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CARLINVILLE – Blackburn College has welcomed its largest group of incoming students since the fall of 2020. At 147, the current class represents a 29% increase over the fall of 2023. The new class also helped Blackburn achieve its highest overall enrollment since 2020. This significant growth underscores the increasing recognition of Blackburn's unique approach to higher education, where students develop essential leadership, problem-solving, and other highly relevant professional skills while earning their degrees, building resumes full of work experience, and graduating with less debt. "We are excited to welcome this large class to Blackburn and to know that our story and unique approach to higher education is connecting with prospective students and families," said Justin Norwood, Vice President of Inclusive Enrollment and Class of 2004 Blackburn graduate. "Our incoming students come from various backgrounds and regions, and they will contribute so much to our vibrant campus

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SPRINGFIELD – In response to a troubling rise in reported unlicensed dental practices across the state, the Illinois State Dental Society (ISDS) and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations (IDFPR) have joined forces to launch a collaborative campaign urging the public to seek dental care only from licensed dentists. The campaign ‘Fake Dentist, Real Risk – Verify Before You Trust’ aims to educate Illinois residents about the serious dangers posed by unlicensed dentists. It promotes verifying dental licenses and provides easy-to-use tools and resources for reporting unlicensed activities. This initiative comes in response to multiple reports of unlawful dental practices by unlicensed practitioners, which have resulted in harm to patients – from fake braces and chipped teeth to permanent damage and infections. “Unlicensed dental treatments can be very dangerous. They often lead to infections, bad procedures, and permanent damag

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ALTON - The Mississippi Earthtones Festival drew hundreds of people to the riverfront for a day of art, entertainment and environmentalism. From 12–10 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, at the Alton Amphitheater, community members could enjoy vendors, live music, food trucks, art displays and more. The event was hosted by Alton Main Street, the Sierra Club and Jacoby Arts Center. “We've got this dialed in,” said Sara McGibany, executive director of Alton Main Street. “This has been the smoothest setup we've had so far. We were able to expand the number of vendors we were able to accept this year up to 130. We are just already rocking and rolling.” Attendees could participate in art projects and learn more about environmentalism and conservation. The free, family-friendly event commemorated It’s Our River Day, and many attendees were eager to learn more about the Mississippi River. “We try to give a platform for anybody who has any sor

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EDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville Township hosted their tenth annual Touch-A-Truck event. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, at Township Park in Edwardsville, community members could come out to see over 40 trucks and vehicles, including firetrucks, ambulances, police vehicles, buses and a helicopter. Kids could climb into the vehicles, honk the horns, try the sirens and more. “It's been a great day. We’ve had hundreds of kids out here having a blast,” said Edwardsville Township Supervisor Kevin Hall. “The smiles on kids’ faces, that’s why we do it. Seeing them, all ages, just loving it, honking the horns, eating the treats, everything.” People came from around the Metro East area and across the river to attend the event. Hall said they gave out 500 goodie bags. He noted that while the Touch-A-Truck event is fun, it’s also a chance to educate kids. If a child ever has to ride in an ambulance, for example, hopefully

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EDWARDSVILLE - A crash on Friday, Sept. 20, 2021, at Illinois Route 157 and Lewis Road in Edwardsville damaged overhead lines and caused traffic disruption, Edwardsville Police said. "While there were no injuries reported, the disruption led to lane restrictions in the affected area," the police said. "Police and fire personnel managed the situation and worked to restore normal conditions." Lane restrictions were in place while police and fire personnel dealt with the situation. Witnesses said a dump truck was involved in the crash and didn't have its bed completely lowered and struck the lines. Edwardsville Police also issued a quick reminder: "If you encounter a nonfunctioning stoplight, treat it as a four-way stop."

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ALTON - A vacant duplex in the 800 block of Park Drive in Alton was fully engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived at 4 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024. The fire resulted in a total loss of the structure and will be under investigation by the State Fire Marshal. Alton Deputy Fire Chief Matt Fischer said when Alton Fire Department crews arrived, the fire had already spread through the roof and involved the entire house. The East Alton Fire Department was also called to the scene. Firefighters faced a close exposure threat to a neighboring house to the north, where siding melted from the intense heat. "We were able to stop the fire from spreading to the next-door house," said the deputy chief. "We managed to save the neighboring property." Due to the extent of the blaze, firefighting efforts were concentrated on exterior attacks, given the dangerous conditions inside the structure. The deputy chief said the fire was brought under control by 6 a.m. Saturday. There were no utilities

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY - On Friday, September 20, 2024, the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office issued charges on suspect Cejay Young, 31 years of age, of the 1500 block of Towne Drive in Ballwin, Missouri 63011, for one count of Kidnapping - First Degree; one count of Assault - Second Degree; two counts of Armed Criminal Action; one count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon; one count of Robbery - First Degree; and one count of Burglary - First Degree. A booking photo of Young is attached. Young is being held without bond. Please note, charges are merely an accusation, and Defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law. The probable cause statement reads: On September 12, 2024, at the 19300 block of Babler Forrest Drive, the Defendant is let in the Victim's residence by an acquaintance of the Victim. On September 13, 2024, Victim notices that his credit cards and 100 dollars cash was missing from his wallet. Then later September 13, 2024, the

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ALTON - Challenge Unlimited is proud to welcome back Brigadier General James Porter, Vice President of Operations, following his recent return from an overseas mission supporting Security Assistance Group Ukraine. General Porter, who has been serving our nation abroad, returned in August 2024 and brings with him a renewed sense of pride and commitment to both his country and the Challenge Unlimited team. In his role as Vice President of Operations at Challenge Unlimited, General Porter has been instrumental in overseeing the daily functions that support individuals with disabilities in securing meaningful employment and fostering independence. His leadership and service have not only strengthened the organization but also reaffirmed the values of dedication, resilience, and service that Challenge Unlimited holds dear. Upon his return, CEO, Charlotte Hammond, presented General Porter with an honorary United States Flag, made by individuals with disabilities in the AbilityOne Program

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CARLINVILLE - Macoupin County Safe Families will host its second annual Domestic Violence Awareness Walk to share support for survivors of domestic violence. On Oct. 5, 2024, community members are invited to Carlinville Market Days, where Macoupin County Safe Families will have a booth and resources available. The program and State’s Attorney Jordan J. Garrison will deliver remarks at 9 a.m., and the walk itself will start at 10 a.m. The event is completely free to participants. “It's a time to come together and support the community in a healthy, positive way,” said Juliet Wooldridge, domestic violence advocate. “It’s really important because not only does it provide awareness of what we do, but it also shows that there is support within the community.” Wooldridge explained that the program hosts an event every October to commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This year’s walk is free to attend and aims to raise awareness

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JERSEY COUNTY – Jersey County State’s Attorney Ben Goetten announced on Sept. 17, 2024, that felony charges have been filed against Robert B. Kallal, 58, of Dow, and Rusty C. Young, 64, of Alton, for knowingly producing cannabis plants, a Class 2 felony. The charges stem from an investigation by the Jersey County Sheriff’s Office. According to Goetten, the investigation led to the surveillance of a cannabis field in rural Jersey County near Dow, where Kallal and Young were observed. On Sept. 14, 2024, deputies from the Jersey County Sheriff’s Office arrested the two men and seized approximately 140 cannabis plants from the field. Jersey County Sheriff Nick Manns emphasized the legal restrictions surrounding cannabis cultivation in Illinois. "Growing cannabis remains illegal in Illinois except under very specific conditions involving the very small amounts set forth in Illinois statutes," Manns said. Both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty

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EDWARDSVILLE – Fire Chief James Whiteford, who has been a full-time member of the Edwardsville Fire Department for 28 years, announced on Friday, September 20, that he plans to retire next month to spend more time with his family. Whiteford’s final day on the job will be Friday, October 11. “It has been a true honor to work with such a dedicated and caring group of people,” Whiteford said. “Working for the Edwardsville Fire Department has been one of the greatest parts of my life. It’s no accident that Edwardsville has such a good fire department. Over the years, City leaders have had the foresight to make public safety a priority and this forward vision is largely responsible for the top-notch fire, rescue and emergency medical services we provide. This Fire Department has a dedicated group of hard-working people who really care about the community. These are some of the finest paramedics and firefighters in the area, and having a chance to lead the

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EDWARDSVILLE — 1818 Offshore, a popular seafood restaurant located at 210 South Buchanan in Edwardsville has announced it will close its doors this fall as its lease comes to an end. The restaurant, known for its oysters and crab dishes, has been a staple in the community, bringing joy to its patrons and providing numerous job opportunities over the years. In a heartfelt message to its patrons, the restaurant expressed deep gratitude for the support it has received. "Your unwavering presence and the laughs we shared made a world of difference," the statement read. "Your support has been instrumental in our journey, and we are deeply appreciative of it." The exact timeline for the closure is not yet finalized, but the restaurant anticipates shutting down within the next two and a half months. During this period, the 1818 Offshore family plans to say their goodbyes and cherish the memories made in their original "home" at Park Plaza. "We will miss our oyster aficionados stopping

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EDWARDSVILLE – Voters in Madison County will soon cast their ballots using a new secure paper-based voting system. Madison County selected to update their system with new Election Systems & Software (ES&S) after a comprehensive review of alternate available systems. It was determined that the ES&S system provides a fully auditable voting solution that is accurate, secure and accessible to all voters. Just as importantly, both models of equipment purchased are easy for both election judges and election officials to navigate and manage. The new scanners enhance security and improve the efficiency of the results reporting process. The new technology uses voter-verifiable paper ballots, allowing for fully auditable election results. The ExpressVote universal voting system replaces the past Automark and uses touch-screen technology to produce a paper ballot, allowing voters to review their selections and verify that their vote was recorded accurately before submitting for

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COLLINSVILLE - Collinsville Police Department Support Services Supervisor Andrea Lindauer has been honored with the Illinois Public Safety Telecommunications Association (IPSTA) Frontline Supervisor of the Year award. The announcement recognizes Lindauer for her exceptional contributions to public safety communications in her role with the Collinsville Police Department. The IPSTA award is presented to a supervisor who demonstrates high professional and moral conduct, integrity, and respect among co-workers and supervisors. The award also highlights outstanding performance, foresight, skill, and the ability to provide valuable communication services while managing public safety communications. Lindauer's recognition underscores her importance to both the department and the city. Her colleagues describe her as "a tremendous asset, acknowledging her dedication to the department, the city, and its residents." The award serves as a testament to Lindauer's commitment to excellence in

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GRANITE CITY – Alfresco Productions proudly presents Legally Blonde the Musical , coming to the stage this November for two weekends only! Audiences will be dazzled by this energetic, hilarious, and heartwarming production of the hit musical based on the beloved movie. Directed by Eric Sykes, the show promises to be a spectacular evening of theater, full of vibrant choreography, catchy songs, an empowering message, and of course, lots of PINK! Legally Blonde follows the journey of Elle Woods, a determined young woman who, after being dumped by her boyfriend, enrolls in Harvard Law School to win him back but discovers her own strength along the way. The show’s mix of humor, heart, strong female lead and a dynamic ensemble will leave audiences inspired and entertained. Eric Sykes, the director, shares his excitement: "This show is pure joy from start to finish! I’m thrilled to work with such a talented cast and to bring Elle’s story to life. We can’t wai

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O'FALLON, Ill. – Hinchcliffe Elementary School saw a robust turnout for its inaugural garden club meeting recently, with 78 children participating in the event. The gathering, part of the O'Fallon Community Consolidated School District #90, provided students with the opportunity to engage with nature in an outdoor classroom setting. The young participants spent the evening learning about various aspects of gardening, discussing different plant species, and interacting with the natural environment. The hands-on experience aimed to foster a deeper appreciation for nature among the students. The garden club is designed to provide students with practical knowledge about gardening, while also promoting teamwork and outdoor activity. The initiative is part of the school district’s broader efforts to incorporate more experiential learning opportunities into the curriculum. Parents and teachers alike expressed their satisfaction with the turnout and the level of engagement from

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FAIRMONT CITY - Molina Healthcare of Illinois (“Molina”) is partnering with PBS KIDS (WSIU) and the Fairmont City Library Center to host a fun family reading event celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. “Reading with Molina” will feature story time, Hispanic Heritage Month themed activities, and craft time. Additionally, every child in attendance will receive a free book for bilingual readers and an activity to take home. While proficiency in language arts for students in Illinois has improved to 35%, proficiency remains below pre-pandemic levels. Reading proficiency statistics are even worse among Illinois’ minority and low-income students, with only 17% of Hispanic third graders reading at grade level on the Illinois Assessment of Readiness in 2023. Through this event series, Molina hopes to instill a love of reading in Illinois’ youth as part of their mission to build stronger communities, one life at a time. WHAT: Molina Healthcare

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WEST ALTON, MO – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Rivers Project Office is announcing its first Annual Deer Hunt for Mobility-Impaired Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces , in cooperation with the Olin Veterans Network and MO Vets Outdoors. The hunt will be held December 13th and 14th, 2024, with a hunt overview and meal provided on December 13th at 10 A.M. Applications are available at the Rivers Project Office and are due by October 9th, 2024. Applications may be dropped off to the Rivers Project Office at 301 Riverlands Way, West Alton, MO 63386 or submitted via by email to Josh Pierce at Joshua.D.Pierce@USACE.Army.Mil . This hunt will allow for archery antlerless-only harvest only. Permits will not be provided. Hunters must provide their own Missouri hunting permits and archery equipment to legally and ethically harvest an antlerless whitetail in the state of Missouri during the 2024/2025 archery season. Proper licensing/permitting and equipment will be inspected

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WOOD RIVER - Wood River Main Street will host its Concert in the Park and Food Truck Festival this weekend. From 6–8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, community members can enjoy music by Trent Thrun and Matt Gadeken at the Central Park Bandstand in Wood River. The event is free and open to the public. Concessions will be available for purchase, or you can bring your own food and drinks. “It’s not a stuffy thing or anything like that. It’s just bringing a lawn chair, bringing a blanket, chill out,” said Kristen Burns, director of Wood River Main Street. “We’re really excited.” Friday’s free Concert in the Park event is the first in a series that will continue through October. Each concert will spotlight musicians who have played at Wood River’s farmers’ market this summer. Burns is especially excited for Thrun and Gadeken to perform, as they have been popular at the market these past few months. “They’re

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ALTON - The Hayner Public Library District has several exciting events planned for the next few weeks, including a ghost hunt in the library. Hayner will be at the Mississippi Earthtones Festival from 12–6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024. Morgan Berry and Lacy McDonald will be signing people up for library cards and helping kids complete a craft. They’ll also share a few examples from their Library of Things , including the popular ghost-hunting kit. “I’ve had lots of fun with the ghost-hunting kit, even in the library,” Berry said. She is especially looking forward to the “Haunted Hayner: History and Hauntings” event planned for 7 p.m. on Oct. 2, 2024. This event will discuss the history of Hayner and some of the hauntings that have been reported in the buildings. Hayner has partnered with Alton Odyssey Tours to co-host the event. Attendees will start in the Genealogy and Local History Library. They will use the ghost-hunting

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