Riverbender 🕸

GODFREY - Alton Grace United Methodist Church has sold its building and begun offering services at Asbury Village in Godfrey. At 10 a.m. every Sunday, community members are invited to Asbury Village’s chapel for worship. Pastor Alan Abert noted that the services are open to the public. He is excited about this next chapter for the church. “About 18 months ago, we began envisioning what our ministry was going to look like going forward. The second question was, can we do that ministry without the weight of a building?” Pastor Abert shared. “This has been a God moment from beginning to end.” The congregation realized their building wasn’t suited to the growth they wanted. In July 2025, they decided to sell their building, located at 702 Henry Street in Alton, to a church group based out of North County called El Bethel Church of God in Christ. El Bethel COGIC will begin services in the Henry Street building soon. In the meantime, Alton

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GODFREY - The Riverbend CEO program invites community members to join them for a pickleball tournament. The Riverbend CEO program encourages area high school students to learn about entrepreneurship by conceptualizing and starting their own businesses. On Oct. 17 and 18, 2025, at Glazebrook Park in Godfrey, community members can support the program by playing pickleball. “It’s all fun,” said one Riverbend CEO student. “There are prizes. We literally just want everybody to have fun.” The tournaments run from 6–9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 17, and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18. Each day is a new bracket. The students ask players to sign up by Oct. 10. It costs $15 per play or $30 per team to participate. They explained that the money will allow them to start their businesses. “Each fund is for our own separate business,” they said. “Closer to the winter and the spring, we’ll start developing our own businesses.

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Did you know that the average person consumes nearly 9 pounds of chocolate each year? This seemingly simple indulgence has a rich history and cultural significance that spans continents and centuries. International Chocolate Day, celebrated on September 13th, offers a perfect opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of chocolate beyond its sweet taste. From its ancient origins to contemporary culinary innovations, chocolate continues to captivate and inspire. This article explores the origins and significance of International Chocolate Day, highlights unique recipes that elevate chocolate’s versatility, and provides practical tips for incorporating this beloved ingredient into everyday cooking. The Origins and Significance of International Chocolate Day International Chocolate Day is more than just a celebration of a popular treat; it honors the legacy of chocolate’s discovery and its cultural impact worldwide. The date commemorates the birthday of Milton S. Hershey,

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BELLEVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that pavement evaluations on Illinois 13 and Illinois 158 in St. Clair County will take place on Thursday, Sept. 18, weather permitting. The work will require intermittent daytime lane closures at the following locations: Illinois 13 from 23rd Street to Illinois 158 Illinois 158 from Illinois 15 to 0.2 miles east of Rentchler Road Work on Illinois 13 will be completed prior to beginning pavement evaluations on Illinois 158. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes during this closure. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction 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

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) today are expressing their opposition to the Administration’s use of Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL) for support to federal law enforcement operations in Illinois and demanding written confirmation of how the installation is being used. In a letter sent to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem today, the members are calling on the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide answers after DHS’s refusal to meet with the members at NSGL last week. “We are gravely concerned about the decision by the Secretary of Defense to designate U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) installation Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL) as a staging location for U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel for federal law and immigratio

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Chestnut Health Systems offers free NARCAN® and free training on how and when to use it. The free training is virtual, on Zoom, so you can attend without leaving your home. You can attend anonymously. The training is user-friendly, easy and interesting. There are no tests or quizzes. The training is offered every 3rd Thursday of the month at 10:00am and 2:00pm. The next training is scheduled for Sept 18, 2025. To sign up for the next training, or for more information, email mdrainer@chestnut.org . Chestnut also provides free in-person trainings for individuals and groups, such as families, churches, offices, book clubs, libraries, food pantries, homeless shelters, businesses, etc.

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BRIGHTON - Leanne Muenstermann AIFD, CFD, ICD, ICPF, owner and lead designer of Leanne's Pretty Petals, has achieved one of the floral industry's highest honors by being inducted into the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD), an elite organization that recognizes exceptional skill, artistry, and dedication in floral design. With only about 1,250 accredited members worldwide, AIFD represents the pinnacle of professional accomplishment within the floral industry. To earn this distinction, Leanne successfully completed AIFD's rigorous two-part evaluation process. Candidates must first pass an extensive written examination on floral terms, techniques, and traditions, requiring a minimum score of 80%. Those who advance then face the hands-on design evaluation, one of the most demanding tests in the floral industry. Within just 4 hours, candidates are challenged to create five floral designs across required categories: Weddings- designs such as bridal bouquets or wedding part

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GRANITE CITY — Five felony charges were filed against Montez Williams, 36, of Cahokia Heights, following a stolen ambulance pursuit that ended in a crash early Thursday. The incident began on Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, when a patient in a MedStar Ambulance took control of the vehicle shortly after paramedics arrived at Gateway Regional Medical Center in Granite City. A Madison County Sheriff's Deputy spotted the stolen ambulance, prompting a vehicle pursuit that extended through multiple surrounding communities with assistance from several law enforcement agencies. The chase ended on Illinois Route 111 near South Roxana, where the ambulance swerved to avoid spike strips, left the roadway, and rolled over. Williams, the sole occupant, was taken into custody with minor injuries and transported back to Gateway Regional Medical Center for treatment. Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced charges against Williams, including two counts of aggravated battery, two

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HARDIN - Calhoun County Sheriff’s deputies arrested a Jerseyville man after a high-speed traffic stop attempt and subsequent river escape on August 23, 2025. At approximately 6:15 p.m. on Aug. 23, 2025, Calhoun Sheriff William Heffington tried to stop a vehicle near the intersection of Illinois River Road and Royal Landing Road in Calhoun County. The driver fled at a high rate of speed toward the Mississippi River. Deputy Nic McCall arrived to assist in locating the suspect. Several Calhoun County residents reported to sheriff’s officials that the driver had abandoned the vehicle and jumped into the Mississippi River, attempting to swim across. Additional citizens arrived on scene with a boat and helped Deputy McCall apprehend the suspect, who had taken refuge on an island in the river. The suspect was identified as 27-year-old Brendan M. Stamper of Jerseyville. He was arrested on multiple charges, including aggravated DUI — third or subsequent offense, driving while

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — Human remains found in the Columbia Bottom Conservation Area have been positively identified as Steven Reed, 41, of the 600 block of West Canterbury Road in St. Louis, authorities have confirmed. Reed was reported missing under an Endangered Person Advisory issued on August 21, 2025. The remains were discovered on Sept. 8, 2025, at approximately 11:46 a.m. in the 800 block of Strodtman Road within the conservation area, according to the St. Louis County Police Department. Detectives from the Bureau of Crimes Against Persons are actively investigating the case. At this time, the cause of death has not been determined. Authorities have not released additional details as the investigation remains ongoing. The St. Louis County Police Department encourages anyone with information about the case to contact investigators at 636-529-8210. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477), with the possibility of a reward.

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ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Mo. — The St. Charles County Police Department has closed its investigation into the disappearance of 18-year-old Logan Hummel after his body was recovered from the Missouri River, officials announced Friday, Sept. 12, 2025. Hummel was reported missing on Sept. 3, 2025, the same day authorities received reports of a person standing on the ledge of the Veterans Memorial Bridge. When law enforcement arrived, the individual was no longer present, and witnesses believed the person had jumped into the river. Search and rescue efforts were immediately launched but initially yielded no results. During the investigation, police located a vehicle known to have been driven by Hummel and contacted his immediate family. Authorities believed Hummel was the individual seen on the bridge who had entered the river. Earlier this week, a body was found in the Missouri River near the Chain of Rocks Bridge and was subsequently identified as Hummel. With this confirmation, the

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EAST ST. LOUIS – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), along with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), today hosted a Community Day for Metro East residents to learn more about the latest updates on flood mitigation and water infrastructure improvements throughout Cahokia Heights, East St. Louis and the region. Duckworth and Budzinski met with residents, shared their efforts at the federal level to bring funding and oversight to water infrastructure projects throughout the region and received status updates on ongoing improvement projects from USACE and local officials. Photos from today’s event are available on the Senator’s website. “For years I’ve been working to bring awareness to the longstanding flooding and environmental issues that plague this region and bring in more funding and oversight,” Duckworth said. “It took decades of neglect, lack of investment or resources and environmenta

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SPRINGFIELD - On Friday, Governor JB Pritzker signed Executive Order 2025-04 launching a statewide effort to protect vaccine access during the fall respiratory virus season. This Order establishes the Statewide Vaccine Access Initiative, led by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) in partnership with multiple state agencies to ensure Illinoisans can get the vaccines they need and can rely on science-based guidance. It also directs IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra to issue a Standing Order to allow eligible providers in pharmacy and other appropriate clinical settings to administer vaccines recommended by IDPH after consultation with its expert Immunization Advisory Committee (IAC). The Governor’s action today ensures that Illinoisans will be able to receive the immunizations they need during the anticipated rise in seasonal respiratory illnesses later this fall. “This is about making sure no family in Illinois is left wondering if they can protect themselves

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — Devin Marcee, 25, of St. Louis, was charged Friday, Sept. 12, 2025, with multiple counts related to a series of burglaries and attempted thefts across South County and Affton business districts between Aug. 17 and Aug. 29. The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office filed 15 counts of second-degree burglary, three counts of attempted second-degree burglary, one count each of first-degree property damage involving an ATM, attempted motor vehicle theft, and attempted second-degree tampering with a motor vehicle against Marcee. He is currently held on a $250,000 cash-only bond. According to the probable cause statement, Marcee allegedly targeted retail businesses by smashing glass doors and stealing merchandise and cash from registers. The incidents occurred at various locations, including the 2900 block of Telegraph Road, 4200 block of Bayless Avenue, 5500 and 2800 blocks of Telegraph Road, 8400 block of Watson Road, and multiple locations

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ALTON - Riverbend residents are invited to downtown Alton for a day of shopping this weekend. Hosted by Alton Main Street, the “Fall in Love with Downtown Alton” event invites community members to shop local small businesses on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025. Melissa Bland, owner of Honeybee Vintage, shared that the event aims to increase collaboration between downtown businesses while inviting community members to explore the shops. “I’m here today to invite everybody in our community to come downtown to Alton to shop your small brick-and-mortar shops tomorrow during regular business hours all day. Just drop in,” Bland said. “As long as it’s clear and sunny, people should have a good time. Just pick a place to park and go for a stroll.” Honeybee Vintage, Strangelovely, Persnickety by Jen Farley, Party on Broadway, Uncle Jeff’s T-Shirts, Coco+Oak, Funky Planet Toys and Gifts, Elysian Gallery, Mooneyham Art Gallery, Picture Thi

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GRANITE CITY – Two women from Granite City accused of recklessly firing weapons face felony charges in unrelated cases. Shenelle R. Johnson, 43, of Granite City, was charged on Sept. 2, 2025 with a Class X felony count of aggravated battery with a firearm and a Class 3 felony count of felon in possession of a weapon. Johnson allegedly discharged a firearm without legal justification, striking the victim in the shoulder and causing injury on Aug. 29, 2025. According to charging documents, her possession of the “silver handgun” used in the reported battery was unlawful given her previous felony conviction of reckless discharge of a firearm in a prior Madison County case from 2023. The state’s petition to deny Johnson’s pretrial release from custody states the victim reported seeing Johnson “circling the neighborhood” before parking near the victim’s residence. The situation escalated after the victim approached Johnson. “Victim

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ALTON — Marquette Catholic High School will face East Alton-Wood River High School in a football game at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, at Alton Public School Stadium, 1513 State Street, Alton. The game has been moved from its originally scheduled time of 11 a.m. on Saturday. Marquette Catholic Athletic Director Brian Hoener said the Saturday contest time change was made because of the extremely high temperatures predicted during the day for Sept. 13. The National Weather Service predicts a high temperature of 98 degrees on Saturday. The heat index is projected to be as high as 101 degrees, the National Weather Service said on Friday, Sept. 12, 2025. Marquette Catholic is 1-1 overall going into the contest and East Alton-Wood River is 0-2. Jhrodyn Croft is leading the Explorers with an average of 63 rushing yards per game and Kalin McGee, a running back, has four touchdowns so far. He has also rushed for 84 yards total to lead the team. Don'tay Longstreet and Jack Beaber ar

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GRAFTON - Pere Marquette Lodge invites the community to come out to their upcoming Halloween-themed programs. At 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 3, 2025, the lodge will host a Halloween Murder Mystery Dinner Party. This will be followed by the Halloween Paddle Battle pickleball tournament at 5 p.m. on Oct. 4 at Lions Club Park in Jerseyville. The Halloween fun wraps up with the Sippin’ with Spirits Halloween party at 6 p.m. on Oct. 24 at the lodge. “We throw an event out there just to see how it does, and we end up selling it out,” shared Arielle Niemeyer. “I get to meet some amazing people on the way. I have a great job. I’m very lucky.” The dinner party costs $60 to attend, which includes the show, tax, gratuity and dinner. There are ten seats left, and they’re going quickly. Niemeyer noted that Pere Marquette hosts multiple murder mystery dinner parties every year, and they’re always a lot of fun. “It’s a great deal,”

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COLLINSVILLE — Alexis Haynes, a student at Collinsville High School, was awarded her Apprenticeship Certificate at the City Council meeting this week, recognizing her year-long work as a housekeeper at the Gateway Convention Center. The certificate was presented by State Senator Erica Harriss, State Representative Katie Stuart, Collinsville High School teacher Cathy Kulupka, and other officials. Haynes is one of eight students with disabilities to earn the credential through the City of Collinsville Apprenticeship Program since it began in 2021. The program, a collaboration between the City of Collinsville, Madison County Employment & Training Department, Collinsville Community Unit School District #10, the Regional Office of Education, and the U.S. Department of Labor, aims to provide students with disabilities with hands-on experience and training tailored to their abilities and career interests. According to program officials, the apprenticeship offers participants the opportunity

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MARYVILLE/SAINT LOUIS - Community members are invited to support a local nonprofit that provides education, healthcare and housing to children in Zambia. African Vision of Hope, based in Maryville, will host their 25th anniversary gala on Sept. 25, 2025, in St. Louis with special guests Dennis and Laura Quaid. Judi Bertels, who started African Vision of Hope with her husband 26 years ago, shared that the gala aims to raise $200,000 to build more classrooms while finding 40 new monthly donors to support Zambian students’ higher education. “We’re about four things: a Christ-centered education, rescuing children, allowing them to grow up healthy and safe, and also just giving them some critical life skills,” Bertels said. “What I love about working with these children and adults is, they don’t have any expectations. Everything they get is a gift, and every gift they get, they multiply.” Two decades ago, Bertels volunteered to house

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