Riverbender 🕸

JERSEYVILLE - Jerseyville native Byron Beiermann is returning to his hometown as a country star’s “right-hand man.” Beiermann plays bass guitar alongside Matt Jordan, who will be headlining Jerseyville’s Rock the Block concert on Aug. 22, 2025. He looks forward to coming home and sharing his career with the community that raised him. “It’s a pretty full-circle moment,” Beiermann said. “When I grew up there, there weren't really any concerts going on that I can remember. I started playing music because of my dad. I probably started in middle school, and just watching him play with friends around town, in different bars or whatever, and then now here I am, later in life, playing a show in Jerseyville myself. It’s kind of cool.” Rock the Block is scheduled from 7–10 p.m. on Aug. 22 at the corner of Washington and Arch Streets in Jerseyville. Cash Goetten will open for Jordan. Beiermann noted this is another “small

Continue Reading

CLINTON COUNTY — Authorities took a suspect into custody on Aug. 11, 2025, in connection with two video recording devices found in portable bathrooms at the St. Rose Church Picnic held earlier this month, Clinton County Sheriff Dan Travous announced. Officials from St. Rose contacted Clinton County Dispatch on Aug. 9, 2025, after discovering the devices on the north side of the school gymnasium during the event. The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division began an investigation into what Sheriff Travous described as a “gross violation of privacy.” “As of late Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, a subject was taken into custody and placed on felony hold,” Travous said. He explained that the announcement was delayed to prevent the suspect from fleeing the area. “I am confident we have the person responsible in custody, and thus, releasing the statement.” Travous emphasized that the investigation remains active and that only limited information

Continue Reading

BETHALTO – Bethalto residents on Monday raised safety concerns and questioned village officials amid ongoing water discoloration. Resident Shaun Flatt was among four residents who spoke on the subject during the public comment portion of this week’s Village Board meeting. Flatt said when other communities have struggled with water discoloration, they provided clean drinking water to their residents, and asked if Bethalto would do the same. “We’re paying for clean water, we’re not getting it, now we’re having to buy water on top of that,” Flatt said. “Will Bethalto provide clean water for the community to drink?” Mayor Gary Bost said they will not, but emphasized the village’s water is safe to drink as efforts are ongoing. “We’re moving forward, things are getting better, and while this is discolored and not sightly, it’s not unsafe,” Bost said. “We’re drinking it, we drink it, we drink

Continue Reading

HARDIN - The annual Calhoun County Fair is coming up soon, and organizers can’t wait to celebrate the Calhoun community. The fair runs from Sept. 4–7, 2025, in Hardin. With a queen pageant, a parade, a demolition derby, a carnival and plenty more scheduled, the fair promises to be another fun weekend for the community to enjoy. “Our county is great,” said Brianna Sibley, one of the organizers. “We’re just a big, huge community. We’re all one big family. So it’s nice just to get together and celebrate each other.” The fair kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 4, with a concert featuring Nashville headliner Jake Maurer and an opening performance by Cash Goetten. This will be followed by the Illinois Farm Pullers Truck Pull and the Jr. Miss Calhoun Pageant at 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 5. From 12–4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, it’s Ag/Family Day at the fair, with plenty of free activities for kids and families to enjoy. Bounce

Continue Reading

O’FALLON, Ill. — The O’Fallon Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying the driver of a silver Ford Fusion involved in a recent collision with a bicyclist. The accident occurred at approximately 6:57 p.m. on July 29, 2025, at the intersection of West State Street and South Lincoln Avenue in O'Fallon. According to police, the vehicle involved was a silver Ford Fusion with an unknown Illinois temporary registration. The driver was described as a white female with blonde hair featuring a pink stripe on the left side. Authorities are requesting that anyone who witnessed the accident or has information about the driver contact Officer Dan Hesselbacher at 618-624-4545 or via email at dhesselbacher@ofallon.org . The O’Fallon Police Department expressed appreciation for any assistance provided in this matter.

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - Senior wide receiver Devyon Hill-Lomax is expected to be the top target for quarterback Yale Weaver's passes this year for the Edwardsville football team as the Tigers opened practice on Aug. 11, 2025, to prepare for the 2025 season. Hill-Lomax had a good season last year in Edwardsville's 6-4 campaign, catching 18 passes for 341 yards and four touchdowns, and also made contributions on special teams, returning one kickoff for 27 yards and three punts for 47 yards, and assisted defensively on two tackles. He is a Spencer Homes Male Athlete of the Month for the Tigers. In an interview conducted following the first practice session, Hill-Lomax felt things went well for the Tigers, as they were just getting started for their preparations for the season. "I feel like they went great," Hill-Lomax said. "We're just installing stuff today, just learning. We weren't doing anything crazy." Needless to say, he's looking ahead for the upcoming season, which starts with

Continue Reading

HIGHLAND — As students return to classrooms in the Highland School District, local law enforcement is emphasizing the importance of safe driving in school zones. The Highland Police Department has assigned two School Resource Officers (SROs) to support the district’s schools this academic year. Officer Chris Clewis, who joined the department in June 2008, serves as the SRO for Highland Elementary and Primary Schools. A Southern Illinois University Edwardsville graduate with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Clewis brings a diverse set of skills to his role, including certifications as a Crisis Intervention Team member, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Taser Instructor, Drone Pilot, Gracie Ground Fighting Instructor, and Knife Defense Instructor. He is also an investigator with the Major Case Squad and an instructor at the Southwestern Illinois Police Academy. Officer Nathan Biggs serves as the SRO for Highland High and Middle Schools. Biggs earned a bachelor’s

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - During their monthly work session on Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education discussed plans to abate and renovate Hamel Elementary School. In 2023, District #7 voters approved a $100 million bond proposal to improve district facilities. As part of this bond, Hamel Elementary School is to undergo asbestos abatement and renovations. On Aug. 11, 2025, Justin Placek with BLDD Architects and Ryan Savage with Holland Construction provided an update to the Board about potential projects to abate and renovate Hamel. They explained that these plans were “conceptual” and could be adjusted as needed. Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton said that construction is projected to cost $4.2 million. He said there are a few options that the Board can consider, including building a new classroom wing or using part of a pod as a cafeteria space. Board member Matt Breihan said the renditions “look great on paper,”

Continue Reading

ALTON - The American Diabetes Association (ADA) announced the recognition of Alton Memorial Hospital through their Education Recognition Program (ERP). The ADA’s ERP certificate assures that educational services meet the National Standards for diabetes self-management education and support. The corresponding intervention provided is evidence-based and outcome driven. Services apply for recognition voluntarily and ADA-ERP recognition lasts for four years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) National Diabetes Fact Sheet, there are over 38 million people, or 11.6%, of the U.S. population who have diabetes. While an estimated 29.7 million have been diagnosed, unfortunately 8.7 million people are not aware they have this disease. Each day, nearly 3,300 Americans are diagnosed with diabetes. Many will first learn they have diabetes when they are treated for one of its life-threatening complications—heart disease, stroke, kidney

Continue Reading

The LST 325 lands on the city riverfront Sept. 18-22 ALTON - A piece of world maritime history, the LST 325, will dock at the Alton Riverfront Sept. 18-22 and be open for public tours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Admission for these self-guided tours is $20 for adults, $10 for those 6 – 17 years of age and free for kids 5 and under. Visitors to the LST 325 will meet the ship’s crew who will provide detailed descriptions of the role the LST ships played during U.S. wars and honor the men who served on the ships. The ship, which was used in the invasion at Omaha Beach on D Day, is one of 1,051 LSTs built in the U.S. during World War II, and is the only remaining working LST in the country. “This is an important piece of our World War II history and we are pleased to welcome the LST 325 to Alton,” Cory Jobe, President/CEO of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau said. The LST ships could carry 20 Sherman tanks in the hold of the ship and 30 to

Continue Reading

ST. CLAIR COUNTY – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with and received a briefing at Scott Air Force Base from U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) leadership, including Deputy Commander Lieutenant General Jered Helwig and Director of Global Patient Movement Operations and Command Surgeon Colonel (Dr.) Christopher Backus. She also met with Commanders of the 126th Air Refueling Wing, 932nd Airlift Wing and the 375th Air Mobility Wing. During her meetings, Duckworth emphasized her steadfast support for the base’s missions and discussed transportation and mobility priorities. Photos from today’s visit are available on Senator Duckworth’s website. “Scott Air Force Base is an important driver of our state’s economy, a key component of our country’s national security efforts and a critical support network for the individuals who serve—along with their families,” Duckworth said. “The work

Continue Reading

FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS — As the new school year begins, Fairview Heights Police are stepping up efforts to ensure student safety through increased patrols and specialized training for teachers. In preparation for the return of students, teachers have been participating in “Stop the Bleed” training, a program designed to equip them with skills to respond effectively in emergency situations. Meanwhile, School Resource Officers have been preparing for weeks to foster strong, positive relationships with students and parents. Fairview Heights Police are also urging drivers to exercise caution by slowing down in school zones, stopping for school buses, and allowing children extra time to cross streets safely. Officers will be increasing their presence in and around schools throughout the community to help maintain a secure environment. “Let’s work together for a safe and successful school year,” the department said in a statement.

Continue Reading

GLEN CARBON - The Glen Carbon Police Department has launched a new K9 patrol program with the addition of A’to, a 2-year-old German Shepherd trained in narcotics detection and tracking. This initiative, made possible by a $15,000 donation from Dr. Mark Eavenson of Multicare Specialists, aims to enhance crime prevention, offender apprehension, and officer and community safety. Officer Louis Mitchelar, A’to’s handler, is currently undergoing training with the dog at the K9 academy and is expected to return to full patrol duty with A’to in May 2017. The program will also include community engagement activities such as demonstrations, security at special events, and assistance to neighboring police departments requiring a trained patrol K9. The Glen Carbon Police Department expressed gratitude to Dr. Eavenson for his support, noting that his contribution allows the department to establish and operate the K9 program independently without using the Village’s

Continue Reading

PIASA - Cason Robinson, a sophomore at Southwestern High School, emerged as a standout athlete on the boys’ track and field team this spring. Robinson has competed in sprint and middle-distance events, including the 100-meter, 200-meter, and 400-meter dashes, as well as several relay races. His consistent improvement throughout the season earned him the second-most points on the team and the Outstanding Sophomore Award. Robinson recorded an 11.2-second split at the IHSA 1A Sectional Meet held at Virden (North Mac) and posted an open best time of 12.04 seconds in the 100 meters earlier this spring. He also achieved personal records of 24.96 seconds in the 200 meters and 57.14 seconds in the 400 meters. In addition, Robinson cleared 5 feet 8.75 inches in the high jump in the Riverton Meet. After the track season concluded, Robinson plans to apply his sprinting speed and leaping ability to football, where he will play as a wide receiver and defensive back for the Piasa Birds in

Continue Reading

Did you know that only about 10% of the global population is left-handed? Despite being a minority, left-handers have made remarkable contributions to art, science, and culture throughout history. Yet, many everyday tools and gadgets are designed with right-handed users in mind, often overlooking the unique challenges and preferences of lefties. National Left-Handers Day, observed annually on August 13th, offers a special opportunity to recognize and celebrate the distinctiveness of left-handed individuals. One engaging way to honor this day is through creative DIY crafts that highlight left-handedness, promote inclusivity, and encourage hands-on appreciation of this unique trait. Understanding Left-Handedness: More Than Just Which Hand You Use Left-handedness is not merely a preference but a neurological trait linked to brain lateralization. Studies suggest that lefties often develop enhanced spatial awareness and creativity, which can be nurtured through tailored activities. However,

Continue Reading

August 13th stands as a day marked by a tapestry of pivotal events that have shaped the course of human history across the globe. One of the most globally significant events occurred on August 13, 1961, when East Germany began constructing the Berlin Wall. Erected overnight, this formidable barrier physically and ideologically divided East and West Berlin, symbolizing the tensions of the Cold War era. The Wall not only separated families and friends but also became a stark representation of the struggle between communist and capitalist ideologies. Its impact resonated worldwide, influencing diplomatic policies and shaping the lives of millions until its fall in 1989. Going further back, August 13, 1521, marked the fall of Tenochtitlán, the capital of the Aztec Empire, to Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés. This event signaled a dramatic shift in the Americas, leading to Spanish colonization and profound changes in indigenous cultures, demographics, and

Continue Reading

GOODLETTSVILLE, Tenn. - Dollar General Corp. is recalling three lots of its 8-ounce Clover Valley Instant Coffee because the product may contain glass.The affected coffee has the package UPC 876941004069 and the following lot numbers and best-by dates: Lot L-5163 / Best by Dec. 13, 2026 Lot L-5164 / Best by Dec. 13, 2026 Lot L-5165 / Best by Dec. 14, 2026 Lot and best-by information are printed around the neck of the container. The coffee was sold exclusively at Dollar General stores between July 9 and July 21 in 45 states: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia,

Continue Reading

ALTON - Scott Harper, coach of the Alton High boys baseball team, highlighted the contributions of Jack Puent, No. 23, following the recent season. Puent, a 6-foot-1, 178-pound center fielder and pitcher, played a significant role for the Redbirds. He is an Auto Butler Male Athlete of the Month for Alton. “Puent stepped up and did a good job on the mound, and next year will play into an even bigger role,” Harper said, emphasizing the athlete’s impact both as a solid hitter and a top-notch pitcher throughout the season." Coach Harper said he expects Puent will be one of the keys to Alton's success in baseball next spring and will be a pivotal player.

Continue Reading

GLEN CARBON — Natalie Beck has distinguished herself as a versatile athlete at Father McGivney Catholic High School, excelling in soccer, tennis, and basketball. As a junior during the 2024-2025 school year, Beck played a key role in the soccer team’s success and is set to return for the 2026 season. Beck’s impact was especially notable on the soccer field, where she played center forward and served as a primary offensive option for the Griffins. Matt McVicar, McGivney’s soccer coach, praised her work ethic and demeanor, describing her as “soft spoken” and “a good example of what it takes to be a McGivney soccer player.” He added that Beck gives “100 percent” effort in every aspect of the game. Beck is a Byron, Carlson, Petri & Kalb Female Athlete of the Month for the Griffins. In addition to soccer, Beck has achieved extraordinary success in girls' tennis, partnering with doubles player Kennedi Taylor to secure multiple

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE — Grace Brown, a recent senior graduate at Metro East Lutheran High School, recently wrapped up her athletic career as a versatile member of the girls' soccer, cheer and dance teams. Brown was a player who could play all over the soccer field for the Knights this spring. She earned recognition as the BJ’s Printables Female Athlete of the Month for the Knights for her soccer, cheer and dance efforts for MELHS. “Grace was a player who could come in and play multiple positions for us,” said Rob Stock, head girls soccer coach at Metro East Lutheran. “This was her first year playing soccer, and she did a great job learning the game and added a lot to the team.” Brown’s contributions across multiple sports highlighted her adaptability and commitment throughout her final year at MELHS.

Continue Reading