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GRANITE CITY – A man from Granite City accused of being part of a “street gang” faces felony charges for possessing an illegally modified firearm. Blake A. Giles Jr., 23, of Granite City, was charged on May 15, 2025, with unlawful possession of a firearm by a street gang member and unlawful use of weapons – machine gun, both Class 2 felonies. Giles is accused of being “a member of a street gang” who unlawfully possessed a Glock 21 .45 caliber handgun, which had been illegally modified with a switch to make the weapon fire automatically. He also reportedly had no valid Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card at the time of the offense. According to a petition to deny Giles’s pretrial release from custody, the investigation began after Giles was seen armed with the weapon in a music video on YouTube. “The Venice Police Department received an email directing them to a video posted on YouTube on March 16, 2025,” the petition states.

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ALTON - Alton Main Street’s quarterly information exchange, called “What’s Up Downtown”, will be held on Tuesday, May 20th at 5:30 p.m. at the Riverbender building, located at 200 W. 3rd Street in Alton, Illinois. The public is invited to learn the latest news regarding developments in Alton’s historic downtown district, including updates from new & existing businesses, news on real estate transactions and details of upcoming events and projects. You’ll be in the know on topics from the evening’s featured speakers: Andi Campbell, Deputy Director of Planning & Development, will speak about the City of Alton’s forthcoming comprehensive planning process Scot Heathman, CEO of The Wedge Innovation Center, will present about amenities of this innovation hub and coworking space Hugh Halter will share details of the partnership to bring Good News Brewing microbrews and wood fired pizza to Post Commons Sean and Tish Emerick will announce

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BELLEVILLE - The Belleville Police Department announced the addition of three new officers to its ranks on this week. Officers Poole, Jackson, and Hernandez are set to begin their training at the police academy next week. The Police Department expressed optimism about the new officers' future contributions to both the force and the Belleville community. Belleville Police's move reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen local law enforcement and enhance public safety in the area.

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VIRDEN - Marquette Catholic's 4 x 100 varsity girls relay is state-bound. The four girls - Lilly Hannigan, Tyra Wells, Madison Bassett and Karly Davenport - punched their ticket to Charleston with an amazing 4 x 100 performance in second place with a time of 52.27. The girls competed in the IHSA Riverton Sectional at Virden on Friday. The Explorers were behind only Virden (North Mac's) foursome of Kaelyn Swift, Lakin Whited, Addison Cole and Kiara Sticker, who won with a time of 50.98. The four girls are Tucker's Automotive Repair & Tire Female Athletes of the Month for the Explorers. Marquette Catholic head girls' track and field coach Billy Sprague said: "Seeing Tyra pull up to the gate and get out of the car definitely inspired our relay team. They've had this goal for a long time now and to see it become a reality was an emotional moment for them. I'm so proud of their performance." Tyra Wells had testing she had to take on Friday morning at Marquette, but still managed to make

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GRANITE CITY — The Prather Pre-K/Kindergarten Center sustained damage during a severe storm Friday afternoon, May 16, 2025. District officials communicated with families early Friday evening. In a message sent at 7 p.m., Chris Mitchell, manager of district communications and transportation School District, said local contractors will work throughout the weekend to address the damage and make necessary repairs. Despite the damage, school is planned to proceed as scheduled on Monday. Granite City School officials emphasized that the safety and well-being of students and staff remain the district’s top priority. “We will continue to keep you updated should any changes occur,” Mitchell wrote. “Thank you for your understanding and support as we work through this situation.”

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Video submitted by Pat Harper. GRANITE CITY - Granite City was hit hard during a storm that the National Weather Service in St. Louis said struck just before 3 p.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025. Granite City School District's Manager of Communications and Transportation, Chris Mitchell, issued this statement Friday evening: "Due to the impact of today’s storm, which damaged the scoreboard and speakers at Kevin Greene Field, the Granite City High School Class of 2025 graduation has been postponed. The ceremony has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 17, at 9 a.m. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding." Prather Elementary in Granite City encountered roof damage from the storm and students were detained until the storm had left the area. Stoplights throughout Granite City were down after the storm. Mary Janes Solid Oak Furniture off Chain Of Rocks Road encountered heavy roof damage during the storm. There were several older trees in Wilson Park in Granit

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COLLINSVILLE - Collinsville Police posted information on Friday, May 16, 2025, as part of its Fugitive Friday feature, and this time it was about a warrant for Desiree Mitchell. The Collinsville Police Department said: "Desiree has an active felony warrant after stealing over $10,000 from her employer. If you have any information about her whereabouts, please contact the Collinsville Police Department at 618-344-2131 extension 5209. You can remain anonymous. "Desiree, feel free to turn yourself in to any police department so this matter can be taken care of in court." These charges and statements made herein are based upon probable cause. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

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MARYVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that preliminary work has begun on a $2.2 million project to construct a new roundabout at the intersection of Illinois 162 and Keebler Road. Pre-stage work began earlier this week on the north side of Illinois 162. Once complete, the project will proceed in three stages: Stage I : Keebler Road will close to all traffic and remain closed for the duration of the project. Stage II and III : Illinois 162 will be reduced to one-way traffic, controlled by temporary traffic signals to maintain flow through the work zone. Advance notice of the Keebler Road closure and activation of the temporary signals will be provided via changeable message boards near the project site and through additional announcements. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to choose alternate routes during this time. ? Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert

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GRANITE CITY — The family of Kevin Arthur Ring, a Granite City fast-food worker who was fatally shot on May 16, 2025, is seeking financial assistance to cover burial and funeral costs. Ring, who was employed at the Hardee’s restaurant in Granite City, had recently moved in with his brother. According to a GoFundMe campaign launched by the family, there are currently no funds available to secure a gravesite or pay for funeral expenses. The campaign aims to raise money to ensure Ring receives a dignified burial. Ring’s untimely death has left his family in need of support as they make arrangements during this difficult time. The fundraiser can be found online at https://www.gofundme.com/f/ensure-a-dignified-burial-for-kevin-arthur-ring.

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul charged a Libertyville, Illinois man for allegedly disseminating and possessing child sexual abuse material. The case is part of Raoul’s ongoing work, in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies and local law enforcement officials throughout Illinois, to apprehend offenders who download and trade child sexual abuse material online. The Attorney General’s office charged Kyle Ranallo, 26, in Montgomery County Circuit Court with six Class X felony counts of dissemination of child pornography, punishable by up to 30 years in prison and nine Class 2 counts of possession of child pornography, punishable by up to seven years in prison. Sentences are ultimately determined by the court. Mason is currently detained at the Montgomery County Jail, and his next court date is scheduled for June 13. “Predators who share child sexual abuse material must be held accountable so survivors and their family can begin the healing

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) pressed Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins during a House Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing, raising serious concerns about the Department’s reduction in force, position on collective bargaining rights for employees, and ability to bring the new Electronic Health Record (EHR) system online to VA sites across the country. “Mr. Secretary, when you endorse President Trump's executive order stripping VA employees of their labor rights, I believe you devalue their work. Coupled with a threat of significant staff downsizing, I hear from constituents working at the VA in my district that they have increased fear and stress and there are deep morale issues at the workplace where they believe in the mission of serving our nation's heroes,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. Additionally, Budzinski questioned how the Department plans to successfully implement and expand the new EHR,

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Democrats U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Coons (D-DE), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) in releasing the following statement on President Trump’s trip to the Middle East: “The President’s first extended foreign trip abroad should have been about advancing U.S. interests in the Middle East. Instead, it has been an instructive lesson in how foreign governments can use their influence to benefit the president personally and those around him— all while creating substantial risks to our national security. “The President has failed to engage in substantial dialogue on the most urgent strategic challenges facing the region. His Administration has failed to sustain the ceasefire he inherited in Gaza and has systemically undercut

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, MO. — The St. Louis County Police Department identified Keshon Parker, 21, of Florissant, Mo., as the victim in a homicide that occurred May 14, 2025, in the 1100 block of Rio Street. Police responded at 1:20 p.m. on May 14 to a report of a shooting in the area. Officers found Parker with life-threatening gunshot wounds and transported him to a nearby hospital, where he later died. No suspects are currently in custody. Detectives from the Bureau of Crimes Against Persons are actively investigating the case. Authorities have asked anyone with information to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477), with the possibility of a reward. Additional details will be released as they become available.

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ALTON – An Alton City Council vote on the proposed Lovejoy housing development is on hold once more after council members voted on Wednesday night, May 14, 2025, to lay the item over again. This week, City Council members were set to vote on a previously laid over resolution to consider a planned development at 324 Ridge Street, 650 E. Broadway, and 652 E. Broadway, known as the “Lovejoy” project. The city’s Plan Commission has recommended a negative vote from the City Council; former council members previously laid the item over in an effort to let the newly elected City Council members vote on the project. Multiple representatives from entities involved with the Lovejoy project spoke at Wednesday’s meeting. David Sweeney, an attorney with Lewis Rice, asked the council to lay the item over until a “community meeting” could be held to answer questions from residents and community members. Angie Eslinger, an architect with Lawrence

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ALTON - Adelia Sandifer has been selected as 2025 Student of the Year by the Rotary Club of Alton-Godfrey. At the Scholarship Awards Dinner on Monday, May 12, 2025, Alton High School Assistant Principal, Mike Brey introduced Ade lia, who accepted the $6,000 scholarship, and received a plaque commemorating her award. Adelia's parents are Tim and Susie Sandifer. Adelia spoke to the club, reviewing her achievements while at Alton High School, including one of her favorite projects. During her sophomore year, she noticed that students at the high school were throwing away the fruits that they were required to take with their daily lunches. She organized a program in which the Alton High School cafeteria donates students’ unwanted fruits to local food banks, such as Crisis Food Center. The program has been running for about two years now, and she loves seeing its impact in the lunchroom and the food banks. Another program she has provided at the school is the resource closet. During

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) today led a group of fourteen Senate Democrats in condemning and urging reversal of the Social Security Administration’s recent decision to list certain immigrants as “dead” in the master files. The Senators began by condemning the decision, writing: “We write to strongly object to the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) apparent decision to list living noncitizens as ‘dead’ in the agency’s master files. These arbitrary actions—intended to weaponize Social Security in the Administration’s attack on immigrants—are disgraceful and will erode the integrity of and trust in Social Security.” The Senators then highlighted the departure from previous uses of SSA master files, writing: “SSA collects death records from families, financial institutions, and governmen

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EAST ALTON – Fans of planes and pancakes are invited to a fly-in Pancake Breakfast this weekend hosted by a local chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). The breakfast event is set for this Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 7:30-11:30 a.m. on the Piston Aviation patio at the St. Louis Regional Airport, located at 8 Terminal Drive in East Alton. Visitors can enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, coffee, and juice at reasonable prices: only $10 per adult, $5 for kids ages 4-12, and free for children ages 3 and under. Proceeds will benefit the local EAA chapter and youth aviation education programs. Jan and Randy McKee with EAA Chapter 864 shared more about the event on Our Daily Show! on Riverbender.com . Aviation enthusiasts will get a chance to gather and watch the skies as several pilots are expected to fly in for breakfast – while knowing the proceeds support a great cause. Events like the annual Pancake Breakfast help the EAA fund

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today participated in a Committee hearing entitled “A Review of the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Request for the Department of Transportation.” During the hearing, Durbin questioned U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy about delays in obligating federal funding to Illinois transportation and infrastructure projects, as well as improving transparency over airlines’ frequent flyer programs. Durbin began by speaking about the Chicago Hub Improvement Project (CHIP), which will modernize Chicago Union Station (CUS) by renovating and expanding station platforms, improving passenger capacity, bringing platforms in compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act standards, and improving ventilation systems for nearly 120,000 Amtrak and Metra weekly passengers. In letters to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), Durbin has repeatedly

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WOOD RIVER — Authorities responded to a shooting incident Thursday night at 242 E. Ferguson Ave. in Wood River, resulting in one fatality and the detention of a suspect. At approximately 10:14 p.m. on May 15, 2025, the Wood River Police Department and Fire Department were dispatched following a call for immediate assistance. Upon arrival, officers found an adult male in front of the building who reported that another adult male had been shot behind the building. Emergency personnel located the victim and began life-saving measures. Multiple law enforcement agencies, including East Alton, Bethalto, Hartford, Roxana, South Roxana, and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, assisted in securing the scene. Preliminary investigations identified the man found in front of the building as the individual who discharged the firearm. He was taken into investigative custody without incident. The gunshot victim was transported by ambulance to a hospital in Alton and later airlifted

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STAUNTON - Macoupin County Safe Families will host their annual golf tournament. On June 27, 2025, community members can come out to Timber Lakes Golf Course in Staunton for a golf tournament fundraiser that aims to help survivors of domestic violence. Registration starts at 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. is the shotgun start. There will be a $1,000 shootout winner. “It’s geared around a really fun time going out and golfing and then getting financial support for our program,” explained Juliet Milton, Domestic Violence Advocate Coordinator. “It’s something that people could get together and take the afternoon and morning off to go do something fun while supporting a good organization.” The four-man scramble costs $400 per team of four, and all skill levels are welcome. Skins and mulligans will be available for purchase on the day of the event. There will also be raffle baskets, a 50/50 drawing, a booze cooler and more fun throughout the day. MCSF is

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