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ALTON - On a recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust, Tammy Iskarous shared how her faith journey inspired her to start Riverbend Family Ministries. Based in Wood River, Riverbend Family Ministries provides resources for nonprofits to work together and help families affected by violence, homelessness, substance use and more. Iskarous explained that she developed the idea for RFM after realizing that people could do more to help others if they collaborated. “I knew people who were doing some super great things. But they were doing it at home. They were doing it in the basement on the ping pong table. And they just couldn’t expand because they didn’t have the resources to do that,” she remembered. “I thought, ‘What if we put all of those together under one roof, share the overhead, share the space, share the things that make it almost impossible for people to do the good work?’” To provide holistic

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EDWARDSVILLE - Local teachers recently gathered in Edwardsville for a conference about teaching driver's education, complete with a demonstration from Ameren. Over 30 driver's ed instructors attended the Region Nine Driver Education Workshop on Nov. 1, 2024, at the R.P. Lumber Center in Edwardsville. Jennifer Brown, Illinois High School Driver Ed Association president, noted the importance of driver's ed and the value of collaboration between instructors. “This is 100% everything,” Brown said. “A lot of what we do, we share and feed off of one another. We’re not only in the classroom, but we’re behind the wheel too, right? And there’s huge challenges when it comes to that…These are invaluable tools for us to be able to talk and collaborate and get information.” Brown added that driver's ed is “one of the most important pieces of education” students receive at the high school level. At the conference, teachers learned

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JERSEY COUNTY - On Election Day, local voters made it clear where they stand on separating from Cook County (and its county seat, Chicago). Jersey County was just one Riverbend county to support separation, with 76% voting in favor - so what happens next? Long story short: nothing yet. But as Jersey County Board Chairman Gary Krueger points out, the referendum’s purpose wasn’t to make the separation official, but to gauge public opinion. “I knew it had no legal clout,” Krueger said. “For me, it was a chance to get the mood of Jersey County voters about this as the subject has been brought up before.” The referendum appeared on voters’ ballots as an advisory question, rather than a legally-binding question, which was worded as follows: "Shall the County Board of Jersey County correspond with the boards of other counties of Illinois outside of Cook County about the possibility of separating from Cook County to form a new state, and t

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EDWARDSVILLE - EXO Lounge is an “oasis” in Edwardsville, with a med spa, nail bar and restaurant for customers to enjoy. Owner Gina Gamblin explained that EXO offers a variety of services, from Botox to facials to pedicures. You can also enjoy top-of-the-line food and drinks in the lounge, which is headed by Michelin-star chef Gianni Colucci. Gamblin noted that the experience is like a “mini vacation.” “You can make EXO the day of your life,” she said. “Anything can happen here, from drinks to dinner to the most amazing services to being your best inner and outer self. You walk in the door and it’s an immediate oasis. From the kitchen to the bar to the med spa, I think we’ve got the best of the best…Truly, an oasis, a utopia of which one could only dream about.” While EXO is officially open at 2 157 Center in Edwardsville, they will celebrate with a grand opening event on Nov. 16, 2024. Starting at 4 p.m.,

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ALTON - A man from Wood River faces five counts of burglary after a series of vehicle break-ins. Brady N. Sand, 26, of Wood River, was charged with five Class 3 felony counts of burglary on Nov. 1, 2024. Descriptions of the charges state that on Sept. 16, 2024, Sand entered five different vehicles without authority and with the intent to commit theft. The five vehicles included a 2011 Chevrolet Impala, a 2008 GMC Envoy, a 2016 Volkswagen Jetta, a 2015 Nissan Altima, and a 2002 Toyota Tundra. Aside from the Nissan Altima bearing a Missouri registration number, all other vehicles in this case had Illinois registration numbers. The Alton Police Department presented the case against Sand, who was granted pretrial release from custody. 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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ALTON — Alton VFW Post 1308 held its annual Veterans Day program on Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, honoring those who have served in the military and reflecting on their sacrifices. The ceremony featured a moving proclamation from the City of Alton Mayor David Goins, a keynote address, and the distribution of wreaths to commemorate the occasion. Dave Stout, a long-time leader within the VFW, expressed his appreciation for the ceremony and its significance for veterans. “I love the ceremony every year and what it means for veterans,” Stout said. He shared a brief history of the VFW. Ryan Higginbotham was the event's keynote speaker. Higginbotham was a gunner in Iraq in 2004 and also served in Afghanistan. He was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. Higginbotham's program included a keynote address focused on veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Stout noted the importance of honoring those who have served, stating, “I consider it an honor to serve

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EAST ST. LOUIS - Coming from a family tradition of military service, outfitted in a soldier’s work ethic of tenacity and grit, and armed with a personal duty to support veterans, William “Bill” Schnarr is providing assistance for vets through Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) . “I want to be in the trenches, helping veterans with their lives,” said Schnarr, VUB outreach coordinator and U.S. Army veteran. “It’s been my mission to make sure society doesn’t forget about veterans. The VUB program at the East St. Louis campus is an excellent one, and I am proud to be a part of it. The Department of Education did a good job in funding this program.” Schnarr, who took his life and military experiences, along with his academic and professional background and melded them into a strategic weapon, started working at SIUE in February. Though the veteran’s life is on a good course now, he

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BETHALTO - On Friday, November 8, Trimpe Middle School hosted a moving Veterans Day assembly, bringing students, staff and around thirty veterans together to honor those who have served. The event began with a solemn presentation of colors by a local Color Guard, prompting the entire assembly to rise in respect. Following this, the Trimpe Middle School 7th and 8th grade band, directed by Mr. Alex Hornsey, performed “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Eighth grader and Student Council Treasurer Arianna Walton led the “Pledge of Allegiance,” and Student Council President Jackson Mooshegian expressed gratitude to the veterans present. Mr. Peter Midgley, Student Council sponsor and art teacher, shared a few words, followed by former TMS principal Kirk Johnson. Josh Crisp, father of TMS student Tinley Crisp and husband to Bethany Crisp, a paraprofessional at the school, also spoke, adding a personal touch to the event. The school choir led by choir director Ms. Lynda

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ALTON - Local veterans stopped by Riverbend Head Start and Family Services to talk with the kids, read books, and answer questions about the military. On Veterans Day on Nov. 11, 2024, Riverbend Head Start’s Essic Robinson Center hosted an open house and welcomed veterans into their classrooms. The children paraded around the center and gave the veterans coloring sheets and cards thanking them for their service. “It was nice. It’s always good to see the kids,” said veteran Rick Imel. “It made me feel good.” Imel and Bryan McLellan, both veterans of the U.S. Navy, shared stories of their service with the kids. They fielded questions about working on aircraft carriers and submarines. They also read “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” by Bill Martin Jr., and talked about the story with the kids. McLellan noted that while the students might not have totally understood the importance of Veterans Day, it was “still nic

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GRANITE CITY - Granite City High School welcomed 1996 graduate and 2024 Wall of Fame honoree James V. Rooney recently, where he addressed social studies classes during the second and third hours of the school day. Rooney, a detective with the New York Police Department, is in his 18th year with the force and currently serves as a Task Force Officer in collaboration with federal partners. During his visit, Rooney emphasized the importance of commitment and perseverance, urging students to "Show Up Every Day" and underscoring that their high school experiences do not define their future paths. He engaged with students in a question-and-answer session during the final 10 minutes of each class, allowing them to gain insight into his career and experiences. Rooney also distributed NYPD patches to the students, providing a tangible connection to his work and the broader themes of service and dedication. He also handed out NYPD patches after every session.

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ALTON - Local veterans turned out for the “Breakfast for a Hero” event on Veterans Day. On Nov. 11, 2024, veterans and their families were invited to Best Western Premier for a free breakfast, open mic and performance by the Gibson Girls. Over 240 people were in attendance this year. “The room is full, so we’re grateful for that,” said Jim Claywell with Embark Wealth Partners, the company that organizes the event. Claywell noted that the breakfast honors veterans and their family members while providing a fun kickoff to the Veterans Day events around town. As they finished their meal, veterans were invited to share stories with the room. A few veterans took the time to honor fellow servicemembers who had passed, while others shared information about local programs and resources for vets. The Gibson Girls concluded the morning with a performance, and Claywell said they were “just tremendous.” The event was sponsored by many local

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JERSEYVILLE - Jerseyville residents gathered to show support for their local veterans during a short and sunny Veteran’s Day parade on Monday, Nov. 11, 2024. The parade began at 10 a.m. near Wells-Norris Tire on West Prairie Street. A crowd of spectators, who secured their spots well in advance, lined both sides of State Street. The Jerseyville American Legion 492 Color Guard performed the traditional firing and taps. Colors were presented by VFW 4528 and the Jerseyville Marine Corps League Robert Windle Detachment 1031. The parade also featured a performance by the Jersey Community High School Marching Band and Color Guard, and appearances from the Jerseyville Boy Scouts of America Troop 8059 and Cub Scouts Pack 8059. While the 2024 Veterans Day Parade lasted less than 10 minutes, the annual event remains a longstanding Jerseyville tradition.

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ALTON - A vehicle in a turn lane went straight through the intersection instead of turning and struck an SUV at 4:41 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, at Landmarks and Piasa in Alton, Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford said. Ford said one of the vehicles flipped onto its side after the violent impact. Three in the accident were transported by ambulance to a local hospital for additional evaluation.

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DECATUR - Ahead of Veterans Day, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs announced he has returned a Purple Heart medal belonging to a late World War II Marine from Decatur to the veteran’s daughter. U.S. Marine Corps Private First-Class Delbert G. Tuttle earned the honor, along with the Silver Star, for wounds he suffered during the Battle of Saipan in the Pacific Theater on June 15, 1944. “Private First Class Tuttle put aside his own wounds so that he could help his fellow combatants take a battleground that was key to ushering in the end of the Second World War,” Frerichs said. “No matter the passage of time, his bravery and sacrifice shall never be forgotten, especially as we return this Purple Heart to his family.” Carolyn Peckham, Tuttle’s daughter, accepted the Purple Heart from Frerichs during a small, private ceremony at the World War II Memorial outside the Decatur Civic Center on Oct. 29. Like many who served in the

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As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s no better time to indulge in a cozy movie marathon. Fall brings with it a sense of warmth and nostalgia, making it the perfect backdrop for binge-watching your favorite films. Whether you prefer heartwarming family flicks, thrilling horror, or romantic comedies, a well-planned movie marathon can become a cherished tradition during this beautiful season. This article will guide you through creating a cozy fall movie marathon that is enjoyable, comfortable, and memorable. Setting the Scene Choose the Right Environment The first step in creating a cozy atmosphere is selecting the right viewing environment. Your living room is often the best option, but don’t overlook other spaces like a basement, bedroom, or even an outdoor patio (if the weather allows). Aim for a location that you can easily control the lighting and temperature. Dim the lights to create an inviting ambiance, and if you’re watching outside,

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November 11th is a date rich with historical significance, marking pivotal events that have shaped nations and cultures across the globe. The Armistice of November 11, 1918, was signed between the Allies and Germany, effectively bringing to a close four years of brutal warfare that resulted in millions of casualties. As the clock struck 11 AM, the world breathed a collective sigh of relief—no longer would the sounds of gunfire and explosions dominate the landscape of Europe. This day is now commemorated as Armistice Day in many countries and is also observed as Veterans Day in the United States, honoring those who have served in the military. Fast forward to 1954, November 11th took on a new meaning in the United States when President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed it as Veterans Day. This holiday was established to honor all military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, recognizing their sacrifices and contributions to the country. The day is marked by ceremonies

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EDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville High School students recently welcomed German students to their homes and classrooms for an exchange program. In October, German students spent two weeks at Edwardsville through the German American Partnership Program. EHS students will have the same experience in Germany next summer. Levi Antrim, a German teacher and the World Languages Department Chair at EHS, noted that it’s a “very unique experience” for the students. “ go to American high school and they see all the things that we do, and just kind of see what American life is really like instead of just whatever they see on TV,” Antrim said. “And then whenever we go to Germany, we stay with the same people, and we get to go on field trips as well, but our field trips in Germany include castles.” While in the U.S., the German students attended class with their EHS partners and stayed in their homes. They also traveled to Chicago and St. Louis. Antrim

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JERSEYVILLE — The memory of Sp.4 Michael D. McClain, a Jerseyville native who lost his life in the Vietnam War, continues to resonate with his family and community nearly six decades after his service. McClain, the only child of Mildred and Melvin McClain, served in the Army from 1967 until his death on Sept. 30, 1968, while assigned to Company C of the 34th Engineer Battalion and later transferred to temporary duty with the Big Red 1. McClain graduated from Jerseyville High School in 1966 before enlisting in the military. He was deployed to Vietnam during a tumultuous period marked by significant conflict. His service and sacrifice were recognized with numerous honors, including the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Expert Rifle Badge. In a heartfelt message, Toni (Kruse) Eichorn, a family member, expressed the profound impact McClain's life and service had on his loved ones. "Our family honors Mike's memory

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As summer days give way to the crispness of autumn, many individuals find it challenging to maintain their fitness routine. The shift in weather can bring about a desire to hibernate, but staying active during the cooler months is vital for both physical and mental well-being. Embracing fall fitness not only helps to counteract the seasonal slump but also allows individuals to enjoy the beauty of nature as it transforms. This article explores effective strategies for staying active during fall, offering practical advice, relevant examples, and tips to inspire a healthy lifestyle throughout the season. The Importance of Staying Active in Fall With the changing seasons, people often face new challenges to their fitness routines. The drop in temperature can lead to decreased motivation, while the shorter daylight hours can complicate outdoor activities. However, maintaining a fitness regimen during fall is essential for several reasons: Physical Health : Regular exercise boosts th

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Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, reflection, and of course, sharing delicious food with family and friends. A potluck is a delightful way to celebrate this holiday, allowing guests to contribute their favorite dishes while relieving the host from the burden of preparing an entire feast alone. If you’re considering hosting a Thanksgiving-themed potluck, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure a successful and enjoyable gathering. Planning the Potluck 1. Set a Date and Time The first step in organizing a Thanksgiving-themed potluck is to determine when it will take place. Consider scheduling it either on the actual Thanksgiving Day or on a weekend close to the holiday. Be mindful of your guests' schedules, as many may have prior commitments during this festive season. Aim for a time that allows for a leisurely meal, typically in the late afternoon or early evening. 2. Choose a Location The location of your potluck can significantly affect the atmosphere

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