Currents 2020

Highlighting the people and places of OurRiverBend

2020

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Highlighting the people and places of OurRiverBend

PROJECT COORDINATOR Debbie Hagen EDITOR Fred Pollard DESIGNER Missy Long WRITERS Nathan Grimm Fred Pollard Frank Prager Suzanne Slaughter Danette Watt PHOTOGRAPHERS Andrew Dobson Jeff Helmkamp Fred Pollard Frank Prager Bill Roseberry This is an AdVantage publication created and produced for the RiverBend Growth Association.

5800 Godfrey Road - BGM (mailing) 6722 Godfrey Road (physical) Godfrey, IL 62035 618-467-2280 growthassociation.com info@growthassociation.com

2 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

JOHN KELLER

Grow Association President Thank you for viewing the 2019-2020 Currents magazine!

This publication serves as the RiverBend Growth Association’s opportunity to highlight the people and places in our communities that comprise the Riverbend region of Southwestern Illinois. We hope you share this with others in the office where you picked it up, or, share with your houseguests on your coffee table at home. We have featured member businesses with compelling stories to tell and milestones that have been met, such as Gent Funeral Home’s 85th anniversary and the Alton Symphony Orchestra’s 75th year of entertaining us.

This year, we have added a page on an event that had a major impact on the region — the Flood of 2019.

It is of significance not only because of the 127 days that the Mississippi River was above flood stage, but more importantly for the resilience, determination and attitude adopted by everyone to get back to “business as usual” as quickly as possible. It was refreshing to see that a rising river not only floods property, but rather, raised everyone affected by the Flood of 2019 to new heights. From the staff

of the RiverBend Growth Association moving a major community event out of a flood-ravaged area in just a five-day time frame so an estimated 1,000 people could attend the event, to the merchants of Grafton cleaning up the streets and businesses two different times in order to be ready for the summer tourist crowd, to the Alton Public Works’ tireless efforts in protecting Downtown Alton, we showed what can be accomplished when we all pull together!

We continue to promote development opportunities to site selectors that continually search the Midwest on behalf of their clients, while striving to develop and maintain programs and events that give value to our membership and communities.

Thank you again for your interest in Currents magazine, which showcases our RiverBend communities. We are proud to share this publication with our visitors, residents and future residents alike!

Sincerely,

A look at RBGA 22

Please recycle this product.

Contents

Advertiser Index 1st Mid America Credit Union

26

Alton Little Theater

31

Alton Memorial Hospital

11

Alton MultiSpecialists

33

Alton, City of

17

Anchor Business Solutions

21

Andy's Auto Body

19

Argosy

17

Asbury Village

17

Auto Butler

33

Baxter Distributing Co.

21

Beverly Farm

32

Bluff City Grill

15

Bristow, Rep. Monica

30

Busey Bank

30

Centerstone

21

Claywell Asset Management

32

CNB Bank & Trust

17

Countryside Builders

32

Elias, Kallal & Schaaf

30

First Mid Bank & Trust

28

Gent Funeral Home

26

Godfrey Meat Market

11

Godfrey, Village of

7

Hayner Public Library District

11

Hillcrest Apartments

12

Illinois American Water

15

ALTON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL | 4 OSF HEALTHCARE SAINT ANTHONY’S HEALTH CENTER | 5 PRINCIPIA COLLEGE | 7 SIU SCHOOL OF DENTAL MEDICINE | 8 LEWIS AND CLARK COMMUNITY COLLEGE | 9 IMPACT CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING | 10 GENT FUNERAL HOME | 12 SOUTHERN ILLINOIS BUILDERS ASSOCIATION | 14 BAXTER DISTRIBUTING COMPANY | 16 ALTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA | 18 EASTGATE RISING | 20 RIVERBEND GROWTH ASSOCIATION | 22-25 A FLOOD OF SUPPORT | 27 ALTON | 34

King Air Conditioning & Bush Refrigeration 29 Landmark Godfrey

21

Lewis & Clark Community College

26

Liberty Bank

11

Med Resources

32

Midwest Members Credit Union

15

Missouri Baptist University

25

Morrissey Construction

29

Nautilus Fitness Center

33

OSF Saint Anthony's Health Center

44

OSF HealthCare

21

Plumbers & Pipefitters

31

Professional Hearing Associates

30

Quality Buick GMC Cadillac

29

Raging Rivers Water Park

33

Riverbend Kitchen & More

7

Roberts Motors

17

Scheffel Boyle

12

SCORE

12

St. Louis Regional Airport

25

St. Peters Hardware

19

Villa Rose

33

Wells Fargo Advisors

26

Werts Welding & Tank Service

21

West Star Aviation

29

BETHALTO | 35 EAST ALTON | 36 ELSAH | 37 GODFREY | 38

On the cover

GRAFTON | 39

Clockwise from top left, Bethalto Splash Landing, Grafton Lighthouse Park, Argosy Casino Alton, American flag in Alton, Glazebrook Park in Godfrey, Bethalto clock at Village Hall, Elsah gazebo, Snyder Building in Alton, The Loading Dock in Grafton, Glazebrook Park in Godfrey, Clark Bridge at sunset (center)

8

20

HARTFORD | 40 ROXANA | 41 SOUTH ROXANA | 42 WOOD RIVER | 43

25

27

2020 CURRENTS 3

Alton Memorial Hospital

Dr. Craig Harms cuts the ribbon on the new BJC Medical Group office building in Bethalto, surrounded by the staff of Family Physicians of Bethalto, Alton Memorial Convenient Care at Bethalto and the Network Reference Lab.

S

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

To underscore the hospital’s trust from the public, AMH won two prestigious honors

4 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

In connection with that, AMH is now offering a full range of urological services to the community with the addition of two urologists from Washington University Physicians of Illinois Inc. The practice is located in Medical Office Building A, Suite 205, with Dr. Arjun Sivaraman and Dr. Gerald Andriole.

Other physicians who have joined the medical staff include Dr. David Harmon (hospice/ palliative care), Dr. Matthew Musielak (surgeon) and Dr. Bindu Patel (OB/GYN).

Today, AMH is a full-service, acute-care hospital, accredited by the Joint Commission with approximately 900 employees, more than 250 physicians and 123 staffed beds serving patients in a five-county area.

AMH 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, 24-hour emergency care, and ambulance services. The Women’s Health and Childbirth Center delivered more than 700 babies in 2018, serving as the only delivery center in the Riverbend area.

This year, Alton Memorial Hospital joined the Siteman Cancer Network to improve the health of Riverbend residents and neighboring communities through cancer research, treatment and prevention. Membership in the Siteman network strengthens and further expands AMH’s connection as a member of BJC HealthCare to the nationally renowned cancer center based at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

Dr. Timothy Eberlein, director of Siteman Cancer Center, speaks during the May 1 announcement that Alton Memorial Hospital has joined the Siteman Cancer Network.

Behind Dr. Eberlein are AMH President Dave Braasch; Steve Thompson, chairman of the AMH board of directors and emcee of the event; Craig Green, an Alton firefighter who was treated at AMH and Siteman and appears in a video promoting the affiliation; and Dr. Gregory Vlacich, medical director of AMH Radiation Oncology and a Siteman physician. at the 2018 PRC (Professional Research Consultants) National Excellence in Healthcare Conference. The Human Motion Institute won its 11th consecutive PRC 5-Star Award for its Outpatient Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy services. A four-star

award went to the Emergency Department.

Since 1993, AMH has been a member of BJC HealthCare, one of the nation’s largest health care organizations. altonmemorialhospital.org

AMH and BJC Medical Group have expanded their presence in Madison County with a new medical office building in Bethalto. The building replaces the Family Physicians of Bethalto office on the south side of Route 140. At nearly 9,000 square feet, the new structure accommodates five providers. In addition, there is a Christian Hospital Reference Lab facility on site as well as space for BJC Medical Group specialists to rotate through, providing office visits for patients who live closer to that location. The new space enables extended evening and weekend hours for walk-ins similar to Alton Memorial Convenient Care (AMCC) in Godfrey.

O

SF Healthcare Saint Anthony’s Health Center, along with a number of key community partners and agencies, just released results of its Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), indicating that 17 percent of residents in our region have challenges with access to healthcare.

OSF Healthcare Saint Anthony’s Heal Center

OSF HealthCare continues to make significant progress on a promise to expand care to where residents live, work, and play. It’s also providing health education where it’s needed, including schools where vaping educational sessions are planned.

Cancer remains the number two cause of death in the region and the opening of the Moeller Cancer Center offers opportunities for additional screening, early diagnosis, the latest treatment technology and clinical trials from world-class oncology experts right here in the Riverbend.

OSF Saint Anthony’s is adding new specialists such as colorectal care, enhanced surgical care and podiatry.

In addition to opening a new PromptCare/Primary Care office in Godfrey, OSF is offering extended hours for primary care in Alton to increase access.

Convenience is important, but high-quality care is at the forefront of our Mission.

Access to experts in stroke care can be life-saving. OSF Saint Anthony’s was recently recognized nationally for providing gold-standard excellence for stroke care.

CARE WHERE YOU LIVE AND SHOP The latest CHNA also revealed a nearly 9 percent increase in the number of residents over the age of 65.

“We know baby boomers are

Cancer care providers at this year’s Cancer Survivors’ Dinner cheer for survivors. experience,” according to Sister M. Anselma, COO for OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center. A care team manager creates individualized plans for patients to overcome barriers to their well-being.

Mike Moeller with OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center President and CEO Ajay Pathak. Moeller and his wife, Amy, have donated $1 million and pledged another $150 in golf sponsorships for the new cancer center that will bear the name Moeller. more savvy, assertive, and health-conscious in their care, so we’re focused on better meeting their needs.” — OSF Saint Anthony’s President and CEO, Ajay Pathak A new kind of partnership, aimed at providing more convenient and easy access to care, is helping residents of Asbury Village in Godfrey, where OSF HealthCare offers an on-site primary care clinic as well as daily physical, occupational and speech therapy.

Alton Square Mall will be the site of a new 12,000-squarefoot comprehensive rehabilitation center. The location offers convenience plus additional amenities, including a walking track and integrated pediatric gym.

IMPROVING THE PATIENT EXPERIENCE “We are on target with efforts to improve access and create care teams that provide a coordinated, holistic approach to the health care

OSF HealthCare is also leveraging technology to offer more convenient online scheduling for primary and urgent care, plus OSF OnCall is the modern-day virtual equivalent of a house call for non-emergent immediate care 24/7 from a tablet or phone.

People who are having trouble managing mild stress, anxiety or depression have free access to OSF Silver Cloud, a smart phone app and evidence-based website that has live support for immediate care referrals.

The future is exciting. OSF Innovation has already brought telehealth for ICU and medication monitoring, and next year will bring a more robust virtual care program that supports the healthcare needs of our community. osfsaintanthonys.org

2020 CURRENTS 5

Riverbend Area Education LOCAL PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

SAT ELA testing

SAT Math testing

Percent Students with IEP*

Percent English Learners**

Percent Homeless

Chronic Absenteeism Rate

4-year Graduation Rate

Dropout Rate

Attendance Rate

Alton CUSD 11 altonschools.org • 618-474-2600

57.1

20.0

0.5

1.5

21.3 26.0 69.7 79.2

2.6

93.0 29.7 24.4

Bethalto CUSD 8 bethalto.org • 618-377-7200

47.5 14.4

0.9

1.6

18.8 22.0 73.7

94.1

0.8

94.0 26.7 20.0

East Alton SD 13 easd13.org • 618-433-2051

61.9 20.9

***

3.1

29.8 16.0

n/a

n/a

n/a

91.0

East Alton-Wood River CHSD 14 eawr.org • 618-254-3151

61.5 20.3

***

5.8

29.3 21.0 69.3 81.6

3.7

91.0 20.0 12.8

Jersey CUSD 100 jersey100.org • 618-498-5561

42.8 14.2

***

2.8

28.7 23.0 80.1 83.5

1.6

95.0 39.7

Roxana CUSD 1 roxanaschools.org • 618-254-7544

47.1

14.3

***

1.9

21.0 21.0 70.4 86.9

2.3

93.0 24.4 17.3

Wood River-Hartford SD 15 wrh15.org • 618-254-0607

68.0 19.8

***

15.0

4.0

n/a

n/a

93.0

49.4 14.5

11.7

2.0

16.8 20.0 74.8 85.4

2.1

94.0 36.9 34.3

State of Illinois source: illinoisreportcard.com

Average Class Size

Postsecondary Enrollment

Percent Low Income

(overall)

23.0

12 month

n/a

(% meeting or exceeding)

(% meeting or exceeding)

n/a

n/a

n/a

34.1

n/a

*Eligible to receive special education services. **Eligible for transitional bilingual programs. ***Asterisks in the tables indicate either non-reported data or suppressed data due to privacy concerns. Student counts reported are counts out of groups 10 or greater.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS (by city) Marquette Catholic High School, Alton marquettecatholic.org • 618-463-0580

Our Lady Queen of Peace School, Bethalto olqpbethalto.org • 618-377-6401

Montessori Children’s House, Godfrey mchgodfrey.org • 618-467-2333

Mississippi Valley Christian School, Alton mvcs-il.org • 618-462-1071

Zion Lutheran School, Bethalto zlsbethalto.org • 618-377-5507

St. Ambrose Catholic School, Godfrey stambrosegodfrey.org • 618-466-4216

St. Mary’s Catholic School, Alton stmarysalton.com/school 618-465-8523 elementary 618-465-9719 middle

Evangelical Schools, Godfrey evangelical-school.org • 618-466-1599

Bethel Christian Academy, South Roxana bethelfwbsroxana.org/BCA • 618-254-0188

AREA COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES Illinois College, Jacksonville ic.edu • 217-245-3000 Kaskaskia College, Centralia kaskaskia.edu • 618-545-3000 Lewis & Clark Community College, Godfrey, Edwardsville lc.edu • 800-YES-LCCC McKendree University, Lebanon mckendree.edu • 800-BEARCAT Missouri Baptist University at Lewis & Clark, Godfrey mobap.edu/lccc • 618-468-2621 Principia College, Elsah principiacollege.edu • 618-374-2131

6 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

Children’s Tribe, A Montessori Academy, Godfrey childrenstribe.org • 618-466-0399

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville siue.edu • 800-447-SIUE Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine, Alton siue.edu/dental • 618-474-7170 Southwestern Illinois College, Belleville, Granite City, Red Bud swic.edu • 618-235-2700 Fontbonne University, St. Louis fontbonne.edu • 800-205-5862 Harris-Stowe State University, St. Louis hssu.edu • 314-340-3366 Lindenwood University, St. Charles lindenwood.edu • 636-949-2000

Maryville University, St. Louis maryville.edu • 314-529-9300 Missouri Baptist University, St. Louis mobap.edu • 314-434-1115 Ranken Technical College, St. Louis ranken.edu • 866-4-RANKEN Saint Louis University, St. Louis slu.edu • 800-758-3678 University of Missouri – St. Louis, St. Louis umsl.edu • 314-516-5000 Washington University, St. Louis wustl.edu • 314-935-5000 Webster University, Webster Groves webster.edu • 800-981-9801

PRINCIPIA THRIVES UNDER NEW LEADERSHIP Located on the bluffs of the Great River Road, Principia College is the only provider of higher education worldwide that has both a faculty and student body composed of those with a Christian Scientist perspective.

CONCEPT TO COMPLETION Design & Installation Service

since the school's founder when she accepted her position in March of 2018.

"I am honored to lead the college from which I graduated, and am grateful to be working with students, staff, faculty, and administration as we From a desire to explore Principia's Westerhof provide a spiritually vision and purpose for grounded education for her educating the next generation two sons, Mary Kimball Morgan of world citizens - with our founded the college as a common foundation of school in St. Louis in 1898. In Christian Science."

1934, Principia's new four-year liberal arts college, established Dr. Westerhof previously served as associate vice in Elsah, graduated its first president for the Academic class.

Leadership and Change Continuing the legacy of Division of the American strong female leadership, Dr. Association of State Colleges Jolanda Westerhof became and Universities in Washington, the first woman to serve as D.C. president of Principia College

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2020 CURRENTS 7

SIU School of Dental Medicine

Word of mouth

The Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine in Alton will observe the 45th anniversary of its first graduating class in 2020. The dental school is one of only three in Illinois and has been known for the caliber of its curriculum and the quality of its graduates since its inception.

“When students graduate, they are prepared to be practicing dentists,” he says. “First-time pass rates for the national board exams and the clinical board exams required to become a dentist are greater than 90 percent.”

“We consistently get around 500 applications every year and out of that, accept about 50 students,” Schaus says.

He notes acceptance for its international program is even more exacting, with the school only taking 6 to 8 students out of 600 applications. All applicants are required to take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) administered by the American Dental Association.

8 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

Specialty and post-graduate programs provided through the university allow students to study in the areas of periodontics, endodontics, pediatric dentistry and orthodontics.

The dental school sponsors a number of special events each year. Started in 2003, the annual Give Kids A Smile Day provides free dental care for children who do not receive regular dental treatment and who do not have regular access to dental care. The program has grown to provide treatment to an average of 240 children a year over the past 9 years.

The school’s director of development, Stephen Schaus, explains what sets the school apart.

He says since its first graduating class in 1975, nearly 2,000 students have received their dental degrees at the school. This was the first year the school graduated students from an international program.

Louis Center allows students to provide dental care to an economically disadvantaged area.

The annual Give Kids A Smile Day provides free dental care for children who do not have access to regular dental care.

The school occupies 26 acres on the site of the former Shurtleff College. Its campus comprises a main clinic and a multidisciplinary laboratory building, as well as administration buildings, a science building, a biomedical library and information technology offices.

constructed in 2006. A major renovation of the pre-clinical laboratory was completed in 2014. The facility contains 60 simulation units.

The main clinic was built in 1984 and Y E A R S was renovated in 2005. It is the site of most student practical experience and provides patient dental care at 72 patient care stations. Schaus notes the university has approximately 8,000 patients and handles about 35,000 patient visits every year.

He points out the instructors at the school are also practicing dentists, which allows the curriculum and technology to stay abreast of current developments in the field.

The advanced practice wing of the main clinic was

“The renovation placed us leaps and bounds ahead of previous technology,” Schaus says.

The communitybased East St. Louis Dental Clinic at the SIUE East St.

In 2018, the school hosted its inaugural Veteran’s Dental Care Day. Third- and fourthyear dental students, under the supervision of dental school faculty who are all licensed dentists, provided exams, x-rays, cleanings, fillings and extractions to veterans at no cost.

Schaus says the school is excited about future developments. It will soon build a state-of-the-art patient clinic to provide additional patient care opportunities within the Department of Graduate Education. siu.edu/dental 2800 Main St • Alton • (618) 474-7000

Lewis and Clark Community College

Monticello to a new millennium

Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey has cause for celebration, as 2020 marks the 50th anniversary of the educational institution.

“Today we graduate more than 1,000 students annually,” said Chapman, which he attributes to adding to Lewis and Clark’s economic impact on the area.

“We plan on celebrating our 50th anniversary throughout the year,” said the college’s president, Dr. Dale Chapman.

“We will be acknowledging our five decades of success during recurring campus events, a public celebration in 2020, and the launch of a capital and endowment campaign through our foundation.”

That impact has proven to be quite impressive, at close to $370 million total added income supported in the area annually and making up 4.7 percent of the gross regional product.

Located on the grounds of the former Monticello College for women, Lewis and Clark Community College was founded in 1970, with a co-ed student body that numbered 450. This is in stark contrast to the thousands of students the college now serves each year, in a district that spans seven counties.

Lewis and Clark offers a wide array of career and Y E A R S transfer programs, a nationally accredited program for high school students that offers dual credit courses, adult education, including GED completion, a workforce training program, and College for Kids.

“The expansion of the Godfrey campus, with the addition of the McPike Math and Science

Complex, helped the college triple its nursing program, and double the size of its math and science departments, which once used to fit in Fobes Hall,” Chapman said.

In 1999, Lewis and Clark Community College purchased what is now the N.O. Nelson Campus, along Illinois 159 in Edwardsville. When LCCC procured the property, the four buildings needed extensive repairs and were on Illinois’ Ten Most Endangered Historic Sites list. After extensive renovations, the N.O. Nelson campus houses classrooms and labs for various classes, such as select science courses, CNET, and adult education classes.

Over the years, Lewis and Clark Community College has received ample assistance from area business, which has been integral to their continued success.

“Major gifts from the Olin Corporation ($1 million), the Alton Memorial Health Services Foundation Templin Fund ($2.5 million), and Mr. Ed Weber ($3.15 million) have allowed Lewis and Clark to expand program offerings for students in math, science, nursing, and welding technology,” Chapman said.

“It was recently announced by the state of Illinois that the college will receive $37.5

million in funding to completely renovate the historically significant Main Complex, which was originally designed in the late 1880s by iconic architect Theodore Link, who also designed Union Station in downtown St. Louis. These major gifts and capital grants have allowed Lewis and Clark to transform the region and enhance offerings for the more than 217,000 residents we serve, in parts of 7 counties.”

Along with all of its past success and accomplishments, the future looks bright for Lewis and Clark Community College. Undoubtedly, the school’s past and future success depends on community support.

“Looking ahead to our next 50 years, we anticipate many changes in higher education,” Chapman said. “Preparing for opportunities and challenges requires that Lewis and Clark remain strong, but flexible.

Lewis and Clark has managed to grow as well as weather storms, without putting students, staff, or quality at risk. lc.edu 5800 Godfrey Rd • Godfrey • (618) 468-7000

2020 CURRENTS 9

IMPACT Center for Independent Living Cheerleaders for champions

I

MPACT Center for Independent Living (CIL) has grown in the 35 years since it was founded, but through it all the center has maintained the values at its core — providing services for people with disabilities, by people with disabilities.

“What’s really a key is we are operated by and driven by people with disabilYEARS ities,” IMPACT CIL Executive Director Cathy Contarino said. “That’s what makes us unique.”

Contarino should know.

She’s been with the organization since 1987, just two years after Dick Goodwin founded IMPACT in Alton in 1985, serving as executive director since 2004.

One thing that hasn’t changed over that time is the services rendered to the disabled community. Peer counseling, independent living skills training and information referral are just a few of the ways IMPACT helps disabled residents of its service area, which includes Madison, Macoupin, Jersey, Bond, Calhoun, and Greene counties.

To promote consumer control,

10 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

IMPACT CIL Executive Director Cathy Contarino (front left) says the organization benefits from the fact it is operated by people with disabilities, overcoming stigmas and providing a unique and inspirational work space.

IMPACT CIL’s governing Board of Directors includes at least 51 percent disabled individuals.

That allows the agency and its employees — IMPACT employs roughly 15 staff members, a number of whom also have a disability — to better connect with and help consumers.

“When you live life with disabilities, you can share that with people,” Contarino, who uses a wheelchair, said. “What I call a ‘street knowledge,’ so to speak. You live it every day, and people feel they are not alone.”

Being a center with an

emphasis on independent living, IMPACT also added transition services to its offerings in the late 1990s. That includes helping people with things like furniture, groceries and support personnel as they transition from nursing homes to the community.

IMPACT is funded primarily with state and federal dollars administered through the Illinois Department of Human Services’ Division of Rehabilitation Services.

In 1986, the center also became a United Way agency, receiving funding through the United Way of Southwestern Illinois. IMPACT also depends upon community support through donations and fundraising activities.

The year 1986 is also when the center moved from its home in Alton Plaza to its current location. IMPACT owns the building and has endured fire, flood and plenty more as a member of the Alton community.

Contarino said changing with the times and trying to keep up with the advances of technology — many of which greatly benefit the disabled population — is a challenge.

“We will continue to add relevant programs and be advocates in our community because there is still so much work to be done,” she said. impactcil.org 2735 E Broadway • Alton • (618) 462-1411

Three locations to serve you 132 Alton Square Mall 326 Belle Street 401 State Street Genealogy & Local History

The

Books, Music, Movies, Ebooks, Computers, Hayner Special Events, Kids/Teen Programs and more Public • FREE WIFI • Library 618-462-0677 haynerlibrary.org District

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2020 CURRENTS 11

Gent Funeral Home W

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Serving the Riverbend for more than 60 years.

hen Ralph A. Gent started Gent Funeral Home in 1935, times were very different. The business’ longevity and the fact ownership has been retained by the same family over that time is testimony to the quality of the service it provides and the legacy it has built in the surrounding community.

Gent passed the business to his two sons-inlaw, Les Bowles and Bob Scoggins. Scoggins has passed away but Bowles, now 86 years old, still comes in to the funeral home every day. His son, Ralph Bowles, currently runs the business.

Ralph’s son, Ben Bowles, is working in the business and is the fourth generation of the family involved.

Family has always been a mainstay of the business.

Les’ wife, Joanne Bowles,

Ralph A. Gent

12 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

is a licensed mortician and always worked closely with Les in the business operations.

Ralph’s sisters, Laura Bossé and Louise Jacoby, both work in office operations for the funeral home.

When asked why Gent Funeral Home has survived over the years when Y E A R S so many other businesses of its kind have closed, sold or merged with others, Ralph Bowles points out it is because of their focus on customer service and taking care of families.

“People come in who knew my parents and grandparents,” he says. “Word of mouth is priceless.”

The business of providing funerals is, in many ways, almost unrecognizable from what it was 85 years ago.

Bowles explains that families used to be born and grow

Bob Scoggins

A four generation legacy

up in the local area, seldom leaving.

characteristic of the legacy surrounding Gent Funeral Home.

“They worked here and died here,” he says.

“It’s a 24-7 business,” he says.

He explains that now, families are often spread out across the country, with members coming in only briefly to attend services.

He has worked at the business since he was a teenager, starting by mowing the lawn and picking up trash. Even though he now runs the business, he stays very much involved with details. He notes he personally dug a grave for an urn just recently. “Whatever it takes,” he says. “That’s really our motto here.”

Bowles says a lot has also changed over the years regarding the specific services offered.

“People today want a much greater spectrum of options,” he explains. “Cremation is much more popular today than in the past.”

There are many items funeral homes provide today beyond traditional caskets, urns and burial vaults. Bowles says he strictly avoids any type of high-pressure sales tactics but says he does respect the fact people today want choices.

Memory candles, key chains and jewelry are available that can contain images or the thumbprint of the deceased.

Hollow jewelry containing some of the loved one’s ashes is also available.

To make a point about just how much times have changed, Bowles points to a picture of an old sedan ambulance from the mid-1900s as a reminder that until 1977, funeral homes provided ambulance service for the local area.

“People have forgotten there did not used to be specially trained ambulance services,” he says. “Funeral homes ran ambulances that had bandages, splints, oxygen and CPR equipment, and went out whenever they were needed.”

Many would imagine running a funeral home to be a stressful, trying business, but Bowles sees it from a different perspective. “My dad told me when I was young that this job is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. He said you have to feel it is a calling, just like the ministry, and if you don’t feel that way, you need to leave the profession.”

Les and Joanne Bowles along with son, Ralph Bowles, and grandson, Ben Bowles [photo by Frank Prager] Gent Funeral Home as it looked when it opened in 1935 The death of a loved one obviously presents stress and challenges for the entire family. Bowles notes a key part of funerary services is taking care of details so the family does not. The funeral home coordinates with newspapers to have the obituary printed.

They work with cemeteries to have the grave prepared.

They also help to schedule those conducting the services and coordinate with memorial groups such as the VFW or active military groups to ensure everyone stays on

schedule for the graveside service.

Bowles feels what the business gives to the community is what truly gives him satisfaction in the job.

Gent Funeral Home also provides cremation services for pets. The business has a special vehicle and crematory for pets and will come to the customer’s home to pick the pet up if necessary.

“At the very end, when the family is satisfied with the way things were done, when they leave the cemetery and are still grieving, but I see that because of what we’ve done there is a sense of hope, that’s a good feeling.”

Bowles has been a licensed mortician for 31 years and his attention to the business is

gentfuneralhome.com 2409 State St • Alton • (618) 466-5544

2020 CURRENTS 13

Southern Illinois Builders Association I Contract high n 75 years of operation, everything has changed — and at the same time, nothing has changed — for the Southern Illinois Builders Association.

Since its inception in 1945, SIBA, a chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America, offers many of the same services it always has. The challenge, CEO Donna Richter said, is adapting to the times to emphasize the services that the association’s roughly 500 members need at that moment.

The O’Fallon, Ill.-based trade association for commercial contractors is one of about 90 chapters across the United States and covers southern Illinois from south of Springfield and from the borders of Missouri, Indiana and Kentucky. Richter, who has been CEO since Jan. 1, 2015, and has been with SIBA for 38 years in total, said SIBA is comprised mainly of general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers, noting that they track approximately 2,000 projects a year.

Richter said that while most of the services the association offers — including both a physical and online plan room for members to view plans and specs on projects, and safety services like first aid training and

14 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

The Southern Illinois Builders Association staff, front row: Cassidy Dowling, administrative assistant, Kristin McCaw, office manager, Donna Richter, chief executive officer, Shari Schutzenhofer, administrative assistant, and Logan Ankeny, administrative assistant. Back row: John Holt, director of safety and education, Josh Schaufelberger, director of industry relations, and Joko Tasich, safety training instructor.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) courses — have remained throughout the years, the organization is not Y E A R S immune to external stressors. One recently, she said, was the state’s inability to pass a budget, which left many state roads and buildings neglected, and left many SIBA members with not a lot of work on which to bid.

“With the state of Illinois approving a budget, especially a capital/transportation bill, it’s really going to help our members, because we haven’t had funding for several years,” she said. “So now they’re allocating money that can be used to help

maintain some of these state buildings, help the universities and community colleges to build or renovate projects that they had to put on hold because they didn’t know for sure if there was going to be funding coming from the state.”

Another issue on the forefront is the lack of workers entering the field, what Richter said “could be a very big crisis.”

“The majority of our members — not all of them, but the majority of them — are union, and so they employ union employees, and a lot of those union employees are retiring and we don’t have a lot of the younger generation being pushed toward a career in construction,” she said.

To combat that, SIBA has been hosting construction career expos for more than 20 years. At those, middle school- and high school-aged

children are invited to explore 10 to 14 different crafts at booths featuring hands-on demonstrations and more information.

Looking forward, Richter said the biggest challenge on the horizon is the impact technology will have on builders.

“Technology is something that changes so rapidly, especially in the construction industry,” she said. “Things change all the time, and if you’re not willing to adapt to that and learn these changes, you’re going to see yourself on the back burner.”

As it always has, expect SIBA to roll with the changes and charge ahead toward another 75 years. siba-agc.org 1468 Green Mount Road • O'Fallon (618) 624-9055

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2020 CURRENTS 15

Baxter Distributing Company Baxter’s was at 554 E. Broadway from 1953 to 1976.

Praise for the party people The Riverbend’s longtime provider of party supplies and more, Baxter Distributing Company, is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2020.

Known also simply as Baxter’s, Clifford (Kip) and Lorraine Baxter started the company in 1945 after the local refinery laid off Kip at the end of World War II. The business, originally in the basement of the Baxters’ home, started out selling primarily to local gas stations and grocery stores, providing sundries such as aspirin, toothpaste, and hand cream.

As the Baxters’ business grew, they relocated in 1952 to 1725 E. Broadway in Alton, the first of three eventual locations.

Here, they were able to expand their product line to sell home appliances and bigger toys, such as trucks and dolls, than they sold at their original home location.

They were only at that location for one year before expansion required another move, this

16 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

time to 554 E. Broadway, where they remained until 1976. Here, the Baxters were able to expand their product line even more.

“We sold small toys, had wedding rental, snow cones, a cotton candy YEARS maker, plastic flowers, plates, cups, napkins, crepe paper, and New Year’s hats,” said Bob Baxter, son of Kip and Lorraine Baxter and current owner of Baxter’s Distributing Company. Bob owns and operates the company, along with his wife, Jan, and daughter and son-in-law, Ann and Brandon Fergurson. “Kip and his brother and brother-inlaw would go out and sell New Year’s (products) to almost every bar and tavern in the county.”

In 1976, Baxter’s Distributing Company moved to its current location, where they continue to provide products and rentals for the Riverbend.

“We sell silk flowers and rent wedding candelabras, tables, and chairs,” Bob Baxter said.

“Popcorn production has increased, along with the sale of concession stand items.

We also rent carnival games and a wide variety of props.

The party decorations are quite big now, too. Everything from Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s, Halloween, and your general birthday ideas.

“Some of the most loyal customers are the area schools, churches, and the factories.”

After Kip Baxter passed away in 1977, his and Lorraine’s children, Janet and Bob, along with their spouses took over the helm of daily operations of the business. Lorraine retired in 1990, after which Baxter’s was owned and operated by her children and their spouses, Bob and Jan Baxter and Janet and Roland Hansen.

In 2018, Janet and Roland Hansen retired, leaving the business to their current owners, Bob and Jan Baxter, and their daughter and sonin-law, Ann and Brandon Fergurson.

In 2012, Bob and Jan Baxter’s children, Michael Baxter and Ann Baxter-Fergurson, along with husband, Brandon Fergurson, started a website for the store. Brandon Fergurson took over the website in 2014, and it has proven to be a success.

Those at Baxter’s Distributing Company are aware they would not have had the success they have enjoyed over the last 75 years if it were not for their loyal customers.

“Something we hope to do to show our appreciation is to possibly do a customer appreciation day,” Bob Baxter said. “We appreciate all the past customers for their support, and to the future customers, we are here for your party needs.” baxterspartystore.com 912 E. Broadway • Alton (618) 465-9347

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2020 CURRENTS 17

Alton Symphony Orchestra

M

Classical continuity

embers of the Alton Symphony Orchestra have been making music together for 75 years. And with strong leadership, talented musicians and financial benefactors, it can continue another 75, at least.

Symphony was founded to further the musical opportunities for area youth.

For the past decade, some students have been chosen to play two selections in a sideby-side concert with ASO.

“Ninety percent of the 50 orchestra members are volunteer,” said Steve McCann, president of ASO’s board of directors. “We played music in school and just wanted to keep playing.

Alton Symphony Orchestra gives us that opportunity.”

McCann, who plays percussion in the orchestra, also YEARS performed with the AYS and remembers it as a positive experience, one echoed by today’s parents.

Alton Symphony Orchestra began in 1945 when a group of musicians came together to play for fellowship and the love of making music. Dr. Frank Boals served as the board’s president for 41 years; Dr. Bethuel Gross served as the orchestra’s conductor and music director from 1945-1948.

Little is known about the orchestra’s early years but around 1969, the Alton Youth

18 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

“I’ve had parents tell me that playing with the orchestra was their child’s highlight as a member of the youth symphony,” he said.

Conductor Shane Williams, Concertmaster Vincent Piazza and Alton Symphony Orchestra Board President Steve McCann [photos by Tom Honke] said. “As many as 20 or 25 students audition, and we listen nonstop until 5 or 6 p.m.”

In 1984, ASO started the Marie Stillwell Young Artists’ Competition. Besides receiving a monetary award to further their musical education, winners get the chance to perform in concert with the Alton Symphony Orchestra.

In 2012, the symphony was in financial straits. According to a St. Louis Post-Dispatch article that year, its expenses were twice its projected income that season. ASO’s bylaws prohibit running deficits, and the orchestra was in danger of having to close its doors.

“The talent we get is absolutely incredible,” McCann

“A cry went out to the

community and people stepped up,” McCann said.

Today, with support from sponsors, grants and an annual trivia night fundraiser, ASO is financially in a healthier place.

“Jerre Honke, the board’s previous president, played

an enormous part in that,” McCann said.

they have to hire musicians,” McCann said.

Honke said ASO is grateful for the donations and sponsorships from its patrons, including large contributions from John Simmons.

ASO’s audience has been growing and McCann gives conductor Shane Williams, who begins his sixth season July 1, “major kudos.”

“These have enabled us to program larger works that have attracted more audience members as well as orchestra members,” she said.

“Since Shane’s been conductor, our audience has quadrupled in size. His personality, enthusiasm and love of music and the music All concerts are he’s able to Because ASO is bring out of performed in on firmer ground us” is reflected Hatheway Cultural in ticket sales. financially, McCann said Center at Lewis & The orchestra the organization performs at Clark Community the 1,000-seat is able to give back to the College in Godfrey. Hatheway community that Cultural Center has supported in Godfrey. Two it. In 2018, years ago, the balcony had to ASO created the St. Nicholas be opened for the first time.

Scholarship, which awards $250 to two qualified students “We don’t play watered-down in need of financial assistance pieces. We’re playing the for private music lessons. same level of music as the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra McCann also wants to work performs,” McCann said. with local parochial schools.

A new instrumental program “I’d like to say we’re on the is starting at St. Mary’s grade same caliber as St. Louis, but I school and he envisions a can’t. What I can say, though, is coordinated program where that many of our concertgoers students can continue their have said, ‘I don’t need to go musical instruction if they to St. Louis because we have a move on to Marquette Catholic top-quality symphony here.’”

High School. altonsymphonyorchestra.org “Marquette had their annual PO Box 1205 • Alton • (618) 792-4002 play last spring and performed ‘Sister Act.’ They don’t have an instrumental program there, so

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Eastgate rising “I remember going to the movies and walking over to Pantera’s,” East Alton native Todd Kennedy says. “To just sit and watch 30 years of neglect happen ... if we wouldn’t have bought it when we did, in two or three years it would probably have needed to be knocked down.”

With Kennedy's purchase of Eastgate Plaza in the fall of 2018, not only did his family stop the destruction of the strip mall, they have truly breathed new life into a struggling prospect. Right away, Kennedy was on a mission to recruit new businesses, estimating the potential for hundreds of new jobs. As a result, the parking lot is now hopping on any given day with customers visiting new restaurants Mr. Pancho's Mexican Grill and J.J. Thermo's, topping off a meal with ice cream at the Blue Ice Creamery, and then working off some calories at Club Fitness and learning more about healthy living at One Nation Nutrition. For entertainment, Jackpot 777 and Riverbend Axe Throwing have joined mainstays AMC Theater, East Alton Ice Arena, Elite Hockey and Dollar General.

Kennedy, who also manages Julia's Banquet Center, says he is in talks with more potential tenants and looks forward to seeing his endeavor continue to grow.

20 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

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2020 CURRENTS 21

The RiverBend Grow YEARS

THE HISTORY

of the

GROWTH ASSOCIATION

T

he members of the Board of Directors of the three groups: Riverbend Economic Development, the Greater Alton Chamber of Commerce and the Twin Rivers Chamber of Commerce unanimously approved consolidating to form the Greater Alton/Twin Rivers Growth Association and began operating January 1, 1985. The founding board members were J. Darrell Burton, John G. Helmkamp, C. J. Jacoby III, William R. Kemp, Terry J. Kohler, Jerry W. Thomas, Paul E. Utterback, Ronald J. Winkler and Eugene V. Wrischnik. James Pennekamp became the first president of the organization. The organization’s name was changed from the RiverBend Growth Association to the Growth Association of Southwestern Illinois and then to the RiverBend Growth Association in 2004.

The RiverBend Growth Association serves as both the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development organization for the communities that make up the RiverBend. It works to promote the region throughout the Midwest and the United States as a prime area for development, highlighting its quality workforce including many young professionals, proximity to a major metropolitan area and an abundant amount of affordable land and available building space.

22 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

Stefanie Withers OFFICE MANAGER

Why do you feel a local chamber of commerce/board of trade is so vital to a community?

We promote our local businesses and economy and help to improve their growth. We are here to open new doors and help our Riverbend business community gain exposure.

Is there a particular memory that stands out for you during your years of involvement with the association?

During the course of the year that I have been part of the RBGA, the one thing that stands out to me is the inclusiveness. It is

a good feeling to know that you are part of something great!

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to spend time with my family. We enjoy going for a Saturday drive up the Great River Road. I am a proud Mckendree University Mom; you will see me in my purple and white, supporting my favorite Bearcat on the baseball field. I also am an avid reader.

Debbie Hagen RESEARCH/PUBLICATIONS MANAGER How did you become involved with the RiverBend Growth Association?

While I was attending Lewis and Clark Community College in 1994, I was asked to intern, and it turned into a full-time position.

Is there a particular memory that stands out for you during your years of involvement with the association?

Being able to see the extension of Illinois 255 through the Riverbend area come to fruition. I attended all of the openings.

What are two things that make the Riverbend unique?

The small town feel and the people.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Watch sports on television, along with anything that my nieces and nephews play. I also like attending live theater, going to yard sales, and spending time with family and friends.

Alex St .

Peters MEMBER COMMUNICATIONS REPRESENTATIVE What are two things that make the Riverbend unique?

One is our geographical location with different economic engines. The Riverbend is a major national and global transportation center that has highways, airways, railways, and waterways...all helping to drive growth. Secondly, our level of support from the community at large, as well.

Do you have any long-term goals for the association?

One I would like to see is the destigmatization of skilled trade jobs. A

lot of our youth have been told over and over again to go to college, and while in some cases that's great, in others we need to make sure they know it is great to be career-ready after high school, too.

What was the last thing you did that forced you out of your comfort zone?

Before the association, I had not had any experience managing a fundraiser. With the Young Adults Committee, I had to go outside of my comfort zone to make sure the fundraiser was a success.

Association

PAST PRESIDENTS

of the

GROWTH ASSOCIATION

John Keller PRESIDENT

Why do you feel a local chamber of commerce/board of trade is so vital to a community?

We help promote our viability as a great place to do business to the region, state, and nationally. We host numerous networking opportunities around the area through the year for our membership to engage in and reap the benfits of their membership.

Is there a particular memory that stands out for you during your years of involvement with the association?

There are many memories, but the most recent is one of the best.

When our annual Duck Race needed to be relocated from Raging Rivers Water Park due to the flooding, the staff worked many hours to change the venue and format in only one week, pulling it off in spectacular fashion!

Although it is a team, everyone at the association represents a distinct finger for the hand as a whole. How would you describe your role?

Team "RBGA" has a hands-on approach to all of our community needs by serving on various boards in the area and involvement with various community organizations that help make the Riverbend a better place to live, work and enjoy, so I would have to say I'd describe mine best as the thumb, as in, "Thumbs up...great job, team!"

Trish Holmes DIRECTOR OF MEMBER SERVICES

1985 - 1989

Jim Pennekamp

1989 - 1990

Riley “Benny” Harris

1990 - 1994

Bill Crews

1994 - 1996

Jim Bowman

1996 - 2002

Don Miller

2002 - 2003

Larry Trent

2003 - 2017

Monica Bristow

2017 - present John Keller

PAST CHAIRMEN

of the

GROWTH ASSOCIATION 1985

David Kilduff Germania Savings & Loan

1986

Jack Helmkamp Illinois State Bank

1987

Fred Wuellner J.J. Wuellner & Son Construction Co.

1988

Terry Kohler Illinois Power

1989

Bill Crews Owens Illinois Glass Co./United Way

1990

J. Darrell Burton Scheffel & Company, P.C.

1991

Chet Ward Landmark Bank

1992

Verla Moyer Moyer Contracting

1993

Mark Kratschmer Central Electric Contracting Inc.

1994

Mark Kratschmer Central Electric Contracting Inc.

1995

Paul Hoover Hoover Chiropractic Clinic

1996

Dale Chapman Lewis and Clark Community College

1997

Dean Sweet Holland, Sweet & Barr

1999

Jesse Hopkins Mercantile Bank

1998

Bill Kessler Saint Anthony’s Health Center

2000

Dwight Werts Werts Welding & Tank Service

2001

Monica Bristow Olin Corporation

How did you become involved with the RiverBend Growth Association?

I began volunteering as an ambassador in 2014. I then started volunteering with the Young Adults Committee as a mentor, all while working at CNB Bank & Trust.

2002

J. Thomas Long First Community Bank of Godfrey

2003

Ted Prehn T.L. Prehn Properties

2004

Pam Heepke Raifort Properties

What trends do you see the local business community heading towards in the next few years?

I see our communities becoming more innovative than ever.

I see us all continuing to work together and growing our region. I see more partnerships in the near future with all of the good things happening.

2005

Paul Lowery Regions Bank

2006

Jim Shrader The Telegraph

Talk a little about the local business owners. How do you think they managed during the flooding challenges this year?

As we cannot control Mother Nature, we can control how we come together and do what it takes to be done to make the most out of any situation - and our community did just that this year during the flooding. We have a great region full of supportive communities. Our local business owners understand the importance of having one another's backs. We can thrive separately, or we can thrive more successfully by working together. "Where there is unity, there is always victory." - Publius Syrus.

2007

Melissa Erker ConocoPhillips Wood River Refinery

2008

Kent Scheffel Lewis and Clark Community College

2009

David Miller St. Louis Regional Airport

2010

Denise Wolff First Clover Leaf Bank

2011

Larry Franklin CNB Bank & Trust, N.A.

2012

Martha Warford Beverly Farm

2013

Jake Bodi Ameren

2014

John Keller Carrollton Bank

2015

Karen Cooper Illinois American Water

2016

Karen Wilson State Farm

2017

Augie Wuellner Alton Securities and Assets

2018

John Roberts Roberts Motors

2019

Rob Schwartz TheBANK of Edwardsville

2020

Brad Goacher Alton Memorial Hospital

2020 CURRENTS 23

The RiverBend Grow Association EVENTS

• Annual Dinner Highlighting the RBGA & its members • Duck Race The largest networking event of the summer • Golf Classic Fundraiser for our Economic Development efforts • Women’s Seminar Build an inclusive business environment and highlight the women leaders of the Riverbend

• State of the RiverBend Luncheon Highlighting the Economic Engines / drivers of the Riverbend • Total Networking Luncheons & Breakfast Connections Attendance at these monthly networking events has more than doubled since 2014 • Business After Hours An informal fun way to network and build relationships with Riverbend businesses & organizations

COMMITTEES

• Ambassador Committee The eyes, ears, and mouth of the organization that helps volunteer at events and tells about the importance of the RBGA • Small Business of the Month Committee Selects the monthly winners • Economic Development & Workforce Training Committee Increasing our ED efforts & currently working to destigmatize career & technical

education for high school students • Emerging Leaders & Diversity Committee Finding a way to bring emerging & established leaders together to help emerging leaders develop their skills & established leaders learn more about the workforce today • Young Adults Committee Student representatives consist of area high school districts who volunteer at five different non-profits throughout the year & a fundraiser

PAST & CURRENT PROJECTS

• IL 255 Study • Phillips 66 economic impact study • Extension of enterprise zone boundaries • Database of available sites & building profiles across the Riverbend

24 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

• Meetings with developers about the region • Be the voice of Riverbend businesses in Springfield & D.C. • Work with municipalities on TIF programs

The RBGA team ahead of its annual Duck Race at Raging Rivers WaterPark.

The RBGA team traveled to Springfield for Chamber Day at the Capitol in March 2019.

PURSUING YOUR DEGREE REGIONALLY IS CONVENIENT, ACCESSIBLE AND TAILORMADE TO YOUR LIFESTYLE. • Undergraduate programs include: Human Services Accounting Behavioral Science Management Sports Management Criminal Justice Health Science • Earn your associate degree and bridge over to MBU with maximum transfer credit • Save money by paying the lower LCCC tuition rate for up to 3 years of your bachelor’s program • Graduate programs include: Master of Business Administration Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master of Arts in School Counseling Master of Arts in School Counseling with concentration in Clinical Mental Health

By working with local municipalities and state government officials, the RiverBend Growth Association brought many employers and hundreds of jobs to the Riverbend region. The organization, made up of small and large businesses, school districts, manufacturers and labor organizations gave us the right mix to be a powerful voice for our region. During my tenure at the RBGA, we saw many changes in the region, in technology and the workforce; but the constant was being a respected organization across the state and country. The RBGA has a rich history and a bright future.

Visit us online at mobap.edu/lccc for more information. lccc@mobap.edu | 618.468.2621

Monica Bristow

PAST PRESIDENT OF RIVERBEND GROWTH ASSOCIATION

2020 CURRENTS 25

that Patrick Loechl We are pleased to announce Branch Manager, We are pleased to announce that Patrick Loechl First Vice President thatAPatrick Loechl FAMILY TRADITION Branch Manager, has joined Fleming Branch Manager, WeWe areOur pleased to announce familypleased has been serving this with are tocommunity announce First Vice President all phases of funeral service since 1935.

Be assured Fleming & Loechl Wealth that Patrick Loechl First President ourthat standardsPatrick ofVice dignity and service with quality, competitively priced Loechl merchandise continues. has joined Fleming Branch Manager, Management Group has joined Fleming of Branch Manager, We are pleased to announce First Vice President Fleming & Loechl Wealth Fleming & Loechl Wealth Wells Fargo Advisors that Patrick Loechl First Vice President has joined Fleming Branch Manager, 2409 State, Alton of Management Group Management Group of has joined Fleming Fleming Loechl Wealth 618-466-5544 First Vice&President Wells Fargo Advisors Fleming & Loechl Wealth Management Group of matters What matters to you, to us has joined Fleming Wells Fargo Advisors Fourth generation of family ownership

Fleming & Loechl Wealth Wells Fargo Advisors Management Group of

Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors Wells Fargo What matters you,tomatters to us What matters to Advisors you,to matters us From left, first row Kathy Fleming (Financial Advisor), Patty Schwartz (Client Associate), Carolyn Schaus (Client Associate), Tim Brueggeman (Financial Advisor), Tom Fleming (Financial Consultant) From left, second row Patrick Loechl (Branch Manager), Robert Stegemeier From left, first row Kathy Fleming (Financial Advisor), Patty Schwartz (Client Associate), Carolyn SchausAdvisor), (Client Associate), (Financial Dan Morrissey 112 W.Consultant) Homer Adams Tim Brueggeman (Financial Advisor), Tom Fleming (Financial From left,Pkwy. second row PatrickAdvisor), Loechl (Branch (Financial Mary Hires (Financial Advisor) Manager), Robert Stegemeier (Financial112 Advisor), DanAdams Morrissey (Financial Advisor), Mary Hires (Financial Advisor) W. Homer Pkwy.

112 W. Homer Adams Pkwy.

Alton, IL 62002 Alton, 62002 Phone:IL 618-466-0011 From left, first row Kathy Fleming (Financial Advisor), Patty Schwartz (Client Associate), Carolyn Schaus (Client Associate), Alton, IL 62002 112 W.Consultant) Homer Adams Tim Brueggeman (Financial Advisor), Tom Fleming (Financial From left,Pkwy. second618-466-0011 row Patrick Loechl (Branch Phone: 112 W. Homer Adams Pkwy. patrick.loechl@wellsfargoadvisors.com Manager), Robert Stegemeier (Financial Advisor), Dan Morrissey Alton, 62002 Advisor), Mary Hires (Financial Advisor) Phone:IL(Financial 618-466-0011 patrick.loechl@wellsfargoadvisors.com Alton, IL 62002 618-466-0011 home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/001_A344 112 W. Homer Adams Pkwy. Phone: patrick.loechl@wellsfargoadvisors.com 112 W. Homer Adams Pkwy. home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/001_A344 Phone: 618-466-0011 patrick.loechl@wellsfargoadvisors.com Alton, 62002 From left,ILfirst row Kathy Fleming (Financial Advisor), Patty Schwartz (Client Associate), Carolyn Schaus (Client Associate), home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/001_A344 Alton, IL 62002 home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/001_A344 Phone: 618-466-0011 112 W.Consultant) Homer Adams Tim Brueggeman (Financial Advisor), Tom Fleming (Financial From left,Pkwy. second row Patrick Loechl (Branch https://home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/001_A344 https://home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/001_A344 Manager), Robert Stegemeier (Financial Advisor), Dan Morrissey Alton, 62002 Advisor), Mary Hires (Financial Advisor) Phone:IL(Financial 618-466-0011 Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Insured NO Bank Guarantee Investment Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Insured Bank LoseLose ValueValue Investment and Products: NOTFDIC FDIC Insured NONO Bank Guarantee Lose ValueGuarantee MAYMAY Investment andInsurance Insuranceand Products: NOT Insured Bank Guarantee MAYMAY LoseNO Value Phone: 618-466-0011 112 W. Homer Adams Pkwy. patrick.loechl@wellsfargoadvisors.com Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered brokerWells FargoIL Advisors is a trade name used by Wellsname Fargo Clearing LLC, Member SIPC, aServices, registeredLLC, brokerpatrick.loechl@wellsfargoadvisors.com Wells Fargo Advisors isa atrade trade used byServices, Wells Fargo Clearing Member SIPC, a registered brokerAlton, 62002 Wells Fargo Advisors isFargo name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, dealer and nonbank affiliate of Wells & Company. © 2012 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.LLC, Member SIPC, a registered brokerhome.wellsfargoadvisors.com/001_A344 dealer and nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

2012 Wells Fargo Clearing LLC. All rightsClearing reserved. Services, LLC. All rights reserved. dealer nonbank affiliate of Wells© Fargo & Company. ©Services, 2012 Wells Fargo 1116-00738 A1255and IHA-545322 0419-00475 home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/001_A344 Phone: 618-466-0011 dealer andIHA-545322 nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2012 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

1116-00738 A1255 1116-00738 A1255 IHA-545322 0419-00475 1116-00738 A1255 IHA-545322 https://home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/001_A344 Investment and Investment andInsurance InsuranceProducts: Products:

NOTFDIC FDICInsured Insured NONO Bank GuaranteeMAYMAY NOT Bank Guarantee LoseLose ValueValue

Personalized home loans to fit your needs Wells Fargo Advisorsis isa atrade tradename nameused used by

by Wells LLC,LLC, Member SIPC,SIPC, a registered brokerWells Fargo Advisors WellsFargo FargoClearing ClearingServices, Services, Member a registered brokerdealer and nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2012 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. dealer and nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2012 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

1116-00738 A1255 IHA-545322 0419-00475 1116-00738 A1255 IHA-545322

We’re your home loan partner!NMLS #458701 Low downpayment options • Variety of terms • Competitive rates • Local service

NMLS #458701

618-258-4575 • 800-345-4216 www.1stMidAmerica.org

26 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

A flood of support This summer, record flooding once again hit the region, threatening to derail tourism dollars and the progress of small business. But as in years past, the Riverbend community rallied and proved to be a force stronger than Mother Nature. Business owners not directly affected by the floodwaters stepped up to help comrades whose downtown Alton buildings and livelihood were at risk, and scores of volunteers

turned out to fill sandbags in Grafton and Alton and help with the flood wall to keep the Mighty Mississippi at bay.

Today, Alton and Grafton's downtown districts are once again thriving and filled with both locals and visitors walking the dry streets, thanks to the efforts of a kinship unified by community pride.

Representatives from 1st MidAmerica Credit Union, Black’s Sporting Goods, Imperial Manufacturing Group, Riverbender.com, Schwartzkopf Printing Company, and RiverBend Growth Association came together to present the Alton Fire Department a check of $3,000 to help with future flooding issues. The money raised from sales of a commemorative flood t-shirt was used to purchase a 64,000-Lumens Reese Hitch Tower Light.

2020 CURRENTS 27

TOP EMPLOYERS (by employee count) - RIVERBEND REGION, ILLINOIS Manufacturer & Distributor of copper and copper-alloy sheet, strip, plate, foil, rod and fabricated components

wieland.com

878

Petroleum Refining

p66.com

835

Health Services

altonmemorialhospital.org

832

Manufacturer of chlor alkali products and Winchester ammunition

olin.com

816

Elementary and Secondary Education

altonschools.org

806

Health Services

osfhealthcare.org/saint-anthonys/

733

Mechanical contractors

grpmech.com

650

higher education institution w/ multiple campuses, a river research center, community education centers & training centers

lc.edu

641

Help at Home LLC

Home health care service

helpathome.com

565

West Star Aviation

Airframe and engine repair and maintenance, complete FBO for St. Louis Regional Airport

weststaraviation.com

540

provider of work related opportunities to individuals with disabilities

cuinc.org

433

Home & Training Center for people with developmental disabilities

beverlyfarm.org

429

Wieland Rolled Products North America Phillips 66 Wood River Refinery Alton Memorial Hospital Olin Corporation Alton Community Unit School District #11 OSF Healthcare Saint Anthony's Health Center GRP Mechanical Company, Inc. Lewis and Clark Community College

Challenge Unlimited Beverly Farm Foundation Compiled by RiverBend Growth Association 08-2019

source: listed companies

Financial Solutions for every step along the way.

BANKING | INSURANCE WEALTH MANAGEMENT

New Location!

ALTON

111 E. 4th Street 618-619-1200

WOOD RIVER

1046 Madison Avenue 618-254-8445

firstmid.com 28 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

Utilize Over 67 Years of Experience From a Leader in • Housing • Senior Living • Historic Renovation • Educational • Commercial Construction

618-466-3112

Serving the Riverbend since 1958 Sales, Service, Parts & Collision Center Home of the repeat customer where generations make their vehicle purchase.

ALTON 1620 E. Homer Adams Pkwy 888-378-5955 QualityGMcars.com

JERSEYVILLE 102 Sinclair 618-639-8881 QualityAutoNetwork.com

King Factory Authorized Dealer

Heating & Cooling Systems

705 Southmoor Place, Godfrey MorrisseyConstruction.com

AIR CONDITIONING & Heating

618-466-7574

BUSH REFRIGERATION HEATING & COOLING

618-467-0177

COMMERCIAL

• Ice machines • Walk-in coolers • Kitchen equipment • Beverage coolers

7020 Ingham Lane, Godfrey

West Star Aviation is proud to make St. Louis Regional Airport the home of its national headquarters because of the central location, ease of access, quality facilities and long heritage of aviation service.

Voted #1 MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) Facility for six consecutive years in Professional Pilot’s Annual PRASE Survey, the experience and dedication of their employees has made West Star a stand-out leader in the aircraft maintenance industry, as well as the Riverbend community.

For more information, please visit www.weststaraviation.com.

WESTSTARAVIATION.COM 2020 CURRENTS 29

•Respect •Honor •Remember

Elias, Kallal & Schaaf

Doctors of Audiology,

Hearing much more than just a hearing aid store.

Call today to start your journey to improved hearing!

Healthcare Excellence!

Providing professional audiology services to the local community for 27 years

Dr. Joe Hopper, FAAA Doctor of Audiology

Dr. Michelle Cramer, FAAA Doctor of Audiology

Godfrey, IL 1344 D’Adrian Professional Park 618-466-4444 Jerseyville, IL Jersey Community Hospital 400 Maple Summit Rd 618-466-4444 Chester, IL Memorial Hospital ProfessionalHearingAssociates.com 618-826-4581

Proud to Partner for Purpose and Progress

Funeral Home

Caring for those you care for...

eliaskallalandschaaf.com

2521 Edwards Street Alton 618-465-3571 1313 W Delmar Ave Godfrey 618-466-3573 727 E. Bethalto Blvd Bethalto 618-377-4000

State Representative 111th District

Since we first opened our doors, we’ve reinvested in our communities one project at a time. From financial guidance and support to energetic volunteers and committed leaders, we’re committed to improving the quality of life in the communities we serve.

Busey proudly welcomes TheBANK of Edwardsville to our suite of financial services.

Born and raised in Godfrey, I have spent all my life in the beautiful Riverbend area.

I am a mother of two, grandmother, and wife. busey.com/welcome Member FDIC

30 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

102 W. 9th Street, Ste 104, Alton • 618-465-5900 repmbristow@gmail.com • /repmbristow

RETAIL SALES - RIVERBEND REGION, ILLINOIS

2018 478,097,056 $

East Alton

$

52,182,988

94,777,166

$

52,963,969

$

$

1,035,181

54,168,946

$

56,015,788

$

17,937,312

$

27,347,584

$

17,232,353

$

$

11,333,641

$

12,067,736

$

10,606,418

$

Hartford

$

Roxana S. Roxana

$

316,486,553

$

9,696,670

$

298,760,877

$

1,217,606,813

1,195,346,680

$

$

1,370,165

$

179,974,472

176,709,873

$

$

17,424,607

$

15,141,794

$

15,138,450

$

14,710,378

$

11,132,852

$

10,826,433

$

8,987,934

$

10,006,852

15,985,577 30,477,733

11,566,435 10,916,988

$

295,171,238

$

1,184,574,837

$

$

56,478,477

907,345

185,003,273

$

$

91,473,873

$

$

18,938,548

Grafton

Wood River

$

955,884

193,516,946

$

96,677,415

$

$

499,199,061

$

$

783,708

$

2014

90,491,687

$

202,761,085

Godfrey

2015

514,776,155

$

$

$

Elsah

505,081,048

$

98,817,759

Bethalto

2016

497,609,943

$

Alton

TOTAL

2017

292,594,467

284,534,105

$

1,190,612,181

$

1,178,712,287

$

source: Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs

ert

2,090

$

61,131

77,991 28,934 $150,281 36.37

27.00

64,729 27,264

6,495

4,983

57,724

6,570

33.00

5,568

399

266

$

149,736 30.75

2,181

ow

pov

2,663

1,893

en ildr / ch

sw ilie

Fam

7,213

$

bel

#

wp

Fam

ilie

sb

elo

/ ch sw

Fam

ilie

y

pov ove

rty

at o en ildr

bov or a

s at Fam

ilie

r ab

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in m ork

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#

tes inu

or h ree Tra v

el t

oci Ass

17,399

Ow

25.88

Me

%w

ith

ove

er igh

ing ous ate

Deg

dia Me ied

ner

-Oc

cup

pie ccu er O

Ren t

nH

Un ing

ous dH

Hou ied

cup -Oc

Ow

ner

its

nits sin

me nco ld I eho

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9,580

110,012 30.53

Madison Co. 269,282 264,822 40.41 106,925 2.44 2.47

50,849 22,024

$

$

8,463

ous

seh Hou

age Ave r

2.34

Jersey Co. 22,985 21,749 43.44

e Siz old

(20 hol use Tot a

l Ho

nA ge

ds

19 e Me

dia

(20 on

lati Pop u

31,604

gU

ate) stim 19 e

ate) stim

us) ens 10 c (20 on lati

41.10

Pop u

Riverbend 78,697 75,463

#

#

Val u

ert

e

y

DEMOGRAPHICS - RIVERBEND REGION, ILLINOIS

All data is 2019 estimate unless noted otherwise

PLUMBERS & PIPE FITTERS LOCAL UNION 553 Affiliated with the United Association, AFL-CIO Herbert Frohock III Business Manager Financial Secretary-Treasurer

2 South Wesley Drive, East Alton IL 62024 618-259-6787 -and-

Midwest Illinois Mechanical Contractor Association

Brett Schwalb Business Representative

France Mechanical, Inc. G.R.P. Mechanical, Inc. Heise Plumbing & Htg. Inspector Plumber Kane Mechanical, Inc. Loellke Plumbing, Inc. Jen Mechanical, Inc. Accurate Plumbing

Bart Schwalb President

617-656-3202 618-258-9000 217-324-3991 618-466-2199 618-254-0681 618-498-5185 618-433-1720 618-259-2230

Extra, Extra Entertainment Events THE 86TH SEASON

There’s something EVERYONE at the Schoolfor Secrets SEPTEMBERat 26TH - 28TH, 2019 86th Season the Showplace!

CallLoving 618-462-3205 tickets! the Lincolnfor Legacy OCTOBER 11TH, 2019

Terry Barber 2020 CURRENTS 31

NOVEMBER 10TH, 2019

LABOR FORCE - RIVERBEND REGION, ILLINOIS MADISON, MACOUPIN & JERSEY COUNTIES

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

Labor Force

168,648

167,454

169,262

168,007

166,692

Employed

160,902

159,650

159,285

157,742

154,826

Unemployed

7,746

7,804

9,977

10,265

11,866

Unemployment Rate

4.8%

4.7%

5.9%

6.2%

7.2%

source: Illinois Department of Employment Security

Volunteers with

Heart

• FREE ESTIMATES • GARAGES • FARM BUILDINGS • EQUESTRIAN RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

We also offer a wide variety of

PORTABLE BUILDINGS!

618-466-6337 buildwithcountryside.com

7107 Montclair Ave • Godfrey • Hours M-F 9-5

618.466.5632 medresources.com

32 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

ially?

Accepting Major Insurances & Medicare 2350 State Street• Alton

81

46

4.

Board Certified Orthotist Physical & Respiratory Therapists, Nurses & Licensed Dietitian on Staff

84

• Orthotics • Lift Chairs • Scooters • Wheelchairs • Oxygen • Hospital Beds • Diabetic Supplies • Bathroom Safety • Ambulatory Aids • Sleep Therapy - CPAP

ourse n a

nc

c on

Are yo u

From Equestrian to Events Join us in changing (618) 466-0367 • www.beverlyfarm.org livesILin the Riverbend! www.beverlyfarm.org-6301 Humbert Rd., Godfrey,

7.3

3.

88

Celebrating 120 years of service.

Thank you to all who helped make it possible!

It’s a great time to build with Countryside!

298 | 618.43

Navigating River Bend investors for 33 years

Join us for our monthly Video Series ® discussing navigation.

Jamesfinancial Claywell, AAMS Financial Advisor | Owner, CAM

James Claywell, AAMS®

Financial Advisor | Owner, CAM

James Claywell, AAMS®

Financial Advisor | Owner, CAM

3014 Godfrey Road O 844.467.3298 | T 618.433.8881 Suite B, Godfrey 3014 Godfrey Road, Suite B | Godfrey, IL 62035 James.Claywell@RaymondJames.com O 844.467.3298 | T 618.433.8881 www.raymondjames.com/claywellassetmanagement

3014 Godfrey Road, Suite B |ofGodfrey, IL 62035 Claywell Asset Management is not a registered Broker/Dealer and is independent Raymond James Claywell Asset Management is not a Broker/Dealer.

Financial Services. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. James.Claywell@RaymondJames.com Securities offered through Raymond James Investment advisory services offFinancial ered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Services, Inc., member www.raymondjames.com/claywellassetmanagement

O 844.467.3298 | T 618.433.8881 FINRA/SIPC. 3014 Godfrey Road, Suite B | Godfrey, IL 62035

James.Claywell@RaymondJames.com www.raymondjames.com/claywellassetmanagement Claywell Asset Management is not a Broker/Dealer.

Claywell Asset Management is not a Broker/Dealer.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC.

Nautilus

Retirement Living, Family Style.

FITNESS CENTER

The Area’s Finest Fitness Facility LOCALLY OWNED

•Classes•Pool•Personal Training•Equipment

Join our Villa Rose family!

4425 Industrial Drive, Alton•618-466-9115 NautilusAlton.com

Experience A Place You Can Call Home Be Our Guest Have a Look Explore Our Community Stay For Lunch!

618-377-3239

Villa Rose Senior Living Community 401 S. Moreland Rd. • Bethalto

villaroseslc.com

EXPERIENCE THE THRILLS AT THE AREA’S PREMIER WATERPARK...

RAGING RIVERS IS PERFECT FOR YOUR SUMMERTIME GROUP EVENT. Call for details on special rates and packages.

Raging Rivers is open late May through Labor Day.

ON THE GREAT RIVER ROAD IN GRAFTON 618-786-2345 ragingrivers.com

Celebrating 30 years serving the Greater Alton area.

LUB e!

Ray’,SOnCe Low Pric E L T d BU Every

Open 7 Days A Week

Become a Butler’s Club member! h

Was

Alton MultispeciAlists

37

Team Medicine in Support Of Personal Care

463-8500

463-1181

#2 St. Anthony’s Way 618-463-8500 Alton, IL 62002

One Professional Drive Alton, IL 62002

One Professional Drive | Alton altondoctors.com www.altondoctors.com

618-462-7411

1706 Homer Adams Pkwy. Alton 2020 CURRENTS 33

A

lton businesses include the area’s major employers such as Argosy Casino, American Water, Alton Memorial Hospital and OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center, both continuing to improve their respective campuses. The local school district is also a major employer serving the residents of ALTON, Godfrey and Foster Township. Along with these major employers, Alton has a plethora of small businesses working for the betterment and future of the city.

HIGH-SPEED RAIL The stop and start location for the St. Louis to Chicago highspeed rail. The $25 million Alton Regional Multi-Modal Transportation Center solidifies Alton as a transportation hub in the area and serves the residents of the St. Louis Metropolitan area north of Interstate 270. Development of the 35 acres surrounding the facility will bring new business opportunities and revenue growth to the City of Alton in the near future.

RECREATION ACTIVITIES Gordon Moore Park – home to a one-of-a-kind playground that is universally accessible and inclusive for children of all abilities to play on, adult softball leagues, recreational baseball and softball teams,

25,772

10,980

$

Households

Median Household Income

36.10

2.30

$

Population (2019 estimate) Median Age

Average Household Size

all part of a $2.2 million renovation project Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater offers everything from community theater

41,282 89,995

Owner-Occupied Median Housing Value

productions to food festivals to concerts by national acts.

16 City Parks comprise more than 1,400 acres of ball fields, soccer fields, tennis courts, and playgrounds

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.

The Alton Fire Department

34 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

now offers ambulance operations. This critical service allows fire department paramedics to provide uninterrupted patient care from bedside to emergency room.

SMALL BUSINESS REVOLUTION Alton was selected as the Season Three winner of Deluxe Corporation’s Small Business Revolution. Six businesses and the City were rewarded with a share of $500,000 for business upgrades, marketing and other services. cityofaltonil.com

T

he Village of BETHALTO is located not only at the intersection of State Routes 140 and 111 but also has Illinois Route 255 on its west side.

Chartered as a Village in 1869, today it has nearly 10,000 residents and is celebrating its 150th anniversary.

LOCAL AIRPORT This growing community is home to the St. Louis Regional Airport, a general aviation reliever airport averaging 80,000 operations a year. The airport's complete Fixed Based Operator (FBO), West Star Aviation, has 540 employees and recently constructed a new $5 million hangar.

AMENITIES • Newly renovated public library, a Boys and Girls Club, a new modern splash park, tennis and basketball courts, numerous parks and playgrounds, historical museum with an original log cabin circa 1860 on site, and an Arboretum with a new trail and lighting system • The trail through the Arboretum is the first phase of a Village-wide trail system that will eventually connect to the Madison County Trail System.

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS • Annual Labor Day Weekend Homecoming in Central Park created over 90 years ago to celebrate the return of Military Service Members from World War I • Family Fun Day in September at Bryant Park is a familycentric afternoon consisting of bounce houses, children’s activities, music, food • The holiday season is highly celebrated with the Bethalto Spirit’s 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

SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS • Sports complex consists of three soccer fields, a football field and nine baseball and softball fields that provide a home to the Civic Memorial High School baseball and softball teams and Bethalto’s American Legion Baseball Team.

New amenities include four parking lots and a concession/restroom building

9,572

3,982

$

Households

Median Household Income

41.34

2.39

$

Population (2019 estimate) Median Age

Average Household Size

developments including single-family homes and condominiums are available.

Options for senior living include two newly constructed

65,654 147,548

Owner-Occupied Median Housing Value

facilities adding to the two existing communities and private condominiums. bethalto.com

• Southside Park houses four baseball fields and hosts Bethalto’s youth recreational baseball and football programs

HOUSING A mix of new residential

2020 CURRENTS 35

the region: Olin Corporation and Wieland Rolled Products North America. These corporations are located on the banks of the Mississippi River adjacent to Lock and Dam 26 along IL Rt. 3. Fischer Lumber Company is a family owned business that has been providing building materials to the community for over 75 years. East Alton is located 10 minutes from St Louis Regional Airport and within an hour of Lambert- St. Louis International Airport; East Alton is a prime location for busy business and recreational travelers.

T EAST ALTON he Village of

is centrally located in the Riverbend and is a short distance from many key educational facilities and businesses, including Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Lewis & Clark Community College, and St. Louis Regional Airport.

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 over 6,000 residents, covering approximately 5.7 square miles with a unique blend of residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

6,301

2,517

$

Households

Median Household Income

40.42

2.26

$

Population (2019 estimate) Median Age

Average Household Size

East Alton is comprised of single-family homes, several multi-family apartments and two high-rise apartments.

Serving the citizens of the Village has always been a top priority for East Alton. The men and women of the East

WELCOME TO

42,146 93,113

Owner-Occupied Median Housing Value

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 community.

Adding to its appeal, East Alton is served within close proximity by Alton’s two hospitals.

The Village of East Alton is also home to a wide variety of businesses including two of the largest employers in

36 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

Located in the newly redeveloped Eastgate Plaza, the East Alton Ice Arena is the only ice 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. Eastgate Plaza is also the home of the AMC 6-plex movie theatre, the new 30,000 square foot Club Fitness that is open 24 hours, and Riverbend Axe Throwing. In addition to these recreational and entertainment facilities Eastgate Plaza features Mr. Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant and Grill, JJ Thermos Bar and Grill, and the Blue Ice Creamery.

In the center of town, Wilshire Village Shopping Center has several ready to occupy spaces available for rent. The center has a Dollar General and a Subway Restaurant as its anchor tenants.

East Alton is a wonderful place to call “home”. We are a community that is very welcoming; stop in and visit us sometime! eastaltonvillage.org

L

ocated on the Great River Road between Alton and Grafton, the Village of ELSAH offers scenic views paired with a vibrant history. The Village is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Residents enjoy its friendly, peaceful neighborhoods and strong sense of community and easily commute for both work and play to Alton, Jerseyville and St. Louis.

Children attend quality schools in the Jersey Community School District.

SET IN STONE 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.”

TOP SCENIC SPOT Elsah was recently named the No. 1 Scenic Spot in Illinois in a statewide vote sponsored by the Illinois Bicentennial Commission and the StateJournal Register. The honor is evident in the limestone buildings, vibrant

colors and narrow streets nestled between towering bluffs on the Mississippi River.

The Mott Commercial Building, one of Elsah’s many historic buildings, was purchased by the Village of Elsah. It has been completely renovated and is now available for a restaurateur or other business looking for a new home.

Elsah is the perfect location to shop, stay, explore and plan your next event.

SHOP The Village is home

to Elsah General Store. A visit to the Elsah General Store is like taking a step back in time.

Built in the 1870s, this beautiful little shop was home to a thriving dry goods business in the Village’s early days and now captures the feeling of a simpler time while offering groceries, old-fashioned candies, vintage bottled sodas and more.

Other shopping opportunities include: Jeremiah’s resale shop; The Look Factory, a unique clothing boutique; Merchant on Mill, a home décor shop; The Sisters of Elsah, an art studio; Peace Works-A Market with a Mission and Green Tree Inn on-site antique shop.

STAY at one of our two

cozy Bed and Breakfasts: The Green Tree Inn (greentreeinnelsah.

666

209

$

Households

Median Household Income

30.66

2.37

$

Population (2019 estimate) Median Age

67,012

Average Household Size

com) or the Maple Leaf Cottage Inn (mapleleafcottageinn.com).

Check out their websites for details about each inn and to book a stay. You can also stay at one of the AirBnBs located in Elsah.

EXPLORE Be sure to take time to visit our Village Museum, take a scenic drive through Principia College to enjoy the breathtaking views

177,960

Owner-Occupied Median Housing Value

or take a relaxing stroll through the Village.

EVENTS Elsah is a perfect

location to host your wedding, family reunion, showers, or other special event. Plan your wedding at the Green Tree Inn gazebo or the Historic Methodist Church. Farley’s Music Hall is available for rental for wedding receptions, showers or other events. escapetoelsah.com

Welcome to

ELSAH 2020 CURRENTS 37

S

ee your future in a community presenting the conveniences of a major metropolitan area, while enjoying the small town charm for any stage of life. With GODFREY’s connection to Interstate 255, a quick drive has you in downtown St. Louis within 25 minutes. Make the speedy commute to work, a Cardinals baseball game, big-city entertainment venues and shopping; then, return home to a quiet neighborhood and the serenity of Godfrey’s natural vistas, bike and walking trails, excellent park system, educational opportunities and quality of life.

Have the assurance that you live in a community that provides

many alternatives for your child’s educational development. Take advantage of the Alton school system’s modern facilities, both at the primary and secondary levels. Take an active role in your child’s development with a school system that welcomes parental involvement through its many clubs and organizations.

If a private school experience is preferred for your child, Godfrey affords several faithbased institutions ranging from Catholic, Evangelical to Lutheran alternatives.

Benefit from vast opportunities for personal development offered by educational systems that are second to none. Whether you want to earn a two- or four-year

degree, a post-graduate degree, or earn a professional certificate in a skill of your choice, you are minutes away from two world class institutions of Lewis and Clark Community College and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. In addition to the formal programming offered by these institutions, both provide a broad array of continuing education and cultural programming designed to broaden one’s horizons.

Godfrey offers a vast array of recreational opportunities.

Experience the Village’s modern and excellently maintained parks. Adorned with trails, lighted fields, lakes for fishing, pavilions for family get togethers, extensive multifunction playground equipment, disc golf course and family-based activity programming, Godfrey’s four parks are at your doorstep and beckon you to refresh your

Feel secure raising your family in a safe environment where the incidence of crime is one of the lowest in Illinois. Reside in neighborhoods where you know your neighbors and they know you. And, as you move about the community, you can have confidence in the safety of you and your family.

Whether young or “not-soyoung,” you will appreciate the many amenities that Godfrey offers, a wonderful place to live, work and play.

“You can see your future from here.” godfreyil.org

18,123

7,388

$

Households

Median Household Income

46.48

2.39

$

Population (2019 estimate) Median Age

38 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

body and soul. For the golf enthusiast, three professionalgrade 18-hole courses are minutes away. If it is boating, fishing or hunting, Godfrey boasts of nearly five miles of shoreline along the “Mighty Mississippi.”

Average Household Size

65,371 154,011

Owner-Occupied Median Housing Value

• Available options range from upscale condominiums and villas to beautiful historic homes with many options including a remarkable view of the riverfront.

FOR AGES 3 TO 103 Visitors can fish, boat, bird watch, shoot photography, visit a waterpark, drink and dine, or zip line. Grafton even offers an ice skating rink when the weather cools off. Lighthouse Park is a beautiful, kid-friendly attraction to the riverfront, offering an 18-foot long turtle sculpture and the largest flagpole on the Mississippi River and Great American Loop.

F

eaturing history reaching back for generations and plenty of 19th century architecture, GRAFTON lies between the Illinois and Mississippi rivers, with majestic limestone bluffs running the length of the National Scenic Byway along Route 100.

AWARDS • The drive through Grafton has been named one of the ten greatest drives in the nation.

683

287

$

Households

Median Household Income

50.31

2.35

$

Population (2019 estimate) Median Age

Average Household Size

• Two Governor Home Town Awards for quality of life.

HOUSING • City-owned lots are offered as part of an incentive program

44,671 174,513

Owner-Occupied Median Housing Value

to attract young professional couples who want to start families here and enroll their children in a state of the art grade school.

DEVELOPMENTS The SkyTour including open air and enclosed handicap accessible lifts transports passengers from Grove Memorial Park on a 10-12-minute ride to the beautiful Aerie’s Resort. A citywide trolley is Grafton's first form of public transportation. enjoygrafton.com

A 40-by-80-foot American flag, the largest free-flying flag on the Mississippi River, was dedicated this fall by Marcus Lemonis of "The Profit" at Grafton Lighthouse Park as a symbol of dedication for U.S. military veterans and first responders.

2020 CURRENTS 39

T

he 180-foot Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower, perched at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, is worth a visit. The tower with surrounding acreage and the Lewis and Clark Commerce Center boasts amazing views and historical significance.

An amphitheater allows HARTFORD to host events offering local live music on Sunday afternoons during the fall season.

Approximately 375 acres are obtainable for industrial development. Enterprise zones and TIF district incentives make this area in the Village a top priority. Benefits of the site offer a truck route, rail access, electric and gas lines.

Prime real estate in Hartford exists at Jefferson Gardens, located on the grounds of the Lewis & 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

prime in January and February in Hartford.

Spectators come from great distances to revel in their grace and beauty.

RECREATION 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

A 17-acre park offers walking and jogging paths in addition to several neighborhood parks and a Veteran’s Memorial Park. The Woodrow Wilson Community Center offers a gym for residents and a gymnasium that can be rented for functions and special events. Kids of all ages can enjoy the Frisbee golf course and the dogwalking park.

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 communitywide events like family-friendly fish fries, car shows, festivals, and cultural events. hartfordillinois.net

1,398

578

$

Households

Median Household Income

42.38

2.42

$

Population (2019 estimate) Median Age

40 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

Two school districts serve area children: Wood River-Hartford 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.

Average Household Size

50,976 74,795

Owner-Occupied Median Housing Value

R

oxana is home to key businesses including the Phillips 66 Refinery, celebrating 100 years of operations, and the Roxana Landfill Authority. These big businesses help make ROXANA a great place to find employment opportunities and settle down.

Residents of Roxana enjoy many benefits, including fulltime police and fire protection departments as well as water and waste water treatments that serve neighboring communities. Roxana has completed a water main extension project on Thomas Street and Route 111 with the help of funding from the Madison County Community Development department.

The new water main directly connects the west side of the community with the elevated water tower, and increases water pressure and water availability to the fire department should an emergency develop.

A portion of this project has also provided water service to the location of the new Village Hall.

The new Village Hall and community center will be located on the Burbank Park property at Route 111 and Thomas Street. This new facility will provide more space for the public safety departments and modernize the administrative services departments. The design of this new center has been completed, and preparations are being made to authorize the project for bid.

Construction will begin late this fall.

Raifort Commerce Park offers hundreds of acres of commercial and industrial zoned property that suits a variety of industries. Business lots are available offering full

1,539

632

$

Households

Median Household Income

39.02

2.44

$

Population (2019 estimate) Median Age

48,436

Average Household Size

utility services, making Raifort Commerce Park just one more reason to appreciate the prosperous Roxana business community.

The Roxana Community School District offers a campus environment with quality education for its students. Past renovations to the school’s main campus make it not only visually appealing but also academically strong.

New roads around the high

89,497

Owner-Occupied Median Housing Value

school have enhanced the surrounding neighborhood.

Roxana offers a full-service community library to the residents of the Riverbend with many additional amenities and events throughout the year. A beautiful Roxana Park District Complex supports a wide spectrum of year-round sports and recreational activities for the community. roxana-il.org

2020 CURRENTS 41

B

arb Overton, South Roxana’s first female mayor, says this family-friendly village has a lot to offer.

With full-time police department and fire departments, SOUTH ROXANA is a safe place to raise a family and the Roxana School District has a new pre-kindergarten wing at the South Roxana Primary School. -Conoco Phillips has donated over $10,000 for new police vests and police car improvements.

BUSINESS DESTINATION As a welcoming business community with two TIF Districts along Route 111 and Madison Avenue, the Village offers 160 acres for business development, with some additional opportunities along Illinois Route 255 across from the Phillips 66 Wood River Refinery.

PARKS With a $15,000 Madison County Park and Recreation Grant the Village is creating the Jurjevich Park named for former business owners and community leaders Charlie and Eva Jurjevich. Phase I of the Jurjevich Park Project consisted of installing swing sets.

Block Grant improved drainage.

1,914

756

$

Households

Median Household Income

37.92

2.53

$

Population (2019 estimate) Median Age

Average Household Size

A $60,000 grant from Madison County Community Development Park Grant has allowed for solar powered

43,948 82,619

Owner-Occupied Median Housing Value

lighting, tables, charging stations and benches.

A $100,000 Madison County Community Development

A $28,420 grant from Ameren has allowed for more cost efficient lighting for village hall.

Through Illinois Infrastructure Investment Act grants (more than $500,000) with help from Illinois Senator Rachelle Crowe and Representative Monica Bristow, these projects are underway: • Installation of village wide electronic water meters • Extension of water lines from Illinois Rt.111 west along New Poag Road to and along Oldenburg Road

COMMUNITY SPIRIT The 60-year old Dad’s Club is a 10-acre non-profit privately owned park that has bingo every Saturday night. Their mission is to further the Village providing yearly scholarships and help disadvantaged residents. The Dad’s Club has recently opened Dad’s Pub in the park and is open daily.

The Village welcomes new business.

42 GROWTHASSOCIATION.COM

T

his ideal place to live and work offers residents and businesses the many amenities of a larger, urban oasis, but with a small town vibe. If you are looking to relocate, home sales are booming.

Sought-after 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 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, with accessible fishing dock, continues to impress outdoor enthusiasts and pet owners alike.

The Veterans War Memorial in Central Park won the Governor’s Hometown

toured the new station.

Businesses continue to renovate, including a new playground and $ improvements at Emerick Population Households Median Household Sports Park which (2019 estimate) Income totaled $172,000, of $ which 93 percent were funded with grants and Median Average Owner-Occupied Median Age Household Size Housing Value donations. Aldi added 1,600 square feet to their Award. If you haven’t yet visited the site, business, McDonald’s it’s a wonderful tribute to those that have made extensive interior upgrades, StorCo served. opened with the Wood River Springfest as their opening celebration, Rustic Roots Belk Park Golf Course is visited by has added a lovely banquet room, and Big more than 50,000 people each year.

Daddy’s BBQ sells out every weekend of With recently upgraded drainage their smoked meats. improvements, clubhouse updates and new exterior fencing, Belk Park Golf woodriver.org Course is a perfect spot for your golf tournament, business meeting, or other event.

10,115

4,275

51,408

40.91

2.32

93,113

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE The new $7.6 million police facility, a gift from BP, opened in May 2019.

More than 200 members of the public

Zillah the Comfort Dog and a tiny friend at Wood River Public Library during one of its many programs aimed at children and education.

2020 CURRENTS 43

CANCER.

It’s personal.

Will I be able to work? How will I get to treatments? Will I lose my hair?

Will I see my children grow up? Where do I find hope?

Because no two cancers are alike, our team at OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center will personalize a treatment plan to meet your needs. That is why we designed the new OSF Moeller Cancer Center as an all-in-one facility, so you can focus on what is important to you – getting back to your life.

We’re by your side from diagnosis through treatment. Because for all of us – it’s personal.

To learn more, visit osfhealthcare.org/cancercare.