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ALTON – OSF Medical Group in Alton is pleased to announce a new cardiology nurse practitioner has been added to its staff to better serve the cardiology needs of Riverbend region residents. Laurinda Harjai, DNP, FNP, RN-BC, will begin seeing patients on Monday, October 30, 2023, and will ensure continued access for patients in need of cardiology care at OSF Medical Group - Cardiology, located at OSF Saint Anthony’s Medical Office Building, Suite 305, #2 Saint Anthony’s Way, in Alton. Harjai will see patients Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Ms. Harjai, DNP, offers her patients a variety of specialty cardiology services encompassing (but not limited to): Chest pain Hypertension High cholesterol Heart failure Coronary Artery Disease management Harjai’s comprehensive, clinical experience also includes: Served as practitioner, educator, and consultant for patients with advanced heart failure, including heart transplant Pre and Post Cardiothoracic surgical

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ALTON – The Alton School District Board of Education said today it will begin a national search for the next leader of the District this week. The current superintendent, Dr. Kristie Baumgartner, announced last year that the 2023-2024 school year would be her last, leading to the forthcoming vacancy and search process. June 30, 2024, will be her last day. According to David Lauschke, Board of Education President, Baumgartner shared her intent to leave after this school year with them early last year." "We wanted to offer Kristie a multi-year contract extension last year but she was very upfront and transparent in sharing she only planned to serve one more year as superintendent,” he said. Lauschke added that Baumgartner’s service to district students, staff and families over the past two and a half decades has been impressive and appreciated. “I don’t know that you will find a more caring or hard-working leader than her and she has been that way since

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul is reminding parents and guardians to check the state’s sex offender registry and with local law enforcement agencies before finalizing Halloween plans. “Halloween should be a night of fun, family, and of course, candy. I am encouraging parents, grandparents and guardians to keep their families safe by checking Illinois’ sex offender registry before leaving home,” Raoul said. “While Illinois law prohibits child sex offenders from distributing candy, searching the registry is a quick step that families can take before leaving home to ensure everyone has a happy and safe Halloween.” Illinois law prohibits all sex offenders who committed a crime against a child from distributing candy, in addition to prohibiting them from participating in trick-or-treat events or other Halloween events involving children younger than 18. Sex offenders on parole, mandatory supervised release and probation may have other

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BETHALTO - This is the Civic Memorial High School 2023-2024 first quarter honor roll list. Seniors - High Honor Roll Alyssa Abernathy Akkadia Allsman Kadince Arico Charly Bellanca Carter Braun Ethan Bruhn Reid Buffington David Chen Gabriella Cochran Makayla Collman Avari Combes Anaiah Dabney Brian Dame Jasmine Davis David Dutton Justin Dyer James Farris Garreth Floyd Julian Floyd Tayla Fontana Samuel Frey Bryce Griffin Elijah Gruen Samantha Hamby Bella Hannaford Lela Haskins Lisa Henry Joshua Hodge Alyssa Hoffmann Jayden Huff Zak King Ella Landers Sydney Law Jasmine Lawrence Jacob Liefer Madison Lindley Joshua McCune Isabel Mims Lucas Naugle Aniston Naumann Kaitlynn Niemeyer Madelyn Ogden Timothy Oldham Raegan Ottwell Shelby Quick Ethan Rea Reagan Richards Ella Richey Meredith Schaaf Caleb Scott Kent Scottberg Jae Lynne Shotwell Destiny Slone Lauren Stacknick Taylor Stanford Josaline Stewart Christian Strader Noah Thien Kylie

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BRIGHTON - Friday night was freezing and rainy, but that couldn’t stop the population of Brighton. Kids took to the streets, hordes of Barbies and Spider-Mans and a few classic Freddy Kruegers, dragging along good-natured parents for three hours of trick-or-treating. I don’t have kids, so I was on Candy Duty. I spent those three hours sitting in the driveway with a few friends, passing out Snickers bars and sipping apple cider. (I can neither confirm nor deny whether the cider was spiked, but in our defense, it was 40 degrees and raining and also a Friday night. We needed a little kick.) In my 20s now, it’s natural that I occasionally think about having kids. The question — to parent or not to parent — has become a little more important lately as I chart out what I want to accomplish in the next ten years or so. After Friday night, I can confidently say that I am more uncertain than ever. Don’t be offended, parents of the Riverbend; your kids

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BETHALTO - The Bethalto Police Department has received over 20 reports of vehicle burglaries/stolen vehicles in the last week, Bethalto Police Chief Jason Lamb said. "We are reminding people to please lock your vehicle and either remove or hide any valuable items inside of your vehicle," Chief Lamb said. "We have taken reports of expensive valuables being taken. "Most of our reports have documented that their vehicles were unlocked, however, we have had some reports where force was used to enter the vehicle. Some of these encounters have been captured on video. "We are asking everyone to review your surveillance cameras (should you have any) for any evidence of these perpetrators near your or your neighbor's vehicle. If you have a video of these subjects, please contact us so one of our officers can obtain that video from you." Even if nothing was taken, the department would like to hear about it so they can further gather information about where these people have been,

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ALTON - Madison County Coroner’s Office Chief Of Investigations Shane P. Liley has identified a Godfrey area male who died as a result of being involved in a two-vehicle traffic crash early Sunday morning, Oct. 29, 2023. The man is identified as Anthony M. Geisen, 20, of Godfrey. Geisen was the driver and sole occupant of a white 2015 Ford Focus Hatchback. He was traveling northbound on Henry Street and through the intersection of Landmarks Boulevard when he was struck on the passenger side by a 2024 Freightliner tractor-trailer. The crash occurred at 5:54 a.m. on Oct. 29, 2023. Geisen was treated at the scene by paramedics with the Alton Fire Department and taken to OSF Saint Anthony’s Heath Center in Alton, where he was pronounced deceased at 6:23 a.m. after resuscitative efforts were unsuccessful. The victim was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash and his airbags did deploy, Liley said. The driver of the tractor-trailer was not injured during the

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ALTON - The City of Alton unveiled its plans to become a child-friendly city through the UNICEF U.S.A Child Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI). Alton will be one of eight cities in the country to achieve this designation. “Sometimes you look in eyes and you see hope. Other times, you see despair. Other times, you see trauma. Through this Child Friendly City Initiative, what we want to do is be able to see the hope in their eyes and not despair,” Mayor David Goins said. “What I’d like to do is continue to work with the City Council and my administration as we strive to seek legislation, decisions that will positively impact children’s lives and health and wellbeing.” The City Council has allocated $1 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to “invest in our youth,” Goins said. The Council specifically approved $50,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act to go toward CFCI in Alton. CFCI focuses on promoting child rights, fighting

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ALTON - If anyone ever epitomized a life of service of Alton it would be retired Alderman Charlie Brake. Brake was a Ward 5 in Alton Alderman for 26 years and was first elected in 1997. He retired a few months before his 92nd birthday in June 2023. On Tuesday night, Oct. 31, 2023, Charlie Brake will have one of the most special moments of his life when he rides through the Alton Halloween Parade as Parade Marshal. Steve Schwartz, a spokesperson for the Alton Halloween Parade, said he thought the East End Improvement Association, the sponsors for the parade, made a great choice in Brake’s selection. Brake always stood up for what he believed in during his time as Ward 5 alderman. He said when he retired he was going to relieve some stress and relax more. “I worked all those years, too, and then had that alderman seat for 26 years,” he said. “I was involved a lot in the construction projects. We did new fire houses and a new police station and I managed to be

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JERSEYVILLE - One individual is facing charges of domestic battery and criminal damage to property while another has been charged with possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia, according to recent Jersey County court filings. Ashley D. Combs, 36, of Jerseyville, was charged with one count of domestic battery and one count of criminal damage to property following an alleged incident on or about Oct. 24, 2023. Court documents indicate Combs shoved the victim “against a wall and grabbed her arm while at their shared residence.” Combs had previously been convicted of domestic battery on Jan. 29, 2018, also in Jersey County. Combs is facing a Class 4 felony charge for the domestic battery offense. Court documents indicate she is being held in the custody of the Jersey County Sheriff until her initial court appearance. Ashley N. Hillman, 35, of Jerseyville, was charged with unlawful possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine, possession of a hypodermic

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ALTON - The 106th edition of the Alton Halloween Parade is set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023. East End Improvement Association is the parade sponsor. Alton Halloween Parade spokesperson Steve Schwartz said he once again has high expectations of another memorable parade. Former long-time Alton Alderman Charles Brake will be the grand marshal of the parade. The Alton Halloween Parade will be staged in the Alton Police Department parking lot. Schwartz said Brake was a natural choice to be the parade marshal with his 26 years of service to the City of Alton. If you are unable to get out to view the Alton Halloween Parade in person, watch the live stream on Riverbender.com. Schwartz said last week he speculated about 60-70 entries in the parade from everything from floats to bands, etc. The competition for the float winners is always stringent. Alton’s 106th annual celebration will run from 7–10 p.m. The Alton Halloween Parade begins downtown at the intersection of

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ST. LOUIS - As temperatures cool, it can be easy to slip into "zombie mode" when it comes to staying on top of home energy usage. Instead of taking a lifeless approach this spooky season, here are four simple modifications you can make without much effort that can decrease your energy drain – and won't require big sacrifices: Let the sunshine in. As we head into daylight saving time, take advantage of the last few longer days by opening curtains and letting the natural sunlight warm your space. In the evening, keep them closed to prevent the heat from escaping. Lower the heat to 68 degrees. Consider slipping on a hoodie or a sweater to stay comfortable, as lower temperature settings will use less energy with little effort. You can save 5% for every degree you drop your thermostat between 60 to 70 degrees. Clear your air vents. Make sure there are no furniture items or appliances obstructing any vents to maximize heating efficiency. Removing blockages and replacing

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Jersey Community Middle School 1st Quarter Honor Roll 5th grade: Jacob M. Dixon, Myles P. Dougherty, Aria J. Forrester, Olivia D. Funk, Braden J. Hall, Tod M. Herndon, Aiden D. Johnisee, Connor J. Kirkendoll, Kagen A. McClintock, Colton T. Mueller, Cailynn R. Newby, Sophia L. Penelton, Jada D. Price, Andrew R. Ray, Emmy L. Rothe, Bristen A. Schlottner, Ian C. Schulz, Ginny K. Shaffer, Kenna R. Sievers, McKenzie A. Towell, Brianna M. Waters, and Lana M. West. 6th grade: Eryn D. Benner, Samantha G. Beumer, Nylah R. Box-Michaels, Jordan R. Cato, Derrick L. Dublo Jr, Erin J. Federle, Carter M. Fitzgerald, Allison R. Haarmann, Landon J. Hazelwonder, Rylie G. Hedger, Gracie L. Herrmann, Skylee H. Howell, Carson J. Johnson, Alaya R. LeMasters, Christopher R. Meares, Austin C. Mintert, Ella R. Newell, Aydan J. Rader, Gabriel P. Rawe, Alexis M. Roberts, Sophia L. Schroeder, Aiden J. Smith, Cole J. Stierley, Wyatt A. Taylor, Keegan D. Varble, Aubrey J. Vetter, and Lucas T. Wallace

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ROXANA - Midwest Members Credit Union is proud to sponsor the “Shell of the Month” program at Roxana High School. Students from each grade level are selected each month by members of the RHS faculty. Each student is awarded a certificate and a Subway gift card. The Seniors selected each month will have the opportunity to compete for a “Shell of the Year” scholarship at the end of the school year. September Shell of the Month winners are: Seniors - Raelee Kimbro, Zach Huff Juniors - Elise Berry, Caleb Wonders Sophomores - Natasha Little, Noah Smith Freshmen - Emma Martin, Zander Losch October Shell of the Month winners are: Seniors - Jessica Patton, Michael Roe Juniors - Jaxxon Hall, Cali Liljenberg Sophomores - Sidney Ufert, Gavin Springer Freshmen - Easton Johnston, Amelia Primas Congratulations to all the recipients Midwest Members Credit Union has been serving your community for over 88 years. To find out more information about Midwest Member

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CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today released the following statement expressing his support for the tentative deal reached between the United Auto Workers (UAW) and Stellantis, which includes restarting the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Illinois, as well as adding a battery plant to the facility: “From my very first meeting, and every one since, the President of UAW, Shawn Fain, made it clear that the future of Belvidere was a critical bargaining issue. He kept his word. Today’s announcement creates a path for every Belvidere worker to return and be part of a new EV launch. “I spoke to Governor Pritzker this afternoon. There is a need for federal infrastructure investment on the site and I pledged our delegation’s total cooperation in that effort.” In February, Stellantis laid off 1,350 workers at the idled Belvidere Plant. Durbin has continuously shown his support for the laid off or striking autoworkers,

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CHICAGO - Governor Pritzker issued the following statement regarding the tentative contract deal reached by UAW and Stellantis: “With the announcement that United Auto Workers and Stellantis have reached a tentative agreement that’s good for workers and good for the state of Illinois, auto workers can get back on the job with higher wages, expanded benefits, and new and valuable opportunities in a growing industry. For over two years, I have been laser-focused on working toward a permanent solution in Belvidere that retains and grows good-paying jobs, while supporting economic development in the surrounding region. Since the plant was idled in February, we’ve provided support to furloughed auto workers, while concurrently leading a collaborative effort with local officials and legislators to craft aggressive incentives that position Illinois at the forefront of the EV manufacturing industry. Thanks to that collaboration and the passage of the Climate and Equitable

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ALTON - The Alton Police Department received a report of a traffic crash on Landmarks Boulevard at the intersection with Henry Street at 5:54 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023. Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford said a preliminary investigation revealed that an 18-wheeler truck was traveling westbound on Landmarks Boulevard approaching Henry Street. "As the truck entered the intersection, a passenger vehicle entered northbound on Henry Street," Chief Ford said. "In doing so, the front of the truck struck the passenger side of the passenger vehicle. "The driver of the passenger vehicle was transported to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced deceased." Ford said the incident is still under investigation at this time. The traffic accident is being investigated by the Alton Police Department Traffic Division and Illinois State Police in conjunction with the Madison County Coroner’s Office. The victim has since been identified. You can read more at this article on RiverBender.com

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EDWARDSVILLE - The city is happy to once again welcome crowds of people in and around downtown for some of the sweetest fun all year: the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce Halloween Parade. This monster-size annual celebration dates back more than a century and for 2023 will get underway at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 31. More than 100 floats and other participants are expected for this family-friendly event, which will follow its traditional route. It’s scheduled to turn north from the Lincoln Middle School parking lot at the intersection of Schwarz and West Streets and head east on St. Louis Street to Vandalia Street. The parade then will veer to the north on Main Street, and disband past the Wildey Theatre at High Street. The affected roads will close to traffic at about 6 p.m. on the day of the parade, according to the Edwardsville Police Department. There will be no parking along the route beginning at 4:30 p.m., and any remaining vehicles will be subject t

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Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a coalition of 19 attorneys general, defended the District of Columbia’s (D.C.) efforts to restrict the capacity of firearms magazines within its borders in an amicus brief filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. The coalition argues that D.C.’s law prohibiting the possession and sale of large-capacity magazines does not violate the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. “Like Illinois, D.C. is actively protecting its citizens and communities from deadly firearms, and I support this law to prohibit possession and sale of large-capacity magazines.,” Raoul said. “I will continue to collaborate with fellow attorneys general who prioritize public safety by restricting access to large-capacity magazines.” The District of Columbia law at issue in the case, Hanson v. District of Columbia, permits D.C. residents to possess and sell firearms magazines that accept up to 10 rounds of ammunition,

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GLEN CARBON - Father McGivney Catholic High School, a coed Catholic college preparatory high school, announces the expansion of its campus with the addition of a 3,550 sq. ft. facility, located in Glen Carbon, Illinois. The new addition, once complete, is slated to provide an indoor gathering space to support the school’s growing student body. The new Commons building will be used for daily lunches, drama & music performances, and other events. The funds necessary to build the new Commons are already pledged. The new Commons space is part of a four-phase expansion. The addition of the Commons will be the first phase of the McGivney 'Master Plan', the remaining plans will include a larger gym with locker rooms and offices, a beautiful chapel, dedicated space for fine arts performances, a band and chorus room, and completion of the athletic complex with an all-weather track and tennis courts. Development Director Suzanne Halbrook explains, “We believe the addition of the

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