Riverbender 🕸

SAINT LOUIS - This Father’s Day, skip the neckties and novelty mugs — and give Dad the celebration he deserves at the 2025 Annual Father’s Day Brunch hosted by 612North Event Space + Catering. Taking place on Sunday, June 15, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, this unforgettable event offers breathtaking views, an extraordinary menu, and family-friendly fun — all nestled in the heart of downtown St. Louis at the scenic VUE on the 5th floor of 612 North 2nd Street. Enjoy an hour and a half of unlimited indulgence with our All-You-Can-Eat Brunch, featuring more than 30 hand-crafted items including: Prime Rib & Sausage Carving Station Korean Fried Chicken and Waffle Station Bagels & Lox Biscuits and Gravy Spinach & Feta Quiche Classic Breakfast Favorites Antipasto Dishes Assorted Pastries & Fresh Fruit "Pick-Your-Own" Donut Wall And much more! Don’t forget to capture the memories with our interactive photo booth, perfect for families

Continue Reading

SWANSEA – State Senator Christopher Belt secured a combined total of over $8 million for multi-use paths and bike trails in Belleville, O’Fallon and Venice. The grant was awarded under the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. “These investments are a direct result of strong local partnerships and thoughtful planning at the community level,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “I’m grateful to help bring state resources home to support projects that enhance quality of life across our district." The City of O’Fallon was awarded $3 million to construct a 10-foot-wide shared use path along Highway 50, stretching from Community Park all the way to the McKendree MetroRecPlex. The City of Belleville was awarded $3 million for the West Belleville Bike Trail Phase II project, which will connect the west end of the city with the MetroLink Belleville Bikeway on the east side of Belleville.

Continue Reading

JERSEYVILLE/HIGHLAND - Rulito Videla is a fifth-generation clown who can’t wait to perform for Riverbend audiences at Carden Circus next week . On May 27, 2025, in Jerseyville, and May 29, 2025, in Highland, community members can enjoy Carden Circus , an international act with motorcycle stunts, archery, aerialists, animals and more fun for people of all ages to enjoy. Videla looks forward to sharing his bits with the community, and he emphasized that the “magic” of the circus resonates with everyone. “No matter your race, color, size or where you’re from, everyone has a good time at the circus,” Videla said. “It’s just incredible because when I’m performing onstage and I look into the audience, I get to see their reactions, and I can see a whole family just laughing or creating this memory that they’ll never forget. That’s the beauty of the circus.” In Jerseyville, the show starts at 7 p.m. on

Continue Reading

ALTON – An Alton man faces multiple felonies after recklessly fleeing from police at high speeds, stealing scrap materials and household items, and possessing methamphetamine. Eugene A. Covington, 54, of Alton, was charged on May 12, 2025 with one count of theft, two counts of aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer, and one count of unlawful possession of methamphetamine (a Class 3 felony). Covington allegedly stole various household items and scrap materials from the victim on May 10, 2025. He had previously been convicted of theft over $300 in a 2004 Madison County case. He also reportedly fled from police at speeds over 21 mph over the legal speed limit and possessed less than five grams of methamphetamine at the time of the incident. A petition was filed to deny Covington’s pretrial release, stating the incident unfolded after Madison County Sheriff’s Deputies attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle Covington was driving near East Drive in

Continue Reading

PHOTOS: Newly promoted Edwardsville Police Lieutenant Matthew Senci, new Police Sergeant Marcus Wagner, new Assistant Fire Chief Mark Mayfield and his father, new Fire Captain Jake Sweetman and family, new Fire Captain Jeremy Paschall and family. EDWARDSVILLE – Edwardsville saw some Police and Fire Department personnel promoted and police equipment purchases approved at the latest City Council meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Within the Edwardsville Police Department, Marcus Wagner was promoted to the rank of sergeant, while Matthew Senci was promoted to lieutenant. Fire Department promotions included new Fire Captains Jeremy Paschall and Jake Sweetman, as well as new Assistant Fire Chief Mark Mayfield. “Having such a high-quality Police Department and Fire Department is a great source of pride – not only for myself, but for the aldermen,” Mayor Art Risavy said. “We’re very grateful for the level of expertise and the sacrifice that you make.”

Continue Reading

CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today won a court order stopping the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education. On March 13, Raoul, as part of a coalition of 21 attorneys general, sued the administration after it announced plans to eliminate half of the department’s workforce. “The Department of Education plays a crucial role in protecting K-12 education for all Americans – from ensuring that students with disabilities have equal access to classrooms, to protecting students from discrimination and harassment,” Raoul said. “The Trump administration’s actions are unlawful, unconstitutional and most severely harm students who have the most need for the department’s programs and services. I’m pleased with the court’s decision, and I will continue to stand with my colleagues to ensure all children have the opportunity of a quality education.” In Illinois, the court’s

Continue Reading

Did you know that Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day and dates back to the aftermath of the Civil War, making it one of the oldest federal holidays in the United States? This day, often associated with barbecues and sales, holds a profound significance as a national moment of remembrance for those who sacrificed their lives in military service. Understanding the origins and customs of Memorial Day weekend reveals layers of American history and reveals how collective memory shapes national identity. Origins of Memorial Day: From Decoration Day to National Observance The roots of Memorial Day trace back to the years following the Civil War, a conflict that left over 600,000 Americans dead. In the wake of such a devastating loss, communities sought ways to honor the fallen soldiers. The earliest recorded observance took place on May 30, 1868, when General John A. Logan, leader of the Grand Army of the Republic, called for a nationwide day to decorate the graves of Union

Continue Reading

May 23 has been a date marked by transformative events across the globe, each shaping history in unique and profound ways. The most impactful event associated with May 23 is undoubtedly the symbolic culmination of the Berlin Wall's fall in 1989. While the initial breach occurred on November 9, 1989, May 23, 1990, marks the final official dismantling of the wall segments in East Berlin, signaling an irreversible step towards German reunification and the end of Cold War divisions in Europe. This moment not only represented the physical removal of barriers but also the ideological collapse of separation between East and West, symbolizing hope, freedom, and the triumph of unity over division. Traveling back in time, in 1430, Joan of Arc, a pivotal figure in the Hundred Years' War, was captured by Burgundian forces allied with the English. Her capture led to her trial and eventual martyrdom, but her legacy as a symbol of courage and resistance endures to this day. In the realm of science

Continue Reading

GRANITE CITY – On Friday, May 16, 2025, Granite City was hit by an EF-3 Tornado impacting a two to three-mile area across the community causing significant neighborhood damage. “City personnel were able to mobilize quickly clearing roads, protecting the public from down powerlines and assessing the damage.” Mayor Mike Parkinson said. “We are continuing with the clean-up efforts and encourage residents to reach out by calling the United Way 211 emergency number for any assistance with further clean-up or other critical needs.” The City anticipates a two to three-week clean-up process and is in the critical stage of still assessing any community or resident’s urgent and critical needs. Call United Way 211: If you suffered storm related damage and still in need of clean-up or other urgent/critical needs assistance, please dial 211 or 1(800) 427-4626 to be connected to a certified resource specialist. Additional information and damage details will

Continue Reading

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that lanes that have been closed for construction will reopen, where possible, for the Memorial Day holiday to minimize travel disruption. Non-emergency closures will be suspended from 3 p.m. Friday, May 23, to 11:59 p.m. Monday, May 26. The following lane closures will remain in place during the holiday weekend. The public can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through these areas. 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 stay alert for workers and equipment. At all times, please buckle and drive sober. District 1 City of Chicago Kennedy Expressway (Interstate 90/94) reversible lanes; outbound only, lane reductions continue. Foster Avenue over the Kennedy; closed. Westbound Foster Avenue ramp to outbound Kennedy; closed. Eastbound Ohio Street feeder ramp betwee

Continue Reading

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt passed a measure through the Senate to make college admissions for high school juniors, seniors and community college transfer students a simpler process. “To encourage more students to stay in Illinois for college, we need to make applying as simple and accessible as possible,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “We’ve made great strides in improving the admissions process in recent years, and this measure moves us even further in the right direction.” House Bill 3522 would reduce barriers for students by offering direct admission to qualified applicants at all public universities and community colleges that participate in the program. Under the legislation, students would no longer face the burden of repeated application processes or unnecessary application fees, ensuring a smoother transition into postsecondary education. Students would be able to elect to participate in the direct enrollment program through

Continue Reading

MADISON – Two local women were charged on the same day with burglarizing the same residence in Madison. Joni M. Wilkinson, 38, of Granite City, and Sandra C. Crook, 38, of Madison, were both charged on May 14, 2025 with Class 2 felony counts of burglary. On March 7, 2025, the two allegedly entered the same residence in the 2000 block of McCasland Ave. in Madison without authority and with the intent to commit a theft. The Madison Police Department presented the cases against Wilkinson and Crook. Both were granted pretrial release from custody. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Continue Reading

GODFREY/WOOD RIVER – Two cases of mob action in Madison County involve women from Godfrey and Wood River. Makenna V. Loy, 21, of Godfrey, and Abbigail A. Creekpaum, 20, of Wood River, were each charged on May 12, 2025 with Class 4 felony counts of mob action and Class A misdemeanor counts of battery. The two allegedly acted together and “engaged in the knowing use of force or violence, disturbing the public peace” on April 28, 2025. Both are accused of striking the same victim about the body, causing pain, without legal justification. The cases against Loy and Creekpaum were presented by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office. Both were granted pretrial release from custody. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Continue Reading

CHARLESTON — Father McGivney Catholic senior sprinter Lilly Gilbertson advanced to the girls' state track and field finals on Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Charleston at Eastern Illinois University with strong performances in the 100- and 400-meter preliminaries. At the end of the day, she qualified in third place in the 200 meters with another sensational time of 25.36. Gilbertson qualified seventh in the 100 meters with a time of 12.39 seconds and secured first first-place qualifying mark in the 400 meters, finishing in 58.10 seconds. She led the field ahead of Emma Randecker of Savanna (West Carroll), who qualified second with a time of 58.55. The results for the 200 meters have not yet been posted. In reflecting on her 400-meter race, Gilbertson said she paced herself after realizing she had a comfortable lead. She is a Byron, Carlson, Petri & Kalb Female Athlete of the Month for the Griffins in outdoor track and field. “I came out strong and when listening to the announcer,

Continue Reading

BETHALTO - Friends of Larry Anderson have launched a fundraiser to assist the family as they face multiple hardships, including unexpected medical and dental expenses and damage to their home caused by recent storms. The fundraiser, organized by Bridgett Jacquot on behalf of Anderson’s family, aims to raise $5,000 to help cover temporary housing and medical bills. Anderson and his family have struggled to get their insurance company to inspect their storm-damaged home, leaving them with unsafe living conditions and financial strain. Larry Anderson, described by his friends as a kind and hardworking individual, is known for bringing positivity to his workplace by sharing stories from his childhood in rural southern Illinois. His friends emphasize his caring nature and faithfulness, noting his willingness to support others. The fundraiser page encourages donations and sharing to support the family during this difficult period. Anderson’s friends also ask the community to

Continue Reading

GRAFTON - Grafton’s famous Music in the Park series will start next week. From 7–9 p.m. every Thursday night starting on Thursday, May 29, and running through Aug. 28, 2025, community members can come to Grove Memorial Park in Grafton for a free concert. Peg Brooks, who organizes Music in the Park, encourages people to stop by and enjoy the experience. “It’s everything you could want for a feel-good night,” Brooks said. On May 29, attendees can enjoy music by Starlifter, U.S. Band of Mid America. Brooks said booking this band was her “biggest goal” for the season, and she is pleased to welcome the band to Grafton to kick off the free concert series. On June 5, Scott Lantham & Karl Holmes Duo will play, followed by HOOKie on June 12. Outlaw Opry brings the country on June 19, and classic rock lovers can enjoy The OWLS on June 26. To celebrate Independence Day, the Gibson Girls will perform gospel and patriotic music on July 3.

Continue Reading

JERSEYVILLE – Jersey Community Middle School has proudly announced their full lists of High Honor Roll and Honor Roll students for the fourth quarter of the 2024-25 school year. HIGH HONOR ROLL 7th Grade Trey N. Alich Wade R. Ball Georgia A. Cazier Makayla M. Chapman Charlie M. Charlton-Stierley Aislynn C. Christen Emersyn J. Cole Lillie M. Cornelius Kaylee M. Cunningham Kyle A. Darr Kadence Dobson Henry D. Dohrn Ayden S. Droege Logan T. Dunham Stella M. Egelhoff Kenna L. Erwin Addison J. Fessler James D. Ford Charles R. Friedel Davis J. Frost Jayden L. Fry Olivia D. Funk Cadence M. Goodey Liam P. Graham Reid K. Graham Bentley W. Grasle Maci E. Gray Fallin M. Green Emmitt M. Grizzle Ruiz Aubrey A. Hargrave Izabella R. Hernandez Sophia M. Herter Harper L. Hill Charlotte F. Hinkson Brody A. Hoyt Austin Huang Evelyn M. Hughes Sullivan E. Hutchens Harmony M. Jantzen Blake J. Jones Paige M. Jones Cullan J. Kinser Connor J. Kirkendoll

Continue Reading

GRANITE CITY - Christina Koontz is organizing a fundraiser to assist a family whose home was destroyed by a tornado in Granite City on May 16, 2025. The family reported that a tree on the property, which they had repeatedly requested management to remove, fell on their home during the storm. "Management has declined to repair the damage, citing the tornado as an act of God, and has given the family 30 days to make repairs," Koontz said. The destruction has left the family seeking a safe place for their children to stay. Koontz's fundraiser aims to provide financial support for the necessary repairs and help the family recover from the damage caused by the tornado. Click here for the GoFundMe for Christina Koontz's family: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-a-family-displaced-by-tornado

Continue Reading

PONTOON BEACH – There’s still time to donate! Madison County Transit (MCT) and local libraries across Madison County are continuing to collect bicycles throughout the month of May in celebration of National Bike Month. So far, MCT has collected more than 120 donated bicycles—and there’s still time to add to that number! All bikes will go to St. Louis BWorks, a nonprofit organization that empowers local youth through its “Earn-A-Bike” program. The program teaches students bicycle safety, maintenance, and teamwork. Upon completion, participants earn a free bike, helmet, and lock. Drop-Off Locations (During Regular Business Hours) MCT Administration Building – 1 Transit Way, Pontoon Beach Collinsville Memorial Library – 408 W. Main St., Collinsville Edwardsville Public Library – 112 S. Kansas St., Edwardsville Hayner Public Library (Downtown Alton Branch) – 326 Belle St., Alton Maryville Community Library – 15 Professiona

Continue Reading

GLEN CARBON – Panda Express will open its first-ever Glen Carbon location on Friday, May 23, 2025. At 10 a.m., the well-known American Chinese eatery will open its doors at 2337 Troy Road in Glen Carbon. Lucky customers will be surprised throughout the day with Panda Express giveaways, including T-shirts and other Panda Express merchandise. Panda Express Spokesperson Brittany Rouse said the Glen Carbon location features the new “Panda Home” restaurant design, which she described as “distinctly American Chinese.” “Just like Panda Express, design elements bridge the East and the West,” she said. “Inside, you’ll find nods to traditional Chinese architecture like red lanterns, a moon gate portal and vibrant Chinatown signs. Outside, customers will enjoy a convenient drive-through.” The Glen Carbon Village Board approved a site plan for the new restaurant in April of 2024, as previously reported on Riverbender.com . Panda Expres

Continue Reading