Riverbender 🕸

ALTON – The latest Riverbend resident charged with sharing child pornography via Kik is an Alton man additionally accused of having a “graphic conversation” with a minor via Snapchat. Taylor A. Sandberg, 26, of Alton, was charged on Aug. 20, 2025 with seven Class X felony counts of child pornography. On April 12, 2025, Sandberg allegedly disseminated four video files via the Kik app, followed by three more videos shared via Kik on April 21, 2025. Each of the videos reportedly depicted prepubescent male children engaged in various sex acts. According to the state’s petition to deny Sandberg’s pretrial release from custody, a cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children lead to an investigation by the Alton Police Department yielding not only the child pornography, but “a graphic conversation” over Snapchat from November of 2024 between Sandberg and an alleged 13-year-old. A second cybertip linked to the same

Continue Reading

ALTON — Two vehicles collided at the intersection of Alton Square Drive and Homer Adams Parkway at 4:02 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, prompting immediate response from the Alton Police Department and Alton Fire Department. Officials reported that one person received treatment at the scene but declined transportation to a hospital. Another individual was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries. The crash resulted in significant damage to both vehicles, causing some traffic disruption during the cleanup process. Authorities have not released additional information regarding the cause of the accident. (Photos by Ryan Schlueter).

Continue Reading

WOOD RIVER — People gathered along the streets of Wood River on Saturday morning to celebrate the annual Wood River Labor Day Parade, which began at 10 a.m. at the Emerick Sports Complex. The parade proceeded south along 6th Street, turned west on Ferguson Avenue, and concluded at North Haller. Representatives from each local labor union participated in the event, distributing candy to parade watchers as they walked. The parade also featured a backhoe and other equipment, with the Wood River Police Department and Fire Department leading the procession. Robert Pollard, Wood River Township Chairman, served as this year’s parade marshal. Following the parade, the celebration continued at Gordon Moore Park in Alton, Illinois, where the James Stanley Charity Softball Tournament was scheduled to conclude. Union members and their families were invited to enjoy food and refreshments at the park.

Continue Reading

SUMMERFIELD — The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that lane closures on Summerfield Road between Old U.S. Highway 50 and West Casad Street in St. Clair County are scheduled to begin Monday, Aug. 25, weather permitting. Flaggers will maintain two-way traffic during the work. The lane closures are necessary for pavement rehabilitation operations and are expected to be completed by early September. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on www.GettingAroundIllinois.com .

Continue Reading

CHAMPAIGN — Building on efforts to bolster reproductive health in Illinois, Governor JB Pritzker signed two bills to protect reproductive rights by safeguarding medical professionals and making contraception and the abortion pill more available across the state. Gov. Pritzker signed an expanded state shield law ( HB3637 ) protecting health care providers from discipline for providing health care services that are lawful in Illinois, and HB3709 which requires public colleges and universities to offer contraception and medication abortion if they have an on-campus pharmacy or student health center. While Trump’s anti-choice agenda has fueled unprecedented attacks on reproductive freedom in states across the nation, Illinois continues to enshrine women’s access to critical care into state law. “Six years ago, I made a promise to the women of this state: As governor, I will ensure that your medical decisions will be your own. And we elected a General Assembly

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE – The largest student cohort to date of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Summer Success Program (SSP) took one more step toward degree completion when they celebrated the ending of their summertime academics. “You have so much to be proud of and to be in anticipation of, because you all did so well in the program,” said SSP Director Kelly Atkins, EdD. Atkins encouraged the 84 students who completed the five-week program. The 2025 Summer Success Closing Ceremony was held Friday, Aug. 8 in the Legacy Room of SIUE’s Morris University Center. SIUE Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD, was among the SSP faculty, staff and supporters who came out to wish the students well. “We were excited to praise our incoming college first-year students who elected to pursue an early start to their college careers,” said Letrice “Lee” Young, EdD, SSP coordinator. Throughout the program, participants lived in University

Continue Reading

DU QUOIN – Fairgoers at the 2025 Du Quoin State Fair will find no shortage of free entertainment throughout the grounds. With free admission and a wide variety of performances and attractions available at no cost, families can enjoy a full day of fun without worrying about their wallets. “We recognize that families may be experiencing tough times financially, and entertainment dollars are stretched thin,” said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture . “Expanding free entertainment options keeps the fair affordable, allowing families to make memories that last a lifetime.” Inside the free entertainment tent, located on the north side of Midway, music acts for all ages entertain fairgoers looking to get out of the heat and off their feet. This tent offers plenty of room for little ones to move around, and plenty of seating to enjoy your favorite fair food. Below are some highlights of free fair. Visit our website to find

Continue Reading

ALTON – Four people from the Riverbend region and beyond face felony charges for stolen vehicle possession in separate cases out of Madison County. The following individuals have been charged with offenses related to motor vehicles, a Class 2 felony: Paul R. Owens, 38, of Alton Brett R. Lowder, 39, of East Alton Jonathan A Graves, 33, of Wilsonville, Ill. (two counts) Maureen A. Myers, 56, of Holly, Mich. Owens was charged with knowingly possessing a stolen 2014 Jeep Patriot bearing an Illinois registration number on June 29, 2025. Lowder is accused of possessing a 2001 Suzuki GS500 motorcycle, also with an Illinois registration number, which he knew to be stolen on July 17, 2025. Graves allegedly possessed two knowingly stolen motorcycles on July 17, 2025, a 2020 Kawasaki and 2001 Suzuki GS500, both bearing Illinois registration numbers. He was additionally accused of burglarizing a Cottage Hills residence with the intent of committing a theft. Myers was reportedly

Continue Reading

DU QUION – Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined the Department of Public Health, Department of Healthcare and Family Services, and healthcare leaders from southern Illinois to discuss the impacts of Trump’s budget cuts on healthcare across rural areas of the state. The budget bill from Trump and congressional Republicans slashes Medicaid coverage for working families and endangers the stability of hospitals and care providers; rural hospitals across the nation are projected to lose $155 billion in funding as a result of the bill. “Rural hospitals are a critical lifeline for communities across Illinois. Not only are they one of the only providers of life-saving medical care for miles, they are often the backbone of rural economies,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans making devastating cuts to Medicaid, many of these rural healthcare providers will be at risk of closure, causing patients to lose care and staff to los

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County names Jessica Dudley as its new Chief County Assessment Officer. “Jessica brings a strong record of service and professionalism to this position,” Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser said. “Her background as Jarvis Township Assessor and her certification as a Certified Illinois Assessing Officer give her the experience and credibility needed to lead the office.” Dudley oversees the county’s property assessment system, which provides the foundation for funding local schools and government services. She works with township assessors to maintain accurate property values, coordinates with the Board of Review during the appeals process, and administers exemptions for seniors, veterans and homeowners. Before taking on the countywide role, Dudley served as the Jarvis Township Assessor, a position she’s held since 2014. “She’s committed to serving the residents with fairness, transparency

Continue Reading

ALTON – The Wedge is proud to welcome Jacqueline Reyes as its new Marketing & Communications Specialist. A student at Principia College and a first-generation college attendee, Jacqueline brings with her a strong mix of creativity, digital marketing experience, and a passion for connecting with people. Originally from California, Jacqueline is currently a senior at Principia studying Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and a minor in Art History. She has a growing portfolio of experience, from managing social media campaigns and building websites, to organizing campus events and helping fellow students with career planning. At The Wedge, she’ll be supporting marketing and storytelling efforts, helping to grow The Wedge’s visibility through digital content and media, while assisting with programming and promotion—engaging both current members and the broader Riverbend community. “Jackie has a great mix of curiosity and initiative,”

Continue Reading

HIGHLAND — Gavin Schlarmann, a dedicated emergency medical technician and firefighter with the City of Highland, died in a motorcycle crash on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, the Highland Police and Fire Departments announced on Friday. Schlarmann was known for his commitment to public service, frequently responding to ambulance calls and supporting his colleagues at the firehouse. The Highland Fire Department described Gavin as someone who consistently “stepped up” and “was always the first to step up and the last to leave,” highlighting his courage, compassion, and selflessness. “It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic passing of Gavin Schlarmann,” the department said in a statement. “His kind spirit touched countless lives. Gavin always greeted you with a smile.” The loss has deeply affected his family, friends, and fellow public safety personnel. The Highland Police Department asked the community to keep them in

Continue Reading

GRANTFORK - Madison County Coroner Nicholas P. Novacich has identified a 21-year-old Highland man who died following a motorcycle crash on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025. Gavin L. Schlarmann was operating a 2025 Kawasaki motorcycle northbound on Illinois Route 160 in Grantfork when his motorcycle left the roadway and struck a tree. Schlarmann was transported to St. Joseph Hospital Emergency Room in Highland, where he was pronounced dead at 3:10 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, by the emergency room physician. The preliminary cause of death is blunt head trauma. The coroner's office said routine toxicology samples were collected and will be tested for drugs and alcohol, with results pending. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Illinois State Police Troop 8 and the Madison County Coroner’s Office. A final cause of death will not be issued until all reports are complete. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Meridith Funeral Home in Highland.

Continue Reading

WOOD RIVER — Marquette Catholic’s boys golf team delivered a strong performance Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, at the Madison County Small Schools Golf Championships, held at Belk Park. The Explorers finished with a team score of 324, highlighted by senior Carson Jones’ second-place individual finish among small schools and seventh overall. The tournament took place Aug. 21, 2025, bringing together small school teams from across Madison County. Marquette Catholic’s boys golf squad demonstrated depth, with senior Andrew Belden and sophomore Sam Jun tying for sixth and seventh place individually among small schools, each shooting an 80. Jones led the team with a 75, contributing significantly to the Explorers’ overall team success. Other individual scores included senior Henry Freihoff at 89, junior Chase Pruitt at 91, and junior Hubert Allen at 95. The team’s achievement earned them recognition as Tucker’s Automotive Repair and Tire Male Athletes

Continue Reading

ALTON — Landon Mayer captured the Large School Division title at the Madison County Boys Golf Tournament event at Belk Park in Wood River, finishing with a score of 1 over par, 73. Mayer’s performance showcased his skill among competitors in the region. Mayer managed to post a strong score that set him apart from the rest of the field. “Landon is the most talented player in the conference and has the chance to have a special junior season," Alton's head boys golf coach Dylan Dudley said. "He had the opportunity to watch and learn from Sam (Otwell) last year, which has helped him tremendously.” Landon is an Auto Butler Male Athlete of the Month for the Redbirds. Coach Dudley also highlighted the importance of Mayer’s mental approach to the game, noting that managing emotions is crucial for his continued success. “The key for Landon is to handle the mental side of the game; you can never get too high or too low,” Dudley added. Mayer’s

Continue Reading

O’FALLON – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that the entrance ramp from southbound Illinois 158 to westbound Interstate 64 in St. Clair County will be closed overnight for road construction. The closure will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 26, and the ramp is expected to reopen by 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 27. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes during this closure. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on www.GettingAroundIllinois.com .

Continue Reading

ALTON - Marquette Catholic High School is once again sponsoring a Mega Raffle fundraiser with a grand prize of $50,000. Every fall, MCHS holds the Mega Raffle to raise money for their students and programs. Tickets cost $50, or you can buy two for $100 and receive a third ticket free. The big drawing will be held during the school’s homecoming block party on Oct. 25, 2025, but early bird winners will take home $1,000 every week starting on Aug. 23, 2025. “It really just benefits Marquette as a whole,” explained Mary Hough, who organizes the raffle. “Really, it’s one of our bigger fundraisers for the year.” The school will celebrate the start of the school year with a kickoff party on Aug. 23, 2025, at Johnson’s Corner following the annual Blue/Gray game. The first early bird winner will be drawn at the party. Early bird drawings will continue on Sept. 5, Sept. 19, Oct. 3, Oct. 17, and Oct. 24. You can purchase tickets online u

Continue Reading

ALTON - Alton’s famous Food Truck Festival returns this weekend at the Alton Amphitheater. From 4–8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, community members can come out, enjoy live music by Almost Famous, and sample 16 food trucks. Dan Herkert, the amphitheater commission chair, noted his excitement to share the day with the community on the riverfront. “The Food Truck Festival has become one of our most popular events over the years at the amphitheater,” he said. “It’s a great feeling for all of us volunteers on the amphitheater commission to be able to put something together like this, where families and the community can come together and have a positive experience. We see enough stuff on the news and in the world today that’s negative. This is a chance for us to come together as a community and bring people from outside our local community to Alton so they can really see what we have to offer.” Hosted by the amphitheater and Sauce

Continue Reading

WOOD RIVER – A Wood River woman accused of leading police on a high-speed chase in a stolen vehicle and jumping into the Mississippi River faces felony charges in her latest case of fleeing police. Elizabeth A. Scarborough, 24, of Wood River, was charged on Aug. 15, 2025 with a Class 2 felony count of offenses related to motor vehicles and a Class 3 felony count of aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer. On July 22, 2025, Scarborough allegedly possessed a knowingly stolen 2008 Nissan Titan bearing an Illinois registration number and fled from a police officer signaling her to stop at more than 21 miles per hour above the area’s legal speed limit. The state’s petition to deny Scarborough’s pretrial release from custody states that on July 22, 2025, an Alton Police sergeant and Madison County Sheriff's deputy initiated a traffic stop on a 2008 Nissan Titan that was traveling on Homer Adams Parkway at 90 mph in a 45 mph zone. The vehicle had

Continue Reading

HIGHLAND - A local bodybuilder and personal trainer helps her clients find balance in their fitness journeys. Ashley Wilson loves the discipline behind bodybuilding, but her daily life focuses more on leveling healthy food and fitness with treats and rest. Workouts and meal plans are just one aspect of her coaching. She tries to help her clients — mostly women of all ages — develop positive relationships with food, their bodies, and their fitness. “We can still be healthy and fit. It doesn't have to be extreme. It’s all about balance,” Wilson said. “I help women figure that out, so then they’re able to create a lifestyle and just feel good about themselves.” Wilson started working out in 2016. She shared that she had a history of eating disorders and would previously find herself in a cycle of restricting and then falling off her workouts. It was important to her to find an equilibrium between healthy eating, fitness and mental

Continue Reading