 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Granite City High School parking lot at 3101 Madison Ave. This event will be held to help protect students and others by meeting school physical requirements. All incoming kindergarteners, 6th graders and high school freshmen are required to have a school physical and updated shot records. WHEN Tuesday, August 12 - 9 a.m.-3 p.m. WHERE • Granite City High School Parking Lot, 3101 Madison Ave. INFORMATION Who is eligible: Preschool-12th graders Limited time slots available - call or email for an appointment Medicaid and private insurance accepted Uninsured patients welcome Sliding fee scale available WHAT TO BRING: Parent/Guardian ID Immunization Record Insurance Card (s) RESERVE A SPOT Contact Jen Evans by phone (618) 512-1863 or email

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WASHINGTON - Illinois conservation organizations are applauding new legislation introduced Wednesday by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) to provide increased protection to three of the largest uninterrupted areas of southern Illinois’ Shawnee National Forest. The proposal would establish the Camp Burke Branch, Camp Hutchins and Ripple Hollow Special Management Areas, protecting them from any commercial extraction activity while allowing for active management of these natural areas. The bill would also establish a new Wilderness Area within Camp Hutchins. “These three areas are rich in biodiversity and among Illinois’ most pristine habitats, but they are not currently protected against logging or other commercial activities,” said Barbara McKasson, a leader with the Shawnee Group of the Sierra Club. “Senator Durbin’s proposal will ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy these high quality natural areas, and that they will continue to

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EDWARDSVILLE – The Edwardsville Police Department recently concluded a targeted traffic safety campaign, "Speeding Catches Up With You," from July 8 to August 1. This initiative aimed to reinforce the importance of safe driving habits and was part of a broader statewide effort. In collaboration with numerous law enforcement agencies, the Illinois Department of Transportation, and the Illinois State Police, the campaign's primary goal was to reduce the number of fatalities and injuries caused by speeding on our roads. During this enforcement period, Edwardsville Police conducted 63 traffic stops, resulting in the following citations and arrests: 43 speeding citations 8 distracted driving citations 8 citations for other traffic violations 2 arrests for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) 1 arrest for driving with a suspended or revoked license “For everyone driving through Edwardsville, we cannot stress this enough: obey the speed limits and take your responsibility behind

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JACKSONVILLE — State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) is pleased to announce the second winning entry in his 100th District Photo Contest. The winning photograph, titled “Bountiful Crop” was captured by Andrea Winters of Carrolton and will be proudly displayed in Rep. Davidsmeyer’s Springfield office at the Illinois State Capitol. The contest invited residents from across the 100th District to submit photographs that reflect the character and charm of the region. Submissions included images of local landmarks, scenic views, and vibrant community life, all showcasing the diverse beauty of the district. The winning photograph, which beautifully captures a group of deer standing alert in the middle of a lush green field, was selected from dozens of entries submitted by talented residents across the district. The serene yet vibrant image highlights the connection between wildlife and agriculture that defines much of the 100th District’s

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STANDARD CITY — A 60-year-old man from Standard City faces multiple felony charges after allegedly striking two household members and making physical contact with a law enforcement officer, authorities said. Mark W. Wallace was charged July 28, 2025, with two counts of domestic battery causing bodily harm, classified as Class A felonies, and one count of aggravated battery to a peace officer, a Class 2 felony. According to the complaint, Wallace struck the first victim in the chest with his hand. He then grabbed a second victim by the hair and struck him in the head. Following these incidents, Wallace allegedly grabbed a Macoupin County Sheriff’s Deputy’s arm and attempted to punch the deputy. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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JERSEYVILLE - On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Joshua Ackles and Trent Griffith found themselves at a loss: There was nothing for them to do in town with their kids. The day inspired Ackles and Griffith to open Tee Shots, a new entertainment complex in Jerseyville that will offer golf simulator bays, games, and more fun for families and sports teams to enjoy. With a soft opening planned for sometime in the next week or so, Ackles and Griffith can’t wait to share the complex with the community. “It's the whole reason we did it. The community is the highest priority that we have,” Ackles said. “The feedback that we’ve got from just about everybody we’ve talked to in town has been overwhelmingly positive. When I see people out and about, they tell me about how they’re excited for the place to open. They can't wait to come in and have some fun there.” Ackles and Griffith had been joking about starting a business like this since their

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SPRINGFIELD – Building on efforts to ensure quality healthcare accessibility for the people of Illinois, Governor JB Pritzker signed legislation on Friday that protects patients by limiting the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in therapy and psychotherapy services. The Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act prohibits anyone from using AI to provide mental health and therapeutic decision-making, while allowing the use of AI for administrative and supplementary support services for licensed behavioral health professionals. This will protect patients from unregulated and unqualified AI products, while also protecting the jobs of Illinois’ thousands of qualified behavioral health providers. This will also protect vulnerable children amid the rising concerns over AI chatbot use in youth mental health services. “The people of Illinois deserve quality healthcare from real, qualified professionals and not computer programs that pull information from all

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ALTON — The Highway Of Holiness Church Of Deliverance In Christ, Inc. partnered with Sacred Spaces of CARE and the Alton Police Department to host a backpack giveaway aimed at supporting local children. The event took place recently in Alton, providing each child with a backpack filled with school supplies, snacks, dental care items, a refillable water bottle, and therapeutic tools. The Alton Police Department expressed gratitude to the church for its commitment to serving the community. “We are so appreciative of their commitment to serving and supporting our community,” the department said in a statement. The collaboration was described as a “beautiful morning serving together,” highlighting the spirit of partnership among the organizations involved.

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EAST ALTON — A single-vehicle crash occurred at 12:35 p.m. Monday, Aug. 4, 2025, at the intersection of Willow Way Avenue and Berkshire Boulevard. According to East Alton Fire Chief Jeremy Diveley, the vehicle left the roadway, struck a yard lamp, and came to rest against a tree, and one person was injured. One patient was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, he said. Emergency responders arrived promptly to assist at the scene. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by East Alton Police.

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WOOD RIVER – A developer’s request for financial assistance to open a dispensary in downtown Wood River is on the agenda for the Monday, Aug. 4, 2025, Wood River City Council meeting. Marko Glisic with Los Angeles-based Riverbend Ferguson LLC has submitted an application for Tax Increment Financing (TIF) assistance to renovate the property at 40 E. Ferguson Ave. for use as a recreational cannabis dispensary. “The Cannaisseur Inc.” is listed as the proposed tenant under the developer’s TIF application. The company reportedly already holds a license from the State of Illinois to open and operate recreational cannabis dispensaries within the state. “The project will transform a vacant, underutilized property into a modern, compliant retail dispensary, addressing physical deterioration, outdated systems, and ADA non-compliance,” according to the TIF application. “By activating a long-dormant site, the project will boost downtown vitality

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ALTON – Riverbend Head Start & Family Services (RHSFS) is pleased to host its 3rd annual Donor Appreciation and Back-to-School celebration on Tuesday, August 5th from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Vera Lee Meeting & Event Venue in Alton. In addition to our donors and corporate sponsors, Alton Mayor David Goins has confirmed his attendance, along with Police Chief Jarrett Ford . "It is without a doubt that we don’t say thank you enough or have the opportunity to personally thank those who believe in us the most,” said President/CEO Gene Howell. “We look forward to seeing our mission partners on August 5 for the opportunity to thank them as we embark on our upcoming school year that’s filled with a world of possibilities.” At Riverbend Head Start and Family Services, our efforts to help families overcome generational poverty are successful because of the support of our caring and committed donors, volunteers and community partners. Guest speaker

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS - Fairview Heights Alderman Harry Zimmerman died this past week at his home, Mayor Mark Kupsky has announced. Zimmerman had been serving his third term, representing Ward Four since 2015. Kupsky said Zimmerman was known for his dedication to the residents of Fairview Heights and his efforts to improve the city. In addition to his role as alderman, Zimmerman served on several committees and commissions, including the planning commission, where he contributed for multiple decades. A proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, Zimmerman’s service extended beyond his military career into his commitment to local government. Mayor Kupsky expressed condolences on behalf of the city, offering sympathy and prayers to Zimmerman’s wife, Geri, and their family.

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ST. LOUIS, MO – July 2025 Award-winning happy hour returns with a special one-night event on August 21 - Drunken Fish, a staple in St. Louis’s dining and nightlife scene, is set to host an exclusive one-night event, the Summer "Pour" Happy Hour Party, on Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at its Central West End location. Celebrating the return of the restaurant’s award-winning happy hour, this highly anticipated event invites guests to enjoy a lively evening of signature cocktails, happy hour bites, and music in one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Tickets are priced at $28.95 and include" One complimentary happy hour drink A curated selection of happy hour bites Access to happy hour pricing on additional drinks/food throughout the event A live DJ set by St. Louis-based DJ LUVRBOI Located at 1 Maryland Plaza, Drunken Fish is known for its fusion of contemporary sushi, stylish atmosphere, and high-energy social events. The Summe

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COLLINSVILLE - Collinsville High School’s Marching Kahoks kicked off their band camp with a week full of color and heat, setting the stage for their upcoming Community Preview Night. The event is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, at Kahok Stadium. During the second week of band camp, students embraced vibrant spirit days, featuring themes such as Tye-Dye on Monday, Band Together on Tuesday, Beach on Wednesday, and Section Color on Thursday. The camp began with bright colors including white, pink, and purple, which was noted as a favorite. As the weather is expected to cool down this week, the Marching Kahoks prepare to showcase their progress to the community. The Thursday Preview Night offers an opportunity for families and local supporters to see the band’s work ahead of the 2025 season.

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