Riverbender 🕸

BELLEVILLE — A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the George Pappas family following a tragic fire that claimed the lives of three family members in Belleville early on Oct. 28, 2024. The fundraiser, organized by Brittany Rowan Sullivan, aims to assist the family as they cope with their devastating loss. The fire, which was classified as a two-alarm incident, destroyed the Pappas family's home while they were asleep. In addition to the loss of their residence and personal belongings, the family mourns the deaths of George Pappas's father, brother, and the father of his niece's child. The family also lost two dogs and a cat in the fire. As George Pappas, along with his mother, niece, and one-year-old nephew, faces the challenges of starting over, the community is being called upon for support. Sullivan emphasized the need for shelter and essential items, stating, "We ask the compassionate hearts of the Rowan Tire network, Belleville Community, surrounding towns,

Continue Reading

MARYVILLE - The Anderson Hospital Foundation 13th Annual Sporting Clay Classic was held on October 12th at NILO Farms in Brighton Illinois. The event featured 100 targets and 12 stations on two courses to accommodate the large number of shooters, the event also included a large BBQ buffet for the shooters. We had 201 shooters, which was a record amount, that came out on a beautiful fall day to enjoy this event. We thank the Sporting Clay Committee who worked hard to make this event a success and the sponsors that donated to this event and who continue to support us each year, said Lori St. John, Director of Development The event raised over $55,000.00. The Foundation allocates funds for capital projects and programs in support of Anderson Hospital. The 14th annual Sporting Clay event will be on October 18th, 2025 at NILO Farms. Please contact Lori St. John at 618-391-6426 for more information.

Continue Reading

ALTON — The Alton Police Department expressed gratitude for the support received from MustacheMarch4PD, an organization that has raised over $11,000 through the sale of K9 Odin shirts and donations. This funding directly benefits both the police department and the local community. The announcement was made on social media, highlighting the organization's contributions, which include a community gathering featuring cheeseburgers and fries from Tony's Ranch House, along with various sweet treats. “This is what community is all about,” the department stated in their post. “We’re proud to serve alongside such fantastic supporters.” MustacheMarch4PD’s fundraising efforts demonstrate a commitment to enhancing public safety and community engagement in Alton. The Alton Police Department acknowledged the ongoing partnership, emphasizing the positive impact it has on their operations and the community they serve. The event underscores the importance

Continue Reading

COLLINSVILLE — The Collinsville Police Department has recognized Officer Trent Ross as the Officer of the Month for September, highlighting his contributions to community safety and law enforcement efforts in the region. Officer Ross and his K9 partner Rocky have been instrumental in combating crime in Collinsville and neighboring communities. Their collaborative efforts often involve tracking and apprehending suspects beyond city limits. In addition to his work with K9 Rocky, Officer Ross has focused on ensuring road safety through DUI enforcement. His initiatives in September led to the removal of seven impaired drivers from local roadways. The Collinsville Police Department expressed gratitude for Officer Ross's dedication, stating, "Thank you Officer Ross for all your efforts to keep the metro area safe."

Continue Reading

COLLINSVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting a career fair Nov. 13 in Collinsville. The fair will be held from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Gateway Convention Center, 1 Gateway Drive. Representatives from the offices and bureaus who oversee both technical and administrative support responsibilities will be available to discuss current and upcoming employment opportunities at various IDOT locations. Attendees can learn how to apply for state jobs and attend breakout sessions. Partners from Central Management Services will be available to help explain the application process. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office will have staff present to answer questions on obtaining a commercial driver’s license for positions where one is required. The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs also will be available to provide guidance on programs and services for qualified veterans. While a limited number of computers will be available

Continue Reading

BELLEVILLE - Belleville Books, southern Illinois' premier independent bookstore , is hosting Grateful for Local Authors , a multi-author event featuring 10 local, self-published authors autographing their new books. This free, public event will take place on Saturday, November 16 from 1-3 p.m. Belleville Books, housed in the neo-classic lobby of a historic 1912 bank building on Belleville's Main Street, celebrates the hard work and fortitude that authors demonstrate in the creative process of conveying their dream of writing a book from dream to reality. The following authors and their new self-published books at this event Kazuko Blake, Kazuko- Sixth Grade in World War II Hiroshima Cynthia Chasteen, Mindful Movement, Language & Literacy Through the Americas Erin Litteken, The Lost Daughters of Ukraine and The Memory Keeper of Kyiv Sam Lutton, A Season in Picardy Jenna Malin, Kissing Catastrophe Larry Pearson, Balin and the Hollow Knight Patricia Sauer, Brave

Continue Reading

ALTON - Plans for two significant new National Scenic Byway corridor activation projects are moving forward in the Great Rivers & Routes region of southwest Illinois with both slated to open Spring 2026 along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway between Hartford and Grafton. The new Byway Discovery Center, a 4,500-square-foot visitor orientation facility will be constructed on a parcel of land near the mouth of Piasa Creek, on the Madison/Jersey County line, west of Alton on the Scenic Byway. The Center will feature new hardscapes including landscaping, parking with access for motor coach buses, outdoor gathering and learning areas, interpretive panels, an outdoor art installation, kiosks, a riverside trail, and kayak landing. The site is also immediately upstream of the US Army Corps of Engineers Piasa Creek Recreation Area and Boater Access. The center itself will include 1,400 square feet of permanent exhibit space, a gift shop, lecture facilities and publi

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) hosted a roundtable with independent pharmacists, pharmacy students and faculty at the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) School of Pharmacy to discuss the predatory practices of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). Under the current system, PBMs act as middlemen between manufacturers, insurers and pharmacies - inflating drug prices at the expense of patients with complex rebate and pricing structures. In Illinois and across the country, PBMs have forced independent pharmacies to close by steering patients to PBM-affiliated pharmacies and excluding in-network pharmacies from filling prescriptions. “Today’s conversation made clear that we must take action to rein in PBMs who have gone unchecked for far too long,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “That’s exactly why I’m fighting to pass legislation to provide more transparency, accountability and guardrails to crack down

Continue Reading

COLLINSVILLE - The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting a career fair Nov. 13, 2024 in Collinsville. The fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Gateway Convention Center, 1 Gateway Drive. Representatives from the offices and bureaus who oversee both technical and administrative support responsibilities will be available to discuss current and upcoming employment opportunities at various IDOT locations. Attendees can learn how to apply for state jobs and attend breakout sessions. Partners from Central Management Services will be available to help explain the application process. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office will have staff present to answer questions on obtaining a commercial driver’s license for positions where one is required. The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs also will be available to provide guidance on programs and services for qualified veterans. While a limited number of computers will be available t

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - State Senator Erica Harriss was joined by local farmers and the Madison County Farm Bureau on Friday as they presented her with a Friend of Agriculture award from the Illinois Farm Bureau. “I am honored to be recognized by our local farmers and the Illinois Farm Bureau with this award,” said Senator Harriss. “Our farming community plays a vital role in the 56th District and across our state, and we must continue to find ways to support our producers moving forward.” This award honors legislators in the 103rd General Assembly who demonstrate strong support for farming and agriculture. Recipients recognize the extensive impact of Illinois' agricultural products and the essential role farmers play in providing quality food, fiber, and fuel for the state and the world. “Since taking office, Senator Harriss has shown strong support for our local farming community and continues to maintain an open line of communication with our office and beyond,&rdquo

Continue Reading

JERSEYVILLE - State Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) is sponsoring an electronics recycling event for constituents of his district on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024 at the Jerseyville Community Hospital. Bring anything with a cord and anything made of metal to 400 Maple Summit Road in Jerseyville from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. “This recycling event is a great opportunity for all of us to clear up the clutter in our homes and garages for electronics that cannot be included with our everyday garbage,” explained Rep. Davidsmeyer. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of this event. Also, if you have neighbors who do not drive, offer to bring their items with you on Saturday.” Working with a local recycling company, Rep. Davidsmeyer encourages people to bring computer towers, printers, servers, switches and other technical equipment. Also accepted will be landline phones, cable T.V. boxes, cell phones, wireless modems, audio and video equipment, holiday lights, and even

Continue Reading

CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced all income-eligible households can now apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to support with utility bill assistance for natural gas, propane and electricity. Applications expanded today, Nov. 1, 2024, and will be accepted through Aug. 15, 2025, or until funds are exhausted. “With temperatures dropping and the winter season just weeks away, my administration is committed to keeping every family warm and safe,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Thanks to $226 million from our Help Illinois Families Program, we’re providing crucial utility support to thousands of income-eligible households. I highly encourage all eligible families to apply and get the assistance they need to stay warm this winter.” “Every family deserves a safe, secure and warm home, regardless of income,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton.

Continue Reading

CHICAGO - Today is the kickoff for Open Enrollment on the Get Covered Illinois Health Insurance Marketplace, with 11 health insurance companies offering plans. Illinoisans can enroll through January 15th. "The Get Covered Illinois Marketplace has a total of 347 health plans offered throughout the state this year,” said IDOI Director Ann Gillespie. “So, we want every Illinoisan in need of health insurance coverage to know that quality, affordable, coverage is available. Our Get Covered Illinois Navigators are certified and trained to help you choose the right plan for your needs, walk you through the enrollment process, and find out if you qualify for financial assistance. Just visit GetCoveredIllinois.gov ." The Illinois Department of Insurance also released health insurance rates for the 2025 Plan Year. Plan availability and rates will vary based on where a consumer lives. In some areas of the state, consumers will see a decrease in health insurance premiums, and othe

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - The ebb and flow of political ramifications due to racial and economic equity gains following 1964 Landmark Civil Rights legislation, inform the need for ongoing, diligent work for civil liberties, as the country braces for the 2024 Presidential Election. The above view was held by four Southern Illinois University Edwardsville faculty members who made up the panel during Southern Illinois University (SIU) System’s Conversation of Understanding (COU), held Wednesday, Oct. 30 in the Morris University Center’s Legacy Room on the campus of SIUE. The topic of discission was “Delivering on Promises: The Legacy of the Civil Rights Act and Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, and the 2024 Presidential Election.” Panelists included: Anthony Cheeseboro, PhD, associate professor in the Department of History; Bryan Jack, PhD, professor and director of SIUE’s Universities Studying Slavery Initiative in the Department of History; Timothy Lewis, PhD,

Continue Reading

GODFREY - At 10:49 a.m. Sunday, the Godfrey Fire Department responded to a garage fire on the 3100 Block of Ron Drive. Firefighters arrived to find a fire that posed a significant risk of spreading to the adjacent home. The department reported that the fire was extinguished using only the tank water from both engines, highlighting the effectiveness of their aggressive firefighting tactics. “This fire had real potential to spread to the home, but thanks to the skill and determination of our firefighters, it was extinguished,” a spokesperson from the Godfrey Fire Department stated. The area is known for having limited hydrants, making the rapid response and teamwork crucial in preventing further damage. The department expressed gratitude for the hard work displayed by its firefighters and acknowledged the assistance of the Fosterburg Fire Department at the scene.

Continue Reading

Friendsgiving has become a beloved tradition in recent years, offering a chance for friends to gather and celebrate gratitude, fellowship, and, of course, delicious food. Whether you're a seasoned host or planning your first Friendsgiving dinner, this guide will provide you with all the essential tips, tricks, and inspiration to make your event memorable. What is Friendsgiving? Friendsgiving is a portmanteau of "friends" and "Thanksgiving," a gathering typically held around the Thanksgiving holiday. While traditional Thanksgiving dinners center around family, Friendsgiving allows friends to come together, share a meal, and enjoy each other's company. This celebration can take place on the actual Thanksgiving day or any day leading up to it, making it flexible and accommodating for everyone's schedules. Setting the Date and Time Choose the Right Date The first step in hosting a successful Friendsgiving dinner is selecting a date that works for everyone. Consider the following: Flexibili

Continue Reading

Welcome to another edition of This Day in History, where we delve into the remarkable events that have shaped our world. Today, we explore the significant happenings that took place on November 3rd throughout the years, highlighting how these events continue to influence our lives. Buckle up as we take a journey through time! 1783: The End of the American Revolutionary War On November 3, 1783, the American Revolutionary War officially came to an end when General George Washington issued his farewell orders to the Continental Army. The conflict, which had begun in 1775, had seen thirteen American colonies rebel against British rule, ultimately establishing the United States as an independent nation. Washington's leadership during the war was pivotal, and his farewell addressed not only marked the conclusion of military hostilities but also set the stage for the new nation’s governance. This event is celebrated as a turning point in history, as it ushered in a new era of democracy

Continue Reading

GLEN CARBON - Dr. Kristen M. Jacobs is hosting “Ooh La Las Vegas,” a casino-themed event at Ooh La La Spa, Anti-Aging & Wellness, to educate the public on how to take care of their skin. Dr. Jacobs is the Owner and Founder of Ooh La La Spa, Anti-Aging & Wellness and the author of “Live Life Beautifully (With a Little Help).” Dr. Jacobs will be offering an evening of cocktails, appetizers, demonstrations, casino games and door prizes. The event will be held at 110 Cottonwood Road in Glen Carbon on Nov. 6, 2024 from 4 to 7 p.m. Dr. Jacobs is a faculty member and instructor with Allergan Medical Institute for Facial Aesthetics as a Botox, Juvederm and Kybella trainer. Her expertise places her in the top one percent of Allergan accounts in the country. In 2023, she opened Aesthetic Resource & Training (ART) Academy to provide different levels of training in injectables and help medical professionals grow their knowledge in aesthetic medicine. About Ooh La La

Continue Reading

ROXANA — Tolono Unity's commanding first-half performance set the tone for a 44-31 victory over Roxana in the first round of the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Class 3A football playoffs on Saturday at Charles Raich Field. The Rockets received the opening kickoff. Roxana's defense initially made a mark with an interception, leading to a field goal by kicker Joe Newton that gave the Shells a brief 3-0 lead. Tolono Unity quickly responded, with Garrett Richardson scoring a touchdown to put the Rockets ahead 6-3 after a blocked extra point. The second quarter saw the Rockets dominate, scoring three touchdowns and a field goal. Richardson added two more rushing touchdowns, while Tre Hoggard caught a touchdown pass, leaving Roxana trailing 30-3 at halftime. The third quarter featured a back-and-forth exchange of touchdowns. Hoggard caught another touchdown pass to extend the Rockets' lead to 37-3. Roxana's quarterback Sean Maberry then connected with Kale Hester

Continue Reading

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, fall offers a perfect opportunity to refresh your home’s exterior with a seasonal touch. One of the easiest and most impactful ways to welcome the autumn season is by creating a DIY fall wreath for your front door. Not only does a wreath add charm to your entrance, but it also reflects the beauty of the season. This article will provide you with a variety of DIY fall wreath ideas, practical tips, and essential materials to create a stunning display that will impress your guests and neighbors. Why Make a Fall Wreath? Creating a DIY fall wreath allows you to express your creativity while incorporating natural elements that capture the essence of the season. Whether you prefer a rustic design or a modern twist, a homemade wreath can be customized to suit your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your home. Additionally, crafting your own wreath can be a fulfilling and enjoyable activity, perfect for individuals, families,

Continue Reading