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ALTON - The Alton Knights of Columbus are once again spearheading their annual Tootsie Roll Drive, aimed at raising funds to support local organizations that assist individuals with intellectual disabilities. The drive, which is currently active, will conclude with collections at the Godfrey Schnucks store during the weekend of Oct. 18, 2024. Every year, the Alton Knights dedicate their efforts to this cause, distributing the collected funds to various local organizations. Last year, the drive successfully raised over $10,000, all of which was distributed to entities committed to providing services and support to people with intellectual disabilities. The Knights of Columbus organization is pictured presenting distribution checks from last year's drive to representatives from Challenge Unlimited, Beverly Farms, The William Bedell Achievement and Resource Center, and Special Olympics. The ongoing Tootsie Roll Drive exemplifies the Knights' commitment to their community and their dedicatio

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GRANITE CITY – Prather Kindergarten Center welcomed a special guest Thursday to celebrate International Talk Like a Pirate Day and to partake in bus safety drills. Granite City High School head football coach Steve Roustio read to students during an assembly and then joined them on a school bus to discuss bus safety rules and participate in evacuation drills. The event aimed to combine fun with education, ensuring that young students understand the importance of bus safety. The event was part of a broader initiative by Granite City School District 9 to ensure student safety through engaging and educational activities.

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ST. CHARLES CO. - Bonnie, a St. Charles County K-9 Electronic Detection Dog, and now School Resource Officer K-9, is calling it quits after eight years of catching sex offenders and human traffickers that used electronic devices to commit their crimes. The St. Charles County Police Department is celebrating Bonnie’s eight years of faithful service September 20th at 10 a.m. with a retirement ceremony, where his many accomplishments will be acknowledged and rewarded with baskets of gifts and treats from local pet supporters. The ceremony will be at the St. Charles County Police Department (101 Sheriff Dierker Ct., O’Fallon, MO). Bonnie, a 10-year-old Labrador Retriever, began her career in 2016 with an initial 5-week training in Electronic Storage Detection (ESD) with the Connecticut State Police K-9 Unit. The Connecticut State Police K-9 Unit was the first in the world to train K-9’s in detection of ESD’s. Upon Bonnie’s completion of training in April 2016,

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ROXANA – Lilli Ray, a standout athlete at Roxana High School, has been recognized as the Midwest Members Credit Union Female Athlete of the Month. Ray, who has excelled in both softball and volleyball, batted .347 this past season under the guidance of Coach Wade Stahlhut. She recorded 25 hits and 18 RBIs in 20 games, according to Max Preps. Ray's athletic prowess extends beyond the softball field. In the fall, she serves as a defensive specialist for the Roxana girls' volleyball team. Coach Stahlhut has praised her consistent performance since her freshman year, noting her hard work and dedication. "We expect the same growth in her in the 2025 season," Stahlhut said. "We are very fortunate to have her. She is extremely hard-working and has some of the same characteristics as our other girls." Ray's contributions to her teams are not limited to her offensive skills. Coach Stahlhut emphasized her defensive capabilities, highlighting her well-rounded talent. The recognition

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BELLEVILLE - The beloved Belleville Art on the Square foundation and festival has two new co-directors. The Art on the Square organization announced that Rebecca Boyer and Karl Gilpin will step into the roles previously held by Carol Bartle and Stephanie Dorris. The two new directors will see the organization through its 2025 festival on May 16–18, 2025. “It is exciting,” Boyer said. “Karl and I know there’s a lot that needs to be done, but we have a great team. They’re able and willing to help us pull this off.” Gilpin shared that Art on the Square was in a “precarious situation.” It was unclear whether the festival would happen in 2025. He encouraged Boyer to take on the director role. When she said she was too busy for the position, they agreed to come on as co-directors and collaborate to make the festival a success. “We started talking about it. I was like, well, we can’t let this thing die,” Gilpi

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ALTON - Freshman Sabrina Eccles has quickly established herself as a rising star for Marquette Catholic's Explorers cross-country team. Eccles, who has already broken the 23-minute mark for a three-mile distance, posted a time of 22:29.4 on Sept. 7, 2024, in the Granite City Invite, securing 102nd place. Eccles' performance at the Granite City Invite follows her earlier achievements this season. She placed 25th at the CM Twilight Invite on Aug. 31 with a time of 25:22.1 and clocked in at 24:53.9 on Sept. 3 in the Carlinville Early Meet. Recognized for her dedication and performance, Eccles has been named a Tucker's Automotive Repair & Tire Female Athlete of the Month for Marquette. "I really enjoy being a member of the cross country team," Eccles said. "My goals at the beginning was to beat my sister Cassidy Eccles." With her love for cross country and running "a lot," Eccles' future in the sport appears promising, particularly as she is only in her freshman year. Again, congrats

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced today that nonfarm payrolls were up +800 while the unemployment rate increased +0.1 percentage point to 5.3 percent in August, based on preliminary data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and released by IDES. The July monthly change in payrolls was revised from the preliminary report, from +12,900 to +10,300 jobs, while the revised unemployment rate was 5.2 percent, unchanged from the preliminary July unemployment rate. The August payroll jobs estimate and unemployment rate reflect activity for the week including the 12th. In August, the industry sectors with the largest over-the-month job gains included: Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (+2,300), Construction (+2,200), and Financial Activities (+1,600). The industry sectors with the largest monthly payroll job declines included: Leisure and Hospitality (-2,900), Professional and Business Services (-1,600), and Other Services

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ALTON – The City of Alton is taking bold steps to enhance pedestrian safety and improve traffic flow as part of its ongoing commitment to a safer and more walkable downtown. In late May, the city partnered with East-West Gateway Council of Governments (EWG) to host a well-attended walk audit that brought together community stakeholders to assess the pedestrian environment in downtown Alton. EWG’s support is being provided as part of a Plans to Pilots grant the city was awarded through the agency earlier this year. The feedback received during the walk audit is now serving as a vital foundation for future actions aimed at addressing safety concerns. The city has applied for the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) federal grant, a program designed to support cities in reducing traffic-related fatalities and injuries. Alton’s SS4A application outlines plans for a temporary demonstration project aimed at piloting roadway safety improvements that could have lasting impacts.

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BENTON – A district judge sentenced a Marion man to 97 months’ imprisonment for receiving and possessing child pornography. Michael D. Mitchell, 36, pleaded guilty in May to two counts of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to prosecute individuals who view and upload child sexual abuse material, and a federal prison sentence is warranted for those who contribute to the online sexual exploitation of children,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “I commend our FBI partners for their efforts to identify and investigate child predators.” According to court documents, federal law enforcement received an online tip from an internet platform for a user uploading child pornography. Agents tracked the IP address associated with the user to Mitchell’s Marion residence. Following a subsequent search of Mitchell’s phone, agents recovered eight

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EAST ST. LOUIS — In response to recent threats, law enforcement, in collaboration with the FBI, conducted a comprehensive search at East St. Louis Senior High School and Mason/Clark Middle School on Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 18, 2024. East St. Louis Superintendent Arthur Culver said the search, which involved K9 units trained to detect weapons and explosives, yielded no findings of weapons or contraband, confirming the campuses are safe. A suspect believed to be responsible for the online social media threats has been apprehended and is currently in custody, Culver said. Authorities are continuing to work closely with the school district to ensure the ongoing safety and security of students and staff. Culver expressed his gratitude for the efforts of law enforcement and the cooperation of the school community. "Once again, I commend the outstanding efforts of our law enforcement partners that have worked diligently to ensure the safety of our school communities," Culver

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EAST ALTON – Jayde Kassler, a senior at East Alton-Wood River High School, is a key to the Oilers' success in the 2024 girls volleyball season at her libero position. Kassler has been named the Midwest Members Credit Union Female Athlete of the Month for her exceptional performance in volleyball. Kassler, who has been playing volleyball since seventh grade, expressed gratitude for her parents' unwavering support. "I would like to thank my parents for always supporting me and allowing me to play club volleyball. Last winter, I played with the club RVA. My parents always pushed me to be better and drove me to far tournaments and invested so much of their own time into me," Kassler said. Under the guidance of her Oilers girls volleyball coach, Bethany Billingsley, Kassler has achieved significant milestones in her volleyball career. She secured a starting spot on the varsity team as a sophomore and has been awarded Most Digs and Rookie of the Year multiple times. Additionally,

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MARYVILLE – Quick action by Maryville and Glen Carbon firefighters on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, prevented potential fire problems at Barry Wilson Funeral Home. Firefighters responded to a call at 6:58 a.m. Tuesday and contained smoke in a single room, thanks to their swift efforts. Maryville Fire Chief Doug Dankenbring praised the firefighters' rapid response. "It was quick recognition and quick mitigation," he said. "Everything fell into place. We arrived within four minutes of the dispatch." The incident began when a construction worker, who had entered the building, noticed an electrical burning smell. The worker identified the affected room, closed the door to contain the smoke, evacuated the building, and called 911. The first fire engine arrived within four minutes, guided by the construction worker and law enforcement to the affected room. The fire chief also praised the construction worker for his efforts in helping clear the building. Firefighters discovered that an

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ST. LOUIS — A group of area jet ski enthusiasts, loosely known as “The Jet Ski Mafia,” embarked on their annual ride from island 522 to the Arch recently. The event, organized by Victor Leinger, saw 11 jet skis and one small boat traversing over 60 miles round trip through the Mississippi River's industrial areas, a route seldom frequented by pleasure craft. Participants, including Krystal Kientzel and Danno Demanno, shown in photo above, navigated through two locks and the shipping canal to reach their destination. Tim Crawford, a rider from Glen Carbon, noted that most participants hail from St. Charles. "We stopped on a few sand bars to relax and enjoy the beautiful day," Crawford said. "It was a chance to cement our friendships as fellow river rats." After completing the journey, the group relaxed at the Alton Marina, reflecting on the unique experience. Crawford emphasized that these rides, which occur multiple times each boating season, are meticulously planned

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski’s Clear Communication for Veterans Claims Act unanimously passed in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation will make it easier for veterans to access the benefits they’ve earned by requiring the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) to eliminate overcomplicated language in written communications with veterans. Budzinski introduced the legislation with Congressman John Duarte (R-CA-13) and Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost (R-IL-12). WATCH: Budzinski Discusses VA Correspondence Bill WATCH: Budzinski Discusses VA Correspondence Bill “Every day, my office hears from veterans who are struggling to access the benefits they’ve earned because of confusing processes and overcomplicated documents,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “I’m proud that my legislation with Congressman John Duarte has passed the House with broad bipartisan support

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ST. LOUIS - Starting today, and continuing through Tuesday, Oct. 1, Schnucks customers will be able to contribute to the United Way at checkout simply by rounding up their grocery purchases to the nearest dollar. Those customers who use self-checkouts and wish to donate may choose a $1, $3 or $5 “Scan and Give” option. Schnucks Rewards members also have the opportunity to donate their rewards points to United Way as part of the Donate Your Rewards program. Schnucks has a decades-long history of supporting United Way, and during last year’s company campaign, teammates, customers and the company donated more than $2.3 million - including more than $110,000 from the Round Up at the Register. “Our customers’ generous round ups enable United Way to provide stable funding to a network of high-performing nonprofits that address a breadth of needs throughout the year to serve immediate basic needs and provide long-term support,” said Schnucks Chairman and

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ALTON - Marquette Catholic High School will be hosting its annual Homecoming Block Party on Saturday, September 21, in front of the school at 219 E. 4th Street. "This is a great event to bring together our alumni, parents, past parents, and everyone in the Marquette Catholic family,” said Maggie Kohl, Marquette’s new Director of Alumni Relations. “While we will draw the $50,000 Mega Raffle and free tuition tickets, you don’t need to buy Mega Raffle tickets to attend. We just want everyone in the Marquette community to come have fun and celebrate all things Marquette Catholic with their friends,” Kohl said. “A $500 attendance prize will be drawn for those who attend and are present at the time of the drawing at approximately 9:45 pm.” Mega Raffle tickets may be purchased at the event or online at www.marquettecatholic.org/megaraffle. The event will feature dueling pianos by the country's top dueling pianos group, Howl at the Moon, from

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SAINT LOUIS - Unhoused or at-risk veterans can receive resources, assistance with their VA benefits, and more at the upcoming Stand Up/Stand Down for Homeless Veterans event. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, at Soldiers Memorial in St. Louis, veterans can access a variety of resources and services. There will be a separate area for women veterans only. “I was just totally blown away by the amount of stuff they can provide,” said Kelly Vandersand, a veteran with the St. Louis Service Women’s Post 404 American Legion. During the event, there will be experts onsite to help veterans understand their VA benefits. The St. Louis Food Bank will provide a food truck with nonperishable food, and H.E.R.O.E.S Care will offer hygiene packs and haircuts. Some basic health services will be available. Massage therapists and a reiki expert are also expected to be there, among other resources. Organizers also have 50 free bus passes available for veterans in

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ALTON — The anticipation is building at Marquette Catholic High School as students prepare for the upcoming coronation ceremony. The event, set to take place at 10 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, in the school gymnasium, will see the crowning of the new homecoming king and queen. The candidates for queen, in the photo above, in the front row from left to right, are Grace Stoverink, Lily Covert, Maya Stephan, Kennedy Eveans, Skye Heru, Kel’C Robinson, and Chloe Steele. Representing the candidates for king, standing in the back row from left to right, are Rodger Zawodniak, Drew Thomeczek, Jude Keller, Quinn Copeland, Keevan Carter, Alex McCloud, and Will Fahnestock. This annual event is a highlight of the school year, drawing students, faculty, and family members together to celebrate school spirit and student achievements. The coronation ceremony is traditionally held in the gymnasium, a venue that has hosted countless memorable moments for the school community. The

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ALTON - There’s a new nonprofit in the Riverbend region, and they’re asking for help to make sure local kids have a great holiday season. Riverbend Rescue, founded by Adam Marburger, has been helping families buy Christmas gifts for about five years. But this is the first year that the organization is spreading the word about their mission and asking for donations. Their “Keys for Kids” fundraiser is planned for Nov. 16, 2024, and Marburger encourages people to donate. “As an entrepreneur, it’s an entrepreneur’s due diligence, their obligation, to give back to the community,” Marburger said. “I want to be vocal to other entrepreneurs: Let’s spend some money. Literally. Let’s not be greedy. Let’s pull the freaking wallet out of your back pocket. And whether it’s my nonprofit or any nonprofit or going down to the food shelter or doing whatever it is, you are to contribute to your local community.”

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From family-friendly festivals to unique workshops and live music, the upcoming events promise a diverse and exciting array of activities for everyone. For a full listing of events and to plan your outings, visit https://www.riverbender.com/events/. If you want to make sure even more of the region is aware of your event email cj@riverbender.com and explore our range of Event Promotion Services! Featured Discover the excitement of the Basket Auction Online hosted by the Women's Fellowship at Evangelical United Church of Christ. From September 14 to September 21, more than 100 themed baskets will be available for bidding. These baskets cover a wide range of interests including kids' activities, home decor, holiday items, sports, books, and much more. Perfect for gift-giving or personal use, this auction offers something for everyone. Auction proceeds will benefit church and community projects. Don't miss out on this opportunity to support a great cause while finding unique items!

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