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In the holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and connection with loved ones. Among the various traditions that mark this festive period, gift-giving stands out as a meaningful way to express appreciation and affection. While store-bought gifts are always an option, creating something unique and personal can carry even more significance. DIY gifts not only allow for creativity but also often come with a smaller price tag. Here’s a look at some engaging and thoughtful DIY holiday gift ideas that you can make right at home.Photo Gifts Photo Albums and Scrapbooks One of the most heartfelt gifts you can create is a personalized photo album or scrapbook. Gather your favorite photographs with the recipient and compile them into a beautiful album. You can enhance the experience by adding captions, memories, and decorative elements like stickers and washi tape. This thoughtful gesture not only showcases memorable moments but also provides a lasting keepsake. Custom Framed

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Welcome to another edition of This Day in History, where we take a fascinating journey through time and explore significant events that have shaped our world. Today, we’re focusing on December 2nd, a date that has witnessed a myriad of pivotal moments across various categories globally. From groundbreaking scientific advancements to cultural milestones, let’s dive into some of the most notable events that occurred on this day. One of the most impactful global events to occur on December 2nd took place in 1942 when the first controlled nuclear chain reaction was achieved. In a secret laboratory under the stands of Stagg Field at the University of Chicago, physicist Enrico Fermi and his team successfully initiated a self-sustaining nuclear reaction. This monumental achievement marked a significant milestone in the development of nuclear energy and weaponry, setting the stage for the future of atomic research and the subsequent use of nuclear power in both energy production

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A retired educator couple with a history of giving is adding to their impact with a transformational gift to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Jim and Madeleine Haine of Stevens Point, formerly of Alton, Illinois, have committed an additional $500,000 to the Sentry School of Business and Economics at UW-Stevens Point, bringing their lifetime gifts to more than $822,000. Their contributions will continue to strengthen recruitment efforts and expand opportunities for students by creating new spaces and programs within the Sentry School. In honor of their generosity, the Sentry School of Business and Economics administrative suite will be named the James and Madeleine Haine Office in the remodeled Sentry Hall, set to open in 2028. The office will serve as the decision-making hub for the Sentry School, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the Haine’s contributions. Jim and Madeleine are both graduates of the class of '61 at Marquette Catholic High School in Alton. Jim

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Welcome to This Day in History! Today, we take a journey through time to explore significant events that occurred on November 30th and December 1st across the globe. One of the most impactful events that resonates through the ages occurred on November 30, 1835, when Mark Twain, one of America’s literary giants, was born in Florida, Missouri. Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known by his pen name Mark Twain, became a pivotal figure in American literature, renowned for his wit and social commentary. Twain's works, such as 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' and 'Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,' are celebrated for their deep exploration of themes like racism, identity, and the human experience. His unique narrative style and ability to capture the complexities of American life have left an indelible mark on literature and continue to influence writers and thinkers around the world. Fast forward to 1939, and we find ourselves in a world on the brink of war. On this day, the Soviet Unio

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ALTON - The Hayner Public Library District is gearing up for a busy December. “We’ve got a lot going on, as usual,” said Executive Director Mary Cordes. “We’re gearing up for a couple of programs that are coming up.” On Dec. 7, 2024, the library will host several events for community members to attend, starting with the Genealogy and Local History Library Open House . Located at 401 State Street in Alton, the Genealogy and Local History Library will welcome people from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to enjoy cookies, lemonade, puzzles and more as they tour the library. Cordes shared that the library is “beautiful” and will be decorated for Christmas, complete with roaring fireplaces. She hopes to see many people come out and enjoy the library while learning what all it has to offer. “It’s decorated like a Victorian-inspired Christmas wonderland,” she said. “If you have not been to the Genealogy and Local History

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GRANITE CITY - One man faces six felony charges for a string of vehicle burglaries in Granite City over the course of three days. Torrey W. Sergerson, 28, listed as homeless out of Granite City, was charged with six counts of burglary on Nov. 21, 2024, after being charged with an initial count of burglary on Nov. 19, 2024. All charges were classified as Class 3 felonies. On Nov. 19, Sergerson allegedly entered a Chevrolet Cobalt without authority, intending to commit a theft. On Nov. 21, he reportedly entered another six vehicles without authority, including a Chevrolet Traverse, Jeep Liberty, Chrysler Town & Country, GMC Acadia, and Nissan Xterra, each located at various addresses around the city. A petition to deny Sergerson’s pretrial release adds he was “found in possession of stolen property from six (6) vehicle burglaries occurring over the course of three days.” He was also on parole at the time of the incidents and had an outstanding warrant from th

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EAST ALTON – After its 22nd Annual Water Festival was rained out in September, the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center took the experience on the road. NGRREC’s Education team launched the first Water Festival on Wheels (WOW), a mobile version of the popular event, and visited North Elementary School in Godfrey on Nov. 1, engaging around 150 fifth grade students across six different classes. "While we were disappointed to cancel the original Water Festival, we were excited to launch WOW and continue offering engaging water education opportunities for students," Environmental Educator Jolena Pang said. "The support from our partners and the teachers and staff at North Elementary made this first mobile Water Festival a great success." Pang worked closely with seven local partner organizations to create a hands-on educational experience, bringing water education directly to students on North’s football field, just next door to NGRREC’s

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ALTON - Jayden Snow is a well-rounded student athlete and performer. For his hard work, Jayden Snow is a Hayner Public Library District Student of the Month for Alton High School. As a senior at Alton High School, Snow has had the opportunity to get involved in a variety of programs and extracurriculars. He has been a thespian since his freshman year, and he joined the chamber choir during his sophomore year. He has been recognized by the Illinois Music Education Association two times as a member of their auditioned performance choir. Snow also plays tennis, and he was tapped to join the varsity team as a sophomore. In the past few months, Snow has discovered a new passion as a member of Scholar Bowl. He enjoys challenging himself as a member of the Math Team and the Physics Club. He was also recently inducted into National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta, a mathematics honor society. These memberships require high grades and many hours of community service. Snow often

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ALTON - The Alton Band and Orchestra Builders will host their 35th annual Olde Alton Arts and Craft Fair. On Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024, community members are invited to Alton High School to shop handmade products, including jewelry, decor, clothing, and more. Proceeds from the fair go to the Alton Band and Orchestra Builders (ABOB) to boost the Alton Community Unit School District #11 music program. “The event supports Alton's music programs and is a wonderful way to celebrate the arts while contributing to a meaningful cause,” said Amy Macias, who organized this year’s fair alongside her husband Brian. “The Craft Fair is truly instrumental (pun intended) in ensuring all Alton School District students have access to the exceptional music program. Every dollar raised supports the district’s band and orchestra programs, allowing ABOB to fund essential resources so no student is left behind.” Breakfast starts at 8 a.m. on both

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BELLEVILLE - A Belleville man was charged with domestic battery and more after pursuing the victim and threatening witnesses with a weapon he claims was a toy borrowed from a nearby child. Xavier S. Lacey, 19, of Belleville, was charged with one count of aggravated domestic battery (a Class 2 felony), domestic battery (a Class A misdemeanor), and three counts of aggravated assault (each Class A misdemeanors). The victim in this case reported that Lacey “forcefully grabbed her by the collar of her sweatshirt, pushing her against a wall, choking her,” according to a petition to deny Lacey’s pretrial release. “She was able to break free and fled, and was observed by the victim and witnesses, pursuing her with a firearm in hand,” the petition states “Victim and witnesses report that stated he intended to kill the victim.” Lacey then reportedly “turned his attention to two witnesses, also pointing the firearm at them, before fleeing

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SPRINGFIELD — Illinois hunters reported a preliminary total of 54,661 deer harvested during the first weekend of the 2024 firearm deer season, which took place from Nov. 22 to Nov. 24. This figure reflects an increase from 53,348 deer harvested during the same period in 2023 and 52,354 in 2022. The seven-day firearm deer season in Illinois will continue through Dec. 5-8, with additional hunting opportunities scheduled for the remainder of the 2024-2025 season. These include a muzzleloader-only deer season from Dec. 13-15, as well as late-winter antlerless-only and chronic wasting disease deer seasons in select counties from Dec. 26-29 and Jan. 17-19. The archery deer season remains open through Jan. 19, though it will be closed in counties that are open for firearm deer hunting from Dec. 5-8. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources provides further details on deer hunting regulations and opportunities on its website. Preliminary harvest totals by county for the first weeken

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GRANITE CITY – Lane restrictions will be in place on westbound I-270 over the Mississippi River near Granite City on December 2, 2024, as the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) conducts inspections of the structure. The right lane will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., weather permitting, reducing traffic to one lane. IDOT officials indicated that all entrance and exit ramps will remain open during this time. Motorists are advised to expect delays and to allow extra time for their travels in the area. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to flaggers and signs in the work zones, adhere to posted speed limits, and remain vigilant for workers and equipment. IDOT recommends using public transportation or traveling during non-peak hours when possible.

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JERSEYVILLE - The grand reopening date for the Susnig Center in Jerseyville has been made official. A Rededication Ceremony for the complex will be held on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, starting at 8 a.m. Mayor Kevin Stork made the announcement at Tuesday’s City Council meeting. As previously reported on Riverbender.com , the Susnig Center underwent a major renovation last year, seeing the installation of new gym flooring, new ADA-compliant bleachers, new restroom facilities, and much more. The facility, which is located at 401 Mound St. in Jerseyville, also houses the Jerseyville Parks & Recreation Department and the Illinois Valley Economic Development Corporation’s Senior Center. The Rededication plans come amid news of the Susnig Center getting a new neighbor in the future, as Illinois Valley seeks to expand their adult education and workforce training programs into a new building nearby. More details on those plans are available in our previous coverage o

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ST. LOUIS - An arts foundation is planning to build and arts and entertainment facility in St. Louis' Downtown West neighborhood. On Thursday, the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) Board of Directors approved $5 million in New Markets Tax Credits to develop Delmar Stage and Studios at 2233 Delmar Blvd. A project totaling $6.25 million. In the coming months, the current tenant in the space will vacate, allowing the Kranzberg Arts Foundation (KAF) to buy the property and develop the building. KAF intends to lease the property to Logic Systems Holdings, which owns an audio, lighting, and video production company based in Valley Park, Missouri. Logic Systems Holdings will relocate roughly 150 employees to the City of St. Louis, including up to 100 more part-time employees depending on the season. Future phases and plans include new stages for film, television, and music. KAF will embed its workforce development program in the facility as well. “This is a transformative

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The holiday season can serve as a wonderful time when family and friends gather to give thanks, reflect on the year, and celebrate. And while this can be an exciting time, for some, the financial stress can have a profound impact on mental health and can cause depression, anxiety, feelings of hopelessness, and can even put a strain on relationships. These feelings may intensify during the holiday season for a number of reasons including gift-giving expectations or entertaining and travel expenses. Families may feel pressured to keep up with holiday traditions, which may include elaborate meals, decor, and holiday activities. These costs can add up quickly. However, this doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! Below, we discuss a few tips for enjoying the holiday season on a budget: Delay buying: If you wait at least 30 minutes before making a purchase, this could result in you buying less. Share the load: If you’re hosting a meal, prepare the main dish and one side

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GLEN CARBON - Kellerman Investigations will once again host a Toys for Tots drive. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, community members are invited to stop by Kellerman Investigations at 60 S. Main Street in Glen Carbon to donate toys and enjoy games, a photo booth, raffles and more. Kimberly Brown, who helped organize the event, noted that the goal is to assist local families while providing a fun time for attendees. “We’re all blessed in our own way,” Brown said. “But to see people that are still struggling be able to contribute toys for children, that is bigger than one person. That’s a feeling, and that’s what this is about. It’s about donating for the children who don’t know any better, who should not have to worry about whether they’re going to get a toy to open up or not.” While the goal of the event is to collect donations, Brown noted that there will also be games and activities for attendees,

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November 28 holds a significant place in history, marked by a multitude of impactful events that have influenced the world across various fields. One of the most notable events on November 28 occurred in 1943, during World War II, when the Tehran Conference began. This landmark meeting brought together the leaders of the Allied Powers: Franklin D. Roosevelt of the United States, Winston Churchill of the United Kingdom, and Joseph Stalin of the Soviet Union. The conference aimed to strategize the next phases of the war against the Axis powers and laid the groundwork for the post-war order. The discussions at Tehran were critical in shaping the course of the war, leading to the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany and establishing the foundations for the United Nations. The collaborative spirit witnessed during this conference exemplified the importance of diplomacy in resolving global conflicts. Fast forward to 1979, when the United States and China took a momentous step towards normalization

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WOOD RIVER - This Thanksgiving, one of the many things Riverbend residents have to be thankful for are the countless volunteers who make our communities cleaner, better places to live. Rusty Wheat, a one-man cleanup crew and outspoken advocate against roadway litter, is one of those volunteers taking action and making a difference in his community. Wheat has a well-documented history of not only advocating for a cleaner community, but taking action to make it happen. In 2023, he told the Madison County Board to “ do a better job ” regulating garbage trucks with loose netting that were spilling trash along county highways towards the Roxana landfill. Frustrated by the lack of local government action, he took matters into his own hands and formed the “Chain Gang,” the name of his not-for-profit charter under the Illinois Adopt-A-Highway code. In a recent Letter to the Editor , Wheat said the name refers to his “ties to the community,”

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GODFREY - Students at Evangelical School recently enjoyed a Thanksgiving meal together. Along with the parent group EPIC, students helped prepare a Thanksgiving feast to share last week. Students made side dishes in the days leading up to the meal, and then all 350 students ate together in the gym on Nov. 20, 2024. “It embodies a sense of community,” said Jamie Milligan, who chairs the event with EPIC. “We’re a small community here. It's important to develop those relationships across the age timeline. I think it’s important for the older kids and the younger kids to interact.” Middle school students were paired with kindergarteners and pre-schoolers to help the younger kids decorate placemats and collect their meals. Many students wore hand-made turkey hats and enjoyed sampling the food they prepared. Principal Amanda Macias noted that the tradition is a fun way to bring the school community together. She said the Student Council also

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JERSEYVILLE - Jerseyville’s tenth annual Downtown Country Christmas Festival promises a fun day for families this weekend. On Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, kids of all ages and their loved ones can come out to City Center Park in Jerseyville. The festivities kick off at 1 p.m., and Santa Claus will be arriving by helicopter at 1:30 p.m. Kids can enjoy a movie, bounce houses, activities and Elf School, all for free. The event will conclude with a City of Jerseyville tree lighting ceremony at 5 p.m. and a parade to Dolan Park at 5:30 p.m. “It’s going to be great,” said organizer Michael Ward. “Honestly, it’s good to see everybody enjoying themselves and getting out in Jerseyville. There’s a lot going on that day.” Ward said that the Downtown Country Christmas Festival is often compared to a Hallmark movie. The entire community comes out to kick off the holiday season. The Stadium Theater will be showing “The Polar Express”

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