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Chocolate lovers around the world rejoice every year on October 28th, a day dedicated to celebrating one of the most beloved treats: chocolate. National Chocolate Day is a perfect occasion to indulge in this delightful confectionery in various forms and flavors. Whether you prefer it in bars, cakes, or hot beverages, this day offers countless ways to enjoy chocolate. In this article, we will explore the history of chocolate, its various forms, and provide a selection of fun and creative treat ideas to make your National Chocolate Day celebrations memorable. The Rich History of Chocolate Before diving into the delicious ways to celebrate National Chocolate Day, it’s worth noting the rich history of chocolate. The story of chocolate dates back over 3,000 years to the ancient Mesoamerican cultures, including the Olmecs, Mayans, and Aztecs. They prepared a bitter drink made from cacao beans, often flavored with spices or honey. Chocolate was so revered that it was used in religious

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Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, is a holiday filled with costumes, candy, and spooky decorations. However, behind the playful masks and carved pumpkins lies a deep-rooted history that spans centuries and blends ancient customs with modern festivities. The origins of Halloween can be traced back to ancient Celtic festivals, early Christian practices, and a mixture of folklore and traditions from across the world. This article explores the rich history and evolution of Halloween, highlighting its key traditions and how they have transformed over time. The Ancient Roots: Samhain The origins of Halloween date back over 2,000 years to the Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced "Sow-in"), celebrated in what is now Ireland, the United Kingdom, and northern France. For the Celts, November 1 marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter, a time associated with death and the supernatural. The night before, October 31, was believed to be a time when the boundary between

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CAHOKIA HEIGHTS - St. Louis Downtown Airport has been awarded $4,740,328 in funding through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Grant Program to help cover the cost of completing the third phase of construction for its taxiway reconstruction project. The work on Taxiway Bravo will be completed under an intergovernmental agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). The multi-phased planning, design and reconstruction project is included in the airport’s State and Federal Capital Improvement Plan that supports airport safety, operations, and users. “This funding is a necessary, big win that moves us closer to completing the multi-phased reconstruction project to strengthen airport safety and operations,” said Mary Lamie, Executive Vice President of Multimodal Enterprises at Bi-State Development, which owns and operates the St. Louis Downtown Airport as one of its enterprises. “Our airport serves as an importan

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COLLINSVILLE – Collinsville High School Principal Dr. Daniel Toberman announced that senior Selah Hart was named a Commended Student in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. Hart is among 34,000 scholastically talented seniors throughout the nation who are being recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC®) for exceptional academic promise. Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 (96th percentile) of students who entered the 2025 competition by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®). "Those being named Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success," commented a spokesperson for NMSC. "These students represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation. We hope that this recognition will help

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ALTON - There has been a large police presence in the 3800 block of Horn Avenue in Alton this morning on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024. The Madison County Sheriff's Office and Alton Police Department were viewed at the scene. Madison County Chief Deputy Sheriff Marcos Pulido said the sheriff's office was assisting the Alton Police Department in the investigation. As soon as more information is available about the investigation, Riverbender.com will publish it for viewers.

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GODFREY – Godfrey residents may notice a mailing this week from Homefield Energy introducing themselves as the new electric supplier for the area’s electric aggregation program. For those unfamiliar with the program, Godfrey voters overwhelmingly approved a referendum on the ballot back in 2012 to enter into an electric aggregation program with a company called Good Energy. Along with many surrounding communities in southwestern Illinois, Godfrey would benefit from the collective purchasing power of this large consortium. Historically, participating in the program has resulted in significant cost-savings for residents. Over the past two years, however, there has been substantial volatility in the electricity market driven by clean air initiatives and a poor economy, resulting in higher prices. During the last contract period with Good Energy, the supplier was Constellation NewEnergy as the previous supplier, Homefield, couldn’t be competitive in their pricing. As

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EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville - The Southern Illinois University (SIU) School of Dental Medicine (SDM) in Alton once again opened its doors to the community on Monday, Oct. 14, for its annual Give Kids a Smile Day (GKAS) clinic, offering free dental care to children in need over the October school holiday. The clinic served 190 children, 40 more than last year, and provided $113,530 worth of dentistry to the community, according to Katie Kosten, DMD, director of Community Dentistry in the SIU SDM. Watch patients interact with the Tooth Fairy and dental students. In attendance were SIUE Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD, and SIU SDM Dean Saulius Drukteinis, DMD, PhD, who interacted with families and shared the importance of the event. Minor acknowledged the dental students who performed the dental work, which ranged from cleanings and fillings to extractions and imaging. “I spend a lot of time thanking our students for doing this and underscoring how

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GODFREY - Staff members at Alton School District’s Early Childhood Center know how to start the day off right. Every day before the morning and afternoon sessions at the center, teachers and staff members line the hallway to cheer and welcome the students to school. Cynthia Schuenke, the director of the Early Childhood Center, noted the importance of creating a fun environment for kids and teachers. “It really energizes the staff and shows how excited they are to welcome our students each day,” Schuenke said. “The staff at the Early Childhood Center are an amazing group of educators, and we are so fortunate to have them working with our students in our district. This daily cheer shows how much they look forward to working with our students and seeing them at school each day.” The “daily routine” is the norm at the Early Childhood Center. Schuenke said it has a powerful effect on the atmosphere and energy of each school day. She believes

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JERSEYVILLE - Things are getting spooky in Jerseyville as local businesses and vendors welcome the Halloween season with a special “ Nightmare on State Street ” event on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m. Throughout the evening, several Jerseyville businesses are joining in on the festive fun with discounts, specialty drinks, local vendors, photo opportunities, and more. The Jersey County Historical Society will host self-guided “Dearly Departed” tours at the Cheney Mansion from 5 to 8 p.m. Visitors can learn more about the funerary, mourning, and embalming customs of the city’s past for just $5 each (payable to a Historical Society volunteer upon arrival). With the rest of the mansion also available to tour, attendees can get an inside look at one of Jerseyville’s most historically significant homes. All proceeds will support the ongoing restoration of the Cheney Mansion. DJ's Pub & Grill will be serving a special fall-festive

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EDWARDSVILLE - During their regular meeting on Oct. 16, 2024, the Madison County Board took a moment to remember Charles “Skip” Schmidt. Schmidt was a board member who died on Oct. 3, 2024. Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler started the Oct. 16 board meeting with a moment of silence to honor Schmidt. “Schmidt was a retired school teacher and coach at the Ferguson Florissant School District for more than 25 years,” Prenzler said. “He coached various sports through the years, to include football, volleyball and tennis. In 1989, Schmidt and his wife Cindy moved to Edwardsville, where he got involved in the community and served on various boards and organizations.” Schmidt served as an Edwardsville Township trustee and a member of the Edwardsville Parks Board. He worked with local organizations like Faith in Action, the Metro East Humane Society, the Edwardsville YMCA, The Wildey and the Edwardsville Rotary Club. He was elected to the Madiso

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LIVINGSTON – Illinois American Water has initiated essential maintenance at its water treatment plant in Livingston, prompting a systemwide boil water order for the Livingston District. The order will take effect at noon on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024, as the company works to replace pipe connections and valves. Customers in the Livingston area will receive direct notifications regarding the boil water order. This maintenance effort is part of Illinois American Water’s ongoing commitment to upgrading its water and wastewater systems, aimed at replacing aging infrastructure and ensuring the delivery of clean, safe, and reliable service. Illinois American Water said during the boil water order, residents are advised to bring water to a rolling boil for five minutes before using it for drinking or cooking. However, water can still be used for bathing, washing, and other routine activities. The boil water order is being issued in compliance with regulations from the Illinois Environmenta

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ALTON - The 107th Alton Halloween Parade is right around the corner. The East End Improvement Association is preparing for the parade, to be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024, in downtown Alton. Organizers Steve Schwartz and Greg Erler noted their excitement — and a few guidelines — ahead of the annual Alton tradition. “Since 1916, we’ve had this parade,” Schwartz said. “It’s gotten to be a community event. It’s fun to do. It’s expected within the community. It’s one of the best things that I’ve been involved in.” Schwartz and Erler said that the East End Improvement Association has “a great committee” that organizes the parade every year. This “well-oiled machine” has been working since early September to get everything ready for Halloween night. Parade participants will attend a meeting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024, at the Alton Moose Lodge to learn more about

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Welcome to another edition of 'This Day in History,' where we explore the significant events that have shaped our world. October 17th has seen its fair share of pivotal moments throughout history. One of the most notable events in recent history took place on October 17, 1989, when the Loma Prieta earthquake struck the San Francisco Bay Area in California. Measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale, this earthquake caused significant destruction and loss of life. It resulted in 63 fatalities, over 3,700 injuries, and extensive damage to infrastructure, including the collapse of the Cypress Street Viaduct on the Nimitz Freeway. The earthquake also disrupted the 1989 World Series, which was being held in San Francisco at the time. The Loma Prieta earthquake not only highlighted the region's vulnerability to seismic activity but also led to changes in building codes and emergency preparedness efforts throughout the United States. Fast forward to 1991, when another crucial event unfolded.

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GRANITE CITY - Granite City High School’s English as a Second Language (ESL) students experienced a memorable day at Busch Stadium in September, where they attended a St. Louis Cardinals game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The event, organized by broadcaster Bengie Molina, featured a 10-5 victory for the Cardinals. Molina, who is known for his work as a Spanish play-by-play announcer, hosted the students through his initiative, "Bengie's Buddies." This program aims to create opportunities for young fans, particularly those from diverse backgrounds. During the event, students participated in infield practice and had the chance to meet some of the Cardinals players before the game. In addition to the unique experience, each student received a free T-shirt, a meal, and a ticket to the game. Transportation for the group was provided by First Student, ensuring the students could enjoy the outing without logistical concerns. "We appreciate Bengie and broadcaster partner Polo Ascencio

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ALTON - Officers from the Alton Police Department responded to a reported robbery on October 16, 2024, at approximately 1:21 p.m. The incident was located in the 600 block of Spring Street. According to Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford, “The victim indicated that they are acquainted with the suspect.” Investigators are actively pursuing leads related to the case. Authorities are urging anyone with information to reach out to the Criminal Investigation Division at 618-463-3505 ext. 634.

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This October, the Riverbend Region comes alive with a diverse array of events that cater to all interests, from thrilling haunted attractions to delightful community festivals, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. For a complete listing of all the exciting happenings, be sure to visit https://www.riverbender.com/events/ . If you want to ensure that even more people in the region are aware of your event, email cj@riverbender.com and explore our range of Event Promotion Services! Featured Grab a book and your coziest sweater and head to Hayner Library at Alton Square Mall for our Fall Reading Retreat ! Enjoy fall treats (think apple and pumpkin flavored items), hot cocoa, tea, and coffee, paint a wooden pumpkin to add to your fall décor, chat about books, and take some time to read one too! You’re welcome to bring your own drink, treat, or anything else to help put you in the reading mood. Not sure what to read? Clear up your “to be read” list

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EAST ST. LOUIS — Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) will present a $500,000 check for the Parsons Place Preservation Project at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024. The funding is intended for Urban Strategies, Inc. to renovate the Parsons Place mixed-income apartment complex, aiming to catalyze future economic development and stabilize housing in East St. Louis. Budzinski secured the funding through a recent bipartisan government funding bill, following her request during the House of Representatives’ Community Project Funding process. Overall, she has obtained $136.1 million for various community projects across Illinois’ 13th Congressional District. “Earlier this year, I was proud to join colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass a government funding deal that provides critical federal resources to projects in Central and Southern Illinois,” Budzinski said. “I’m thrilled to have secured $500,000 for the Parsons Place Preservation

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GRANITE CITY – Celebrating Global Peer Support Day on October 17, Chestnut Health Systems™ honors peers who have transformed their own struggles into beacons of hope for others. Recovery Coach Jessica Banner exemplifies this mission through her inspiring journey from adversity to advocacy. “Change is possible for everyone,” says Banner. “I’ve walked that path, and I’m here to walk alongside you.” In her role serving Madison County, Banner meets clients where they are—whether in libraries, encampments, or community centers. She distributes vital resources like Narcan® (Naloxone) and fentanyl test strips, while also connecting individuals to essential support networks. Her personal story of overcoming substance use and homelessness resonates deeply with those she serves, including one client who recently texted, “Thanks, Jess, for giving me my hope back. I’m on my way to detox.” Banner’s childhood

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EDWARDSVILLE/SPRINGFIELD - One positive development in the health care industry post-pandemic is the expansion of virtual care services. Greater access benefits patients and providers, bridging gaps to make a virtual visit convenient and secure. Health care providers and staff using telehealth in their practices – or who would like to – will learn about the latest innovations and developments in this evolving branch of medical care at SIU Medicine’s 2024 Telehealth Conference on Tuesday, October 29. The all-day event can be attended virtually or in person at Memorial Learning Center’s MG Nelson Family Auditorium, 228 W. Miller St. in Springfield. Medical experts will lead sessions on telehealth legislation, policies and compliance issues. Presenters will also share case examples of telehealth’s uses within specialty and hospital care, providers' perspectives on telehealth, and research and practical applications. The conference is designed for telehealth

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BELLEVILLE — Students and volunteers from Belleville East High School's First Priority group participated in a Mobile Packing Event recently, where they packed more than 91,000 meals for those in need. The event, held at a local venue, aimed to support Feed My Starving Children, an organization dedicated to providing nutritious meals to children worldwide. Volunteers worked together to assemble meal packets, contributing to a larger effort to combat hunger both locally and globally. The initiative is part of Belleville East First Priority's commitment to community service and helping those in need. The substantial number of meals packed highlights the dedication of the students and volunteers who took part in the event. As a Christian nonprofit organization, Feed My Starving Children is called to feed children who are hungry in body and spirit. FMSC volunteers come from all walks of life from family, co-workers, students and strangers to help feed starving children.

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