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Too often, Medicare enrollment and long-term care (LTC) coverage are treated like one-off insurance purchases. In reality, these choices carry long-term financial consequences and should be driven via a thoughtfully constructed retirement income plan in advance of purchase decisions. The retirement income plan provides clarity, leading to better confidence in your decision process. At Genesis Wealth Management Group , Bill Kinkel coordinates healthcare and financial planning with your income strategy, tax planning, and retirement goals so your plan protects both your health and your wealth. Common pitfalls to avoid: Assuming Medicare covers everything. It does not pay for most long-term care or custodial care needs. Delaying LTC planning. Waiting can lead to higher premiums, limited options, or ineligibility due to health changes. Treating healthcare as a line item instead of a strategy. Uncoordinated withdrawals can raise your Medicare premiums and increase taxes.

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JERSEY COUNTY — The Jersey County Sheriff’s Office announced plans to remove six mature trees from the courthouse lawn due to disease and age, officials said. Jersey Sheriff Nick Manns said earlier this year, the office observed that several trees on the courthouse grounds were dying. After consulting with a resource conservationist and a state forester from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, they determined the trees were affected by a combination of disease and natural aging. “Based on their advice, we made the very difficult decision to remove six trees from the lawn to ensure the safety of our citizens and to prevent the death of additional trees,” Manns said in a public service announcement. The sheriff’s office emphasized that the removal is a safety measure and that plans are already underway to plant new trees once the best species are selected to suit the location. The removal process is currently underway, with replanting t

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EDWARDSVILLE – As Halloween approaches, the Edwardsville Police Department is urging everyone to drive sober, buckle up, be alert for pedestrians and follow traffic laws. With children and families out after dark for trick-or-treating and community events, officers will be stepping up enforcement to keep the streets safe. “Driving under the influence — whether from alcohol, cannabis, or any impairing drug — is dangerous and illegal,” said Lt. Matt Senci. “We encourage everyone to plan ahead. If you’ll be celebrating, line up a sober ride, use public transportation, or call a friend.” The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI” campaigns, along with increased traffic enforcement, are funded by federal highway safety grants administered by IDOT. These efforts are supported by the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies across the state. The campaigns are reinforced by IDOT’s

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ALTON – Marquette Catholic High School will present Alice in Wonderland on November 7th and 8th, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. on the Ruth Klaus Stage located at 219 E. 4th Street. Alice in Wonderland is based on the stories of Lewis Carroll and adapted by Jason Pizzarello. It is produced by special arrangement with Stage Partners (www.yourstagepartners.com). After Alice falls down the rabbit hole, mad tea parties, sarcastic caterpillars, depressed turtles and a very irrational queen take stage in a dream-like landscape. According to Ms. Madison Foreman, MCHS Theater and Music Director, twenty-five students are involved in the production as actors and crew. She said, “Working on Jason Pizzarello’s Alice in Wonderland has been a wonderful reminder of how imaginative the students are. They have taken this classic story and made the characters their own. Each character is full of color, curiosity, and of course madness. The students' passion and love for the performing arts have

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EAST ALTON – A local man has been charged with stealing large amounts of copper material from Wieland in East Alton. Jonathan W. Burris, 35, listed as homeless out of East Alton, was charged on Oct. 14, 2025, with a Class 2 felony count of burglary and a Class 3 felony count of theft. On Sept. 13, 2025, Burris allegedly entered a building at 427 N. Shamrock in East Alton, which is property of Wieland, with the intent to commit a theft. He is additionally accused of stealing 19 bundles of copper wire, weighing approximately 740 pounds, with a total value exceeding $500 from Wieland. This occurred just over a week before a separate but similar incident in which a Granite City man was accused of stealing multiple spools of copper wire, compressed copper pucks, and a copper coil condenser from Wieland Recycling in Granite City on Sept. 21, 2025. The case against Burris was presented by the East Alton Police Department, and he has been granted pretrial release from custody.

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GODFREY - A local writer turned Nashville star is returning to the Riverbend for a concert. At 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, Tommy Karlas will bring his music and stories back to Hatheway Hall at Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey. Karlas, a Nashville singer-songwriter, is celebrating 300 million streams as a songwriter and three million streams as a singer. “It’s kind of a full-circle moment to come back,” he said. “They get to hear the stories behind the songs, how they were created, songs that they love, they get to hear how the original version was or the songwriter who wrote it doing it himself. I think there's just a big hunger out there. It's a little bit different than going to a big concert and rocking out. It’s way more intimate.” You can purchase tickets here . A ticket includes admission to the afterparty at the Wood River Moose following the show. Karlas explained that the show itself will be modeled after

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — Gregory Loehr, 64, of the 1200 block of Waldorf Drive in St. Louis, was identified as the pedestrian fatally struck on Oct. 14, 2025, in the 9800 block of Halls Ferry Road, authorities confirmed Monday, Oct. 20, 2025. The St. Louis County Police Department Bureau of Crimes Against Persons and Accident Reconstruction detectives are investigating the incident, which occurred at approximately 7:53 p.m. near Sun Valley Drive. Officers from the North County Precinct responded to a call for a motor vehicle crash and found Loehr had been struck by at least one vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene. Preliminary findings indicate Loehr was in the roadway when the collision occurred. The driver involved remained at the scene and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. Police officials have urged anyone with information about the crash to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210 or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477) to remain

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BRIGHTON - Local author Isaac Sandidge has a new book, inspired by a Brighton staple. “The Curse of Brighton Burgoo: A Brighton Legend” is available now. Sandidge, a Brighton resident, wrote the book as part of his Brighton series that started with “The Legend of the Brighton Werecat” in 2020. He explained that he enjoys writing about his hometown and sharing its quirks with the world. “It’s a lot of fun. There’s some history to it, too. There’s some actual information in these stories,” he said. “Being able to take that and expand on it and just kind of let the creative juices flow, it’s a lot of fun.” Sandidge will host a book reading and signing at the Brighton Public Library District. He’ll be at the Brighton Library at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, and he is eager to meet his fellow Brightonians and share his books. He noted that while there are some “spooky elements” to

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Did you know that gathering around a fire strengthens social bonds more profoundly than many other group activities? Anthropological studies suggest that firelight creates an intimate environment that encourages storytelling, laughter, and a deep sense of connection among participants. Hosting a bonfire, then, is not just about warmth or ambiance—it’s an opportunity to cultivate meaningful moments that linger long after the flames have died down. If you’re planning to host an autumn bonfire, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere requires thoughtful preparation and attention to detail. From safety considerations to comfort and entertainment, this guide will help you orchestrate an unforgettable evening where guests feel both relaxed and engaged. Selecting the Perfect Location and Setup The foundation of any successful bonfire is its location. Safety and accessibility should be your top priorities. Ensure the site is clear of overhanging branches, dry leaves, o

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Did you know that the global candle market is expected to reach over $13 billion by 2027? A significant portion of this demand comes from consumers seeking unique, personalized scents that enhance their living spaces. Among these, fall-scented candles hold a special place, evoking warmth and comfort through carefully blended aromas. Instead of purchasing mass-produced options, making your own fall-scented candles allows you to customize fragrances to your preference, control ingredients, and engage in a rewarding creative process. Understanding the Appeal of Fall Scents Fall scents often combine notes that evoke the essence of harvest, spice, and woodsy undertones. Popular aromas include cinnamon, clove, pumpkin, vanilla, apple, and cedarwood. These fragrances do more than just smell pleasant; they can influence mood by creating a sense of familiarity and relaxation. Studies in aromatherapy suggest that certain scents, such as cinnamon and vanilla, can reduce stress and improve cognitive

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Did you know that leaves can retain their brilliant colors for months when preserved correctly, allowing you to enjoy nature’s artistry long after they’ve fallen? While the fleeting beauty of autumn leaves is often admired outdoors, the ability to immortalize these vibrant hues can transform simple foliage into lasting home décor, craft projects, or even gifts. Preserving fall leaves is both an art and a science, combining careful selection, proper techniques, and a bit of patience. Understanding Why Leaves Change Color Before diving into preservation, it’s useful to understand what makes fall foliage so captivating. Leaves turn shades of red, orange, yellow, and purple due to the breakdown of chlorophyll, revealing underlying pigments like carotenoids and anthocyanins. These pigments, however, are delicate and prone to fading and curling once the leaf detaches from the tree. Preservation methods aim to maintain the leaf’s shape, color, and texture,

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October 20 is a date that has witnessed a variety of significant historical events across the globe. Looking back, October 20 has been a date of many significant historical moments. In 1803, the United States Senate ratified the Louisiana Purchase treaty, doubling the size of the young nation and setting the stage for westward expansion. This acquisition from France added approximately 828,000 square miles of territory, dramatically reshaping the geopolitical landscape of North America and influencing the cultural and economic trajectory of the country. Fast forward to 1944, during World War II, the Battle of Leyte Gulf began in the Philippines. This battle is considered one of the largest naval battles in history and was a decisive victory for the Allied forces. It effectively crippled the Japanese Navy and paved the way for the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation. The battle’s scale and strategic importance had a lasting impact on the Pacific theater and

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WOOD RIVER – The Wood River Business Alliance is excited to announce the annual Downtown Trick or Treat, happening Wednesday, October 22 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. along Ferguson Avenue in Downtown Wood River. This year’s event brings an exciting update — for the first time, Ferguson Avenue will be closed to vehicle traffic during the event hours to ensure a safe, family-friendly experience for all attendees. Children and families are invited to stroll through downtown, visit participating businesses, and enjoy a fun-filled evening of costumes, candy, and community spirit. In addition to downtown storefronts, businesses from throughout Wood River have been invited to join in the fun, making this year’s event the biggest and most collaborative yet. Participants will be set up along Ferguson Avenue, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere that truly captures the spirit of the season. “When we all work together, we make Wood River a better place for everyone,”

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ST. LOUIS - A family’s newly renovated home was destroyed by an uncontrollable fire this week, leaving Dan and Mary Velasquez and their three young children — Elena, 3 months; Luca, 1½; and Axel, 3 — without a place to live. The fire spread from the basement, and thankfully, while the home and belongings were lost, the family escaped unharmed, thanks to Mary's quick actions in saving the children. The Pattonville Fire Department arrived within 10 minutes and fought the fire valiantly until it was out, the family reported. Adrian Octavius Walker, an artist and community builder originally from St. Louis and now residing in Chicago, is advocating on behalf of the Velasquez family with a GoFundMe for them. “Family, connection, and care are at the heart of everything I do,” Walker said in a statement. He emphasized the community’s role in helping the family recover, calling for donations to assist in rebuilding their home. The children’s

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GRAND FORKS, N.D. - More than 500 students graduated from the University of North Dakota (UND) during the school's 104th Summer Commencement ceremony on Aug. 8, 2025 at the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center, in the heart of campus. The UND summer commencement keynote address was delivered by Ryan Zerr, professor and chair of the UND Department of Mathematics & Statistics in the College of Arts & Sciences. Zerr also serves as an associate vice president for Strategy & Implementation at UND. Zerr is a two-time graduate of UND, earning a B.S. in Meteorological Studies and an M.S. in Mathematics in 1996 and 1998. It is a tradition at UND for an esteemed member of the UND faculty to deliver the summer commencement address. HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME, DEGREE, MAJOR(S), HONORS (if listed) Area Grads Brighton, IL Colten Campbell, Bachelor of Business Administration, Airport Management Granite City, IL Nesreen Jaber, Doctor of Philosophy, Counseling Psychology About The University

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GRANITE CITY – Granite City Police have charged three local residents with theft, including one man accused of stealing copper items from Wieland Recycling. Justin E. Ray, 42, of Granite City, was charged on Oct. 16, 2025 with a Class 3 felony count of theft. On Sept. 21, 2025, Ray allegedly stole multiple spools of copper wire, compressed copper pucks, and a copper coil condenser from Wieland Recycling in Granite City. The stolen items had a combined value of over $500. In a separate case, Jennifer D. Hilmes, 60, also of Granite City, was charged with a Class 3 felony count of theft on Oct. 14, 2025. From Aug. 23 to 25, 2025, Hilmes allegedly stole 10 silver bullion U.S. model coins and U.S. Silver Eagle coins, having a combined value of over $500, from an individual victim. In another unrelated case, Amanda J. Bess, 30, of Worden, was charged with two counts of theft, including one Class 3 felony and one Class 4 felony. Bess reportedly stole a Stihl DR600 leaf blower

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will host a public lottery drawing for the allocation of trapping permits for Copperhead Hollow State Fish and Wildlife Area, Mississippi River State Fish and Wildlife Area, and Pere Marquette State Park on Wednesday, Oct. 29. The drawing will take place at the Mississippi River Area site office located at 17836 State Highway 100 North in Grafton. Registration will begin at 11 a.m., and drawings will be conducted at 11:30 a.m. Each area will have permits available. One trapper and one helper may be listed on a permit. Each person entering the drawing must have a valid 2024 or 2025 Illinois trapping license in their possession. Anyone wishing to draw must be present at the time of the drawing. As a reminder, anyone who has not had an Illinois trapping license in the past three years must complete the Illinois trapper education course. Mississippi River Area does not have the ability to sell licenses at the time

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BELLEVILLE - The St. Clair County Transit District (SCCTD), in conjunction with Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT), commissioned a six-month Economic Impact of St. Clair County Transit District study to help quantify the impact public transit has on the economic viability of the local community. The newly released report reveals that SCCTD’s operations have a direct economic impact of $129.5 million each year in St. Clair County, Ill. This and other key findings highlight how the benefits of public transit extend beyond the ride, making it imperative that continued investment is made by the elected officials in Illinois. The study was conducted by Robert M. Lewis, FAICP, CEcD. He is an independent consultant and assistant professor of Urban Planning & Development at Saint Louis University. SCCTD is a relatively small enterprise that employs eight people. Yet, it contracts with Bi-State Development and its Metro Transit enterprise to provide public transportation services

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October 18 and 19 have been dates marked by a fascinating array of events that have shaped history across the globe. Going back, October 18, 1867, saw the formal transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States. Known as Alaska Day, this event marked the official handover of the vast territory, purchased by the U.S. for $7.2 million in what was initially referred to as “Seward’s Folly.” Today, Alaska stands as a vital part of the United States, rich in natural resources and cultural heritage, its acquisition reflecting the strategic foresight of expanding American influence in the Pacific Northwest. In 1931, the first professional rugby league match was played in France, marking the spread of the sport beyond its English origins. This event helped popularize rugby league in Europe, contributing to the rich sporting culture that thrives there today. Additionally, October 18 is the birthday of several notable figures who have made significant contributions to arts

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CHICAGO – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul today joined a multistate lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin for illegally ending a $7 billion program to bring solar energy to more than 900,000 households in low-income and disadvantaged communities across the country. Congress created the Solar for All program in 2022 to offer grants for solar projects in low-income and disadvantaged areas, including a $156 million grant to Illinois. The EPA abruptly and unlawfully terminated the program two months ago and clawed back most of the money already awarded. In Illinois alone, those funds would have helped an estimated 4,000 to 5,300 low-income households each save thousands of dollars by switching to clean energy. “The Solar for All program reduces energy costs and pollution by bringing renewable power to low-income consumers, in Illinois and across the country,” Raoul said. “I remain committed to fighting

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