Riverbender 🕸

O'FALLON - Gateway Classic Cars is hosting STL Smooth JAZZ’s first annual Evening at the Jazz Garage Concert. This inaugural event will have performances by J. White, an internationally recognized Billboard artist, and Jacob Webb, award-winning producer, bassist, pianist, and multi-instrumentalist. Jacob Webb is a multi #1 Billboard award winning producer, bassist, pianist, and multi-instrumentalist who began his performing career at the young age of fifteen. He co-founded the acclaimed The JT Project while majoring in Jazz Performance at the prestigious William Paterson University. He also produced, collaborated, and performed alongside iconic and legendary artists, then in 2018 founded Next Paradigm Records . Billboard has recognized Next Paradigm as the #4 Label in Smooth Jazz. Saxophonist J. White is an internationally recognized Billboard artist , songwriter, and producer. Known for his captivating performances and amazing, soulful sounds, J. White’s

Continue Reading

Letter To The Editor: It is my pleasure to endorse Mike Walters for the position of County Clerk for Madison County, Illinois. I have known and worked with Mike Walters for over 30 years. In his role as Madison County Board member, Mike has worked effectively on countless initiatives for the people of Madison County. He brings excellent credentials to this position, as well as years of experience as a County Board member, serving as Chairman Pro-Tem and serving on Facilities, Transportation, and Judiciary committees. The clerk's duties require filing accurate court records, overseeing the court clerk's duties, organizing voter registration, and scheduling elections. Mike understands the importance of keeping good records and of dealing with the public. He is honest, reliable, and willing to work the long hours needed for the position. I believe Mike Walters is the person best qualified to be our next County Clerk. Please join me in voting for Mike Walters for Madison County Clerk

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE — Treasurer Chris Slusser reported to Madison County officials on Thursday on the continued growth of its investments. “We are on pace for record returns on county investments,” Slusser said. “We are projecting $5.2 million in investment income this year.” Slusser presented an investment report to the Finance and Government Operations Committee showing the increase in investment income. From 2012 to 2016 the county earned an average of $826,000 annually, Slusser said. “From 2017 to 2022 we’ve averaged $3.96 million,” he said. “That’s a $16 million increase in the past five years.” Slusser said he used his 15 years of investment experience to overhaul the county’s portfolio since taking office in December 2016. “We focused on increasing income by diversifying the portfolio and actively managing the funds,” he said. In 2016, there with 85 investments in the county’s portfolio

Continue Reading

ST. LOUIS - St. Louis County Police Crimes Against Persons detectives are currently investigating a murder/suicide in the 300 block of Shepley Drive which resulted in the deaths of two teenage males. On June 11, 2022, at approximately 9:33 PM, St. Louis County police officers from the North County Precinct responded to a call for service for shots fired as well as a ShotSpotter activation in the 300 block of Shepley Drive. Responding officers located two males suffering from apparent gunshot injuries. Both were transported to area hospitals for treatment of life-threatening injuries. Both later succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced deceased. The deceased suspect has been identified as Tadarious Jackson, 19 years of age. The deceased victim has been identified as Quintez Robinson, 15 years of age. Both resided in the 100 block of Windsgate in Covington, Georgia 30016. Mr. Jackson and Mr. Robinson were cousins. The incident occurred in the rear yard of a residence

Continue Reading

CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today issued the following statement regarding the passing of former Illinois Attorney General James E. “Jim” Ryan. “Jim Ryan dedicated much of his career to public safety, first as DuPage County state’s attorney and then as Illinois Attorney General, and I strive to follow his example. Jim’s leadership as Attorney General and commitment to protecting all residents of Illinois is something that I have done my best to mirror since taking office. “After being elected Attorney General, I had the opportunity to meet with Jim. I continue to be grateful for his graciousness and advice as I prepared to enter the office he once led with such integrity. His counsel has continued to guide how I, as Attorney General, have governed the office and expanded my focus on enhancing public safety. “Jim Ryan will forever be known for his strength and dedication to service on behalf of the people of Illinois, even

Continue Reading

ALTON - The Rotary Club of Alton and Godfrey president Steve Schwartz presented the William E. Moyer Vocational Arts and Science Scholarships to two students attending Lewis & Clark Community College. This year the awards were presented to Bryce Christner and Brandon Dunsing . Lewis and Clark Community College Director of Development, Debby Edelman, introduced Brandon and Bryce, announcing they were the recipients of the William E. Moyer Vocational Arts and Science Scholarships for the 2022-2023 academic year. Bryce Christner and Brandon Dunsing are the newest recipients of the Alton Godfrey Rotary William E. Moyer Vocational Scholarship for the 2022-2023 academic year. Bryce Christner, of Alton, graduated from Alton High School in 2021. He was the Rotary Club's Student of the Month that April. Now, Bryce is working on an Associate of Applied Science degree in Welding Technology at Lewis and Clark Community College. He plans to graduate in May 2023. His goal is to enter the workforc

Continue Reading

ALTON - Abigail Hasty has been named the Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club’s 2022 Student of the Year. She joins a select few as the 25th Student of the Year. Hasty is the daughter of Jeanna and Michael Hasty. She will receive a $6,000 scholarship as recognition of her outstanding academic record and participation in school and community activities. During her four years at Alton High School, she has participated in Chamber Strings and Pit Orchestra, tutored students through Mu Alpha Theta, performed with The Symphonic Orchestra, served as President of National Honor Society, and kept at least a 4.5 GPA, which earned her a Platinum Alpha Award - the highest educational distinction offered at AHS. Hasty also represented Illinois during her work with the American Battlefield Trust’s Youth Leadership Team this past year. She volunteers monthly as a preschool teacher at Cornerstone Church and is looking forward to serving the foster care children of Madison County at a summer camp

Continue Reading

All photos may be purchased for personal use at: https://www.randymanning.com/All-Wheels-Drive-In-Car-Show-Alton-Illinois ALTON - Alton’s Annual All-Wheels Drive-In Car Show was a free event that attracted over 200 classic cars, hot rods, and motorcycles on Sunday, June 12 on 3rd, State, and Belle Streets in Alton. Trophies were awarded in thirty-seven classes plus five specialty awards. Missouri resident Dennis McBee (who showed his Ford Mustang Shelby GT 500) said, "The day was a little warm, but the show is fabulous and has been good every time we've come." Alton Main Street organized the event (along with Time Machines Unlimited Car Club). Car Show Judge Roy Edwards said, "It's a great event. The car show brings in a lot of people, and once they get here they eat, drink and have fun!". In addition to the car show, there was live music, a pin-up contest, 50-50 drawing, vendor displays, merchant sidewalk sale, and (of course) great food.

Continue Reading

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representatives Rodney Davis (IL-13) and Mike Bost (IL-12) are applauding the inclusion of an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would prevent federal funding from being used to retire Scott Air Force Base’s C-40C aircraft as long as the planes remain mission capable. Sidelining the aircraft would mean the end of the 932nd Airlift Wing’s flying mission. “Since 2007, the C-40s of the 932nd Airlift Wing at Scott Air Force Base have contributed to our Nation’s military readiness and the transportation of military and U.S. Government leaders across the globe,” said Davis. “The Air Force’s proposed divestment of this aircraft will negatively impact the Wing personnel who are stationed at Scott Air Force Base and also the Scott AFB community. I’ve been proud to work with Rep. Bost and our colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee to protect Scott AFB’s C-40 mission

Continue Reading

EVERGREEN PARK - Formally known as takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM), broken heart syndrome is a phenomenon that causes the sudden death of a person, typically following the sudden loss of a loved one. Actress Debbie Reynolds and singer Johnny Cash are two celebrities who are believed to have lost their lives due to broken heart syndrome. During the COVID-19 pandemic, broken heart syndrome deaths spiked in large part due to stress caused by sudden deaths of loved ones, financial struggles, job loss, and so on. Most recently, after the horrific mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, broken heart syndrome made headlines once again when Joe Garcia, husband of beloved fourth-grade teacher Irma Garcia, suddenly passed away in the wake of his wife’s tragic death. Despite its notable history, broken heart syndrome is still not fully understood – although it is very real. “We see it after natural disasters like earthquakes, volcanoes, and hurricanes. We see

Continue Reading

All photos may be purchased for personal use at: https://www.randymanning.com/Fishing-Fair-Pere-Marquette-Lodge GRAFTON - Children and adults enjoyed a beautiful day with a huge variety of outdoor activities once again at the annual Two Rivers Family Fishing Fair at Pere Marquette State Park near Grafton on Saturday. This was the 33rd year for the free event. Scott Isringhausen, the urban fishing coordinator for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, said the event helps connect kids and families to fun outdoor activities and is something love each year. The event is hosted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge (administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), and Pere Marquette State Park (administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources). The Fishing Fair included a huge variety of outdoor activities from a catch-and-release bluegill pond where young anglers can have their photograph taken with their catch; the popular

Continue Reading

ALTON - "Sunday in Downtown Alton is going to be a big day," says AP Cigar owner Mike Weller. In the midst of the 25th annual All-Wheels Car Show, Mike invites you to celebrate the grand opening of his second location for AP Cigar. “We would love the opportunity to invite you to the Grand Opening of AP Cigar Co. from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 12, Weller added. “In addition to all things barrel and cigar-related, we will be welcoming visitors to the 25th annual All-Wheels Car Show.” The car show is hosted on 3rd, Belle, and State Streets in downtown Alton, IL., and boasts 200+ classic cars, hot rods, and motorcycles. Live golden oldies jukebox music will begin at 2 p,m. and a Pin-Up contest will commence at 3 p.m. There is no cost for public admission. Mike Weller says “it is his dream to be able to operate both locations,” talking about his Rosewood Heights store and the new location on State Street, in historic downtown Alton. “As a cigar

Continue Reading

JERSEYVILLE / MARION - Koen Counseling & Wellness Center offers mental health counseling services via Telehealth and in-person, with offices in Jerseyville and Marion, Illinois. Owner and founder Nina Koen said she and therapist Emily Iman offer a wide range of counseling services to a wide range of clients. “ are filling a need that we saw within Illinois specifically. We see clients anywhere from little kids to older adults,” Koen said. “We take a holistic kind of approach to our therapy and kind of meet the client at where they’re at and what their needs are … whether it’s psychoeducation or psychotherapy, or if they have an extensive trauma history or traumatic event that they went through, then we can provide EMDR - which is eye movement desensitization reprocessing - for them as well.” Since Koen is licensed in the state of Illinois, Koen Counseling & Wellness Center’s services are available for all Illinois residents. Koen

Continue Reading

ST. LOUIS COUNTY - On Friday, June 10, 2022, the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office issued warrants on suspect Roy Jones, 19 years of age, of the 2100 block of Sun Valley Drive in St. Louis, Missouri 63136, and Xavier Boyd, 18 years of age, of the 6300 block of Lalite Avenue in St. Louis, Missouri 63136, for two counts of Robbery First Degree and two counts of Armed Criminal Action. Mugshots of Jones and Boyd are attached. Each are being held on $50,000 bond. Please note, charges are merely an accusation and Defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law. The probable cause statement for both defendants reads: Victim #1 (Counts 1 and 2), a U.S. Postal Service employee, reported that he was preparing to open a mailbox at the intersection of Sunswept Park Court and Springtime Lane when he was approached by a light-skinned black male displaying a handgun. The man demanded the key Victim #1 uses to open the mailbox and Victim #1 hande

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - Some of Edwardsville’s favorite restaurants are joining forces with Goshen Market vendors to celebrate the return of Burgers & Brews, an evening of handcrafted sliders, innovative sides, and local beer under the stars to benefit the Goshen Market Foundation. After a two-year, COVID hiatus, the event will once again be held on Saturday, June 25, from 6:00-10:00 pm at the Goshen Market Green in Downtown Edwardsville. Tickets for the event are $50 (pre-sale) and $55 at the door. Guests will have the choice of three hearty portions of locally-sourced sliders and accompanying market vegetable side dishes prepared by Cleveland Heath, Peel Wood Fired Pizza, Northside Dairy Haven, Global Brew, and Sugarfire BBQ. Clean Eatz will be preparing a delectable vegetarian option (that will likely please the meat lovers in attendance as well…). Dessert will be a team effort between 222 Artisan Bakery and Friedel Family Farms. Two free drinks (pints of Recess and/or Peel

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville-based litigation firm, The Gori Law Firm, recently added attorney Katie Wykoff to the firm. Wykoff joins the firm’s Medicare and liens division, to assist in resolving liens on behalf of clients. Prior to joining The Gori Law Firm, Wykoff served as prosecutor at the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office for 12 years. She specialized in felony cases involving reckless homicide and aggravated DUI counseling death/great bodily harm. “Katie will make a great addition to our team in the Medicare and liens department,” said Sara Salger, managing partner at The Gori Law Firm. “Her knowledge, experience and temperament as a prosecutor, as well as her health law training, will add to our strengths as a firm and allow us to better serve our clients in this division.” Wykoff was born and raised in Granite City, Illinois. She completed her undergraduate degree at Fontbonne University with a major in English and double minor

Continue Reading

PEORIA - The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently raised its alert level for monkeypox after more than two dozen cases were identified in the United States. The agency set its alert level at Level 2 , which comes with a recommendation to wear a mask while traveling, along with other enhanced precautions . Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus. When someone is infected, the illness presents with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and exhaustion, which then progresses to a painful rash and lesions. The illness typically lasts between two to four weeks. Despite its elevated alert level, the CDC maintains the risk for contracting monkeypox is low for the general public. OSF HealthCare infectious disease physician Dr. Douglas Kasper agrees. He says the virus spreads only after what he calls “intimate exposure” with someone who is acutely ill with the virus. “Monkeypox lesions are infective when they

Continue Reading

CHICAGO — Postmaster General Louis DeJoy recently visited Chicago to meet with local Postal Service leadership to discuss the ongoing implementation of the Postal Service’s bold and innovative 10-year plan, Delivering for America. Several area residents the 120 newly named postmasters working for the state of Illinois. Those included James Shelton of Alton, Kyarra Woods of Edwardsville, Melinda Partridge of Glen Carbon, Kasey Dowd of Gillespie, Stephani Patton of Glen Carbon, Stephanie Marable of Maryville, Patrick Streeval of White Hall, Annette Pierce of Belleville, Cleveland Williams of O'Fallon, Jennifer Carlock of Pochohontas, Andrew Sertich of Highland, and Yolonda Lovelace of Troy. DeJoy administered the Oath of Office to the new postmasters. Others nearby this area were: Michele Brow (Ramsey), Carmengiya Hall (Albers), Brian Westerheide (Columbia), Kizzie Austin (Millstadt), Gretchen Winter (New Athens), Andrew Weinman (New Baden), Mark McGeehan (Red Bud), Zachary

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE — Madison County officials continued a discussion on Thursday to lower food truck fees. The Finance Committee discussed the resolution to lower the fee for mobile food service establishments (food trucks) by $200 from $375, but it failed for lack of a motion. County Board member and Finance Chair Chris Guy of Maryville said that the Health Department Committee voted on June 3, 4-1, to lower the fee. The County Board will vote on the issue during its monthly meeting at 5 p.m., June 15. County Board member Jaime Goggin of Edwardsville and member of the finance committee said he is not in agreement with lowering the fees. “When (the County Board) set the fees they looked at the cost to the county,” Goggin said. “It actually costs the county more to inspect a food truck.” In 2018, the county established the operation of food trucks and its permit fees. Goggin said cutting the fee is going to cost the county and it should not fall on taxpayers

Continue Reading

MORO - Debra Reed, regional director of operations at Crest Healthcare Consulting , has been named a "Woman of Distinction" by McKnight’s Women of Distinction awards program, a national competition for the skilled nursing industry. Reed was also named a “Veteran VIP” - a woman with over 15 years of industry experience - by a panel of industry experts for her contributions to the field of skilled nursing. She was presented with an award at a ceremony that was held in Chicago on May 12. Reed said that her husband Scott and their two daughters - Amber and Cassie - are “so proud” of her accomplishment, and she is equally proud of her team at Crest Healthcare Consulting. “It is humbling to be recognized by McKnight’s,” Reed said. “This also honors my team, as it supports the terrific job they have all done during the pandemic.” Crest Healthcare Consulting provides consulting services to central/southern Illinois

Continue Reading