CHESTER – The Randolph County Health Department is reporting that a mosquito sample collected in the city of Sparta, IL has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). This is the first confirmed positive WNV mosquito sample in the county in 2026. West Nile Virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has […]
Mosquito with West Nile Virus reported in Sparta Read More »
CHESTER – Memorial Hospital is marking a major milestone as its Lung Cancer Screening Program has screened more than 700 patients over the past decade, providing early detection, reassurance, and life-saving care to those at higher risk. Rhonda Mott, Chief Radiologic Technologist, Wesleyan Fadler and Melissa Poe, Radiologic Technologists. Since welcoming its
Memorial Hospital Lung Screening Program surpasses 700 patients in 10-year milestone Read More »
CHESTER – Beginning July 1, 2026, a new Illinois requirement is helping families ensure all children are screened for lead exposure during their early years. Under new Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) guidelines, all children in Illinois must receive blood lead testing at 12 months and 24 months of age. Previously, testing requirements
Illinois’ new lead testing requirements began July 1, 2026 Read More »
ST. LOUIS, MO,July 13, 2026 — The American Red Cross is declaring an emergency blood shortage as the blood supply fell nearly 25% in June. Blood donors are urgently needed to give now to help ensure patients receive lifesaving medical care without delay. The shortage is especially serious for platelets and types O positive and B negative blood. A
EMERGENCY SHORTAGE! Donors needed now to stop alarming drop in Red Cross blood supply Read More »
CHESTER – The Chester Beautification/Tourism Commission will meet Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in the municipal building at 1330 Swanwick Street in Chester. The tentative agenda: Pledge of Allegiance Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes-Melissa Gross Treasurer’s Report-Linda Rader Public Petitions & Correspondence Illinois on the River publication Standing Committee Reports
Chester Beautification-Tourism Commission meets Thursday Read More »
Chester Chamber of Commerce CHESTER – The ribbon cutting of the Don Welge Memorial Bridge marks more than the opening of a new bridge — it celebrates progress, connection, and the bright future of our area. It was especially meaningful to honor the legacy of longtime Chamber member Don Welge by officially dedicating the
What a historic day for our community! Read More »
SPARTA, IL — Sparta Community Hospital District (SCHD) and the Health and Wellness Foundation are proud to announce that Emma Batson, CNA, and Ellie Grobb, RN, have each been awarded a $1,000 Alene Holloway Nurse Scholarship to support their nursing education. (From left:) Joann Emge, Sparta Community Hospital CEO; Emma Batson, CNA; Ellie
Sparta Community Hospital employees awarded Alene Holloway Nurse Scholarships Read More »
JEFFERSON CITY — The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reporting the arrest of a 22-year-old man from Red Bud, Illinois. According to the report, Miguel A. Santiago-Salinas was charged with driving while intoxicated and careless and imprudent driving at 8:24 p.m. Saturday, July 11 in Cape Girardeau County. He was released.
MSHP reports arrest of Red Bud, Illinois man Read More »
CHESTER – The Chester Parks And Recreation Committee will meet at City Hall, 1330 Swanwick Street, Chester, Illinois 62233 Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 6 p.m. The meeting is open to the public. The tentative agenda:
Chester Parks and Recreation Committee Meets Tuesday Read More »
Elijah McGuire, Arie Lee, Edwin Marquez, and Xander Greene earn top honors By Jim Beers The Chester Grade School Music Program has announced the top music awards for the 2025-26 school year. Sue Colonel, Grade School Band Director, annually presents four awards including Most Improved Musician, Outstanding Instrumentalist, and two Director’s Awards. Most often these
Chester Grade School Music Awards are announced Read More »
