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GRANITE CITY - Coolidge 8th-grade Special Education Social Studies Teacher Gayla Bennett has been selected as one of Emerson's 2023 Excellence in Teaching Award recipients. Bennett, who is in her 25th year of service in Granite City Community Unit School District #9, all at Coolidge, is among more than 80 teachers from across the St. Louis metropolitan area who are being recognized this year through the program as examples of truly outstanding educational excellence. "What I love most about my job is building bonds with students! 8th grade is such a pivotal year for students, and I love being there to help them through this important time," Bennett said. "My goal in my classroom every year is for students to feel welcome, cared for, and supported. I start day one showing them respect and that I’m on their side." The Emerson Excellence in Teaching Awards, now in its 34th year, is one of the St. Louis region’s most recognized teacher recognition programs. Emerson is prou

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois President Stephen Harris to discuss how the insurance provider can ensure the drug to help prevent RSV in babies is available with no cost-sharing, as well as the Senator’s priorities of reducing negative maternal health outcomes and health inequities, especially for Illinoisans of color and Illinoisans with disabilities, who too often experience barriers to care. “It was good to meet with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and discuss how together, we can work toward a future where more Illinois families can easily access the healthcare they need, when and where they need it,” Duckworth said. “I’ll keep pushing to help make healthcare more accessible and equitable for communities across Illinois.” Duckworth has long been a champion for public health, especially for children. She recently urged America’s Health Insurance Plan

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today sent oversight letters to three companies – DentaQuest, Envolve, and Avesis – that administer dental benefits for Medicaid managed care companies (MCOs) in Illinois to seek answers on barriers to providing dental care to Medicaid enrollees. Durbin’s letters raise concerns and investigate certain insurance practices that can limit and discourage provider participation in Medicaid, which exacerbate existing reimbursement rate challenges, resulting in an estimate of only 24 percent of Illinois dentists accepting Medicaid. As a result, Medicaid enrollees, including children and people with disabilities, have difficulty accessing adequate dental care—often facing extensive wait lists for necessary treatment. “I write today regarding significant challenges that oral health providers are facing in their engagements with Medicaid managed care organizations (MCOs) in Illinois, which is hampering

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BENTON – Mario L. Delgado-Lopez, 42, originally from Puerto Rico, was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison by a U.S. District judge on Nov. 9, 2023. Lopez was apprehended after a four-year manhunt by federal law enforcement officials. Lopez appeared in court for his sentencing hearing on Nov. 9, 2023, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession of heroin with intent to distribute and possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute in 2018. “The defendant was responsible for trafficking large amounts of illicit narcotics into southern Illinois and then fled the country,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle A. Crowe. “As a fugitive of justice for several years, this federal prison sentence is appropriate for his conduct.” According to court documents, Delgado-Lopez admitted to federal charges for conspiring with codefendants to distribute more than 850 grams of fentanyl and more than 550 grams of heroin in

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O'FALLON - On Nov. 15, 1978, Sam and Muggs Andria opened their doors to Andria’s Steakhouse. The three-bedroom New England-style home, nestled away on four acres with the listing touting central air conditioning and a full basement, now reflects the legendary Andria’s Steakhouse. Today the restaurant embodies the same location, same hospitality, and the familiarity of community and people that you will always know by name. Over the last four decades the Kenison family has worked hard to live up to the legacy that Sam and Muggs took a risk starting. “Over the years we have sacrificed a lot of missed family activities, social obligations, and conflicting commitments. But one thing is certain, we have gained more than we sacrificed. Each day I’ve poured my heart and soul into the pride and joy that I shared with Sam and Muggs surrounding fine-dining, quality food, and Southern Illinois hospitality,” said Larry Kenison, son-in-law to Sam and Muggs Andria. “Since

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ALTON - Unity in the Community, Millennium Temple, CLB Foundation along with Fourth Ward Alderwoman Rosetta Brown and volunteers will be serving free Thanksgiving dinners from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov 18, 2023, at Millineum Temple Church, 801 Blair, Alton, while supplies last. "This is a continuation of how we love our community and support it with our own funds, Brown said. Brown stressed the public is welcome for the event. "If you see a homeless person, please let them know," Brown said.

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EAST ST. LOUIS – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging an area woman for dealing a lethal dose of fentanyl, leading a man to overdose and die. Tessa R. Webber, 25, of Collinsville, is charged with one count of distribution of a controlled substance: fentanyl resulting in death. “Too many lives are lost due to drug-induced homicides,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “Law enforcement agencies are working to secure justice for families of overdose victims.” According to court documents, the Fairview Heights Police Department began investigating a suspected fatal drug overdose on June 11. Discovered by a roommate, a man was found deceased near drug paraphernalia, and the victim’s family confirmed he had a history of substance abuse. “Collaboration between the Fairview Heights Police Department, DEA and the U.S. Attorney’s Office enabled law enforcement to bring just a little bit of justice to the victim’s family,”

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WEST ALTON - The US Army Corps of Engineers, Rivers Project Office, will temporarily close the parking lot for Teal Pond, located within the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary, for necessary improvements being made to the Teal Pond levee. This closure will begin immediately and last through December 29 th . While Teal Pond remains open for fishing and foot traffic, please refrain from fishing or walking along the levee until improvements are completed. For more information, please contact the Rivers Project Office at 636-899-2600.

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DECATUR, Ill. - State Representative Dan Caulkins (R-Decatur) has petitioned the Supreme Court of the United States to review the Illinois Supreme Court’s decision on Illinois’ weapons ban law on due process, equal protection, and Second Amendment grounds. At issue is the denial of due process under the 14 th Amendment arising from Justices Elizabeth Rochford and Mary Kay O’Brien participating in the case despite overwhelming reasons they should have recused themselves. Both justices received disproportionate contributions from the leaders of the co-equal branches of government in the aggregate sum of more than $2.5 million calling into question their impartiality and independence. Both Justices reportedly committed to the outcome for an assault weapon ban during their respective campaigns joined by the Defendants which contributes to the denial of due process right to a fair hearing. Specifically, both justices received the endorsement of G-PAC, which states: “Eac

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WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) issued the following statement regarding his vote against a continuing resolution that funds the government at current levels into the first two months of next year without any spending cuts or new border security funding: "At a time when American families are fighting to make ends meet, I can’t justify voting for the status quo on government spending. We need to get serious about cutting wasteful spending and dedicate those precious resources to securing the border. If that doesn’t happen, then I won’t hesitate to stand up to either party in Washington to do what’s right for Southern Illinois.”

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GREENVILLE - Mark your calendar for three upcoming musical concerts and celebrate the joyous sounds of the holiday season at Greenville University. On Tuesday, November 28, the GU Jazz Band, under the direction of Nicholas Pyles, will present "Evening by the Fireplace." Gather friends and family and come in from the cold for holiday favorites and smooth jazz arrangements. Guest vocalist Dr. Grace Denton joins the performance for such Christmas classics as "White Christmas," "Santa Baby," "Christmas Time is Here," and more. This concert will be the jazz band's first of the season and its premiere under the baton of director Pyles. The band consists of 13 members, including two from the local community. The concert starts at 7 pm in the Whitlock Music Center recital hall. The concert is free and open to the public. On Sunday, December 3, The Greenville Choral Union and Orchestra will present its 93rd performance of George Frederic Handel's oratorio "Messiah" at 4 pm in the Whitlock

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SPRINGFIELD - Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera and Illinois Finance Authority (IFA) Executive Director Chris Meister issued nearly $7.2 million in no-interest or low-interest loans to emergency responders across the state. The loans are made available through the Fire Truck Revolving Loan Program and Ambulance Revolving Loan Program. “Our emergency responders put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe, and they need safe and reliable vehicles to get the job done,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “That’s why I’m proud that my administration is ensuring that fire departments across the state can purchase the fire trucks and ambulance they need to save lives.” “Without programs such as our Fire Truck and Ambulance Revolving Loan, many departments would have to continue to repair vehicles that are not reliable anymore and never be able to afford a new fire truck or ambulance,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today on the Senate floor joined members of the Senate Democratic Caucus in opposing U.S. Senator Roger Marshall’s (R-KS) request for unanimous consent (UC) to pass House Republicans’ partisan aid package, which includes funding for Israel but neglects to support Ukraine in its efforts to stave off Putin’s unrelenting attacks and conditions support for Israel by offsetting other federal funding. In his remarks, Durbin emphasized his support for passing security funding for Israel while reminding his colleagues that Ukraine is in dire need of its allies’ support. “I understand the concerns raised by my colleague from Kansas. I share many of them,” said Durbin. “We have all seen the horrifying videos and images, the scenes of death and destruction perpetrated by Hamas terrorists from October 7, the deadliest single day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. We all know that

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WOOD RIVER - Wood River Police Chief Brad Wells said late Tuesday night that a pedestrian was struck in the 1700 block of Vaughn Road in Wood River. Chief Wells said the pedestrian was hit Tuesday evening, Nov. 14, 2023, by a vehicle traveling eastbound. He added that the individual who was struck by the vehicle had been taken by ambulance from the scene with injuries. The chief was not able to yet release any other details about the accident.

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PONTOON BEACH — To celebrate the 138 miles of MCT Trails, and to bring public art into our communities, Madison County Transit (MCT) and Agency for Community Transit (ACT) are pleased to announce the installation of six out of eight large-scale "Trail Critter" sculptures along the MCT Trails, as part of the newly launched “Art on the Trails” initiative. Created by the talented Texas-based artist Jeffie Brewer, these captivating sculptures are crafted from durable 10-gauge steel, ensuring longevity, weather resistance, and minimal maintenance requirements. The "Trail Critter" sculptures are a generous gift to the community from ACT, designed to enhance the visual appeal of the MCT Trails while fostering a sense of playfulness and creativity. The vibrant and whimsical sculptures are strategically placed in highly visible locations, providing a delightful contrast to the natural greens and browns of the MCT Trails. The intention is to engage trail users of all ages

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EDWARDSVILLE - For the 10 th year in a row, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville received the 2023 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education. As a recipient of the annual HEED Award—a national honor recognizing U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion—SIUE is featured, along with 108 other recipients, in the November/December 2023 issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. “The HEED Award process consists of a comprehensive and rigorous application that includes questions relating to the recruitment and retention of students and employees — and best practices for both — leadership support for diversity, campus culture and climate, supplier diversity, and many other aspects of campus diversity and inclusion,” said Lenore Pearlstein, publisher of INSIGHT Into

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JERSEYVILLE - The Jerseyville City Council unanimously passed new zoning regulations for any future medical and/or adult-use cannabis dispensaries in and around the city, as well as any future and current paraphernalia retail establishments. The new regulations forbid cannabis and paraphernalia businesses and facilities from being located within 1,200 feet of a school, church, daycare, or other “sensitive location,” Councilman William Strang said. These regulations apply within city limits as well as the one and one-half mile extra-jurisdictional area around the city, which Strang said essentially forces these businesses to the “outskirts” of town, where they would have to zone the land as either B-2 Business District or M-3 Manufacturing District, Industrial. They would also need to go through the Planning and Zoning Board to apply for a Special Use permit. Strang said he doesn’t expect any new cannabis or paraphernalia businesses to open in or around

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EDWARDSVILLE – The City of Edwardsville is mourning the death of longtime Ward 3 Alderwoman Janet Stack, who retired from the City Council in May at the conclusion of her third term in office. She died Monday, November 13, 2023, at the age of 71. “Janet was gracious and kind, a smart yet compassionate representative of the City and an active participant in the business of governing,” said Mayor Art Risavy, who became an alderman the same year as Mrs. Stack, in 2011. “She was dedicated to making sure she represented the residents of her ward well and she also was just a terrific person.” Mrs. Stack is survived by her husband, Phillip; her two children, Nicholas and Melinda; and other family. Visitation and funeral arrangements are being handled by Weber & Rodney Funeral Home in Edwardsville. The visitation is scheduled for 4-7 p.m. Monday, November 20, at Weber & Rodney. The funeral also will be at the funeral home and is scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday,

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ALTON - Kennedy Smith and his nonprofit Unity in the Community will be hosting a Thanksgiving dinner and several other events as the holiday season approaches. “I rode in on the bus, and just coming through the town of Alton, there are so many people homeless, hungry, and I feel that the community shouldn’t be like that,” Smith said. “It never stops for Unity in the Community. It’s that time of the year that Unity in the Community and a couple of other organizations that I’m partnered with this year, we’re giving back to the community.” From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, community members are invited to gather at Millennium Temple Church of God in Christ , located at 801 Blair Avenue in Alton, for a community Thanksgiving. Smith will be wearing the apron, and he thanks his wife, Tiffany L. Thomas-Smith, and his brother and community partners for supporting the dinner. He named Alderwoman Rosetta Brown, Mayor David

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EDWARDSVILLE – The Edwardsville Police Department has joined the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement to ensure holiday travelers are buckled up and driving sober with a “Click It or Ticket” and “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” Thanksgiving enforcement campaign. The campaign begins this Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, and runs to Monday, Nov. 27, 2023. Edwardsville Police Lt. Bradn Whittaker said no matter how short or long the drive, remember to buckle up and make sure children are in a safe seat." "By buckling up and making a plan for a sober ride home, you help everyone have a safe and happy holiday," he said. "Don’t be the Turkey this Thanksgiving.” The goal of this high-visibility effort is to reduce motor vehicle crashes, injuries and fatalities. Proper seat-belt use is the most effective way to protect vehicle occupants." According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the statewide seat-belt usage rate has room for

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