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From dance extravaganzas and self-defense classes to eagle watching and winter jams, the array of upcoming events offers something captivating for every interest. For a complete listing of these diverse and exciting activities, please visit https://www.riverbender.com/events/ . Featured THE ACTOR’S STUDIO SERIES: Elephant's Graveyard by George Brant is a poignant play set to be staged at the ALTON LITTLE THEATER from January 26-28th, 2024. This compelling piece brings to life the true story of an unimaginable tragedy that befell a circus in Tennessee and its aftermath, revealing America's historical enthrallment with spectacle and vengeance. The Alton Little Theater is not just putting up a show, but is also giving back to the community. With 25% of ticket sales being donated to the AHS Drama Department, the AMH “Ribbons of Strength Program” at the Cancer Center, and the Wildlife Treehouse Center, your presence is not just an evening of theater, but a contribution

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BETHALTO - Civic Memorial sophomore Parker Parnell is in command of the Eagles' basketball and football squad offenses at his point guard and quarterback positions. He is an outstanding football player for the Eagles and is equally solid as a basketball player in the point guard role. CM head boys Coach Lee Green said Parker is having "a good year." Parker Parnell is a Tom Lane State Farm Insurance Male Athlete of the Month for the Eagles. He averages roughly four points a game for the Eagles but also averages 1.7 assists and 2.4 rebounds per contest. He is extremely valuable to the Eagles squad on both ends of the floor. "He directs the offense and he will just continue to get better as he continues to play," Coach Green said of his sophomore players' skills. "He played varsity as a freshman and he played three quarters in a regional game against Triad and we almost upset them last year. He is having a good season." Parker had a "great" summer last year and also plays in a spring

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EDWARDSVILLE - Three individuals from around Madison County have been charged with battery in recent weeks, according to court filings which detail several cases of battery, domestic battery, and additional charges filed. Ashley E. Harvey, 42, homeless, was arrested by the East Alton Police Department and charged with one count of battery and one count for an offense “relating to motor vehicles,” according to court documents. On Dec. 24, 2023, Harvey allegedly caused bodily harm to a victim by biting them on the arm and possessed a vehicle that she allegedly knew was stolen. Harvey faces a Class 2 felony for the stolen vehicle charge and a Class A misdemeanor for battery. Court documents indicate she was released upon her signature of a Conditions of Pretrial Release Order. Kyle T. Best, 40, of Edwardsville, was charged with one count of domestic battery by the Edwardsville Police Department. According to court documents, Best knowingly caused bodily harm to a famil

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ALTON - Roman Cross has been a busy man throughout his career at Alton High. He is a member of National Honors Society and has been working at a local Baptist church in the area to make peanut brittle and apple butter that can be sold for fundraising. Roman is also a member of Mu Alpha Theta and he has tutored a number of his fellow classmates at Alton High ranging in age from freshman to other seniors. Roman Cross is the Art Fahrner-Edward Jones Alton High School Remarkable Redbird of the Month. Roman is also a remarkable athlete. He is a multiple letterman for two varsity sports during his career as a Redbird. He will be starting his third season for Alton High on the baseball team. Roman had his season cut short last year due to injury after just four games. After enjoying success as a catcher, Roman will be moving to the outfield this coming season. The Redbirds' Head Baseball Coach Scott Harper is looking forward to having Roman's work ethic, talent, and leadership on the team

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EDWARDSVILLE - Four individuals from Alton and St. Louis have been charged with retail theft in Wood River, Alton, and Godfrey, including two cases of liquor theft from Walmart in Wood River, according to Madison County court documents. Foujita E. Anderson, 55, of St. Louis, was charged by the Wood River Police Department with one count of retail theft over $100. On Jan. 5, 2024, Anderson allegedly stole bottles of liquor with a total value in excess of $300 from Walmart. Court documents indicate she was released upon her signature of a Conditions of Pretrial Release Order. Oscar D. Davis, 52, homeless, was arrested by the Alton Police Department after allegedly stealing less than $300 worth of food items from the Walgreens located at 1650 Washington Ave. in Alton on Dec. 18, 2023. Court documents state Davis had previously been convicted of theft over $500 on April 25, 2023 in Madison County. Davis faces a Class 4 felony for retail theft, an upgraded charge due to this being

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ALTON - The Alton Police Department responded to the Clark Bridge at 7:40 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024, after it was reported a male subject was potentially in crisis. "Officers arrived and located a 33-year-old male standing on the ledge of the bridge threatening to jump," Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford said. "Patrol officers, assisted by an Alton Police certified crisis negotiator, spoke to the individual for approximately an hour and a half, at which time the individual agreed to come back over the rail to safety." Chief Ford said officers provided him with transportation to a mental health facility for treatment. "Southbound bridge traffic was diverted during the situation but has since been re-opened," Ford said. 988 is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

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ALTON/EDWARDSVILLE - The City of Alton and the City of Edwardsville have been named two of the “8 Best Towns in Illinois to Visit in 2024” by World Atlas , a geography website that shares information about different cities and countries around the world. The list, published last week, discusses tourist attractions and historical highlights in both cities. World Atlas encourages readers to visit these smaller towns to enjoy a “fresh holiday stay that you would not find in the big cities.” Alton was noted for its “interesting historical landmarks and exciting outdoor pursuits” as well as “quirky amusement centers” like the National Great Rivers Museum, Gordon F. Moore Community Park and the Jacoby Arts Center. World Atlas noted that Alton “offers something for everyone” and is the site of many historical monuments, including the Lovejoy State Memorial. Edwardsville was commended for its nature and recreational opportunities

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ALTON - The Alton Police Department has released information that Alby Street and East 20th Street intersection will become a four-way stop area within 30 days. The Alton Police released this information so the public will have ample notice of the intersection change. Alton Police Chief Jarrett Ford said an exact date will be announced once determined. "We understand there are mixed feelings on this decision," he said. "Alby Street at East 20th Street is the scene of frequent traffic accidents. In 2023, there were 21 traffic accidents at this intersection. Many of these accidents cause injury to those involved. "Simply allowing this to continue without intervention efforts was not an acceptable solution. As such, Alton City Council members voted to moving to a four-way stop intersection with flashing stop signs as well as flashing warning signs prior to the intersection. These bright devices will hopefully draw attention and let drivers know the stop intersection is near." Chief

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ALHAMBRA/WOOD RIVER - Alhambra's Legendary Mustang Sanctuary will host a murder mystery fundraiser to raise money for the hundreds of mustangs they care for every year. On Feb. 17, 2024, the Sanctuary will sponsor a murder mystery event at the Moose Lodge in Wood River. “Death By Chocolate” is a new story written for the Legendary Mustang Sanctuary fundraiser. Attendees can play games and solve clues to catch the murderer at the party. Tickets are $40 and all proceeds go back to the horses. “We’re coming up with our own stories,” explained Kathy Lewis with Legendary Mustang Sanctuary. “Once we get the ending to the story — we’ve got the main part of the story, but once we get the ending, there will be six people at a table to work on their clues and coming up with the whodunnit, what were they killed by, what’s the motive for the death. It’ll be fun.” Lewis added that there will be plenty of chocolate available

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ALTON - Illinois State Representative Amy Elik (R-Alton) is collecting “Valentines for Veterans” again for the fourth year in a row at her district office in Alton. Representative Elik is encouraging students and residents to make valentine cards with a special thank you, including well-wishes to veterans who served our nation in the U.S. Armed Forces. According to Rep. Elik, “Sending a valentine to a veteran for Valentine’s Day shows that we appreciate their service to our country and that we have not forgotten about their love for our nation. I enjoy delivering these each year to our veterans and seeing the joy and smiles the valentines bring to their faces. I appreciate the support from our community each year that help make this program successful.” All ages are invited to create a valentine’s card or drawing. Cards should be delivered to Rep. Eliks’ office, located at 192 Alton Square Mall Dr., Suite C in Alton by February 9. Please

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ST. LOUIS - The deceased has been identified in a fatal crash in St. Louis County as Mohamed Barud, 27 years of age, of the 4600 block of S. Broadway Street in St. Louis, Missouri 63111. St. Louis County Police Department Bureau of Crimes Against Persons detectives and the Accident Reconstruction Unit are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash in the area of New Halls Ferry Road and Dunn Road that resulted in the death of an adult male. St. Louis County police officers from the North County Precinct responded to a call for service for a motor vehicle crash in the area of New Halls Ferry Road and Dunn Road. Arriving officers located two motor vehicles involved in a crash at the intersection. Preliminary investigation has revealed a Toyota Corolla was southbound on New Halls Ferry Road. A Ford F-250 was northbound on New Halls Ferry Road turning west onto Dunn Road. The two vehicles struck in the intersection. The driver of the Toyota was transported to an area hospital but succumbed

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EDWARDSVILLE - Madison County Clerk’s Office, The United States Election Assistance Commission (EAC) has designated January 30, 2024, as Help America Vote Day. This day of action is meant to assist election judge recruitment efforts in communities across the country. Madison County is actively recruiting election judges for the upcoming March 19, 2024, General Primary Election and beyond. Election Judges’ duties include setting up and preparing polling locations, including setting up voting equipment, signing in and processing voters, demonstrating voting procedures, assisting voters, closing the polls, canvassing, and reporting election results back to the counting center at the night's end. To be an Election Judge in Illinois, you must meet the following requirements: Be a US Citizen Be able to speak, read, and write the English language Reside in the precinct where selected to serve as a judge Not be a candidate for any office in the election Not be a sex offender

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ALTON - Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, located at 2390 Homer M. Adams Parkway in Alton, is open after a “minor” fire. Doug King, Madison County Health Department Public Health Administrator, said it was a minor oven fire that caused no damage to the food. “None of the fire extinguisher equipment went off,” he added. “They actually used a handheld fire extinguisher to put it out.” The Madison County Health Department completed a routine inspection following the fire and approved the restaurant to reopen.

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ROXANA - One of the leaders on the hardwood for the Roxana Shells this basketball season has been sophomore forward Sean Maberry. Maberry has stepped up as a primary scorer on the Shells basketball program, and the team is reaping the rewards. When Sean Maberry’s on, it’s likely Roxana is firing on all cylinders as well. The Shells have won eight of ten games where Maberry has scored in the double digits. Not just a scorer, Sean takes pride in using his talents to set up his teammates. “I just try to get my team buckets whenever they need it.” said Maberry after a big win for his Shells against Bunker Hill. For his contributions, Maberry is a Midwest Members Credit Union Athlete of the Month for the Shells. Maberry is just a sophomore, but so important in the Shells basketball setup, and he credits his growth this season. “I feel like in my freshman year, I was just a little timid,” Sean said after a big 21-point game against Bunker Hill

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WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees—met with Swedish National Security Advisor Henrik Landerholm to discuss shared priorities in mitigating the risks that climate change poses to our national security as well as NATO-backed efforts to push back against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In their meeting, the group also discussed how Sweden’s world-renowned waste management system serves as an innovative solution to curbing climate change while supporting a circular economy, expanding their energy supply, reducing plastic waste in landfills and helping business. Photos of the Senator’s meeting can be found using the link here . “For years, I’ve warned that climate change is a both a national and global security threat—and I’m committed to doing everything I can to mitigate its impact before it’s too late,” said Duckworth.

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with Region 4 leaders of United Auto Workers (UAW) to discuss the union’s priorities, including protecting workers and ensuring that union members are supported as automakers transition to electric vehicle production. Durbin spoke about the reopening of the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Illinois, that was secured in the historic labor contract signed by the UAW and the Big Three automakers—Ford, Stellantis, and General Motors—last year. UAW leaders also thanked Durbin for his role in supporting UAW workers and in visiting two picket lines in Chicago and in Bolingbrook, Illinois. “Labor unions built this country. Along the way, unions, including UAW, have offered protections for their members and strengthened industries while holding employers accountable for workplace conditions,” said Durbin. “In my meeting with labor leaders today, I reiterated my support for

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SPRINGFIELD - Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced his office will host two virtual Technology Procurement Summits within the next month to raise awareness and share information about future opportunities as the office continues its technological transformation. Since taking office a year ago, Giannoulias has made modernization a top priority, laying out a clear vision for overhauling the Secretary of State’s archaic technology systems with the goal of making the office more customer-centric while providing a more efficient, secure technology solution for the State of Illinois. As part of this effort, Giannoulias is seeking vendors and partners to provide technological solutions and assist with the implementation of various technological projects. “We’ve been working hard developing the roadmap to modernize our technology, data, cybersecurity and digital user experience,” Giannoulias said. “Now, we can begin showcasing opportunities

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today released the following statement after the Senate confirmed Normal, Illinois, Mayor Chris Koos to serve on the Amtrak Board of Directors: “Mayor Koos has a long history as a powerful, positive voice in Illinois’ transportation sector. He understands the importance of passenger rail to communities in Illinois, the Midwest, and nationwide. His nomination, which we strongly recommended to President Biden, was well deserved. We voted for his confirmation today with the confidence that he will grow and protect Amtrak’s national network. “We’d also like to commend former Mayor Tom Carper of Macomb, Illinois, for his service on the Amtrak Board of Directors since 2008, including as its Chairman from 2009 to 2013. During his tenure, Mayor Carper ensured that Amtrak was valued as a national passenger rail system that offered valuable connections an

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with leaders and members from United Auto Workers Region 4 following the historic wins UAW secured in their new contracts with the “Big 3” automakers last year—wins that included 25% wage increases, cost-of-living adjustments, $5,000 ratification bonuses and other benefits for workers. Duckworth and the members also discussed the importance of protecting dislocated workers and communities and ensuring they are positioned to benefit from emerging technology as the automotive industry moves away from fossil fuel use. A photo from today’s meeting is available on the Senator’s website . “Last year’s historic agreement showed just how powerful workers can be when they come together and collectively bargain for better wages and benefits, while also proving there’s a roadmap for labor and industry to work together to help modern businesses compete, grow profits and succeed.”

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WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, called on his colleagues to reach a deal on immigration reform to restore order at the southern border while also enforcing these laws in a humane and fair way. During his remarks, Durbin slammed Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R-TX) for his continued inhumane practice when migrants reach the Texas border. Durbin said, “We must restore order at our southern border and enforce our immigration laws in a fair and humane way—that’s why the Senate has been engaged in bipartisan talks on a path forward for weeks. The Republican Governor of Texas takes a different view. He has implemented cruel and ineffective immigration policies that sow chaos, risk lives, and prevent federal border officials from doing their jobs.” Durbin cited various ways the Texas Governor has created chaos around this crisis. Through his Operation Lonestar,

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