Riverbender 🕸

GLEN CARBON – Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois alum KayLee Melton from Wood River, Illinois recently attended the Juliette Low Seminar (JLS) at the Sangam World Centre in Pune, India. She was one of only two Americans chosen to participate in the 2024 JLS at Sangam, which included selection criteria of being “willing to undertake new and challenging experiences” as well as a being a “mature and responsible global citizen.” KayLee’s achievements include being a Gold Award Girl Scout, Director of GSofSI Summer Camp, and a college student who is studying to become a teacher and still finds time to lead a Girl Scout troop. The JLS started in April 2024 with virtual events, and participants committed to three months of e-learning courses. Next, in-person conferences in three locations ran from Sept. 29 to Oct 4, 2024. The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts describes the seminar as, “a leadership development programme for Girl

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ST. LOUIS - Authorities have identified the victim of a fatal vehicle crash in St. Louis County as 71-year-old Max Ketchum, who resided on the 2900 block of Caspian Lane in St. Louis. The incident occurred at approximately 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, at the intersection of South Lindbergh Boulevard and Interstate 55. St. Louis County Police officers from the Affton Southwest Precinct responded to the scene after receiving a call about the crash. Upon arrival, they found Ketchum trapped inside his vehicle. Preliminary investigations indicate that he was traveling in the eastbound lanes of Lindbergh Boulevard when his vehicle veered off the road and collided with a concrete light pole, causing the vehicle to roll over. Ketchum was extricated from the vehicle and transported to a nearby hospital for lifesaving treatment. Unfortunately, he was later pronounced deceased. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and authorities have stated that additional information wil

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF) proudly introduces its 2024 state park series ornament, showcasing the iconic Devil's Standtable formation at Giant City State Park. Giant City, with its dramatic sandstone formations and rich history, is a treasured southern Illinois destination and a natural choice for this year’s commemorative piece. “Featuring Devil's Standtable is a tribute to Illinois’ unique natural beauty,” said ICF acting executive director Jenny Vaughn . “These ornaments let people celebrate our state parks in a meaningful way, turning a keepsake into a contribution to preservation. We’re excited to continue this series, and we welcome the public’s input on future selections.” Measuring 3 inches and crafted from high-quality diecast enamel, the 2024 ornament captures the essence of Devil's Standtable, a geological marvel that has become synonymous with the natural splendor of southern Illinois.

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COLLINSVILLE - Two local sex offenders have been charged by Collinsville police for unlawful failure to register. Roy L. Wright, 59, of the 2300 block of Adams Avenue in Dupo, and Austin L. Cates, 30, of the 300 block of Leila St. in Collinsville, were both charged with unlawful failure to register as a sex offender. The charges against both individuals indicate they have both since moved but failed to register under their new addresses. While Wright’s last known address is listed in Dupo, the charge against him states he failed to register within three days of establishing a residence in Collinsville. He had previously been convicted of the same charge in a 2012 Madison County case in which he used the alias “Tony Malone.” The charge against Cates states he has since moved from his Leila Street address. While his charge was classified as a Class 3 felony, the charge against Wright was a Class 2 felony, as this was Wright’s second or subsequent such offense.

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ALTON - Step into a magical holiday retreat where vintage charm meets modern festivities. Flock Food Truck Park & Bar in Alton has transformed into a stunning winter wonderland, complete with warm twinkling lights and carefully curated vintage decor and glassware that transport visitors to a bygone era of holiday elegance. "We're thrilled to welcome both familiar faces and new friends to our third holiday season," says Laura Windisch, FLOCK General Manager. "This year's experience promises to be our most magical yet, with an expanded menu and festive programming for all ages." The seasonal celebration features an impressive array of house-crafted cocktails served in vintage glassware, complemented by a new shareable food menu from Byrdies. Wednesday Trivia Nights Weekly entertainment includes free Wednesday night trivia, where teams of one to six can test their knowledge in a festive atmosphere. Brunch with Santa Families can enjoy special programming throughout

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is reminding consumers that Illinois’ winter weather rule will take effect from December 1 – March 31. The winter weather rule prohibits utilities from disconnecting eligible customers who use electric or gas as their primary source of home heating. “Frigid winters are a given in Illinois. The state’s winter weather rule offers peace-of-mind for individuals and families who might otherwise be struggling to stay warm during the coldest months of the year,” said ICC Chairman Doug Scott . To protect Illinoisans during dangerous cold, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) participants; electric space heating customers; and military personnel and veterans cannot be disconnected if they fall behind on their utility bills. The rule excludes disconnections related to theft, tampering, or safety. The cold weather rule also protects residential

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BETHALTO - Shelby Norris might be new to Meadowbrook Intermediate School, but she has spent her whole career in Bethalto and there’s nowhere else she’d rather be. Norris took on the principal role at Meadowbrook earlier this year after spending several years at Trimpe Middle School, Simpson Achievement Center and Civic Memorial High School. She knows firsthand how community-focused the Bethalto Community Unit School District #8 is, and she is proud to be a part of that environment. “This is definitely a community that leans into that Eagle Nation feel,” Norris said. “We are a community about our students. We come together when there’s crisis, but we also come together when there are good things.” As a young adult, Norris didn’t necessarily expect to become a teacher. She didn’t know what she wanted to do when she grew up, but she knew she needed to be of service. Her family taught her the importance of helping others; at

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CARROLLTON – Carrollton High School Principal Leslee Frazier is pleased to announce that four students from the Carrollton High School graduating class of 2025 have been designated as Illinois State Scholars. The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC), the state’s college access and financial aid agency, confers this important recognition of academic achievement to exceptional Illinois high school students annually. This year, more than 16,500 honorees join the other outstanding students who have been honored since the designation was first introduced in 1958.

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BELLEVILLE - A veteran employee of the Belleville Street Department was seriously injured following a collision with an SUV while he was preparing for the annual Santa Parade this past weekend in Belleville. David Harris, 64, sustained life-threatening injuries on Friday as he set up barricades on a downtown street near City Hall. The incident occurred shortly before the parade was scheduled to begin. David Harris has dedicated 36 years to the Belleville Street Department and was actively involved in the preparations for the community event. He was transported to Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, where he is currently receiving treatment. The Belleville Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision. No further details have been released at this time.

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GRANITE CITY – The Rotary Club of Granite City recognized juniors Kaden Kennedy and Lucy Klumpp as Students of the Month for November. Students were nominated by teachers, and were chosen on the basis of academics, as well as scholastic, extracurricular and civic honors and awards, and organization membership and leadership. Each honoree will receive a framed certificate and a gift card, and will be recognized at the Mayor's Prayer Breakfast on March 25, 2025. KADEN KENNEDY Three-year member of golf and hockey team ... Member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Hockey Club, Renaissance Club and Varsity Club ... Two-year High Honor Roll ... Secondary Honors ... All-Warrior Award ... Community Care Center and Relleke Pumpkin Farm volunteer ... Son of Trent and Sherry Kennedy. LUCY KLUMPP Three-year member of volleyball, soccer and track and field team ... Volunteer for Thanksgiving and Christmas Basket delivery ... Emerald Meadows HOA Lake Driver Annual Cleanup

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National Weather Service in St. Louis Meteorologist Brad Charboneau reported on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, that a light snowfall is expected to continue across the region, with initial estimates suggesting accumulation could reach up to one or two inches. As of about 10 a.m. Monday, there have been no reports of snowfall exceeding expectations, with the current totals around one inch. Charboneau noted that the heaviest snowfall is occurring in the morning on Monday, and light snow is expected to persist for about two more hours, potentially adding another dusting of snow. “We may see another dusting up to another inch, with a couple of areas close to two inches, which would be more than we expected,” he said around 10 a.m. Monday. Looking ahead, Charboneau indicated that Wednesday's forecast calls for a high near 50 degrees, which should help melt any remaining snow. However, by Wednesday night, temperatures are expected to fall below freezing, with Thursday's highs projected

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EDWARDSVILLE - SIUE’s Lovejoy Library will host an Emmy Award-winning storyteller. From 1–2 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024, students and community members are invited to Lovejoy Library to hear from Bobby Norfolk, a speaker, author, storyteller and teaching artist. Norfolk will be sharing stories about Kwanzaa and African folklore at this free event. “Bobby is a great storyteller, and he infuses history into his storytelling,” explained Simone Williams, Diversity and Engagement Librarian and an assistant professor at Lovejoy Library. “He’s a great educator who can tap into different learning styles and engage the audience.” Norfolk’s presentation is part of Lovejoy Library’s mission to celebrate holiday traditions from around the world. Williams explained that the library hopes to connect students and community members by educating them about different cultures and experiences. This connection is an important part of what

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HARDIN - On Nov. 7, 2024, the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office was notified by the Illinois Department of Child & Family Services of a possible Domestic Battery that was alleged to have occurred at a residence in Hardin, Calhoun County, Illinois. Calhoun Sheriff's Office Deputy Nic McCall with assistance from DCFS Investigators began an investigation on behalf of the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office. As a result of the investigation, the Calhoun County State’s Attorney’s Office filed a criminal information and requested a warrant for Travis L. Wooldridge, age 33, of Pearl, Illinois, for the following offenses: Aggravated Battery / Bodily Harm (Two Counts), Domestic Battery. On Nov. 25, 2024, Deputy McCall arrested Wooldridge for the aforementioned offenses, and Wooldridge was transported to the Greene County Jail where he is currently held without bail. The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office would like to thank Quincy Police Department, the Illinois Department

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HARDIN - At 11:12 p.m. on Oct. 26, 2024, a deputy sheriff with the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office conducted a traffic stop on Illinois State Highway 100, near Michael, Calhoun County, Illinois. As a result of the traffic stop, the driver, Dustin E. Black, 38, of Decatur, was arrested for the following offenses: Felony Driving While License Revoked; and, Improper Lane Usage. Black was arrested without incident and released with a Notice to Appear at the Calhoun County Courthouse. All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty.

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ALTON – Alton Pride’s third annual Thanksgiving Food Drive Competition was a huge success. Sixteen area locations participated in the competition, which ran October 27 thru November 17. A grand total of 2,817 non-perishable food items were donated over the three weeks, with about half the donations coming from this year’s winner! Partnering again with MMK Endeavors, the donated items were paired with turkeys to make Thanksgiving meals for families in the Riverbend Area and surrounding communities. This year, a total of 61 meals were distributed! Items left over after making the boxes were donated to the Brighton Food Pantry and Crisis Food Pantry. The competition's winner, having collected 1,419 items, was Pete’s Lounge. This is the third year in a row that Pete’s Lounge has won, making them a Three-Peat Top Turkey Winner! Pete’s Lounge is at 100 Big Arch Rd, Godfrey, IL 62035, near Alton Square Mall. Owner Mike Sholar takes pride in his men

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ALTON – OSF Medical Group in Alton is pleased to announce Isha McConkey, D.O., has accepted the invitation to serve as the Managing Medical Director for primary care and specialty care for OSF Medical Group in the Alton market. Dr. McConkey’s appointment as managing medical director was effective November 24. Dr. McConkey will oversee all primary care and specialty practices that encompasses: Family medicine Internal medicine Pediatrics Endocrinology Neurology Pulmonology Gastroenterology Her responsibilities will also span: Policy development and enforcement Contract management Safety and quality Patient experience Strategy Recruitment Medical education activities Additionally, she will collaborate with Dennis Sands, M.D., chief medical officer, and other members of the executive leadership team at OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center to align specialty operations with the hospital. "I'm honored to serve OSF Medical Group in

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As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with excitement and anticipation. One of the most cherished traditions during this time is decorating our homes. Creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere can enhance the spirit of the holidays for both residents and guests alike. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or simply the winter season, here are some tips to help you achieve a warm, festive ambiance in your home. Embrace Warm Lighting Lighting is one of the most critical elements in setting the mood for a cozy home. During the holidays, consider using soft, warm lights rather than harsh overhead lighting. String lights, candles, and lanterns can create a magical glow that invites warmth and comfort. String Lights : Drape them over mantels, wrap them around staircases, or hang them in windows. Opt for warm white lights for a classic feel or colored lights for a more playful touch. Candles : Use an array of candles in varied heights on dining tables or side

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As the vibrant colors of autumn begin to blanket the landscape, it's a clear sign that homeowners should turn their attention to seasonal maintenance. Fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the winter months ahead. Ensuring your property is well-maintained during this transitional season can help prevent costly repairs and enhance comfort. This article outlines a comprehensive fall home maintenance checklist, detailing essential tasks, practical tips, and examples to keep your home in optimal condition. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters One of the first areas to address during fall is your roof. The summer heat and intense thunderstorms can take a toll on roofing materials, making it essential to conduct a thorough inspection. Check for Damage : Look for missing, loose, or damaged shingles. If you find issues, consider contacting a professional roofer for repairs. Clean the Gutters : Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and ice dams in winter. Remove leaves, twigs,

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National Day of Giving, celebrated annually on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, is a heartening reminder for individuals and communities to come together in the spirit of generosity. This day encourages philanthropy, supports non-profit organizations, and promotes volunteerism. With the holiday season in full swing, it's an opportune time to reflect on the ways we can give back to our communities, uplift those in need, and foster positive change. In this article, we will explore various avenues for giving back, share inspiring examples, and provide practical tips to help you make the most of this meaningful day. Understanding the Importance of Giving Back Giving back is more than just a charitable act; it’s a commitment to fostering a culture of empathy and support. National Day of Giving serves as a catalyst for philanthropic engagement and community involvement, reinforcing the idea that even small acts of kindness can create significant impacts. When individuals and organization

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As the leaves turn vibrant hues of orange, red, and gold, and the crisp air signals the arrival of fall, there's no better way to embrace the season than with a steaming bowl of soup. Not only do soups provide warmth and comfort, but they also allow for creativity in the kitchen. With an abundance of seasonal ingredients available, fall offers a unique opportunity to explore flavors that are rich, hearty, and satisfying. Here’s a guide to some of the best fall soups to make this season, along with tips for preparation and variations to try. Celebrating Seasonal Ingredients Fall is a time when harvests yield a bounty of vegetables and grains. Ingredients such as pumpkins, squash, sweet potatoes, and root vegetables are at their peak. Additionally, hardy greens like kale and collard greens become staples in many fall recipes. Incorporating these seasonal ingredients not only enhances the flavor of your soups but also ensures you are eating with the rhythms of nature. Top Fall

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