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SPRINGFIELD - The public voting period for the Illinois state flag redesign contest has kicked off and will run through Feb. 14, 2025. Illinoisans can choose to vote for one of the Illinois Flag Commission’s Top 10 new designs, or one of three former flag designs, including the current one. “Now is the time to make your voice heard and I encourage folks to join the process by voting for the flag that they feel best represents our great state,” said Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, whose office will conduct the public vote. “The public feedback received during this period will help guide the General Assembly’s final decision on the future of our state’s flag later this year.” Public voting is available at www.ilsos.gov/stateflag . Participating Illinoisans can vote for: One of the Illinois Flag Commission’s Top 10 flag designs Retaining the existing state flag Or reinstating Illinois’ 1918 centennial flag

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CHICAGO - Today Governor JB Pritzker announced the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) will receive $43 million in federal funding for the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency’s (CREATE) 65th & Harlem Avenue rail project. The project will create an overpass for travel over Belt Railway of Chicago’s (BRC) tracks via 65th street each day, improving efficiency for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians in Chicago and neighboring Bedford Park, Summit, and Garfield Ridge, as well as allowing faster travel for freight trains heading into and out of BRC’s Clearing yard. “This sort of smart, people-focused infrastructure investment exemplifies the best in what federal/state funding partnerships can do—present a solution that will make the daily commutes of Chicagoans and their neighbors and the daily movement of freight more efficient, making everyone’s day a little easier,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I’m grateful

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SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Nutrient Research and Education Council (NREC) met in December and seated three new board members. They replace Cindy Skrukrud, Al Grosboll and Jeff Kirwan who are cycling off the NREC board of directors. Board members are appointed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture Director, Jerry Costello. Two environment organizations are represented among the newly seated members. Katie Garvey joins the board representing The Environmental Law & Policy Center. Garvey is a staff attorney located in the organization’s Chicago office and focuses on nutrient reduction strategies. Christina Favilla joins the board representing the Illinois Chapter of the Sierra Club. Favilla is based out of Sierra Club’s Alton, IL office, where she serves as the Three Rivers Project Co-Coordinator – concentrating on the confluence of the Missouri, Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. Also seated at the December meeting was Brent Pollard who represents Illinois

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ALTON — Senior Services Plus is excited to invite local seniors to an engaging and fun event, Speed Connections , on Friday, February 7th from 2-4 PM in the School House Grill. This will be Senior Services Plus' third time hosting the event. The event is designed specifically for adults ages 55 and older, offering a unique opportunity to meet new people and form lasting connections in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. For just $10 per ticket, participants will enjoy a series of timed conversations with fellow attendees, providing the chance to share stories, make new friends, and perhaps even spark a romantic connection. The event will take place in a casual, welcoming environment, where participants will rotate through timed intervals, giving everyone the opportunity to mingle and connect. Whether you’re looking for friendship or just want to meet new faces in the community, Speed Connections promises a fun and exciting experience. Spaces are limited, so don't

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EDWARDSVILLE — A local community is rallying to support Kate Baumgartner, the owner of Sacred Grounds Coffee, as she faces unexpected medical bills due to a difficult diagnosis. The fundraising effort , organized by Connie Fish, aims to alleviate the financial burden on Baumgartner, who has been a vital part of the Edwardsville community. The initiative comes after Baumgartner encountered significant medical expenses that have arisen despite her health insurance. According to Fish, the bills stem from a complex medical situation, which has left Baumgartner with higher costs than if she were uninsured. "These medical bills have not been born out of lack of health insurance or irresponsibility, but rather from tricky diagnosis, and gross shortfall in coverage for tests and treatments," Fish stated. Baumgartner is known for her commitment to the community, having hosted local art shows, live music nights, and contributed to various charity events and school fundraisers. "She

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CHICAGO - ? Today, Governor JB Pritzker announced Illinois as the winner of $114 million in competitive federal grant funding to support new electric vehicle charging stations across Illinois, including the Chicagoland area, Springfield, Metro East, and Quad Cities. The federal funds total $114 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation to build 14 truck charging hubs, adding to the statewide charging infrastructure. Illinois received the largest award, the second largest being $55 million. Governor Pritzker also announced $39 million in state funding to build 1,476 charging stations at 242 locations in Illinois, helping make access to charging more accessible across the state. The federal funding was awarded to two specific programs: $100 million for Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s project entitled Equitable Future-Ready Electrification Infrastructure for Green Heavy-duty Transportation (E-FREIGHT) and $14 million for the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus’

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ALTON - New felonies filed against a Wood River man include home invasion and more after breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s house and injuring the victim during a “physical confrontation.” Andrew R. Mercer, 28, of Wood River, was charged with two counts of home invasion (both Class X felonies), aggravated battery (a Class 3 felony) and criminal trespass to a residence (a Class 4 felony). On Jan. 4, 2025, Mercer allegedly entered an Alton residence without authority, knowing it to be occupied. He also reportedly used a knife to cut the victim’s finger. A petition was filed to deny Mercer’s pretrial release, stating “a physical confrontation ensued” after Mercer kicked in his ex-girlfriend’s front door. “Victim reported that they recently broke up and he entered her residence by force and went to the kitchen, obtaining a knife,” the petition states. “He then pushed her, insisting that she had lied to him about thei

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has approved four conditions to be added to the list of medical issues that may be treated with medical cannabis. The four newly approved conditions are endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and female orgasmic disorder. The approval by IDPH Director, Dr. Sameer Vohra, comes following a thorough review by the Medical Cannabis Advisory Board (MCAB) and IDPH staff. Under Illinois law, the Director reviews petition requests to add conditions to the approved list. The Director considers available scientific analysis and medical literature to determine whether medical cannabis would be an appropriate treatment for each condition. “Medical cannabis has been shown to offer an effective means of relief from a variety of debilitating medical conditions and symptoms,” said Vohra. “IDPH reviews petitions carefully using expert opinion and the most up to date evidence to make decisions that best

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BETHALTO - Bethalto Church of God has partnered with Refuge 4 Kids to provide a training on childhood trauma. On Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, the community is invited to Bethalto Church of God at 800 E. Bethalto Boulevard for a daylong training session with a focus on faith-based communities. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., attendees will learn about complex trauma, the effects that trauma can have on early childhood development, and how church leaders can support kids with trauma histories. “Bethalto Church of God is one of those churches that really has a heart for kids that are coming from hard places,” said Erin Bickle. “The more we can empower church leaders and people working with kids with the truth of how trauma truly impacts these children and how we can best care for them, it’s just going to strengthen those children.” Bickle, one of the trainers through Refuge, explained that Refuge provides support, counseling and community education about childhood

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HOLIDAY SHORES — Ashley and Connor Maedge, a newlywed couple from Holiday Shores, exchanged vows on Dec. 14, 2024, at Pere Marquette in Grafton in a ceremony that emphasized giving back to the community. Rather than traditional wedding gifts, they asked guests to bring toys for children that were donated to The Salvation Army in Alton. The couple, both veterans — Ashley served in the Navy and Connor in the Army — met after their military service while taking an introductory law class at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. They now reside in Madison County, where Ashley works as a data warehouse analyst for U.S. Bank, and Connor serves as a police officer in Fairview Heights. Ashley and Connor are definite Difference Makers in their community. Cassy Grey, of the Salvation Army in Alton, expressed her admiration for the couple's philanthropic gesture. “In all my years of officership, I have never experienced anything quite like this,” Grey said.

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ALTON – The Rotary Club of the Riverbend Alton/Godfrey recently awarded over $3,400 to local agencies that support children as part of 2024 grant funding from the local Rotary District 6460. Caritas Family Solutions, Oasis Women’s Center, Refuge and the Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto were the recipients, each submitting requests for financial support of special projects: Caritas Family Solutions : Providing comfort items, such as snacks, technology and sensory items, to youth being transferred from foster families to birth family visits, court dates, health evaluations, etc. Oasis Women’s Center : Providing an opportunity for the children staying at Oasis to shop for proper and safe footwear and new clothing. Refuge : Purchasing outdoor benches and supplies as part of art therapy to help foster collaboration and a sense of belonging. Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto : Securing supplies for healthy lifestyle education, focusing on good nutrition and healthy meal

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ST. LOUIS - Additional snowfall created hazardous travel conditions across the region on Friday, January 10, 2025, as meteorologists warned commuters to exercise caution during the morning and evening commute drives. Matt Pfalka, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in St. Louis, stated that snow began to overspread the area early Friday morning, with the potential for pockets of moderate snow to reduce visibility to less than one mile. Above is a gallery of photos from around the region on Friday from Edwardsville to Alton and Godfrey. Driving conditions earlier in the day were not easy for motorists because of the added snow. Pfalka issued a weather warning to remind residents to stay informed about weather conditions to prepare for potentially difficult travel as the winter weather unfolds with the evening commute ahead. While much of the snowfall has been light, Pfalka highlighted that the light, powdery nature of the snow combined with cold surfaces facilitated

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ALTON - Three women from Alton have been charged with mob action after allegedly battering a customer and staff at a bar in downtown Alton. The following individuals, each from Alton, face a Class 4 felony count of mob action: Precious N. Steward, 27 Thelma D. E. Jordan, 35 Honesty A. Butler, 25 Charging documents filed against all three individuals on Jan. 8, 2025 state that on Nov. 16, 2024, the three acted together to batter “a female customer and bar staff” at The Firehouse bar in Alton. The Alton Police Department presented separate but related cases against all three individuals, who were each granted pretrial release from custody. The issuance of charges is based solely upon probable cause and is not an indication of guilt. All subjects charged with criminal offenses are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Mark Matson, CEO of Matson Money , appeared on Our Daily Show! on Riverbender.com to discuss wealth building and management strategies to kick off the new year. Described as an “investment advisor company,” Matson Money aims to help its clients make their own “American Dream” a reality through financial stability. Matson said “equities,” or stock investments, are some of the “greatest wealth-creation” tools available not just in the United States, but around the world. “Equities are the greatest wealth tool known to mankind,” Matson said. “Historically, large stocks have averaged about 10% every year, so your money doubles every 7.2 years. Small stocks have been in the ballpark of 12%, small-value stocks in the ballpark of 7.2%. So historically, equities - owning stocks - not only in the United States but globally, is one way people can fulfill their American Dream.” Despite turbulent economic condition

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ALTON - At 12:41 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, Alton Police Department officers responded to 1205 Florence St. in reference to what was described as "a male possibly waving a hunting rifle around in the front yard of this residence." Alton Police Jarrett Ford said: "Upon arrival, a male subject known to the officers from previous contacts was observed. The male had what is commonly known as a book and release warrant via the SAFE-T Act, meaning he would not be detained in custody after completing the booking process. "The male walked to the front door of the residence and threw what was determined to be a pellet gun onto the front yard of the residence. The male immediately returned inside the residence and shut the door. "Attempts were made to make contact with the male but no contact was made. Due to the totality of the circumstances known to the officers, and the pellet gun being secured, no new criminal charges, the warrant not being detainable, and the male refusing to contact

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EDWARDSVILLE – Edwardsville City Administrator Kevin Head announced Friday, January 10, 2025, that he will be leaving his position with the city. After serving Edwardsville the last six years, Mr. Head is excited to spend more time with his wife, children and grandkids. Mr. and Mrs. Head look forward to staying involved in the community and traveling the nation and the world. Mayor Art Risavy reluctantly accepted the resignation, noting that Mr. Head brought a wealth of experience and wisdom as he has led the city in striking growth and development and also provided direction amid critical challenges. “The City of Edwardsville is extremely grateful for the leadership he demonstrated daily. He had the answers we needed and solutions that worked,” Mayor Risavy said. “He had a way of unifying us so we could move the City in a direction that’s beneficial to those who live and work here.” Mr. Head, often referred to as Colonel, became the city administrator

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GRAFTON - Raging Rivers WaterPark will host the largest snowball fight in the Riverbend region. At 12 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, the community is invited to Raging Rivers at 100 Palisades Parkway in Grafton for a huge "Snowball Showdown." Attendees will be asked to sign waivers before the fight begins, and then the fun will commence in the Raging Rivers parking lot. “We like to have fun with the community,” said Park Manager Jeremy Hayes. “We hope to get people to engage. It’s more about engagement than anything. It's just getting people out, meeting new people, mingling. If we can create two or three new friendships in a season, we feel like we've accomplished something.” The idea for the snowball fight started as a joke between staff members. They teased that they wanted to throw snowballs at Raging Rivers management. As the conversation continued, staff members decided it would be fun to have a snowball fight with the community. Raging

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BETHALTO – Civic Memorial High School principal, Mr. Justin Newell, is pleased to announce that 15 students from the Civic Memorial’s graduating class of 2025 have been designated as Illinois State Scholars. The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC), the state’s college access and financial aid agency, confers this important recognition of academic achievement to exceptional Illinois high school students annually. This year, more than 16,500 honorees join the other outstanding students who have been honored since the designation was first introduced in 1958. Principal Newell stated, "Our Illinois State Scholars exemplify the spirit of being ALL IN through their dedication, hard work, and commitment to academic excellence. Their achievements inspire us all and demonstrate what it means to strive for greatness at Civic Memorial High School." The following students have been named Illinois State Scholars: John Bowker, Ryne Breyer, Abigail Clowers, Gabrielle

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ALTON - Debbie “Sissy” Paynic, co-owner of Bubby and Sissy’s in Alton, leaves behind a legacy of love. Debbie died on Jan. 3, 2025, following a seven-year battle with ovarian cancer. Her brother, Michael “Bubby” Paynic, remembers her as an active, welcoming presence at the bar and beyond. “When people would come in the bar, she would always say, ‘Hey, I'm Sissy,’” Michael said. “She was always very welcoming to people and really fun, just always had a smile on her face, always liked to have fun.” Debbie enjoyed waterskiing and traveling. She was a diehard Cardinals fan and worked as an usher at Busch Stadium. She loved ball, even going so far as to finish a chemo treatment and still go to work because she enjoyed it so much. She graduated from Roxana High School and played softball and field hockey at SIUE. She was also involved in the Piasa Indians Drill Team and the Belleville Black Knights Drum & Bugle Corps.

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EAST ST. LOUIS – Lakeatra E. White, a 32-year-old postal carrier from Granite City, was sentenced to 32 months in federal prison for stealing credit cards from the mail and using them for personal expenses. The sentencing took place in a Southern Illinois district court after White pleaded guilty in September 2024 to charges including theft of mail by a postal employee, access device fraud, and aggravated identity theft. In addition to her prison sentence, White will serve three years of supervised release and has been ordered to pay $15,209.11 in restitution. The U.S. Attorney's Office emphasized the breach of trust inherent in her actions. “Mail carriers are entrusted public servants, and postal workers who steal from their customers choose to break that trust,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. She noted that the office will continue to work with the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General to hold accountable those who commit fraud. White, who worke

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