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EDWARDSVILLE - Senior forward Kaylea Lacey, who's been a major part of the Alton high girls basketball team for multiple seasons, is still a key to the Redbirds as they seek to go to the IHSA Class 4A state finals in March in Bloomington-Normal. Lacey played a guiding role in the Redbirds' finish last year at 32-3, losing in the super-sectional game to Aurora Waubonsie Valley and Alton is off to a blazing 13-1 start under head coach Deserea Howard in the 2024-2025 campaign. The Redbirds proved to many observers so far this season that Alton is still a very good girls' team even without all-everything point guard Kiyoko Proctor, who has now returned to the lineup after a knee injury forced her out of action for the first part of the season. Proctor was still on the sidelines in her captain role encouraging and helping all the girls around her. Lacey is an Auto Butler Female Athlete of the Month for the Redbirds for her efforts with Alton this year. "We're definitely building chemistry,

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ST. LOUIS - The City of St. Louis is preparing for its first major winter storm of the season as the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Winter Storm Watch for the City of St. Louis beginning Saturday, January 4 at 6:00 p.m. City agencies join NWS in urging residents to take precautions and preventive measures to protect themselves and their families during extreme conditions. The City of St. Louis will see heavy mixed precipitation, including a potential total of sleet and snow between five and 10 inches and ice accumulations between two and three-tenths of an inch. Forecasted temperatures will then drop to highs in the teens and 20s and lows in the single digits for the next several days. Residents and visitors should stay informed to make any necessary adjustments to travel plans and follow local media, the City’s website , and City Emergency Management (CEMA) social media alerts for information, resources and updates. Residents should also sign up for the City’s

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O’FALLON — HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital proudly welcomed Sevin Le’andre Rucker as the first baby born at the hospital in 2025. He arrived at 4:42 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, weighing 5 pounds, 14.5 ounces and was 19 inches long. Sevin’s proud parents are Deshaun Crockett and Quinton Rucker of Collinsville. In celebration of being the first baby born in 2025 at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Sevin and his family were presented with a basket of gifts from the Women and Infants Center including baby blankets, bibs, pacifier holder, socks for mom and sweet treats. For others expecting in 2025, St. Elizabeth’s offers a wide range of services for mothers and infants, including tours, prenatal classes, and recently expanded available services by launching an Obstetric Emergency Department (OB ED) for pregnant patients facing pregnancy concerns or a pregnancy or postpartum-related medical emergency, along with adding an OB/Gyn Hospitalist program.

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ALTON — The 12th Night of Christmas Bonfire in Middletown has been rescheduled to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, at Haskell Park, moving up from its original date of Jan. 6 due to an unfavorable weather forecast. Molly Bailey, a coordinator of the event, noted that the decision to change the date was made in light of the expected snow and ice storm Sunday and Monday. "It didn’t sound good," Bailey said, referring to the weather forecast for the two days. "Instead of canceling, we decided to bump it up two days to try to beat the incoming weather." The bonfire, organized by Middletown Neighbors, is set to feature carols, cookies, wassail, and the traditional bonfire, which will be lit by the Alton Fire Department around 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. The event will last approximately one hour and is open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring live tree donations for the bonfire, which can be placed at the park on the 12th and Henry side in Alton. Volunteers are also

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ALTON - The Alton Public Works Department is preparing for the winter storm event coming into our area this weekend. The forecast has changed and will continue to do so until the storm arrives. "Please be aware that our crews will focus on clearing the main routes through town first before touching any side streets," the department said in a statement. A couple tips to ensure both your safety and that of City of Alton snow plow drivers, please remember and practice the following tips: · If possible, avoid travel. · Don't follow too closely behind a snowplow; follow at a safe distance, stay at least 200 feet behind it. Do not attempt to overtake, as the road behind the plow is likely to be safer than the road ahead. · If you must get around the plow, do so with great caution and NEVER pass a snowplow on the right. Don’t assume the plow operator can see you. · Be aware of where snowplows are. If a plow truck approaches you, maintain your current

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ALTON - Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau , the Audubon Center at Riverlands and the National Great Rivers Museum are gearing up for the annual Eagle Ice Festival. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, community members are encouraged to enjoy the free Eagle Ice Festival, complete with activities, crafts and eagle meet-and-greets. Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau will host people at FLOCK Food Truck Park, while the Audubon Center and National Great Rivers Museum will welcome folks to their locations for additional free activities. “You can go to all three occasions and enjoy our different activities at each site throughout the day,” explained Emily Connor, education manager at the Audubon Center. “It is a really special time for our region to get to see all these birds migrating through the winter and meeting in this confluence area of the rivers.” Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Great

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EDWARDSVILLE - The City Of Edwardsville Public Works Department on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, reports it is actively monitoring the forecast ahead of the predicted winter storm. "We are prepared and stocked with salt, trucks and other supplies as the first big snowstorm of the winter approaches," the Public Works Department said in a statement. "Our crews will be out salting and plowing as soon as possible as road conditions necessitate. For public safety, we’ll prioritize the City’s main roads to ensure our police and fire departments can safely respond and travel during emergency situations. Side streets, arterial and collector routes that serve higher traffic are the next priority, followed by subdivisions and residential areas." The Public Works Department said if you can avoid or limit travel during this winter weather event, please do so. "If you must be on the roads, please be patient, cautious and leave plenty of space between your vehicle and others on the road. It’s

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GRANITE CITY – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that as part of ongoing efforts to replace the Interstate 270 bridges between Illinois 3 and Riverview Drive in Missouri, a stage change is scheduled to take place on I-270 starting at noon on Friday, Jan. 3. To facilitate the stage change, westbound I-270 traffic will be shifted to the new south span using a temporary crossover just west of the Canal Bridge. Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction while the shift occurs. By 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4, all four lanes are expected to reopen on the new south span with the new traffic pattern in place. The new configuration will allow eastbound and westbound traffic to use the new south bridge while the adjacent structure is built over the next two years. As the I-270 project continues, the public should expect lane shifts, overnight lane closures and delays. Drivers are urged to allow extra time for trips through this area, pa

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GODFREY - Mayor Mike McCormick, Chris Sichra (Emergency Coordinator), Jim Lewis (Public Service Director), and Lieutenant Bobby Weller (and his Madison County Deputies) will swing into action should an unforeseen emergency happen. Still, there are almost 7,500 households in Godfrey. Odds are they won’t be focused specifically on yours — just sayin’. What plans do you have to take care of your family in a significant disruption? Each family should be thinking about what their needs would be during a disruption. Let’s take a look at some basic things to have ready if something bad happens. The following information offers some guidance. The government recommends being able to be self-sufficient for a minimum of three days. If you could not leave your house for three days, does your home become a fortress or a prison? Much of that depends upon decisions that you make in advance. Now, if the electricity stays on, things will likely be tolerable. If the electricity

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ALTON — Alton Little Theater is set to move forward with its production of "The Exes," originally scheduled for January 24th to February 2nd, following a donation commitment from local businessman Eddie Sholar and his company Village Dispensary and Berco Construction of West Alton to complete necessary repairs promptly. The decision to proceed with the show comes after Sholar pledged to expedite the repairs, ensuring that the theater will be ready to welcome patrons for seven performances. The repairs will include the addition of nine new restrooms, enhancing the overall experience for attendees. Eric Sykes, the new executive director, Lee Cox and the theater's board expressed gratitude for the community's support during a challenging period. “It has been a confusing time for ALT patrons and Board of Directors alike,” Sykes said. “But with Mr. Sholar's firm commitment to ALT late yesterday, we decided, ‘Why wait until March? Let’s go for it!’”

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GODFREY - Gerard Fischer stopped by “Our Daily Show!” with CJ Nasello to talk about his candidacy for Village of Godfrey trustee. Fischer owns a local American Family insurance business and previously served on the Godfrey Fire Protection District board. He explained that his term with the Fire Protection District ended, and he was eager to “shift gears and stay in the political world” by running for a trustee seat within Godfrey. “I need more to do. My plate is empty,” Fischer joked. “Let’s move forward and keep it growing.” Fischer believes Mayor Mike McCormick “has done a great job,” and he’s eager to support the Village’s growth in the trustee role. He wants to see Godfrey continue to expand, pointing to the Top Shelf Liquor construction as evidence that Godfrey is growing. “I’m just looking to continue the path that is taken now,” Fischer explained. “You’ve

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EAST ST. LOUIS – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced lanes will be restricted on eastbound Interstate 55/64 over Trendley Avenue in East St. Louis on Friday, Jan. 3, and Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, weather permitting. The eastbound right through lane will be closed. The restrictions are needed for bridge deck repairs. Full access will be restored as soon as possible. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changing conditions and all detour signs prior to the work zone, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com .

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Shoveling snow is a common winter task, but it can be physically demanding and pose serious health risks, especially for those with heart conditions. Cold weather and strenuous activity increase the strain on your heart, so taking precautions is essential to ensure safety. Why Shoveling Snow Can Be Dangerous Cold Weather Effects : The cold air causes blood vessels to constrict, raising blood pressure and increasing the risk of heart attack. Strenuous Activity : Lifting heavy, wet snow can strain your heart, especially if you’re not used to vigorous exercise. Quick Heart Rate Increase : Many people underestimate the effort required, leading to overexertion in a short period. Precautions to Take Before You Shovel Check Your Health : If you have a history of heart problems or feel unwell, consult a doctor before shoveling snow. Dress Appropriately : Wear warm, layered clothing to maintain body heat and reduce the impact of cold air on your heart. Cover your mouth

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ST. LOUIS — A winter storm is set to impact the area beginning early Sunday morning, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain that could create hazardous travel conditions. According to Matt Beitscher, the lead meteorologist with the National Weather Service in St. Louis, the forecast predicts varying ice and snow precipitation across the region. In northern parts of the St. Louis metro area, including Calhoun, Jersey, and northern Madison County, snowfall totals could reach between 6 to 12 inches, with the potential for higher amounts in Jersey County. Beitscher said the I-70 corridor is expected to experience a transition zone, where precipitation may shift primarily to sleet, potentially resulting in total accumulations of 6 to 8 inches if the transition occurs further south. Closer to downtown St. Louis, snow totals are projected to be between 5 to 10 inches, while areas along the I-64 corridor in Illinois may see similar outcomes. Beitscher noted that outside of

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GRANITE CITY - A Collinsville resident was arrested after fleeing the scene of a Granite City burglary and theft before entering a “standoff with law enforcement” resulting in shots fired. Brian S. Kite, 32, of Collinsville, was charged on Dec. 27, 2024 with residential burglary (a Class 1 felony), offenses related to motor vehicles (a Class 2 felony), and unlawful possession of weapons by a felony (a Class 3 felony). Kite allegedly entered a Granite City residence without authority, intending to commit a theft on Dec. 22, 2024. He also reportedly stole a 2003 Dodge Dakota and was found unlawfully in possession of a Glock 22 handgun as a felon previously convicted of burglary in 2016. According to a petition to deny Kite’s pretrial release, the victim in this case told authorities Kite entered their residence and stole a firearm safe. Madison County Sheriff’s deputies reviewed video from the burglary scene and identified the suspect’s vehicle, which

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BRIGHTON - A convicted felon from Brighton faces new charges after pointing a firearm during an argument with his roommate. Joshua R. Hicks, 38, of Brighton, was charged with unlawful possession of weapons by a felon (a Class 3 felony) and aggravated assault (a Class A misdemeanor). On Dec. 22, 2024, Hicks allegedly possessed a 9mm semi-automatic handgun which was unlawful for him to possess, as he had previously been convicted of burglary in a 2008 case from Washington Parish, La. “Multiple witnesses reported that defendant brandished a firearm in the course of an argument with his roommate, then pointing the weapon at the victim,” the petition states. “Defendant is currently on pretrial release.” The Madison County Sheriff’s Office acted as the arresting agency in this case. Hicks was ordered remanded to jail for his initial court appearance, but is not currently being held in custody. The issuance of charges is based solely upon probable

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ALTON - The Alton Committee of the Whole is set to consider allocating $661,174 in grant funds to help cover various services and projects throughout the city. A resolution to approve the Fiscal Year 2024 budget allocation of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding appears on the agenda for the committee’s next meeting, which has been rescheduled due to hazardous weather conditions expected on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Instead, the committee will meet on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, at 6 p.m. Avoid a treacherous drive to City Hall by catching the meeting live on Riverbender.com/video or the Riverbender.com Facebook page . The resolution sets seven different areas to allocate the funding, ranging from public facilities to residential rehab and more. The largest amount would be allocated towards “Public Facilities,” which would see $330,000 set aside for “Section 108 Project” funds. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Developmen

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EAST ST. LOUIS - The identities of two men fatally shot at the John DeShields Housing Projects have been released by authorities. Deron E. Baker, 57, and Kaven R. Gathing, 59, both residents of the complex, were pronounced dead from gunshot wounds at 12:45 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025. East St. Louis police, along with the Illinois State Police, responded to a report of the shooting in the 1200 block of McCasland Avenue at approximately 11:41 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025. Upon arrival, officers discovered the victims inside a residence. St. Clair County Coroner Calvin Dye, Sr. confirmed that both men were pronounced dead at the scene. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, as police have not disclosed any information regarding a potential motive. The investigation is still in its preliminary stages, according to a statement from the Illinois State Police. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

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In our fast-paced world filled with constant distractions and overwhelming demands, the concept of mindfulness has emerged as a beacon of hope for many seeking mental clarity and emotional stability. Mindfulness, the practice of being fully present and engaged in the current moment without judgment, can significantly enhance our well-being, productivity, and interpersonal relationships. This article delves into the fundamentals of mindfulness, its benefits, practical techniques, and how it can be integrated into daily life. Understanding Mindfulness Mindfulness has its roots in ancient Buddhist meditation practices but has gained widespread acceptance in the West over the past few decades. At its core, mindfulness encourages individuals to observe their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations without rushing to judge or react. This simple yet profound practice allows individuals to foster a deeper understanding of themselves and their experiences. Key Principles of Mindfulness

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On January 3rd, a multitude of significant events have shaped our world across various domains such as politics, science, and culture. Starting with a major global milestone, on January 3, 1959, Alaska was officially admitted as the 49th state of the United States. This moment marked a significant expansion of the U.S. territory and was a crucial step in the nation’s ongoing evolution. The admission of Alaska not only enriched the country’s natural resources — known for its vast oil reserves and stunning natural beauty — but also reflected the growing importance of the Arctic region in global geopolitics. The state has since played a pivotal role in energy production, environmental discussions, and Indigenous rights, making this day a cornerstone in American history. Moving back to 1938, January 3rd also witnessed a remarkable scientific achievement. On this day, the first synthetic rubber was produced in the United States. Developed during World War II,

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