Riverbender 🕸

ALTON - During their regular meeting on Oct. 15, 2024, the Alton Community Unit School District Board of Education recognized the West Elementary Optimist Student of the Month for October. Julius Ezeagu is a fifth grader at West Elementary who plays clarinet, violin and tennis. West Elementary Principal TaRael Kee introduced Ezeagu as someone “who exemplifies all the qualities we value in our students.” “He balances his commitments with a cheerful, positive attitude,” Kee said. “His mother describes him as the go-to guy in the family, always responsible and helpful. In addition to his academics and extracurricular activities, Julius is also committed to giving back to the community.” Ezeagu helps clean up after P.E. every day. He also was nominated to join West Elementary’s Gentleman’s Group. His teacher, Alexandra Stilwell, described Ezeagu as “an all-around great scholar, hard worker, and someone who’s always willin

Continue Reading

On October 16, 2024, we take a moment to reflect on the significant events that have shaped our world throughout history. One of the most impactful events in history occurred on October 16, 1859. John Brown, a fervent abolitionist, led a raid on the federal armory at Harpers Ferry, Virginia. His aim was to incite an uprising and establish a stronghold for freed enslaved people. Although the raid ultimately failed and Brown was captured, this event escalated tensions between the North and South in the United States, setting the stage for the Civil War. Brown's actions and his subsequent execution became symbols of the struggle against slavery and fueled the abolitionist movement. Fast forward to October 16, 1923, a date that marked the official founding of The Walt Disney Company. Walt Disney and his brother Roy started what would become a global entertainment empire with the creation of the Disney Brothers Studio. The company began with a series of short films featuring the character

Continue Reading

GODFREY - In a rare move on Tuesday, Godfrey Mayor Mike McCormick had to cast a tie-breaking vote after trustees debated the selection of St. Louis firm PGAV to develop the village’s comprehensive plan. The village’s Economic Development Committee had been considering two firms for an updated comprehensive plan: PGAV or Moran Economic Development. Trustee Sarah Woodman said after both organizations gave presentations, the committee voted to choose Moran - but when they forwarded that recommendation to the Village Board, “everything changed." By this week’s meeting, two camps had seemingly emerged among the trustees: those who wished to uphold the committee’s recommendation of Moran, and those who were more impressed by the presentation from PGAV. “I just thought there was a night and day difference,” Lombardi said of both company’s presentations. “I’m not saying are not capable of doing this, but as far as presentation

Continue Reading

WEST ALTON - The Audubon Center at Riverlands will combine choreography, textile and sculpture work in a new exhibit titled “Identity Migration.” Carmen Alana Tibbets is this year’s artist-in-residence at the Audubon Center, and she has created several cloth sculptures of migratory birds. Erin Lane, a dance professor at Principia College, then worked with her students to develop choreography corresponding to each sculpture. The resulting exhibit will be open to the public from 5–7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, at the Audubon Center in West Alton, Missouri. “We’ve been incorporating art into our mission since the center opened in 2011,” explained Ken Buchholz, director of the Audubon Center. “How can we get people to think and be inspired, and not only that, but even generate their own thoughts and ideas? Hopefully it creates a sense of urgency to help protect what we know we’re losing quickly. When you love something,

Continue Reading

DOW - A man from Dow with a criminal past faces new charges after weapons and methamphetamine were found in his backpack following a series of other citations. Andrew W. Hoofard, 38, of Dow, was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon (a Super Class 3 felony) and unlawful possession of methamphetamine (a Class 3 felony). On Oct. 4, 2024, Hoofard allegedly had five knives with “blades longer than three inches” in his backpack after previously being charged with a felony. He was also found in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine. Hoofard was also cited in this case with unlawful use of an ATV on a public roadway, leaving the scene of an accident, and having no valid drivers’ license. Jersey County court records show Hoofard had previously been charged in July of 2024 with theft over $500, a Class 3 felony. He also pleaded guilty in a 2018 meth delivery case in which he was charged with a Class 2 felony. In this latest case,

Continue Reading

GLEN CARBON - Father McGivney High School hosted its annual Breast Cancer Awareness volleyball game on Monday, Oct. 14, 2024, featuring a spirited match between Father McGivney Catholic and Staunton's girls' volleyball team. The event aimed to raise awareness about breast cancer, a cause that resonates deeply with many in the community. The McGivney players and many fans donned pink shirts, symbolizing their commitment to the cause and creating a vibrant atmosphere during the match. There were freshmen, junior varsity and varsity matches played during the night, so there were plenty of pink T-shirts on the floor throughout the exciting night. Father McGivney Catholic High Head Girls volleyball Coach Jake Williams expressed the significance of the event, noting that it holds personal meaning in his heart due to his mother’s battle with breast cancer. "It is very close to me in my eyes," Williams said. "I am proud of the effort of the girls and their coordinator for the event,

Continue Reading

O'FALLON - A petition has emerged calling for the reconsideration of an Illinois High School Association (IHSA) rule that led to the ban of a freshman O'Fallon student-athlete from his school's cross-country team. The petition, initiated by Madelyn Hindia on October 15, 2024, seeks to draw attention to what the family describes as an unfair IHSA decision affecting their son, Cole Deering. Cole was banned from participating in the team after he unknowingly ran in a 6K charity race to support his sister, an action that violated IHSA regulations prohibiting athletes from participating in outside events. Cole participated in a benefit for a medical center where his sister had been hospitalized with a case of pneumonia. Hindia said the family and Cole were unaware of the implications of the charity race, running outside his normal high school team meets. Hindia said the impact of the ban has been particularly difficult for Cole, who is autistic and has been focusing on his mental health.

Continue Reading

ALTON — Jay Keeven, a candidate for the 112th District State House of Representatives, is addressing voter concerns as the November election approaches. With just three weeks until Election Day on November 5, Keeven has engaged with constituents about pressing issues such as property taxes, the rising cost of living and much more. Keeven was an Illinois State trooper for 27 years and served for eight-plus years as the Edwardsville Police Chief. He is presently the city administrator for Troy. During his state representative campaign, Keeven said he and his associates have knocked on approximately 15,000 doors, listening to residents. He said first on the minds of most was the high property taxes in Madison County and high grocery prices. "I think things do financially assist individuals, but there is a cost-benefit analysis with everything we do," Keeven said. He emphasized the state's budget, which he noted includes $53 billion, has to be analyzed and trimmed. He said he know

Continue Reading

GODFREY - The journey to retirement is a long and winding road, much like the winding path that leads to Asbury Village. The 110-acre retirement community is a hidden gem of scenic beauty. Constructed in 1997, the 217 residents affectionately call it “the countryside.” In a safe and serene environment, Asbury Village provides something for everyone. In the peaceful and rural setting, Asbury Village offers a lively, enriching lifestyle that encourages residents to expand their world. One has the freedom to choose their own pace of life after retirement. From wellness classes, Wii bowling, and gardening to outings, ball games, concerts in the park and other local events, there’s an abundance of opportunities for seniors to be as active as they like. While the main focus is to provide an independent vibrant environment, the community offers care to meet a variety of needs, from assisted living to someone that may need short respite associated with a health

Continue Reading

ALTON - During this year’s Vintage Voices performances, three men told the story of Alton Sportsman’s Park. With Jeff Pruett performing as Archibald Daniels, Jim Lieber as A.J. “Doc” Bushong, and Sean B.T. Williams as Bill Gatewood, the three actors shared the story of their characters’ lives and baseball careers. Daniels was a businessman in Alton and an umpire for games between “the Fats and the Leans.” The main nine players on the Fats team weighed a combined total of nearly 2,300 pounds. These games were played at Alton Sportsman’s Park. “Alton, just like St. Louis, had its very own Sportsman’s Park,” said Pruett as Daniels. He explained that the stadium was located near Alton Glass, then relocated to where Alton Plaza is now. Baseball was played at Alton Sportsman’s Park until 1921. A.J. “Doc” Bushong was a dentist and the catcher for the St. Louis Browns. He played a game against

Continue Reading

BETHALTO - Trimpe Middle School had an exciting baseball season with their new team gracing the field. This year, Trimpe Middle School introduced baseball to their lineup, with 26 seventh- and eighth-grade players comprising two teams. Coach Jason Huhsman and Athletic Director Jeff Ochs noted their enthusiasm for the new sport at Trimpe, and they believe it will help develop the players before they enter the high school baseball program. “Bethalto takes a lot of pride in their sports programs,” Huhsman said. “It’s something that’s been a long time coming. I coach high school baseball as well, so we’ve been trying to get middle school baseball because most of our schools in the high school conference have it. The more you can get hands on the players and teach them your ways and that, it always helps.” Most of the players had experience playing baseball already, but they were eager to join the school’s official team. They finished

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE – The Edwardsville Police are urging motorists to commit to sober driving, buckling up and following traffic laws this Halloween as children and their families walk through neighborhoods after dark for candy and spooky fun. If you're planning to enjoy Halloween festivities, make sure you also plan for a safe, sober ride home. Remember: “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Click It or Ticket.” “Alcohol and cannabis impair your ability to drive safely,” said Lt. Brandn Whittaker. “It is crucial to plan how you’ll get home before you head out – whether you’ll be drinking or using any other substance. Don’t forget to wear your seat belt every trip, every time. Planning ahead, driving sober and buckling up can help keep you and others safe.” Remember, DUIs are not limited to alcohol-related offenses. It is also illegal to drive under the influence of cannabis or any other drug or substance. While

Continue Reading

ALTON - On the most recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust, Linda Smith shared her testimony as someone who struggled with substance use and found God. Smith shared that she went through a difficult time several years ago, which culminated in trouble with the law and DCFS. She realized her kids and her health were her priorities, and she decided to “get right with God.” Now, she is open with her story in the hopes that she can help other people. “I love hard because I know what it feels like to be loved little, and I know what it feels like to not have. The struggles that I faced prior to now, they’re still daunting, okay? I’m still struggling,” Smith said. “But you have to stay positive and you have to understand that today might be dark but tomorrow can be bright. Don’t give up.” Smith remembered when she was first struggling with alcohol use. This time in her life was “really

Continue Reading

BETHALTO - Students in Brett Kalker’s radio class at Civic Memorial High School had a unique educational experience on their recent visit to the Lewis and Clark Community College radio and broadcast station. The event provided students with hands-on opportunities to engage in various aspects of radio production. During the visit, students participated in live on-air sessions, created sweepers for the station, and explored the world of podcasting. This immersive experience aimed to enhance their understanding of broadcasting and radio production techniques. Kalker expressed gratitude to Michael Lemmons and David Olenbittle for their support and guidance throughout the day. "We’re so grateful for this amazing opportunity," Kalker said, highlighting the importance of such experiences in enriching the students' learning. This visit is part of a broader effort to provide students with practical applications of their studies, preparing them for potential careers in media and

Continue Reading

ALTON — Alton Alderwoman Rosie Brown is spearheading a Voter Vehicle Caravan on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024, to encourage community participation in early voting ahead of the general Election Day on Nov. 5. The caravan will depart from Webster Temple, located at 1100 Highland Ave. at 1:30 p.m. and will proceed to the Scott Bibb Center in Alton for early voting. Brown emphasized the importance of voting in her call to action. "We hope for a mass line of churches, organizations, leaders and our community to line up and travel to the Scott Bibb Center," she said. "The importance of voting is a no-brainer. If you don't vote, you have no voice. You can't chime in on the outcome if you don't vote. The right and opportunity to vote is huge. Exercise your freedom and vote. This is crucial and your vote is needed more than ever." Following the voting event, participants are invited to return to Webster Temple for a Sunday dinner, which Brown noted will be available for purchase. The caravan

Continue Reading

ALTON - Alton Community Unit School District #11 will soon find out how many boxes of tissues $1,800 can buy. On Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, Imperial Manufacturing Group donated $1,800 to ACUSD11. The money will be used to purchase tissues for classrooms throughout the district. Angela Kruse, HR generalist with Imperial, noted that the employees worked hard to raise this money. “Just being a part of a community like Alton, we’ve been here since 2016, so we’re just trying to provide and get more involved,” Kruse explained. “A lot of our employees live in Alton or surrounding areas. We think it’s important to give back to where we are.” The employees at Imperial participated in a cornhole tournament, and their entry fees went toward the ACUSD11 donation. Imperial then matched this number. Over the years, Imperial Manufacturing Group has provided annual donations to the school district. They have donated feminine hygiene products, socks

Continue Reading

CARLINVILLE – One of the most popular presenters at the Carlinville Public Library is coming back once again. Mark Glenshaw will appear at the Carlinville library for the fourth time in less than three years on Thursday, Oct. 24 at 5:00 p.m. for “Forest Park Owls: Mating, Nesting, and Owlets.” The free program is open to the public. Glenshaw’s previous three appearances at the library, in April 2022, March 2023, and November 2023, were attended by large and enthusiastic crowds. “I’ll share what I have observed and documented on the owls’ breeding cycle,” said Glenshaw. “That includes mating, nesting selection, feeding of the owlets, fledgling and gradual maturation of owlets, and the dispersal of the owlets.” An accomplished photographer and videographer, Glenshaw will use many of his photos and videos to illustrate the behaviors of these remarkable birds. A St. Louis resident, Glenshaw has observed and documented

Continue Reading

ALTON - Senior Services Plus, Inc. (SSP) located at 2603 N. Rodgers Ave. in Alton, IL will be hosting a free Wills and Power of Attorney Legal Clinic on Nov. 14, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Attorneys from The Public Interest Law Initiative’s (PILI) Third Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee will be meeting with veterans and seniors and assisting with the preparation of Wills and Power of Attorney documents. The clinic is free, but clients must meet PILI’s financial guidelines for eligibility. Due to limited space, registration is required. For more information and registration, please call 833-275-7454 ext. 5 or register online at https://pili.org/event/free-veterans-seniors-wills-clinic/ . About SENIOR SERVICES PLUS Senior Services Plus, Inc. is a 501(c) not-for-profit organization established to enrich the lives of older adults through programs and services, for everyone aging successfully. Senior Services Plus, Inc. has been providing services for older adults

Continue Reading

FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS - Burlington Stores, Inc. is set to open a new location at 6611 N. Illinois St. at 8:45 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 18, 2024. This new store is relocating from its previous site at One Plaza Drive. The grand opening will feature a $5,000 check presentation to teachers at William Holliday Elementary School, underscoring the company's commitment to community engagement. In addition, the first 100 customers aged 18 and older on both Friday and Saturday will receive a $10 bonus card to apply toward their purchases. On Sunday, Oct. 20, customers can also receive free Burlington umbrellas, available while supplies last. Michael O’Sullivan, CEO of Burlington Stores, expressed enthusiasm for the expansion in a statement: “We’re continuing to expand our footprint across the country and are excited to be opening a new store in Fairview Heights.” Burlington is a national off-price retailer with more than 1,000 locations nationwide, offering a wide variety

Continue Reading

ALTON - OSF Moeller Cancer Center ( 2200 Central Ave., Alton) today announced that it has received accreditation under the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) Accreditation Program. The ACS CoC is a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival and quality of life for patients with cancer by setting and raising standards. CoC accreditation is granted to institutions committed to providing high-quality cancer care by demonstrating compliance with the CoC standards. Each cancer program must undergo a rigorous evaluation and review of its performance and compliance with the CoC standards. To maintain accreditation, cancer programs must undergo a site visit every three years. The CoC accreditation standards supply the structure for providing all patients with a full range of diagnostic, treatment, and supportive services either on-site or by referral, including community-based resources. “In the fight against cancer, providing

Continue Reading