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A movie is filming on Saint Louis University campus today and will soon shoot in other parts of the region, with producers calling for 1,800 extras in September.

Meanwhile in Alton, a psychological thriller wrapped filming as the community helped bring *local flair* to the production.

Cahokia Heights started cleaning abandoned properties three months ago and demolished 28 homes since June; crews will soon remove 15 more using a $300,000 grant + further funding is being sought.

Neighbors say the progress is encouraging improved yard care in the area.

Belleville Police remembered beloved Chief Matthew Eiskant, who died after a long battle with cancer, with a growing memorial at headquarters.

Visitation will be held Sunday, Aug. 30 at Belleville East High School and Monday, Aug. 31 at First Baptist Church O’Fallon, with a funeral procession starting later Monday.

A drone light show using 1,200 lighted drones will recreate scenes from Harry Potter today at World Wide Technology Raceway.

The event promises to dazzle local viewers with a creative blend of art + technology.

Horse racing fans will be able to stream the premier St. Louis Derby on Saturday on 5 On Your Side, with the feed starting at 1:30 p.m. and the race beginning around 5:15 p.m. The eight-horse race offers a $250,000 prize from Fairmount Park Casino & Racing.

The Jackie Joyner-Kersee Innovation Center has already made an impact on hundreds of students as the school year begins in Belleville.

The center offers innovative learning programs (including hands-on projects) to support local education.

On Monday, Aug. 24, Staunton and Father McGivney Catholic led in the Roxana Invitational volleyball matches as local high schools opened their seasons, while Triad soccer scored six unanswered goals at Knights Field.

More tournament games are set for Tuesday and Saturday.

Illinois families & educators may claim state tax credits for school expenses when filing state returns if receipts for tuition, book rentals, and lab fees are kept; tax preparers warn the nonrefundable credit may be lowered if the tax owed is less than the credit.