Riverbender 🕸

ROXANA – Phillips 66 has opened two scholarships for application – the Phillips 66 Community Advisory Panel Scholarship and the Phillips 66 Community Scholarship. Both scholarship programs are open to high school seniors in the Riverbend region. Applications are due March 1. The Phillips 66 Community Scholarship is renewable for up to $5,500 a year for a four-year institution or $1,500 per year for a community college/technical school. Recipients are also guaranteed an internship interview (four-year institution) or a full-time position (craft/trade school) if they meet the minimum GPA requirements and are interested in a relevant field. The Community Scholarship program awards 66 scholarships to high school seniors who are members of Boys & Girls Club programs in Phillips 66 communities. “We are excited to work with the Boys & Girls Club of Alton and the Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto on this program,” says Melissa Erker, Director of Government & Community

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ROXANA - Rusty Wheat is a one-man “chain gang” , but because of him, more people are talking about ways to keep the roads clean. Wheat’s environmental advocacy work has been a big push toward litter cleanup in the area. In the past year, Madison County introduced an Adopt-a-Highway program and allocated $200,000 towards environmental clean-up efforts. Madison County and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) have also installed signs that warn of penalties for littering, and the Roxana Police Department has already issued two citations following the signs’ installation. “I will do anything and everything I can,” Wheat said. “I get out there and pick up trash on the hottest days. When it’s snowing out there, I’ll be out there picking up trash so people can see me and say, ‘Man, that guy’s an idiot. What’s he doing?’ But it draws attention to the issue.” Madison County’s

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ALTON - The Alton Committee of the Whole preliminarily approved amendments to the City Code regarding the zoning districts cannabis businesses are allowed to open/operate in, as well as minor changes to cannabis license renewal and parking space requirements. Dan Lytle spoke on behalf of Subsero Alton Ops during the meeting’s Public Comment portion to ask when the public will be able to review and comment on the proposed ordinance. “I represent Subsero Alton Ops, and they are an entity that’s been involved with a piece of real estate, that already owns a location 1400 E. Broadway in Alton. It’s previously housed an adult cannabis dispensary,” he said. “With respect to item five, I just have a question - in terms of timing, what is the expected timeline at which time any proposed text amendment might be disseminated for public review and comment?” City Attorney Tonya Genovese responded that while they could not have a “back

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GODFREY – Beverly Farm Foundation has announced that it will be collaborating with Boys & Girls Club of Alton to provide a new Therapeutic Equine Program Supporting Youth. The program will be offered through the Equestrian Center at Beverly Farm located on the nonprofit’s 200-acre campus in Godfrey. “At Beverly Farm Foundation, we value collaboration as a cornerstone of our success and are thrilled to announce our new partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Alton,” said Beverly Farm Foundation CEO Crystal Officer. ”We are excited about the opportunities that this partnership will bring and look forward to welcoming all program participants. Our wonderful team at the equestrian center is looking forward to helping more children enjoy the benefits of interacting with and being in the company of horses.” “We’re thrilled to be teaming up with Beverly Farm Foundation for this new program,” said Al Womack, Jr., Executive Director

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ST. LOUIS – The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis has launched the Ameren All In Scholarship Fund, a $1,180,000, five-year commitment to provide 25 students annually with scholarship grants up to $10,000 per student per year for up to 10 semesters, or five years. Applications for this opportunity are now open and applicants can visit sfstl.org/ameren-all-in-scholarship to apply or learn more. The Ameren All In Scholarship is designed to award critical “last dollar” funding to fill the gap between total cost of education and the financial resources available to students from family, school, state, and federal sources. The Ameren All In Scholarship will foster educational attainment and financial strength for members of the community often priced out of post-secondary opportunities. “Education is among our key AmerenCares focus areas, and this new partnership with The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis stands as an example of that ongoing commitment," said Gwe

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EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced Monday that a Troy man has pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in connection with the fire-related death of a woman in Troy. Michael E. Sloan Jr., 41, of Troy, pleaded guilty to the charge during a hearing Monday before Associate Judge Neil Schroeder in Circuit Court in Madison County. Sloan faces up to 50 years in prison. His sentencing hearing is set for Feb. 26. “We intend to seek the full 50-year term,” Haine said. “This was an especially heinous and cruel crime.” Sloan admitted that he set fire to the home of 69-year-old Susanne Tomlinson in the 500 block of Wood Thrush in Troy on Sept. 22, 2022, knowing that she was inside. The fire resulted in the death of Tomlinson. Assistant State’s Attorney Lauren Maricle, in outlining the case to the court, said evidence and testimony would show that Sloan poured gasoline in Tomlinson’s duplex and doused her with gasoline.

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ALTON – February is recognized as American Heart Month – a time when the nation spotlights heart disease, the No. 1 killer of Americans. Since heart disease continues to be the greatest health threat to Americans and is still the leading cause of death worldwide, OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center (1 St. Anthony’s Way, Alton) is hosting an upcoming Healthy Workplace Lunch & Learn program providing important steps to achieving a healthier heart. This lunch & learn program, titled “You Can’t Beat A Healthy Heart,” will be held on Wednesday, February 7, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. in the hospital’s Perpetual Help Center and led by Laurinda Harjai, DNP, FNP, RN-BC, nurse practitioner specializing in cardiology. The program is free and lunch will be provided, but registration is required. Registration can be completed by visiting: https://AltonHealthyHearts.eventbrite.com . In most cases, heart disease is preventable when people adopt

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EDWARDSVILLE - Layne Logan, a junior forward with the Edwardsville High girls basketball team, has stepped up in the last few games and made a positive contribution to the Tigers during the team's five-game winning streak that's helping the team to turn its season around. On Jan 4, 2024, Logan scored only two points, but made many positive plays in a 58-36 home win over Collinsville, and two days later, on Jan. 6, 2024, she was part of an Edwardsville 59-53 overtime win over Wentzville, Mo., Holt at the St. Joseph's Academy Shootout in Frontenac, Mo., which extended the Tigers' winning streak to five and made their record now 8-9. Going into the game against the Indians, Logan has been averaging 1.3 points and 0.8 rebounds per game, with two assists and two steals, but has come off the bench to make many positive contributions to the Tigers. "I'm just glad our team is finally picking it up," Logan said during a postgame interview following the win over the Kahoks. "I think we're hitting

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ALTON - The Alton High School girls' tennis squad once again showed their service to the community with actions before the holidays. The Alton High tennis girls have been bell ringers for the Salvation Army Christmas campaign for many years and they performed that task again this year. Members delivered bags of pet food and tennis balls to the 5 A’s organization. The group also sent care packages to Alton High alumni in the military. The Alton High girls' tennis squad members are Difference Makers in the Riverbend area for their community service efforts. Tennis captain Lauren Massey led the packages to service people efforts with Finley Haynes. Another tennis captain, Jenna Fassler, has a brother, Connor, in the military and a care package was sent to him. The tennis girls joined the Social Studies Club in their efforts. Some of the girls are also members of that club. “We are proud of the Redbird alumni in the military,” head girls tennis coach Jesse Macias

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CARROLLTON - Carrollton High School is getting ready to host their annual Career Fair in the high school’s gymnasium on Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024. With the goal of showcasing the various career opportunities that can be found in the local area, the school is inviting businesses to send representatives to the Career Fair to inform students of the opportunities available. “Our goals are to show off the different careers that can be found in our community or a short drive away, as well as for those of you who are looking for potential employees to have a chance to interact with and recruit our students,” the school said in a press release. “This event also allows our students to work on much needed social skills by having the chance to interact with you. “Even in a small community such as ours, we are lucky to have a vast diversity of career choices for our students should they decide that they want to remain a part of our community upon completing

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in announcing funding that will bring 60 clean school buses to communities throughout Central and Southern Illinois. The funding comes through the agency’s first Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has brought millions of Americans safer roads, bridges and neighborhood crosswalks. Now, it’s delivering better buses for our students and our environment,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “I’m excited to announce that the Environmental Protection Agency has selected applicants in Cahokia Heights, Decatur and East St. Louis and Granite City as recipients of their Clean School Bus Program, bringing essential funding to upgrade and replace 60 buses across Central and Southern Illinois. This investment is only the start of our work to reduce air pollution, save money for our school districts and

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ILLINOIS - State Representative Amy Elik helped pass several bipartisan bills in 2023, and she has plans to do more in 2024. Elik is a Republican who represents the 111th District in Illinois with a homebase in Alton. From Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) cards to sexual misconduct in schools, Elik has multiple bills in the works that she hopes to pass this year after she returns to Springfield on Jan. 16, 2024. “I’m really proud, especially of the bills that I passed in 2023. I have a whole host of additional bills for 2024 that I’m working on,” Elik said. “I know that I'm looking forward to going back. I’m excited to work on the bills and things that I’ve been working on these last few months sort of behind the scenes…Honestly, my bills come from constituents that bring issues to me and I go, ‘Well, that’s not right. We can fix that.’” Elik is currently working on a bill that aims to lower

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ALTON/EDWARDSVILLE - Another winter storm is on track to hit the St. Louis region on Tuesday morning and the forecast appears changeable depending on the area. Lydia Jaja, a St. Louis National Weather Service meteorologist, said some snow/rainfall will arrive in the Alton region around 5 to 6 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024, and continue through the night. "The snow or rainfall will continue through the night," Jaja said. "Right now we are forecasting a high-end total of about an inch for St. Louis and not expecting a lot of accumulation. The highest totals will be further north of the Alton area. Jerseyville could receive anywhere from a trace to 2 inches. It is right in the gradient." Later in the week, temps will drop and be in the teens, she said. Jaja said there could be some additional snowfall coming Friday, but right now it is uncertain whether it will be rain or snow. The rain and snow that starts tonight will likely continue until Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, afternoon. Friday

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JERSEYVILLE - Two people have been charged with stealing a trailer and a John Deere Compact Track Loader from Midwest Tractor Sales in Jerseyville, according to recent Jersey County court filings. Cody A. Jones, 36, of Oquawka, Ill. and Shaelee L. Harkey, 21, of Viola, Ill. were both charged with theft of property valued between $100,000 to $500,000. Court documents state that on or about Dec. 19, 2023, Jones and Harkey stole property from Midwest Tractor sales, specifically a John Deere 325G Compact Track Loader and a “T-Man” trailer with forks. Both Jones and Harkey were charged with Class 1 felonies. Court documents indicate they are currently being held without pretrial release conditions in the custody of the Jersey County Sheriff until their initial court appearance. 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

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JERSEYVILLE - The Jersey County Business Association recently announced the next installment of their “Business After Hours” series with a “New Year’s Resolution” theme is coming up from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024. The event is open to the public and allows visitors to learn more about local businesses. The “New Year’s Resolution” theme will also help attendees start the New Year off right by learning exercise tips, good cleaning habits, and more. “Learn from some of Jerseyville's best cleaners and organizers about easy cleaning habits, and meet some of our local gyms to get you fired up about excerising in 2024,” the JCBA announced . “Enjoy some refreshments and meet some new people! We hope you see you there and starting off 2024 with a bang!” The upcoming Business After Hours will be held at Royal Banks of Jerseyville, located at 117 S. State St. Participating businesses include th

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MURPHYSBORO - U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that his 2024 re-election campaign has been endorsed by former senior advisor to President Donald J. Trump, U.S. Representative Max Miller (R-Ohio). “Mike Bost is a proven leader with the experience and commitment to move the America First agenda forward. He is working hard to keep our country safe, defend our constitutional rights, and ensure our veterans receive the best care possible,” said Miller. “I am happy to endorse my friend, Mike Bost, for Congress.” “After serving in the Marine Corps Reserve, Max Miller spent four years fighting to Make America Great Again as Director of Presidential Advance and as a senior advisor to President Trump,” said Bost. “I am very grateful to have Max’s support and friendship; and I am excited to continue working with him in Congress to advance the America First Agenda.” Miller’s endorsement adds to the growing list

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ST. LOUIS - 2023 marked continued growth at St. Louis Downtown Airport. The airport, located in St. Clair County, Illinois, is credited with helping generate more than $422 million in economic impact for the bi-state region. This is due, in large part, to the completion of new infrastructure, increased flight operations and continued expansion by largest tenant. Momentum is expected to continue into 2024 as business aviation steadily rebounds and tenants expand their employee rosters, adding to the more than 1,500 full-time and part-time jobs already supported by St. Louis Downtown Airport tenants and operations. The airport is the third busiest general aviation airport in Illinois and features a variety of long-term existing tenants who are contributing to the growth and are committed to expanding their operations. In August 2023, St. Louis Downtown Airport completed construction of a new $5.4 million ground engine run-up and compass calibration pad to help support its tenants’

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SPRINGFIELD – With the first blast of winter potentially arriving next week, the Illinois Department of Transportation is reminding the public to visit and bookmark GettingAroundIllinois.com for continually updated information on road conditions. Weather can change quickly in Illinois, so whether you’re driving a short distance or several miles, GettingAroundIllinois.com is an essential resource to keep you updated 24/7/365 on road conditions throughout the state all winter long. “While IDOT is ready for whatever winter has in store, preparation and planning always are your best protection in keeping you and your family safe during snow-and-ice season,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “Winter weather can impact travel at any time, with severe events requiring several days before roads return to being completely clear of snow and ice. This winter, please make it a habit to check GettingAroundIllinois.com before you drive anywhere

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CHICAGO – As Illinois’ overall respiratory illness level has increased from Moderate to High in the past week and more than half the counties in the state are at an elevated level for COVID-19 hospitalizations, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is reminding the public to stay up-to-date on all respiratory illness vaccines and to stay home and seek treatment if you are sick. This health guidance is being offered as seasonal respiratory viruses - including COVID-19, flu and RSV - are circulating widely and the CDC is reporting that 61 Illinois counties are at either High or Medium level for COVID-19 hospital admissions, according to the CDC’s national COVID Data Tracker , as of the week ending December 23. A total of 18 counties in Illinois are listed at High level for COVID-19 hospitalizations (compared to 14 counties in the week prior) and 43 are at a Medium level in the latest week (compared to 50 counties in the week prior), including Cook,

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EDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville High junior boys basketball player Iose Epenesa scored six points, and contributed to a great defensive effort that held the top three players on Collinsville to a combined 31 points as the Tigers dealt the Kahoks their first loss of the season 42-38 on Jan. 5 at Lucco-Jackson Gym. Edwardsville broke a three-game losing skid with the win and also broke Collinsville's 17-game winning streak to start the season, with the Kahoks tied for number two in the state with Homewood-Flossmoor in this week's Illinois Associated Press Class 4A poll, behind top-ranked Chicago Curie. For the season, Epenesa's made a significant contribution to the team, averaging 6.5 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, adding on 18 assists, four steals and two blocked shots as the Tigers improved to 11-6 with the win. Epenesa is a Johnston Law Firm Male Athlete of the Month for the Tigers. "I'm feeling really excited, and I don't even know what to say," Epenesa said in his postgame interview

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