Currents 2024

P.O. Box 615

Alton, IL 62002

618-465-3535

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

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JOHN KELLER Growth Association President

Thank you for viewing the RiverBend Growth Association’s 2023-2024 edition of the Currents magazine.

PROJECT COORDINATOR

Debbie Hagen

EDITOR

Nathan Grimm

DESIGNER

Missy Long

WRITERS

Frank Prager

Nathan Grimm

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jeff Helmkamp

Frank Prager

ADVERTISING

Erin Spain

This is a Big Z Media publication created and produced for the RiverBend Growth Association.

P.O. Box 425

6722 Godfrey Road

Godfrey, IL 62035

618-467-2280

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/RiverBendGrowthAssociationIL

This publication serves as the RiverBend Growth Association’s (RBGA) opportunity to highlight the people and places that comprise the Riverbend Region of Southwestern Illinois. I hope you have the same enthusiasm as I do for our area by sharing this publication with others in the office or on your coffee table at home.

The simple theory behind the Growth Association is the same today as it was when it was formed in 1985: We can improve the quality of life in this region by working together rather than separately, or at cross-purposes. We serve as the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development organization for the 11 communities that comprise the “Riverbend.” The RBGA takes great pride in the area’s outstanding educational systems, local businesses, quality workforce, recreational and tourist attractions, and most importantly — our sense of community.

Please enjoy viewing and reading about the businesses, municipalities, organizations, and people that make the Riverbend the unique and wonderful place that it is to call home, especially our cover story about the 50-year-old Mississippi Valley Christian School and its historical campus. The region is fortunate to have so many businesses, institutions, and non-profits that support the community. The Growth Association constantly strives to develop programs and events that help our member businesses — large and small, new and old — and our communities in general.

In closing, I thank you again for your interest in the Riverbend and the Currents magazine. The RBGA is proud to share this publication with visitors, residents, and future residents alike!

Sincerely,

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Highlighting the people and places of OurRiverBend

VILLAGE OF BETHALTO

Pride without prejudice

After 155 years, Bethalto is still a great place to build a future

The original settlers of what is now known as Bethalto found an area with good timber, fertile soil and abundant water. Supplied with plentiful resources, they quickly recognized it as an ideal place to live and prosper. More than one hundred and fifty years later, the peaceful setting and relaxed lifestyle of the community, along with its proximity to jobs, education, and robust recreational and cultural opportunities, still make Bethalto a great place to build a future. Bethalto was founded in 1834 and prospered for many years but was not formally incorporated until April 19, 1869. It was first named Bethel after a church in the area, but when the post office was established, it was discovered there was another town by the name of Bethel in Illinois. The name was hence changed to Bethalto, formed by the first four letters of Bethel and the first four letters of Alton. To this day, Bethalto

is the only town so named in the United States. In 2024, the village of 9,500 residents will observe the 155th anniversary of its incorporation.

Gary Bost is the current mayor of Bethalto. A lifelong resident of the town, Bost graduated from Civic Memorial High School in 1983. He was first elected as a village trustee in April 2010 and served three terms. In May 2021, he was elected major. Bost and his wife, Kimberly, have two sons and three granddaughters.

Bost readily points out the numerous benefits the community brings to the region and why it is a great place to live. Bethalto has one of the lowest crime rates in the region, a fact he attributes to strong leadership in the police department along with the relationship the police force has with the residents.

“The police have local relationships and there is

mutual respect between them and the community,” explains Bost. “That culture of respect becomes contagious, and people look out for each other.”

Bost notes strong leadership is a trait of all the village’s departments, including the Bethalto Fire Department and Public Works.

“The people who work for these agencies are often born and raised here, so they have a sense of pride associated with their work,” he says. A major Public Works department project recently completed saw the repair and relining of the entire sewer system, remediating problems the residents had with water backups when it rained.

Bethalto continues to experience both residential and business growth. Bost notes statistics from the Illinois Association of Realtors show an increase of 128 percent in

housing growth from 2021 to 2022 versus 17 percent for the state of Illinois as a whole. He says housing in the area starts at prices affordable for first-time home buyers. He also explains that in addition to family housing, the town has various types of housing geared toward independent senior living.

Education and culture are bedrocks of the community. Bethalto School District provides education from kindergarten through high school. The Bethalto library provides patrons a top-quality physical facility for reading and reference resources, and also participates in networks that allow area residents easy access to the materials of over 400 libraries in the central and southern parts of Illinois.

In addition to a safe, friendly community atmosphere and affordable housing, proximity to jobs is key to the community’s growth.

The Bethalto School District provides education from kindergarten through high school.

The Bethalto library provides patrons a top-quality physical facility for reading and reference resources and also allows area residents easy access to the materials of over 400 libraries in the central and southern parts of Illinois.

“Our relationship with St. Louis Regional Airport is ramping up,” notes Bost. “They just announced an expansion, adding a 75,000 square foot new space. It is a $14 million project and will add sixty to seventy new jobs.”

As some businesses grow their footprint in the region, others are moving to the area. Scooter’s Coffee opened a new location and construction of a new O’Reilly Auto Parts is taking place. Cedarhurst Senior Living, Alton Memorial Convenient Care and Dollar Tree discount store are also recent additions to the town’s business community.

Community spirit and a variety of recreational activities foster a vibrant atmosphere in the town. Bethalto has eight parks, including the Bethalto Arboretum and seven other parks with active recreation and play areas. Three pickleball courts have been installed with three more planned in the near future. A splash pad is in one of the parks near the village administration building.

The Bethalto Arboretum is a local gem. It provides a treelined walking path surrounded by pristinely manicured trees, flowers and shrubs. The arboretum is an ideal place for residents of any age to enjoy exercise in the fresh air. Bost notes a major project is underway which will extend the walking path. He says the work should be completed in 2024.

A new Boys and Girls club will be constructed in the coming year as well. Bost says the larger, newer facility will replace the existing club, providing more amenities and resources as well as affording some facilities adult citizens can also use.

Community spirit has always been foundational to the success of Bethalto. Bethalto Spirit is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1990 with a focus on enhancing community experiences, celebrating education, arts, culture, beautification, volunteerism and community activities. The group of local volunteers helps maintain the arboretum and is involved in the Christmas village every year and Music in the Park on Thursday evenings. They also work on the annual Christmas walk and the farmer’s market held every Sunday in the city park. Bost notes a new civic organization, the Gray Eagles, has recently been formed. The group will take day trips and participate in civic activities.

Community gatherings are a hallmark of Bethalto’s culture. The annual Labor Day weekend homecoming has been an institution for generations. The event always includes live entertainment, games, food, carnival rides and more. An annual Family

Fun Day is also held every September at Bryant Park.

Bost says the village continues to grow and improve every year.

“Our philosophy is to take care of the people here and everything else will take care of itself,” he says. He encourages residents to get involved, noting public meetings are held the second Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Bethalto Senior Center.

Information about community groups, services and activities

is available by contacting the town hall.

Bost notes he makes a point of regularly being out in the community and welcomes any feedback or input.

“My door is always open,” he says.

Jobs, recreation, education and culture make the village an ideal location for residents of any demographic. After 155 years, Bethalto continues to be a great place to build a future.

The Bethalto Arboretum has a tree-lined walking path surrounded by pristinely manicured trees, flowers and shrubs.

HELMKAMP CONSTRUCTION

Built to last

Construction industry leader also gives back to local community

Anyone looking for the inspiration of a genuine American success story need look no further than Helmkamp Construction Company in East Alton.

Celebrating 85 years in business this year, the company has grown from one man and a leased flatbed truck to a major regional company with extensive experience and expertise in the areas of industrial, building, and life sciences construction. The company has received awards designating it as not only an industry leader but also one of the best places to work in the region. In addition, the company’s charitable contributions have benefited dozens of local groups and organizations.

The company grew to 80 people and 75 pieces of equipment over the following 25 years. In 1961, Gilbert’s sonin-law, Byron Farrell, joined the business and in 1971, Gilbert’s son, John Gilbert Helmkamp Jr., came on board. With nearly 300 employees, Helmkamp had grown by that time into one of largest excavating, trucking and equipment rental companies in Southern Illinois.

foundations, equipment installations and building additions.

“Really, about any building need a business would have, we most likely have experience and expertise to do it,” says Johnes.

Helmkamp Construction was started in 1935 by Gilbert Helmkamp when he leased a flatbed truck to haul coal and topsoil for local businesses.

Byron’s son, Brad Farrell, joined the company in 1985, marking the third generation of family involved in the business. Throughout the 1980s, the company came to focus on construction in the building, industrial and institutional industries. Rob Johnes is the current owner and president of the company. Born and raised in Alton, Johnes was hired on with the company in 1987 as a summer intern. In 2012, he was promoted to president and in 2018 he became the first nonfamily owner of the company. Helmkamp Construction performs construction projects ranging from renovations and expansions to complex industrial facilities, including

He notes the company has traditionally worked with larger corporate clients but that experience also helps them bring their expertise to smaller and mid-sized businesses. Helmkamp employees have an aggregate total of over 600 years of experience. The company has been involved in more than 1,500 projects throughout the past three years.

Johnes points out that in addition to doing typical industrial construction work, the business has extensive expertise in complex technical equipment installation.

“Most of the management staff have been with the company since they graduated from college,” he says. “Over that time, you get exposed to a lot of different things and gain a lot of experience.” The average tenure for project managers with Helmkamp is twelve years and, for superintendents in the field, seventeen years. He emphasizes what sets Helmkamp apart from its competitors is their diversity and experience.

Helmkamp has performed major ongoing construction

work for companies such as Saint Anthony’s OSF and Alton Memorial Hospital, Illinois American Water, and Phillips 66. It has also done work for Principia College for 17 years, both in Elsah and Town and Country in Missouri, recently completing a new 90,000-square-foot fitness and gym facility for them. In 2005, Helmkamp was the winner of the prestigious Keystone Award for Project of the Year for the work performed for the 2004 Presidential Debate at Washington University in St. Louis. The Construction Keystone Awards are presented by the industry to top groundbreaking, resourceful, and safety-minded companies.

Safety must always be a top priority in the construction industry and Helmkamp takes pride in its approach to providing a safe work environment. “I care about the workers going home the same way they came to us,” says Johnes. “As a business owner, I will never make money from putting people at risk.”

Johnes notes that safety hazards can not only jeopardize the health of people but can also shut down production lines and result in untold business costs for customers. He says the company takes feedback directly from employees in the field and does not rely on simply meeting the requirements of industry safety

Helmkamp Construction was founded in 1935 by Gilbert Helmkamp.

tests. He says if anyone in the company sees something they think is unsafe, they are able to report it.

“We take those comments, and they go out every Monday to everyone. The advantage of that approach is that it’s often craft people talking to craft people about what they’re seeing,” he says.

A foundational tenant of the company is giving back to the local community. In 2019, the Helmkamp Cares committee was created to formalize and standardize the contributions the company makes. The committee consists of Helmkamp Construction employees who decide where the charitable money goes. Since the committee was formed, the company has given at least $10,000 per month to worthwhile causes. Since 2019, it has given

over half a million dollars to local community charitable organizations. Support recipients have included the Alzheimer’s Association, Boys & Girls Club, Riverbend Head Start, Community Hope Center, American Heart Association, Crisis Food Center, Boy Scouts of America and dozens more.

Helmkamp Cares not only provides financial support but often also contributes manpower to manage the projects to which it contributes.

“If we can make the giving exponential, all the better,” says Johnes. The committee reviews potential recipients and designates Maximum Impact Awards of specific financial aid to projects which provide the most impact for the contributions.

Johnes also points out Helmkamp is a great place to build a long-term career.

“People often think they have to go over to St. Louis to earn

top wages and have a good career,” he says. “The idea that you have to move from the area or move from company to company to move up in your career is a fallacy. If you do the things you need to do, you can move up here. I enjoy seeing younger people succeed.”

Helmkamp has been acknowledged as one of the most sought-after employers in the region by winning the St. Louis Business Journal’s Best Places to Work as well as being designated a Top Workplace from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Johnes notes that he himself started as an intern at the company. Anyone interested in a career with Helmkamp can provide their information on the company’s website.

helmkamp.com 707 Berkshire Blvd • East Alton • 618-251-2600

Helmkamp Construction has given over a half a million dollars to charitable organizations in the community since 2019. They recently sponsored Alzheimer’s Night at the Gateway Grizzlies ballpark.

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Cultivating curiosity

‘An institution of learning,’ MVCS observes 50th anniversary

Longtime Alton residents will remember the presence of Western Military Academy.

Cadets in swallow-tail coats with rows of brass buttons and white cross belts were a common site in upper Alton during their free time on Saturday afternoons. The school was founded in 1879 and operated for 92 years. Its name identified the fact that in 1879, Alton was in what was then the westernmost part of the United States.

The school had a storied and honorable history of producing leaders in both civilian and military life. Its discipline and standards were legendary. Notable graduates of the academy included General Paul Tibbets from the class of 1933, who piloted the airplane Enola Gay that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. Edward (Butch) O’Hare, class of 1932, who went on to graduate from Annapolis and won the Congressional Medal of Honor for saving the aircraft carrier on which he was stationed. He was later killed in World War II, and O’Hare Airport in Chicago is named after him. Sandy Vanocur, Western Military Academy class of 1946, later became vice-president of ABC-TV news.

Western Military Academy closed in 1971. The campus sat vacant for several years following its closing. Over that

time, the facilities became subject to vandalism and began to deteriorate.

In 1974, Faith Baptist Church in Godfrey wanted to open a Christian school to provide children an education with a biblical worldview. In the fall of that year, Mississippi Valley Christian School was started in the basement of the church. The school rapidly grew, doubling in attendance in just a few years and then doubling again after that. With the school outgrowing its facilities, the church began to look for other accommodations.

The church purchased the former Western Military Academy campus in 1977. Volunteers subsequently put in 14,500 volunteer man hours getting the buildings and property ready, and the school moved into the facilities in 1980. Tom Olney was pastor of Faith Baptist Church when the school was started and

oversaw its relocation to the campus facilities. Olney was pastor at the church for 52 years, retiring in 2017. Having continued to experience growth and success from those original classes held in the church basement, Mississippi Valley Christian School will observe its 50th anniversary in 2024.

Tim Lee is the current administrator of the school. Lee graduated in 2011 from Midwestern Baptist College in Pontiac, Michigan, with a degree in Religious Education. He has been with Faith Baptist Church for four years and became administrator of the school in the spring of 2023. He and his wife, Ann, have been married for 22 years and have four children.

Lee has a legacy of pastoral service in his family.

“My grandfather, father and brother all served as pastors,”

he explains. “It’s been a ministry-minded family and I, myself, have always had a desire to serve.”

The mission statement of the school is “To assist parents in fulfilling their God-given responsibility of training their children to be conformed to the image of Christ.” It states the school is “Developing students spiritually, academically, socially and physically in order to fulfill the Great Commission.” The school holds chapel services once a week and conducts bible classes every day.

“We are an institution of learning,” says Lee. “And I would distinguish that from an institution of education. Education means you have learned. Learning is an ongoing skill you develop. A person can be educated but not be a learner.”

Lee goes on to outline the school’s approach to learning.

“We cultivate and create curiosity to develop lifelong learners and Christian leaders,” he says. “Our goal is that we develop in the students a love for learning as well as the character and leadership that will make them Christian leaders in whatever role they pursue.”

The school teaches students from grades K4 (bridge between preschool and kindergarten) through twelve. It

The school’s library facilities occupy the former military academy administration building.

has an ongoing enrollment of around 100 students and a student-to-teacher ratio of just nine to one. The school is available to Christian families who desire to pursue a Christian education for their children.

Mississippi Valley Christian School uses curriculums from Abeka Academy and BJU (Bob Jones University). Abeka and BJU provide educational products to help Christian school staff teach core academic subjects such as math, history, science and language arts. Lee says that based on IOWA testing test scores, students at the school are minimally a grade ahead of students in public schools at their same grade level. IOWA tests are standardized tests which measure student achievement and growth across a continuum of next generation learning standards.

The school has an interscholastic sports program for grades seven through twelve. Soccer and basketball are available for boys.

Volleyball and basketball are available for girls. It participates in leagues in the Illinois Association of Christian Schools (IACS) as well as the Metro Athletic Conference.

Lee explains the school also has fine arts classes and participates in IACS competitions in areas such as drama, art, speech and other art concentrations. He says students from the school have advanced to compete nationally at Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina.

The school term runs from August to May. Lee emphasizes the focus of the school is on intentionally developing a love of learning.

“I think that will carry these young people further than any piece of paper we can give them,” he says. “I want kids to continue to ask, ‘Why?,’ whether that’s a Bible question or a science question.”

Western Military Academy grad Robert Jackson Ellison celebrated 60 years after his civil rights work

PAGE 23

Still running

Andy’s nears 50 years in business

Walking into Andy’s Auto Body and Tire & Auto Service, you hear the typical whir of air wrenches, the staccato beat of compressors and the metal clang of jack stands that people normally associate with engine work and auto body repair.

However, what is not seen behind those sounds is the advanced state-of-the-art diagnostic, maintenance and repair equipment capable of identifying and addressing any issue which might arise with today’s automobiles. Andy’s will observe its 50th anniversary in 2024. Originally founded by Andy Batchelor in 1974, the business is now owned and operated by longtime Alton resident Mark Anderson. Anderson has worked in the automotive business his entire career.

“I started at Lou Fusz Automotive washing preowned cars right out of high school,” he says. He was at Lou Fusz for 21 years, working his way up to service manager over the service, parts and body shop. He purchased Andy’s from Batchelor in 2004.

The tire and auto center moved from its original Broadway location to Alton Square Mall in 2012, then to its current location next to Homer Adams Parkway in 2018. A $1.5-million renovation turned the former Rothman Furniture store building into the current state-of-the-art facility.

Anderson personally helped with much of the renovation work.

“I have a lot of sweat equity in this business,” he says.

Anderson says Andy’s can do “anything automotive related,” explaining that Andy’s mechanical shop technicians are Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified. The certification is issued and regulated by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. The rigorous testing required to achieve the ASE certification demonstrates the technicians can work on the latest, most complex electrical and mechanical automobile systems. Andy’s is also a NAPA Gold certified auto shop. Their NAPA certification allows them to provide a three-year, 36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor.

“We have the most state-of-

the-art shop around,” says Anderson. He notes the shop has Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration equipment, that allows the shop to align even advanced lane departure and other camera equipment on vehicles. He explains the business recently invested in welding equipment which allows them to perform any type of welding necessary to do frame or body repairs, even on the latest metals and body components.

Andy’s does repair and maintenance work as well as preventative maintenance and wheel alignment. In addition to routine repair and maintenance work, Andy’s can provide any work needed to keep cars under extended warranties, regardless of what dealership the warranty was purchased through.

“There are a lot of extended warranty companies,” explains

Anderson. “We work with them all.”

The shop stays current with rapidly advancing automotive technology through certifications, advanced equipment, and ongoing training.

“Our service technicians undergo at least 10 hours of training every year,” says Anderson. “Our body shop technicians take at least 30 hours of training every year.”

Andy’s also sells pre-owned vehicles.

“We get cars at auctions across the nation to use as loaners for customers during repair work,” explains Anderson. “After using them for a year or two, we sell them.”

He notes customers can get an excellent deal on the preowned cars and he can also look for cars at auctions that customers might be interested in.

“Someone can call me and let me know a particular type, year, color or other feature they are looking for and I will try to find it,” he says.

Lift kits, aftermarket wheels and a complete line of tires are also available. Andy’s tire stock includes Firestone, Cooper, BF Goodrich, Continental and Michelin brands. The business also does state of Illinois emissions testing and license

Mark Anderson owns and operates Andy’s Auto Body and Tire & Auto Service in Alton.

renewals. Anderson says the business works on 30,000 automobiles every year, including 20,000 emissions tests every year.

The business has a long history of doing philanthropical work and giving back to the community. Andy’s is a member of Pride Incorporated, the Riverbend Rotary, the Knights of Columbus and the North Alton/Godfrey Business Council. Anderson is a past president of the Rotary. Andy’s has won the Captain of the RiverBend award for its community involvement and the Godfrey Woman’s Club Golden Leaf Award for distinguished community service. It was voted small business of the month by the

RiverBend Growth Association in 1998, 2009, 2014 and 2019.

One of the sponsored projects includes Andy's Annual Golf Tournament benefiting 5A’s no-kill animal shelter. The tournament has raised nearly $50,000 to date. Andy’s hosts an annual Thanksgiving dinner at the Knights of Columbus serving the elderly and less fortunate. The business helps with food drives benefiting Alton’s Crisis Food Center and the Community Hope Center. Other activities the business participates in benefit Riverbend Head Start, Marines Toys for Tots, Oasis Women’s Center and St. Baldrick’s cancer fundraiser.

Anderson notes there are

employment opportunities at the business and emphasizes they are always looking for good people.

“Mechanics, service advisors, estimators, body shop men, anyone with the skills and experience we need,” says Anderson. Required job skills are posted on their website, where applicants can provide their resume and contact information online.

When asked what differentiates the business from others in the area in the same line of work, Anderson says that in addition to their knowledge and equipment, it is the people who work there.

“I live in the community,” he

says. “I see people when I’m out all the time. I look forward to them coming up and telling me how satisfied they are with the service they receive.”

Andy’s Tire & Auto Services can be reached at 618-4656272. Their hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. The Auto Body Center can be reached at 618-465-7006. Their hours are Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. until noon.

gotoandys.com

Bank — and trust

Liberty offers industry-leading services with a local touch

Few industries have undergone a greater increase in both technological change and customer expectations than banking. The advent of online banking and the need for on-demand, real-time financial transactions have transformed the nature of the business. The days of “banker’s hours” and passbook accounts have vanished. Customers now need to do their banking on their schedule, in whatever way fits their individual lifestyle.

An aggregation of banking operations in recent years into larger, centralized conglomerates has left many customers feeling like they are more of an account number than a valued customer. Consolidations and acquisitions often leave those used to doing business with their local branch now talking to a call center half a world away from them. It can seem at times that personalized service is a thing of the past.

Liberty Bank has proven to be an exception to the new rules. Founded in 1994 by local area businessmen, the bank has since expanded to four area locations. The bank joined United Community Bank in 2017 and continues to provide industry-leading banking services while retaining not only the Liberty Bank brand but also the personal relationships and local access for which it has long been known. Customers know when

they pick up the phone or walk into one of the local bank locations, they are dealing with people who live in their community, who know them by name and who are genuinely interested in providing personalized service for their banking needs. The bank will observe its 30th anniversary in 2024.

Matt Waters is the market president of Liberty Bank. Born and raised in the Riverbend area, he currently resides in Bethalto with his wife, Lindsay, and their four children. He has a marketing business degree from Quincy University in Illinois and 20 years of experience in the banking industry.

Waters joined Liberty Bank in November 2019. As a resident of the community, he recognizes the importance of

accessibility and personalized service for the bank’s customers.

“I have always liked the idea of working in the community where you live,” he says. “I didn’t want to work somewhere where I didn’t feel like I was part of the community.”

Liberty Bank places a priority on allowing customers to bank in whatever way they need.

“Customers want to have the ability to do their banking anywhere,” explains Waters. “Online from their home, on their phone, at local branches. We as a bank give them those options.”

Waters notes the bank has all the technology to provide that variety of services. The bank’s mobile app allows customers to bank anywhere

from their phone if they like. The bank’s online website provides a complete range of services, allowing customers to open and review accounts and transfer money. Waters also notes that in addition to those capabilities, customers also want to be able to pick up the phone and have a local contact. When customers call a local Liberty Bank branch, they are talking to people at that branch, not a regional or national call center.

Customers want to feel their money is safe, and Liberty Bank has a 5-star rating from Bauer Financial, the nation’s leading bank rating and research firm. The 5-Star rating recognizes Liberty Bank as one of the strongest banks in the nation, excelling in areas of capital, loan quality, profitability and more. The bank also utilizes cuttingedge technology to protect customers’ accounts from any electronic security breaches. It proactively monitors accounts for any potential fraud and contacts customers immediately to verify any suspicious or unusual activity, taking immediate steps to assist in resolving it.

Liberty Bank is competitive in all areas of banking and offers services to accommodate customers of any age or generation. It is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and provides a complete range of services from traditional checking and

Matt Waters is the market president of Liberty Bank.

savings accounts to digital bill payment and mobile banking and deposits. It offers debit and credit cards, gift cards, and accounts that feature identity theft and credit monitoring services as well as cell phone protection, roadside assistance, and more.

Borrowers will find an entire spectrum of offerings from mortgage and home equity loans, including solar home equity loans, to personal and vehicle loans, as well as boat, RV, ATV and watercraft loans. Waters explains the bank’s loan rates are competitive with other banks in the industry. A mortgage estimator as well as an auto financing calculator are available on the bank’s website. Loan applications can be submitted online or in person at a bank branch. Liberty Bank is an Equal Housing Lender, NMLS# 571147.

Financial planning services are also available through the bank’s United Wealth division, which offers investment services and a full array of personal trust services. In

addition, it can help clients with automotive, homeowner, rental, business and agricultural insurance through United Financial Services.

Liberty Bank provides a complete range of services for business customers. Cash management services include business savings and checking, online banking, remote deposit capture and merchant services. The bank also offers Insured Cash Sweep (ICS) and Certificate

of Deposit Account Registry Service (CDARS). ICS maximizes FDIC insurance coverage for large deposits while earning interest on cash balances. CDARS allows businesses to invest in Certificates of Deposit held by many different FDIC insured banking institutions, so it can achieve full FDIC coverage for the total sum. Available business loans include small business, commercial, agriculture, physician and professional services loans.

Business planning services through United Wealth include business succession planning as well as services for nonprofit organizations, business management, employee benefits, corporate trust services and farm and crop insurance.

Liberty Bank has locations at 2403 Homer Adams Parkway in Alton and 333 West Bethalto Drive in Bethalto. It also has locations at both 2711 Godfrey Road and 3112 Godfrey Road in Godfrey. Drive up as well as lobby hours can be found on its website.

“Our people are what set us apart,” says Waters. “We try every day to treat people like they deserve to be treated. We offer customers the same benefits technology-wise that any other bank can provide, but we also offer them the local connections that they know and can trust.”

bankliberty.com

Liberty Bank has four convenient locations in the Bethalto, Alton and Godfrey areas.

National scope, local focus

Alton-based law firm prioritizes clients, community

Alton and its surrounding communities have been fortunate throughout their history to have had businesses that grew to nationwide stature but never forgot their roots. Those businesses have been industry leaders who recognized true greatness lies not in the accumulation of money but rather in using the benefits of their success to help their community and give back to their neighbors.

Approaching its 25th anniversary, the Simmons Hanly Conroy law firm was started in 1999 by attorney John Simmons to help individuals and families grappling with the devastation caused by the asbestos-related diagnosis of mesothelioma. Over the years, it has grown to a nationally

legal firm that has recovered $9.9 billion for thousands of clients, all the while staying firmly rooted in the Riverbend area and never wavering from their focus on giving back to those around them.

Following graduation from Roxana High School, Simmons joined the Army. After serving as a combat engineer for two years, he returned home to East Alton to work with his father building houses. He enrolled at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville as a political science major, graduating a short time later with honors and going on to earn his Juris Doctor degree from Southern Methodist University School of Law in Dallas while working part

time representing nonprofit organizations and churches.

Working on folding tables with rented computers, client stories of perseverance and bravery are what motivated Simmons and the seven original employees of the firm to take on some of the biggest companies in the country. Since that time, Simmons has grown the firm into a nationwide company and an industry leader. Headquartered in Alton, the firm employs 80 attorneys and 170 support staff. A national headquarters building was constructed in Alton in 2011.

In addition to its headquarters location in Alton, the company has offices in St. Louis, New York, Chicago and Los Angeles. It now provides legal solutions in the areas of mesothelioma and asbestos, dangerous drugs and devices, class actions, environmental issues, personal injury, sexual abuse and business, and commercial matters.

John Barnerd is an attorney and a managing shareholder at the company. Barnerd joined Simmons Hanly Conroy in 2002, having previously served for two years as an Assistant State’s Attorney for Madison County. He speaks with passion about the core values guiding the mission of the firm.

“A lot of the attorneys

at the firm grew up in the local area and have a strong commitment to the community,” Barnerd says. He notes that about fifty of the company’s attorneys work out of the Alton office.

He explains that asbestos came into common use as a fire retardant during the industrial revolution in the nineteenth century. It was widely used as late as the early 1970s in a vast array of products ranging from insulation for houses to manufacturing infrastructure to automobile brake linings. As early as the 1920s, data began to indicate there were health risks associated with the material. However, many companies neglected to address or mitigate the hazard, exposing innocent workers to life-threatening consequences.

Barnerd says a founding philosophy of Simmons Hanly Conroy was giving people a voice in standing up for their rights. He explains the firm is committed to their clients and their right to a voice in the legal system.

“There are a lot of people’s hearts in this place,” he says. “When you walk into somebody’s house and they’re in need of help, and you sit down at their dining room table and they tell you their life story, it's just like sitting down with your grandparents.”

He says in mesothelioma cases, you are having a discussion with someone who

Simmons

John Simmons (right) started the legal firm with seven employees who worked on folding tables with rented computers.

knows they are going to die. He continues the story he sees so often.

“The guy says, ‘Just take care of my wife. Just make sure she’s going to be okay because I’m not going to be here,’” Barnerd says. “You do everything you can to help them in a situation like that, and that’s what we do.”

He also explains the culture of the company has been one of giving back to the community since day one of its existence. The company founded the SHC Foundation in 2004. The foundation has given more than $23 million to the local community since that time. It supports numerous activities and events around the area, giving the proceeds to multiple worthwhile causes. More than $10 million has been given to the SIU Medicine

Simmons Cancer Institute. The foundation has provided $8 million to research for finding a cure for mesothelioma. Three million dollars has been given to the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADOA) and the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF). Just this past year, the annual Miles for Meso 5K run raised $25,000 for the ADOA.

The SHC Foundation supports a long list of other charitable groups. Karla Smith Behavioral Health works toward rebuilding and strengthening family relationships that may have been compromised by mental illness. Annie’s Hope provides comprehensive support services for families who are grieving a death. The Restore Network establishes partnerships with those on the front lines of foster care programs. The organization

Refuge is a non-profit based in Madison County which helps children and their caregivers who have experienced the trauma of abuse, neglect and violence.

The list of the organizations supported by the SHC Foundation does not stop there. It also provides money for 3 Little Birds 4 Life, a charity which endeavors to help cancer patients feel a little better while going through their cancer experience. Partners for Pets works to eliminate the suffering, abandonment and euthanasia of companion animals. In addition, there have been more than a dozen charities supported by the foundation in this past year.

The firm has won countless awards over the years, including U.S. News & World

Report Best Lawyer and Best Law Firm multiple years. The ranking is based on a rigorous research process that includes client and lawyer evaluations and peer reviews from leading attorneys. However, Barnerd says, the awards are secondary.

“Awards are nice,” he says. “But standing up for our clients and helping the community is what we are about.”

In a world that frequently seems off-balance in its relentless pursuit of profitability at the expense of the safety and welfare of the common man, Simmons Hanly Conroy has consistently remained an anchor of stability, generosity and protection for the community around it.

Simmons Hanly Conroy law firm’s national headquarters building in Alton was built in 1971 and renovated in 2011.

Many things to many businesses

The RiverBend Growth Association (RBGA) is a membership-based organization consisting of large and small businesses, government entities, schools, and nonprofit organizations. Services for the membership include networking opportunities, promotional opportunities, internet exposure, marketing assistance, business advocacy, and publication of events and specials.

Says Member Engagement Director Stefanie Withers, “We’ve got great activities and events; we are a great source of information and provide an affordable way to promote your

business, and you become a bigger part of your community.”

The RBGA hosts networking events, ribbon cuttings, awards a Small Business of the Month, and spotlights a nonprofit organization every month. We hold annual events including the LeadHership Seminar, RiverBend Golf Classic, Fall Festival and the Chamber Choice Awards.

These events and networking meetings give the members numerous opportunities to be in the right rooms, with the right people, with the appropriate introductions to establish instant credibility. The events are

The RBGA celebrates business openings with ribbon-cutting ceremonies.

well-run, an efficient use of our members’ time, and affordable for small and large businesses because of the generous sponsorships of our members.

“Whether a representative from your business comes to every networking opportunity or a business simply belongs to have a community presence, the RBGA is worth the investment in YOUR business,” says Debbie Hagen, Communications Director.

The RBGA team and committee members hear from members that “they don’t have time” to attend meetings or events. Members don’t have to attend anything to still get value from a membership. The RBGA promotes its member businesses to other members, to residents and visitors requesting information, and to businesses new to the community. Our members’ events are promoted through weekly e-newsletters, online

and on Facebook. The RBGA team and volunteers celebrate members’ anniversaries, grand openings, and expansions.

In addition, the RBGA has a very vibrant Young Adults Committee comprised of junior and senior students chosen from each of the local high schools.

Building YOUR business is about building relationships, and the RBGA can help build those relationships.

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

The Growth Association — never content to stand still, rather always moving forward — relies on its members and their input to keep its programs current and worthwhile.

rbga.org

618-467-2280

Energy Matters

At Phillips 66, protecting and supporting our people, our environment and our communities guides everything we do, and it always will.

That is why we support the Riverbend region.

Member businesses have the option to host monthly Member Mingle events, held at various times throughout the day.

Riverbend area companies sponsor and attend events such as Chamber Choice Awards, held annually in the spring.

Wood River Refinery ROXANA, IL

There are plenty of fish in the sea. Every cloud has a silver lining. There’s no “I” in “team.”

They may be trite, but let’s face it — clichés are clichés for a reason. They usually ring true.

So, in asking our Riverbend-area mayors what’s new — and what’s not so new — in their towns, we threw a couple of our favorite clichés at them to get their thoughts. As always, their answers didn’t disappoint, and served as a reminder of what makes the Riverbend municipalities and the region as a whole great.

Alton

DAVID GOINS

QUESTION 1 • They say the only constant is change. That doesn’t have to be a bad thing, though. With that in mind, what’s one thing about your town that you’ve seen change for the better over the years?

QUESTION 2 • Another saying is, the more things change, the more they stay the same. In the same vein, what’s one thing about your town that hasn’t changed, in the best possible way?

East Alton

DARREN CARLTON

1 • The one thing I have seen change for the better is the growth of small businesses in our city. More people are launching out and taking that proverbial “leap of faith” and pursuing a vision and a dream, and it’s always exciting when a new business chooses to plant roots in Alton.

2 • The one thing that doesn’t change for me is our rich history. History such as Elijah P. Lovejoy, The Underground Railroad, the last Lincoln-Douglas Debate just to name a few. We are rich in history which will never change, and that hopefully will cause people to want to visit our historic city and learn about the great events that happened in our city and great people who are from our city or became an integral part of the fabric of our city.

Bethalto

GARY BOST

1 • Businesses investing in the town — while it may be a result of COVID and a pause in progress, we have seen a lot of money being invested by businesses improving their buildings inside and out. Building improvement has become contagious, and with the help of façade grants the town has never looked better.

2 • Hometown feel. With all of the new houses being built in Bethalto, the traffic count has increased and attracted new businesses, which brings even more traffic. We have been able to maintain a hometown feel.

1 • What I have seen change over the years is the way the citizens of the village are more than able to step up for any challenge. It also seems the village is able to get more volunteers when needed. To see the young people who are stepping up is very refreshing. These people see the need for small towns to utilize the volunteers to make sure things get accomplished.

2 • I think it is the way our citizens feel about the village. This village has changed drastically over the past 20 to 25 years; however, people still love the small-town feel and the residents feel this is still a great place to make your home and raise your family.

Elsah

MICHAEL PITCHFORD

1 • While we have always loved our town and tried to keep things looking nice for our own pride, there has been an adjustment in that the village has become much more open to sharing our community with others and has made a commitment to peruse businesses that can benefit our future.

2 • We are like many small communities — change is frightening to many and creates disruption. Since these changes benefit some and not others, it is still challenging to create an atmosphere where “amicable” discussions can result in consensus that is satisfactory to all concerned. However, these differences can result in an increased interest in village participation, and hopefully lead to a more informed citizen participation in government.

Godfrey

MIKE MCCORMICK

1 • The most notable change for the better in the village of Godfrey is our beautiful parks system. Godfrey boasts five beautiful parks, sending residents and visitors flocking to enjoy the open space, green grass, sporting events, and many amenities. In only the first six months of 2023, the Parks and Recreation Department had more than 1,900 registered participants in various sports and social programs.

2 • One thing that hasn’t changed that we’re pleased to highlight is the overall safety in the village of Godfrey. Crime is generally not much of an issue, and we have a very proactive police presence rather than reactive. The village of Godfrey and the Madison County Sheriff’s Department enjoy a very good working relationship and have clear and constant communication. When applicable, residents’ concerns are thoroughly discussed and addressed by both the administration and law enforcement. There is a general feeling that Godfrey is a safe and secure community.

Grafton

MIKE MORROW

1 • The increase in tourism. Grafton has been blessed with an increase in family-based, recreational tourism over the last couple of years. The usual recreational leisure activities such as boating, fishing, hiking and biking have been joined by adventure-based, thrill-seeking tourism activities with our Sky Tour Lift, Zip Lines and new Alpine Mountain Coaster. People come with their families and stay to play, eat, drink and enjoy our riverfront.

2 • The friendly, small-hometown atmosphere. The people of Grafton are warm, welcoming and accommodating to our visitors.

South Roxana

TJ CALLAHAN

1 • One transformation in South Roxana that stands out as an unequivocal positive has been strengthening our local economy and financial health. Over the years, we’ve worked diligently to ensure our town is financially stable and resilient. We have successfully reduced our town’s debt to zero, an accomplishment that reflects prudent fiscal management and our commitment to maintaining a healthy economy for the benefit of our residents.

2 • In terms of constancy, one thing that has remained unaltered, thankfully so, is the strong sense of community in South Roxana. Our town may have changed in many ways, but the spirit of togetherness, support, and mutual respect that defines our community has not. This is evident in how our residents step up to help each other in need, the turnout for community events, and the day-to-day interactions between neighbors. This enduring sense of community makes South Roxana a wonderful place to live, and I hope it will never change.

BILL ROBERTSON

1 • We’ve had significant interest in our Route 3 business area and our New Poag Road areas, with two projects moving along quickly. We have made improvements to Hartford Park on Seventh Street and the Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower, for which the Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau is providing significant funding in the near future.

2 • We’re still a small town, which comes with all the benefits of close neighbors and being close to large-town shopping in any direction. We’re in the middle of it all.

Roxana

MARTY REYNOLDS

1 • I have seen the total environment in Roxana change over the years. Our area, as we all know it to be, is a blue-collar industrial powerhouse and truly the hub of industrialized America. The industry that drives this region has “learned to clean its act up” in terms of meeting our energy needs and being able to supply goods and service to all of the world. We have a refinery in Roxana that is so environmentally conscious, it’s just another business in the area. The Republic Services landfill is of course a landfill operation, but with that said, it’s a top-notch facility. We have learned, sometimes the hard way, how to make the most of our industrialization and coexist in a safe and productive manner.

2 • I have seen a lot of transition in our community over the years. Growing up in Roxana, there was always the feeling of being a small town, tight-knit community. At one time I was a younger resident, but now I am one of the older residents. Roxana has been able to maintain the small-town atmosphere, even to this day, with all our annexations and expansion of our corporate boundaries. We are still a full-service community where your neighbors are more than that — they are your friends.

Wood River

TOM STALCUP

1 • The one thing that stands out to me about Wood River is the coordinating work that our department heads do to improve and move our city forward. The change in administration and letting the department heads do the jobs they are entrusted to do and working together make Wood River a better place to live and raise our families. This dedicated staff lead their employees with the unselfish desire to better our city for years to come.

2 • The one thing that hasn’t changed is that Wood River is home. The comfort and security of being home is always there. Residents that have moved away always look forward to coming home, being with loved ones and friends.

Recreation destination

Wood River eagerly awaits arrival of new community center

The city of Wood River has undertaken major initiatives over the past several years to re-energize the business and residential communities within it. Citizens and businesses alike are interested in seeing Wood River reclaim the economic and cultural energy of past decades and are optimistic about its future.

Along with plans currently in progress by the city to improve sewers, streets, sidewalks and water lines is an emphasis on parks and recreation. A major project currently under way is the construction of a new recreational center, providing top-of-class facilities for a wide range of sports, recreation and community activities.

Jason Woody has been the Wood River Parks and Recreation department director for 15 years. His responsibilities include oversight of all duties related to the department, including special events, facilities and youth league activities as well as maintenance of Belk Park Golf Course and the city’s seven parks. He is currently overseeing work related to the construction of the recreation center.

Planning for the center began in 2016, when feasibility studies were conducted and the AAIC architectural and planning firm from Collinsville was engaged to create plans for the facility.

“Discussions were held around how to raise money for the project that was not directly on the citizens of Wood River,” explains Woody.

A one percent sales tax was

passed by the citizens in 2019 and in April 2022, the city council approved $11 million for the project. In addition, the department recently acquired a $2.5-million grant for the project from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

The footing for the building was poured in November 2022, and the walls began going up the following January. Progress has been rapid, and Woody says the hope is to have construction on the center completed by the end of 2023. Gonzalez Companies is the construction management company in charge of the project. Tom Dohack, the construction manager for Gonzalez, said in June the project was on schedule at that time.

When completed, the recreation center will be 35,000 square feet. The layout of the building includes two full-sized basketball courts. Over the basketball courts, there will be

lines for volleyball courts as well as six pickleball courts. The center will also include a walking and jogging track. It will also have dressing rooms and shower facilities. The facility will house the parks and recreation department offices and, in addition, will contain indoor space for gymnastics and senior citizens programs. A multi-purpose room for community events and programs will also be included.

Pat Minogue has been with the parks and recreation department since August 2022 and is the recreation center manager. He came to Wood River after serving as superintendent of recreation for the city of Belleville for more than four years. He was also parks director for East Alton for three years.

“The kids haven’t had the opportunity to play in a facility this nice before,” says Minogue. “It will grow our numbers and give them a better situation than they’ve had before.”

Woody notes the programs will give kids in the city more opportunities. He also notes that in addition to the benefits for the youth of the community, there will programs for all age demographics. “We’re in talks with Silver Sneakers and Active&Fit,” he says. Those programs will allow older adults to enroll in programs through their health insurance in order to reduce or avoid costs altogether.

Woody points out there is the potential for businesses to have naming rights to the facility. He says there will also be other sponsorship opportunities throughout the building such as the gymnasium, lobby, locker rooms and concession stands.

Minogue says the department will host a job fair closer to the opening of the facility.

In this photo from mid-June, Wood River Parks and Recreation Director Jason Woody, left, and Recreation Center Manager Pat Minogue stand in front of construction of the new recreation center.

‘Free of prejudice, full of understanding’

WMA grad Ellison celebrated six decades after his civil rights work

This past year marked 60 years since Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech, an occasion with ties to the Riverbend and the former Western Military Academy.

Robert Jackson Ellison, who graduated from the Alton military academy the same year as the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, was one of the more than 250,000 civil rights supporters in attendance to hear the reverend deliver the speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The speech, given by King Jr. on Aug. 28, 1963, is considered to be one of the defining moments of the civil rights movement.

It was only the beginning of Ellison’s involvement, though. Two years later, he was hired by Ebony magazine to shoot photographs of the march from Selma to Montgomery in Alabama.

“He was a slight figure who became familiar to thousands of marchers as he popped up everywhere,” a tribute to Ellison in Ebony read. “He worked late, slept in his clothes, and arose before daybreak, never having a chance to change his clothes during the four-day march. He was a warm, understanding and very well-liked human being.”

Despite being the only surviving son of a soldier killed in World War II — a distinction that exempted him from serving in the Vietnam War — Ellison

chose to go in the fall of 1966 to document the war. His photographs were featured in Ebony, Life, Newsweek, Time and the Saturday Evening Post.

“He knew his job was to portray the reality of war and he turned up at moments the grunts tried to avoid like when the ammo dump went up in flames,” a Marine said of Ellison’s time in Vietnam.

“There was a trench full of very frightened men trying not to get pulverized. It was his job to show the world the ugliness of war in a stark way.”

On March 6, 1968, at the age of 23, the transport plane he was on was shot down as it approached the base in Khe Sanh. Even in death, Ellison was intrinsically tied to the civil

rights movement — just 29 days later, King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis. Though the entire May 1968 issue of Ebony was devoted to King Jr., the magazine saw fit to include a tribute to Ellison as well.

“He was a young white man who lived as Dr. King hoped all white men would live — free of prejudice, full of understanding and respectful of the rights of all men. The world mourns Dr. King. Only the few who knew him mourn Bob. We feel that Dr. King would insist that he be given this space.”

To honor Ellison’s life and work, Lewis and Clark Community College displayed 100 of his photographs in an exhibit entitled “Unfiltered Lens” last August.

located near the Beltline shopping and senior center

In 2023, the RiverBend Growth Association honored two recent retirees for their years of service to the community and the RBGA.

Dick Propes and Karen BakerBrncic were both presented with the Legacy Award during the association’s Chamber Choice Awards in May 2023. The RBGA partnered with Joe Moran of The Unseen Stars Video Productions to produce videos of both Propes and Baker-Brncic in conjunction with the award.

Propes is a retired Alton School District administrator and volunteer with Alton

Propes, Baker-Brncic recognized by RBGA

Memorial Hospital. He served the Riverbend with enthusiasm and unbridled energy, both professionally and in the volunteer world.

Baker-Brncic had operated the Alton Marina since 1996 before retiring in April 2023. She served the Growth Association with countless hours of volunteerism over her decades in the Alton business community.

To see the videos of both Propes and Baker-Brncic, scan the accompanying QR codes or visit growthassociation.com/ chamberchoice.

Godfrey Fire Station

A groundbreaking ceremony was held in the spring of 2023 to start construction on Godfrey’s new fire station and administration building project at 3023 Godfrey Road. Construction on the 15,000-square-foot facility will consolidate current Stations 1 and 2. The completion date for the new fire station will be in 2024.

WE KEEP COMMUNITIES FLOWING

Illinois American Water is proud to support our local union workers and their hard work in keeping water and wastewater service flowing to our customers.

Cleared for

West Star Aviation expanding again in East Alton

ne of the region’s largest employers and economic drivers is set to grow again.

On July 6, 2023, West Star Aviation broke ground on an expansion project that, once completed, will add 75,700 square feet of space to the East Alton facility. The expansion includes 40,000 square feet of new hangar capacity, 22,300 square feet of additional back shop space, and 13,400 square feet of additional storage space.

In full, the expansion will bring the total facility square footage to more than 500,000 square feet.

“The current expansion project for East Alton, Illinois will ensure West Star Aviation will be well-positioned to meet our

customers' needs,” West Star Aviation CEO Jim Rankin said. “This expansion along with the new hangar in Chattanooga, Tennessee shows our continued commitment to implementing sustainable growth that benefits our customers, employees, and the surrounding communities.”

Even before the expansion, West Star was one of the Riverbend’s preeminent

employers, with more than 600 employees working at the East Alton facility. That distinction garnered West Star a spot on the cover of the 2023 edition of Currents.

“The recent rapid growth in the (maintenance, repair and overhaul) industry has accelerated the need to add additional space to our facilities, allowing us to better serve our valued customers

in a timely manner,” West Star Aviation General Manager Brian Bauwens said.

Edwardsville-based Contegra Construction is undertaking the expansion.

“Contegra Construction is proud to partner with West Star Aviation to lead the design-build process for Hangar 67,” Contegra Construction Project Director Jared Lengermann said. “This is the third hanger project Contegra has partnered with West Star in the past ten years.”

Work began in summer of 2023 with hopes of being completed early in 2024.

weststaraviation.com

2 Airline Ct • East Alton • 800-922-2421

Contegra Construction is proud to partner with West Star Aviation to lead the design-build process for Hangar 67.”

Jared Lengermann

CONTEGRA CONSTRUCTION PROJECT DIRECTOR

The RiverBend Growth Association offers a new membership benefit in 2023! Through a partnership with Big Z Media, the RBGA is the new sponsor of Business Over a Brew.

Growth Association members have the opportunity to be interviewed to talk about their business and its services.

advantagenews.com/bizoverabrew

SOME OF THE INTERVIEWEES ARE ...

Scan

Dr. Ken Trzaska

Lewis and Clark Community College

Tammy Iskarous Riverbend Family Ministries

Chris & Erin Velloff

Brown Bag Bistro

By JASON KLEIN Regional Operations Director for

Ameren Illinois

Over the last several years, as my family and I have driven along the Great River Road, we've seen a renaissance taking shape. As Operations Director for Ameren Illinois in the Metro East, I oversee projects to upgrade the local electric grid, the complex network of poles, wires and technology that carry electricity, and our natural gas infrastructure, thousands of miles of underground pipelines that power our appliances and heat our homes in the winter.

Now, I acknowledge that taking in the sights of an increasingly more modern energy delivery system is not what most families do when on a leisurely drive. But these upgrades — whether it is new technology to detect outages, storm-hardening power poles to withstand the impacts of climate change or replacing steel pipe with corrosion-resistant material — are all part of an important transformation that will ensure that homes and businesses in the Riverbend have the energy they need for many years to come.

The clean energy transition

These baseline improvements to our infrastructure are critical to strengthen the reliability and resiliency of the electric grid and prepare for an equitable transition to clean energy in compliance with new state energy policies. Our plan includes initiatives to facilitate the adoption and development

of local, clean energy generation, promoting the long-term growth of cleaner energy, and electrify the downstate Illinois economy.

We know that a steady transition to clean energy is good for the environment, our communities, and our customers, and Metro East residents are starting to experience the benefits. We officially constructed and placed our first solar energy center in service in East St. Louis in 2022. We have plans for a second facility in the Metro East and one in our northern region.

We are also making steady progress in transitioning our fossil-fuel vehicles over to clean energy vehicles. As you can imagine we have a sizeable fleet of heavy-duty and light-duty trucks as well

as other large equipment we use to keep the natural gas flowing and the lights on. We have introduced four electric vehicles, five hybrids and 16 compressed natural gas trucks in the Riverbend area. We also have two electric forklifts.

Planting for pollinators when it's feasible

Our vegetation management team has been working with our colleagues from Ameren Transmission to create a solution to benefit the area's ecosystem while improving safety and customer reliability.

The answer, when it is practical, is to remove the incompatible and non-native woody species and add native pollinator-supporting plants in our rights-ofway that attract monarch butterflies, honeybees, and other pollinators. Native flowering plants also create great ground cover for quail, pheasants, turkeys, and fawns. Planting pollinator-friendly species in our rights-of-way makes our facilities much

more accessible. It is good for the wildlife and safer for our linemen.

Being a good corporate citizen

We play an important role in creating a strong foundation in the Riverbend area and across our service territory.

Ameren Illinois employs a lot of people; we own land in the county and throughout the state, and we pay taxes in the communities where we work and raise our children and grandchildren. We are natural contributors to economic growth, and we give back by supporting the community through our AmerenCares program. In fact, since 2021, we have contributed $140,000 to non-profit organizations in the area.

I am proud to say we will continue our legacy of giving back to the Riverbend area well into the future.

ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER

Everything is flowing smoothly with regards to Illinois American Water’s new Godfrey facility.

Ethan Steinacher, Illinois American Water Senior Manager of Water Quality and Environmental Compliance for the Central Division, said as of late September, construction of a new 60,000-square-foot divisional operations center located at 1151 Airport Road in Godfrey was “on schedule, going according to plan.”

“We anticipate being substantially moved in by the end of 2023,” he said.

The new facility, being built on 25 acres, will house

employees from both the company’s water and wastewater field groups, as well as employees from water quality and compliance and operations support. In time, safety and controls employees and engineers will also call the new building home.

The building will not only be a replacement for the current facility at 4436 Industrial Drive in Alton, but it will also allow for year-round training for field operations personnel, an option not currently available at the Alton site. Training opportunities will include things like sewer cleaning, water main replacement and sewer jetting, among others.

“There will be a dedicated space under roof with offline buried infrastructure that we intend to use for field training purposes, as well as safety training purposes both for water and wastewater employees,” Steinacher said.

The new facility will also incorporate some newer technology on which to train, including sonar-like equipment to remotely determine where blockages might be. Former Alton Fire Chief and current Senior Program Manager of Health & Safety Bernie Sebold said the training aspect will be the first of its kind in the Illinois American Water footprint.

Sebold said he is looking forward to the training opportunities that the new facility will provide.

“This is really an investment in our future when it comes to workforce training,” Sebold said.

Until recently, Steinacher had served as the senior manager of operations for the Central Division, a job now held by Crystal Grant. Grant said roughly 50 to 55 employees will eventually be located in the Godfrey facility.

amwater.com/ilaw

Construction is under way for a 60,000-square-foot divisional operations center at 1151 Airport Road in Godfrey.

#OurRiverBend

Welcoming new patients

HEALTH CARE AT YOUR CONVENIENCE

At OSF HealthCare, our primary care providers partner with you to develop a plan that fits your goals and lifestyle. And with convenient options and extended hours, it has never been easier to take control of your health.

Alton

• Tuesday and Thursday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

• Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.

OSF Medical Group – Primary Care #2 Saint Anthony’s Way, Alton Schedule at: (618) 462-2222 or osfmychart.org

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OSF Medical Group – Primary Care

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• Tuesday, 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

OSF Medical Group – Primary Care 6702 Godfrey Road, Godfrey Schedule at: (618) 467-1520 or osfmychart.org

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• Colin Butterfield, MD

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