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GRAFTON – Raging Rivers WaterPark invites families and thrill-seekers to make a splash this Independence Day with exciting rides and contests. On July 4, 2025, guests can enjoy a day packed with fun, laughter, and friendly competition at the waterpark. Season Pass holders or guests with day tickets on July 4, can sign up for the following contests to win prizes and swag: Best CannonBall Competition Best Belly Flop Wave Pool Races and Relays Competitions will begin at 1 p.m. Participants will need to register at the park on the day of the event. Other surprises will take place throughout the day. The park also offers free fountain drinks this summer to keep patrons hydrated. “This Fourth of July, we’re excited to introduce new ways for our guests to have fun and make memories,” said Jeremy Hayes, General Manager of Raging Rivers WaterPark. “There’s something for everyone—from friendly competitions to relaxing in the sun.” Raging

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a coalition of 20 attorneys general, filed a lawsuit today challenging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) decision to provide unfettered access to individual personal health data to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which houses Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In today’s lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, Raoul and the coalition argue that the mass transfer of this data violates the law and ask the court to block any new transfer or use of this data for immigration enforcement purposes. “This decision by the Trump administration will likely have a devastating effect on Illinois’ safety net hospitals and community-based health care providers, and a chilling effect on the most vulnerable populations’ willingness to enroll in Medicaid programs for which they are legally eligible,” Raoul said. “I will

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today secured a preliminary injunction halting Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s attempt to dismantle the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), ensuring continued access to critical public health and social service programs. On May 5, Attorney General Raoul and a coalition of state attorneys general filed a lawsuit to stop the administration’s sweeping and unlawful restructuring directive, which left HHS unable to carry out many of its most vital functions. Today, Judge Melissa R. Dubose of the United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island blocked the administration’s mass layoffs at several key HHS agencies while the case proceeds. “Since its founding, HHS has administered crucial offices and programs dedicated to protecting and advancing the health and well-being of all Americans. Programs like the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System are critical to families because they

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Letter to Editor/Opinion: Submitted by: - HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, IL HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese, IL HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Highland, IL HSHS Holy Family Hospital in Greenville, IL Medicaid funding cuts: a threat to our communities and our rural hospitals. As a leader of a rural hospital committed to serving our community, I wanted to express my continued concerns about the proposed Medicaid cuts currently in front of Congress. These changes would have a devastating impact on the patients we serve and the hospitals, like us, that they rely on for care. The legislation threatens access to health care for millions of Americans, especially in our rural areas who may be our friends, family and neighbors who rely on Medicaid and other safety net services for their basic health needs. The legislation, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” would harm critical health and social safety net programs, especially

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SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is awarding nearly $20 million in grant funding to libraries across the state to ensure access to quality resources and programming for all Illinois residents, Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias announced. “A library is more than just a building with books, it’s the epicenter of opportunity, discovery and community connection,” Giannoulias said. “From early childhood education to workforce development, libraries empower individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Properly funding our libraries will ensure that they are able to continue generating an outsized impact in communities across Illinois.” News of the grants comes amid federal cuts to library budgets nationwide. In March, the Trump administration signed an executive order to eliminate and defund the Institute of Museum and Library Services, which issues $180 million annually to libraries nationwide. Illinois receives

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that lanes that have been closed for construction will reopen, where possible, for the Independence Day holiday to minimize travel disruption. Non-emergency closures will be suspended from 3 p.m. Thursday, July 3, to 11:59 p.m. Sunday, July 6, 2025. The following lane closures will remain in place during the holiday weekend. The public can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through these areas. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and stay alert for workers and equipment. At all times, please buckle and drive sober. District 1 City of Chicago Kennedy Expressway (Interstate 90/94) reversible lanes; outbound only, lane reductions continue. Foster Avenue over the Kennedy; closed. Westbound Foster Avenue ramp to outbound Kennedy; closed. Eastbound Ohio Street feeder

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and local law enforcement across Illinois are sending a strong reminder: Whether you’re drinking alcohol, using cannabis or under the influence of any other impairing substance, if you get behind the wheel, you’ll face the consequences. During the July Fourth “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, zero tolerance will be showed for those driving impaired by alcohol, cannabis or other drugs. “If you drive impaired, you’re putting yourself and others at risk of being injured or killed,” said Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, IDOT’s bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering. “Don’t make this year’s Independence Day one that’ll be remembered for a tragedy that could have been avoided if you drove sober or had a designated driver.” According to provisional IDOT data, last year in Illinois during the Independence Day holiday

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SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Arts Council (IAC) is pleased to announce the release of the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Creative Projects Grant (CPG) guidelines and application. The goal of CPG is to provide up to $12,000 to support art projects for Illinois artists, eligible not- for-profit organizations, municipal entities, or colleges and universities. CPG projects must culminate with a public release or presentation of the work accomplished during the grant period. “Illinois is already known across the globe as a hub of art and creativity, from our world-class museums and galleries to our many renowned artists and artistic organizations,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “The Creative Projects Grant is an opportunity to further develop that creative ecosystem, support talented artists of all backgrounds, and enrich communities across the state. I want to encourage all eligible individuals and organizations to apply to make their artistic vision a reality.” “This

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WOOD RIVER - Riverbend Family Ministries acts as a cooling center during these hot months, but their staff works year-round to support community members. Located in Wood River, RFM is a “holistic hub” that brings together eight nonprofits under one roof. The organization primarily works with individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, poverty or violence. “We always say that our families are so brave to walk through our door,” said founder Tammy Iskarous. “RFM has been busy helping to meet that need. We can't meet it all, but we can meet a big portion of it in this county.” Rachael Craddick, Development Director, noted there are a lot of benefits to having so many resources under one roof. Clients can share their stories with staff members and receive the assistance they need. “There’s a wide variety of resources right there in the building that they can access,” Craddick said. “Sometimes it’s just

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Did you know that nearly 80 million Americans celebrate the 4th of July each year with parties, barbecues, and fireworks? This monumental display of patriotism and festivity often brings families and friends together, but hosting a memorable and smooth 4th of July party requires more than just sparklers and burgers. Whether you’re a seasoned host or planning your first Independence Day gathering, there are key strategies to ensure your celebration is enjoyable, safe, and truly unforgettable. Crafting the Perfect Invitation and Guest List The foundation of any successful party starts with thoughtful planning of who to invite and how to invite them. For a 4th of July event, consider the atmosphere you want to create—whether it’s a casual backyard barbecue or a more formal evening gathering. Tip: Use digital invitations to manage RSVPs efficiently. Platforms like Evite or Paperless Post can add a patriotic theme to your invites, setting the tone from the outset.

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July 2 stands out as a pivotal day in history, marked by momentous events that have shaped nations, cultures, and the course of humanity. 1776 – The Birth of American Independence On July 2, 1776, the Second Continental Congress officially voted to declare the thirteen American colonies independent from British rule. Spearheaded by figures like John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, the resolution for independence was passed, signaling the start of a revolutionary era. Although the Declaration of Independence would be publicly announced two days later, July 2 remains the actual date the colonies severed their ties with Britain. This watershed moment in history not only birthed the United States but also sent ripples across the world, inspiring democratic ideals and the pursuit of self-governance. John Adams famously believed that July 2 would be celebrated as a great American holiday, even more so than July 4. 1494 – Treaty of Tordesillas Divides the New World Fast forward

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ALTON - The Alton Municipal Band continues its 135th season of Concerts in the Parks with its annual Star Spangled Spectacular, celebrating Independence Day with music and community. The concerts, featuring vocal soloist David Guebert, will feature patriotic tunes of all kinds, including famous marches by John Philip Sousa, new patriotic songs by Mark Brymer, and the always popular salute to those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Held surrounding the Independence Day holiday, the concerts are the perfect way for families to mark the special weekend. Thursday evening, at Riverview Park, the band plays overlooking the Mississippi River at 7:30 PM. The concert will repeat on Sunday at 7 PM, in front of the historic Lucy Haskell Playhouse. Kona Ice will be present at the Sunday concert, selling spar-spangled snow cones for all in attendance. Alton Municipal Band concerts are free and open to the public. Community members are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs

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GODFREY – The Village of Godfrey has become the first and only Riverbend municipality not to replace the state’s expiring 1% sales tax on groceries. Instead, Mayor Mike McCormick cast a tie-breaking vote to raise the village’s sales tax by 0.75%. An ordinance to raise the sales tax in Godfrey was originally set for a first reading on Tuesday before trustees called for a suspension of the rules, bringing it to an immediate final vote. After significant discussion and debate, Village Board members voted their way into a 3-3 tie, with McCormick casting the tie-breaking vote in favor. Raising the sales tax was first proposed by Village Engineer Rich Beran , who pitched it as an alternative to replacing the state’s 1% sales tax on groceries like many other local municipalities. His proposal aimed to ease grocery costs for residents by effectively lowering the sales tax rate on groceries from the current 1%, while boosting tax revenue from visitors by raising

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BATCHTOWN — Calhoun Sheriff's Office executed a court-authorized search warrant in Batchtown, and it led to arrests. On the morning of March 10, 2025, the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the West-Central Illinois Drug Task Force, Pike County Sheriff’s Department, and Illinois Conservation Police, executed a court-authorized search warrant at a residence in the 500 block of Beech Landing Road in Batchtown, Calhoun County. At approximately 9:35 a.m., law enforcement officers seized illegal substances, drug paraphernalia, and firearm ammunition during the search. Following the operation, four individuals were arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine (less than five grams) and possession of drug paraphernalia. The suspects include Stephen H. Marciniak, 55, of Batchtown; Terri D. Marciniak, 53, of Batchtown; Stephen H. Marciniak, 32, of Bloomington; and Dustin A. Seidler, 41, of Batchtown. Note: For clarity's sake, Chief Deputy

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KAMPSVILLE — A Pearl man faces various charges after a traffic stop on Highway 96 in Kampsville. At 11:22 p.m. on March 12, 2025, law enforcement officials with the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office conducted a traffic stop on Illinois State Highway 96 in Kampsville, Calhoun County. During the stop, Christopher A. Bournais, 44, of Pearl, Illinois, was arrested following an investigation. Bournais faces charges of possession of methamphetamine (less than 5 grams), driving while suspended or revoked, and operating an uninsured vehicle. He was taken into custody without incident and subsequently released with a Notice to Appear at a later date at the Calhoun County Courthouse. Authorities emphasized that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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BRUSSELS — A Jerseyville man faces multiple charges following a traffic stop on Illinois River Road near the Brussels Ferry in Calhoun County. At approximately 3:06 a.m. on April 17, 2025, a deputy with the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office stopped Darin L. Day, 44, for an unspecified reason. After an investigation, Day was taken into custody on charges of possession of methamphetamine (less than five grams), driving while suspended, and operating an uninsured vehicle. Day was arrested without incident and later released with a Notice to Appear at the Calhoun County Courthouse. Authorities have not provided further details regarding the circumstances leading to the stop. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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ST. LOUIS, MO. – The City of St. Louis has launched new recovery programs to assist residents impacted by the May 16 tornado. These programs address urgent repair needs, provide trusted technical guidance, and protect homeowners from fraud or further damage. Four initiatives are underway: Emergency Stabilization, Electricity Reconnection, Ask an Architect and the Contractor Registry. Emergency Stabilization Program The Emergency Stabilization Program provides immediate weatherization to prevent further damage, including roof tarping, boarding windows and doors, hazardous tree removal, and moving debris to the right-of-way. The program is free to eligible residents in tornado-impacted areas, with priority given to seniors, uninsured households and homes in Zones A-C. Work is completed by licensed and insured contractors. Electricity Reconnection Program Hundreds of homes remain without power due to structural damage. The Electrical Reconnection Program provides free

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College students will soon be home for summer break. They’re embarking on their independent phase, so opening up about mental health to their parents might not top the summer to-do list. It can leave parents wondering: How did the school year go? Did they make friends? Are they doing OK mentally? Rachel Brown, LCPC, a psychotherapist at OSF HealthCare, says there are dos and don’ts to get the most out of a conversation with a young adult. S chool stress Brown says going off to college is a huge transition. The student may miss home. They may have trouble being accountable with no 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. structure they had in high school. Making friends can also be difficult. Brown says college students may be stressed and scared to branch out and meet people. “They might be anxious or get into a rut of depression. They might isolate. They might sleep too much or not sleep at all,” Brown says. Warning signs Brown says parents should watch for drastic changes

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PEORIA — Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined Attorney General Kwame Raoul, healthcare advocates, independent pharmacists, and legislators to sign into law the Prescription Drug Affordability Act (HB 1697) and the Healthcare Protection Expansion Act (HB 3019), which will lower prescription drug costs and expand healthcare access, respectively. These reforms deliver on Gov. Pritzker’s healthcare initiatives outlined earlier this year and build on his commitment to improving affordability and access in Illinois’ healthcare system. “For too long, our healthcare system has been infected by profit-seeking middlemen and predatory actors looking to make an extra dime at the expense of Illinois patients ,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “ Affordability is our watchword in Illinois, and the bills I signed today are another step toward quality and affordable healthcare for all by lowering costs for families and providing transformational relief to those who need

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JERSEYVILLE – The wait is nearly over as a highly anticipated splash pad nears its opening day in Jerseyville’s Wittman Park. The Jerseyville Parks and Recreation Department announced Tuesday afternoon that the Wittman Park Splash Pad will officially open on Monday, July 7, 2025. The new kid-friendly water installation will be open every day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission to the splash pad is free, and concessions will be available for purchase with cash only. While there will be no lifeguard on duty, the department said there will be a front desk with management staff available for customer service needs. The Parks Department is allowing the public to bring their own chairs for the pool deck area amid delayed deliveries of the site’s final pool chairs. However, visitors are asked to keep their chairs off the “Splash Zone,” which is the soft, tiled area colored in multiple shades of blue directly surrounding the water features. If the splash

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