Riverbender 🕸

BELLEVILLE — The St. Clair County Health Department (SCCHD) has continued to investigate a Shigella outbreak linked to the LongHorn Steakhouse in Fairview Heights, which has affected at least 24 individuals since late September. The outbreak has prompted health officials to monitor additional reports of illness and implement corrective measures at the restaurant. As of Oct. 11, 2024, the SCCHD reported that 24 individuals tested positive for Shigella bacteria, while an additional 44 people have reported symptoms consistent with Shigellosis after dining at the establishment between Sept. 20 and Sept. 30, 2024. Among those affected, nine have been hospitalized. The age range of those impacted spans from 12 to 80 years. In response to the outbreak, LongHorn Steakhouse voluntarily closed its Fairview Heights location on Oct. 2, 2024, and is fully cooperating with health authorities. SCCHD has conducted environmental assessments of the restaurant and provided guidance on safe food

Continue Reading

SHILOH — A 16-year-old boy is recovering in the hospital after being shot multiple times in a gas station parking lot. The incident occurred just before 8 p.m. on Oct. 11, 2024, at the Kings Mart located at 1551 Hartman Lane in Shiloh. According to investigators, the victim briefly entered the convenience store before collapsing outside. He was transported to a local hospital, where he is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The Shiloh Police Department has taken one person into custody in connection with the shooting. Authorities have stated that this individual is not the shooter but had prior knowledge of a planned assault at the gas station. Police are actively searching for a dark grey Kia with heavy window tint, which they believe is connected to the incident. Law enforcement officials have indicated that this was not a random act of violence. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The Shiloh Police

Continue Reading

FOSTERBURG - The Foster Township History museum will be holding an open house on October 19, 2024. The open house coincides with the Fosterburg Fire Department’s annual Pork Chop Dinner. The museum will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., allowing people ample time to see the collection of artifacts, maps, and historic photographs either before or after they have enjoyed their meal at the fire department. The historical displays include exhibits on the one-room school houses, coal mining, 1948 Tornado, the Civil War, agriculture, churches, and family histories. The museum is located one block north of the Fire Department, at 4810 Fosterburg Road, across from the Presbyterian Church. For information call 618-259-0726 or visit the Foster Township website.

Continue Reading

GODFREY - The Great Godfrey Maze will be open on Monday, Oct. 14, 2024. From 12–6 p.m. on Oct. 14, families can enjoy the maze and activities. The maze is typically only open on weekends, but Chris Logan, Godfrey’s Parks and Recreation director, explained that the maze will be open on Monday because so many schools are off for Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Logan hopes to see many families come out on Monday to enjoy the maze. “It’s always fun to see the kids and families come,” he said. “It gets bigger and bigger every year, and it’s exciting and we’re happy to do it.” Admission to the Great Godfrey Maze costs $7 for adults ages 12 and up and $5 for kids under age 12. Children ages 5 and under are free. The cow train, wagon rides and jumping pillow cost $2, and the corn crib is free and aimed for children under age 11. Combo pricing is available. You can also purchase a Great Godfrey Maze t-shirt for $20.

Continue Reading

Welcome to this day in history, where we take a closer look at significant events that occurred on October 14th throughout the years. One of the most monumental events that took place on October 14, 1947, was when U.S. Air Force Captain Charles "Chuck" Yeager became the first person to break the sound barrier. This moment marked a significant milestone in aviation history and opened new doors for future aerospace exploration. Yeager piloted the Bell X-1, a rocket-powered aircraft, and his successful flight at Mach 1.06 over the Mojave Desert in California changed the landscape of aviation technology forever. It was a moment of triumph not only for Yeager but for the entire field of aeronautics, proving that human ingenuity could conquer the skies. Fast forward to 1964, on this day, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his nonviolent struggle against racial inequality in the United States. At just 35 years old, King became the youngest recipient of this

Continue Reading

On October 12 and 13, we take a step back in time to explore remarkable events that have shaped our world. One of the most impactful events in history that took place on October 12 is Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas in 1492. Columbus, an Italian explorer sailing under the Spanish flag, set out on a mission to find a new route to Asia but instead stumbled upon the islands of the Caribbean. This event marked the beginning of a new era of exploration and colonization, fundamentally transforming the course of history for both the Old and New Worlds. The consequences of Columbus's voyages would echo for centuries, leading to the exchange of cultures, goods, and ideas that have shaped modern civilization. In 1976, October 12 became a notable date in the realm of sports when the first ever World Series game was played under the lights, as the New York Yankees faced the Cincinnati Reds. This event not only marked a technological advancement in the world of sports but also

Continue Reading

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Police (ISP) welcomed 35 new troopers today from Cadet Class 148 at a graduation ceremony at the Illinois State Police Academy in Springfield. The new troopers will report to seven different Troops throughout the state on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Cadet Class 148 marks the 20th cadet class graduation under Governor JB Pritzker and ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. Since 2019, 565 troopers have joined ISP. A total of eight of the troopers are from the Collinsville/Litchfield state police branches. “On behalf of the State of Illinois, I would like to congratulate Cadet Class 148 on their graduation from the Illinois State Police Academy,” said Governor JB Pritzker . “Since I took office, my administration has welcomed 565 new troopers, including the 35 brave men and women who now begin the next chapter of their career in law enforcement. Today, we honor the commitment they’ve made to the people of Illinois and

Continue Reading

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois’ archery deer season is underway, and the Department of Natural Resources is reminding hunters of key dates, regulations, and safety practices for the season. Illinois’ statewide archery deer season opened Oct. 1. In counties with a firearm deer season and west of Illinois 47 in Kane County, archery hunting will be open for three periods: Oct. 1 through Nov. 21 Nov. 25 through Dec. 4 Dec. 9 through Jan. 19 Archery deer season runs Oct. 1 through Jan. 19 in counties with no firearm deer season, including Cook, DuPage, Lake, and east of Illinois 47 in Kane County. Restricted Archery Zone Only antlered deer may be harvested during the Oct. 1-31 period of archery season in Champaign, Douglas, Macon, Moultrie, and Piatt counties to improve the deer population in those counties. An antlered deer is defined as having at least one antler 3 inches or longer. Harvest limits Hunters should also note regulations regarding harvest limits.

Continue Reading

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) reminds waterfowl hunters of key dates and other information for the 2024-2025 waterfowl seasons. Season information This is the fourth year of a five-year waterfowl season plan that was developed in 2020. Rail season (sora and Virginia only) is open statewide in all zones from Sept. 7 until Nov. 15, with a daily bag limit of 25 and possession limit of 75. Snipe season is open statewide in all zones from Sept. 7 to Dec. 22, with a daily bag limit of eight and possession limit of 24. As temperatures fall and migration proceeds, Illinois will open the regular duck, Canada goose, and snow goose seasons on Oct. 19 in the north zone, Oct. 26 in the central zone, Nov. 16 in the south-central zone, and Nov. 30 in the south zone. (Early Canada goose and teal hunting closed Sept. 15 and Sept. 22, respectively.) White-fronted goose (specklebellies) season will open Oct. 21 in the north zone, Nov. 5 in the central

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville - The Meridian Society invites the community to “An Evening of Harmony: There Will Be Light,” an inaugural choral concert celebrating the power of music and the spirit of giving. The event will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 22, in the Dunham Hall Theater, starting with a cocktail and networking reception at 6:30 p.m., followed by the choral concert featuring the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Choral Union, Treble Choir and Concert Chorale at 7:30 p.m. The Meridian Society, a women’s philanthropic and leadership organization, has long been dedicated to supporting community-based projects. Most recently, they funded the SIUE Music Department’s Summer Orff Institute, which provided essential teacher training, especially benefiting music educators in rural school districts. The collaboration with the Department of Music continues to inspire and create lasting impacts. Ethel Shanklin, EdD, President

Continue Reading

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is accepting applications for the 2024 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award (JLYLA), Secretary Alexi Giannoulias announced. The award celebrates the efforts of young Illinoisans between the ages of 18 to 25 who have made exceptional civic contributions to their communities. The John Lewis Youth Leadership Award, established by the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS), honors the late Congressman John Lewis’ impact and extraordinary accomplishments throughout his career. Lewis advocated for civil and voting rights and consistently encouraged young people to actively participate in the democratic process. In his youth, Lewis was integral to the Civil Rights Movement as chairman of the Student Nonviolence Coordinating Committee (SNCC), one of the original 13 Freedom Riders and one of the lead organizers of the March on Washington. “John Lewis dedicated his life to bringing equality, freedom and justice

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville- The Meridian Society invites the community to “An Evening of Harmony: There Will Be Light,” an inaugural choral concert celebrating the power of music and the spirit of giving. The event will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 22, in the Dunham Hall Theater, starting with a cocktail and networking reception at 6:30 p.m., followed by the choral concert featuring the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Choral Union, Treble Choir and Concert Chorale at 7:30 p.m. The Meridian Society, a women’s philanthropic and leadership organization, has long been dedicated to supporting community-based projects. Most recently, they funded the SIUE Music Department’s Summer Orff Institute, which provided essential teacher training, especially benefiting music educators in rural school districts. The collaboration with the Department of Music continues to inspire and create lasting impacts. Ethel Shanklin, EdD, President o

Continue Reading

ALTON - Local historian Jared Hennings will host the Freedom to Equality tours to highlight the Riverbend’s Black history. On Oct. 19 and Nov. 16, 2024, Hennings will guide attendees through a shuttle tour around Alton and Godfrey to several local landmarks. From the Underground Railroad to the 13th Amendment, the history behind each stop will share more about Alton’s African American community and historical significance. “I must say, it does broaden my appreciation for where I live,” Hennings said. “It makes me realize that I really live in a very special area. I think people, once they take the tour, they feel likewise, because a lot of this information, you probably just drive by. You do not realize that all of this fantastic history is a part of where we live. It is something that makes you more appreciative as to where you live, as to how your life integrates with where you live.” The tours, sponsored by the Great Rivers and Routes

Continue Reading

WOOD RIVER - Wood River City Council members this week voted to pursue the creation of a dog park and pocket park in the city’s downtown. City Manager Steve Palen requested to seek bids for both a “Wood River Downtown Pocket Park” and a “Wood River Downtown Dog Park.” Both requests were approved, and the city is now seeking bids for both projects. The parks will be located at 217-223 E. Ferguson Ave., according to Palen. The estimated cost for the dog park is $100,000, while the pocket park is estimated to cost $150,000. Palen said the pocket park will be maintained by the city and feature several amenities. “There’s a bandstand, there’s going to be public bathrooms, there’ll be some seating benches, potentially some outside areas to eat,” Palen said. “It’ll be surrounded by a decorative keystone wall, so it’ll look nice,” he added. He also said the city may look into installing permanent

Continue Reading

ALTON — A ribbon-cutting ceremony at James Killion Park on Thursday evening, Oct. 10, 2024, marked the opening of new restrooms and water fountains, a long-awaited enhancement to the community’s facilities. Sheila Goins, one of the coordinators of the event and wife of Alton Mayor David Goins expressed her enthusiasm for the occasion, stating, "We are thrilled to celebrate a monumental evening." The ceremony was attended by a number of dignitaries, including Mayor David Goins, State Representative Amy Elik, and city officials Alderman Meehan and Alderwoman Rosetta Brown. The family of the late James Killion Jr. and School Board member Tiana Gibson were also present." Goins also thanked John Keller and the Riverbend Growth Association for their participation." Goins highlighted the significance of the event, noting that it fulfilled a promise made by Mayor Goins in 2021 to restore these essential amenities. She acknowledged former Alton Park Director Mike Haynes for his contribution

Continue Reading

GRANITE CITY - Employees of Revity Credit Union united during the month of September to raise $1,206.94 in support of Billie’s Kids Christmas through their Revel for a Cause Jeans Program. The Revel for a Cause Jeans Program is an employee funded program that gives Revity Credit Union employees the opportunity to support the credit union philosophy of people helping people. By making a monthly, monetary donation to a local organization, Revity Credit Union employees can wear jeans and tennis shoes on Fridays and Saturdays during that month. At Revity Credit Union, our commitment lies in supporting our community and prioritizing our members' well-being. Revity has proudly selected Billie’s Kids Christmas as the recipient of their Revel for a Cause donation. During the month of September, Revity Credit Union employees donated $1,206.94 to Billie’s Kids Christmas. Billie's Kids Christmas is an initiative that aims to bring joy and festive cheer to children in need,

Continue Reading

SWANSEA - State Senator Christopher Belt is joining the Illinois State Board of Education in inviting residents to nominate a local school board member for the Thomas Lay Burroughs Award, which is presented annually to an outstanding member of an Illinois school board. “I served four years on a local school board and know firsthand how important their duties are,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “School board members put care and quality into their districts to enhance the value of our students’ education. If you know a board member who has continued to make a positive impact on their school district, I urge you to nominate them for this respected award.” The Thomas Lay Burroughs Award was created in 1991 in memory of late ISBE Chairman Tom Burroughs and is presented each November at a conference hosted jointly by the Illinois Association of School Boards, the Illinois Association of School Administrators and the Illinois Association of School Business Officials.

Continue Reading

WOOD RIVER – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that intermittent daytime lane closures will take place on Illinois 143 from West Ferguson Avenue/Short Avenue (Wood River) to Illinois 157 (Edwardsville) in Madison County beginning, weather permitting, Tuesday, Oct. 15, through Thursday, Oct. 17. The lane closures are necessary for the evaluation of pavement conditions. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all 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 GettingAroundIllinois.com.

Continue Reading

CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker, Governor Tony Evers, and Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued the following joint statement: "Four years ago, during the very worst of the COVID-19 pandemic, as Governors of our states, we were engaged in a 24/7 effort to obtain critical medical supplies for our people. It was a terrifying time, and the federal government abandoned us to fend for ourselves. No one knew how deadly the pandemic would turn out to be, and our hospitals were struggling to treat patients and protect their staff. The federal government, under the leadership of then-President Donald Trump, had completely abdicated responsibility. They ignored our requests for help to get testing kits, ventilators, and N-95 masks. As we grappled with worldwide shortages, the former President flat out refused to deploy the Defense Production Act to manufacture these critical supplies here at home, putting our people at the mercy of price gouging foreign suppliers. Putting pride and partisanship

Continue Reading

SPRINGFIELD - This week, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) marked the designation of the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument alongside Senator Dick Durbin, Senator Tammy Duckworth, local leaders from the NAACP and ACLU, and officials from the Department of the Interior and White House Council on Environmental Quality at a ceremony in Springfield. “The 1908 Springfield Race Riot is deeply significant for our community and our country, both as a horrific example of racial violence and as a pivotal moment in civil rights history,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “Telling the story of our past is essential to build a future with true justice and equality, but for too long this tragedy has not received the acknowledgment it deserves. This new national monument is an important step forward to honor those killed in 1908, reckon with America’s history of racial violence and recognize the resilience of the Black community. I was proud to work with Senator

Continue Reading