SUMMARY: A century-old Statue of Liberty replica has been in Sauget, Illinois, for nearly two years but currently sits disassembled due to major restoration work. Originally atop Manhattan’s Liberty Warehouse for 101 years, it was donated to the Brooklyn Museum in the early 2000s, then transferred to the National Building Arts Center in 2023. Repairs started in late April to replace corroded metal and prepare the statue to stand on a new 20-foot pedestal. Once restored, the 30-foot statue will be a permanent 50-foot tall fixture visible in Sauget, with public tours and a dedication ceremony planned.

The Sauget Statute of Liberty is nearly 1000 miles away – or a 15-hour drive, from the original Statue of Liberty in New York. Since its completion in 1886, the original Statue of Liberty has stood as an enduring symbol of freedom, hope and opportunity.

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SUMMARY: The 2025 Sophi Awards, presented by Sophisticated Living Magazine, are calling for design submissions in categories like interior design, home building, landscape architecture, and more. Now in its second year, last year’s sold-out event had 280 entries and honored excellence in commercial design, architecture, and craftsmanship in St. Louis. Internationally acclaimed designer Marcia Watson will host this year’s ceremony, celebrating local talent. Designers can submit their work by July 31 at sophiawards.com, uploading photos and project descriptions. Ten national judges will evaluate entries, selecting finalists and winners to be honored at the event.

Graig Kaminer, Publisher for Sophisticated Living Magazine, joined the morning show to preview the 2025 Sophi Awards. The deadline to submit is July 31.

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SUMMARY: Sharp County Sheriff’s Office arrested Hardy Police Chief Scott Rose following a multi-agency investigation into child sexual abuse allegations. Initial interviews seemed unsubstantiated, but further discussions with the alleged victim and family revealed previously unreported abuse. To ensure transparency, the SCSO collaborated with Arkansas State Police, Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI, which later joined after receiving a related report. Rose faces charges including second-degree sexual assault, sexual indecency with a child, endangering a minor, and providing alcohol to a minor. Sheriff Shane Russell thanked all agencies for their professionalism and cooperation in the sensitive investigation. This story is ongoing.

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