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SPRINGFIELD – October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and Illinois Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza is reminding the public to be wary of potentially fraudulent emails, texts and phone calls. The Illinois Office of Comptroller sends out more than 11,000 checks a day, so cybersecurity is a vital component of daily operations. The public also needs to make sure they are constantly on the lookout for attempts to steal their personal data. “These scams used to be easier to spot because of poor grammar and obviously bogus looking messages,” said Comptroller Mendoza. “But with the explosion of AI technology, it’s getting harder and harder to discern what’s legit and what’s fake.” There are several ways con artists are trying to lure people into giving up their personal information and ultimately their hard-earned money: Phishing: Phishing occurs when cybercriminals use emails to try and get people to divulge information that could lead to

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ALTON - Crystal L. Freytag, 39, of Alton, was arrested and charged with one count of aggravated battery/use of deadly weapon and one count of domestic battery with bodily harm following an incident on September 25, 2025. According to charging documents, Freytag allegedly struck the victim with a vehicle, causing injury. It also states that Freytag knowingly caused bodily harm to a man from a prior relationship. The incident occurred in Macoupin County, and the Macoupin County Sheriff's Department is handling the case. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker has proclaimed October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month in Illinois, and the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) is encouraging residents to take advantage of free tools and resources to protect themselves online. “As Governor, my top priority is to protect the people of Illinois — and that includes keeping Illinoisans safe from new and emerging cyber threats,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I am proud to once again designate October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month, bringing attention to the importance of online safety and further protecting our state. Whether it’s the evolving threats in our rapidly changing digital landscape or everyday safety measures, this month is about equipping Illinoisans with the knowledge, tools, and safeguards they need to safely navigate digital spaces.” Recognizing the critical importance of cybersecurity, state officials are committed to providing the necessary

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today, as part of a coalition of 16 attorneys general, submitted comments opposing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) proposal to limit international students to a fixed four-year visa period and restrict their ability to transfer schools or change academic programs. “Welcoming international students to our colleges and universities creates a more enriching educational environment for all students,” Raoul said. “The Trump administration’s proposal would harm our institutions of higher education and our economy. I join my fellow attorneys general in opposing these overly restrictive requirements that would unnecessarily burden international students and ultimately make our country less competitive on the global stage.” Nationally, only 34% of all college students complete their undergraduate degrees within four years. Graduate and doctoral programs often require seven or more years to complet

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ROCK ISLAND, Ill. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in collaboration with state and federal partners, announces the launch of the Mississippi & Illinois River Experience Tool, a new initiative to gather public input to inform future restoration efforts under the Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP). This online tool uses an interactive mapping application, allowing river users to share valuable information about how they utilize and value these vital waterways. Users can submit details either through a general form or by pinpointing specific locations on the map. Multiple locations and varying levels of detail are welcome. All information submitted through the tool is anonymous and will be aggregated with other responses. NESP scientists and engineers will use this collective data to inform habitat restoration planning and to maximize a wide range of public benefits. Public participation is crucial to ensuring effective and sustainable solutions for the Mississipp

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul secured a temporary restraining order from the United States District Court for Rhode Island to temporarily block the Trump administration from unlawfully reallocating federal homeland security funding away from states based on their compliance with the administration’s political agenda. On Saturday, without any notice or explanation, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) significantly cut funding from the Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) to certain states that are unwilling to divert law enforcement resources away from core public safety services to assist in enforcing federal immigration law. DHS then attempted to redistribute the funds to other states. Raoul led a coalition of attorneys general yesterday in filing a lawsuit challenging the illegal cuts. Today, a judge ordered the administration to put the redistribution on hold and set the money aside while the case

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GILLESPIE — Joshua M. Turpin, 19, of Gillespie, was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated assault and one count of resisting a peace officer following an incident on September 22, 2025. According to charging documents, Turpin allegedly entered a fighting stance and balled his fist at a Macoupin County deputy who was attempting to take him into custody. Turpin reportedly said, "Let's do this" during the confrontation. Additionally, Turpin is accused of pulling out a knife and threatening to kill a family member. He was also charged with resisting a peace officer after attempting to flee from the deputy during the arrest attempt. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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ST. LOUIS - Saint Louis Zoo will soon debut 6-year-old male Komodo dragon Charlie, the first resident of the Zoo’s brand new Komodo dragon habitat at the Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium. Charlie will be the first of his species to live at the Zoo in more than 12 years. The young Komodo dragon arrived at the Zoo on Sept. 20, 2025, from Bronx Zoo in New York, an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited institution. The Herpetarium underwent special renovations to prepare for his arrival, including the construction of a new solarium specially designed for the 6-foot-long reptile. Charlie is named after Saint Louis Zoo Director Emeritus Charles H. Hoessle, namesake of the Herpetarium. The new Komodo dragon solarium will debut to the public during evening hours 5-8:30 p.m. Oct. 16-19 as part of the ticketed evening event, Boo at the Zoo presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon . Beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 20, Charlie can be seen during regular Zoo hours and durin

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COLLINSVILLE – Collinsville High School senior Laila Hutchison was chosen to receive the 2025 Collinsville Community Collaboration (C3) Leaders of Tomorrow Award. C3 is a partnership between the City of Collinsville, Collinsville Chamber of Commerce and Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 to recognize excellence in community and public service. Since 2018, the C3 Awards have been held annually to recognize organizations and individuals for their outstanding contributions to the community. This year’s awards dinner will be held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the Gateway Center in Collinsville. The Leaders of Tomorrow Award honors those youth who are involved in the Collinsville community in constructive and positive ways, impacting the lives of others who reside here and inspiring them to make a difference through their actions. To be named a Leader of Tomorrow, a CUSD 10 student must act as a leader and good role model in the community, volunteer their tim

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JERSEYVILLE – Officers from the Jerseyville Police Department were honored on Tuesday night for their quick thinking and selfless actions which helped save the life of a local individual. Sergeant John Lawson and Officer Travis Liles were presented with the “Lifesaving Award” at the Jerseyville City Council meeting on Sept. 30, 2025. Officer Abigail Klunk also received the award at an earlier date. Brad Blackorby presented the awards as one of his final duties as Police Chief, shortly before his retirement letter was approved and Daniel Green was sworn in as Jerseyville’s new Chief of Police . “The Lifesaving Award to law enforcement officers who perform a life-saving act under extraordinary circumstances,” Blackorby said. “This award recognizes quick thinking, decisive action, and ability to remain calm under pressure in the face of imminent danger to human life. To be eligible, the officer’s actions must result in the saving

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GRANITE CITY - A medical device inside a backpack caused a brief concern at Enterprise Car Rental in the 3700 block of Nameoki Road in Granite City after it inadvertently activated and emitted mist, according to Granite City Police Chief Gary Brooks. The incident occurred on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, prompting a response from local authorities. Upon arrival, officers determined there was no threat to public safety and took no enforcement action. Chief Brooks emphasized that the community was not in danger.

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CARLINVILLE – Carlinville Area Hospital & Clinics will host a Community Blood Drive with ImpactLife, the provider of blood components for local hospitals. The blood drive will be from 11:00 am to 2:30 pm on Monday, October 13 at 20733 North Broad, inside Donor Bus. What: Carlinville Area Hospital & Clinics Community Blood Drive When: Monday, October 13, 11:00 am – 2:30 pm Where: ImpactLife Donor Bus, 20733 North Broad, Carlinville, IL Appointments: To donate, please contact Vicki Walker at (217) 854-3141 or visit www.bloodcenter.org and use code 60352 to locate the drive. Appointments are requested. You may also call ImpactLife to schedule at 800-747-5401. 2801 South 10th Street | Springfield, Illinois | (217) 753-1530 Donor Eligibility Criteria: Potential donors must be at least 17 years of age (16 with parental permission form available through www.bloodcenter.org ) and weigh more than 110 pounds. A photo I.D. is required to donate. For questions about

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Did you know that pumpkin spice flavored products generated over $500 million in sales in the United States alone in 2022? This staggering figure underscores the profound cultural significance of pumpkin spice beyond its humble origins as a simple spice blend. National Pumpkin Spice Day, celebrated annually on October 1st, has evolved into a cultural phenomenon that encapsulates more than just a flavor—it represents a shared experience, tradition, and community enthusiasm. Origins of National Pumpkin Spice Day National Pumpkin Spice Day is a relatively recent addition to the calendar of food-related observances. Unlike centuries-old holidays, this day emerged organically from popular culture and commercial interests. The first recognized National Pumpkin Spice Day was observed in 2015, catalyzed by the explosive popularity of pumpkin spice-flavored products, particularly the pumpkin spice latte, which Starbucks famously launched in 2003. The spice blend itself—typically

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October 1 has always been a date of notable occurrences throughout history. Historically, October 1 has seen landmark political changes. For instance, on October 1, 1949, the People’s Republic of China was officially proclaimed by Mao Zedong, marking a new era in Chinese history and significant geopolitical shifts worldwide. This event reshaped global power dynamics and influenced international relations for decades to come. October 1 has also been a day of cultural significance. For example, in 1960, Nigeria gained its independence from British colonial rule, an event that symbolized the broader movement of decolonization across Africa and the assertion of national identity and sovereignty. This milestone continues to be celebrated annually in Nigeria and serves as a reminder of the complex history of colonialism and the resilience of emerging nations. Moreover, October 1 has witnessed advances in the arts and entertainment sectors. On October 1, 1971, Walt Disney World officially

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SAINT LOUIS - Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital received a surprise visit from their favorite superheroes. On Sept. 30, 2025, members of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department’s SWAT team rappelled down the 12-story hospital building while dressed as superheroes. Not only did this serve as great mission-critical training for the officers, but it also brought joy to the patients and families at St. Louis Children’s. “We’re so thankful that our SWAT team, along with firefighters in the fire department, are able to save the day of so many children,” said Mitch McCoy, Director of Public Affairs and Information with the police department. “There’s just a lot of happy kids today.” The police officers teamed up with the St. Louis Fire Department and the St. Louis Police Foundation to conceptualize the training drills at Children’s. McCoy expressed the police department’s appreciation for the many people who

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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois Head Start Association (IHSA) announced a new statewide partnership with Children’s Museums across Illinois to expand educational opportunities for Head Start and Early Head Start children and their families during October, which is Head Start Awareness Month. The collaboration includes museums such as the Edwardsville Children’s Museum and others in Chicago, Normal, Freeport, Naperville, Springfield, Glenview, Waukegan, Peoria, Oak Lawn, Carbondale, Quincy, and Oak Park. It aims to combine classroom learning with interactive museum experiences to support early childhood development for thousands of children ages birth to five enrolled in Head Start and Early Head Start programs statewide. Through this partnership, children, their families, and program staff will receive free admission to participating museums. Exhibits and programs are designed to align with Head Start school readiness goals, focusing on early literacy, STEM, social-emotional

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JERSEYVILLE – Tuesday marked a significant change in leadership for the Jerseyville Police Department as the City Council accepted Chief Brad Blackorby’s retirement before newly appointed Police Chief Daniel Green was officially sworn in. Blackorby Retires After Decades With Department As a born-and-raised Jerseyville resident and Jersey Community High School (JCHS) graduate with a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice Administration, Blackorby’s Jerseyville roots led him to set and achieve a series of personal goals in service of his hometown; first by becoming a Jerseyville Police officer in 1995, then by becoming Police Chief in 2004. With several community members in attendance at Tuesday’s meeting, Mayor Kevin Stork read aloud from Blackorby’s retirement letter, in which he thanked his fellow officers and the Jerseyville community for their support. “After more than 30 years of dedicated service to the City of Jerseyville, including

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BETHALTO – Midwest Members Credit Union is proud to sponsor the “Eagles of the Month” program at Civic Memorial High School. Senior students are selected each month by members of the Civic Memorial faculty to represent each department. All students are awarded a certificate and a Subway gift card. Two Seniors (1 female student and 1 male student) who were selected each month will have the opportunity to compete for a $500.00 “Eagles of the Year” scholarship at the end of the school year. 2025 September Eagles of the Month winners: Math - Ty Books. Visual Arts - Milla Wells Social Studies - Pedro Conejo PE/Health - Demetrius Martin Choir - Liam Shain Band - Autumn Bowman Science - Damon Price English - Alexis Corbin C.T.E. - Elizabeth Lenger

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O'FALLON, IL. - The O'Fallon Marching Band and Drill Team capped off a spirited homecoming week with a memorable halftime performance at the Panthers-Alton Redbirds football game on Friday night, Sept. 26, 2025, showcasing their talent and school pride. Throughout Homecoming Week, the band and drill team played a central role in various events, including a parade and pep rally, energizing the student body and community. The celebrations highlighted the band's involvement not only on the football field but also in other school activities, clubs, and even the Homecoming Court. Dr. Melissa Gustafson-Hinds, the O'Fallon High School band director, has also received national recognition, being honored with the 2025 CMA Foundation Music Teachers of Excellence award. The accolade celebrates music educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication to inspiring students, building music programs, and sustaining the importance of music in schools and communities. An alum from the Class

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EAST ST. LOUIS — Illinois State Police arrested Jamal L. Wilson, 42, of East St. Louis on a first-degree murder charge following the fatal stabbing of a woman in her apartment last week. On Sept. 27, 2025, Illinois State Police Special Agents were called by the East St. Louis Police Department to investigate a homicide at an apartment in the 3200 block of State Street. The victim, 38-year-old Shanika S. Barbee of East St. Louis, was found stabbed inside her residence and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical services. Following an investigation by ISP and East St. Louis police officers, Wilson was identified as a suspect. The case was presented to the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office, which filed first-degree murder charges against Wilson on Sept. 29. He is currently being held pending further proceedings. No additional details have been released at this time. Under the law, defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in

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