Area News

United Way 211 Day is celebrated annually on Feb. 11 (2/11) to raise awareness for the 211 helpline, a free, 24/7 service connecting people across the U.S. and Canada to resources and support near them. 211 powered by United Way of Greater St. Louis is the central, easy to remember number for residents across Missouri…

Alton Main Street’s quarterly information exchange, called “What’s Up Downtown,” takes place tonight (Tuesday, Feb. 10) starting at 5:30 p.m. at The Wedge (620 E. Broadway, Alton, Ill.). 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…

System protects customers from escalated wholesale market prices During Winter Storm Fern, Ameren Illinois’ natural gas storage system served as an important buffer between customers and extraordinary wholesale market price spikes – shielding families and businesses from the extreme cost increases that hit other regions. “Natural gas plays a critical role in keeping homes warm,…

  Thirty high achieving high school students were surprised when they received Southern Illinois University Carbondale 2026 Chancellor’s Scholarships, which cover tuition, mandatory fees, on-campus housing and food for four years. Chancellor Austin A. Lane and other university officials visited 24 high schools in the southern Illinois and Metro East regions during the previous week to…

Featuring Eckert’s Hard Cider, local vendors from across the metro area, tastings, demonstrations, cidery tours, and more Eckert’s Farm in Belleville (951 S Green Mt Rd, Belleville, IL 62220), will hosts its Sip & Savor Festival on Saturday, Feb. 28. Held at the Belleville Country Store, the Sip & Savor Festival invites guests to experience…

Creativity and mental health advocacy return in an inspiring collaboration between Mooneyham Art, Old Bakery Beer Co. and Centerstone. “Alton Art Expo” is an exhibition and community gathering that highlights the healing power of artistic expression. The event will take place from 12 Noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26, and from 12 Noon…

The Troy/Maryville/St. Jacob/Marine Chamber of Commerce recently announced the return of its New Resident Packets—a complimentary member benefit designed to help promote your business to new residents moving to Troy, Maryville, St. Jacob, and Marine. Program purpose The New Resident Packets provide chamber member business information to residents as they set up new water service…

  Southern Illinois University Carbondale will celebrate its diversity, inclusiveness and the many cultures the university and surrounding area embrace during the 2026 International Festival, set for Feb. 9-13. The theme of the weeklong festival, which traces its roots back more than 60 years, is “Threads of the World-Weaving Cultures Together.” People often come from…