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If you have a cancellation email news@riverbender.com or text (618) 623-5930. Closings and Cancellations: Brussels School District 1, E-Learning Day Calhoun School District 1, E-Learning Day Carlinville School District 1, E-Learning Day Carrollton School District 1, Closed Greenfield Community Unit School District 10, Closed Jersey Community School District 100, Closed Mt. Olive School District 5, Closed North Greene School District 3, Closed Southwestern School District 9, Closed

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ST. LOUIS, MO. – United Way of Greater St. Louis recently named Kiesha Hammock as their new Vice President of Community Investment. In this role, she will supervise and oversee United Way investment opportunities, Portfolio Managers and volunteers while also implementing and monitoring the investment portfolios of partnerships across the United Way safety net agency network. “We are thrilled to welcome Kiesha back to United Way as she returns with a wealth of experience and a proven track record of making significant impact. Kiesha’s expanded perspective and diverse skill set will undoubtedly help propel our agency network efforts forward as we leverage her expertise while forging ahead into our second century of impact.” Throughout Hammock’s career, she has developed large-scale systems change initiatives that are nimble, responsive, and attuned to the complex nature of social change. In her most recent role as Director of Partnership and Capacity

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Labor's (IDOL) Division of Occupational Safety and Health (IL OSHA) has released an incident report following the closure of an inspection and investigation of an apartment fire that left one firefighter dead. The Marmora Incident Report serves as an educational resource for the Illinois Fire Service while also detailing an incident in December 2021 that ultimately took the life of a firefighter. The firefighter, who had recently celebrated his one-year anniversary at the affected fire department, was alone on the first floor of the building when he experienced a life-threatening malfunction of his self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and called for a mayday (firefighter in distress). The firefighter was found unresponsive and out of air and rushed to a hospital. He died from his injuries five days later. IL OSHA determined there were several contributing factors that led to the death: The initial fire suppression team di

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CHICAGO – While more than half of the counties in Illinois remain at an elevated level for COVID-19 hospitalizations according to CDC data, the state’s overall respiratory illness level has decreased in recent weeks and is at Low in the most recent available data, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced. The CDC’s latest update of its COVID Data Tracker indicates that as of the week ending January 13, the state of Illinois is at Medium level for COVID-19 hospitalizations for a fourth straight week with a total of 1,393 hospitalizations reported during the week. A total of 54 counties were at an elevated level for COVID-19 hospitalizations with 50 of those at Medium level (between 10 and 20 COVID-19 hospitalizations per 100,000 of population) compared to 57 counties the previous week. Four counties were at High level (more than 20 hospitalizations per 100,000) compared to seven the previous week. IDPH notes that only about 24% of adult

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ALTON - An Alton business owner was indicted on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024 by a Madison County Grand Jury on charges of sales tax evasion, forgery, and filing fraudulent sales and use tax returns after years of evading more than $10,000 in taxes owed and more. Sufian Shihadeh, 52, of Alton, is described in recently filed Madison County court documents as the owner and responsible party for filing tax returns for Sufian & Noor, Inc., the corporation behind Jim’s Corner in Alton. From April 1, 2016 to Jan. 20, 2019, Shihadeh allegedly evaded more than $10,000 but less than $100,000 in taxes owed by providing “false sales figures to the accountant who then used those false figures to prepare and file monthly sales and use tax returns on behalf of Jim’s Corner,” according to court documents. Shihadeh was also indicted for filing a fraudulent sales and use tax return after “knowingly” understating the amount of “high rate” sales for the

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—Chair of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation—and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today requested United Airlines and American Airlines meet with members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation, U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the City of Chicago to discuss the path forward for the Chicago O’Hare Terminal Area Plan (TAP). In letters to United CEO Scott Kirby and American CEO Robert Isom, the Senators invite all O’Hare stakeholders to come together and reaffirm a shared commitment for increasing gate capacity, reducing projected costs and securing additional federal investments, all critical for the success of this nationally important project. “Completion of this project, including the 25 percent increase in gate capacity promised within the original agreement, is essential

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CHICAGO - The Illinois Supreme Court today issued a ruling in Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s lawsuit against Elite Staffing Inc. (Elite), Metro Staff Inc. (Metro Staff), and Midway Staffing Inc. (Midway). Agreeing with Raoul, the court ruled that the Illinois Antitrust Act does not exempt Illinois labor markets from antitrust scrutiny. “The Illinois Supreme Court has confirmed that Illinois’ Antitrust Act prohibits agreements among employers to restrict worker mobility and fix wages,” Raoul said. “I am pleased with this important result. My office will continue to enforce Illinois’ statutes to protect the rights of workers to seek better employment opportunities, wages and benefits, which allow them to support themselves and their families.” The matter stemmed from a 2020 complaint Raoul’s office filed against the three staffing agencies and their mutual client, Colony Display LLC. The complaint alleged the staffing agencies formed

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SPRINGFIELD - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Department of Central Management Services (CMS) proudly unveil the participants selected for the second cohort of the Governor's Office Academy of Leadership (G.O.A.L.) program. Following the resounding success of the inaugural cohort, this highly competitive program is entering its second year, reaffirming Illinois’ commitment to providing a robust professional development opportunity for the State's mid-level leaders, who play pivotal roles in advancing key initiatives and ensuring optimal operations for the state. “As Governor, I’m always excited to invest in our future by promoting leadership and community across our state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Today, I’m proud to announce the next cohort of incredible public servants chosen for the G.O.A.L. program. I have no doubt this diverse group of professionals will advance our shared mission of a stronger Illinois.” The G.O.A.L. program,

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BUNKER HILL - Lisa Webb with Third Street Realty wants you to know there are many avenues to being a homeowner, and you don’t have to do it alone. In her most recent “Third on Third with Third Street Realty” segment on “Our Daily Show!,” Webb discussed lenders and how different loans make it possible for people to become homeowners even with lower credit scores or a smaller down payment. While every situation is different, most people are eligible for loans or grants. “If you’re looking to buy, if you’re a first-time homebuyer or maybe you’re not a first-time homebuyer but you still need help with that down payment assistance, then this is an avenue that you can look at and pursue,” Webb said. “I can sit down with you and go over what you’re looking for, what would be a good fit for you, and then we can partner and connect you with a great local lender to help you through those processes and learn

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SPRINGFIELD, IL. - The Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs held its 113th annual convention at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield, Illinois January 12-14, 2024, and Natalie Evans of Jacksonville, IL., 19, was crowned the 64th Miss Illinois County Fair Queen. Natalie represented Morgan County at the 113th Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs Convention. “I’m a passionate girl,” said Evans. “I love cows, my family, the Lord. I hope I can follow in Paige’s (Van Dyke, her predecessor) footsteps and continue to show cattle while I’m queen.” Evans is the daughter of Sean and Amy Evans and is currently attending Murray State University majoring in pre-veterinarian with a minor in chemistry. She hopes to complete her education at the University of Illinois and become a large animal vet. Evans will be a summer employee of the Department of Agriculture. She will travel to about 30 county fairs and will be the official hostess of the Illinoi

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CHICAGO – For the second consecutive year, Illinois has been named the number one leader for workforce development in the Midwest region. The top ranking highlights the State of Illinois’ commitment to expanding access to innovative workforce programs and making critical investments through legislation and programming to reduce barriers to good-paying jobs in order to create a thriving business ecosystem for jobseekers, employees and employers. “The hardworking people of Illinois are at the forefront of our state’s economic progress, making us the top state in the Midwest for workforce development for the second consecutive year,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Since day one, my administration has been committed to making Illinois the best place to live. That’s why we’ve made transformative investments in workforce development, education, and our businesses—ensuring that every Illinoisan has an opportunity to thrive.” “Illinois’

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ST. LOUIS - Old Bones, Inc. will be displaying new paintings at Ellipsis Studios in St. Louis. Old Bones, Inc. is a collaboration between self-taught artists Andy Dykeman and Mark Regester. Their work reflects the DIY values and aesthetics that come from spending formative years immersed in the punk rock scene. Dykeman is an area chiropractor and is also known for his legendary float entries each year in the Alton Halloween Parade. The artists said skulls, UFOs, ghosts, spines, brains and fire are all common themes in their work with a healthy dose of writing and dark humor. The exhibit opening is from 5 to 9 p.m. on Feb. 3, 2024. There will be special guests, free refreshments, music and entertainment of all sorts. The show will be on display though February with limited viewing hours. Ellipsis Studio is located at 3304 Meramec Street, St. Louis, MO 63118. https://www.instagram.com/oldbonesinc/ Andy is from Alton, Illinois played in pop punk legends, judge nothing and is a loca

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ALTON - A man from Alton is facing four total charges for leaving the scene of an accident, aggravated driving under the influence, fleeing or attempting to elude police, and possession of unlawful manufacture/delivery of cannabis. Darius D. Hearn, 22, of Alton, allegedly committed these offenses on Sunday, Jan. 14, 2024. Hearn reportedly crashed his Nissan Maxima into a 2015 Jeep Renegade which resulted in damage to the car, but failed to stop and notify the vehicle’s owner and/or local police about the accident. A petition to deny Hearn’s pretrial release describes the incident as follows: “The defendant was identified as the person operating a motor vehicle, which crashed into a parked vehicle. He was observed passed out behind the wheel, parked on a sidewalk. Officers observed clear signs of intoxication, and upon being asked out of the vehicle, the defendant fled, leaving the scene of the crash. “He led police on a lengthy pursuit, and eventually

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ALTON - A man from Alton is facing five total felonies including residential burglary, criminal trespass, and damage to a property in Wood River, as well as attempting to elude a police officer and more, according to recently filed Madison County court documents. Steven L. Copenhaver, 33, of Alton, allegedly committed these offenses on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. His burglary of a property in Wood River resulted in the residential burglary and trespass charges. He also reportedly threw a brick through the victim’s window, causing damages in excess of $500. According to a petition to deny Copenhaver’s pretrial release, he reportedly threw the brick through the victim’s window and entered their property while they were sleeping. “Victim reports that the defendant demanded return of some of his property, then tried to take the victim’s phone as she called for police,” the petition continues. “He then fled and led police on a high speed pursuit.

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ST. LOUIS - A man from St. Louis has been charged with five separate counts of child pornography in addition to one count of attempted aggravated criminal sexual abuse, according to recently filed Madison County court documents. Terry M. Gerard, 46, of St. Louis, allegedly committed the child pornography offenses on or about Jan. 4, 2024, while the attempted aggravated criminal sexual abuse charge stems from an incident that occurred late last year. According to a petition to deny Gerard’s pretrial release, the underage victim of the attempted aggravated criminal sexual abuse allegedly reported the incident to the Madison County Sheriff’s Department on Dec. 14, 2023. Deputies found evidence of an additional crime after seizing Gerard’s cell phone. “Deputies seized the defendant's cellphone and pursuant to a search warrant conducted a forensic download,” the petition states. “Upon analysis of that download, deputies found the defendant to be

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GRANITE CITY - A GoFundMe has been organized to benefit The August Garden/Revival in Granite City after a fire engulfed and demolished the business at 1300 Niedringhaus Ave., Granite City, on Jan. 19, 2024. August Garden/Revival is a full-service florist, retail home, and gifts, with a charming vintage treasure shop. The business is owned by Judi Knapp and this store is a staple in the community and loved by many. The organizer of the GoFundMe for the business said the fire at the shop has been deemed "a total loss." "Please consider donating to Judi/The August Garden/Revival. Any amount helps — thank you," the GoFundMe organizer Tess Boyer Schenck said. To contribute to the GoFundMe, click here .

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ALTON - Kevin Frakes and Lee Cox are promising to chase the Winter Blues away with TWO special productions in February - with Treats and Sweets, AND delightful productions to be enjoyed by everyone. Lee is producing " Country Love" on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, February 11, 2024, at 2 p.m. in the Dorothy Colonius Foyer; ALT Board members will be creating plates of Chocolate Dreams while guests enjoy Musical Selections from seven local artists who will enhance a program that discusses the journey of loving Country Music. Guests will enjoy FREE Champagne, Hot Chocolate - and the chance to enjoy their favorite country hits performed by Lisa Rosenstock, Kathy Piercy, Margery Handy, James Cummings, Corrine Jones, Shea Maples, and Lorian Warford....and maybe a surprise guest! Up to (50) Tickets will be sold for each performance for $25 (which includes all refreshments and libations). AND attendees will have the chance to " Vote" for their favorite singer/duo

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EDWARDSVILLE - Are your houseplants withering in the winter? Andy Klos with Joe’s Market Basket has some tips to keep your plants perky all year long. Klos noted that “the houseplant industry has really taken off” following the COVID-19 pandemic, with more people purchasing houseplants to keep inside their homes. But many novice gardeners are still developing their green thumb, so he has advice to make caring for your houseplants easier. “I want to say right or wrong, a lot of people want to, we always say, give too much love to their houseplants. Houseplants don’t need your daily attention,” Klos said. “You can still talk to them every day, but maybe just let them do their thing.” This is the most common issue Klos sees. He encourages people to start with less “finicky” houseplants, like peace lilies or snake plants, and to do some research before they choose which plant to bring home. Every plant has different

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EDWARDSVILLE - Madison County’s Cross-River Crime Task Force has earned a prestigious Unit Award from the Southwestern Illinois Law Enforcement Commission and the Southern Illinois Police Chiefs Association. Members of the Cross-River Crime Task Force received Unit Award plaques and were honored during the annual awards banquet of SILEC and SIPCA. The banquet was held Thursday, Jan. 18, in Fairview Heights. “The members of the Task Force are truly deserving of this recognition,” said Granite City Police Chief Nick Novacich, who serves as commander of the Cross-River Crime Task Force. “Their tireless efforts, their dedication and their expertise have made this unit a success. As a result, the Cross-River Crime Task Force is having a genuine impact – making our communities and neighborhoods safer for everyone.” Established in 2021, the Cross-River Crime Task Force is comprised of select officers from law enforcement agencies across Madison County. Th

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ALTON/EDWARDSVILLE - The Alton and Edwardsville Overnight Warming Locations (OWLs) will be activated again on Friday night, Jan. 19, 2024. The overnight warming locations are at Deliverance Temple, 1125 Sixth St. in Alton, and First Baptist Church in Edwardsville, 534 St. Louis St. in Edwardsville. "Please make sure your clients and patrons are aware of the forecast that determines our activation. We do not want people to show up when the doors will be locked, so make sure they know where to check: www.riverbender.com/weather or 618-465-4545. If the overnight low temperature is predicted to be: 20 degrees or lower, we will be OPEN 21 degrees or higher, we will be CLOSED." "Thanks for all you are doing to help us serve our neighbors," the OWL lead team said.

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