Riverbender 🕸

EDWARDSVILLE - Students and community members are invited to pack period products and decorate pumpkins at the upcoming “Pumpkins and Period Packing” event at SIUE. The SIUE chapter of “I Support the Girls” (ISTG), a nonprofit that provides period products and bras to people who need them, will host this event from 3–4:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in the Goshen Lounge on the SIUE campus. Anyone is welcome to come out and help. “We're just trying to raise awareness because there are so many people in our community that are struggling right now,” said Allison Szostak, president of the SIUE chapter of ISTG. “We just hope this event raises awareness about period poverty because most people don’t understand how actually serious it is in today’s world. It has always been around, but it’s much more difficult in today’s time.” ISTG was founded by Dana Marlowe in Washington D.C. Her best friend, Dr. Alicia

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ALTON - The American Red Cross continues to work to restock critically needed blood products uncollected due to the ongoing impact of Hurricane Helene’s devastation in the Southeast. Donors outside of affected areas are encouraged to make an appointment to give now and help keep the blood supply stable in the weeks to come. Since making landfall, the storm and its aftermath have led to the cancellation of more than 100 blood drives, causing thousands of blood and platelet donations to go uncollected. For so many people living with urgent medical care needs, blood transfusions are essential, and donations in the Southeast are key to keeping our nationwide network stocked. The Red Cross operates through a national inventory with the ability to move blood wherever and whenever it is needed most. As a thank-you, all who come to give Oct. 1-31 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. For full

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ALTON - This month, the Hayner Public Library District has a wide range of free programs for people with all different interests. Executive Director Mary Cordes said that this quarter’s newsletter was the longest newsletter that Hayner has ever put out, largely due to the sheer number of events and programs that they have planned. She hopes these events are well-attended, and she looks forward to sharing the library’s resources with the community. “We’ve got a lot going on,” Cordes said. “This is all free.” At 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, at Alton Square Mall, the library will host Wrestling at the Chase: An Evening with Ed Wheatley. Wheatley, a sports historian who believes St. Louis is the greatest sports town in America, will share information about wrestling in the region. Cordes said she has been stopped by many people who tell her how excited they are for the program. Also on Oct. 15, 2024, Hayner’s new

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WOOD RIVER - Community members in Wood River and Bethalto are invited to participate in the upcoming Halloween parades, scheduled for Oct. 26, 2024, and Oct. 28, 2024, respectively. The "Chain Gang," a non-profit group registered with the Illinois Department of Transportation, will be leading the efforts, with military members expected to join in the festivities. The Wood River Halloween Parade will take place at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, with setup beginning at 9:30 a.m. The parade will start at Emerick Park on Sixth Street, proceed south on Sixth to Ferguson Avenue, then west on Ferguson to Wood River Avenue, before ending at Central Park. The Bethalto Halloween Parade, sponsored by the Bethalto Rotary Club, has a line-up set for 6 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 28, 2024, at Rose Lawn Cemetery on the Erwin Plegge side. The parade route will travel down Erwin Plegge and conclude at Bethalto City Hall. Participants are encouraged to bring their children and grandchildren, dressed i

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS — The St. Clair County Health Department is investigating an outbreak of Shigella infections linked to LongHorn Steakhouse, affecting patrons who dined at the establishment between September 21 and October 2, 2024. Health officials are urging anyone who visited the restaurant during this timeframe to complete a survey detailing the food they consumed. The survey aims to help narrow down the specific food items potentially associated with the outbreak. The survey link is accessible through the health department's official channels. According to the health department, Shigella infection can cause symptoms such as fever and diarrhea, which may be bloody. Symptoms typically manifest one to two days after exposure and can last from five to seven days, although some individuals may experience symptoms for several weeks. The department advises individuals with diarrhea to seek medical attention if they experience fever, bloody or prolonged diarrhea, severe stomach cramps,

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GODFREY - Future Trailblazers are invited to visit the Godfrey Campus next Monday, Oct. 14, 2024 to “discover” why more and more students and their families are choosing Lewis and Clark Community College. Representatives from the college’s career and transfer programs will be on hand to give students a glimpse into a variety of professional fields during Discover Day, from 4-6 p.m., in The Commons. Enrollment will also be on site to help students navigate the application and registration process, and student support services will share information on how the college can help keep students successful throughout their educational journey. “Discover Day is a great opportunity for future students to explore different career pathways and how Lewis and Clark can help them get where they want to go,” said Director of Enrollment Management Aamer Chauhdri. “The fact that enrollment continues to increase is a good sign that people are recognizing the

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ALTON - The Hayner Public Library District has an exciting month ahead with “TeenTober,” including plenty of events for teenagers. Megan Dees, who oversees most of the teen programs at Hayner, explained that TeenTober aims to bring more young people to the library. They have several events lined up for this month, and Dees is proud to provide a “nice, safe space” for teens to come, talk and connect with each other. “It’s our TeenTober. We celebrate teens and literacy and we just kind of mix it all up,” Dees said. The monthly Teen Crime Stoppers program invites teens to solve a fictional murder. Dees said this popular program brings in a new participant every month. The next Teen Crime Stoppers event is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, at Alton Square Mall. In the meantime, teens are invited to the first Graphic Novel Writers Guild from 5–6 p.m. on Oct. 9, 2024, at the Alton Square Mall library. This three-part

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BRIGHTON - A man from Brighton has been charged with possessing an AR-15 rifle after his Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) Card had been revoked by police. William C. Wade, Jr., 41, of Brighton, was charged with possession of a firearm with a revoked FOID card, a Class 3 felony. On Sept. 30, 2024, Wade allegedly had “an AR-15 rifle” in his possession after his FOID card had been revoked by the Department of State Police. Jersey County court records indicate Wade was released from custody to seek medical attention. An examination to determine Wade’s fitness to stand trial is set to be conducted after his next hearing on Oct. 16, 2024. The issuance of charges is based solely upon probable cause and is not an indication of guilt. All subjects charged with criminal offenses are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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EAST ALTON - Wieland, a leading global supplier of copper and copper alloy products, has acquired Morgan Bronze Products, Inc., a manufacturer of precision-machined finished parts based in Lake Zurich, IL. The acquisition, which closed on October 7, 2024, is part of Wieland’s strategy to enhance its manufacturing capabilities and expand its engineered products business. Morgan Bronze, a family-owned company established 77 years ago, specializes in producing bushings, bearings, washers, and customized industrial parts. The integration of Morgan Bronze into Wieland's operations aims to bolster the company’s offerings in growth markets, particularly aerospace and defense. Dr. Erwin Mayr, CEO of Wieland, emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition, stating, “By integrating Morgan Bronze, we gain an experienced and skilled team and broaden Wieland’s manufacturing, assembly, and service capabilities for engineered products in North America.” He noted

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Alton, IL – Alton Little Theater (ALT) is adding even more excitement to its upcoming production of Rocky Horror - The Musical ! Fans will have the chance to enter a special raffle to win a photograph from The Rocky Horror Picture Show signed by the legendary Tim Curry. This exclusive piece of pop culture memorabilia is sure to thrill any fan of the iconic film and musical. Raffle Details: Tickets: $5 each, with no limit on entries. Increase your chances by purchasing multiple tickets! Where to Buy: Raffle tickets will be available during all ALT show dates and box office hours. Winner Announcement: The winner will be drawn at intermission during the final matinee on November 3rd, 2024. You don’t need to be present to win, but why not stick around and enjoy the show? This unique opportunity comes alongside ALT’s presentation of Rocky Horror - The Musical , a cult favorite that promises a night of music, laughter, and outrageous fun. Whether you'r

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ALTON – We Work the Waterways, a national education outreach program will host an Industry Interaction Day for high school seniors on October 16th at the National Great Rivers Museum in Alton, Illinois in partnership with maritime stakeholders. The event is an immersive interaction with the maritime, shipping and logistics industries that highlight the importance of our nation’s waterways and the diversity of available career paths. Hundreds of high school students from Alton and surrounding areas will experience visually engaging presentations and interactive stations at the Museum. We Work the Waterways brings the industry to the students; through education, hands-on learning and in-person networking opportunities with maritime representatives. Onsite event displays provide first-hand experiences with skills such as line throwing and knot tying. Students will also learn more about the industry in their own community and the lifelong career paths the waterways

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Welcome to This Day in History for October 8th! As we delve into the significant events that have shaped our world on this date, we uncover stories of triumph, tragedy, and transformation. In 1982, we find a significant cultural moment as the first edition of the beloved television show 'Cheers' premiered. Set in a Boston bar, this series became a staple of American television, running for 11 seasons and winning numerous awards. 'Cheers' introduced audiences to an ensemble cast of unforgettable characters, including Sam Malone, Diane Chambers, and Norm Peterson. The show's clever writing and relatable themes of friendship and community made it a hit, and it continues to be celebrated in popular culture today. The iconic theme song 'Where Everybody Knows Your Name' perfectly encapsulated the show's spirit, making it not just a show, but an experience that connected generations. On the international stage, October 8th also marks the anniversary of the 1991 Nobel Peace Prize awarded

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BELLEVILLE — The American Red Cross continues to work to restock critically needed blood products uncollected due to the ongoing impact of Hurricane Helene’s devastation in the Southeast. Donors outside of affected areas are encouraged to make an appointment to give now and help keep the blood supply stable in the weeks to come. The time to give blood or platelets is now. Bring hope to those in need by visiting RedCrossBlood.org , calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. As the Red Cross continues to urge people to give blood or platelets now, our teams are also on the ground providing vital relief − like food, water, shelter and support − in communities devastated by Hurricane Helene. If you’re able to help those impacted by disasters big and small across the country, like Helene, please consider making a gift of any amount. All who come to give blood, platelets or plasma Oct. 1-31 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card

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ALTON - This National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Challenge Unlimited is calling for employers to hire people with disabilities. Stephanie Schrage, marketing manager with Challenge Unlimited, noted that there are 749,000 people in Illinois who have disabilities between the ages of 18–64, and only 49% of this population is employed. She said this “untapped workforce” wants to work, and Challenge Unlimited has programs to help make this happen. “We want to raise awareness around the fact that these individuals are ready to work, willing to work,” Schrage said. “Through Challenge Unlimited in particular, we offer training programs and job coaching.” National Disability Employment Awareness Month has been an annual recognition since 1988. This year’s theme is “Access to Good Jobs for All.” As more people are diagnosed with neurodivergent conditions, the number of people with disabilities in the U.S. is increasing.

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BELLEVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that intermittent daytime lane closures will take place on Lebanon Road from West Boulevard to Cross Street in St. Clair County, weather permitting, on Thursday, Oct. 10. The lane closures are necessary for the evaluation of pavement conditions. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all 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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MADISON COUNTY - Illinois State Police Troop 8 is investigating a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 55 northbound at Illinois Route 4 in Madison County at 12:33 p.m. on Oct. 7, 2024. ISP said the following from a preliminary investigation into the crash: "The investigation indicates the following occurred: ISP Troop 8 responded to the location above for the report of a single-vehicle crash involving a commercial motor vehicle. "Unit 1, a Freightliner Truck Tractor Semi-Trailer was traveling northbound on I-55, when for unknown reasons, it left swerved and left the roadway, causing the trailer to overturn. No injuries were reported at the scene." The crash investigation remains open and there is no further information available for release at this time.

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ALTON - Officer wellness is a top priority at the Alton Police Department. Sacred Spaces of CARE, a local nonprofit that focuses on mental health and substance use, has partnered with the Alton Police Department to promote officer wellness. With wellness initiatives and increased support within the department, the goal is to help officers process trauma and make healthy choices. “We’re people too, and that’s what everybody kind of forgets sometimes,” said APD Lieutenant James Siatos. “We have to be kind of a light switch sometimes. Especially in the city of Alton here, we do have a lot of critical incidents that do happen here. There is violent crime here in Alton. So you’ll respond to a critical incident and then an hour later you could be at home bouncing a 2-year-old on your knee, playing with your kids." Siatos is a peer coordinator within the department, meaning he works closely with Sacred Spaces founder Megan Tyler. Together, they

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COLLINSVILLE — Representative Katie Stuart will visit the Collinsville Area Vocational Center (CAVC) expansion site at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, to review the construction plans and grounds. Stuart played a key role in securing $25 million in funding from the State of Illinois for the project. Stuart was invited to the site by Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich and CAVC Director Joe McGinnis, who will accompany her during the visit. The event will provide an opportunity for attendees to learn more about the expansion, view construction plans and renderings. The new CAVC facility aims to enhance Career and Technical Education in the region, marking a significant investment in local education. Further information regarding the event will be provided to attendees.

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PEORIA – OSF HealthCare is pleased to announce the appointment of Sister Agnes Joseph Williams, O.S.F., as the new Major Superior of The Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis, effective October 6. Joining her in leadership for the next six years are Sister Judith Ann Duvall, O.S.F., Sister Theresa Ann Brazeau, O.S.F., Sister Rose Therese Mann, O.S.F., and Sister Teresa Paul Selamat, O.S.F., who will serve as her council in guiding the Mission and Ministry of OSF HealthCare. Sister Agnes Joseph succeeds Sister Judith Ann, who has faithfully led The Sisters for the past 18 years. Under Sister Judith Ann’s leadership, OSF HealthCare has grown into one of the largest Catholic health systems in Illinois, staying true to its Mission of serving with the greatest care and love. Her unwavering commitment to our faith-driven Ministry has left an indelible mark on the communities we serve. "We are deeply grateful to Sister Judith Ann for her remarkable leadership, devotion, and

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GODFREY - Village Dispensary will host their first Fall Festival. From 12–5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024, community members can enjoy vendors, cultivators, discounts and deals at Village Dispensary in Godfrey. The dispensary will also sponsor a food drive where you can bring one bag of nonperishable food items to get 10% off your purchase. Alli and Allison, two representatives from Village Dispensary, noted that they care about helping the community. “We’re very community-focused,” Alli said. “That’s what we care about, genuinely. It’s easy when you care that much.” Their food drive will start on Oct. 19, 2024, and run through Thanksgiving, with proceeds benefiting several food pantries in the Riverbend region. Once a week, you can bring in one bag of nonperishable food items to get your 10% discount. The Fall Festival also marks the dispensary’s “half-birthday.” They have been open for six months at 11

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