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Riverbend Family Ministries Supports Community Members with "Holistic Hub" of Resources

2 days 4 hours ago
WOOD RIVER - Riverbend Family Ministries acts as a cooling center during these hot months, but their staff works year-round to support community members. Located in Wood River, RFM is a “holistic hub” that brings together eight nonprofits under one roof. The organization primarily works with individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, poverty or violence. “We always say that our families are so brave to walk through our door,” said founder Tammy Iskarous. “RFM has been busy helping to meet that need. We can't meet it all, but we can meet a big portion of it in this county.” Rachael Craddick, Development Director, noted there are a lot of benefits to having so many resources under one roof. Clients can share their stories with staff members and receive the assistance they need. “There’s a wide variety of resources right there in the building that they can access,” Craddick said. “Sometimes it’s just

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How to Host a Fun (And Safe) Fourth of July Party

2 days 5 hours ago
Did you know that nearly 80 million Americans celebrate the 4th of July each year with parties, barbecues, and fireworks? This monumental display of patriotism and festivity often brings families and friends together, but hosting a memorable and smooth 4th of July party requires more than just sparklers and burgers. Whether you’re a seasoned host or planning your first Independence Day gathering, there are key strategies to ensure your celebration is enjoyable, safe, and truly unforgettable. Crafting the Perfect Invitation and Guest List The foundation of any successful party starts with thoughtful planning of who to invite and how to invite them. For a 4th of July event, consider the atmosphere you want to create—whether it’s a casual backyard barbecue or a more formal evening gathering. Tip: Use digital invitations to manage RSVPs efficiently. Platforms like Evite or Paperless Post can add a patriotic theme to your invites, setting the tone from the outset.

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This Day in History on July 2: Lyndon B. Johnson Signs Civil Rights Act into Law

2 days 5 hours ago
July 2 stands out as a pivotal day in history, marked by momentous events that have shaped nations, cultures, and the course of humanity. 1776 – The Birth of American Independence On July 2, 1776, the Second Continental Congress officially voted to declare the thirteen American colonies independent from British rule. Spearheaded by figures like John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, the resolution for independence was passed, signaling the start of a revolutionary era. Although the Declaration of Independence would be publicly announced two days later, July 2 remains the actual date the colonies severed their ties with Britain. This watershed moment in history not only birthed the United States but also sent ripples across the world, inspiring democratic ideals and the pursuit of self-governance. John Adams famously believed that July 2 would be celebrated as a great American holiday, even more so than July 4. 1494 – Treaty of Tordesillas Divides the New World Fast forward

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Alton Municipal Band Celebrates Independence Day With Patriotic Concerts

2 days 6 hours ago
ALTON - The Alton Municipal Band continues its 135th season of Concerts in the Parks with its annual Star Spangled Spectacular, celebrating Independence Day with music and community. The concerts, featuring vocal soloist David Guebert, will feature patriotic tunes of all kinds, including famous marches by John Philip Sousa, new patriotic songs by Mark Brymer, and the always popular salute to those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Held surrounding the Independence Day holiday, the concerts are the perfect way for families to mark the special weekend. Thursday evening, at Riverview Park, the band plays overlooking the Mississippi River at 7:30 PM. The concert will repeat on Sunday at 7 PM, in front of the historic Lucy Haskell Playhouse. Kona Ice will be present at the Sunday concert, selling spar-spangled snow cones for all in attendance. Alton Municipal Band concerts are free and open to the public. Community members are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs

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