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The Wedge Powered by SIUE Unveils Bold July Programming to Power Small Business Growth and Regional Collaboration

4 months 1 week ago
ALTON, IL – Something electric is happening in downtown Alton. The Wedge, powered by SIUE, is turning up the energy this July with a lineup of dynamic events that bring together entrepreneurs, visionaries, and changemakers from across the region. “At The Wedge, we’re not just hosting events—we’re building a culture of possibility. July’s lineup is about giving people the tools, connections, and momentum to move their ideas forward,” said Stephanie Schrage, Community Manager at The Wedge . “Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a creative, or just curious about what’s next—we want you in the room.” From rooftop networking and expert-led business courses to storytelling labs that reimagine how we see and shape our communities—every event this month is designed to spark collaboration and increase impact. “At The Wedge, we’re building more than just a space—we’re building momentum for bol

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Alton Splash Pad Closures Announced For Upcoming Amphitheater Events

4 months 1 week ago
ALTON – Alton Parks and Recreation would like to notify residents and visitors of upcoming temporary closures of the Splash Pad located near the Alton Amphitheater due to major events in the area. To ensure public safety and accommodate event operations, the Splash Pad will be closed on the following dates: Friday, June 27, and Saturday, June 28 – Closed for the Mississippi River Festival Friday, July 18 through Sunday, July 20 – Closed for the F1 Powerboat Races The Splash Pad will reopen for regular business hours (10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) the day following each event. "We appreciate the community’s understanding as we support these exciting events along the riverfront," the park and rec department said. "These closures are necessary to manage large crowds and maintain a safe environment for all attendees." For more information regarding the Mississippi River Festival, please visit their website directly at www.mississippiriverfest.com. F1 Power

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Beer Master Tour

4 months 1 week ago

The biggest fans of Budweiser must book a Beermaster Tour while they’re in St. Louis. The two-hour tour gives guests an all-access look at how the King of Beers is […]

The post Beer Master Tour appeared first on Explore St. Louis.

Rachel Huffman

Day Fresh Tour

4 months 1 week ago

The most popular tour at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery in St. Louis explains the life of an Anheuser-Busch beer from seed to glass. Along the way, you’ll visit the Clydesdales Paddock […]

The post Day Fresh Tour appeared first on Explore St. Louis.

Rachel Huffman

ThriVe Metro East Names Jacqueline Duty As New Executive Director To Lead Ministry Into Next Chapter Of Growth

4 months 1 week ago
GODFREY — ThriVe Metro East is pleased to announce the appointment of Jacqueline “Jackie” Duty as its new executive director, following the resignation of former director Cara Paschal earlier this year. The Board of Directors conducted a careful search, seeking a leader with the marketing expertise and digital strategy experience to expand outreach and serve more at-risk women and families in the region. With the recent launch of telehealth services, ThriVe Metro East is focusing on increasing its digital footprint, enhancing client engagement, and continuing to provide life-affirming care in new and innovative ways. “We are proud to welcome Jackie Duty as the next Executive Director of ThriVe Metro East,” said Board Chair Dale Blachford. “Her decades of experience in media, marketing, and community development — combined with her deep-rooted commitment to life-affirming values— make her uniquely suited to lead this ministry forward.”

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The Best Summer Hikes for Stunning Views and Fresh Air

4 months 1 week ago
Imagine standing on a ridge overlooking an endless tapestry of mountains bathed in golden light, the scent of pine filling your lungs, and a gentle breeze whispering through the trees. This is the transformative power of hiking—a simple yet profound way to reconnect with nature while invigorating both body and mind. For those seeking the perfect blend of breathtaking vistas and refreshing outdoor experiences, certain trails stand out as must-visit destinations during the summer months. Why Choose Summer for Hiking? While hiking is a year-round activity, summer offers unique advantages that enhance the experience. Longer daylight hours provide ample time to explore, and many high-altitude trails are accessible only when snow has melted. Additionally, summer’s warm temperatures make it easier to tackle longer or more challenging routes without the constraints imposed by cold weather gear. However, the abundance of sunlight and warmth also means hikers need to prepare carefully

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How to Create a Summer Reading List for All Ages

4 months 1 week ago
Did you know that children who read just six books over the summer maintain reading skills better than those who don’t? Yet, the challenge remains: how do you craft a reading list that appeals to everyone in the family—from toddlers to grandparents—without overwhelming or underwhelming any age group? Building a summer reading list that spans generations requires intentionality and creativity, but the rewards include fostering lifelong reading habits, sparking conversation, and creating shared memories. Understanding the Reading Needs of Different Age Groups Before selecting books, it’s crucial to recognize that reading interests and abilities vary widely with age. What captivates a preschooler will rarely engage a teenager, and adults often seek different themes and complexities. Young Children (Ages 0-7): At this stage, picture books with vibrant illustrations and simple narratives are most effective. These books build vocabulary and encourage early literac

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How to Build a Backyard Fire Pit for Summer Nights

4 months 1 week ago
Imagine gathering around a glowing circle of warmth, where stories flow as easily as the flickering flames, and the night air carries the scent of wood smoke and toasted marshmallows. A backyard fire pit is more than an outdoor feature; it’s a catalyst for connection, relaxation, and memorable evenings. But creating this inviting space takes more than just stacking stones—it requires thoughtful planning, safety considerations, and a touch of craftsmanship. Why Build a Backyard Fire Pit? Before diving into the how-to, it’s worth noting the growing popularity and benefits of backyard fire pits. Studies indicate that outdoor living spaces enhance home value by up to 20%, and fire pits are among the most sought-after features. Beyond aesthetics and property value, fire pits serve as social hubs, offering a cozy retreat for family and friends. Planning Your Fire Pit: Location and Design Choosing the Right Spot Selecting the ideal location is crucial for both safety

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This Day in History on June 23: Germany Launches Invades Soviet Union During World War II

4 months 1 week ago
June 23 has been a date marked by numerous significant events throughout history, spanning the realms of science, politics, culture, and exploration. A notable event occurred in 1941 during World War II, when Germany launched Operation Barbarossa on June 23, initiating the invasion of the Soviet Union. This marked one of the largest military offensives in history and dramatically altered the course of the war, with profound consequences for both Eastern Europe and the global balance of power. In the cultural sphere, June 23 has witnessed several milestones. For example, in 1894, the first ever motor race in the United States took place, signaling the dawn of a new era in transportation and automotive innovation. This event laid the groundwork for the thriving motorsport industry and the widespread adoption of automobiles. In literature, June 23 is celebrated as Bloomsday in honor of James Joyce’s novel “Ulysses,” which chronicles the events of a single day in Dublin

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Bill banning race-based hair discrimination in education awaits Missouri governor’s decision

4 months 1 week ago
Missouri could soon join 27 states with laws protecting natural hair textures, though the anti-discrimination provisions only apply to educational settings. The legislation, dubbed the CROWN Act, has been proposed in Missouri since 2020 and is part of a national movement to enshrine protections for curls and coils. The cities of St. Louis and Kansas […]
Annelise Hanshaw