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GODFREY - Lily and Taylor Freer were honored as the latest “Good Neighbors” at the Godfrey Village Board meeting on Tuesday for their efforts raising funds and spirits in the community with their long-held Christmas In July event. The annual fundraiser has become a staple in the community since it began 15 years ago, when the Freers started with a lemonade stand, sloppy Joes, and a dream to help those in need. Taylor was only 5 years old at the time, white Lily was only 2. Just as the event itself has grown over the years, so have the Freers - and so has the amount of money they’ve been able to raise for the Community Christmas initiative, which supports families in need during the holiday season. “That first year when they started … they raised about $2,500 for the Community Christmas,” Economic Development Director Jim Mager said. “Every year, that has grown and grown and grown.” The 2024 installment of the sisters’

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BETHALTO - Students at Parkside Elementary School in Bethalto enjoyed a visit from a dairy cow. On Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024, the Mobile Dairy Classroom stopped by Parkside Elementary to teach kids about dairy farms. In addition to the 30-minute presentation, students could view a live dairy cow and milking demonstration. “It gives kids an experience that most of them are unlikely to ever get anywhere else,” explained Parkside Principal Aaron Kilpatrick. “We look to provide as many real-world learning opportunities as possible. Part of that learning is being able to make those real-world connections.” This is the second year that the Mobile Dairy Classroom has stopped by Parkside Elementary. The initiative is sponsored by Southwest Dairy Farmers and Southland Dairy Farmers. Christy Halley, a third grade teacher at Parkside, organized the visit. Kilpatrick said that many of the third grade teachers also participate in an adopt-a-calf program. This program

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Glen Carbon Chapter of Habitat for Humanity celebrated a significant milestone with a “Ground Blessing” ceremony for its 10th home on Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, on Hill Lane in Edwardsville. Volunteers and board members joined the future homeowner's family and their pastor to pray for a safe construction process on the affordable home, which will be located in a welcoming community. “This milestone of the 10th home for our chapter is a tribute to all the volunteers that have helped the organization over the last two decades and highlights the generosity of this community," said Rich Hampton, the Edwardsville Glen Carbon Chapter President. “More importantly, ten worthy families selected have had the opportunity to live in a safe, new home so they can focus on their educations, careers, and paying their blessings forward.” Among those present were friends and relatives supporting Shontay Ford and her two young cousins, ages

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JERSEYVILLE - The latest felony filings from Jersey County show two separate cases of domestic battery, both filed against men from Kane. Elias L.D. Fraley, 32, of Kane, was charged with aggravated domestic battery and unlawful possession of methamphetamine. Fraley allegedly strangled the victim, a household member, on Aug. 24, 2024. He was also found in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine, according to court documents. Fraley faces a Class 2 felony for the battery charge and a Class 3 felony for meth possession. Jersey County Sheriff’s Office records indicate Fraley has been granted pretrial release from custody. In a separate domestic battery case, Alan K. Simpson, 41, of Kane, was also charged with one count of aggravated domestic battery. Court documents state Simpson “intentionally strangled” the victim on Aug. 24, 2024. Simpson faces a Class 2 felony and has also been released from custody, according to records from the Jersey County

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Discover a wide array of exciting events ranging from festive markets and live music performances to engaging community activities and cultural celebrations. Whether you're looking to enjoy local flavors, participate in family-friendly activities, or immerse yourself in live entertainment, there's something for everyone. For a full listing of upcoming events, visit Riverbender Events and plan your next adventure. 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 Alton Expo 2024 Join us at the Alton Amphitheater for the 2024 Alton Expo! Enjoy fair food, carnival rides, live entertainment, games, and more. Admission is FREE. The event kicks off on Thursday, September 5, with Polly and the Pocket performing at 7:00pm. On Friday, September 6, Maxa performs at 5:00pm, followed by Dirty Muggs at 8:00pm. The festivities continue on Saturday, September 7, with the Alton Catfish

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JERSEYVILLE - Two individuals have been charged with burglary in separate cases at two Jersey County residences, resulting in felony charges against both. Anthony K. Driver, 33, of Kane, was charged with residential burglary and theft (both Class 1 felonies), as well as possession of a stolen vehicle (a Class 2 felony). Driver allegedly entered a Brighton residence on June 16, 2024, and stole “various coins” with a combined value of over $10,000, as well as a “dune buggy” owned by the same victim. Court documents indicate he has since been granted pretrial release. Danny J. Copeland, 47, of Jerseyville, was charged with one count of burglary without causing damage. On Aug. 27, 2024, Copeland reportedly entered a residence on Sunderland Road in Jerseyville without authority and with the intent to commit a theft. Copeland faces a Class 3 felony for the burglary charge and was ordered remanded to jail until his initial court appearance. He currently remains

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TROY - Madison County Coroner Stephen P. Nonn has identified Patricia A. Corey, 65, of Troy, Illinois, as the victim of a fatal traffic accident that occurred early Wednesday morning, Sept. 4, 2024. The coroner said Corey sustained fatal injuries following a crash on Interstate 55 at the 19-mile marker. According to preliminary witness statements, Nonn said Corey was driving a 2000 Honda Civic westbound in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 70. She then took an exit ramp leading to Interstate 55 against the flow of traffic. The ramp connected to the northbound lanes of Interstate 55, but Corey was traveling southbound. During an attempt to perform a U-turn in the lanes of traffic, her vehicle was struck by a 2012 Honda Civic, causing severe damage to the driver's side. Subsequently, a 2020 Honda Civic collided with the rear passenger side of Corey’s vehicle. The drivers of the other vehicles involved in the crash sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Madison County Coroner’s

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O'FALLON, Ill. — The O'Fallon Community Consolidated School District #90 on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024, expressed gratitude to the O'Fallon Fire Rescue for their swift response to an incident at Carriel Junior High School. The incident occurred on Wednesday during an HVAC repair when smoke from a soldering tool was pulled into the school building at 451 N. 7 Hills Road, O'Fallon, IL. The O'Fallon Fire Rescue team quickly arrived at the scene, identified the source of the smoke, and utilized a large blower to clear the building. The incident took place on an Early Release Wednesday, allowing students to spend time outdoors while the situation was being resolved. In a statement, the school district thanked the fire rescue team for their prompt action, ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff. The weather provided an opportunity for students to remain outside as a precautionary measure.

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GODFREY - Village Dispensary in Godfrey has deals every day this week. The dispensary always offers discounts; Alli, a representative with the dispensary, calls it “a stoner’s dream.” There are specials every day of the week, and customers can walk out with products for less than $20. “A lot of the times at the end of the transaction, people will be like, ‘Oh my gosh, I thought I was going to spend more,’” Alli said. “And then they want to add on more and they weren’t expecting to be able to. The difference is clear at our store.” The dispensary has daily specials, starting with “Roll Into the Week Monday” — a deal on pre-rolls — and “Tasty Tuesday” edible deals. “Waxy Wednesday” offers sales on concentrates and vapes. “Thirsty Thursday” promises 30% off select cannabis-infused drinks, and “Flower Friday” offers flower for the low price of $25.

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COLLINSVILLE – Anderson Healthcare has announced the groundbreaking of a new medical office for Anderson Medical Group, set to significantly expand primary care services in the Collinsville community. The new facility, located adjacent to Anderson Healthcare’s existing urgent care at 1103 Beltline Road in Collinsville, aims to enhance access to quality healthcare for local residents. "Anderson Healthcare remains committed to ensuring that every patient has access to the best possible care, close to home," said Anderson Healthcare President and CEO, Mike Marshall. "The expansion of primary care services is a crucial step in achieving this goal, providing residents with more convenient options for managing their health." The medical office, designed and built by The Korte Company, is expected to be completed by Spring 2025. The 6,200-square-foot building will cost approximately $3.5 million and will initially house five providers, with the potential for additional providers

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SAINT LOUIS - The Missouri History Museum will resume its Twilight Thursdays concert series beginning this week. On Sept. 5, 12 and 26, 2024, community members are invited to the North Plaza at Forest Park for a free concert from 6–8 p.m. Each night features a different style of music, and there will be food trucks onsite with food and drinks available for purchase. The museum is open until 7 p.m. and attendees are encouraged to visit their exhibits before the concert or during intermission. “I think it’s really important to have a space where the community can gather,” said Lindsay Newton, one of the Twilight Thursdays organizers. “We see people of all ages, families, everybody comes out. You can enjoy the museum exhibits that are open late on Thursday evenings, and it’s just a space to kind of unwind from the week before the weekend gets started.” On Sept. 5, 2024, Gospel Night is produced by Dr. Monica Butler and will feature musi

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ALTON - In response to recent media reports suggesting an increase in crime and police calls for service in Alton under Mayor David Goins’ administration, a thorough inquiry was conducted to clarify the facts. The Alton Police Department has released data showing that overall crime in the city has not increased during Mayor Goins' term, contrary to what some reports have suggested. The inquiry focused on eight major crime categories: murder, sexual assault, arson, robbery, burglary, theft, motor vehicle theft, and assaults. The data, covering Mayor Goins' administration from 2021 to 2023, reveals that most crime categories have either decreased or remained consistent when compared to the previous administration. Notably, robberies, burglaries, and thefts have all seen a decline. While motor vehicle theft has experienced a slight increase, other serious crimes such as murder, sexual assault, assault, and arson have remained steady. Regarding police calls for service, the data

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EDWARDSVILLE - A dazzling, unique display of theatrical performances are lined up for Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s 13th Xfest from Monday -Thursday, Sept. 9-12, 2024. Xfest is a five-day festival in September featuring alternative theatre and dance that brings to campus an array of performing artists, who are nationally and internationally renowned, as well as regional emerging artists, according to Xfest Artistic Director Chuck Harper, professor of performance in the SIUE Department of Theater and Dance. “The artists present original works and lead workshops, master classes and seminars for department majors and minors,” said Harper. “Community members are welcome to join us for all performances and for the post-show open talks.” Opening the festival will be “Get Wet! with Deenie Nast,” presented by Ten Directions. The play, which will be at 7 p.m. at the Metcalf Theater on campus, was created and will be performed b

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GLEN CARBON - State Representative Amy Elik (R-Alton) joined forces with the Illinois Attorney General’s Office at Meridian Village this week for a seminar focused on equipping seniors with tools to fight fraud. Fraud expert Marsha Griffin from the Attorney General’s office gave a presentation highlighting ways seniors are being targeted and how to be prepared. “Fraud schemes are becoming more and more realistic and serious every day. Seniors are targeted using complex tactics and are at constant risk of falling victim to fraud,” said Rep. Elik. “It’s important to be aware of the ways that these scammers are coming after you, and to know what to do if you’ve become victim to one of their elaborate schemes.” Rep. Elik shared these five tips that are important to know: Recognizing Suspicious Activities: It’s important to recognize common warning signs of fraud, which often include unexpected contact via phone or email, promises

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ALTON - On the most recent episode of “You’re Beautiful” with Brian Trust, TJ Callahan shared his faith journey and encouraged people to accept Christ into their hearts. Callahan, who plays drums at Crossroads Community Church in Brighton and serves as the mayor of South Roxana, recently started posting videos on Facebook wherein he talks about the Bible and shares verses with his Facebook friends. He believes God is working through him, and he is eager to communicate his faith to the community. “Jesus carried a cross for all of our sins, right? And now I’m going to get emotional, because it’s a fact,” Callahan said. “I get challenged — ‘How do you know there’s a God?’ Well, that’s where faith comes in. ‘No, tell me, how do you know there’s a God?’ Well, I’m going to accept Him into my heart as Lord and Savior because it says that in the Bible, you have got to be born again.

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ALTON — The Alton Little Theater (ALT) is set to open its 91st season with the family comedy "Making God Laugh," which will run for seven performances from September 20 through September 29, including a second Saturday matinee on Sept. 28 at 2 p.m. The play's title is derived from the adage, "People make plans, and God laughs," encapsulating the unpredictable nature of life. Kristi Doering, who has previously acted in "The Miracle Worker" and directed a Studio Series show, will be joining as the Season Director. This season also features a new initiative by Doering and Executive Director Lee Cox, who have arranged for the show to raffle off holiday dinners for entire families. Playwright Sean Grennan, who has local connections in St. Louis, previously debuted "Beer for Breakfast" at ALT last season. The theater has long aspired to produce "Making God Laugh," but faced challenges in aging adult characters and depicting four holiday gatherings within a two-hour timeframe. Doering

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MASCOUTAH - MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) is pleased to announce the launch of the Hidden Disabilities (HD) Sunflower program at the airport. The global initiative is aimed at helping identify passengers who wish to discreetly alert staff that they may need some extra time or assistance due to a hidden disability. As part of the program, BLV passengers who would like to take advantage of the program offerings but don’t already have an HD Sunflower program identifier in their possession can request a complimentary green sunflower lanyard, wristband, tag or pin at the airline ticket counter to signal to BLV staff and TSA and boarding agents that they have a hidden disability and require additional support. Hidden disabilities can include physical, mental or neurological conditions that limit or challenge a person’s movements, senses or activities but are not immediately apparent to others. These can be temporary, situational or permanent and can include visual and

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Environmental Commission is branching out with a program to honor the trees that are among the oldest and most notable in the City and to simultaneously raise awareness about the importance of preserving them. The Heritage Tree program is an effort to encourage the conservation of established trees, recognize some distinctive examples and to educate about the essential role trees play in a community. Residents and others who know of a tree in Edwardsville that might qualify for heritage tree status are encouraged to submit nominations for the program. “With the help of the commission, I created a program that will help recognize and value the importance of our established tree canopy while honoring the heritage trees that add history and texture to the fabric of our community,” Ward 1 Alderman Chris Farrar said. “Edwardsville is the third oldest city in Illinois and a major goal of mine is to preserve as much as possible the character

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MADISON COUNTY — The Madison County Sheriff's Office today asks the community for help identifying a person of interest in a case. The individual’s photographs have been released, and authorities are urging anyone with information about his identity or current whereabouts to come forward. The Sheriff's Office announced that the person in question is connected to an ongoing investigation. However, specific details about the investigation were not disclosed. The request for public assistance was made through an official statement issued on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. "We are asking for the public’s help in identifying the subject in the attached photographs," the Madison County Sheriff's Office said in a statement. "If you have any information regarding his identity or his current whereabouts, please contact the Investigations Division at (618) 692-6087." The photographs of the individual have been circulated widely as part of the effort to gather information. Authorities

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MARYVILLE - The American Cancer Society Farm to Table Metro East Presented by MESOLAW.COM (Sponsored by MRHFM), “The Culinary Event to Save Lives,” is set to happen on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024 from 5:30–8:30 p.m. at Bella Vista Winery in Maryville, Ill. The American Cancer Society Farm to Table Metro East presented by MESOLAW.COM (sponsored by MRHFM) is in its ninth year and has raised over $600,000 to fund the mission of the American Cancer Society. The event is a social tasting experience that explores local, seasonal dishes from Metro East establishments and features live music from Corey Evitts and interactive opportunities such as a golf put challenge, wine toss, silent auction and more to fund the mission, bringing community members together for a common cause. Restaurant partners for the 2024 event include Bella Milano, 1933 House of Bourbon, Bella Vista Winery, Moussalli’s Prime, Doc’s Smokehouse, 1929 Pizza & Wine, Boarding House Bistro,

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