Currents 2018

Charting a course for the Riverbend

Copyright 2017 AdVantage News

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GROWTH ASSOCIA TION

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Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy in this publication. The Association and AdVantage News assume no responsibility for misinformation. Please contact the Association with any additions or corrections. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of the Association and AdVantage News is prohibited.

Project Coordinator

Monica Bristow

Research Coordinator

Debbie Hagen

Editor

Fred Pollard

Designer

Missy Long

Writers

David Colburn • Frank Prager

Louise Jett • Melissa Meske

Bill Roseberry • Fred Pollard

Nicole Dicks • Jaci Rothe of Cork Tree Creative

Photographer

Andrew Dobson

Other photography by Fred Pollard • Louise Jett

Bill Roseberry • Melissa Meske

It is with great pleasure that the RiverBend Growth Association presents its 2018 Community Profile magazine – Currents – as our opportunity to highlight the people and places that make the Riverbend special. We hope you’ll enjoy this publication and display and share it proudly in your business or home. As in the past, we once again are featuring businesses that are members of the RBGA and are celebrating milestone anniversaries. This year, however, we are also proud to feature some young entrepreneurs who have chosen to live, work, play and build their businesses in the Riverbend. We hope you’ll take the opportunity to patronize and visit these community businesses.

As the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development organization for the communities of the Riverbend, we take great pride in the area’s outstanding educational system, quality workforce, recreational and tourism attractions and most importantly our sense of community.

We continue to promote development opportunities in the Riverbend to the rest of the world through our website, www.GrowthAssociation.com and

through economic development events and activities. We continue to build on our partnerships in the community that strengthen our workforce and educational system and help small, mid-sized and large businesses compete in the local and global marketplace. We work closely with state, regional, county and local officials to develop new employment opportunities and keep our communities business-friendly.

We are fortunate to have so many businesses that support the community. The Growth Association constantly strives to develop programs and events that will help our member businesses—large and small, new and old--and our community in general.

Thank you for your interest in the Riverbend, a community with so much to offer that we are proud to share it with visitors and future residents!

Sincerely,

Monica Bristow Growth Association President

VIEW A PDF ONLINE AT advantagenews.com & growthassociation.com

Ser ving Business, Encouraging Growth in Southwestern Illinois

Charting a course for the Riverbend

South Roxana Mayor Barbara

Overton and Wood River Mayor Cheryl Maguire are the first women in the Riverbend to lead their municipalities.

Lewis and Clark Community College is a two-year higher education institution with multiple campuses, a river research center, a global humanities center, a training center, an adult education center and community education centers dedicated to empowering people throughout the college district, which encompasses more than 220,000 people.

The college’s offerings run the gamut, from more than 40 career programs and transfer options to College for Kids, a nationally accredited dual credit program for high school students, GED completion and workforce and safety training.

A national and state awardwinning standout among Illinois community colleges, L&C was founded in 1970 and currently serves approximately 15,000 students annually. The college employs more than 660 employees and adds $369.4 million in regional income annually, which represents 4.7 percent of the region’s GRP.

The Godfrey campus is unique, known for its beautiful, historic location on the grounds of the former Monticello College, the second oldest all-female college in the nation, founded in 1838. The campus features the Monticello Sculpture Gardens, a botanical garden which comprises 14 eye-

catching sculptures and multiple fountains, and is a Signature Garden site for the Missouri Botanical Garden. The campus welcomes more than 200,000 visitors to campus every year.

The historic N.O. Nelson Campus, a former industrial complex in Edwardsville’s Leclaire neighborhood, is now home to the college’s Process Operations Technology and Instrumentation and Control Systems programs, as well as the St. Louis Confluence Fab Lab and the Leclaire Room, which is used for numerous community events. The campus is utilized by more than 1,500 students.

Lewis and Clark is dedicated to public engagement, from reducing the college’s carbon footprint and encouraging sustainable practices and education, to delivering affordable health care to underserved populations through a Mobile Health Unit and an interprofessional, federally funded Family Health Clinic — still the only nurse managed clinic operated by a community college. n

lc.edu/discover

Missouri Baptist University (MBU) on the campus of Lewis & Clark Community College (LCCC) teaches, empowers and inspires students for service and lifelong learning.

MBU’s Regional Learning Center offers both select undergraduate and graduate degree programs on the beautiful and historic LCCC Godfrey campus. The MBU office, in stately Haskell Hall, enables meeting the needs of the students where

rate for up to three years of their bachelor’s program. The fourth year, students are granted a 59 percent tuition reduction from our main campus tuition schedule.

“One graduates with a bachelor’s from a private university at close to community college rates via this program,” notes Christine Corby, Office Manager of MBU’s Regional Learning Center @ LCCC. “Many of our students take that savings and earn their master’s degree.”

begin every eight weeks. Classes meet one night per week on the LCCC campus.

“Our location offers the special opportunity of a solid classroom education without traveling long distances each week, relocating or leaving your area employer,” shares Dr. Loftin C. Woodiel, Director of MBU’s Regional Learning Center @ LCCC.

What’s Kasasa®?

Principia College is a private, coeducational college located in Elsah. As the only college in the world where all students and faculty are Christian Scientists, Principia provides a liberal arts education to approximately 460 students from about 30 countries around the world. The 2,600-acre campus, designed by renowned architect Bernard Maybeck, was named a National Historic Landmark in 1993.

The College offers 25 undergraduate majors and numerous minors. It also provides extraordinary opportunities to study abroad. Approximately 60 percent of all Principia College students study in another country or participate in a field program somewhere in the United States. Recent study abroad trips have gone to Trinidad, France, Austria, the Czech Republic, Greece, Italy, England, Peru, India, Ireland, Finland, and Nepal.

The College offers both students and the wider community opportunities to hear noted speakers and performers throughout the year. In 2016, Henry M. Paulson Jr., former Secretary of the Treasury, came to campus. Principia College is also well-known for its solar car program. With a race team that includes members from a wide range of majors, Principia frequently places ahead of teams from renowned engineering schools. The College’s mediation team competes successfully as well, often earning awards. For two years running (2014 and 2015), the team took first place in Team Advocacy at the International Intercollegiate Mediation Tournament, and in 2016 they placed second in Team Mediation and competed in Scotland. Principia’s five institutes engage students in topics ranging from entrepreneurship to astrophysics.

Competing in the NCAA Division III, Principia College fields 17 varsity sports teams, one junior varsity team, and two intercollegiate club teams. In November 2017, Principia will host the NCAA D III Cross Country Championships. n

principia.edu

IUE’s 2,660-acre campus is home to more than 14,000 students from the surrounding communities, the nation and the world. The University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees in the arts, sciences, nursing, education, health, human behavior, business, engineering, pharmacy and dental medicine.

We invite you to visit campus and share in our vibrant community:

Music: Attend musical performances or enroll in the Suzuki or keyboard development program (siue.edu/ music)

Theater and Dance: All performances are open to the public (siue. edu/artsandsciences/ theater)

Arts and Issues

Series: An eclectic blend of speakers and performers (artsandissues.com)

Athletics: Purchase tickets to any of our varsity NCAA Division I athletic events. (siuecougars.com)

Running, Walking, Biking Trails: Nine bike trails on campus connect to the 100mile Madison County Transit trail system (siue.edu/campusrecreation/facilities)

Summer Camps: Art, dance, science and sports kids age 6-18 (siue.edu/summer)

Summer Classes: More than 700 summer classes (siue. edu/summer)

Math Homework Hotline: Call (618) 650-3072 from 6-10 p.m. Sunday to Thursday

Non-Credit Leisure Learning: Discover a new hobby or

brush up on a professional skill (siue.edu/educationaloutreach)

Attention and Behavior Clinic: ADHD and autism spectrum disorder assessments, and consultation for the management of inattentive, hyperactive and disruptive behavior (siue.edu/education/ psychology/abc)

Cougar Curriculum Center: Individualized reading and writing assessments and tutoring to children in grades 1-12 (siue.edu/education/litclinic)

Speech, Language and Hearing Center: Therapy for adults and children with various speech, language and hearing difficulties (siue.edu/ slh-center)

Weight Management Program: Program includes nutrition, physical activity and the emotional aspects of behavior change (siue.edu/wmc) n siue.edu

rbga continually progressing

If you’re not involved with the RiverBend Growth Association, WHY NOT? We’ve got great activities and events, we’re an excellent resource for all sorts of information, and we’re an extremely affordable way to promote your business.

One initiative the RBGA has

recently been involved with is the startup and early success of the Riverbend CEO Program. Currently in the second year, we’ve expanded to a third high school. This program affords the high school seniors a jump start on their eventual careers by visiting 40-50 businesses per year and hearing from 50-60 business professionals.

The class meets daily from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at a local business. The students work together on a class business the first semester and create their own business during the second semester. At the end of the year, their businesses are showcased at a trade show. The entire program is funded through the Riverbend Development Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Local businesses contribute to the Foundation through a three-year commitment.

Gordon Moore Park in Alton is undergoing a major renovation and facelift, and the RBGA and its staff is helping organize a Family Fun Day to garner attention and support to this economic engine in our community.

Networking lunches and

breakfasts are held in alternating months with a theme targeted to improve your business connections. Attendees hear from a speaker or participate in a Top of Mind exercise and enjoy a wonderful meal.

Business After Hours events are a casual and fun networking event with a relaxed atmosphere hosted by a local businesses where they have the opportunity to showcase their products and services.

We continue to work with our area businesses on their legislative issues and we work with the local municipalities to grow our local economy.

For more information about joining the RBGA, go to our website or call (618) 467-2280. n

While school districts across the state have been faced with significant challenges due to a lack of funding at the state and federal levels, Riverbend education leaders have developed an even stronger resolve to provide quality learning opportunities.

Bethalto School District 8 has proven a formidable leader in the past several years with its innovative Apple One-to-One laptop initiative, providing students with portable computers to assist with learning.

Roxana Community School District 1 has seen the construction of a new junior high school gym, high school tennis court renovations and concession stand, and more upgrades throughout its buildings.

Alton Community School District 11 unveiled an ambitious $3 million renovation project in 2017 involving the vacant Mark Twain Elementary School, with plans to create the district’s new Motivational Achievement Center.

Jersey Community School District 100, serving all of Jersey County including the village of Elsah and the city of Grafton, and East Alton Elementary School District 13 and Wood River-Hartford School District 15, serving the communities of Wood River, East Alton and Hartford, also have been working hard to protect and nurture the quality education our students deserve.

Alton’s four parochial schools include Marquette Catholic High School, St. Mary’s, Ss. Peter and Paul School, and Mississippi Valley Christian School, while Godfrey boasts Evangelical Elementary and St. Ambrose Catholic School. South Roxana offers Bethel Christian Academy. n

Established by the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George and now sponsored by the Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis, OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center has been rooted in the greater Alton community for 92 years.

The 203-bed health center offers a range of related health care services. Riverbend residents count on the compassion and quality care unique to OSF Saint Anthony’s, without traveling miles to St. Louis for care and treatment. Individuals are treated with the greatest care and love in a community that celebrates the Gift of Life.

The OSF Saint Anthony’s campus, near College Avenue and U.S. 67, features emergency services, stateof-the-art surgical suites, a gastrointestinal center, medical and surgical units, cardiology services, neurology, pulmonology, pain management, a birthing center and advanced diagnostic and imaging technology, highlighted by the accredited Breast Imaging Center of Excellence.

OSF Saint Anthony’s is recognized by The Joint Commission, in conjunction with The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, with an Advanced Certification for Primary Stroke Centers, meeting critical elements of performance to achieve long-term success in improving outcomes for stroke patients.

Emergency Services

Serving the Alton community with advanced technology and compassionate care,

Emergency Services at OSF Saint Anthony’s has been named a recipient of the Women’s Choice Award as America’s Best Hospitals for Emergency Care. In addition, the Emergency Services utilizes teleneurology for individuals presenting with stroke symptoms and includes immediate access to boardcertified, fellowship-trained neurologists via telemedicine — day and night.

Cancer Services

OSF HealthCare plans to start construction on a new cancer center located on the OSF Saint Anthony’s campus in 2018. For now, the Cancer Center of Excellence — the only local cancer facility in the area to receive the Outstanding Achievement Award from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer — is located on the OSF Saint Clare’s campus at 915 E. 5th St., Alton.

The Cancer Care Team has one mission in mind: To give

and more.

To further serve the Alton area, the OSF HealthCare Medical Group is opening an OSF PromptCare and primary care office in Godfrey, and moving Psychiatric Services, Outpatient Therapies and OSF Home Care Services to conveniently accessed locations in the Riverbend.

OSF Home Care offers home health and hospice services, administered by a trained multidisciplinary team of

In emergencies, every second counts — OSF Saint Anthony’s Emergency Department exceeds national benchmarks for arrival-to-treatment times.

Innovation

OSF Saint Anthony’s has also added telehealth services to the ICU and pharmacy. The telehealth services allow patients’ conditions and medications to be monitored remotely, helping with critical care treatment and ensuring accuracy of prescriptions.

And with a commitment to bring health care technological advances to this region with OSF MyChart, OSF Saint Anthony’s helps patients manage their health care online quickly and easily. Patients can schedule appointments, request prescription refills, review their health history and more. Visit osfmychart.org for more information.

patients the best care possible. From diagnosis to treatment, the experienced medical and radiation oncologists, specialists, nurses and patient navigators are dedicated to meeting that goal.

In addition, the specialists in medical oncology and hematology at OSF Saint Anthony’s Cancer Center of Excellence treat patients with anemia, leukemia, lymphomas and bleeding disorders, as well as benign and malignant tumors/masses.

Outpatient Services

The OSF HealthCare Medical Group has a team of more than 30 health care providers specializing in 15 areas, including family medicine, endocrinology, internal medicine, medical oncology and hematology, surgery, pain management, pediatrics, pulmonary, urology, women’s

clinicians, to patients who are home-bound as well.

With a medical staff of 250plus physicians, specialists and advanced practice providers, OSF Saint Anthony’s provides local access to health care for area residents. With physician offices conveniently located throughout the Riverbend, same-day primary care appointments are available.

For convenient nonemergency care, OSF OnCall provides virtual treatment options to residents of the Riverbend — no matter when they need it. With OSF OnCall, a health care professional is available by smartphone, tablet or computer 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Visit osfoncall.org for more information. n

osfsaintanthonys.org

ince 1937, Alton Memorial Hospital has cared for countless people in Alton and the surrounding communities.

Today, AMH is a full-service, acute-care hospital, accredited by the Joint Commission with approximately 900 employees and 206 beds serving patients in a five-county area.

Alton Memorial offers patients a variety of inpatient and outpatient services, including surgery services, medical imaging, interventional and diagnostic heart services, cancer care, digestive health services, physical therapy, rehabilitation, 24hour emergency care, and ambulance services. A new ambulance is added to the fleet each year thanks to money raised through the Alton Memorial Health Service Foundation’s popular Duck Pluckers Ball.

Alton Memorial has begun construction for a new Medical Office Building, which will be added to the Medical Office Building B that opened in 2011. The $8 million project will add 41,000 square feet of new office space (on two floors) to the campus. Upon completion, the new space is expected to accommodate offices for pediatrics, primary care, OB/GYN, internal medicine, psychiatry and an outpatient lab. The building is tentatively scheduled to open in the first half of 2018.

The Cancer Care Center has received a four-year accreditation of its radiation oncology services, making it the first center in Illinois to achieve that designation.

The center demonstrated compliance with the standards of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO)

Accreditation Program for Excellence (APEx).

Alton Memorial is now the only hospital in the area that uses digital tomosynthesis, which creates a three-dimensional picture of the breast using X-rays. 3D mammography is a revolutionary new screening and diagnostic breast imaging tool to improve the early detection of breast cancer. Images are displayed as a series of thin slices, providing doctors with a clearer view through overlapping breast tissue.

To underscore the hospital’s trust from the public, Alton Memorial won four prestigious honors at the 2017 PRC (Professional Research Consultants) National Excellence in Healthcare Conference.

The Digestive Health Center earned the Top Performer

Award, which recognizes service lines that score at or above the 100th percentile for Overall Quality of Care in PRC’s national client database for the prior calendar year.

PRC’s 5-Star Awards went to the Human Motion Institute for its Outpatient Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy services (the 10th year in a row that HMI has been so honored) and the Women’s Health and Childbirth Center for inpatient OB/GYN services. A four-star award went to the Emergency Department.

Service lines that score in the top 10 percent of the national client database for the prior calendar year earn 5-Star Awards. Service lines that score in the top 25 percent of the national client database for the prior calendar year earn 4-Star Awards. The awards

are based on the percentage of patients who rate the facility or unit “Excellent” for Overall Quality of Care questions.

Since the 1990s, Alton Memorial has been a member of BJC HealthCare, one of the nation’s largest health care organizations with annual net revenues of $3.2 billion and more than 26,000 employees in the greater St. Louis, Southern Illinois and mid-Missouri regions. BJC HealthCare serves patients and their families in urban, suburban and rural communities through its 13 hospitals and multiple community health locations. Construction has begun on an extension of Medical Office Building B on the Alton Memorial Hospital campus. n

altonmemorialhospital.org

The AMH Cancer Care Center staff includes (from left) Dr. Gregory Vlacich, Toni Brummett, Stacey Ballard, Barb Meyer, Sheri Ventimiglia, Mary Bayer and Lori Hasquin.

Atrue sense of exploration and discovery lingers in the air, enveloping you as you make your way through the Riverbend. You can almost feel the history that has been made here; you can certainly see its evidence.

Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas. Elijah Lovejoy and Robert Wadlow. Miles Davis and Lucas Pfeiffenberger. Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. The Mississippi River itself. They’ve all left their mark. How will you leave yours?

Maybe the lines you pen during your time here will follow along the banks of the Mississippi, taking in all that is offered at Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater and along the riverfront. Air Supply and Better Than Ezra have made memories with visitors from stage, as have the phenomenal jazz talents that jump, jive and wail right along with you during the annual Jazz and Wine Fest.

Perhaps you’ll redefine your dreams with a roll of the dice at Argosy Casino Alton, or by taking in the summer season at the Farmers and Artisans Market, one of our country’s longest-running markets, hosted on the casino grounds. And just within a few minutes of the beautiful aesthetic of the iconic Clark Bridge that connects us to the west, there is also plenty to see and do in Alton’s downtown district.

If your mind, and your feet, choose to meander down the road a bit from Alton’s riverfront, you can shape the stories you’ll tell by exploring the stacks at Hayner Library, with a downtown genealogy branch dedicated to the rich history of the

region. You can learn even more about local legends at the Alton Museum of History and Art on the historic former Shurtleff College campus, now the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Dental Medicine.

Along Alton’s Broadway corridor, you can explore the many one-of-a-kind antique, food and beverage, and retail shopping venues. A cairn along your cultural journey that is a must-see is Jacoby Arts Center. And there’s even more tales to uncover at the Historic Museum of Torture Devices.

Travel a few blocks north off Broadway and you can break free as only a pirate would at the new Alton Escape Room; a short trip east will take you to the Army Corps of Engineers’ Melvin Price Locks and Dam No. 26 and its National Great Rivers Museum. You might even choose to begin your arrival into the Riverbend to start that first chapter aboard one of Amtrak’s new high-speed rail trains, pulling into the new multimodal transportation hub at the heart of our largest retail district.

Perhaps your story’s chapter will be penned from the top of the Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower in Hartford or from the grounds once traveled by famed Westward Expansion explorers Lewis and Clark at the state historic site. There’s also the new East Alton History Museum and the Wood River History Museum to further feed your imagination.

For genuine family fun, you might take in the annual homecoming weekends in Bethalto and South Roxana — many a

legend has started there. For a beautifully natural experience, you might check out one of the Riverbend’s best-kept secrets — the Bethalto arboretum — a communitybuilt and supported path that wanders away from a gazebo that hosts live musical performances each summer and through tree-lined scenery.

The village of Godfrey offers its own spin for your life’s story. Godfrey offers wonderful places of respite and inspiration, such as The Nature Institute as well as the historic grounds of Lewis and Clark Community College. Glazebrook Park, which provides the home of the Great Godfrey Maze each fall, is another gem the whole family can enjoy.

You won’t want to publish this chapter of your story without taking a drive up the Great River Road. From Alton to Grafton, this is one sight you won’t soon forget. In the heat of the summer, Raging Rivers WaterPark is a must-stop. The historic Chautauqua and Elsah villages, just a short detour off the Great River Road, are also must-stops while making your way toward Grafton.

And once you arrive in Grafton, you’ll be able to enjoy all the distinctive shops and sights along Main Street and perhaps even take in the stunning fall color at one of Grafton’s wineries while staying at oneof-a-kind lodging options such as Tara Point Inn or Pere Marquette State Park and Lodge.

History has indeed been made here, and new stories are written every day. How will you make your mark on the Riverbend? n

Patrons enjoy the outdoor patio at The Loading Dock in Grafton.

SOLID FOUNDATIONS STARS on the rise

The local area is currently experiencing a surge in new business ideas and burgeoning entrepreneurs — something that would not be possible without the solid infrastructure of seasoned business leaders, laying the groundwork with strong work ethics and a

never-say-die attitude. As our region continues to grow and benefit as a result, the RiverBend Growth Association would like to honor and spotlight a few of our ambitious mainstays ... as well as some of our budding leaders of tomorrow.

Continued through Page 34

Illinois American Water is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable water and/ or wastewater services to approximately 1.3 million people. We are proud to have provided service to our neighbors for over a century.

Our commitment includes 24/7 monitoring, testing and continued investment – $70 to $100 million annually – to ensure water service for homes, businesses, public health and fire protection.

years

the pulse of a community

By Frank Prager

When TheBANK of Edwardsville was founded, Andrew Johnson (Abraham Lincoln’s successor) was president, the telephone would not be invented for another eight years and the light bulb was still eleven years away.

Founded in 1868 by Edward M. West and his son-in-law,

Civil War veteran Maj. William R. Prickett, the bank not only survived but prospered over a period which included major world wars as well as the greatest economic collapse in American history during the Great Depression.

On Jan. 1, 2018, TheBANK of Edwardsville will observe its 150th anniversary. Senior Vice President of Marketing Grady

Ambuel says the institution continues to grow and prosper thanks to its community focus and ongoing dedication to leading the industry in technology and innovation.

“Technology has changed immensely and we have always been on the forefront,” Ambuel says.

He points out in 1960 the bank had a sidewalk teller with

whom customers could walk up and do business. It also had a time-and-temperature sign on its building in downtown Edwardsville.

“That might not seem remarkable now, but at the time we were the only bank that offered those type of features,” he explains.

He points out that the bank was the first in the area to offer

TheBANK of Edwardsville | SOLID FOUNDATIONS

automatic teller machines and when its new main location opened in 1972, the first to offer five lanes of drive-up service.

“We were the first in the state to offer a driveup ATM, the first in the area to provide banking by phone and the first to offer online banking,” Ambuel says. “We’ve now advanced to remote capture, where customers can deposit checks via a mobile app by simply taking a picture.”

Ambuel says the bank’s leading role in technology and services has resulted in substantial growth over the past 30 years.

“In the 1980s, we had one main banking location and the Montclair location drive-up,” he says.

Today, the bank comprises 21 locations throughout the St. Louis metro area.

It has assets of $1.7 billion, employs 375 banking personnel and serves more than 56,000 customers. Ambuel says the institution takes justifiable pride in its history and educates all new employees about its legacy as part of their new-hire training.

He says the bank offers everything customers need for themselves, their businesses and their retirement.

“In addition to personal banking, we offer wealth management, retirement planning and retirement plans for businesses as well as commercial, mortgage and auto loans,” he says.

Ambuel says the bank has always had a strong focus on community involvement. He explains that focus continues today and is reflected by employees’ activity in civic events.

“Some institutions might write a check,” he says. “But we’re there. People think of us as much as a civic organization as a bank.”

The bank earned a 2016 Community Commitment Award from the American Bankers Association

Foundation for its Fairmont City Center. The center, which opened in November 2015, is the first fullservice, fully bilingual banking center in the St. Louis metro area.

In 2017, it also won an Arcus Award for Achievement Inclusion and Talent Attraction from the St. Louis Regional Chamber of Commerce. The award honors the institution for providing leadership through the creation of a program that promotes a diverse and global workforce and increases opportunities for businesses and individuals.

A piece of the terra cotta from the five-story bank building that housed banking operations from 1914 until 1972 watches over the hallway of the current Vandalia Street location. Ambuel says the terra cotta reminds both customers and employees of TheBANK of Edwardsville’s long legacy and its stability in the past and future. n

4thebank.com

The bank operated out of its five-story downtown location from 1914 until its present-day Vandalia Street location opened in 1972.

Brian Campbell

Carolyn MacAfee

Mike Vello

Tammy Smith

Charles Brake

Stephanie Elliott

David Boulds

Brant Walker, Mayor Aldermen

100 years

still going strong

By Melissa Meske

In 1917, Roxana Petroleum Co. built Wood River Refinery.

Production officially began in the following year as the first crude oil flowed into the plant. As the company celebrates its 100-year anniversary, it also celebrates a century of change, growth and a steadfast commitment to community.

Located in Roxana and jointly owned by Phillips 66 and Cenovus Energy through the WRB Refining partnership, the Wood River Refinery of today is operated by Phillips 66. A 24hour operation, the facility is the 14th-largest refinery in the United States.

Employing nearly 900 direct employees, the refinery also works with an average of more than 400 contract employees every day. More than 1,300 retirees continue to live in the communities that neighbor the refinery. It is a key employer and community partner. In its role as a community leader and a good neighbor, the refinery donates more than $300,000 each year to local organizations. “Throughout the years, the refinery has made monetary contributions to charities throughout the region,” says Megan Allen, the refinery’s community affairs coordinator. “Just in the last two decades, the

A 1949 aerial shot of the refinery.

This photo shows the refinery in 1920.

Photos provided by Wood River Refinery

refinery has contributed about $10 million to projects and organizations which enhance the community.”

Funded projects have included new tornado siren systems for the Hartford, Roxana, South Roxana, and Wood River communities; a walking path at Wood River’s Belk Park; funding a portion of the Roxana High School Commons; funding energy efficiency improvements in Hartford, Roxana, and South Roxana; supporting the development of a bike path in Wood River Township, being an early partner with Hartford’s Confluence Tower, helping establish and initially fund the Roxana Schools Foundation, “and so much more,” Allen adds.

Giving back to the community doesn’t stop with the company.

“It transcends down through our generous employees as well,” Allen says. “The refinery has long been a partner in the United Way campaigns. Our employees continue to step up each year through good and bad times and donate funds so that the many organizations in our community can continue with their beneficial programming. Just since 1996, the refinery employee campaign has raised more than $5.1 million.”

Four local high school graduates were awarded a

$16,000 college scholarship from the Phillips 66 Dependent Scholarship Program in July 2017. The competitive program awards outstanding college-bound students whose parents work for Phillips 66 or one of its subsidiaries. The awards are based on academic excellence, community service, and financial need. Annually, the program awards multiple four-year scholarships for higher education.

So why did the refinery first call itself the Roxana Petroleum Company? Melissa Erker, director government and community relations at Wood River Refinery, provides the following explanation:

“The Roxana Petroleum Company, which was part of Royal Dutch Shell, was named by the wife of the refinery’s first business manager — Marcus Abrahams. Mrs. Abrahams picked ‘Roxana’ because it had been the name of Alexander the Great’s wife. The name

‘Roxana’ also means ‘dawn,’ ‘bright’ or ‘little star.’

Over the years, top-level ownership has prompted slight changes in the local plant’s name, but the municipal indicator of Wood River has always stuck, Erker said. But because of its name, visitors sometimes think it is physically located in Wood River. The refinery is located in the village of Roxana, however, at 900 S. Central Ave. The village of Roxana did not incorporate until 1921 and took its name from the refinery.

To learn more about the company and its 100-year history, you can visit the Wood River Refinery History Museum, run by local retirees and volunteers. Located in front of the refinery on Illinois 111 in Wood River, there are three buildings in the museum complex, so plan on spending some time. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays. n

wrrmuseum.org phillips66.com

Wood River Refinery • All 1 bedroom • Maintenance free • Weekly social activities • Conveniently located near the Beltline shopping and senior center • 62 years of age or older or disabled • Rent = income based/Section 8

SENIOR CITIZEN APARTMENT COMPLEX Hillcrest Apartments is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Managed By: Bay West Residential LLC

SW Illinois Find Your Opportunity at SCORE SCORE helps small businesses succeed every day by providing free business mentoring, local workshops and online expert resources. Find out how at www.swillinois.score.org or call 618-467-2280

BUILD • GROW • THRIVE • VOLUNTEER 17 C urrents 2018

SOLID FOUNDATIONS |

a can-do attitude

By David Colburn

Beverly Farm Foundation celebrated a milestone Sept. 1 — 120 years of serving the Riverbend.

The foundation held a large-scale picnic lunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., complete with Carver’s barbecue, desserts prepared by the facility’s own Busy Bee Bakery, a donation of North Star ice cream treats from Ice Cream Specialties Inc., and drink donations provided by Pepsi.

With roughly 200 in attendance, the management team served the meals to the employees and thanked them for their dedication and hard work.

“It was wonderful to see smiles and stories told of Beverly Farm from years past,” Director of Marketing and Communications Cody Hinkle says.

Hinkle has worked for Beverly Farm for eight years but has fond memories of visiting the petting zoo as a child and utilizing the equestrian center throughout the years.

“When I began my career here, it was a lifechanging experience,” she says. “Working with the individuals we serve and their families is truly like working with your own family each day.

“There are hard-working people that have worked at Beverly Farm for 25, 30, 35-plus years — we also have family members that have worked here for generations. It’s very much a close-knit environment.”

Beverly Farm traces its history back to 1897, when Dr. William H.C. Smith and his wife, Elizabeth, found their ideal domain in present-day Godfrey. The Smiths were determined to find a tract of land in which they could establish a fundamentally different approach to caring for people who live with developmental disabilities.

The Smiths’ ambition was radical for its time. Beverly Farm — named in honor of Dr. Smith’s birthplace in Beverly, Mass. — offered a caring home, exceptional socialization, proper medical care, a healthy diet, physical exercise, education,

and recreational activities for its residents at 6301 Humbert Road in Godfrey.

Dr. Smith and his wife began their journey quietly, with two residents and two buildings at its start, but their uncompromising vision drives both the mission and identity of Beverly Farm to this day.

Smith’s approach gathered notoriety at the 1904 World’s Fair but has since been recognized for the innovative spirit that echoes through the progressive programs offered by the facility more than a century later.

In 1979, Beverly Farm narrowed its focus to providing services for adults only and has since served as a comfortable and active home for those living with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

With hundreds of residents and staff members, as well as countless volunteers, Beverly Farm has made its mark on the community at large: participating in the Illinois Division of the Special Olympics, picking up trash along the side of Humbert Road, shredding paper and donating it to 5As nonprofit animal shelter, and ringing bells for the Salvation Army during the holidays are but a few of the ways the facility’s residents shine throughout the year.

Hinkle explains that Beverly Farm serves not only the Riverbend, but families and friends from across 48 states.

“Many people travel across the country for the services we provide,” she says.

“We hope that we not only continue to be a leader in these services, but also enrich our community as people travel to Godfrey and learn about the Riverbend area.”

Hinkle has nothing but kind words for the community partners that have embraced Beverly Farm for the past 120 years.

“We look forward to celebrating 120 more with them,” she says. n

Beverly Farm resident Albert is all smiles upon seeing American miniature horses Bailey and Jasper in one of the therapy rooms during an event in July 2015.

A FAMILY TRADITION

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50 years

celebrating positive impacts

By Louise Jett

For nearly 50 years, the Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto (BGCB) has created a positive place where kids can learn skills, make connections and have fun, and Executive Director Kathleen Wilson has been there since the beginning.

Wilson’s parents, Meredith and Beverly Wilson, were among the founding organizers who formed the club in 1968. The organization had 25 youth members in its first year. “Their goal was to keep kids

off the street and their main programming revolved around sports and recreation,” Wilson says.

At the time, BGCB was a part of the Boys Club of America, and her brother was a member. While she was in college, Wilson worked as a part-time secretary for Dan Smith, the only other executive director to serve the organization, and before becoming executive director, she sat on the BGCB Alumni Board.

“It does give me perspective,” she says. “We were always

involved with the club. My parents were very dedicated. We got to go out and watch the games and attend teen dances there.”

Eventually, the Board of Directors saw a need to serve girls also, and in 1989 the club became the Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto. In 1994, the board founded the Boys & Girls Club in Alton. That site has branched off on its own and now operates independently.

Now, BGCB serves approximately 1,500 members from Bethalto and 15

surrounding communities. The board recognized a need for services in neighboring communities and opened sites at East Alton Middle School and Lovejoy School in Brooklyn.

“We still have caring adults that volunteer their time to serve as board members and coaches,” Wilson says. “Kids still have problems like they did in 1968, but they have gone from alcohol and pot to heroin, from parties to raves, with cellphones and cars. The Boys & Girls Club fills the void. We ask about school and homework and listen to problems. We offer opportunities for kids to be responsible and to give back through community service projects.”

The Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto is a United Way member agency that partners with the school districts to provide afterschool programming and summer camp activities.

At the Bethalto site, the average daily attendance in the summer of 2017 was more than 100, and during the 2016-2017 school year, attendance averaged 200 daily.

“Business is booming as we see an increased need for after school programs and a safe, affordable place for kids to go,” Wilson said. “Our future is bright because our biggest asset remains the same, dedicated adults who care about our kids.”

Volunteers Coral and Don Lipe provided weekly cooking classes during the 2017 summer camp.

“We are thrilled to be able

Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto Summer Camp attendees participate in a water race.

to share our love of cooking while educating these young people on healthy eating habits,” C. Lipe says.

Volunteers from the Glen Carbon Lowe’s recently tackled multiple projects, including sprucing up the bathrooms, building shelves for book bags and racks for coats, and creating a planter in front of the building.

“We always need volunteers,” Wilson says. “We are actively looking for mentors. To make a commitment to come to the club and actually meet with one or more child per week, that’s a big commitment.”

Jake Lively is one of those volunteer mentors who offer much-needed guidance and emotional support. “I feel like I can be there for some of these kids who really don’t have someone to talk to. I get as much out of being a mentor as I give to them.”

Those interested in making a

positive impact in young people’s lives can apply to be a mentor by emailing Wilson at kwilsonbgcb@sbcglobal.net n

facebook.com/bgcbethaltoIL

Volunteers from the Glen Carbon Lowe’s take a break from volunteer work to pose for a photo.

Right, children prepare chicken quesadillas during the Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto Summer Camp earlier this year.

Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto SOLID FOUNDATIONS |

50 years

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By Bill Roseberry

Roberts Motors in Alton is celebrating 50 years of business.

The long-tenured car dealership has seen lots of changes over the years, but has stuck to its mantra of outstanding service to continue its longstanding resumé of success.

Part of that success is because Roberts takes care of its employees and sustains a long-tenured staff customers are familiar with.

“I think a lot of it comes down to the employees and the people that have worked here over the years,” general manager John Roberts says. “There are a lot of people that have been here a long time. We had a picnic this year and we had a guy who was employed by us for 42 years. I have several who

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a golden jubilee

have been employed here over 30 years, including myself, and my dad (Sam Roberts) has been here since 1966.

“Having the right people here working for you and understanding how we want to handle things, which is take care of the customer and treat them the way they should be treated. It keeps them coming back.”

With the rise of the internet, face-to-face interaction with customers has diminished. Because of that, Roberts has secured a strong online presence to remain relevant.

“If you look at what has changed, it’s the way people buy cars,” Roberts says. “It’s changed drastically. By average a customer would visit four or five dealerships before making a decision to purchase and now it’s down to one point something, depending on what you read. A lot more of the work now is done up front

before you see the customer, where before they would walk in and you’d take good care of them and now that’s done online so you don’t get that opportunity for that initial interaction like you used to.”

Utilizing social media has been key for the dealership. Roberts uses Facebook to post videos and customer testimonials to convey its message of quality service and going the extra mile.

“We’re moving to more customer experience stuff online,” Roberts says.

Roberts celebrated its 50 years of service in April with a luncheon for its employees and Ford Motor Co. awarded the dealership a plaque to represent the two companies’ long relationship.

In July, the 40th annual Southern Illinois Mustang Association car show was housed at Roberts. That relationship is also dear to the dealership and helped showcase its anniversary.

John Roberts admitted he and his father, president Sam Roberts, hold a special place in their hearts for Mustangs.

“I’m probably going to be biased, but Mustangs have always been something that have been a mainstay with us,” Roberts says. “Having grown up around it, the different years of the Mustangs, there is always something there that’s exciting.

“I remember the 1994 Indy pace car very well because I sold that car, which was neat. I

got to see one a couple weeks ago that brought back some good memories.”

Roberts continues to be a stalwart in the region in Mustang sales and that’s also something that makes Roberts proud.

“We’ve always been one of the top Mustang dealers in our region and I tend to relate that partly to the relationship with the Southern Illinois Mustang Association. It helps build the enthusiasm here with our employees and of course the show and the show members. When people think of Mustangs, hopefully they think of Roberts. I do think that’s helped with the ability to claim one of the top dealers in the region for the Mustang.

“That’s nice because it gets us more of the specialty products like the Shelbys to sell.” n

robertsmotors.com

Photos provided by Roberts Motors

sweet and savory

Cookie Factory — a bridge between classic leadership and the next generation

By Louise Jett

For nearly 40 years, Riverbend residents have enjoyed oversized, decorated cookies from Cookie Factory Bakery and Café at birthdays, graduations and other parties. But the café has also grown to include sandwiches, soups and salads.

“We make changes all the time. It seems like every five years we change our name,” owner Linda McCormick says, laughing. “We started with cookies, brownies and soda, and we’ve added a lot of pastries and other items. For a small store, we have a lot to offer.”

McCormick began working at the Cookie Factory the year it opened in 1978. She enjoyed serving up sweets in the Alton Square Mall so much she bought the store in 1979.

“I thought that the store

could be successful if it were run properly,” McCormick said. “So I just did it, and then business started to pick up.”

Her daughter, Jennifer Camerer, was only five years old when McCormick bought the store, and she still works there every Valentine’s Day.

“I literally grew up there, and I loved it,” Camerer says. “Spending so much of my life there not only taught me how to bake and decorate cookies, but about life in general. It taught me what it feels like to work hard for something you love and believe in.”

McCormick credits the longevity and success of her business to hard work, good employees, and effective budgeting.

“I haven’t had any debt for about 18 years,” McCormick says. “With debt, it is harder. And your employees matter so much. Over the years, we have had some good ones.”

She was honored when the RiverBend Growth Association named the Cookie Factory the Small Business of the Month for July 2017.

“I was surprised, and we were just so happy to be honored like that,” she says. “When the employees all came in for the photo, it was kind of an emotional time. We work hard and try as hard as we can to be a good store. It was awesome to be recognized for that.”

The Cookie Factory Bakery and Café is open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. The restaurant offers delivery for an average charge of $5.

“This was the first job I ever had, and I have been here a long time,” she says. “I’m optimistic about the future of the Alton Square Mall and glad to call it my home. I want to thank my customers for all their support. We couldn’t have made it 38 years without them.” n facebook.com/cookiefactoryalton

The McCormick family (from left) Godfrey Mayor Mike McCormick, Lexi Camerer, Brianna Camerer, Linda McCormick and Jennifer Camerer, stands in front of Cookie Factory Bakery and Café.

delivers a career that

By Frank Prager

Alton resident CJ Nasello has a noteworthy track record in the region.

He distinguished himself as an athlete, participating on top-tier teams while in school and traveling to England to play with the elite Scott Gallagher soccer club. He is a member of the RiverBend Growth Association and has been involved in community and fundraising events with that organization. He runs a growing errand and delivery service as a local business entrepreneur.

And at the age of 18, Nasello is just getting started. He talks about what has led him to this point but more importantly, what he sees as his vision for the future of the Alton area and his part to contribute.

“There is a lot of untapped potential in the Alton area,” he says. “Our riverfront is unique and offers opportunity for growth unavailable to other cities.”

Nasello graduated from Alton High School in May 2017 with scholastic honors and attends Lewis and Clark Community College in preparation for earning a business degree. Originally planning on a career practicing law, he says his interests

changed the more he was exposed to the area’s business environment.

From an early age, his drive and initiative were also demonstrated in the area of sports. A standout soccer player throughout his entire academic career, he started playing the game at the age of two. He played on the varsity soccer team in his freshman year of high school and was captain of the team during his senior year.

In addition to traveling abroad to play, Nasello notes playing in Fire and Ice soccer club All-Star games and scoring during regional competition this year as highlights of his playing time.

During high school, he participated in the Riverbend CEO program, which teaches students how to be business owners and entrepreneurs. Nasello says Steve Thompson was his mentor and credits him with much of the practical knowledge he has learned about running a business.

Nasello says he was also influenced by his father and his grandfather, who were both involved in local businesses. He says the two were instrumental in area soccer programs and some of his fondest

memories are of the soccer events he attended with them.

Nasello started his own business in January 2017. Nasello’s Errand and Delivery Service serves local restaurants and other businesses by providing errand services. He got the idea after running errands for his brother and seeing the need for the service in the community.

“After the ice storm this year, I posted information about the business on Facebook and found it really met a need in the area,” he says.

Nasello says the business is growing and he has made deliveries as far away as Lake of the Ozarks.

In addition to business customers, the service can help disabled individuals, senior citizens or anyone who has trouble getting out to shop or do other tasks.

“We tend to be less expensive than some of the other services available and are just as fast,” he says.

Nasello joined the RBGA this year and is the organization’s youngest member. He

was involved in a family fun day sponsored by the organization earlier this year as well as a charity Wiffle ball tournament.

He explains he worked on the mayor’s campaign earlier this year and is very interested in local government and the possibilities for the city.

Nasello has done extensive research on how other communities like San Antonio, Texas, and Naperville, Ill., have leveraged their riverfront areas to grow revenue for their cities. He says he feels the riverfront offers similar potential for the Alton area.

“There is potential for a boardwalk, shops, office buildings, coffee shops, bars and more,” he points out. He says he feels strongly the riverfront offers opportunities to Alton unavailable to other area municipalities.

Nasello says he intends to work hard through the RBGA and his business connections to help the Alton area realize the possibilities that lie ahead. n

entrée entrepreneur

By Melissa Meske

At age 29, Bluff City Grill owner Cathy Gross has already experienced what it’s like to be a highly successful entrepreneur. And while she admits she’s made many sacrifices when it comes to a personal and social life, she says she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I’ve given up a lot, but it’s been fun,” Gross says. “I’ve been in the business, surrounded by it, since I was a kid. I knew at 13 that I wanted to be in business. My schoolmates back then thought I was crazy.”

You could say it was a given, even genetic, that Gross would end up running her own business — and that it would be successful.

“My family has always been in business,” she says. “My grandparents owned a pharmacy in Brighton, and my uncle, Dave Wickenhauser, owned the former Wick’s Lounge in Godfrey.”

Gross began working in the industry by spending 10 years at Godfrey establishment Roper’s Regal Beagle, the home of her uncle’s former venue. She started Bluff City Grill because she wanted to run a business herself.

“I liked my job, but I wanted more,” Gross explains. “So I put together a business plan, presented it to the bank, and it was approved. That’s how it all began.”

Owning a successful restaurant and bar hasn’t always come easy for Gross.

“Being successful in my 20s, it’s been different — overwhelming sometimes,” she says. “It’s been a big adjustment in many ways, but it has definitely been worth it.”

What started out in a smaller venue on Piasa Street in December 2013 outgrew its potential in less than three years. Gross started looking around for a larger facility that could meet all the needs of her customers and allow her to offer even more.

Gross and her staff opened the doors on a much larger location in October 2016 at the site of the former Eagles Lodge on East Broadway in Alton.

One of the biggest challenges along the way, Gross notes, came when she decided to serve as her own general contractor for the new location.

“Construction was the biggest challenge,” she says. “The restaurant was still open on Piasa Street while the new site was being renovated. I never imagined I’d know what I know how to do now.

“I couldn’t do any of this without the incredible support I have from my family and friends, my staff, and from the community,” she says. “A lot of my family work here, helping me to succeed.

“I have a part now in reviving the Broadway corridor, and Alton in general, and I enjoy that, too,” she says. “I try to do whatever I can to help out and to improve the community. My words of wisdom to others who are thinking about opening a restaurant: you have to know

all the positions. Don’t expect your staff to do what you can’t or won’t do.”

And for anyone in pursuit of a dream, no matter their age, Gross advises, “Don’t let people discourage you; you have to be ready to give it your all.”

Bluff City Grill, 424 E. Broadway in Alton, is just minutes from the Clark Bridge and Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater. Offering a diverse menu, there’s also a relaxing lounge and sports bar and a dining room that is perfect for date night or a family meal. The upper-level banquet hall can accommodate more than 400 guests, and the two-story parking garage with additional on-street parking helps to ensure plenty of space. n

bluffcitygrillalton.com

The specialist

By Bill Roseberry

Dr. Adam Snyder provides a valuable service to the Riverbend, and he’s been doing it successfully over the last three years.

Snyder, a 1998 Alton High graduate, runs Riverbend Pediatric Dentistry at 705 Kansas St. in Bethalto. The practice specializes in dentistry services for children.

“We deal with anything that has to do with kids,” he says. “We see a lot of patients who are young and their parents are wanting to get them in for that first checkup and establish a dental home. I recommend seeing kids at one. That’s what the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends, too. So we see a lot of youngsters and I lead them through the dental experience six months at a time.”

Snyder’s education started at Lewis and Clark Community College, continued at Saint Louis University to finish his undergraduate degree, and moved to the SIUE School of Dental Medicine for his dentistry degree.

After four years of general practice, he decided to focus on pediatric dentistry, which took him to the University of Louisville to receive the specialization he needed.

“I graduated from dental school just thinking that I was going to do general dentistry and would see kids as part of my general practice, but as I got into practice I took a part-time job at a clinic in St. Louis that was nothing but kids,” he says. “I’d say 95 percent of my patients were under the age of 10, and that’s where I got this

second calling to go back to school and get more training.”

His specialized training gave him experience in behavior management, hospital dentistry and the treatment of pediatric dental patients under general anesthesia, oral sedation, dental trauma, comprehensive dental care for the pediatric patient, growth and development and interceptive orthodontics and treatment of patients with special health care needs.

Now he just wants to continue that great specialty service in the area he calls home.

“Through all my experiences, I just fell upon something, lucky for me, I love what I do,” Snyder says. “I had a chance to get that extra education, that advanced training, and here I am. That good quality care we’ve provided has done good for us to spread the word. The goal is to keep on growing so we can provide care to every kiddo in this Riverbend area.” n

riverbendpediatricdentistry.com

"We see a lot of youngsters and I lead them through the dental experience six months at a time.”

By David Colburn

The past three years have taught Brandie DeSherlia, assistant chief operating manager of Alton Sports Tap, a thing or two about business. With a background in advertising, sales, and a few early bartending gigs in Grafton, DeSherlia joined the restaurant and sports bar in

December 2014. Without a shred of doubt, she says the primary focus rests on what customers want.

“We’ve added a lot, such as daily specials, and the business has grown tremendously over the past few years,” DeSherlia says. “We even recently held our first golf tournament.”

Even with Alton Sports Tap’s success, DeSherlia says the job isn’t without its challenges.

“The restaurant industry is a hard industry, and it can get difficult at times to keep up with new trends and foods to keep the business going,” she says.

DeSherlia considers it as a small price to pay for the reward of longtime and brand-new customers dropping in for one of the four weekly drink specials or a chance to try the best wings in Madison County. “I love meeting new people, seeing familiar faces, and hearing about the good things we’re doing for Sports Tap,” DeSherlia says.

With three strong years

through her management, DeSherlia would like to see Alton Sports Tap continue to grow, with more food choices, daily specials, events for the community, and an embrace of new technology.

“We hope to take togo orders through the website in the near future, and we hope to serve the community for many more years,” she says.

DeSherlia also has advice for any and all young entrepreneurs in the Alton area: “Never give up on your dream. You’re going to face challenges and stress along the way, but when you see the rewards of your struggle, it will be well worth it.” n

altonsportstap.com

setting a chilly course

By Melissa Meske

Before it was Shivers Frozen Custard, it was Fritz’s, and it was there where a 16-year-old young man first discovered his passion, envisioning what would become his reality just a few years later.

Brian Morris, a 2007 Alton High School graduate, started working at the frozen custard stand while still in high school. It became Shivers in 2008, and Morris took over leadership in 2012.

“It was a great opportunity, and it was something I loved and was passionate about,” Morris says. “It was a no-brainer. When Doyle presented me with the chance, I took a leap of faith.”

Doyle Beck, Godfrey Little Caesar’s owner, purchased the frozen custard stand, located at 3318 Godfrey Road, in 2008.

Morris says the most significant challenge he has faced has been reshaping the store’s identity into the Shivers brand.

“There really wasn’t a unique identity for the store, and I wanted to create something relatable,” Morris says.

The identity has since been “penguinized,” and it’s working.

The greatest success, Morris says, comes from within his 38 employees. Six are full time; none work less than 25 hours a week. They are high school and college students.

“Instead of just employing them, I help mold them into young adults who are prepared for what might lie ahead,” he says. “This has paid off so well. Our biggest compliments come from customers who are impressed by our level of care.”

One of the newest changes at Shivers is Caffe Italiano. Serving up hot and cold coffees and teas all day long, Caffe Italiano also has an assortment of baked goods on the menu.

“Our frozen custard and Caffe Italiano menus are ‘polar opposites,’ but they partner well,” Morris says. “It’s been fun meshing them together and giving our customers a truly unique experience.”

Catering is another recent addition. Shivers is closed four days a year — Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and postChristmas Day. n

shiversfrozencustard.com

By David Colburn

For Heinz Peter Jr., owner and operator of Godfrey’s Lockhaven Golf Club, golf is about more than what takes place on the green; it’s about what the club means to the area.

Opening a little under three months ago, Lockhaven has given Peter an environment to exercise his business background as well as a course in golf

an ambitious new start

education. Peter attended Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he studied economics and finance, and also has experience in sales, day-trading in the stock market and business development.

Finding success with Lockhaven has been about a lot more than Peter’s credentials, however.

“You have to be good at thinking on your

feet and willing to learn new things,” he says.

With a passionate team of advisers and an open mind to early criticism, Peter’s proud to say that the venture has evolved from the “wild west” of the first day to an atmosphere of solid community support.

“In time, we’d like to branch out and offer an area for swimming, a place for dinner and to ultimately restore Lockhaven’s status on the River Road,” Peter says.

Peter’s focus on customer service is a major contributing factor to Lockhaven’s current success. “Customer service is one thing that any business can always improve and it pays off more than anything else.”

This includes keeping things as simple and convenient as possible and asking for customer feedback to make constant improvements. Peter says he believes any young entrepreneur can benefit from these techniques.

“Entrepreneurs want to serve people and make the experience for customers as comfortable as possible,” he says. “Focus on the customer’s reaction, ask them how you’re doing, let any criticism roll off of you, listen and do better.” n

golfatlockhaven.com

“In time, we’d like to branch out and offer an area for swimming, a place for dinner and to ultimately restore Lockhaven’s status on the River Road.”

The path to financial freedom

The road to helping his neighbors with important financial decisions began for Robert Diaz at the age of 23, and although that road took him out of the area for a while, it eventually wound its way back home.

Facing a solid foundation

Founding her dream endeavor, Brush Hair + Makeup in August 2016, 26-year-old Elizabeth Werts says making her mark in the Godfrey area as an entrepreneur is in her blood.

“The Riverbend has always been my home,” she says. “My family has owned a business in the area for more than 60 years. I wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps in owning my own business and being a part of the community.”

In addition to offering salon services such as cuts, styles, coloring, makeovers and more, Werts and her team also provide wedding and special occasion packages.

The ambitious enterprise, which includes an elaborately designed salon location, has truly been a labor of love.

“We have been successful because all of our stylists go the extra mile. We work long extra hours to accommodate our clients, teach classes on new trends and techniques and try to make everyone that walks through our doors happy.

“I always dreamed of having a cute and trendy go-to salon in the area that offered a variety of services and catered to special events such as weddings and dances,” Werts says. n

brush618.com

“After a few years of training under several great advisers and building my own practice, I saw my family growing … and really felt the pull to be closer to family and friends,” Diaz says. “What has always made Alton ‘home’ is that a majority of my family and friends are here. I was raised in this area, met my closest friends here, met my wife here, and got married here — this area is very important to me for those reasons.” In 2008, Diaz graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in economics and worked for several years in the Quad Cities area before joining the Edward Jones firm on Market Street in Alton 6 years ago.

“I saw family and friends forced to make difficult

decisions due to the economy at the time, (and) I felt like I had the tools to help folks avoid the same mistakes down the road,” he said. “I’ve always felt that, even on the smallest scale, good financial decisions compounded over a long time can make a big difference.”

Crediting “persistence and a strong belief in the work” for his success (and the success of the company as a whole), Diaz says he and office administrator, Jeni, try to always go above and beyond the scope of the traditional investment manager.

“On top of helping with some of the more basic stuff like buying a car, refinancing a home, etc., we try to be there to make a difference when families need it most, whether that is poor health or life changes such as death or divorce.

“Looking back on close to 10 years in this business makes me very happy and excited for the next 10 (or 30) years!” n

edwardjones.com/robert-diaz2

Photo by Emily Dobson

Virginia often visited friends here before she moved to The United Methodist Village, so she already knew how easy living in our community can be.

dining room. Scheduled transportation and onsite assistance are available as well, should you ever need them.

Our personalized service gives you more time to enjoy life—and with all of the social and recreational opportunities we offer, you might even discover

“The house was getting to be too much. Now I can focus more on taking care of myself. I also love the convenience of having the dining room right downstairs from my apartment.”

Forget about time-consuming chores like housekeeping, home repairs and yard work. You don’t even have to cook—delicious meals are available in our dining room. Scheduled transportation and onsite assistance are available as well, should you ever

As a resident of our community, you too can have a more leisurely lifestyle—and you just might start

Forget about time-consuming chores like housekeeping, home repairs and yard work. You don’t even have to cook—delicious meals are available in our dining room. Scheduled transportation and onsite assistance are available as well, should you ever need them.

Our personalized service gives you more time to enjoy life—and with all of the social and recreational opportunities we offer, you might even discover some new interests. So what are you waiting for?

Our personalized service gives you more time to enjoy life— and with all of the social and recreational opportunities we offer, you might even discover some new interests. So what are

Come visit, and stay for lunch. Call 618.466.8662.

Come visit and stay for lunch. Call 618.466.8662.

Come visit and stay for lunch. Call 618.466.8662. www.UnitedMethodistVillage.com

62035

Independent Living and Assisted Living

5201 Asbury Avenue - Godfrey, IL 62035

5201 Asbury Avenue - Godfrey, IL 62035

5201 Asbury Avenue - Godfrey, IL 62035

5201 Asbury Avenue Godfrey, IL

Welcome to the City of Alton … one of the most populous communities within the Riverbend, with more than 28,000 residents.

Because of its rich history and opportunity for growth, Alton is and continues to be a thriving place to live and work. It is known for its great historical events, putting Alton on the map since its inception in 1837.

With a great location and numerous amenities, Alton was chosen as the future stop and start location for the St. Louis region for high-speed rail from Chicago. This new facility, the Alton Regional

Multi-Modal Transportation Center, solidifies the city as a transportation hub in the area and will serve the residents of the St. Louis metropolitan

area north of Interstate 270. There are opportunities for development on the 30 acres surrounding the site at the Robert Wadlow Town Center,

which houses the new highspeed rail.

Other businesses that call Alton “home” include the Argosy Casino and the Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater on the Mississippi Banks, attracting visitors from all around the globe. Residents and visitors also enjoy the many shops and restaurants located downtown and in Upper Alton, offering a bit of something for everyone.

Three hospitals continue to serve the community — Alton Memorial Hospital, OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center and its affiliate OSF Saint Clare’s Hospital.

Alton is also a great place to raise a family, offering both public and private school options and a wealth of viable housing choices. Continual infrastructure improvements are planned in the coming years, promising continued improvements to area parks and public works.

There are many recreational activities available in Alton, including a variety of athletic programs at Hopkins FieldGordon Moore Park. Adult softball leagues, recreational baseball and softball teams, including the Bluff City Bombers or the Alton Pioneers, are fun for all ages. Thanks to the Illinois Park and Recreation Association, Playcore, Phillips 66, and funding from local

businesses, Gordon Moore park is home to a one-ofa-kind playground that is universally accessible and inclusive for children of all abilities to play on. Stay tuned for a Gordon Moore Park restoration project to include a new concessions stand with restrooms and an attached pavilion and a new entrance to improve traffic flow.

One of Alton’s proudest attributes is its history. Monuments mark the site of the final debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas in 1858; celebrate the life of Elijah Lovejoy, martyr of the freedom of the press who published a paper in Alton and was killed

for his views; and show the stature of Robert Wadlow, the world’s tallest man who lived in Alton and was buried here. n

cityofaltonil.com

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Growing with you

Bethalto is conveniently located at the intersection of State Routes 140 and 111 with Illinois Route 255 on the west side of the village. As a chartered village since 1869, today it has nearly 10,000 residents calling Bethalto home. This growing community in Madison County boasts much, including the St. Louis Regional Airport. For those commuting to St. Louis or the northern end of the Riverbend, Bethalto is an ideal place to live.

If you are looking for a town to raise a family, Bethalto offers a safe environment, with a police department that provides residents one of the safest and lowest crime rates in the area. Bethalto’s fire department offers advanced life support services along with the best insurance grade available for a volunteer department, while its Public Works Department is well on the way to providing residents with some of the best infrastructure in the Riverbend area. The Bethalto Community Unit School District No. 8 offers kindergarten through high school grade classes, with two parochial schools for preschool through eighthgrade students.

The Village of Bethalto caters to “kids of all ages!” Amenities that make Bethalto special include a fine public library, a Boys and Girls Club, a modern splash park currently under construction, tennis and basketball courts, a skate park, and numerous parks and playgrounds. If you like to stay active all year long, Bethalto is the perfect community.

For history buffs, Bethalto even has a historical museum complete with an original log cabin circa 1860 on-site.

Sports enthusiasts love the Village of Bethalto! Its sports complex consists of three soccer fields, a football field and nine baseball/softball fields that provide a home to the Civic Memorial High School baseball and softball teams and the Bethalto American Legion Baseball Team. The village also has four baseball fields and facilities at Southside Park that host Bethalto’s youth recreational baseball and football programs.

The Riverbend area is known for numerous events and festivals, and Bethalto is a village that doesn’t disappoint! The Annual Labor Day Weekend Homecoming in Central Park is an event that many throughout the Riverbend area attend

each year. This festival was created more than 90 years ago to celebrate the return of military service members from World War I, and the carnival-like festivities offers rides, food, drink and musical entertainment. Another popular event is Family Fun Day held every September at Bryant Park in Bethalto. Family Fun Day is a family-centric afternoon consisting of bounce houses, children’s activities, music, food and loads of fun. And the best part? Everything is free! The holiday season in Bethalto is highly celebrated with the Bethalto Spirits Victorian Christmas Walk and Concert, The Kiwanis Club’s breakfast with Santa, and Christmas Village in Central Park that provides breathtaking displays, live entertainment, a petting zoo, and the kiddies Christmas Train for four weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Many exciting new developments are also under way in this charming community. A mix of new residential developments, including affordable single-family homes and condominiums, is being developed, with more growth anticipated. Housing is conveniently available for all income levels, ranging from apartment living to upscale single-family homes. Bethalto also has several options for senior living ranging from private condominiums to senior-community living. Commercial developments are currently under way on both ends of town and along Illinois Route 140.

Once you visit Bethalto, you’ll realize what a wonderful community it is. Bethalto offers something for everyone! n bethalto.com

pioneer for progress

Located along the Mississippi River, East Alton provides great access to Illinois Route 255 and Interstate 270 for both commerce and travel.

Established in 1893, East Alton is home to more than 6,000 residents, covering approximately 5.7 square miles with a unique blend of residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Centrally located and just a short distance from many key educational facilities and businesses, including Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Lewis & Clark Community College, and St. Louis Regional Airport, East Alton is a perfect spot many residents and businesses refer to as “home.”

Families enjoy the many benefits East Alton has to offer. The town comprises single-family homes, several multifamily apartments and two high-rise apartments. Safety and comfort of the citizens of the Village has always been a top priority for East Alton. The men and women of the East Alton Fire Department, Police Department, Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Village Hall, East Alton Building & Zoning, East Alton School District and Library District take great pride in serving the needs of their beloved community. East Alton is served within close proximity by Alton’s two hospitals, adding to its appeal.

There are also a wide variety of businesses that are flourishing in East Alton. Two of the largest employers in the region, Olin Corporation and Global Brass and Copper, have an East Alton address. These corporations are located on the banks of the Mississippi River adjacent to Lock and Dam 26 along Illinois Route 3. Another hometown staple, Fischer Lumber Company, is a family-owned

business that has been providing building materials to the community for more than 75 years. Clark Boat & Motor has been selling new boats and services since 1953. A mere 10 minutes from St. Louis Regional Airport and within an hour of St. Louis Lambert International Airport, East Alton is a prime location for busy business and recreational travelers.

East Alton also offers many recreation and community activities to enjoy. Its beautiful parks and the Keasler Recreation Complex host multiple soccer and baseball programs for youth of all ages. The Parks and Recreation Department has numerous fun activities for local senior citizens. For hockey and skating enthusiasts, the East Alton Ice Arena is the only rink in the region. The Ice Arena hosts grade school and high school leagues, while also serving college games and adult leagues. The ice rink also offers figure skating and open sessions for the public to enjoy. In 2017, the East Alton History Museum opened to rave reviews. Historical items and information date all the way back to the beginning of the village in 1893.

East Alton is a wonderful place to live, work and to visit, offering a strong economic environment with an even stronger sense of community spirit. n eastaltonvillage.org

Escape to a piece of heaven

Located on the Great River Road between Alton and Grafton, the Village of Elsah offers scenic views paired with a vibrant history. This beautiful Village has an entrance in the valley at the base of Mount Radiance, a tall limestone bluff along the Mississippi shoreline in the Riverbend. Elsah’s town limits include the valley and the bluffs to the east of the entrance. Elsah can easily be visited from the north off of Illinois Route 3 or from Beltrees Road. The Village is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The people who call Elsah home truly enjoy its friendly, peaceful neighborhoods and strong sense of community. Its convenient location allows residents to easily commute for both work and play to Alton, Jerseyville and St. Louis. Families in Elsah can be rest assured when it comes to their children’s academic future, as children attend quality schools in the Jersey Community School District. The Village of Elsah also offers conveniently located hospitals, shopping, local eateries and entertainment in the nearby towns of Alton, Jerseyville and Grafton.

It is easy to see why so many people enjoy an “escape to Elsah.” The 19th century buildings located in the valley are truly a sight to see. Because of local zoning and a dedicated commitment to the community for historic preservation, the appearance of the buildings and overall character of the village have remained unchanged. In fact, Elsah is often referred to as “the town that time forgot,” and is favored for its oldfashioned, one-of-a-kind character.

Renowned Principia College Historic District is a National Historic Landmark recognizing the work of architect Bernard R. Maybeck. Since 1935, Principia College has been an architectural gem in Elsah. This liberal arts, four-year college for Christian Scientists has been part of village life for years, offering residents access to endless events and activities.

A visit to the Elsah General Store (elsahgeneralstore.com) is like taking a step back in time. Built in the 1870s, this beautiful little store was home to a thriving

dry goods business in Elsah’s early days. Today’s general store captures the feeling of a simpler time while offering groceries, old-fashioned candies, vintage bottled sodas, ice cream, jams, honey, pickled vegetables, collectibles, books, cards, gifts, and the “goodies table.” Another community classic is Elsah’s Fountain Square Park, an absolute family favorite. Also, a trip to the Elsah Museum makes for a day of fun for residents and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into Elsah’s rich history.

The Village of Elsah also offers Farley’s Music Hall, owned and operated by the Historic Elsah Foundation. This unique venue hosts countless wedding receptions, community dances and birthday parties where priceless memories are made throughout the entire year. Rental information is available at historicelsah.org. Another great venue is the Elsah Civic Center, which offers meeting space for businesses and organizations, and even a kitchen for luncheons. The adjoining 1857 Elsah School Building is also available as rental space by contacting the village clerk at elsah.clerk@gmail.com

When visiting this vibrant village, guests can stay at one of two cozy bed and breakfasts: The Green Tree Inn (greentreeinnelsah.com) or The Maple

Leaf Cottage Inn (mapleleafcottageinn. com.) Each bed and breakfast offers its own unique style, while both feature delicious home cooking, free use of bicycles, beautiful gardens and superior guest hospitality.

Green Tree Innkeepers, Connie and Gary Davis, celebrated their 5-year anniversary in June 2017 with a ribbon-cutting hosted by the RiverBend Growth Association. The Green Tree Inn is the proud recipient of TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for the last four years. In 2017, Green Tree Inn was voted “No. 1 People’s Choice for Hotel/Accommodations in Southwest Illinois” by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Maple Leaf Cottage Inn has been providing clean, comfortable and affordable lodging since 1949. The inn was winner of the People’s Choice Award for “Best Overnight Stay” two years in a row, 2016 and 2017. Dream Vacation Magazine selected this bed and breakfast as one of the top 25 Most Romantic Getaways in the state of Illinois for both 2016 and 2017. TripAdvisor awarded Maple Leaf Cottage Inn with the Certificate of Excellence Award.

The Village of Elsah has so much to offer for residents and guests! n

prime playground in which to live

The Village of Godfrey is one of Illinois’ newest municipalities and also one of the Riverbend’s largest. This predominantly residential community has a population of almost 18,000 and is devoted to agricultural uses and maintaining a natural state of beauty enjoyed by residents as well as visitors. In a prime location just northwest of Alton, the Village of Godfrey is more than 36 square miles, making it the eighth-largest municipality in terms of geographic area in the entire State of Illinois.

The motto, “You Can See Your Future From Here,” is a perfect representation of the Godfrey brand. The motto effectively summarizes how the community is always providing its residents and businesses the highest quality of life and opportunities for success. An example of how Godfrey is leading the region is the current economic development initiatives happening to attract new businesses while continuing to support businesses that have already made Godfrey home.

The Village of Godfrey continues to prosper, with

the completion of ongoing highway projects, including the completion of Illinois Route 255. The village will begin to see more commercial development growth in addition to continued residential growth due to the highway development projects. Residents often praise the benefits this community has to offer like top-notch hospitals, schools and places of worship just minutes away.

The same applies to individuals and families, too. If you are looking for a place to call home, you’ll be astonished with Godfrey’s beautiful neighborhoods, amenities, and low taxes. Those who already have made their home in Godfrey will not be surprised to learn the village is undertaking activities such as long-range bike and pedestrian planning, even more road improvements, and further expansion in parks facilities and recreational opportunities to continue to enrich this already great community.

In the fall season, thousands of people flock to Godfrey for the Great Godfrey Maze, now in its 18th season of operation. Learn more about this special

annual event, as well as a grand opening celebration and ticket information, by visiting the village’s website.

It’s clear what makes the community of Godfrey such a wonderful place to call home. Families and businesses thrive

in this hospitable municipality, enjoying all that Godfrey has to offer. Conveniently located close to all of the region’s attractions, Godfrey offers homespun fun in a setting that continues to thrive. n

godfreyil.org

beautiful Riverbend getaway

Get away in Grafton! Whether visitors travel five minutes or five hours, Grafton is a great destination for an afternoon, a weekend or even a lifetime. The charming historic riverfront teems with incredible wineries, delectable restaurants, unique shopping and pure nature. Grafton is

a picture-perfect small town located between the Illinois and Mississippi rivers with stunning limestone bluffs running the length of the National Scenic Byway along Route 100. To no surprise, the drive through Grafton has been named one of the ten greatest drives in the nation.

Grafton’s Main Street is listed on the National Historic Register, boasting many examples of 19th century architecture. Visitors can embark on a self-guided walking tour of the majestic Main Street area. Beyond Main Street, the business community continues to grow and expand as does

the residential community. The city received two Governor’s Hometown Awards for quality of life. For visitors that opt to make their stay a permanent one, the city offers a number of residential opportunities from upscale condominiums and villas to beautiful historic homes. Many

options include a remarkable view of the riverfront.

Those who already call Grafton home note the permanent vacation feeling they have because of the high level of natural beauty and breathtaking views. Nature lovers flock to Grafton year-round, but they especially love the fall season. The turning leaves attract countless visitors who soak in the astounding sights. Real estate in Grafton offers an array of different types of homes that attract residents from all over the state and the country. The beauty of life in Grafton is that no matter where you travel, you will always return to a serene, appealing and safe community.

For visitors, Grafton offers a number of activities and attractions to entice those of any age. Visitors can fish, boat, bird watch, shoot photography, visit a waterpark, drink and dine, parasail, zipline and many others. Grafton even offers an outdoor skating rink when the weather cools off. Boredom simply is not

things to do are constantly being added.

If you find that you cannot fit all of the Grafton attractions and amenities in one day, there are plenty of topnotch hotels and charming bed and breakfasts scattered throughout the riverfront. Many visitors note that the staff makes them feel like family and friends instead of just the clientele.

For endless amounts of enjoyment, look no further than Grafton as your next destination. Come on down and say hello, we cannot wait to meet you! Visit for a weekend — stay for a lifetime. n

enjoygrafton.com

Independence Through Opportunity

Challenge Unlimited, Inc, proudly headquartered in Alton, IL and once known as Specialized Services, is a national nonprofit organization established in 1959 committed to the inclusion of individuals with disabilities into mainstream society. Our mission is simple and impactful: Partnering with businesses, we create INDEPENDENCE THROUGH OPPORTUNITY, which allows people with disabilities to live, work, and participate in the community.

If you seek contracted facility services (such as janitorial and grounds keeping); seek inclusion in the workplace with talented individuals with disabilities seeking employment; or seek residential housing for people with disability, please call 1-618-465-0044 and visit us on our website at www.cuinc.org

A place with a lot of heart

The Village of Hartford is perfectly situated where the Mississippi River and the Missouri River meet, only a short 30-minute drive northeast of St. Louis. When traveling along Route 3 in Illinois, the Village of Hartford is between the Lewis and Clark Historic Site No. 1 and the Meeting of the Great Rivers

Museum. Hartford offers rich history in a quaint setting, making it a nice place to live with business development opportunities available as well.

The 180-foot Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower, perched at the confluence of the two great rivers, is worth a visit. The tower with

surrounding acreage and the Lewis and Clark Commerce Center boasts amazing views and historical significance. Whether you reside nearby or within Hartford, anyone experiencing the Riverbend should take advantage of this amazing complex. The new amphitheater will also allow Hartford to host events offering local live music on Sunday afternoons during the fall season.

For bike riders, the Confluence Bikeway offers a scenic route to enjoy. Additionally, there are approximately 375 acres obtainable for industrial development. Enterprise zones and TIF district incentives make this area in the Village of Hartford a top priority. Benefits of the site offer a truck route, rail access, electric and gas lines.

Prime real estate in Hartford also exists at Jefferson Gardens, located on the grounds of the Clark Confluence Tower. The garden showcases plants discovered during the Lewis and Clark expedition as well as many outdoor activities. As the seasons change, visitors can enjoy beautiful blooming trees that set the stage for outdoor activities. During the fall, the many colors of the falling leaves and evening sunsets over the water keep visitors coming back for more. As the winter air begins to chill, eagle-watching is in its prime in January and February in Hartford. Spectators come from great distances to revel in their grace and beauty.

Recreation is a big part of Hartford’s thriving community. With a 17-acre park that offers walking and jogging paths, as well as several neighborhood parks and a Veteran’s Memorial Park located on Route 3, it’s

easy to enjoy the outdoor spaces with friends and family. The Woodrow Wilson Community Center is ideal for residents looking for a gym. The center also offers a gymnasium that can be rented for functions and special events. Kids of all ages can enjoy the Frisbee golf course and the dog-walking park for our fourfooted friends.

The Village of Hartford also has two school districts: Wood RiverHartford School District 15, with two elementary schools and a junior high school, and East Alton-Wood River Community School District 14, with one high school in Wood River.

Residents and businesses alike enjoy police and fire protection, offering a safe haven for everyone. The police and fire protection district often aid in the sponsorship of community-wide events like family-friendly fish fries, car shows, festivals, and cultural events. Hartford is truly a place that everyone can enjoy! n

hartfordillinois.net

PROVIDING ENERGY. IMPROVING LIVES. CITY PROFILES |

small town with big appeal

Roxana is a growing village in the Riverbend, home to key businesses including the Phillips 66 Refinery and the Roxana Landfill Authority. These big businesses help make Roxana a great place to find employment opportunities and settle down. Roxana also conveniently links the Riverbend area to the heart of the St. Louis Metropolitan area if commuting is necessary. Whether you are looking to relocate your business or your family, Roxana is a wonderful community that offers many benefits for residents and businesses alike.

Residents of Roxana enjoy many benefits, including a variety of public and utility services like full-time police and fire protection departments as well as water and waste water treatment that serves neighboring communities in the Riverbend area. Two major infrastructure projects and other improvements are enhancing

the village, including a Public Works Center that’s in full operation, offering more space for the Street Department to operate and more room to flourish.

Raifort Commerce Park is centrally located and has commercial and industrial zoned property that suits a variety of industries. Nestled on hundreds of acres, Raifort Commerce Park is located on the east and west side of Illinois Route 255, providing access to the north and southbound lanes of the Illinois Route 255 transportation system. Business lots are still available offering full utility services, making Raifort Commerce Park just one more reason to appreciate the prosperous Roxana business community.

Continued improvements to the village are happening along Route 111 on the lighting and sidewalk areas. Features like new street lights, sidewalks, and even additional

sidewalk lighting are in the works. This will enable the village to completely relocate a large water main from under Route 111. A storm water collection system on the west side of the community is also progressing, among other future improvements planned for Roxana.

The Roxana Community School District offers a campus environment with quality education for its students. The village is proud of the past renovations made to the school’s main campus, making it not only visually appealing but also academically strong. Additionally, Roxana offers a full-service community library to the residents of

the Riverbend with many additional amenities and events throughout the year.

There’s so much to offer residents and visitors of Roxana alike, including a beautiful Roxana Park District Complex that supports a wide spectrum of year-round sports and recreational activities for the community. If you’re looking for a friendly place to live, work and raise a family, the Village of Roxana offers small town pride with big appeal. n

roxana-il.org

celebrating 50 years

South Roxana celebrated its 50th year as a village in 2017. Located at the southern end of the Riverbend area with a population of 2,000 residents, South Roxana offers its citizens a wonderful place to call “home” in a great location. Looking toward the future, Barb Overton recently became the first female mayor of this family-friendly village with a lot to offer.

With a full-time police department and fire department, South Roxana is a safe place to raise a family. Recently, a new pre-kindergarten wing has been added at the South Roxana Primary School, which is part of the Roxana School District.

It’s an exciting time to live in South Roxana! As a welcoming business community with two TIF districts along Route 111 and Madison Avenue, the

village offers approximately 160 acres for business development, with some additional opportunities along Illinois Route 255 across from the Phillips 66 Wood River Refinery. Recently, the Village added a new business, Steve Yates Auto Sales, on Kearny Lane just north of the canal off Route 111. Additionally, Lando Development is building three new business opportunities within the village.

Other happenings in the village include a $100,000 block grant from Madison County Community Development. This grant helped South Roxana make sewer improvements with two new pump stations. With a Madison County Park and Recreation grant of $15,000, the village installed a new water fountain, fresh basketball court paint, and added mulch to the beloved playground area with

completed fencing around the entire park. Madison County Transit Director Jerry Kane donated a customized police bike and a 15-passenger van for community activities and police youth program. South Roxana has a little bit of something to offer residents and visitors of all ages, with a lot of community spirit. The 60year old Dad’s Club is a 10-acre nonprofit privately owned park that has bingo every Saturday night. Its mission is to further the Village of South Roxana, providing yearly scholarships and helping disadvantaged residents. The Village Hall offers fun events throughout the year, celebrating South Roxana and the people living there.

The Village of South Roxana continues to invest in the future, investing in the community and its people that make it a great place to live and work. n

in the spirit of Lewis and Clark

Over the past year, growth and progress have been apparent in the Riverbend town of Wood River.

With almost 11,000 residents, this ideal place to live and work offers residents and businesses the many amenities of a larger, urban oasis but with a small town vibe that so many individuals and families enjoy. Only a 15-minute drive from St. Louis, Wood River has excellent transportation links to the city and beyond. If you are looking to relocate, home sales are booming. Soughtafter existing homes in Wood River appeal to those wanting a solid, well-built home with classic touches that are a renovator’s dream. New home construction also continues to increase in the area, proving that more and more people are appreciating the many qualities and conveniences Wood River has to offer.

Enjoying the outdoors is easy in Wood River. Offering eight parks covering 273 acres, it’s easy to stay active all year long. Belk Park continues to remain a popular destination for all ages. One of the newest attractions, the one-mile walking path with footbridge encircling Wright Lake, continues to impress outdoor enthusiasts and pet owners alike. Phillips 66 Wood River Refinery and several grants helped to make this wonderful walking path with accessible fishing dock a reality. Another local landmark that’s conveniently located in Wood River’s Central Park is the Veterans War Memorial. This beautiful memorial won the Governor’s Hometown Award and is unique to the area. If you haven’t visited the site yet, it’s a wonderful tribute to those that have served.

For golfers, the well-known Belk Park Golf Course (belkpark.com) is visited by more than 50,000 people

each year. Maintaining its stellar reputation as a premier course, this 18-hole golf course has a lot to offer. With recently upgraded drainage improvements, clubhouse updates and new exterior fencing, Belk Park Golf Course is a perfect spot for your golf tournament, business meeting, or other event. Nearby, the Aquatic Center (wrparks.org/ aquatic-center) is another well-known destination in Wood River. The center offers an Olympic-size swimming pool, wading pool and twinflume water slides, making it the perfect place to cool off when the weather is hot.

Other exciting initiatives are also happening! The highly anticipated $7.6 million new police facility has been approved for development at Sixth Street and Madison.

Businesses continue to renovate, including recent updates to the Wood River Soccer Complex’s permanent restrooms and concessions, a $350,000 Jack Schmitt expansion and renovations to the popular Pump House Bar and Grill. Other new restaurants and retail establishment updates in Wood River include Burger King, Von Dell Art Gallery, Farmers Insurance, Carquest, and a smooth transition of ownership for Kumar’s Restaurant downtown. Donzo’s was also purchased and reopened, proving that in Wood River, business is good!

It’s easy to see why people and businesses call Wood River “home.” n

woodriver.org

“I knew from the beginning I wanted to come back to my hometown to practice. I treat many people that I have known for years, and it’s a good feeling to be able to help my community.”

– Dr. John Lindsay, Podiatrist – 10-year Mission Partner Chief of the Medical Staff

HELLO, I AM OSF HealthCare

At OSF HealthCare, we’re your neighbor, your family, your kid’s coach. We’re part of a nationally recognized and innovative health system.

We’re building a better, healthier Riverbend community by investing in more primary care sites, new urgent care services and a new cancer center.

Backed by an integrated network, we bring advanced technology, specialized medical care and cutting-edge research – all with that exceptional patient experience you deserve.

We’re OSF HealthCare. Everyday people. Innovative vision. Learn more at osfsaintanthonys.org/riverbend.