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BUZZ MAGAZINE - Everyone knows that community is important. A community is a place made up of people just like you and me, and it’s up to us to take care of our own individual communities. A community is a place where people come together to celebrate, learn or just have fun. Community offers a sense of comfort, peace, safety and support, memories, and hopefully, unity. These are the ties that bind the business and people of a community together. These are the reasons that communities have things such as homecoming celebrations, parades and seasonal events. If a community lets these things meet their demise, everyone suffers. Such a calamity threatened the small community of Litchfield not so long ago. For a time, community celebrations and events were juggled between dwindling organizations, such as the now disbanded Jaycees and the Rotary Club, until there was no one left willing to take charge and coordinate to continue events. That is, until a group of businesses owners

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BUZZ MAGAZINE - Laura Boehm was a teacher in Carlinville for 12 years. For 12 years, she drove past an old building on the corner where West Main meets North West Street, just a block off the downtown square. Something about the building pulled at her heart, but she wasn’t sure why. The building was empty, and in a state of deterioration, yet she felt there was something majestic hidden behind the locked door. Then, in October of 2022, she noticed a for sale sign in the window. She excitedly told her husband Eric and they set an appointment to see the inside. “The building was in pretty rough shape, but I envisioned setting up shop inside,”Laura said. “We had my parents come and take a look and they said, ‘Absolutely do not get yourself into this, it’s too much.’” Laura’s mother, Jane Settles, knows a thing or two about owning a business. She has over 20 years experience in home decor/retail, owning and operating Lula Bells

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ALTON - A new apartment complex is taking shape in Alton, as construction progresses on the Sunnybrook development located in the 800 block of Washington Avenue. The complex construction work is shown above by 618 Drone photos. The project, which will feature multi-level buildings, is set to include 10 four-plex townhouses, totaling 40 residences, along with a community building spanning 2,000 square feet. Alton Mayor David Goins expressed optimism about the development, stating, “It seems like the shells of the building are going up and the project is moving well.” He added that the new apartments will be a great asset for the Alton community and its residents. The Sunnybrook development will occupy seven acres and is designed to enhance community engagement. Planned amenities include a one-acre natural green space complete with a walking path, a 50 x 40-foot playground, and a 50 x 50-foot hard surface play court. The development will also feature concrete streets

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ALTON - A new apartment complex is taking shape in Alton, as construction progresses on the Sunnybrook development located in the 800 block of Washington Avenue. The complex construction work is shown above by 618 Drone photos. The project, which will feature multi-level buildings, is set to include 10 four-plex townhouses, totaling 40 residences, along with a community building spanning 2,000 square feet. Alton Mayor David Goins expressed optimism about the development, stating, “It seems like the shells of the building are going up and the project is moving well.” He added that the new apartments will be a great asset for the Alton community and its residents. The Sunnybrook development will occupy seven acres and is designed to enhance community engagement. Planned amenities include a one-acre natural green space complete with a walking path, a 50 x 40-foot playground, and a 50 x 50-foot hard surface play court. The development will also feature concrete streets

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WOOD RIVER - A woman from Wood River was charged with storing a loaded firearm in her 5-year-old child’s backpack after using the weapon during a domestic dispute. Lanita L. Gore, 27, of Wood River, was charged with aggravated battery, a Class 3 felony, and endangering the life or health of a child, a Class A misdemeanor. On Sept. 17, 2024, Gore allegedly used a 9mm handgun to strike a victim in the head during a domestic dispute. She was additionally charged after reportedly storing the firearm in her child’s backpack. A petition to deny Gore’s pretrial release states she “initially lied to police about being armed during this incident, claiming that the victim was the aggressor.” “She also lied about the location of her firearm, which was eventually found by police in her 5-year-old child's backpack,” the petition adds. A Release Order was later filed denying the petition to keep Gore detained, instead granting her pretrial release

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WOOD RIVER - A woman from Wood River was charged with storing a loaded firearm in her 5-year-old child’s backpack after using the weapon during a domestic dispute. Lanita L. Gore, 27, of Wood River, was charged with aggravated battery, a Class 3 felony, and endangering the life or health of a child, a Class A misdemeanor. On Sept. 17, 2024, Gore allegedly used a 9mm handgun to strike a victim in the head during a domestic dispute. She was additionally charged after reportedly storing the firearm in her child’s backpack. A petition to deny Gore’s pretrial release states she “initially lied to police about being armed during this incident, claiming that the victim was the aggressor.” “She also lied about the location of her firearm, which was eventually found by police in her 5-year-old child's backpack,” the petition adds. A Release Order was later filed denying the petition to keep Gore detained, instead granting her pretrial release

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EDWARDSVILLE – Brendan McKee was appointed to serve as the next fire chief for the Edwardsville Fire Department, receiving unanimous approval from the City Council at the Tuesday, October 1, meeting. McKee will step in to the role later this month to replace Chief James Whiteford, who is retiring after 28 years with the department. McKee has been Edwardsville’s deputy chief since 2020. “Our community has benefited tremendously from the leadership and professionalism of Fire Chief James Whiteford. We are equally fortunate that he surrounded himself with a team of unparalleled expertise, experience and dedication,” Mayor Art Risavy said. “Deputy Chief Brendan McKee exemplifies that kind of professional depth. He is well known as a fire service expert; he is well regarded and well respected in Edwardsville and throughout the region.” McKee will officially take over as chief after Whiteford’s final day on the job, Friday, October 11. That same day,

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EDWARDSVILLE – Brendan McKee was appointed to serve as the next fire chief for the Edwardsville Fire Department, receiving unanimous approval from the City Council at the Tuesday, October 1, meeting. McKee will step in to the role later this month to replace Chief James Whiteford, who is retiring after 28 years with the department. McKee has been Edwardsville’s deputy chief since 2020. “Our community has benefited tremendously from the leadership and professionalism of Fire Chief James Whiteford. We are equally fortunate that he surrounded himself with a team of unparalleled expertise, experience and dedication,” Mayor Art Risavy said. “Deputy Chief Brendan McKee exemplifies that kind of professional depth. He is well known as a fire service expert; he is well regarded and well respected in Edwardsville and throughout the region.” McKee will officially take over as chief after Whiteford’s final day on the job, Friday, October 11. That same day,

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COLLINSVILLE — Ameren Illinois and the Illinois Raptor Center are collaborating to provide an educational experience for students at Maryville School in Granite City, focusing on birds of prey. The event, titled "Wild about Wildlife," will take place on Friday, Oct. 4, at 12:45 p.m. at 4651 Maryville Road in Granite City. The presentation will allow children from kindergarten through fifth grade to observe various raptors, including hawks, owls, and falcons, up close. The Illinois Raptor Center, a non-profit organization based in Decatur, rehabilitates native animals and promotes conservation education. The raptors featured in the program have been rehabilitated but are unable to return to the wild, making them suitable for educational outreach. Ameren Illinois has been proactive in avian protection for over a decade, implementing an Avian Protection Program aimed at safeguarding birds of prey and migratory species from potential hazards associated with utility infrastructure.

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COLLINSVILLE — Ameren Illinois and the Illinois Raptor Center are collaborating to provide an educational experience for students at Maryville School in Granite City, focusing on birds of prey. The event, titled "Wild about Wildlife," will take place on Friday, Oct. 4, at 12:45 p.m. at 4651 Maryville Road in Granite City. The presentation will allow children from kindergarten through fifth grade to observe various raptors, including hawks, owls, and falcons, up close. The Illinois Raptor Center, a non-profit organization based in Decatur, rehabilitates native animals and promotes conservation education. The raptors featured in the program have been rehabilitated but are unable to return to the wild, making them suitable for educational outreach. Ameren Illinois has been proactive in avian protection for over a decade, implementing an Avian Protection Program aimed at safeguarding birds of prey and migratory species from potential hazards associated with utility infrastructure.

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This October, the region is brimming with a wide variety of events that cater to every interest, from festive fall festivals and vibrant markets to thrilling haunted attractions and enriching cultural experiences. For a complete listing of events happening in the area, be sure to visit https://www.riverbender.com/events/ . If you want to make sure even more of the region is aware of your event email cj@riverbender.com and explore our range of Event Promotion Services! Featured Celebrate Cougar Nation: SIUE Homecoming & Family Weekend invites you and your family to an unforgettable weekend from October 4-6, filled with memorable events and activities. This event is designed for community members, alumni, and students. Highlights include COUGARFEST with live music by Dr. Zhivegas, a Homecoming Run, a pancake breakfast, a Cougar Fan Zone, and a men’s soccer game featuring a halftime fireworks display. Check out their website for more details and a full listing of events.

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This October, the region is brimming with a wide variety of events that cater to every interest, from festive fall festivals and vibrant markets to thrilling haunted attractions and enriching cultural experiences. For a complete listing of events happening in the area, be sure to visit https://www.riverbender.com/events/ . If you want to make sure even more of the region is aware of your event email cj@riverbender.com and explore our range of Event Promotion Services! Featured Celebrate Cougar Nation: SIUE Homecoming & Family Weekend invites you and your family to an unforgettable weekend from October 4-6, filled with memorable events and activities. This event is designed for community members, alumni, and students. Highlights include COUGARFEST with live music by Dr. Zhivegas, a Homecoming Run, a pancake breakfast, a Cougar Fan Zone, and a men’s soccer game featuring a halftime fireworks display. Check out their website for more details and a full listing of events.

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BETHALTO - The Speed Demons Car Club of Bunker Hill might keep all four wheels on the ground, but that didn’t stop them from enjoying the 28th Annual Wings & Wheels Fly-In at the St. Louis Regional Airport. At the event on Sept. 28, 2024, members of the Speed Demons showed off their cars and enjoyed each other’s company. Mark, president and founder of Speed Demons, explained that the club has 40 members and “just keeps growing.” “It was just a tight community,” he said. “We all had hotrods, and we wanted a place to meet together and create a little group because we all had the same interests. We just have fun together. It’s like extending your family.” The Speed Demons Car Club is all about “cool, American-made cars,” Mark said. When they first started hosting events, they would have maybe 15 cars. Now, they regularly welcome over 200 cars to their car shows, including their show at the Wings & Wheels Fly-In.

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BETHALTO - The Speed Demons Car Club of Bunker Hill might keep all four wheels on the ground, but that didn’t stop them from enjoying the 28th Annual Wings & Wheels Fly-In at the St. Louis Regional Airport. At the event on Sept. 28, 2024, members of the Speed Demons showed off their cars and enjoyed each other’s company. Mark, president and founder of Speed Demons, explained that the club has 40 members and “just keeps growing.” “It was just a tight community,” he said. “We all had hotrods, and we wanted a place to meet together and create a little group because we all had the same interests. We just have fun together. It’s like extending your family.” The Speed Demons Car Club is all about “cool, American-made cars,” Mark said. When they first started hosting events, they would have maybe 15 cars. Now, they regularly welcome over 200 cars to their car shows, including their show at the Wings & Wheels Fly-In.

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BELLEVILLE — Belleville East High School has welcomed back one of its own for this school year as Tina Knapp joined the English department. Knapp, a graduate of Belleville East, brings a decade of teaching experience to the role, having previously worked in District 90 and District 118. Knapp earned her bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) and is currently pursuing a master's degree in diversity and equity at the same institution. She is a mother of two, with a twelve-year-old daughter, Avery, and a seven-year-old son, Dexter, alongside her two pit bulls, Andi and Sully. In her personal life, Knapp enjoys a variety of outdoor activities, including barbecuing, playing volleyball, and hiking, as well as spending quality time with her children. Tina cites her mother, Debby, as her greatest inspiration, describing her as the "kindest and most sincere woman" she has ever met.

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BELLEVILLE — Belleville East High School has welcomed back one of its own for this school year as Tina Knapp joined the English department. Knapp, a graduate of Belleville East, brings a decade of teaching experience to the role, having previously worked in District 90 and District 118. Knapp earned her bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) and is currently pursuing a master's degree in diversity and equity at the same institution. She is a mother of two, with a twelve-year-old daughter, Avery, and a seven-year-old son, Dexter, alongside her two pit bulls, Andi and Sully. In her personal life, Knapp enjoys a variety of outdoor activities, including barbecuing, playing volleyball, and hiking, as well as spending quality time with her children. Tina cites her mother, Debby, as her greatest inspiration, describing her as the "kindest and most sincere woman" she has ever met.

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GODFREY - The Godfrey Village Board of Trustees voted on Tuesday to approve pay raises for the Mayor, Village Board, and Village Clerk. These salary increases will not take effect until after the April 1, 2025 municipal election, but they spurred some discussion at this week’s meeting. A newly approved ordinance lays out the updated salaries for each position. The “Village President,” another term for “Mayor” according to the Illinois Municipal Code , will be paid $70,000 annually from 2025 to 2026. They will also receive yearly raises of $5,000, ending with an $85,000 salary from 2028 to 2029. Mayor Mike McCormick spoke against the proposed raises for the mayor’s position, stating he had a “problem” with them being so much higher than the raises for other village staff. “A $15,000 raise for a share results in an almost 30% increase - we don't give our employees anywhere close to that,” McCormick said. “Originally

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GODFREY - The Godfrey Village Board of Trustees voted on Tuesday to approve pay raises for the Mayor, Village Board, and Village Clerk. These salary increases will not take effect until after the April 1, 2025 municipal election, but they spurred some discussion at this week’s meeting. A newly approved ordinance lays out the updated salaries for each position. The “Village President,” another term for “Mayor” according to the Illinois Municipal Code , will be paid $70,000 annually from 2025 to 2026. They will also receive yearly raises of $5,000, ending with an $85,000 salary from 2028 to 2029. Mayor Mike McCormick spoke against the proposed raises for the mayor’s position, stating he had a “problem” with them being so much higher than the raises for other village staff. “A $15,000 raise for a share results in an almost 30% increase - we don't give our employees anywhere close to that,” McCormick said. “Originally

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COLLINSVILLE – Remington Paris has been named Officer of the Month for August by the Collinsville Police Department, marking a significant milestone in his early career. Paris recently completed a 14-week field training program, finishing in July, and August was his first full month serving as a solo patrol officer. The department recognized his achievements in a statement, highlighting the rapid progression he has made since joining the force. "That is a fast start to what we believe will be a long and successful career," the statement read. The police department concluded their announcement with encouragement for Paris, stating, "Congratulations Officer Paris and keep up the great work for our citizens."

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COLLINSVILLE – Remington Paris has been named Officer of the Month for August by the Collinsville Police Department, marking a significant milestone in his early career. Paris recently completed a 14-week field training program, finishing in July, and August was his first full month serving as a solo patrol officer. The department recognized his achievements in a statement, highlighting the rapid progression he has made since joining the force. "That is a fast start to what we believe will be a long and successful career," the statement read. The police department concluded their announcement with encouragement for Paris, stating, "Congratulations Officer Paris and keep up the great work for our citizens."

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