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ALTON - Riverbender.com is celebrating its 20th anniversary by reflecting on the past and planning for the future. Started on Oct. 31, 2005, by owner John Hentrich, Riverbender.com has become the leading independent news site in the region. The company has expanded to include EdGlenToday.com and MetroEastStar.com , while offering additional services like website design and digital marketing. Hentrich expressed his appreciation for the team and community that has allowed Riverbender.com to grow. “I owe the credit to the team and the advertisers that support us. I'm so fortunate. It's been a fun ride and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!” Hentrich started Riverbender.com because he wanted to share content that went beyond newsprint. Over the years, Riverbender.com has developed a robust video platform and radio program, including Riverbender Radio . With shows like CJ Nasello’s “Our Daily Show!” and Brian

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Key Takeaways: OCD is a mental health disorder that happens a person gets stuck in a cycle of obsessions and compulsions. Risk factors range from genetics to childhood trauma. Treatment includes medication, therapy or a combination of both. About 1 in 40 people suffer from OCD. Last NFL postseason, Washington kicker Zane Gonzalez made the biggest kick of his career when he made a game-ending field goal against Tampa Bay, giving the Commanders their first playoff win in 20 years. But Gonzalez made more headlines with his extensive pre-kick routine than the actual game-winner itself. TV cameras caught Gonzalez’s extensive routine, which included fixing his sock, tapping his helmet and adjusting his hair repeatedly before the kick. It wasn’t any superstition, but part of Gonzalez's obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Fans took to social media to scrutinize Gonzalez’s unusual behavior as some type of nervous behavior. It wasn’t until

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COLLINSVILLE - The Collinsville Police Department is intensifying its efforts to enforce laws against driving under the influence for Halloween weekend. The department issued a reminder urging residents to avoid impaired driving to prevent legal consequences, including vehicle impoundment and arrest. In a recent statement, the department emphasized its aggressive stance on DUI enforcement and offered several recommendations for those planning to celebrate Halloween safely. Collinsville Police suggestions include designating a sober driver, using ride-share applications, public transportation, or taxi services, and employing what they referred to as the "shoelace express." The police department encouraged the community to have a safe, fun, and sober Halloween.

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COLLINSVILLE - In a special Halloween edition of Fugitive Friday, Collinsville Police highlighted several individuals wanted on charges related to driving under the influence. The announcement was made to raise public awareness about these fugitives and encourage community assistance in their apprehension. The Collinsville Police provided the photographs above of those on the wanted list. The individuals featured include: - Martin Tovar - Aggravated DUI / license suspended or revoked. - Reggie Simuel - Aggravated DUI 3rd+ Subsequent - Marcelino Ruiz-Perez - DUI BAC .08 or more - Stacey Thomason - Aggravated DUI 3rd+ Subsequent - Juan Gonzalez-Anton - Aggravated DUI - Aja Blount - FTA - Aggravated DUI x2, Aggravated Fleeing, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon by a Felon Collinsville Police urges anyone with information on the whereabouts of these individuals to contact the department at (618) 344-2131 extension 5209. Collinsville Police said this initiative aims to enhance public

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BETHALTO - Bethalto Community Unit School District #8 students, faculty and administration celebrated a major achievement at a special assembly. On Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, the Civic Memorial High School community came together to recognize their new status as an “exemplary” school. The Illinois School Report Card data, which measures student achievement and school culture, released earlier this week. As an exemplary school, Civic Memorial is in the top 10% of schools in the state. “We’re always celebrating kids. We’re always honoring our teachers and acknowledging them and lifting one another up. It’s just an incredible place to be,” said Superintendent Dr. Jill Griffin. “They’re all working together and they know they’re moving towards one common goal, so it’s incredible. It’s so exciting because it’s not an easy thing to accomplish.” According to the Illinois School Report Card data for Civic

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With baby boomers aging, look around an outdoor festival, and you’ll see plenty of what look like the walking wounded. You’ll see older adults who are walking as though they need a hip or a knee replaced. But, what about an ankle? For people living with chronic ankle pain from severe arthritis, especially after past injuries or fractures, daily life can become a painful, frustrating struggle. But for the right candidate, a total ankle replacement can offer not just pain relief, but a chance to walk, shop and move through life again with ease. Though it's been around for decades, total ankle replacement is still relatively unknown compared to hip or knee replacements. That's largely because until recently, the results weren’t great. Early generations of implants often failed, leaving surgeons hesitant and patients skeptical. Technology has advanced in the last 10 to 15 years with custom, patient-specific metal implants. Bryce Paschold, DPM, a foot and ankle surgeon

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SPRINGFIELD - The bill passed early at 2:54 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, a timing Bishop Paprocki described as “under the cloud of darkness.” In a statement released shortly after the vote, Paprocki criticized the measure and its proponents, calling it an endorsement of what he termed a “culture of death.” “It is quite fitting that the forces of the culture of death in the Illinois General Assembly passed physician-assisted suicide on October 31 — a day that, culturally, has become synonymous with glorifying death and evil,” Paprocki said. He emphasized that “killing oneself is not dying with dignity” and expressed concern that the legislation contradicts the medical oath to “do no harm,” noting that doctors would now be authorized to “prescribe death.” Paprocki also highlighted potential risks associated with the bill, citing “documented cases of patients being denied treatment and instead offered

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GODFREY - Godfrey officials have announced a delay in the planned temporary closure of Pierce Lane, now scheduled to begin Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. The closure, originally set for early November, is necessary to relocate and install storm drainage infrastructure as part of the Pierce Lane improvement and expansion project. Keller Construction, subcontracted by the Village of Godfrey, is responsible for the work on the section of Pierce Lane between Stamper Lane and the entrance to the Rolling Hills Golf Course. The closure is expected to last approximately two months. A signed detour route will be in place, directing traffic along Stamper Lane, Godfrey Road, and Winter Lane. Keller Construction will install traffic control and signage before the road closure begins. Chris Sichra, Godfrey’s Public Safety Administrator and Emergency Manager, stated that local first responders, mutual aid partners including fire, police, and EMS, as well as local bus companies and the Madison

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SPRINGFIELD – The Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (SB25 HA5) passed with a vote on the Senate floor today and now awaits the Governor’s signature. Statement from Governor Pritzker on the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act Today, Gov. Pritzker released the following statement on the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act: “For far too long, private grid operators have been hiking up rates that are making it harder for Illinois families to pay their utility bills. At the same time, the Trump Administration has been blocking the ability to bring lower-cost energy options online. Illinois is taking action to address these concerns and has passed the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act – an important step that will help lower utility bills and make our electrical grid stronger. “This legislation takes two routes toward affordability. First, it will accelerate clean energy projects with new grid-scale batteries and other clean

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul is reminding parents and guardians to check the state’s sex offender registry before finalizing Halloween plans and determining trick-or-treat routes for their children. “With many Halloween activities coming up this weekend, I am encouraging parents, grandparents and guardians to keep their families safe by checking the Illinois State Police Offender Registry before leaving home,” Raoul said. “While Illinois law prohibits child sex offenders from distributing candy, searching the registry is a simple step that families can take before leaving home to ensure everyone has a happy and safe Halloween.” Illinois law prohibits all sex offenders who committed a crime against a child from distributing candy, in addition to prohibiting them from participating in trick-or-treat events or other Halloween events involving children younger than 18. Sex offenders on parole, mandatory supervised release and probation ma

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SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced $31.5 million in funding as part of the Regional Site Readiness Program – an infrastructure grant program designed to help communities attract businesses, create jobs, and support community renewal. Through the program, entities can apply for funding to begin planning and prepare unused or unsuitable sites – such as abandoned factories or brown fields – for business or community development. “For too long, Illinois communities were left with moribund sites and missed opportunities because state government wasn’t acting as a true partner — that era is over,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Through our Regional Site Readiness Program we’re investing in the groundwork that fuels growth. From site preparation and infrastructure improvements to community revitalization, we’re leaving no stone unturned as

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY - St. Louis County police officers from the South County Precinct responded at 7:44 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, to a report of a motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian. Upon arrival, officers found an adult male who had been struck by a vehicle. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital but later died from his injuries. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators from the Bureau of Crimes Against Persons and the Accident Reconstruction unit. The investigation remains active. Officials ask anyone with information about the incident to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477), where a reward may be available.

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BETHALTO - Bethalto native Sophee Brown has served in the U.S. Air Force since 2023 as a Private First Class in the Military Police unit. Brown, who currently holds this rank, joined the service to protect the United States, according to her family. Brown, a twin, left behind her sister to answer the call to serve. "Sophee is my niece and is a twin. She left behind her sister to serve our country," said Lisa Woulfe, a family member. Woulfe added, "She is my hero as she is brave and so driven to protect the US. Our family is so proud of her." Brown’s service reflects a commitment to national security, and her family continues to express pride in her dedication. Submitted by Lisa Woulfe. How to submit Submitting a tribute is simple. You can fill out our Veteran Salute form at http://contribute.riverbender.com/page/veteran-salute , or email us at news@riverbender.com.

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FOREST HOMES - Forest Homes native Richard F. Moody, a Marine who served during the Vietnam War, was killed in action on Dec. 21, 1965. Moody, who joined the Marines on his 18th birthday in 1965, held the rank of Private First Class at the time of his death. Moody was awarded the Purple Heart along with three other medals and one bar in recognition of his service. His family remembers him as dedicated, noting that he enlisted on his 18th birthday. His sacrifice is part of the broader history of Marine service members who fought in Vietnam, reflecting the commitment and loss experienced by many during the conflict. Submitted by Brenda Copeland. How to submit Submitting a tribute is simple. You can fill out our Veteran Salute form at http://contribute.riverbender.com/page/veteran-salute, or email us at news@riverbender.com.

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SHIPMAN - Preston F. Mathis, a veteran from Shipman, served in the U.S. Navy from 2005 to 2009, participating in Operation Enduring Freedom. Holding the rank of ABF3, Mathis was assigned to the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) during his service. Deonia Mathis submitted this Veteran Salute. How to submit Submitting a tribute is simple. You can fill out our Veteran Salute form at http://contribute.riverbender.com/page/veteran-salute, or email us at news@riverbender.com.

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MADISON — Joan Wilkins, 84, lost her home and belongings in a house fire on Oct. 29, 2025, in Madison. Her granddaughter, Erin Sabol, has launched a fundraiser to assist Wilkins in rebuilding her life. Sabol said Wilkins was not at home when the fire occurred and is currently staying with family members. However, the family discovered that the homeowner’s insurance had lapsed, leaving Wilkins with no coverage for the loss. “All funds are going directly to her to start over and find a new home,” Sabol said in a statement. She expressed gratitude for the support, including kind words, prayers, and donations from the community. The fundraiser aims to provide financial assistance to Wilkins as she begins the process of recovery after the devastating fire. Click here for the GoFundMe.

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EAST ALTON – Two local men face felony charges after possessing metal knuckles and more, including a Cottage Hills man facing his sixth charge of driving on a revoked/suspended license. Danny M. Smith, 62, of Cottage Hills, was charged on Oct. 20, 2025 with a Class 2 felony count of unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon and a Class 4 felony count of driving while his license was revoked/suspended. Smith allegedly possessed a set of metal knuckles on Sept. 30, 2025; his possession of the weapon was illegal as a felon previously convicted of burglary in a prior Madison County case from 2001. Smith is additionally accused of driving a motor vehicle on 6th Street in Wood River while his license had been revoked or suspended for a previous offense of driving under the influence (DUI). Charging documents state Smith had previously been convicted of driving on a revoked/suspended license on five prior occasions in 1993, 1995, 1997, 1998, and 2006, with this latest offense being

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Did you know that the global Halloween market was projected to reach over $12 billion in retail sales in 2024? From costumes and candy to decorations and parties, Halloween has grown into a cultural phenomenon far beyond its ancient origins. But how did a festival rooted in ancient rites transform into the commercial and social celebration we recognize today? Exploring the evolution of Halloween reveals much about cultural adaptation, commercialization, and the human fascination with the eerie and the festive. Ancient Origins: From Samhain to All Hallows’ Eve Halloween’s roots trace back over 2,000 years to the Celtic festival of Samhain, celebrated primarily in what is now Ireland, Scotland, and Northern France. Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, a time believed to blur the boundaries between the living world and the spirit realm. During Samhain, people lit bonfires and wore costumes to ward off roaming ghosts. This ancient festival

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October 31 is a date steeped in history, marked by groundbreaking events that have shaped societies, cultures, and the course of human progress. 1517 – Martin Luther Nails His 95 Theses to the Church Door in Wittenberg Arguably one of the most transformative events in Western history occurred on October 31, 1517, when Martin Luther, a German monk and theologian, is said to have nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg. This act challenged the Catholic Church’s practices, especially the sale of indulgences, and ignited the Protestant Reformation. While the exact historical accuracy of the nailing is debated, there’s no doubt the document was disseminated widely, sparking intense religious debate and ultimately leading to significant shifts in Christian theology, the rise of Protestant denominations, and profound socio-political changes across Europe. The Reformation also contributed to the rise of individualism and the questioning of authority,

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ALTON – One of Alton’s most cherished traditions returns for its 108th year, and Riverbender.com will be there to bring you every spooky float, marching band, and costumed ghoul — live. The Alton Halloween Parade steps off at 7:00 p.m. sharp on Halloween night, Friday, October 31, 2025 , and Riverbender’s live broadcast begins at 6:50 p.m. so you won’t miss a moment of the action. Presented by the East End Improvement Association , the parade begins at Washington Avenue and Broadway , travels down Broadway, and ends at 9th Street . How to Watch Watch the 108th Annual Alton Halloween Parade live and on-demand across all Riverbender platforms: Riverbender.com Live Stream Riverbender iPhone App Riverbender Android App Riverbender Roku Channel Facebook Live YouTube Channel The full replay will also be available on Riverbender.com . Parade Marshal Karen Wilson Leads the Way This year’s parade marshal,

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