August 2026

SIU hosts Metalsmiths’ conference Sept. 4-5

Featured News, News, Randolph County News /

By Pete Rosenbery CARBONDALE, Ill. — Get ready to hammer down and light the forge next weekend at the annual Southern Illinois Metalsmiths Society (SIMS) conference at Southern Illinois University Carbondale on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 4-5. The two-day conference features demonstrations, artist talks and networking opportunities with metalsmiths, jewelers, blacksmiths, students and educators from […]

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MDC to hold free virtual program about doves and pigeons Sept. 11

MO State News, News /

St. LOUIS, Mo.—Dove hunting season begins in Missouri Sept. 1.  Whether a hunter or birdwatcher, doves and pigeons are a distinct part of the Show-Me State’s landscape.  Missouri is home to several species of both native and introduced doves and pigeons.  To help people learn more about these birds, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC)

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Kirk E Mudd

Obituaries, Randolph County Obits /

KIRK E. MUDD, 46, of Prairie du Rocher, Illinois, passed away at 11:40 am, Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Red Bud Regional Hospital, Red Bud, Illinois.    He was born October 14, 1979, in Red Bud, Illinois, the oldest child of Larry and Diane (nee Imming) Mudd. On May 1, 2004, Kirk married Elizabeth “Liz”

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James Leroy Loucks, Jr

Obituaries, Randolph County Obits /

James Leroy Loucks, Jr. 50, of Cutler, Illinois passed away Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Murphysboro, IL. He was born April 29, 1976 to James Leroy Loucks and Sharon Williams. James enjoyed bow hunting, fishing and most of all spending time with his family, especially his children. Survivors include six children,

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Lady Jackets Volleyball sweeps Anna-Jonesboro in 2026 season opener

Sports /

Freshmen and Varsity win in two sets; JV wins in three sets to sweep the Lady Wildcats BY JIM BEERS             Tuesday August 25 was the season opener for Chester High School Lady Jacket Volleyball. A large crowd filled Colbert Memorial Gymnasium to support the Lady Jackets. All three levels, Freshmen, JV and Varsity, competed,

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The future of Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center discussed at Town hall Meeting

News, Randolph County News /

Following the recent announcement regarding major operational changes at the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in Anna, a delegation of Southern Illinois lawmakers and community stakeholders hosted a town hall meeting Wednesday night in Anna to discuss the future of the facility.. The open forum centered on the Illinois Department of Human Services’ announcement that

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Vocal Vignettes Announces “Babblin’ ‘Bout Broadway: Farmington Follies” Coming October 9-11

Featured News, News, Regional News /

FARMINGTON, MO – Vocal Vignettes is excited to bring the magic of live entertainment back to the community with its upcoming Babblin’ ‘Bout Broadway production called Farmington Follies, set for October 9, 10, and 11. Featuring a talented cast of local performers, Farmington Follies will showcase a lively mix of music, comedy, dance, and Broadway-inspired entertainment that celebrates the creativity

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SIU Alumni Association to honor 2026 distinguished alumni Sept. 11

News, Randolph County News /

CARBONDALE, Ill. — The SIU Alumni Association will honor six Southern Illinois University Carbondale alumni at ceremonies next month for achievements that advanced scientific research, entrepreneurship, public health, documentary filmmaking and alumni engagement. They will each be honored during the association’s 2026 Distinguished Alumni Awards at 3:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, in Morris Library’s John

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