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GRANITE CITY – Under the leadership of Head Coach Grace Hurst, the Granite City girls volleyball team has shown significant improvement, a transformation evident during a recent match against Edwardsville on Tuesday night. Although the Warriors ultimately lost 25-17, 25-10, the contest highlighted the progress made since Hurst's arrival and underscored the team's growth. Throughout the entire match, the Warriors returned some kills and hits from the Tigers that might not have occurred in previous years and the team played extremely well as a group and with constant energy and attention. Granite City recorded six wins this season and next season, the potential is there for many more. Hurst, a former standout player at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, praised her team's effort, particularly the contributions of the five graduating seniors: Noelle Richey, Brooke Dennan, Makayla Tanksley, Jade Williams, and Aubrey Whitehead. “I highlight our seniors, we had five

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JERSEYVILLE - Jerseyville City Council members quickly and unanimously approved a resolution changing the zoning classification for a property commonly known as “The Diner." Located at 111 Dorothy St. behind the Jerseyville Walgreens, the restaurant and bar announced last month it had undergone a change in ownership. Tuesday’s meeting documents reveal the new owners as Pearley and Wreatha Hanold, who submitted the rezoning petition. The reclassification was described as merely a “formality” to get the new owners set up with the proper zoning. The resolution’s passage will see the land’s zoning classification change from B-3 to B-3 with Special Use for Alcohol. The City Council unanimously passed a motion approving the Hanolds’ petition to rezone The Diner. Mayor Kevin Stork wished them both “good luck” as the new owners of the business.

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HARDIN - On Oct. 21, 2024, at approximately 6:10 PM, a Deputy with the Calhoun County Sheriff's conducted a traffic stop on Illinois Route 100, south of Poor Farm Hollow, in Hardin, Calhoun County, Illinois. As a result of the traffic stop, Joshua M. Kronable, age 40, of Brussels, Illinois was arrested for the following offenses: • Possession of Methamphetamine (Less than 5 Grams), • Driving While License Suspended, • Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Kronable was arrested without incident and transported to the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office. As is now required under the provisions of the new House Bill 3653, known as the SAFE-T Act; Kronable was booked and released with a Notice to Appear at a later date at the Calhoun County Courthouse. All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty.

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GODFREY - Lewis and Clark Community College welcomes veterans to attend the upcoming Veterans Day Celebration from 12:30-2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024 in the Ahlemeyer Atrium (Trimpe 141). The event is free, and the entire community is encouraged to come out and support our Veterans. L&C Veterans Services will provide light refreshments and special gifts for L&C veterans. “I look forward to spending time with the Lewis and Clark community honoring our Veterans,” Special Guest Laurel “Buff” Burkel said. “This will be an exceptional day to recognize their service to our nation.” Burkel will give an inspirational speech about the story of her survival and recovery from her helicopter crash. Her speech will highlight the power of positivity in supporting one another and its fundamental connection to personal resilience. “Buff is an amazing person with an incredible story,” Veterans Services Coordinator Sarah Albright said. “She

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GLEN CARBON - This September, in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Father McGivney Catholic High School students and the McGivney Spanish Club raised over $1,500 for “The Library Project“ in Mexicali, Mexico. The Spanish Club also organized a book drive and all books were sent directly to the libraries in that area. Spanish Club representative and McG student Kylie Becker said, "The Library Project is a cause supported by Maryknoll Lay Missioners, a Catholic organization that tries to help better the lives of struggling communities in nine different countries worldwide.” The Library Project hopes to reduce violence in the families that it serves, promote literacy, and develop a love of reading by providing a community library. The library is located in a lower income neighborhood of working-class people where violence, drug addiction, and alcoholism are prevalent. This library also provides religious classes, children's books, crafts, and other projects to creat

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As the leaves begin to change color and the air turns crisp, autumn beckons many to escape their daily routines and embrace the season’s charm. A cozy fall weekend getaway can provide the perfect opportunity to unwind, reconnect with nature, and indulge in seasonal delights. This guide will walk you through the key steps to planning a memorable and cozy fall weekend retreat. 1. Choosing the Perfect Destination The first step in planning your getaway is selecting a destination that embodies the essence of fall. Consider the following options: Countryside Retreats Many picturesque locations boast stunning fall foliage, making them ideal for a cozy getaway. Areas like the Hudson Valley in New York or the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina offer breathtaking views and charming small towns to explore. Coastal Escapes While beach trips are often associated with summer, coastal areas can be surprisingly beautiful in the fall. Think of places like Cape Cod, where you can

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On this day, October 30th, we take a moment to reflect on the significant historical events that have shaped our world across various categories. One of the most impactful events in recent history occurred on October 30, 1938, when Orson Welles' radio adaptation of H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds" aired. This broadcast is often cited as one of the most famous radio hoaxes in history. Welles' production was so realistic that it caused widespread panic among listeners who believed that an actual Martian invasion was taking place. The event sparked discussions about media responsibility, public perception, and the power of radio as a medium. It serves as a reminder of how easily information can be misinterpreted and the impact of sensationalism in media. Fast forward to October 30, 1944, when the United States Navy launched the USS New Jersey, one of the most famous battleships in American naval history. Commissioned during World War II, the USS New Jersey played a critical role

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ALTON - Derrick Richardson presents Bourbon & Whiskey Tasting Fall 2024 for all the Bourbon and Whiskey enthusiasts, collectors, and connoisseurs. This event will be hosted at the Renaissance X at 401 Piasa St. in Alton, from 3 to 6 p.m. on Nov. 10, 2024, with free admissions. Cigar vendors and Food Trucks will be on site. Renaissance X has a number of indoor and outdoor TVs to watch your favorite NFL Team. "While the Bourbon & Whiskey Tasting will be on the inside, Renaissance X has several outdoor heaters, fire pits, and a fireplace to smoke your favorite cigar while watching the game and listening to the music.," said Derrick Richardson, one of the organizers of the event. "We will offer drink cocktails mixed with your favorite Woodford and Old Forester Brand. Bring a blanket if you like." Doors open from noon to 8 p.m. with plenty of free parking spaces in both private and public parking lots. The Bourbon & Whiskey Tasting will consist of the: Woodford Family: Woodford

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WOOD RIVER – B&W Heating & Cooling Inc. celebrated 75 years in business by hosting an open house at its Wood River headquarters. The company, which provides HVAC repairs and services throughout the region, recently was honored by the city of Wood River as one of the longest-operating family-owned businesses in the community. B&W was founded in Wood River in 1949 by Wesley Eberhart and Bill Dively. While Dively later left the company for a job at the refinery, Eberhart continued to grow B&W until he sold it to his son, Mark, and Mark’s wife, Elaine, in 1996. Mark Eberhart said the company’s philosophy is built around basic Christian values. This includes a commitment to treating both customers and employees fairly and being honest about everything, from pricing and equipment to problems and even the occasional mistake. “When you are fair and honest, customers are loyal and recommend you to their friends and family,” Eberhart said. “Doing this

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RIVERBEND - Halloween is creeping up on us, but it’s all treats — no tricks — this spooky season. Several parades are scheduled over the next few weeks. Check it out! ALTON: With one of the longest-running Halloween parades in the country, Alton’s 107th annual celebration will run from 7–10 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024. The parade begins downtown at the intersection of Washington Avenue and Broadway and will continue on Broadway to Piasa Street, where it will end at 9th Street. There are over 40 parade participants registered already. If you are unable to get out to view the Alton Halloween Parade in-person, keep an eye out for the live stream on Riverbender.com. BELLEVILLE: The Belleville Area Humane Society will have their annual Howloween Pet Parade from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024 . The route starts at Bennie’s Pizza Pub and travels down N. High Street, Main Street, N. Charles and E. A Street. People and

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ALTON —The Alton Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 500 block of Main Street on Tuesday evening. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the house. In response to the situation, a box alarm was activated, prompting assistance from the East Alton Fire Department. Firefighters faced challenges in controlling the blaze, particularly as it had spread to the attic, complicating their efforts. The house sustained significant damage, but it remains unclear if anyone was residing in the home at the time of the fire. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

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Edwardsville, IL — Today, Jay Keeven, candidate for State Representative is proud to announce the endorsement of Madison County Sheriff Jeff Connor. Sheriff Connor, a well-respected leader dedicated to upholding safety and accountability across Madison County, praised Keeven’s extensive background in law enforcement, commitment to public safety, and collaborative approach to public service. "Jay Keeven has spent his career serving with integrity and working to keep our families safe," said Sheriff Connor. "I know Jay will bring that same commitment to Springfield, where we need leaders focused on protecting our communities and holding public officials accountable. I am proud to endorse Jay Keeven for State Representative ." "I am honored to have the support of Sheriff Jeff Connor," said Keeven. "Sheriff Connor’s dedication to our community is unmatched, and his endorsement underscores my commitment to protecting our families and advocating for integrity i

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EDWARDSVILLE - As a senior running back and outside linebacker, Zach Daly has tried to be a leader for Metro-East Lutheran High's football squad. Zach is a BJ's Printables Male Athlete Of Month For MELHS. He played a key role in a 33-8 victory over HPHS (CO-OP). "I feel like this year, being the only senior, I have had to be a pretty good leader to the team this year," Daly said. "I also feel that just to use my abilities and to compete this year for the team is a big role for me this year, for sure." Daly is very much looking ahead to the playoffs Metro-East squad. The Knights concluded the regular season 5-4 overall and everything has been building to this point in time where the Knights could receive a playoff berth. "It's been building up since my freshman year. I think my freshman year, we had a third of the guys that we have this year, and now being a senior, we've got the team. Every year's been a build-up, and this is the year where we have been able to show all that."

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EDWARDSVILLE - Junior blocker Avery Simaytis was a key player for Metro East Lutheran High's girls' volleyball squad this season. Avery's specialty is blocking. She is a BJ's Printables Female Athlete Of Month for the Knights. Her goals for herself and the Knights this season were very much straightforward. "My personal goals were to be strong at blocking," Simaytis said. "I think I did a fine job last year, but I thought I could improve this season." Simaytis believes that the defensive part of the Knights' game was very comparable to other teams in the region and state. Simaytis viewed her main role with the team this season as a now-older player who provided guidance and leadership to her teammates and younger players. "My role on the team, last year, I was one of the youngest," Simaytis said, "and now, I'm one of the oldest. So it's definitely different. But, I tried to be to be more of a leader." She said overall, volleyball is her favorite season as an athlete.

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GRANITE CITY - Armando Hernandez scored the only goal for Granite City in the Warriors' 2-1 loss to Collinsville in the IHSA Class 3A regional semifinal on Oct. 22, 2024, at Gene Baker Field, Granite's home pitch, in a very good effort from both sides in a typical Granite City-Collinsville match where everyone left it on the field itself. For Hernandez, it was his 18th goal of the season, with one assist for 37 points, a successful campaign for him that ends his senior season, as the Warriors finished 11-10-1. In his post-match interview, a disappointed Hernandez thought he and his teammates did everything they could in the match. Hernandez is a Stillwater Senior Living Male Athlete Of The Month for the Warriors. "I felt like we did as much as we could," Hernandez said, "given the circumstances we've been in. We lost our center back (Drake Reeves to a season-ending knee injury), our other captain, and Joey (Morales, a stalwart defender who went out with an ankle injury right before

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ALTON - The Alton High football Redbirds concluded the season with two impressive wins over Mt. Vernon and O'Fallon. The Redbirds football boys are Auto Butler Male Athletes of the Month for Alton. Riley Smith, Hassani Elliott, Semaj Stampley and Andrew Williams, Cayden Richardson and Dillan Cowan each contributed points to the Redbirds effort on Friday. Elliott had 145 all-purpose yards in the game. Elliott also rushed 15 times for 129 yards, an average of 8.6 yards a carry in the contest. Williams had 39 yards in seven carries, while Kobe Taylor carried two times for 35 yards. Smith was six of 14 passing for 69 yards and two TDs in the game. Smith did an excellent job of commanding the Redbirds' offense in the game and he returns next season. The Redbirds had 225 yards rushing against the Panthers. Elijah Stueckel had 13 total tackles in the Mt. Vernon game. Mt. Vernon led the game 6-0 at the end of the first quarter and was ahead 19-13 over Alton at the half. Mt. Vernon scored

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ALTON - St. Paul’s Episcopal Church will host a presentation on exorcisms. At 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024, community members are invited to attend “Deliver Us: What Hollywood Gets Wrong about Exorcism.” Father Andrew Hook, the diocesan exorcist within the Episcopal Diocese of Springfield, will talk about his experience with exorcism and how exorcisms are represented in media. “The reality is that everyone’s heads aren’t spinning around and puking pea soup. It’s a little different from that,” explained Father Garron Daniels, the priest in charge at St. Paul’s. “Father Andy is going to be talking about some misconceptions of exorcisms, what it looks like to a lot of us in movies, and what it really isn’t.” Daniels referenced “The Exorcist” as an example of a movie where exorcism is “very theatrical.” He also noted that an actual rite of exorcism is “very rare.”

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TROY/MARYVILLE/ST. JACOB/MARINE - The Troy/Maryville/St. Jacob/Marine Chamber of Commerce interns shared a little about their experience with the Chamber. On a recent episode of “Our Daily Show!,” Kyle Mullin, Kyle Hazelwood and Sterling Crutcher took to the airwaves to tell listeners about the Chamber and their internships. Emily Gretak, the office manager, also spoke about how the Chamber has helped her and the interns grow since they started work with the board, the ambassadors, and CEO Dawn Mushill. “I’m enjoying it because I’m learning a lot and I’m getting to connect with these small businesses and learn more about what they do,” Crutcher said. Crutcher serves as a videographer, while Mullin and Hazelwood work in advertising and mass communications, respectively. The interns said they enjoy the networking opportunities they’ve experienced. “We’ve been able to meet so many different people at these different

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EAST ST. LOUIS – Linda J. Johnson, a 58-year-old resident of Waterloo, pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday to embezzling more than $135,000 from the Dupo Community Unit School District #196. The theft occurred during her employment in an administrative support role in the superintendent’s office from 2020 to 2022. Johnson was responsible for managing deposits into the district's activities account, which funds student athletics, clubs, and extracurricular activities. According to court documents, she manipulated the deposit process by preparing two sets of bank deposit slips. The first set accurately reflected the amounts of cash and checks received, while the second set only accounted for checks, allowing her to pocket the cash. U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe commented on the impact of Johnson's actions, stating, “Stealing funds from student activities directly deprives children of opportunities within their extracurriculars.” She added that despite

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY — Nicholas Williams, a 38-year-old resident of Jennings, Missouri, faces multiple charges following an alleged burglary incident at a convenience store on October 25, 2024. The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has charged Williams with Burglary Second Degree, Property Damage First Degree, and Stealing. According to a probable cause statement, Williams was recorded on video surveillance throwing a rock-like object through the front window of the convenience store located in the 8800 block of Jennings Station Road, which activated the burglar alarm. When police arrived, they noticed the back door of the store had been opened and then closed again. Upon investigation, officers discovered the door had been barricaded and forced entry into the establishment. Officers found Williams hiding in the bathroom, exhibiting injuries to his head and hand. Blood was also observed on the floor of the business. Further examination of the video footage revealed

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