Riverbender 🕸

EDWARDSVILLE — The Madison County Sheriff's Office recently held a retirement ceremony for Captain Brian Koberna, marking the conclusion of a distinguished 20-year career in law enforcement. Koberna began his tenure at the sheriff's office in 2003 as a deputy in the Patrol Division before transitioning to the Investigations Division in 2006. During his time in investigations, Koberna held various roles, including positions in Auto Theft, the Digital Forensic Unit, and as Chief Deputy Commander of the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis. He also served as Chief of Investigations, where he commanded numerous homicide investigations on the Illinois side of the region. Sheriff Jeff Connor praised Koberna's contributions to law enforcement, noting his extensive experience and leadership within the department. "He rose through the ranks and spent a lot of his career in investigations, including our cyber crime unit," Connor said. "He was a valuable member with an untold amoun

Continue Reading

O'FALLON — The O'Fallon Police Department, along with local emergency medical services, firefighters, and registered nurses from St. Elizabeth's Emergency Room, have collaborated to produce a calendar that aims to support Metro East Every Survivor Counts. The initiative, which showcases the first responders of the community, features photographs taken with their pets during various photo shoots. The Metro East Every Survivor Counts organization has a mission to address multifaceted forms of oppression and end sexual violence by empowering survivors through person-first services and community engagement. The calendar project is designed to raise funds for the organization, which is dedicated to providing support for cancer survivors in the region. The photographs not only highlight the commitment of these first responders, but also aim to foster community spirit and awareness for the cause. The calendar is available for purchase, with proceeds going directly to support

Continue Reading

TROY — The Troy Police Department has announced it will enhance its traffic safety initiatives following the award of a Federal Fiscal Year 2025 Sustained Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant. The grant aims to bolster high-visibility enforcement strategies that seek to reduce traffic crashes and prevent injuries. The grant period will run from Oct. 1, 2024, to Sept. 30, 2025. During this time, the Troy Police Department plans to implement additional enforcement measures that will complement both mandatory and optional campaign enforcement dates, particularly during periods identified as some of the most dangerous for road travel. In a statement, the Troy Police Department expressed its commitment to road safety, saying, "We're pleased to receive this grant to step up our road safety efforts with the goal of saving lives. Our mission is to make travel safer through directed, proactive patrols and to stop, cite, and arrest those who choose to violate traffic laws." The enforcemen

Continue Reading

GRANITE CITY – Granite City Community Unit School District No. 9 Board Treasurer Linda Knogl and Board Member Lori Silva attended the Illinois Association of School Boards, Southwestern Division Meeting on September 25 in Sparta, Ill. They met with Senator Terri Bryant-Murphysboro, Senator Erica Harriss-Edwardsville and Representative Amy Elik-Alton during the meeting. Discussions included unfunded mandates which place a burden of requirements on districts without providing financial assistance to carry out those mandates. To date, there have been 731 mandates thrust upon districts since 1982. Other topics included: teacher shortages, evidence based funding, and student teacher stipends. Knogl and Silva were encouraged by this opportunity to meet and hear their insights and concerns. Hopefully, further legislative meetings such as these will bring us closer and benefit our students and community. For more information about Granite City School District #9, visit

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County voters have made their voices heard, re-electing Donald Trump as President and supporting a full Republican sweep of all countywide offices. This historic election marks a clear call for policies focused on economic revitalization, national security, and individual freedoms. “The people of Madison County have spoken, endorsing a renewed vision for America under President Trump’s leadership,” said Ray Wesley, Chairman of the Madison County Republican Central Committee. “With his commitment to lowering taxes, strengthening our economy, achieving energy independence, and protecting American interests globally, President Trump’s policies resonate with our community’s priorities.” In addition to President Trump’s victory, Madison County Republicans have achieved significant wins locally, capturing every countywide office and securing key victories in county board races. “Our county candidates an

Continue Reading

EAST ST. LOUIS - Two East St. Louis residents have been charged in separate cases with possessing handguns modified into fully-automatic "machine guns." Jerell C. Brown, 24, of East St. Louis, was charged on Oct. 21, 2024 with unlawful use of weapons - possession of a machine gun (a Class X felony), reckless discharge of a firearm (a Class 4 felony) and aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer (a Class 4 felony). On June 5, 2024, Brown allegedly possessed a Glock 22 .40 caliber handgun which was “modified with a switch to make the weapon automatically fire more than one shot without manually reloading” and located in a motor vehicle. He was additionally charged with firing the gun down an alleyway in the 400 block of Broadway in Venice. A petition to deny Brown’s pretrial release states Venice Police officers responded to a report of shots fired adjacent to “a public thoroughfare in Venice.” “Officers located multiple 40

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Police conducted a successful Halloween enforcement campaign, resulting in 2 impaired driving arrests. Additionally, Edwardsville officers arrested 1 driver for driving on a suspended license, issued 4 speeding citations, 2 citations for illegal transportation of alcohol, and 4 other citations. Law enforcement agencies across Illinois participated in this statewide effort to save lives by removing impaired drivers from the roads and ensuring more drivers and passengers were properly buckled up. The fall enforcement campaign, which ran from Oct. 18 through Nov. 1, was part of the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" and "Click It or Ticket" initiatives. Special attention was given to late-night enforcement, as data shows that this is when the highest number of impaired driving incidents and unbuckled fatalities occur. This enforcement effort was made possible through federal highway safety funds provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Continue Reading

As the leaves turn shades of amber and gold, and the air becomes crisp, it’s time to embrace the beauty of fall and prepare your home for Thanksgiving. This season is an opportunity to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the bounty of the harvest and the spirit of gratitude. In this article, we will explore various fall home decor ideas that will enhance your living space for Thanksgiving, making your home a festive haven for family and friends. Embrace Natural Elements 1. Incorporate Seasonal Foliage One of the simplest and most effective ways to welcome fall into your home is by incorporating seasonal foliage. Use garlands made of faux or real leaves to drape around doorways, railings, or mantels. Opt for a mix of colors—deep reds, oranges, and yellows—to create a vibrant display. Example: A beautiful centerpiece can be crafted using a shallow bowl filled with pinecones, acorns, and colorful leaves. This arrangement not only brings the outdoors

Continue Reading

November 7th holds a treasure trove of historical significance, with events that have shaped nations, inspired movements, and changed the course of history. In the realm of international politics, November 7, 1917, also known as the October Revolution in the Julian calendar, saw the Bolsheviks seize power in Russia. This event not only led to the establishment of a communist government but also set the stage for the Russian Civil War and the eventual rise of the Soviet Union. The revolution was a catalyst for change around the globe, influencing countless movements and ideologies that sought to challenge existing power structures. Fast forward to November 7, 2000, when the U.S. presidential election became one of the most contentious in American history. The race between George W. Bush and Al Gore culminated in a decision that would not only affect the future of the country but also highlight the complexities of the electoral process. After a protracted legal battle over the

Continue Reading

The start of a new relationship can be a very exciting chapter in our lives. New relationships can bring new opportunities to learn about yourself and how to be a good communicator and reliable partner. While the honeymoon phase can feel electrifying, if your new partner seems too good to be true, you could be experiencing love bombing. What is love bombing? It’s a form of emotional and psychological manipulation that involves your romantic partner quickly escalating the relationship to create an intense emotional bond in an effort to manipulate you into a relationship with them. While many people may be capable of love bombing, it is most commonly exhibited by people with anxious or insecure attachment behaviors and can be done intentionally or unintentionally. It is mostly recognized in romantic relationships, however it can be experienced in platonic or familial relationships, too and tends to occur in three phases: Idealization phase: During this phase, your partner

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - The historic Wildey Theater in Edwardsville will host three international films this weekend as part of the 33rd annual St. Louis International Film Festival (SLIFF). As the only Illinois venue on the SLIFF schedule, the event will not only give locals a taste of international culture and cinema, but will also draw visitors to see what the Edwardsville community and surrounding Metro East region have to offer. On Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, the Wildey will show four Oscar-qualifying documentary short films starting at 1 p.m., followed by two full-length features at 3 and 5 p.m. The four short documentary films include “ Broken Flight ,” “ The Last Observers ,” “ Chouteau: Scenes from Below ,” and “ Capturing the Carbon .” More information about each short film is available on the SLIFF website , where you can also watch trailers and purchase tickets to see all four films for just $5. A 3 p.m. showing of

Continue Reading

COTTAGE HILLS — Richard F. Moody, a Marine who served in the Vietnam War, was honored posthumously for his sacrifice after being killed in action on December 21, 1965. Moody, who held the rank of Private, is remembered by his community as a very proud man. Moody’s service was marked by his commitment to his country, culminating in the receipt of a Purple Heart for his bravery. Moody's legacy is carried on in Cottage Hills, where residents reflect on the impact of his sacrifice. Brenda M. Copeland, a submitter of Moody's information to the Veteran's Salute, emphasized the pride he felt in serving his nation. The community continues to recognize and honor the contributions of veterans like Moody, ensuring that their sacrifices are not forgotten. Click here to submit a Veteran's Salute to Riverbender.com.

Continue Reading

LEBANON — Maryville's Destiny Johnson, a senior at McKendree University, has been recognized as the 2024-2025 Student Laureate of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois, an honor awarded for exceptional leadership, service, and academic excellence. Johnson, a Collinsville High School graduate, received the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award during a ceremony held on Saturday, Oct. 26, in Springfield, Ill. The Lincoln Academy of Illinois grants this prestigious award to one outstanding senior from each college and university across the state. Johnson, majoring in chemistry and mathematics, is also a member of McKendree's Honors Program. Her academic achievements include winning the American Chemical Society Outstanding Junior Chemistry Award in 2023 and the GLVC Brother James Gaffney Distinguished Scholar Award in 2022. Recommenders highlight Johnson's remarkable competence and maturity. Dr. Vince Dunlap, her advisor and an associate professor of chemistry at McKendree, noted her

Continue Reading

SPRINGFIELD — Nikki Budzinski announced her reelection to Congress this morning, securing a significant victory in Illinois’ 13th Congressional District. Budzinski's performance in the 2024 election showed improvement across all seven counties she represents, suggesting increased support compared to her initial election in 2022. In her statement, Budzinski expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her by the voters of Central and Southern Illinois. “Two years ago, voters in Central and Southern Illinois placed their faith in me to go to Congress and work across the aisle to get things done for our communities," she said. "I’m so honored that my constituents have seen my record of results and given me the opportunity to keep fighting for them.” Budzinski emphasized her commitment to addressing the needs of working families, lowering costs, and securing the southern border. She also highlighted her intention to defend democracy and protect fundamental

Continue Reading

GLEN CARBON – Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois (GSofSI) has wrapped up the annual Fall Product Program for 2024. Girls in Southern Illinois sold over $470,000 in tasty treats, magazines, and other fun products. Let’s give a shout out to the following girls for being Fall Product Top Sellers for their respective areas: Alvina Farley from the Alton/Godfrey/Wood River/Roxana Service Unit sold $1,387 in product Paislee Travis from the Granite City/Madison/Venice Service Unit sold $1,324 in product Katelynn Norman from the Bethalto Service Unit sold $2,176 in product Kinsley Godier from the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Service Unit sold $1,039 in product Rylee Barnett from the Troy/St. Jacob Service Unit sold $846 in product Olivia Jackson from the Highland Service Unit sold $611 in product Margeaux Williams from the Collinsville Service Unit sold $711 in product “The Fall Product Program is an excellent way for girls to raise funds as they start their new Girl

Continue Reading

ALTON - The SIU School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) will be hosting the seventh annual Veterans Dental Care Day on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024. Patient care, which includes exams, x-rays, cleanings, fillings and extractions, will be provided in the SIU SDM Main Clinic on the Alton Campus. The appointment schedule is 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., with patient arrival times at 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Patients should pre-register for free appointments at 618-474-7012. To best manage patient care, patients will be seen by appointment only; no walk-ins will be accepted. The SIU School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) students, residents, faculty and staff manage approximately 30,000 patient visits each year at its patient clinics in Alton, East St. Louis and Edwardsville. These patient care experiences provide students and residents the training they need to graduate and become highly skilled dentists and specialists. The School of Dental Medicine is a vital oral health care provider for dental patient

Continue Reading

ALTON - The Sierra Club Monthly Speakers Series continues on November 12, 2024 6:30 p.m. with "What's Happening to Frog Species in the St. Louis-Metro Area?" Mike Dawson, Educator for the St. Louis Zoo's "Frog Watch Program" will focus on three frog species once abundant in the St. Louis area, and relevant concerns for the possible absence or decrease of these species. Come join us and find out what Mike is learning about his work and indications of a larger environmental issue. This is a live presentation at the Old Bakery Beer Co., 400 Landmarks Blvd., Alton, Ill. Come early and bring dinner and drinks into the venue prior to the 6:30 p.m. program. For questions, contact Chris Krusa, Sierra Club Program Chair at 410-490-5024.

Continue Reading

MURPHYSBORO - U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today released the following statement regarding President Trump's historic victory: “Donald J. Trump has completed a political comeback for the ages. After being written off by the Beltway pundits and pollsters, he connected with the American people like no other candidate could and earned the first non-consecutive presidential terms in over 130 years. "The American people are desperate for fearless leadership, secure borders, a strong economy, and an end to the woke nonsense. I’m confident that President-Elect Donald Trump will deliver on all fronts. Congratulations to President-Elect Trump and Vice President-Elect Vance; I look forward to working together to Make America Great Again!”

Continue Reading

RIVERBEND REGION - With all eyes on the Presidential Election results for 2024, most of the discussion will center on states and electoral college votes - but what about our local counties here in the Riverbend? Here’s how your county voted in the Presidential race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris: Madison County voters supported Trump more narrowly than other counties in the Riverbend, though the race still wasn’t exactly close. Trump earned 55% of Madison County votes, totaling 73,723 votes cast. Harris, meanwhile, earned 55,971 votes to earn 42% of the total. Independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. earned 1.74% with 2,319 total votes recorded. In St. Clair County, a neck-and-neck Presidential race saw Harris lead Trump by just 164 votes. With both candidates earning 48% of the total, Harris’s 47,242 total votes just barely put her ahead of Trump’s 47,078 votes. Meanwhile, Kennedy’s 1,857 St. Clair County voters earned him just 1% of the

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE – The Edwardsville Municipal Band will once again spread a little joy to the world during its annual winter holiday concert, and this year it will take place at the historic Wildey Theatre in downtown Edwardsville. The free concert is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Saturday, December 7. “It’s such a historic venue; the sound and the history are just amazing,” said Steve Wehling, a musician with the band and the chairman of the Municipal Band Board. “It’s a neat experience to play and hear a concert at the Wildey. We’re really excited to be back there this year.” The concert is a winter tradition for the Municipal Band, and will once again feature student musicians from area schools joining the band onstage for a few holiday selections. The Municipal Band and the Wildey Theatre also are teaming up with the Edwardsville Police Department to benefit Illinois Special Olympics, a cause long supported by the police. Visitors to the Wildey

Continue Reading