Riverbender 🕸

ALTON - This National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Challenge Unlimited is calling for employers to hire people with disabilities. Stephanie Schrage, marketing manager with Challenge Unlimited, noted that there are 749,000 people in Illinois who have disabilities between the ages of 18–64, and only 49% of this population is employed. She said this “untapped workforce” wants to work, and Challenge Unlimited has programs to help make this happen. “We want to raise awareness around the fact that these individuals are ready to work, willing to work,” Schrage said. “Through Challenge Unlimited in particular, we offer training programs and job coaching.” National Disability Employment Awareness Month has been an annual recognition since 1988. This year’s theme is “Access to Good Jobs for All.” As more people are diagnosed with neurodivergent conditions, the number of people with disabilities in the U.S. is increasing.

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BELLEVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that intermittent daytime lane closures will take place on Lebanon Road from West Boulevard to Cross Street in St. Clair County, weather permitting, on Thursday, Oct. 10. The lane closures are necessary for the evaluation of pavement conditions. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all signage and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

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MADISON COUNTY - Illinois State Police Troop 8 is investigating a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 55 northbound at Illinois Route 4 in Madison County at 12:33 p.m. on Oct. 7, 2024. ISP said the following from a preliminary investigation into the crash: "The investigation indicates the following occurred: ISP Troop 8 responded to the location above for the report of a single-vehicle crash involving a commercial motor vehicle. "Unit 1, a Freightliner Truck Tractor Semi-Trailer was traveling northbound on I-55, when for unknown reasons, it left swerved and left the roadway, causing the trailer to overturn. No injuries were reported at the scene." The crash investigation remains open and there is no further information available for release at this time.

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ALTON - Officer wellness is a top priority at the Alton Police Department. Sacred Spaces of CARE, a local nonprofit that focuses on mental health and substance use, has partnered with the Alton Police Department to promote officer wellness. With wellness initiatives and increased support within the department, the goal is to help officers process trauma and make healthy choices. “We’re people too, and that’s what everybody kind of forgets sometimes,” said APD Lieutenant James Siatos. “We have to be kind of a light switch sometimes. Especially in the city of Alton here, we do have a lot of critical incidents that do happen here. There is violent crime here in Alton. So you’ll respond to a critical incident and then an hour later you could be at home bouncing a 2-year-old on your knee, playing with your kids." Siatos is a peer coordinator within the department, meaning he works closely with Sacred Spaces founder Megan Tyler. Together, they

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COLLINSVILLE — Representative Katie Stuart will visit the Collinsville Area Vocational Center (CAVC) expansion site at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, to review the construction plans and grounds. Stuart played a key role in securing $25 million in funding from the State of Illinois for the project. Stuart was invited to the site by Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich and CAVC Director Joe McGinnis, who will accompany her during the visit. The event will provide an opportunity for attendees to learn more about the expansion, view construction plans and renderings. The new CAVC facility aims to enhance Career and Technical Education in the region, marking a significant investment in local education. Further information regarding the event will be provided to attendees.

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PEORIA – OSF HealthCare is pleased to announce the appointment of Sister Agnes Joseph Williams, O.S.F., as the new Major Superior of The Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis, effective October 6. Joining her in leadership for the next six years are Sister Judith Ann Duvall, O.S.F., Sister Theresa Ann Brazeau, O.S.F., Sister Rose Therese Mann, O.S.F., and Sister Teresa Paul Selamat, O.S.F., who will serve as her council in guiding the Mission and Ministry of OSF HealthCare. Sister Agnes Joseph succeeds Sister Judith Ann, who has faithfully led The Sisters for the past 18 years. Under Sister Judith Ann’s leadership, OSF HealthCare has grown into one of the largest Catholic health systems in Illinois, staying true to its Mission of serving with the greatest care and love. Her unwavering commitment to our faith-driven Ministry has left an indelible mark on the communities we serve. "We are deeply grateful to Sister Judith Ann for her remarkable leadership, devotion, and

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GODFREY - Village Dispensary will host their first Fall Festival. From 12–5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024, community members can enjoy vendors, cultivators, discounts and deals at Village Dispensary in Godfrey. The dispensary will also sponsor a food drive where you can bring one bag of nonperishable food items to get 10% off your purchase. Alli and Allison, two representatives from Village Dispensary, noted that they care about helping the community. “We’re very community-focused,” Alli said. “That’s what we care about, genuinely. It’s easy when you care that much.” Their food drive will start on Oct. 19, 2024, and run through Thanksgiving, with proceeds benefiting several food pantries in the Riverbend region. Once a week, you can bring in one bag of nonperishable food items to get your 10% discount. The Fall Festival also marks the dispensary’s “half-birthday.” They have been open for six months at 11

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EDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville football junior quarterback Yale Weaver has had several big games for the Tigers this season. One of his better contests was a 24-for-35 passing night for 201 yards and four touchdowns against Jackson, Mo., on Sept. 14, 2024. He also had a strong game this past Friday in a triumph over 42-0 Alton at Alton and the week before in a 35-0 victory over Belleville West at home. Weaver is a Spencer Homes Male Athlete of the Month for Edwardsville. "I'm feeling good," Weaver said in recent interview. "The offense is looking great right now, just looking to dominate in conference." Weaver is very confident about the Tigers' chances in the SWC this season. "I feel good about all my guys, my line, my weapons, the defense. We've got a talented group," Weaver said. "I'm ready." There is a good solid plan for the Tigers and Weaver as the team prepares for the remainder of the conference season. On Friday, the Tigers hosts Belleville East in a 7 p.m. encounter

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is reminding the public that along with fall, October brings the start of the traditional respiratory virus season. The department is urging Illinoisans to use the proven tools that can safeguard them from illnesses that typically surge during the fall and winter, including COVID-19, flu and RSV. This includes getting vaccinated to protect yourself and your family for those viral diseases if you are eligible. The Department has upgraded its Seasonal Respiratory Illness Dashboard and has posted two new FAQ documents on its website providing the latest guidance on vaccinations and how to get tested and treated for these seasonal illnesses. In addition, the CDC has created a new Respiratory Illness Data Channel that provides nationwide county specific information that would valuable for anyone planning to travel out of state. “As our public health workers ramp up preparations for the respiratory virus

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BELLEVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that intermittent daytime lane closures will take place on West Boulevard from Lebanon Road to Illinois 161 in St. Clair County, weather permitting, on Thursday, Oct. 10. The lane closures are necessary for the evaluation of pavement conditions. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all signage and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

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BETHALTO - A recent data breach in Bethalto Community Unit School District #8 targeted Superintendent Dr. Jill Griffin, according to the school district. On Oct. 4, 2024, former district employee Barrett Deist was charged with computer tampering, a Class B misdemeanor, by the Bethalto Police Department. Deist previously worked as the chief school business official for the district. He currently serves as the business director at Roxana Community Unit School District #1. Deist accessed executive session and internet board documents from the Board of Education, as well as 23 personal employee files. In a press release , Bethalto Community School District #8 said that “various types of personal information” was viewed and printed. The affected employees have been notified. Deist did not access any student files. According to the school district, the data breach was related to several Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. “While we do not have an explanation

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Office of Undergraduate Admissions invites prospective students — including high school and transfer students — to take advantage of one of two Preview SIUE events. The day-long programs, slated to take place on Saturday, Oct. 26 and Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, will provide attendees the chance to explore SIUE’s array of academic programming, student life opportunities and student support services. Preview SIUE events are tailored as an open house and provide information catered to both prospective students and their guests. “Preview SIUE is a day where people from all across campus come together to welcome prospective students and show them how SIUE can help them achieve their educational goals,” said Alyssa Taylor, assistant director of admissions for campus visits in the Office of Admissions. “Students can talk with professors from different academic programs and current students, explore

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GLEN CARBON - One of the leaders of the Father McGivney Catholic boys soccer team this fall is Spencer Martin. Martin is a captain and forward for the Griffins team. Martin is a Byron, Carlson, Petri & Kalb Male Athlete of the Month for the Griffins. “Spencer is a senior who will be sorely missed with the Griffins at the end of the season," his coach Matt McVicar said. “He is also an excellent PK kicker and offensive threat.” “He is very talented and has created a lot of chances for us,” the coach added. Martin said since the age of three, the game of soccer has exposed him to new cultures and opportunities throughout the United States and Europe. “I wish to continue my journey and strive to contribute to a collegiate team that shares my passion, vision, and dedication while also pursuing a strong education in my future.” The talented McGivney soccer player has been all-conference and all-region. Martin has also been a St. Louis Scott

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EAST ST. LOUIS - The Illinois Juneteenth Committee, in collaboration with Miss Juneteenth USA, is proud to announce the upcoming 2024 National Miss Juneteenth USA Scholarship Pageant, taking place on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, at the East St. Louis Senior High School, located at 4901 State Street, East St. Louis, Ill. The event will run from 6 to 9 p.m. This national pageant celebrates the rich legacy of Juneteenth, Black excellence, and the “Juneteenth Journey,” offering a platform for young women of African descent to display their talents, academic prowess, and commitment to their communities. Contestants will compete for scholarships and the esteemed title of Miss Juneteenth USA, a role that amplifies the importance of education, heritage, and empowerment. In addition to the main pageant, the Jr. Miss and Little Miss Juneteenth USA Pageant will be held on Friday, Oct. 11, 2024, at the National Host Hotel, Drury Inn & Suites, O’Fallon, Ill. This event begins at

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There are few things more embarrassing than halitosis – better known as bad breath. Whether it’s that disturbing look on your significant other’s face when you give them a smooch, or that unpleasant odor coming from that stranger chatting you up at a party, bad breath can cause a little anxiety for everyone involved. “Bad breath can be a totally benign thing, and you just need to brush more, or it could be a sign that something more serious is going on,” says Breanne Gendron, a nurse practitioner for OSF HealthCare. “If you are someone who has bad breath despite regular like twice daily brushing and flossing, then it would be important for you to see your dentist to make sure everything's healthy on the inside of your mouth.” Gendron says bad breath is common. One in four adults have had bad breath at some point in their lives. It can also be chronic. And some people, Gendron adds, don’t even know they have bad breath due to a condition

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BUNKER HILL - Macoupin County PK-12 school district Bunker Hill CUSD 8 and their higher education partner Lewis & Clark Community College were recently recruited to participate in the non-profit Collegiate Edu-Nation’s first National P-20 Convening in Abilene, Texas. Completely funded by a grant from the Carnegie Foundation, the team was accompanied by a representative from the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS). Collegiate Edu-Nation (CEN), a non-profit dedicated to bringing economic development via educational opportunities to rural communities across America, hosted the event with education leaders, higher education partners, and policy makers from the following states: Texas, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, New Mexico, California, Missouri, Kentucky Ohio, and Illinois. The purpose of the convening was to explore methods of creating workforce development within a PK-12 setting yet overlapping with higher education partners. Participating in the work sessions

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ALTON — Main Street Baptist Church is set to host its annual Trunk or Treat event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024 at 507 Main St., Alton. The event aims to bring the community together for a safe and enjoyable Halloween celebration. With a history spanning 87 years, Main Street Baptist Church is well-established in the Alton area, known for its family-oriented and welcoming atmosphere. The church's mission is to praise the Lord and spread God's word, and it emphasizes a friendly environment for all attendees. "We are family-oriented and provide a safe environment," a church representative stated. "We love God and enjoy speaking to people without being pushy." The Trunk or Treat event will feature various activities designed to engage families and children in the community. It is free to attend, and organizers encourage everyone to join in the festivities. In addition to the Halloween event, Main Street Baptist Church holds Sunday services at 10:45 a.m. and Sunday

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COLLINSVILLE – The Illinois State Police (ISP) Troop 8 announced the results of recent Roadside Safety Checks (RSC) conducted in Madison and St. Clair Counties in September. The initiative aimed to enhance road safety by identifying and removing impaired drivers from the road. During the RSCs, law enforcement officers issued a total of 73 citations and arrests. Among these, six were for Driving Under the Influence (DUI), while 34 involved driver’s license offenses. Additional violations included 26 registration offenses, seven insurance violations, and one occupant restraint offense. Officers also provided 22 written warnings during the operation. According to ISP Commander Casey Faro, alcohol and drug impairment contribute to more than 47% of all fatal motor vehicle crashes in Illinois. The statistics highlight the urgency of such safety checks, as there is one alcohol-related traffic fatality every 39 minutes in the United States. The Roadside Safety Checks were funded

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, MO. — A masked group of neo-Nazis displayed swastika flags and banners promoting white nationalism on Saturday, October 5, 2024, near the Mason Road Overpass along Interstate 64 in west St. Louis County. The demonstration, which drew attention from local residents and officials, occurred in the congressional district of Ray Hartmann, a candidate for Congress in Missouri. Hartmann expressed shock at the presence of the protestors but acknowledged their right to demonstrate in America. Hartmann's mother fled from the Nazi control as a child at 9 years old, so he described this issue as deeply personal. "My mom escaped but her parents, my grandparents, and an aunt, were murdered. It hits home to me. This whole subject hits me in a very personal way." Hartmann said he is not organizing a protest, but he plans to participate in a counter-demonstration apparently at the same location as the neo-Nazi group. Details for the counter-demonstration have not yet been

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– U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced $2,327,751,005 in total formula funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to build and maintain roads, bridges and tunnels that will improve efficiency, reduce congestion, improve resiliency against climate change and modernize key infrastructure of the Illinois highway system. This funding was made possible through the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “Investing in our transportation infrastructure is about more than just improving our roads and bridges, it’s about growing our economy and making getting to work, school and throughout our communities faster, safer and more efficient,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to see this federal funding coming to our state today for critical upgrades to Illinois’s highway network. I will continue to work alongside

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