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BELLEVILLE - The Home Builders & Remodelers of the Metro East Association (HBRMEA) has a busy few months ahead as they gear up for election season and prepare for their 2025 Home Expo. “Our builders are staying busy,” said Shannon Stelling with HBRMEA. “It’s crazy. You talk to our trade partners that support them with supplies or subcontractors that are helping do the work, and they’re busy. They’re not sitting at home collecting unemployment. They’re busy.” Stelling noted that the local HBRMEA chapter and the national association have been focused on finding the right candidates as Election Day approaches. She said it’s a “big priority” to make sure the candidates will support the homebuilding industry. “We’re very engaged with candidates, whether they’re Republican or Democrat, because housing should not be a political issue,” Stelling said. “We’re constantly having conversations

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ALTON – A traffic crash involving a motorcycle and a vehicle occurred on Sunday evening in the 2800 block of Broadway, prompting a response from the Alton Fire Department and Alton Police Department at approximately 5:20 p.m. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered that the motorcyclist sustained serious injuries. The rider was quickly transported to an area hospital for treatment. The condition of the motorcyclist remains unknown. Broadway is closed from Sering Avenue to Brookside Avenue while police conduct an investigation. Further information will be provided as it becomes available.

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October 21, 1978, saw the founding of the first national park in the world, Yellowstone National Park, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Established in 1872, Yellowstone was the first area to be designated as a national park, setting a precedent for conservation efforts globally. This iconic park is renowned for its geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Its establishment marked the beginning of the national park movement, which has inspired the creation of thousands of protected areas around the world, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural beauty for future generations. October 21 is a date that has witnessed significant historical milestones across various fields, including politics, science, and culture. From revolutionary movements to groundbreaking inventions, this day is a remarkable reminder of humanity's capacity for change and progress. Let’s explore some pivotal events that have taken place on this day throughout history. One of th

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As summer fades and the crisp air of fall sets in, it's time to reevaluate your wardrobe. Transitioning from warm-weather wear to cozy, layered outfits can be both exciting and daunting. With the right approach, you can prepare your wardrobe to not only keep you warm but also stylish during this beautiful season. Below, we explore essential steps to help you transition your clothing for fall weather effectively. 1. Assess Your Current Wardrobe Before diving into new purchases, take a moment to evaluate your current collection. This assessment will help you identify what you have, what you need, and what you can let go of. Evaluate Seasonal Pieces Sort by Season : Start by separating your summer clothes from your fall and winter attire. This will give you a clear view of what you currently own. Check for Damage : Inspect your fall clothes for any signs of wear and tear. Look for missing buttons, frayed hems, or stains that need cleaning. Fit and Style : Consider whether you

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BETHALTO - “Surviving the Holidays,” a special free GriefShare event for those in area communities who are grieving the loss of loved ones, will take place at Zion Lutheran Church, Bethalto, on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Adults and teens are invited to hear a presentation about resources, strategies and tools for coping with grief during the holiday season. “Grief and loss are always hard to deal with during the holiday season,” said Rev. Brandon Metcalf of Zion. “Whether the loss was recent or many years ago, this can be a hard time of year, and we want to help and offer hope.” The presentation will focus on how to cope with grief, what to be aware of as the holidays are approaching, and how to find hope in the midst of loss from a Christian viewpoint. Participants will hear from grief experts and people who have experienced a loss and are dealing with grief, as well as from Zion’s pastors, Rev. Kale Hanson and Rev. Brandon

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EDWARDSVILLE – The City’s Wildey Theatre is about to regain some of its former glory and neonfueled glow, courtesy of a renovation underway on the historic downtown venue’s picturesque marquee. Over the next six weeks, workers will painstakingly replace the non-functioning neon-filled tubes that frame the marquee, apply a fresh coat of paint and update some of the other lighting components. Access to the sidewalk underneath the marquee may be limited at times while the project progresses. “These enhancements are going to be a bright and wonderful addition to the Wildey and make this incredible Edwardsville destination stand out even more on Main Street,” Mayor Art Risavy said. When the project is finished, likely by the end of November, it’ll turn back the clock on the marquee by at least 40 years. “I think it’ll look so fresh that people are going to notice. It’s just going to be fabulous,” said Rich Walker, a former City

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O"FALON — October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month to bring awareness about breast cancer, its impact and the importance of early detection and treatment. Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) encourages all women 40 years and older to put yourself first and schedule your mammogram . “With regular mammograms, breast cancer is more likely to be treatable when caught early and mammograms can even detect some forms of pre-cancer before a tumor even develops,” shares Dr. Ryan Jennings, interim Chief Medical Officer of HSHS Southern Illinois Market. “Mammograms are relatively quick, with minimal discomfort and critical to breast cancer prevention and survival. Setting aside 30 minutes every year for your annual mammogram screening could save your life.” According to the American College of Radiology , mammography has helped reduce breast cancer mortality in the U.S. by nearly 40% since 1990. In addition, it reports that out of every

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ALTON - Jocelyn Harris is a local baker with a national following. Harris, who goes by Lady J, specializes in gooey butter cakes. She has sold thousands of cakes across the U.S., but her favorite place to vend is in her hometown of Alton. Whether you find her at the Alton Farmers Market every weekend or run into her at special events like the Alton Expo, you can expect a great dessert courtesy of Lady J’s Gooey Butter. “I’ve had a pretty good year,” Harris said. “I continue to sell at the farmers market here and other local markets around the Metro area, and that goes well. I sell online on my website and on Etsy.” Harris explained that she learned how to bake gooey butter cake from her mother, who made “the best of the best.” Over the years, Harris has figured out the ideal recipe to make her cakes stand out. “I just kept trying it until I perfected it,” she said. “I got the recipe from my mother. She gave m

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EDWARDSVILLE - Sivia Law is proud to announce the addition of two distinguished attorneys, Richard Vitali and Nick Sikes, who bring diverse legal expertise and passion to the firm. Their arrival reinforces Sivia Law’s commitment to providing top-tier legal services to the community. With 43 years of legal experience, Richard Vitali is a seasoned professional who has practiced in various corporate environments, including banking, finance, and casino gaming. Richard earned his Juris Doctor (JD) from Pepperdine Caruso Law in California after completing his undergraduate studies in Political Science at Rutgers University. His extensive career includes serving as Associate General Counsel for Argosy Gaming Company, where he managed legal operations for five gaming properties, as well as serving as General Counsel for Greektown Casino in Detroit. Richard is a resident of the Alton area, where he has lived with his wife, Shannon, since 2002. Together, they have six adult children. Outside

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GODFREY - In support of ‘Churches on the Streets,’ a non-profit organization that helps people in need, the Village of Godfrey is now accepting donations for those affected by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. They are currently making preparations to make their fifth trip to North Carolina with supplies loaded onto a truck and U-Haul trailer. Aside from winter coats, gloves, and hats, please DO NOT make clothing donations. The following will be graciously accepted in Mayor Mike McCormick’s office at Village Hall at 6810 Godfrey Road through next Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024: Tents, all sizes Tarps Emergency blankets Emergency sleeping bags Long stem lighters Thermal gloves Thermal socks Hand/feet warmers Hot hands - Stick on body warmers BBQ propane tanks Camp stoves Heavy blankets Sleeping bags Zero-Degree sleeping bags Five-gallon buckets with Amazon toilet seats Canned heat Survival bags (Amazon) Muck/Rain/Winter Boots (all sizes) Coats (all

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SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois State Police (ISP) continues to target vehicle theft, hijacking, and related violent crimes using grant funding from the Illinois Secretary of State Illinois Vehicle Hijacking and Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention and Insurance Verification Council. ISP was awarded a $10 million grant for the first fiscal year, and another $677,000 grant announced in June 2024. From July through September 2024, ISP missions resulted in the following: Vehicles recovered – stolen and/or hijacked: 210 Stolen vehicle arrests: 17 Hijacked vehicle arrests: 2 Firearms seized as a result of stolen/hijacked vehicle recovery: 11 Missions targeting stolen/hijacked vehicle recovery and related violent crime: 39 K9 used for stolen/hijacked vehicle recovery and related violence crime: 26 Air Operations targeting stolen/hijacked vehicle recovery and related violent crime: 39 Forensic laboratory assignments related to stolen/hijacked vehicle: 1,262 Highlights of ISP vehicle

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CARLINVILLE - Blackburn College recently celebrated two major events highlighting the College’s commitment to athletics and recreation, student life and engagement, and strengthening connections with the Carlinville community. The Dedication of M.C. Court and the celebration of the new Blackburn Athletic Center took place on September 27, marking significant milestones in Blackburn’s Winning Together: A Campaign for Athletics & Enrollment initiative. Both events featured remarks from President Larry K. Lee, Athletic Director Kim Camara-Harvey, current student-athletes, as well as alumni and donors. Dedication of M.C. Court The newly completed M.C. Court, located in Blackburn’s historic Dawes Gymnasium, serves as the competition floor for volleyball and basketball. Named in honor of Marion Elizabeth Carlson, a former educator and administrator at Blackburn, the court commemorates her more than 40 years of dedication to the College. Carlson was instrumental in advancing

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COLLINSVILLE – Starting Monday, October 21, 2024, at 8:30 a.m., motorists on southbound I-55/70 will encounter lane restrictions as the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) undertakes emergency bridge deck patching. The work will take place between mile markers 14 and 13, specifically on the bridge over Keebler Avenue, and is expected to conclude by 3:30 p.m. on Friday, October 25, 2024, weather permitting. During this period, the right lane of the highway will be closed, and the ramps for the southbound weigh station will also be unavailable. IDOT advises that drivers should anticipate delays and plan for additional travel time in this area. Motorists are encouraged to consider alternative routes to avoid the construction zone, if possible. IDOT recommends that drivers remain vigilant by adhering to posted speed limits, avoiding the use of mobile devices, and being alert for workers and equipment in the vicinity. For ongoing updates, IDOT District 8 can be followed o

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GODFREY - Local volunteers came together to plant native trees at Glazebrook and LaVista Parks in Godfrey. On Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, students from Alton High School joined the Village of Godfrey and the Sierra Club Piasa Palisades chapter to plant trees as part of a “Recover, Replant, Restore!” grant from Trees Forever. “It’s great to have the support of Godfrey,” said Virginia Woulfe-Beile with the Sierra Club. “We went to both the Parks Department and the Board of Trustees, and they were very supportive of it.” Woulfe-Beile and Christine Favilla coordinate the Three Rivers Project, which emphasizes environmental education in the Riverbend region. They brought in a field ecology class from Alton High School to help plant the trees at the parks. The Sierra Club worked with the Village of Godfrey and the Godfrey Sustainability Commission to secure the grant through Trees Forever. As a nonprofit, Trees Forever has many forestry initiatives

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EDWARDSVILLE – Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) and the Friends of Art is excited to announce its ANNUAL ART AUCTION on November 8, 2024, with funds raised supporting the Art & Design department’s visiting artist program as well as student scholarships, assistantships, and awards. This long-standing annual event (since 1979) will take place in the ART & DESIGN WEST GALLERY at SIUE, starting with a Preview at 5pm and the LIVE auction at 7pm by local auctioneer Gary Niemeier. This year’s auction will showcase a diverse array of artworks from both local and national artists, faculty, alumni and current students. Some highlights include pieces by Alexander Calder, Pablo Picasso, Victor Vasarely, Thomas Gipe, Daniel Raedeke, Andy Magee, JaimeJo Fisher and many more! Proceeds from the auction provide a unique opportunity for attendees to acquire unique and original pieces while contributing to the growth of the SIUE art community. The auction directly benefit

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GODFREY - To my fellow Godfrey residents, I would like to take a moment to introduce myself and let you all know that I am running for the office of Godfrey Village Clerk. I was born and raised in the area and moved to Godfrey in 2006. I have worked for the Village of Godfrey since 2016; first, in the Assessor’s Office and later, moving to the Parks and Recreation Department when the township was dissolved in 2019. I have pursued additional education and earned multiple certifications through the State of Illinois Property Assessment Institute in order to better serve Godfrey residents. I am interested in pursuing the office of Village Clerk because I know that I can continue to bring my level of dedication and customer service to the Clerk’s position. When Godfrey was first designated a Village, there were services offered within the Clerk’s office that have since been discontinued; I would like to pursue bringing additional services back to Godfrey. As an enthusiastic

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As the air turns crisp and the leaves shift into vibrant hues of orange and gold, fall presents a perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. There’s something special about taking a leisurely walk during this beautiful season, with the scent of pumpkin spice and woodsmoke wafting through the air. To enhance this experience, why not pair your stroll with a captivating podcast? From engaging stories to enlightening discussions, podcasts can provide the perfect backdrop for your autumn walks. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best fall podcasts that will make your walks more enjoyable and enriching. The Benefits of Listening to Podcasts While Walking Before diving into the podcast recommendations, let’s take a moment to discuss why combining walking with podcast listening can be particularly beneficial: Mental Stimulation : Engaging with a podcast can stimulate your mind, making your walk not just a physical activity but also a mental workout. Inspiration

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ALTON - Alton Main Street is preparing for the 100th birthday celebration of Miles Dewey Davis, a jazz trumpeter, bandleader, and composer who was born in Alton, Illinois on May 26th, 1926. In anticipation of the upcoming festivities for one of the most influential and acclaimed figures in the history of jazz and 20th-century music, the organization has commissioned a new public art project by St. Louis-based artist Peat "Eyez" Wollaeger. Eyez has commemorated many notable individuals through their murals all around the country and is known globally for their colorful stencil portraits and large scale murals. Eyez and their intern Nora Baumgart have been busy installing the 12’ x 12’ portrait on the high-visibility wall behind Hiram’s Bar at the corner of Broadway and State Street. Property owner Hiram Lewis had reached out to Alton Main Street in 2023 to offer the opportunity to place a mural on this wall due to the high traffic count which passes by. “Hosting

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ALTON - Fans of Bloody Marys and supporting local veterans will have the perfect opportunity for both at the Riverbend Patriots’ Bloody Mary Competition fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024. From 12 to 4 p.m. at Roper’s Regal Beagle, attendees can try each competitor’s spin on the Bloody Mary for just $25 per person before voting for their favorites. Tickets can be purchased in advance by contacting Riverbend Patriots at (618) 447-9996 or RiverbendPatriots@gmail.com . Riverbend Patriots is a local organization dedicated to helping veterans, service members, and first responders “heal through fellowship and activities,” according to their Facebook page . Dustin Dixon, vice president of Riverbend Patriots, said all proceeds from the event will go to the organization to help them continue their mission. “A bunch of bars and restaurants in the area are bringing their own recipes,” he said. “We’re going to be outside,

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TROY — A St. Louis man died early Friday morning following a motor vehicle crash on Interstate 70, Madison County Coroner Stephen P. Nonn said Friday. The victim, identified as 43-year-old Douglas M. Lodge, 43, succumbed to injuries sustained in the incident at Anderson Hospital in Maryville. The crash occurred at approximately 3:20 a.m. on Friday, October 18, 2024, when Lodge's passenger car struck a guardrail and became disabled in the left-hand lane of the eastbound lanes at the 18.2-mile marker near Troy. Emergency services were notified shortly after the initial collision. As Illinois State Police Troopers were responding to the scene, Lodge's vehicle was subsequently struck by a tractor-trailer at 3:32 a.m. He was transported to Anderson Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased by medical staff at 4:56 a.m. The coroner's office said the preliminary cause of death has been ruled as blunt head trauma, with the final cause pending completion of all reports, including routin

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