Amazon is set to open a new 1 million square foot warehouse in Pontoon Beach, IL, as part of its ongoing expansion in the Metro East region. The new facility, located in the Gateway Commerce Center, will serve as a delivery station, processing packages before they are shipped to customers.
The project is already underway, with the grounds being prepped for construction. Local officials and residents are excited about the potential economic benefits and job creation that the new warehouse will bring to the area. This development is expected to create numerous job opportunities for the local community and boost the regional economy.
The Pontoon Beach warehouse will feature enhanced safety measures, including stronger walls to withstand extreme weather, ensuring the safety of its workers and operations. This comes after the reopening of the Edwardsville Amazon warehouse, which was destroyed by a tornado in 2021.
Amazon’s new facility is part of the company’s broader strategy to expand its logistics network and improve delivery efficiency. The investment in Pontoon Beach reflects Amazon’s commitment to supporting local communities and contributing to their growth.
Local residents can look forward to the positive impact this project will have on the community, from job creation to economic growth. As the construction progresses, the community eagerly anticipates the completion of the new Amazon warehouse and the opportunities it will bring.
Dr. Christina Darin, DC, of Regenerative Health and Chiropractic LTD, has been honored by the American Institute of Chiropractors with a distinguished award recognizing her excellence in the field. This accolade not only highlights her commitment to patient care but also her dedication to making a positive impact beyond her practice. Regenerative Health and Chiropractic LTD Fosters Community Spirit Through Outreach Initiatives.
Stepping outside the confines of her clinic, Dr. Darin and her team are known for their generous community outreach efforts. This month, they’ve embarked on an initiative to provide staff lunches at various local schools, a gesture that serves a dual purpose: showing appreciation for educators and supporting local business. Each lunch is catered by JJ’s BBQ, owned by a fellow community member, thereby boosting local entrepreneurship alongside morale.
“We believe in listening to patients. You’re never just another patient here. We give you as much time as possible and ensure you leave the office feeling well taken care of and that we meet all your needs. So, you’ll never feel like you were dismissed.”
So, as we navigate through these frosty challenges, take heart in knowing that the increasing daylight and warmth will soon prevail. With the time change, brighter, sun-filled days await, bringing with them the renewal and energy of spring.
Springfield, IL – State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) is set to take on a key leadership role once again, continuing as the Minority Spokesperson for the Illinois Senate Local Government Committee in the 104th General Assembly.
“There are so many committees to serve on, but as a former county board member, I’ve found my experience to be especially useful in this role,” said Senator Harriss. “I’m excited to keep working on the issues that matter to our communities.”
The new General Assembly kicked off on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, bringing new leadership roles and committee assignments. This year, Senator Harriss will serve on six different Senate committees: Energy and Public Utilities, Licensed Activities, Local Government (MS), Transportation, Veterans Affairs, and Appropriations – Health and Human Services.
“I’m really looking forward to diving into my work on the Transportation and Licensed Activities committees,” said Senator Harriss. “Representing the Metro East—a major hub for transportation and higher education—I know how important these issues are for our region.”
Senator Harriss has also served on the Senate Higher Education and Pension committees.
In a recent email to parents, Granite City School District #9 emphasized its unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of all children to a free public education, regardless of their immigration status. The district reassured families that it will continue to provide a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for every student.
The email reflects the district’s dedication to fostering an educational experience that supports academic success, overall growth, and a sense of belonging for all students. By promoting equity, advocacy, empowerment, and community involvement, Granite City School District #9 aims to ensure that every child feels safe, valued and respected.
The message underscored the district’s belief that education is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstances, and School District #9 remains committed to its mission of providing an innovative and diverse educational experience, and it continues to work tirelessly to uphold the principles of fairness and equality for every student.
DJ’s 4×4 & Diesel Performance has been serving the Pontoon Beach, Illinois area for around 12 years. They specialize in lift kits, custom builds, and general automotive repairs, making them a go-to spot for serious gearheads in the community. Recently the specialty shop had the honor of restoring a cherished Jeep for an Air Force pilot whose father passed it down to him.
“Multiple generations of his family have proudly served our country and I got the privilege of learning about these heroes when delivering this beauty that will be enjoyed by generations to come. The pictures of this marvel speak for themselves. This Jeep received many upgrades from all LED lighting, lift kit, and the interior down to paint and frame repair. We used as much of the original parts as possible including but not limited to the wheels which turned out amazing.”
Known for their expertise in suspension systems, DJ’s 4×4 & Diesel Performance is your destination, so look no further if you’re wanting to enhance your truck’s performance with a lift kit or need comprehensive repairs, their team of ASE-certified technicians is ready to help.
DJ’s 4×4 & Diesel Performance has been a cornerstone of the Pontoon Beach, Illinois automotive community. Located at 3820 Pontoon Road, this premier shop takes pride in their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction that has made them a trusted name in the area.
Whether you’re a truck or Jeep enthusiast or simply need reliable automotive repairs, DJ’s 4×4 & Diesel Performance has you covered. Stop by their shop or give them a call at (618) 451-7737 to see how they can help you achieve your automotive dreams.
A Madison County Circuit Court judge has confirmed the Granite City electoral board’s decision to disqualify Kim Benda from the April 2025 mayoral ballot. Benda was removed after the board found that her candidate papers were not properly bound according to state regulations.
Judge Ronald Foster upheld the board’s ruling on January 28th, reinforcing the importance of adhering to election laws. Despite this setback, Benda still has the option to run as a write-in candidate, with the deadline for filing as a write-in being January 30th.
This decision has sparked conversations within the community about the significance of following election procedures and the impact such rulings can have on local elections. As the election draws near, Granite City residents will be closely monitoring the developments and the candidates who will be competing for the mayoral position.
Antiques Roadshow is coming to St. Louis May 11, 2025, as part of its 30th Anniversary tour. This beloved PBS series will offer free appraisals and history lessons on family heirlooms, flea market finds and hidden treasures.
Metro area residents may bring up to two items for free verbal appraisals by experts from leading auction houses and independent dealers. Admission to the event is free, but tickets are required and must be obtained in advance. Three episodes featuring the St. Louis area treasures will be created from this event and will be aired during the show’s 30th season in 2026.
Don’t miss your chance to uncover stories and a bit of history behind your cherished items and possibly see yourself on national television! For more information about tickets and rules for this event, tap the link.
GraniteCityGossip.com January 13, 2025
McDonald’s Launches McValue Menu to Win Back Customers. In an effort to win back customers after a challenging year marked by inflation-driven menu price hikes and an E. coli outbreak linked to its Quarter Pounder hamburgers, McDonald’s has introduced the new McValue menu. The menu debuted on January 7, 2025, and aims to offer budget-conscious diners a variety of affordable meal options. The McValue menu includes a buy one, add one for $1 offer, allowing customers to purchase one full-priced menu item and add another for just $1.
This deal spans across breakfast, lunch, and dinner items, such as the Sausage McMuffin, Chicken McNuggets, and Double Cheeseburger. Additionally, the popular $5 Meal Deal, which includes a McDouble or McChicken, small fries, and a small soft drink, has been extended. McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski acknowledged the company’s efforts to improve its value offerings, stating, “We are committed to providing great value for our customers, whether they are dining alone or feeding their families.”
Is the new value menu enticing enough to draw you back to McDonald’s?
GraniteCityGossip.com January 08, 2025
On January 20, 2025, Donald J. Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, marking the beginning of his second term in office. The inauguration ceremony, held at the U.S. Capitol, was attended by numerous dignitaries and former presidents.
In his inaugural address, President Trump emphasized his commitment to uniting the country and restoring American greatness. One of his first executive orders aimed at achieving this goal was the elimination of federal censorship. This order ensures that no federal government officer, employee, or agent engages in or facilitates any conduct that would unconstitutionally abridge the free speech of any American citizen.
Additionally, President Trump signed an executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. This change reflects his vision of asserting American sovereignty and pride. The executive order directs the Secretary of the Interior to implement the new name on official maps and throughout the federal government.
As President Trump embarks on his second term, his administration’s primary focus is on fostering unity and addressing the nation’s challenges with renewed vigor and determination.