Riverbender 🕸

BETHALTO — Lauren Hardy, left fielder for the Civic Memorial girls softball team, recently completed a notable four-year career with the Eagles, finishing with a .333 batting average, 34 RBIs and 68 hits. Hardy is a Tom Lane State Farm Insurance Female Athlete of the Month for her contributions to the girls softball team. Hardy was a key player both in the outfield and at the plate during the past season, according to Raigen Linton, head girls softball coach at Civic Memorial. "She doesn’t miss many balls hit into the outfield and has done well at hitting in her Eagles career. She will be missed," Linton said. This season, Hardy recorded a .306 batting average with 19 hits, seven RBIs and seven doubles. She was one of five seniors on the Eagles roster this year.

Continue Reading

RIVERBEND - As summer continues, an Ameren Illinois representative is providing some basic electric safety tips to help community members stay safe. Whether you’re flying drones over power lines or using your phone in the pool, there are a few ways to avoid a potentially dangerous or even fatal situation. Brian Bretsch with Ameren Illinois encourages community members to have a conversation with their kids about these topics at any point in the year, but especially in the summer when kids are more likely to be outside and around electricity. “It’s always a good time to talk to your kids about some electric safety tips,” Bretsch said. “We’re just asking parents to err on the side of caution and just have that conversation.” As drones become more popular, Bretsch urges caregivers to talk to their children about what to do if a drone becomes entangled in power lines or falls into a substation. He acknowledges that many kids would rathe

Continue Reading

GRANITE CITY - The Granite City Police Department issued a public service announcement Thursday, July 31, 2025, warning residents about a phone scam involving calls that appear to come from City Hall. According to the Granite City Police Department, numerous residents have received calls from a number associated with City Hall in which the caller demands immediate payment of fines, claiming that the recipient or a family member will face trouble if the payment is not made over the phone. The police department clarified that these calls are spoofed and do not originate from City Hall. Officials emphasized that the City of Granite City will never request payment over the phone. Residents are advised to be cautious and not to provide any personal or financial information in response to these calls. Anyone with questions or information about these types of calls, or who wants to file a report, should contact the Granite City Police at 618-877-6111.

Continue Reading

JERSEYVILLE - There’s a new band in the Riverbend area, and they promise not just a concert, but a show. Almost Legends is currently seeking a guitarist and bassist to round out their lineup and begin playing at venues across the region. Bud Ramsay, who organized the band, explained that they plan to offer a different setlist at every show, complete with costumes, audience interactions and the vocal stylings of karaoke champs. “We’re going to have a blast,” Ramsay said. “I’m telling you, this is a disclaimer, you are going to have fun when you come and see Almost Legends.” Ramsay hails from Las Vegas, where he was involved in the World Cup Karaoke Contest. Approximately 30 finalists from the Greater St. Louis region competed in last year’s contest, and several of them are now a part of the Almost Legends band. While many bands play the same sets at every show, Ramsay said Almost Legends stands out because their setlist varies.

Continue Reading

GRANITE CITY - Natalie Kondrich was a strong senior midfielder who usually came off the bench for Granite City High's girls soccer team this past spring in 2025. featured play that was steady and consistent all season, providing a spark for the Warriors. Kondrich felt she played well overall in the season. "I think I did OK," Kondrich said. "We had our ups and downs, but every team as those." When she looks back at the just completed season, Kondrich will have many good memories of playing for the Warriors. "Probably just showing up to practice every day will be one of my favorite memories," Kondrich said of her Granite City high school soccer career, "and having fun, all the girls." She also spared a thought for head coach Ken Prazma, who stepped down and announced his retirement after the Warriors' final game. "I think he definitely enjoyed coaching us, and we definitely love him," she said. "We hope he has great things coming." As for Kondrich, her plans include attending

Continue Reading

ALTON - Community members can come out and enjoy a fun night for a great cause in memory of Anthony Geisen. From 6–11 p.m. on Aug. 23, 2025, at the Alton VFW, Anthony’s family and loved ones will honor him with the second annual Forever 20 memorial fundraiser to raise money for Marquette Catholic High School scholarships in his name. Attendees can enjoy a chicken and beer dinner, live music by Lady Luck, raffles, an auction and more fun. “We think about him every day. But this is one day of the year where everybody, people in the community who have supported us so much, can all come together and just celebrate his life,” said Sara, Anthony’s mother. Sara and organizers Katie and Tricia have worked hard to make this year’s event a fun one. There will be a bourbon pull with top-shelf bourbons and 52 chances to win. Organizers thanked the 16 sponsors and several local businesses who have donated raffle and auction items. They added that whoever

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE – Race riots were a form of nationwide terrorism against Black people, according to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville alumna and filmmaker Tiffany B. Lee, CEO of Think Black Cultural Media Group and Executive Director of Heritage Programs, Inc. Lee, who earned a bachelor’s in psychology from SIUE in 1998 and holds a master’s in communications, has produced a 17-minute documentary short, “I Bear Witness: The Untold Stories of American Race Riots;” and a limited interview series, “I Bear Witness: Freedom Fighters on the Frontlines.” She is producing a full-length, 60-minute documentary, “I Bear Witness: The Untold Stories of Southwest Missouri Race Riots . “I wanted my work to move the conversation past the idea of a race riot as being an anomaly and begin the conversation of the race riot as a form of nationwide terrorism against Black people,” said Lee, the East St. Louis native who served as

Continue Reading

SPRINGFIELD – As students close out summer break and begin shopping for school supplies, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced that applications are now being accepted for the Safe Routes to School program. The program provides funding for projects that make walking, biking and rolling to school a safer option for students, encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle from an early age. “Safe Routes to School improvements not only give kids safe, healthy choices to get to school, but they strengthen entire communities,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “We encourage our local partners to apply and look forward to seeing another round of impressive community-led projects.” Administered by IDOT using federal funds, Safe Routes to School advances projects that improve safety and reduce traffic – as well as related fuel consumption and air pollution – in areas around schools from kindergarten through high school. Th

Continue Reading

GRAFTON – Celebrate the last Family Fun Night of the 2025 Season at Raging Rivers WaterPark on Friday, Aug. 1! The park will be open for extra hours, welcoming guests for an evening packed with excitement, food, music, and fireworks. From 6–9 p.m., families and friends can experience the thrill of Raging Rivers’ water attractions after hours. Alongside the splashing fun, the night will feature live music to set the festive mood. Indulge in great eats with the fan-favorite Byrdies food truck on-site, serving up delicious fare available for purchase. As dusk falls, end the evening with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the sky above the Mississippi River, creating unforgettable summer memories for all ages. Admission for this special event is just $19.99 per person online or at the gate for entry from 6 to 9 p.m. Guests are also welcome to enjoy a full day and night at the park with a season pass or a full one-day admission ticket. Don’t miss your chanc

Continue Reading

ALTON - Centerstone and the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services partner to offer support to kids with complex behavioral health needs. The Pathways to Success program works with Medicaid-enrolled kids under age 21 and their families. The program connects families with a care coordinator who will spend time in the family’s home and learn more about what each member needs to be successful and healthy. “The Pathways to Success program is a wraparound program with the goal of building families’ strengths and resiliency,” explained Charity Thompson with Centerstone. “We are working to try to reduce higher needs, crisis intervention, get kids away from inpatient placements and residential placements by providing them with connections to different providers and services in the community.” The care coordinator and the family work together to build child and family teams. These teams might include a pediatrician or therapist a

Continue Reading

GRANITE CITY – A three-day spree of vehicle thefts has yielded felony charges in three different cases against the same local man. George Garcia-Flores, 22, listed as homeless out of Granite City, was charged in three separate cases filed on July 21, 2025, each related to stolen vehicle offenses. Garcia-Flores is charged with committing the following offenses on the following dates: Case 1: July 15, 2025 – Offenses related to motor vehicles (Class 2 felony) Case 2: July 16 – Offenses related to motor vehicles (Class 2 felony) Case 3: July 17 – Aggravated vehicular hijacking (Class X felony), unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle (Class 2 felony), robbery (Class 2 felony). July 18 – Theft (Class 3 felony). Petitions were filed in all three cases by the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office seeking to deny Garcia-Flores’s pretrial release from custody. On July 15, 2025, Garcia-Flores allegedly possessed a GM

Continue Reading

Did you know that engaging children in creative activities can boost their problem-solving skills by up to 50%? Creativity is more than just fun; it’s an essential part of cognitive development, especially for young minds. Involving kids in do-it-yourself (DIY) crafts not only fosters imagination but also enhances fine motor skills, patience, and even teamwork when done in groups. With that in mind, this article explores simple and enjoyable DIY summer crafts that can keep children entertained, stimulated, and proud of their handmade creations. Why DIY Crafts Matter for Children’s Development Creative play is a powerful learning tool. Studies in developmental psychology emphasize that hands-on activities help children develop critical thinking and the ability to adapt to new challenges. When kids make something with their own hands, they learn planning, organization, and the value of effort. Moreover, crafting can be a calming activity, providing a break from screen time

Continue Reading

MADISON COUNTY - Justice Amy Sholar has officially announced her candidacy for continued service on the Illinois Fifth District Appellate Court. Justice Sholar has a strong record of judicial leadership with more than two decades of legal experience. She was appointed to the Fifth District Appellate Court by the Illinois Supreme Court last year and is currently serving in that role. “I’ve dedicated my life to serving our judicial system and I pride myself on the unbiased and fair perspective I bring to the bench,” said Justice Sholar. “I think people don’t always realize that decisions made by the appellate court impact all citizens of our state, from property ownership disputes to ensuring proper handling of criminal cases. It is critical to keep an experienced jurist with a history of fairness serving in this role.” Justice Sholar is seeking election to the seat created by the passing of long serving and respected Justice Thomas M. Welch. The sea

Continue Reading

July 31 has been a day marked by remarkable events that have shaped the course of history across the world. Moving back in history, July 31, 1914, witnessed a critical moment during the early stages of World War I. On this day, the United Kingdom issued an ultimatum to Germany after the invasion of Belgium, demanding withdrawal. When Germany failed to comply, Britain formally declared war on August 4, marking its entry into what would become a devastating global conflict. This diplomatic move underscored the complex alliances and tensions that escalated into the Great War, reshaping geopolitical landscapes for decades. In the realm of civil rights, July 31, 1964, is notable for the passage of the Civil Rights Act in the United States Senate. This landmark legislation aimed to end segregation and discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The act's passage represented a monumental victory for the civil rights movement, setting the foundation for more equitable

Continue Reading

Today's high will reach 76 degrees with a low dipping to 58. Expect cloudy skies through much of the day with a chance of light showers. The weather feels pleasant, and winds will be light from the north-northeast at around 8 mph, gusting up to 23 mph. Humidity will remain high, so it might feel a bit muggy at times. Allergy sufferers should note that mold and grass pollen levels are moderate, with ragweed and tree pollen remaining low. The air quality is moderate, so take it easy if you are sensitive. Looking ahead to tomorrow, expect a warmer day with a high near 79 and a low around 57. Mostly sunny skies will brighten the day, and humidity will drop, making it feel much more comfortable. Winds will come from the northeast at about 8 mph with gusts up to 23 mph. UV levels will be very high, so don't forget your sunscreen if you plan to be outside. For more weather updates, visit https://riverbender.com/weather .

Continue Reading

CHICAGO – Today, Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and Intersect Illinois announced that Illinois has ranked in the top 10 spots across 11 categories on Business Facilities’ 21st Annual Rankings . Illinois ranked number one in nuclear energy with top-ten wins in other categories including: Foreign Direct Investment (#5), Agribusiness (#5), Exports (#5), Wind Power (#5), AI Job Hubs (#6), Cybersecurity Talent (#7), Solar Power (#7), Film and Television (#8), AI Job Market (#9), and MedTech/Medical Devices (#10). “Illinois continues to attract investment, drive innovation, and lead in the industries shaping our future,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “From clean energy to artificial intelligence, our state is proving that future focused policy and strategic investments deliver real results. These rankings reflect the progress we’ve made and the momentum we’re building to ensure Illinois remains

Continue Reading

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) joined President Trump at the White House today for a bill signing ceremony for the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act. The new law, a priority for Bost as chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, creates a VA partial claim program empowering veterans who have fallen behind on their mortgages to receive federal assistance through other available federal housing programs. “It was an honor to stand by President Trump’s side at the White House this afternoon as he signed important legislation into law providing our veterans a lifeline to keep their homes and avoid foreclosure when suffering financial hardship,” said Bost. “The VA Home Loan Program Reform Act will modernize the VA Home Loan to meet veterans’ needs and reduce the risk of veteran homelessness. I was proud to help lead the fight to get this important legislation to President Trump’s desk.” H.R. 1815, the

Continue Reading

SPRINGFIELD — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers to introduce the Local Farmers Feeding Our Communities Act to boost the purchasing and distribution of local food. By restoring the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) and Local Food for Schools (LFS) programs recently cancelled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), this legislation will help build stronger connections between local producers and community food programs, expanding markets, and improving access to healthy food for those in need. “I’m proud to join this bipartisan bill to support our Illinois family farmers and help my constituents access nutritious, locally-grown food,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “In Central and Southern Illinois, the Local Food Purchase Assistance and Local Food for Schools programs have been a win-win-win for growers and producers, food banks, and schools. It was a major setback when these initiatives were abruptly

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville Community Unit School District 7 will host a grand opening and celebration from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, at Lincoln Middle School, 145 West St., to commemorate the building’s 100-year legacy and officially open its new addition and restored 1925 floor. The event will begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 2 p.m. to mark the completion of the expansion project. Attendees will then be invited to take guided tours of the building, led by current and former Lincoln students. The 60,000-square-foot addition includes a competition gym, a storm shelter/annex gym, a library/media center, a commons area, eight classrooms of varying sizes and a multi-purpose room. Combined with the restoration of the original 1925 floor, the project blends modern learning spaces with historic preservation. The date of the event, Aug. 31, marks exactly 100 years since the building originally opened as Edwardsville High School in 1925. “We are proud of Lincoln’s

Continue Reading

ALTON - An article in the Alton Evening Telegraph on July 30, 1925, mentioned that Cordelia Jones, “who for years was Alton’s most popular one-man band,” was back home for a two-week vacation after being on the road for nearly a year. “Twenty years ago, Cordelia Jones was the most popular of pianists for society dances in Alton. She continued her popularity here, but she decided to go away from her old home and take up a life of travel, letting her music pay the expenses.” She left Alton for Hollywood in August 1924, where she played piano for star-studded parties. She then travelled on the Pantages vaudeville circuit through large cities of the west, north, and east. The Telegraph article noted that she was enjoying the tour, but that she had lost about 30 pounds during her travels. Jones stayed with her parents, Louis and Jennie Jones, on Easton Street and planned to rejoin the vaudeville company in Duluth after her Alton visit. However, Cordelia’s

Continue Reading