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SPRINGFIELD – When you think of the Illinois State Fair, you probably think of food. From sweet to savory, tasty options are available around every corner. But you may not have the appetite – or the budget – to eat everything. That’s why the Illinois State Fair offers Small Plates, Big Tastes . For just $3, you can get sample size portions from any Village of Cultures vendor, allowing you to save money while trying all the food you want. “We wanted to give fairgoers a way to ‘travel’ around the world in the Village of Cultures without breaking the bank,” said Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark . “The sample-size portions allow fairgoers to try foods from many different parts of the world, and if they enjoy what they try, they can go back for the full-size portion!” The popular “Feeding Frenzy” also returns in 2024. The “Jaws” theme song will be played over loudspeakers to mark the beginning

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DOW - The 33rd Annual Olden Days Festival is returning to Dow on Aug. 24-25, 2024, with a variety of activities, food, and more “under the windmill” on the Tri-County Antique Club grounds at 23946 IL-3 in Dow. Tom Bechtold, treasurer for the Tri-County Antique Club, shared more about this year’s festival on Our Daily Show! on Riverbender.com . “It’s a unique thing that’s one of a kind in this area,” Bechtold said. “It’s a fun time for a family-oriented affair, it really is. Everybody can enjoy themselves, the kids enjoy themselves.” Admission to the festival is $5, except for exhibitors and children ages 12 and under, who can get in for free. The grounds will open at 7 a.m. on Saturday morning, Aug. 24, 2024, when Bechtold said the public is invited to a breakfast with pancakes, biscuits and gravy, egg casserole, coffee, juice, and milk. Breakfast will also be served from 7 to 10 a.m. on Sunday morning.

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ALTON - Community members are invited to an “All 80s Alton Mixer.” From 4–11 p.m. on Sept. 7, 2024, anyone who attended high school in Alton in the 80s can stop by Mac’s Downtown for a block party. Complete with bands, food and drinks, the night promises to be a fun experience for all attendees. “It’s going to be a blast. We’re going to see some people that we haven't seen in a really long time,” said Tom Pullen. “If you’re into 80s music and you’re into hanging out, just come down. It’ll be fun.” Tom, who organized the event with his wife, Jamie Pullen, and Cami Giertz, noted that this mixer is not a class reunion. Anyone is welcome to come, though there’s a preference for people who graduated in the 80s. But Giertz and Tom joked that they won’t be carding anyone at the door or checking old copies of Alton High School’s “Tattler” yearbooks. Mac’s will offer

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WOOD RIVER - The Wood River Main Street Business Alliance has an exciting season ahead. Kristen Burns, director of Wood River Main Street, explained that they’ve been “very busy” with new businesses and investors who are interested in vacant buildings downtown. They also have several events planned for the next few months. Burns is eager to share more about what Wood River Main Street does and how the organization can help business owners. “Everybody seems to be coming together a lot better than I thought we would,” Burns said. “We have a great group of partners that have come up, and they see the good and they see the need for the Main Street…We could not do what we do without the support of our city and the support of our city officials. Man, we really do have great people that are in Wood River.” Wood River Main Street will host their second movie night on Aug. 9, 2024, at Central Park. This will be followed by a concert

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ALTON - Harbor Music Co. musicians have two things: a story and a soul. Harbor Music Co., an independent record label in Alton, helps connect indie musicians with people and resources so they can share their music with a wider audience. Owner Nick Bifano — the organizer of the Mississippi River Festival — said that Harbor aims to support musicians who put their “hearts and souls” into their work. “If you boil it down, really, the crux of what we’re doing is just connecting people, which is a beautiful thing,” Bifano said. “I really feel that that’s what Harbor’s goal is, to sort of be the center of the wheel, to connect people to the right conversations, the right resources, the right doorways and opportunities so that they can have the greatest chance of success.” The record label also runs a private recording studio and live music promotion company out of Alton. They help bands connect with gigs, graphic designers

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The introduction of this amendment follows the unprecedented Supreme Court decision in Trump v. United States , in which the Court determined that immunity from criminal prosecution covers a President’s “official acts” WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and 26 of their Senate colleagues in introducing a constitutional amendment making clear that no one in the United States is above the law, including the President. In response to the Supreme Court’s unprecedented decision last month that Presidents are immune from prosecution for “official” actions, the amendment would clarify that Presidents and other federal officeholders are, in fact, accountable to the law for their actions. Specifically, the amendment states that every person holding a position of authority under the United States

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EDWARDSVILLE — The Madison County State's Attorney's Office has filed criminal charges against a woman following an alleged abduction attempt on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, on North Main Street in Edwardsville. The Edwardsville Police Department responded to the 200 block of North Main Street shortly after 10 a.m. Thursday after receiving several 911 calls reporting a child abduction in progress. Multiple police units arrived at the scene and located the child. Authorities determined that the female suspect had fled the scene but was quickly apprehended inside the Madison County Administration building. The suspect has been identified as Jennifer S. Haley, 60. Haley was transported to the Madison County Jail, where she remains in custody. The Madison County State's Attorney's Office has charged her with three counts: Attempted Aggravated Kidnapping Aggravated Battery Unlawful Restraint The Edwardsville Police Department is urging anyone with information related to

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EDWARDSVILLE — McKenna Vereeke earned the title of first runner-up in the Miss Illinois 2024 pageant held in Marion, Illinois. This marks the second time Vereeke has achieved first runner-up in this competition. "I felt so incredibly honored competing against so many talented and intelligent women across the state," Vereeke said. "I felt I belonged up there and was honored to be so close to getting the opportunity." Vereeke, who won her local title as Miss Heart of Illinois, spent an entire year preparing for the state pageant. Her preparation included extensive community service, practicing her talent for violin performance, and working with local directors and their teams on mock interviews. "The private interview was the most intimidating part," Vereeke noted. "Miss Illinois is like a job interview and an interview for grad school combined." The competition spanned from June 10 to 15, 2024, and included a variety of segments such as a 10-minute private interview, fitness

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Edwardsville, Illinois - Jay Keeven, candidate for State Representative is proud to announce the endorsement of the National Federation of Independent Business in his upcoming election. "Small businesses provide great local jobs and local economic growth," said Keeven. "I'm running for State Representative to bring common sense back to state government. Small businesses have faced big challenges recently, with state mandates, forced COVID closures, changes in the workforce, and inflation. I will support small businesses and greater opportunities here in Illinois. I’m proud of this endorsement from the NFIB and their thousands of hardworking members." "Legislators in Springfield have repeatedly voted for more mandates and regulations on small businesses, even in an era of elevated inflation and qualified-worker shortages," said Noah Finley, Illinois State Director for NFIB. "It's important to change the mindset in Springfield. Instead of layering red tape on Illinois' small

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COLUMBIA – In a concerted effort to combat human trafficking, the Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Trafficking Enforcement Bureau arrested five individuals during a two-day operation in Monroe County. The enforcement action, which took place from July 31 to August 1, 2024, in the Columbia area, targeted individuals seeking to engage in commercial sex acts. The operation led to the arrest and charging of the following individuals: - Deepak Chiluveru, 24, of St. Louis, Mo., charged with indecent solicitation of a child (Class 3 Felony), traveling to meet a child (Class 3 Felony), grooming (Class 4 Felony), and solicitation to meet a child (Class 4 Felony). - Tuan M. Huynh, 34, of St. Louis, Mo., charged with indecent solicitation of a child (Class 3 Felony), traveling to meet a child (Class 3 Felony), grooming (Class 4 Felony), solicitation to meet a child (Class 4 Felony), and armed violence (Class X Felony). - Leslie M. Johnson, 56, of St. Louis,

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BELLEVILLE — The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of K9 Havik, who died unexpectedly on Friday, July 26, 2024. Havik, a 9 1/2-year-old Black German Shepherd, had been a dedicated member of the department since he was 14 months old, serving alongside Sheriff Lee Hilty. The St. Clair County Sheriff's Office said throughout his career, Havik was instrumental in numerous narcotic arrests and deployments, contributing to the safe apprehension of suspects and the recovery of lost citizens. His dedication and service earned him a special place in the hearts of both the department and the community. “Havik’s drive was to always do the best he could and his playful presence will be missed,” the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office stated. “K9 Havik was a big part in our department and in the community. Havik’s love for work and for everyone around him was seen in his eyes every day. We are grateful for the time and dedication

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Office of Admissions at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville announced today that the fall 2025 admission applications are open. Undergraduate and graduate students may apply online at siue.edu/apply . "Students and families continue to seek out SIUE as a top-quality choice for higher education in Illinois and the Greater St. Louis area," said Samantha Ray, director of undergraduate admissions. "Graduates from SIUE earn more on average than other Illinois universities while being charged significantly less for tuition. At SIUE, we seek to make upward socioeconomic mobility possible for everyone." The $40 undergraduate application fee is being waived through December 1. There is a graduate application fee of $40. SAT/ACT scores are not required for admission consideration. For scholarship consideration, students are encouraged to apply by December 1. SIUE offers several need- and merit-based scholarships for undergraduate students, including the prestigious

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CHICAGO – This August, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is celebrating National Black Business Month. Through the Office of Minority Economic Empowerment (OMEE), DCEO will host a series of virtual and in-person events highlighting Black businesses, organizations, and community leaders while also providing resources to Black businesses and entrepreneurs. This monthlong celebration will also include a social media campaign inviting and encouraging Illinoisans to shop Black-owned businesses through the “Shop Black Saturdays” social media campaign. Information about resources and events can be found on the DCEO website . “Black-owned businesses are the heart and soul of our state's economic success,” said Governor JB Pritzker . “This Black Business Month, we celebrate and honor the incredible contributions of Black entrepreneurs who drive innovation and enrich our communities. I couldn't be happier to join th

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– U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) this week in introducing a bicameral resolution aimed at encouraging the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide a pathway for individuals who have been unjustly deported from the United States to return and reunite with their families. The Chance to Come Home Resolution calls on DHS to use its legal authority to establish a centralized and independent process for reviewing emergency requests from individuals who were wrongfully removed from the country. “Far too many men and women have been cruelly, wrongfully deported—separating them from their families and the country they’ve come to love,” said Duckworth. “The immigrants who reside in America are our teachers, servicemembers, business owners, essential workers and more. For all that they contribute to our nation, I am proud to help Senator Booker introduce this resolution that advocates for a fair, humane

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ALTON - Country megastar Scotty McCreery said he’s excited to take the Alton Amphitheater stage on Aug. 9, 2024 as the amphitheater's first country act since 2018 draws closer. McCreery shared more insights into the upcoming performance on Our Daily Show! on Riverbender.com . While he’s been around the St. Louis region before, the amphitheater concert will be McCreery’s first-ever visit to Alton. “I’ve been around the St. Louis area a bunch,” McCreery said. “I’m not sure we’ve been to Alton specifically, so I’m excited to get there and see everybody and get to know the town.” He added that he’s especially excited to perform some hits from his latest album, “Rise & Fall.” “I really think it’s the best response to an album I’ve gotten the whole way through - and for me, I’m glad to hear that, because I poured my heart and soul into this record and love every single

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ALTON - After lots of hard work and preparation, Alton Little Theater is officially kicking off their production of “ Oliver! The Musical ,” with showtimes starting tonight (Friday, Aug. 2, 2024) and running throughout the month of August. Executive Director Lee Cox shared more about the musical as it draws closer on Our Daily Show! on Riverbender.com . She said Sunday’s show has completely sold out, with less than 20 tickets remaining for opening night. While ticket sales are going well for the remaining dates, Cox emphasized there are still plenty of tickets left to purchase by visiting altonlittletheater.org or calling the Box Office at 618-462-3205. Cox said the “Oliver!” cast, which features several young talents and some first-time on-stage actors, “are so excited” to take the stage at ALT. While they’re already hesitant to see rehearsals end, Cox said she’s preparing a pizza party for the cast after the sho

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Photos courtesy of 618 Drone Service . ST. LOUIS - For over a century, two mysterious old buildings have stood above the Mississippi River on tiny, island-like platforms. Visitors near and far may wonder what they’re still doing there today, and what purpose they once served - and the answers might surprise them. According to the City of St . Louis website, these are Intake Water Tower #1 and Intake Water Tower #2 . Located just off the Missouri coast near the Chain of Rocks bridge, both buildings originally helped supply water to the city, which was experiencing rapid population growth during their construction. Today, they’re both classified as city landmarks, as they have been since 1971. Tower #1 was built in 1894 and was designed in a “Richardsonian Romanesque style” by architect William Eames. The structure includes “an asymmetrically-placed turret with a conical roof, and rusticated limestone facades,” and once housed “living

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MADISON COUNTY – The Madison County Sheriff's Office conducted a traffic safety campaign throughout July, aiming to remind motorists to slow down to save lives. The initiative, which involved collaboration with other state and local law enforcement agencies across Illinois, sought to reduce highway fatalities. During the campaign, the Madison County Sheriff's Office issued 35 speeding citations, made one felony arrest, cited three individuals for driving with suspended or revoked licenses, and issued 11 citations to uninsured motorists. Additionally, 22 other traffic-related citations were handed out. The speed enforcement effort was supported by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. "We are committed to ensuring the safety of our roadways," the Madison County Sheriff's Office stated. "By enforcing speed limits and other traffic laws, we aim to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities on our highways." The campaign highlights

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FAIRMONT CITY – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced lane restrictions will be encountered on eastbound I-70 beginning Monday, August 5, 2024, at 7 a.m. through Thursday, August 9, 2024, at 4 p.m. Weather permitting, the right lane will be closed between the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge and the on ramp from Packers Ave. All entrance and exit ramps at Packers Ave will remain open. These restrictions are needed to do drainage repair work. IDOT Day Labor forces will make the needed improvements. Full access will be restored as soon as possible. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.

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ALTON - The 17 Pearls Foundation is inviting the Alton, IL community to a special Bicycle Helmet Giveaway event on Aug. 10, 2024 from 5-8 p.m. at James Killion Park in Alton, IL. BIKEWISE, a program of the 17 Pearls Foundation, is grant funded by the Agency for Community Transit (ACT) and aims to promote safety and wellness among school-aged children in the Alton, IL area. The St. Louis Children's Hospital will be on-site to ensure that each bicycle helmet is properly fitted, providing expert guidance to help guarantee maximum protection. "We are excited to host this event and provide our community's children with the safety gear they need," said Danielle Bratton, President, 17 Pearls Foundation. "Thanks to the generous support of ACT and the expertise of St. Louis Children's Hospital, we can make a significant impact on our children's safety." The event will feature fun activities for the whole family, including educational sessions on bike safety, refreshments, and the opportunity

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