Riverbender 🕸

GODFREY - The Godfrey Village Board of Trustees voted on Tuesday to approve pay raises for the Mayor, Village Board, and Village Clerk. These salary increases will not take effect until after the April 1, 2025 municipal election, but they spurred some discussion at this week’s meeting. A newly approved ordinance lays out the updated salaries for each position. The “Village President,” another term for “Mayor” according to the Illinois Municipal Code , will be paid $70,000 annually from 2025 to 2026. They will also receive yearly raises of $5,000, ending with an $85,000 salary from 2028 to 2029. Mayor Mike McCormick spoke against the proposed raises for the mayor’s position, stating he had a “problem” with them being so much higher than the raises for other village staff. “A $15,000 raise for a share results in an almost 30% increase - we don't give our employees anywhere close to that,” McCormick said. “Originally

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GODFREY - The Godfrey Village Board of Trustees voted on Tuesday to approve pay raises for the Mayor, Village Board, and Village Clerk. These salary increases will not take effect until after the April 1, 2025 municipal election, but they spurred some discussion at this week’s meeting. A newly approved ordinance lays out the updated salaries for each position. The “Village President,” another term for “Mayor” according to the Illinois Municipal Code , will be paid $70,000 annually from 2025 to 2026. They will also receive yearly raises of $5,000, ending with an $85,000 salary from 2028 to 2029. Mayor Mike McCormick spoke against the proposed raises for the mayor’s position, stating he had a “problem” with them being so much higher than the raises for other village staff. “A $15,000 raise for a share results in an almost 30% increase - we don't give our employees anywhere close to that,” McCormick said. “Originally

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COLLINSVILLE – Remington Paris has been named Officer of the Month for August by the Collinsville Police Department, marking a significant milestone in his early career. Paris recently completed a 14-week field training program, finishing in July, and August was his first full month serving as a solo patrol officer. The department recognized his achievements in a statement, highlighting the rapid progression he has made since joining the force. "That is a fast start to what we believe will be a long and successful career," the statement read. The police department concluded their announcement with encouragement for Paris, stating, "Congratulations Officer Paris and keep up the great work for our citizens."

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COLLINSVILLE – Remington Paris has been named Officer of the Month for August by the Collinsville Police Department, marking a significant milestone in his early career. Paris recently completed a 14-week field training program, finishing in July, and August was his first full month serving as a solo patrol officer. The department recognized his achievements in a statement, highlighting the rapid progression he has made since joining the force. "That is a fast start to what we believe will be a long and successful career," the statement read. The police department concluded their announcement with encouragement for Paris, stating, "Congratulations Officer Paris and keep up the great work for our citizens."

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BETHALTO - The Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 864 provides an opportunity for interested aviators to learn more about flight. At the recent 28th Annual Wings & Wheels Fly-In at St. Louis Regional Airport in Bethalto, a spokesperson with EAA Chapter 864 shared more about the organization’s mission and his own experience with flight. Dave said that he grew up around planes and always knew he wanted to fly, which EAA allows him to do. “I was about 7 years old and it was in Fairfield, Illinois. A little plug there for Fairfield,” Dave laughed. “My dad had somebody take us up. I have been hooked. I ended up getting my license in May of 1981 and have been at it since then.” Dave knows firsthand how beneficial the St. Louis Regional Airport is to the Riverbend area. He noted that the airport plays an important role in the community. Additionally, he said there were 51 flights that originated from overseas that flew into the airport last year

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BETHALTO - The Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 864 provides an opportunity for interested aviators to learn more about flight. At the recent 28th Annual Wings & Wheels Fly-In at St. Louis Regional Airport in Bethalto, a spokesperson with EAA Chapter 864 shared more about the organization’s mission and his own experience with flight. Dave said that he grew up around planes and always knew he wanted to fly, which EAA allows him to do. “I was about 7 years old and it was in Fairfield, Illinois. A little plug there for Fairfield,” Dave laughed. “My dad had somebody take us up. I have been hooked. I ended up getting my license in May of 1981 and have been at it since then.” Dave knows firsthand how beneficial the St. Louis Regional Airport is to the Riverbend area. He noted that the airport plays an important role in the community. Additionally, he said there were 51 flights that originated from overseas that flew into the airport last year

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TROY – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced lane restrictions will be encountered on eastbound I-70 at MM 16, approximately 1.5 miles east of I-55, beginning Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 7 a.m. The right lane will be closed to allow IDOT District 8 Operations forces to perform emergency bridge deck patching on the bridge over Wendell Branch. All lanes are expected to re-open by 3:30 p.m. on Friday, October 4. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. 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 be alert for workers and equipment. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information

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TROY – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced lane restrictions will be encountered on eastbound I-70 at MM 16, approximately 1.5 miles east of I-55, beginning Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 7 a.m. The right lane will be closed to allow IDOT District 8 Operations forces to perform emergency bridge deck patching on the bridge over Wendell Branch. All lanes are expected to re-open by 3:30 p.m. on Friday, October 4. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. 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 be alert for workers and equipment. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information

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EDWARDSVILLE – Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) leadership, the Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB), design-build firms Clayco + Poettker, and city and state officials gathered this morning to celebrate a significant construction milestone. A “final pour” ceremony marked the last structural concrete pour on the new $105 million health science building at the SIUE campus. During the event, attendees toured the 176,000 square foot building that will accommodate the School of Pharmacy and School of Nursing, and signed concrete columns that will be hidden within the walls of the building. “Through Rebuild Illinois, we’re making key infrastructure investments that create opportunities for Illinoisans across the state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Today’s milestone in the completion of the new SIUE Health Sciences Complex reflects our commitment to building world-class learning environments. This state-of-the-art facilit

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EDWARDSVILLE – Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) leadership, the Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB), design-build firms Clayco + Poettker, and city and state officials gathered this morning to celebrate a significant construction milestone. A “final pour” ceremony marked the last structural concrete pour on the new $105 million health science building at the SIUE campus. During the event, attendees toured the 176,000 square foot building that will accommodate the School of Pharmacy and School of Nursing, and signed concrete columns that will be hidden within the walls of the building. “Through Rebuild Illinois, we’re making key infrastructure investments that create opportunities for Illinoisans across the state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Today’s milestone in the completion of the new SIUE Health Sciences Complex reflects our commitment to building world-class learning environments. This state-of-the-art facilit

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ALTON – A breast cancer diagnosis can have a significant impact on mental health, and it's important to recognize and address any mental health changes. Some common mental health concerns that people with breast cancer may experience include: Anxiety Depression Distress Loneliness Suicidal thoughts Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Dissociation In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month during October, the Psychological Services department at OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Services (Alton) will be hosting a FREE panel discussion event for Riverbend region residents to gain insights and access resources and learn how individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, as well as their family and friends, can address mental health issues that may accompany the diagnosis. A four-person panel discussion titled “Breast Cancer and Your Mental Health: Let us Help” will be held on Wednesday, October 9, Noon – 1 p.m., in the hospital’s Perpetual Help

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ALTON – A breast cancer diagnosis can have a significant impact on mental health, and it's important to recognize and address any mental health changes. Some common mental health concerns that people with breast cancer may experience include: Anxiety Depression Distress Loneliness Suicidal thoughts Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Dissociation In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month during October, the Psychological Services department at OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Services (Alton) will be hosting a FREE panel discussion event for Riverbend region residents to gain insights and access resources and learn how individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, as well as their family and friends, can address mental health issues that may accompany the diagnosis. A four-person panel discussion titled “Breast Cancer and Your Mental Health: Let us Help” will be held on Wednesday, October 9, Noon – 1 p.m., in the hospital’s Perpetual Help

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GODFREY – The start of a new school year means another new year for the RiverBend Growth Association’s Young Adults Committee. The Young Adults Committee (YAC) consists of student representatives participating from Alton, Civic Memorial, East Alton-Wood River, Marquette Catholic, and Roxana high schools. Senior student representatives are Adie Bemis and Seana Grey from Alton High School, Bella Murray and Marissa Perez from Civic Memorial High School, Mayonna Jaggie and Isaac Thornton from East Alton-Wood River High School, Tyra Wells and Rodger Zawodniak from Marquette Catholic High School, and Wyatt Doyle and Macy Hart from Roxana High School. Representing the junior class are Eden Hough and Kennedy Lacey from Alton High School, Natalee Belcher and Jacob Cranford from Civic Memorial High School, Landon Bomkamp and Adyson Bunt from East Alton-Wood River High School, Brianne Bagwill and Jami Jones from Marquette Catholic High School, and Anthony Hardin and Noah Smit

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GODFREY – The start of a new school year means another new year for the RiverBend Growth Association’s Young Adults Committee. The Young Adults Committee (YAC) consists of student representatives participating from Alton, Civic Memorial, East Alton-Wood River, Marquette Catholic, and Roxana high schools. Senior student representatives are Adie Bemis and Seana Grey from Alton High School, Bella Murray and Marissa Perez from Civic Memorial High School, Mayonna Jaggie and Isaac Thornton from East Alton-Wood River High School, Tyra Wells and Rodger Zawodniak from Marquette Catholic High School, and Wyatt Doyle and Macy Hart from Roxana High School. Representing the junior class are Eden Hough and Kennedy Lacey from Alton High School, Natalee Belcher and Jacob Cranford from Civic Memorial High School, Landon Bomkamp and Adyson Bunt from East Alton-Wood River High School, Brianne Bagwill and Jami Jones from Marquette Catholic High School, and Anthony Hardin and Noah Smit

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EDWARDSVILLE - High school students, transfer students and their guests are invited to explore the next steps in their academic career as Southern Illinois University Edwardsville hosts the Illinois Regional College Fair (IRCF) from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, in the Morris University Center on the Edwardsville campus. The event, sponsored by the Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling and in conjunction with SIUE, allows prospective students to meet with representatives from in-state and out of state-colleges and universities to learn about academic programs and other aspects of the student experience. Alicia Taylor, assistant director of admissions for campus visits in the Office of Admissions, shared that SIUE is thrilled to host this dynamic higher education recruitment event once again. “The fair is a collaborative effort between SIUE and staff from high schools around the region to expand access to and visibility of higher education options for

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GRANITE CITY - A first wellness-based marketplace gathering is being organized by Dr. Ashley Eavenson & the MCS team to be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, at 3986 Maryville Road in Granite City. The event will be located in the Multicare Specialists Building. Over a dozen wellness-based vendors will be on site with major gift giveaways. Gift giveaways include an Infrared sauna blanket, red light face mask, reverse osmosis water filter, top-of-the-line skincare and more. The FARM TRUK food truck will be selling delicious burgers, tacos, and brisket sandwiches as well as gluten-free and vegan options…so bring your appetite! After earning her doctorate in 2011 and taking over her father’s Multicare practice in Granite City in 2019, Dr. Ashley Eavenson has been on a constant search to continue her education on wellness, diet and functional medicine. In a world showing a continual decline in overall health, Dr. Eavenson & the MCS team aim

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EDWARDSVILLE - High school students, transfer students and their guests are invited to explore the next steps in their academic career as Southern Illinois University Edwardsville hosts the Illinois Regional College Fair (IRCF) from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, in the Morris University Center on the Edwardsville campus. The event, sponsored by the Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling and in conjunction with SIUE, allows prospective students to meet with representatives from in-state and out of state-colleges and universities to learn about academic programs and other aspects of the student experience. Alicia Taylor, assistant director of admissions for campus visits in the Office of Admissions, shared that SIUE is thrilled to host this dynamic higher education recruitment event once again. “The fair is a collaborative effort between SIUE and staff from high schools around the region to expand access to and visibility of higher education options for

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GRANITE CITY - A first wellness-based marketplace gathering is being organized by Dr. Ashley Eavenson & the MCS team to be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, at 3986 Maryville Road in Granite City. The event will be located in the Multicare Specialists Building. Over a dozen wellness-based vendors will be on site with major gift giveaways. Gift giveaways include an Infrared sauna blanket, red light face mask, reverse osmosis water filter, top-of-the-line skincare and more. The FARM TRUK food truck will be selling delicious burgers, tacos, and brisket sandwiches as well as gluten-free and vegan options…so bring your appetite! After earning her doctorate in 2011 and taking over her father’s Multicare practice in Granite City in 2019, Dr. Ashley Eavenson has been on a constant search to continue her education on wellness, diet and functional medicine. In a world showing a continual decline in overall health, Dr. Eavenson & the MCS team aim

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ALTON – The Alton Area Landmarks Association (AALA) invites the Alton community to its 52nd Annual Historic Building Tour Saturday, October 12, noon to 3:00 p.m. This free historic walking tour will cover East Broadway from Market Street to Ridge Street perched on the hillside overlooking the Mississippi River. Architectural styles include Italianate, Victorian, Classical Revival, Renaissance Revival, Craftsman and Mid-Century Modern designs. According to AALA President Terry Sharp, “By having our event on Saturday, people from Alton Main Street’s Farmer’s Market can come up the hill and enjoy the tour. Many restaurants and shops will be open and ready to serve. The tour will go rain or shine.” “We are thrilled to participate in sharing the historic beauty of Alton with everyone who is interested,” said Chad Brigham of AltonWorks. “A huge part of our vision is to revitalize Alton by preserving the rich history on which this city

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ALTON – The Alton Area Landmarks Association (AALA) invites the Alton community to its 52nd Annual Historic Building Tour Saturday, October 12, noon to 3:00 p.m. This free historic walking tour will cover East Broadway from Market Street to Ridge Street perched on the hillside overlooking the Mississippi River. Architectural styles include Italianate, Victorian, Classical Revival, Renaissance Revival, Craftsman and Mid-Century Modern designs. According to AALA President Terry Sharp, “By having our event on Saturday, people from Alton Main Street’s Farmer’s Market can come up the hill and enjoy the tour. Many restaurants and shops will be open and ready to serve. The tour will go rain or shine.” “We are thrilled to participate in sharing the historic beauty of Alton with everyone who is interested,” said Chad Brigham of AltonWorks. “A huge part of our vision is to revitalize Alton by preserving the rich history on which this city

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