Riverbend June 2022

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More than ever, local businesses depend on referrals and word of mouth advertising. In the age of social marketing, a small business can only compete if its customers help promote it. Here is your chance to help promote your favorite local businesses and service companies.

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OBITUARIES Eldon Eugene Rich 75 | Clermont, Florida April 18, 2022

Eldon Rich, age 75, from Clermont, Florida, died on Monday, April 18 after several years of battling cancer. He was born December 12, 1946. He graduated from East AltonWood River High School in 1965. He served in the Navy and retired from Economy Barge Lines in Hartford, IL. After retirement, he and his family moved to Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lavern and Ione Rich and a brother-in-law, Glenn Carr.

Eldon is survived by his wife, Kathie, daughter, Jennifer and son, Justin all of Clermont, FL, a brother, Edward Rich of Wood River, IL, 2 sisters, JoAnne Carr and Eleanor Fleming (David) both of Bethalto, IL, a nephew, John Fleming of Alton, IL, and a niece, Michele Ervin (Scott) and their children, Joshua Ervin of Wood River, IL and John Ervin of Indiana.

There were no services per his request.

BIRTHS A’Nylah Kae Colbert April 24, 2022, 1:48am 5 lbs, 15.8 oz, 19 inches Alton Memorial Hospital

Daughter of Corey Colbert of Chicago and Tamia McArthur of Godfrey. Grandmother is Jaime McArthur of Godfrey, aunt is Jayda McArthur of Alton, greatgrandparents are Theresa and Glenn McArthur of Bethalto, cousins are Vivian, Adair, and Jawan of Alton.

Maveric Charles Meyer May 28, 2021, 3:15 pm 8 lbs, 9 oz, 19 inches Alton Memorial Hospital

Son of William Meyer and Jasmine Akers of Moro. Grandparents are Randy Meyer of East Alton, Heide Meyer of Gore, Okla., James Akers of Cottage Hills, and Susan Akers of Moro. Brother is Trenton, 10, and Ellaina, 6.

Food truck park opens in downtown Alton Flock Food Truck Park officially opened for business on May 12. Flock is a family-friendly venue downtown Alton built to bring friends and family together for delicious, unique food, outdoor fun, and lasting memories.

Flock is the brainchild of Jayne Simmons, president of AltonWorks and Alton resident. Simmons has dreamed of opening a food truck park for quite some time – a place where friends and families can go to pick up a quick, delicious meal and just spend time together.

“This is a great day for the people of Alton and for the future of Alton,” said Simmons. “So many of us believe the City of Alton is perfectly positioned for growth and opportunity for people looking for a friendly, diverse, and interesting place to live, work and play. I hope people see the opening of Flock as another great step forward to helping this community to realize its potential.”

Located at 210 Ridge between Broadway and Landmarks Blvd. and adjacent to the Jacoby Arts Center, Flock will serve people from around Alton and the region with a variety of culinary choices sure to please people of all ages. Flock will periodically host food trucks for lunch and dinner with a growing rotation throughout the summer. Specialty cocktails and a rotating draft beer menu will be featured at Flock, to ensure there is always something new.

People can also stop off at their favorite local eatery or bring food from home and enjoy the Flock bar and outdoor dining, as well.

Flock is owned and

MEMORIAL DAY

is a solemn day of mourning, a sacred day of remembrance to honor those who paid the ultimate price for our freedoms.

Businesses close for the day and our area is holding parades honoring the fallen. The parade routes end at a local cemetery, where Memorial Day speeches are given and prayers offered up. Families take the time to clean and decorate with flowers and flags the graves of those that fell in service to our country.

“We need to stop and pay with sincere conviction our respects for those who died protecting and preserving the freedoms we enjoy, for we owe those honored more than we can ever repay.

So as family and friends gather to celebrate this special holiday with picnics and cookouts, remember to teach our children the true meaning of the day.

Show others by our actions that we will not forget.

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recreation and unique entertainment spaces like community parks can also attract tourists.

operated by Laura and Matt Windisch who also own the wildly successful Stacked Burger Bar in St. Louis. They moved to Alton in 2018 from St. Louis in large part because of the city’s revitalization currently underway.

Earlier in her career, Laura worked at a tapas restaurant and loved the idea of making a meal by sharing small plates together. Overhearing the conversations about the food and drinks around the table brought her so much joy. She believes the same experience can be had at Flock. Grab a cocktail or beer, maybe an item or two from each truck, share and

Matt has a background in music and believes the world is a better place with lots of musical sounds. He and Laura love the idea of featuring local bands to make for a fun night out.

Throughout the year, Flock will host holiday themed events, maker’s markets, comedy nights and lots of entertainment to keep people coming back for more.

“We believe Alton is the perfect-sized city to remake one building, one park, one street and one opportunity at a time. By focusing on downtown Alton, we hope to improve the lifestyle of everyone in Alton.” For Jayne and her husband John Simmons, the first step in imagining a new downtown Alton was to acquire a variety of buildings and properties to protect them and the beautiful architectural heritage of Alton. The Simmons purchased the lot at 210 Ridge and will be building a community park next to the Flock. Although the park site is currently a gravel parking lot, later this year it will transform into an outdoor green space to provide guests the opportunity to unwind, play and relax.

Research shows that city parks and open spaces improve our physical and mental health, strengthen communities, and make cities and neighborhoods more attractive places to live and work. Open

Food truck operators interested in participating at the food truck park can contact the Windisches at hello@flockalton.com.

For a daily schedule and food truck line up go to facebook.com/flock.alton. 3

talk about your favorites!

Tourism bureau awarded Route 66 grant Revitalizing the Last 100 Miles of Route 66 in southwest Illinois is no longer a dream but a reality, thanks to a $919,000 Route 66 Grant awarded to the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau by the state.

The grant will fund community murals, a new Route 66 Interpretative Visitor Center in Edwardsville, Mother Road monuments in several communities and reopening the historic Cannonball

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Jail in Carlinville. Those projects are all interlocking pieces of a revitalized Route 66 envisioned by the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau of Southwest Illinois.

The Tourism Bureau applied for a grant under the Route 66 Grant Program administered by DCEO and the Illinois Office of Tourism. The grant funds are available to certified Destination Marketing Organizations in Illinois who represent and promote the Mother Road.

“We have to thank the Illinois Office of Tourism, DCEO and our local state elected officials including State Sen. Rachelle Crowe, State Sen. Doris Turner and State Rep. Katie Stuart for their foresight in funding and approving this grant application,” Cory Jobe, President/CEO of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau said. “In four years, Route 66 will celebrate its centennial birthday. We want to be part of the Illinois and national celebration with a new and exciting stretch of the Mother Road in southwest Illinois. This

grant will enable us to do that and help communities along the Last 100 Miles of Route 66 in Illinois shine.”

The interlinking projects support the regional approach to tourism the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau has promoted over the years.

The project also includes sites strategically located in small town business districts which will in turn drive visitors to restaurants and retail storefronts. It is also designed to increase the amount of time and dollars travelers spend in Illinois communities prior to crossing the state line to Missouri.

“Regionalism is the key to success with tourism campaigns,” Jobe said. “No single town can win on its own. Regional destination marketing and development highlights the charm, appeal and recreational opportunities of our communities and creates a destination appealing to the 25 million people located within a three-hour drive of the area. 3

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Sierra Club Illinois Three Rivers Project celebrates success of Earth Month events The Three Rivers Project of Sierra Club Illinois is celebrating the success of a myriad of activities commemorating Earth Month! Over the past month, the Three Rivers Project partnered with several local businesses, environmental and conservation organizations, and the local Sierra Club group—the Piasa Palisades Group— to encourage action and participation in initiatives that focus on the urgent need for environmental justice, conservation, and climate solutions. These events and initiatives are made possible through the dedication of local volunteers, whose hard work as citizen scientists and environmental advocates aid in the protection and preservation of the beautiful Piasa Palisades region.

“As a grassroots organization, volunteers are not only integral to the day-to-day work we do, but also help guide our vision for a cleaner, greener Illinois,” says Three Rivers Project co-Coordinator Christine Favilla. “The efforts of local volunteers over the past month are proof of volunteers’ capacity to change their local communities

for the better. We’re so grateful to the leadership of the Piasa Palisades Group, our partnerships with local business and other environmental and conservation organizations, and to the countless volunteers who show up time and time again to protect our environment.”

Throughout April and May, the Three Rivers Project participated in three litter clean-ups to preserve and protect the Mississippi River, four native tree and plant plantings, and several community events to educate local residents about environmental issues in the Metro East region, such as

three seed swaps. Over the course of the two river cleanups, volunteers collected over 1,500 pounds of trash and recyclable material.

The April 27 clean-up event with volunteers from the Three Rivers Project and Living Lands & Waters yielded a mind boggling accumulation of trash, including: 189 square feet of foam, two pounds of scrap metal, 52 pounds of plastic, three five-gallon buckets, two basketballs, four tires, a TV, a fridge, and other miscellaneous items.

In addition to local cleanup efforts, the Three Rivers Project of Illinois is partnering with the

National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC) and the city of Alton to plant native plants and trees throughout downtown Alton. Over the course of two planting sessions, volunteers planted 54 native trees in Piasa Park, the Riverfront Park, the Wadlow Restoration Site, and at the Hampton Gardens. This project, which is made possible thanks to a Recover, Replant, Restore! Grant from Trees Forever, will help provide tree canopy cover to green spaces throughout Alton.

These efforts are critical to improving recreation areas in the community while also supporting the ecology of

the Metro East region.

“We were thrilled to celebrate local volunteers and our partner organizations at a recent Barge Bash on Living Lands & Waters’ Classroom Barge, which is docked at the National Great Rivers Museum in East Alton,” says Favilla. “Volunteers do so much to protect and preserve our unique ecosystem in the

Metro East region, and we look forward to continuing to work alongside them in service of our shared planet and to celebrating their accomplishments.”

To get involved with Sierra Club Illinois, visit sierraclub. org/illinois/piasa-palisades or contact Christine Favilla at christine.favilla@ sierraclub.org. 3

Looking for anyone who worked at Granite City Steel from 1957-1990 that knew Charles “Curt/Charlie” Williams. Please contact Jennifer O’Keefe at 314-320-0508.

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JUNE 2022 | 3

Vintage Voices sets auditions date The Vintage Voices committee has set an audition date for the 2022 edition of Vintage Voices. Auditions will be held Saturday, June 25, at YWCA of Alton, 304 E. 3rd St., Alton. Actors wanting to audition should arrive anytime between 10 am and 2 pm and will be asked to do a cold reading. The event consists of tours held in the Alton Cemetery with actors in period costumes telling the story of Altonians who have shaped the area’s history. Auditions will be held to cast the roles of nine characters in a variety of ages, gender,

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“Vintage Voices highlights the stories of so many people who contributed to the Alton area: people who were often well-known during their lifetimes, but whose legacies are now buried in books and newspaper articles. We need you to help bring these stories back to life! Please come out for auditions June 25, 2022,” says Lacy McDonald, Historian and Secretary.

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Alton Cemetery (5th and Vine Streets.) Mark your calendars for the first two weekends in October: 1, 2, 8, 9. The hour-long walking tours begin at noon each day and leave from the main gate on Vine Street in Alton every 15-20 minutes. A nonwalking performance will be held Sunday, October 9, at Jacoby Arts Center, 627 East Broadway, Alton. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students with ID and will be available July 1 at eventbrite. com. For more information, email altonvintagevoices@ yahoo.com. 3 facebook.com/ vintagevoicestours

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OF THE

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By Mark Ellebracht

The month of May means graduation for many high schools and colleges around our area, so congratulations to the seniors! You’re told to go out and make a difference, that you are the future, and you just might change the world.

But let’s be honest, that’s after you sleep in just a little more, visit a few more times with friends and stop by the many graduation parties for a cookie, a burger, and a piece of cake while meeting the aunts and uncles of your school mates that you’ll likely never see again.

On that thought, what’s the appropriate time to stay for a graduation open house? Ten minutes, two hours? What’s the record number of parties you’ve tried to visit in one day? A graduation party can mean a simple gathering at your home, renting out a hall or park pavilion, or filling a banquet room at your favorite local restaurant.

I’m always good at trying some cake. In fact, I took home 8 pieces a few weeks ago, and there was still about half remaining. I could have taken it all, but then people would talk. Can you freeze it, like a wedding cake? Thaw it out when they graduate college? We’ll never know...8 pieces in 3

days...it might be my new record. (It’s OK, they were small pieces).

We shipped our older child off to college during the height of COVID and will ship off our younger child in a few months. Both of their graduation experiences were very different. In 2020, graduation was delayed but eventually held outside in July, but we lucked out with great weather and a great set-up right in front of the school. Graduation 2022 was more traditional...inside in the A/C and had all the bells and whistles of the end of a school year. Both were perfect and everyone seemed to enjoy it.

But if you are the parent of a graduate, you’re likely wondering how did this happen? I mean, I know how it happened, but how does the passage of time occur so quickly when you aren’t looking. Time stands still

when we want it to move and is like a bullet train when we need it to slow down...just a little. But, as parents, it’s our job to get our kids to a point where they can venture out on their own for a while. Hopefully they’ve listened when you offer advice or show them how to put gas in the car, know where the insurance card is kept, and how to visit a doctor’s office by themselves. If they didn’t pay attention, they’ll figure it out. They will! Trust your kids.

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But here’s the next question, how long will they be out of the house? A few years, a few months, a few weeks?

Here’s another…is this our last summer at home all at the same time? Maybe, maybe not. We can play the “what if” game forever, but we’d miss out on simple moments of the day-to-day life we’ve created. I’m bored!

What’s for dinner? I can’t find anything to wear!

Pretty soon, my wife and I will be the only ones making those statements, so we’ll just enjoy the next few months of togetherness and see what the fall brings with that so-called “empty nest.” Honestly, based on the amount of stuff we’ve accumulated, “empty” is not a word I’d use. 3

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JUNE 2022 | 5

Summertime sees arrival of local farmers markets

By Frank Prager Big Z Media Summertime always heralds the arrival of the local area farmers markets and their inviting array of fresh food and handcrafted products.

The quality of locally grown plants, produce and food items along with the intriguing variety of handcrafted products makes shopping a farmers market a different adventure every time. Our local area hosts some of the best farmers markets in the Midwest and the summer months are bringing them into full swing.

Alton Main Street Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market, now in its 30th year, kicked off on May 7 and is one of the biggest in the area. Shoppers can find a wide selection of locally-grown seasonal fruits and vegetables along with meats, eggs, honey, fresh bread and other baked goods. In addition, fresh cut flowers, potted plants and a large assortment of pottery, stained glass, soap, candles and woodworking items are generally available.

Sara McGibany, executive director of Alton Main Street, credits the ongoing success of the market to a number of factors. “I attribute its growth to increased interest of customers who want

Tammy White of Earthly Goods with some of the plants the business sells at Alton Main Street Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market. [photos by Frank Prager] to know where their food comes from,” she says. “We also do our very best to incorporate feedback from farmers and artists to make sure the event operates in a way that best serves them.” McGibany also points out a farmers market serves as a highly effective small business incubator, noting it is a low-risk and low-overhead atmosphere where vendors can test their ideas and get to know their customers.

The market in Alton is held every Saturday morning from 8 am - noon in the parking lot at the corner

of Landmarks Boulevard and Henry Street in Alton.

It typically has 80 to 90 vendors and draws several thousand customers each week. Information for anyone interested in becoming a vendor can be found on the events page at downtownalton.com.

Bethalto Farmers Market starts its fourth year on June 5. The market is held every Sunday from 9 am - 1 pm through the second week of October at Bethalto Central Park located at 213 North Prairie Street. Jane Ahasay is a board member on the Bethalto Spirit Group,

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Woody Peterson of Peterson Farms started the East Alton Farmers Market this year.

Kettle corn booths like this one at the Wood River Farmers Market are a favorite of shoppers. a nonprofit organization which sponsors civic events in Bethalto. She heads up the market and says it is growing every year.

“We’re excited about bringing people to the area and making fresh produce and local crafts available,” she says. She points out the market has over 20 vendors and offers a selection of plants, produce, honey, meat and hand-crafted goods.

“We’re always looking for additional vendors,” she says. Anyone interested in becoming a vendor or learning more about the market can call Ahasay directly at 618-240-2777 or get information on Facebook.

Roxana Farmers Market is a mainstay in the area and is held at the Roxana Dads Club at 417 Roxana Avenue every Monday from 4 - 8 pm from the first Monday of July through the end of September.

Roxana Mayor Barb Overton explains the market is focused on benefiting the community.

“Rather than charging a fee, we ask vendors to provide donations,” says Overton.

“Last year we collected school supplies, personal care items and coats for the local community.” Anyone interested in participating as a vendor can contact Overton directly at 618254-1166, extension 1 or by emailing her at mayor@ southroxana.org.

Now in its 15th year, Wood River Farmers Market is held every Thursday from 4 pm until dusk from July through September.

Sponsored by the Wood River Parks and Recreation Department, the market is held in the parking lot behind the shops on

Ferguson Avenue between 1st and 2nd Streets.

Alyssa Daniels is the recreation supervisor for the city and says the market is convenient and easy to get to. “Because it is in the evening, people can stop by on their way home from work,” she says.

Information about the event or becoming a vendor can be found by going to the events section of the city’s website at wrparks.org.

Also celebrating its 15th year is the Jerseyville Farmers Market. Held Tuesday evenings from 4 - 7 pm, it starts on June 21 and runs until September 27. It is located in the parking lot of Outrageous Outdoors, located at 902 South State Street.

Whitney McIver is the special events coordinator for the city. She explains a unique feature of the market is that local businesses stay open late the last Tuesday of the month. “People can go to the market and then go shopping or have dinner or a drink afterwards,” she says.

Information about the Jerseyville Farmers Market is available on Facebook.

Vendors can register online by going to jcba-il.us/market.

“We have a big variety of items,” says McIver. “If people haven’t been here, they should definitely come check it out.”

New to the area this year is East Alton Farmers Market. It was started

by Woody Peterson of Peterson’s Family Farms in East Alton and is held in the parking lot of Eastgate Shopping Center every Tuesday from 3 - 7 pm. It started April 19 and will run through October 25.

Peterson says about 35 vendors have signed up and the event has drawn around 2,000 people so far.

“We’re just trying to bring as many people to the area as possible and help the local economy,” he says.

Vendor items include hand crafted goods as well as pork rinds, flowers and vegetables, barbecue sauce, desserts, locally made honey and baked goods. Anyone interested in participating as a vendor can contact Peterson at 618-530-1880.

Whether you are looking for the salty-sweet taste of fresh-cooked kettle corn, the luscious flavor of locally homegrown produce or just interested in browsing an endless spectrum of creative handcrafted items, the farmers markets taking place in the area’s local communities will have something for everyone this summer. 3

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Criminal Justice students, faculty and staff who worked on the project, stand behind the bench located near the north entrance to Haskell Hall.

L&C bench dedication honors girls killed in 1969 Lewis and Clark Community College’s Criminal Justice program held a garden bench dedication in remembrance of a pair of Monticello Women’s Junior College students who vanished on Memorial Day weekend in 1969.

Elizabeth Perry, of Excelsior, Minn., and Susan Davis, of Camp Point, Elizabeth Perry Pa., both 19, met as Monticello students and were vacationing in Ocean City, N.J. The women were last seen on May 30, 1969 at a restaurant in Sommers Point, NJ. A state trooper later found their blue 1966 Chevrolet convertible abandoned on the Garden State Parkway and had it towed. Three days later, their bodies were found about 200 yards from the highway.

Although law enforcement has followed many leads and theories over the years, the case has not been solved and the investigation remains open.

After learning about the story, L&C Criminal Justice Associate Professor Jessica Noble decided to engage her students in a service project.

“We decided to create a memorial garden and bench outside of Haskell Hall on the Godfrey Campus,” she said. “The area will help the community at large have a place to reflect and take a moment of silence for the two women and other crime victims.”

Criminal Justice student Rosie Gogue believes the bench dedication is not only meaningful for the women

Dr. Wendy Frazier provides primary care for patients of all ages. She also offers annual wellness exams, well-child exams, school physicals, vaccinations, sports physicals and well-woman exams.

who were murdered, but to every woman who is victimized without cause.

“This stresses the importance of raising awareness of cases that have gone cold,” she said. “One day, we hope that justice can come for these families.”

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Noble credits her Criminal Justice students, as well as several individuals, organizations and L&C departments for making the project happen, including L&C President Ken Trzaska, The Monticello College Foundation and Director of Development Debby Edelman, the Illinois Education Association (IEA) Region 45 and the IEA 45 Retired Chapter, Greg Cash of L&C Library Services, L&C welding students and Program Coordinator Travis Jumper, L&C Horticulture Manager Ethan Braasch and Landscape Designer Katie Piper.

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To learn more about the murders of Perry and Davis, Noble recommends the book “The Garden State Parkway Murders” by Christian Barth, a nonfiction work that provides information surrounding the two students and the investigation.

For more information about L&C’s Criminal Justice program, contact Noble at 618-468-4524 or jbnelson@ lc.edu. 3

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Family and faith are the keys to GRP | Wegman’s success

By Mike Adams Big Z Media It was a beautiful day. Tom DeClue was out on his regular morning jog when a thought dropped into his mind. It was what you might call a “still small voice” telling him, “You need to buy Wegman Electric.” It was an impression he couldn’t get past, though Wegman was not for sale at the time.

Tom finally made the call.

One year to the day later, the deal was closed and GRP | Wegman became a reality. This was a historical expansion, as there were no other mechanical contractors in the region that also would offer electrical contracting, but those kinds of bold business moves, inspired by faith, were the family legacy of GRP. GRP began with Tom DeClue’s grandfather, an eighth-grade educated farm boy who started the business as an HVAC company and eventually grew to about six employees. DeClue’s father, who had attended school in Rolla where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering grew the company to its current physical size, expanding the business into new areas and growing its revenue to $10 million to $15 million per year.

Tom DeClue continued the legacy of a strong work ethic, driven by faith and family focus when he began working for the company.

But he didn’t start in the office. DeClue began as a pipefitter/welder for his first 12 years at the family business. While doing so he went through the long process of working hard days and attending school at night to earn his bachelor’s degree in business. That was an experience that he feels is invaluable in helping him relate to employees.

He has been there and understands the challenges.

According to DeClue, his faith has played a huge part in forming his business ethics and entrepreneurial spirit. In fact, he feels that earning money to help

others and help advance his faith community is a calling and one that he takes very seriously.

between September through November of 2019, and then came COVID. It was a onetwo punch.

When GRP purchased Wegman Electrical, Wegman owned Lowery Electric as well, which became a part of the merger. Bringing two companies together came with its challenges but according to DeClue, with the right people and the right culture, you can succeed.

It was during COVID that DeClue and the management team, while working from home, took time to do a deep dive and evaluate four years of financial data. That exploration led to some difficult discoveries. About five of the nine divisions were often dipping into the negative and losing money. These departments were filled with friends and were areas the company had been involved with for many years. It meant for the company to continue to thrive they needed to make some hard decisions, and the team decided it was time to close down those five areas of business.

At the time, their contracts with the Phillips 66 refinery accounted for about 50 percent of GRP’s revenue and 80 percent of the revenue for

Watch Tom DeClue on Big Z Media’s “BUSINESS OVER A BREW” advnews.link/ declue

Wegman annually. All of that would soon change in what would be one of the most challenging, faith-stretching seasons that DeClue would face.

In negotiating a new contract with Phillips 66 there were some real hurdles to overcome. The final proposal that the GRP | Wegman management team submitted would have actually cost GRP | Wegman about $2.5 million dollars for the first three years, leaving only two years of the period that would be profitable. But when Phillips proposed that the contract only include the mechanical side of the company without the electrical, the management team decided to pass.

That was a tough decision for GRP | Wegman financially that led to laying off about 260 employees

Don’t let hearing loss keep you from enjoying life to the fullest!

DeClue’s faith, lots of prayer, and trust guided him and the team through those difficult days. With the help of PPP funds and restructuring of the company, they landed on their feet.

When you look at growth areas today, and GRP | Wegman’s focus on providing great service to their clients, it was clearly the right decision.

Employees understood that the decisions made helped to right the ship and move the company forward in the long run. Now the GRP | Wegman is exploding with new work, and bringing on more employees, particularly in the area of industrial-sized HVAC systems. The future is looking bright.

According to DeClue, going through difficult circumstances and holding onto your faith gives you a clearer perspective. You can focus on what’s most important. And for GRP | Wegman, maintaining the culture of family and faith has been key. According to DeClue, when the company culture is right, difficulties are easier to manage, productivity and safety are elevated and people enjoy coming to work each day. 3

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ARIES (March 21 to April 19) You might have to turn your Arian charm up a few degrees if you hope to persuade that persistent pessimist to see the possibilities in your project. Whatever you do, don’t give up.

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More than 140 women and men came together on Thursday evening to celebrate United Way’s Southwest Illinois Division’s sixth annual Power of the Purse, raising $16,058 to help local people. Since its inception in 2015, the Power of the Purse has raised over $100,000 to support 162 local health and human service agencies serving the St. Louis region.

Held at the Lewis and Clark Community College – N.O. Nelson Campus, this year’s Power of the Purse included both silent and live auctions featuring handbags, scarves, jewelry and accessories.

“We were thrilled to once again bring the community together and host the Power of the Purse after having

important decision.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Concentrate your focus on what needs to be done, and avoid frittering away your energies on lessimportant pursuits.

There’ll be time later for fun and games.

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TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A “tip” about a co-worker’s “betrayal” might well raise the Bovine’s rage levels.

But before charging into a confrontation, let an unbiased colleague do some fact-checking.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Although a relationship still seems to be moving too slowly to suit your expectations, it’s best not to push it.

Let it develop at its own pace. You’ll soon get news about a workplace change.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Although the conflicts seem to be letting up, you still need to be wary of being drawn into workplace intrigues.

Plan a special weekend event for family and/or friends.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Your quick wit helps you work through an already difficult situation without creating more problems.

Creative aspects begin to dominate by the week’s end.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A continually changing personal situation makes you feel as if you’re riding an emotional roller coaster.

But hold on tight; stability starts to set in early next week.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Be patient. You’ll soon receive news about a project that means so much to you.

Meanwhile, you might want to reconsider a suggestion you previously turned down.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Believe it or not, someone might dare to say “No!” to the Regal One’s suggestion. But instead of being miffed, use this rebuff to recheck the proposition and, perhaps, make some changes.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) There are still some aspects about that new job offer you need to resolve. In the meantime, another possibility seems promising. Be sure to check that out as well.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) You might find it difficult to make a decision about a family matter. But delay can only lead to more problems.

Seek out trusted counsel and then make that

United Way’s Power of the Purse raises over $16,000

10 | JUNE 2022

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PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Opening up your emotional floodgates could leave you vulnerable to being hurt later on. Watch what you say, in order to avoid having your words come back to haunt you. 3

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See puzzle solutions to postpone it the past two years,” said Maura Wuellner, director of United Way of Greater St. Louis – Southwest Illinois Division.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated, purchased a ticket or item, to our sponsors and our volunteer planning committee for their strong support and in making it possible to bring this event back.”

United Way of Greater St. Louis’ Southwest Illinois Division and its partner agencies help 200,000 people each year in Madison, Macoupin, Greene, Jersey and Calhoun counties. 3

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Concerts In The Park start June 9 ALTON MUNICIPAL BAND KICKS OFF ITS 132ND SEASON

By Frank Prager Big Z Media From the LincolnDouglas debates to Robert Wadlow to its legacy as a manufacturing town and popular tourist attraction, the Alton area is imbued with rich historical context and a vibrant cultural scene. Among the wealth of benefits area residents enjoy is the unique opportunity to enjoy concerts performed by a resident municipal band.

The modern American community band is rooted in European tradition.

Immigrants brought the band tradition to the United States, organizing groups in the towns in which they settled. It is estimated there were 10,000 municipal bands in the country in the

late 1800s. Of the bands in existence then, the Alton Municipal Band is one of only about 100 which have continuously performed since that time.

Organized in 1891, the group was originally named the White Hussar Band after the light cavalry regiments famous in Central Europe during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later renamed the Alton Municipal Band, the ensemble has performed continuously since its inception and will continue that tradition with its 132nd season this year.

Adam Rodgers is the band’s board president and has been with the organization for 15 years.

He works in the field of music education and is

The Alton Municipal Band performing a special Christmas concert at Alton Mall. [photo by Frank Prager]

The band was organized in 1891 and was originally called the White Hussar Band.

enthusiastic about the excitement the band brings to the local area. “Alton is very fortunate to have this community ensemble,

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as many towns no longer have city bands for their residents,” he says.

“Concerts in the Park” are held at 7:30 pm every Thursday at Riverview Park and at 7 pm every Sunday at Haskell Park every week throughout the season. The band’s 2022 season kicks off with a concert at 7:30 pm at Riverview Park on June 9 and at 7 pm in Haskell Park on June 12. Rodgers says the community is extremely supportive of the group.

“The two neighborhoods where the band regularly performs are wonderfully supportive of the band, often having events before or in conjunction with concerts, coming out to watch performances and helping out in other ways where they can.”

The band consists of about 40 members and draws from a rich pool of area talent seeking an outlet for their musical abilities. Rodgers says members come from all over the St. Louis area with the core group composed of Alton and Godfrey area residents. The band consists

of music educators, talented community members and students from area high schools and colleges.

Rodgers says the band strives for good music and good quality performances.

“It’s a wonderful group of people who make great music for a great community,” he says.

The band is led by directors David Drillinger and Jennifer Shenberger.

Concerts have weekly themes ranging from jazz and patriotic music to show tunes. The group performs a special concert for children every year which includes superhero and movie songs.

“We try to make sure every interest is covered,” says Rodgers.

In addition to regular weekly concerts, the band has special seasonal performances such as 4th of July and Christmas shows.

It often has special guest soloists and performers which have included nationally known talent like Erin Bode and members of the St. Louis symphony orchestra.

The band’s entertainment appeals to families and children with a special focus on items of interest to them.

JoJo the clown entertains and leads a children’s parade before concerts. Last year,

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Anyone wishing to support or participate in events can talk to the band director at a concert or contact the organization by emailing info@altonmunyband.org.

Information about concert schedules, including weekly themes and special events, can be found on the band’s Facebook page. The band holds open auditions every May and welcomes area musicians to try out.

Rodgers says the band is looking forward to kicking off its 132nd season and that it will have something for everyone throughout the year. Young and old alike are encouraged to come out to enjoy and support this local treasure. 3

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Rodgers says anyone wishing to support the band can help in many ways and explains that people can sponsor individual concerts if they wish. “It’s a great way to honor loved ones who have passed or special family or business events,” he says. Sponsors receive a special certificate commemorating the concert and the name of their dedication is announced at the concert event.

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the band held a special performance of Peter and the Wolf, narrated by St. Louis radio and television personality Heidi Glaus.

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Riverbend Head Start & Family Services hires new manager Recently, Riverbend Head Start & Family Services (RHSFS) hired Precious Frazier as the new staffing and training manager. She comes to the agency with over 10 years of combined experience in management and human resources.

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and orientation, ensuring compliance, monitoring credentials, and developing and implementing training strategies.

Upon employment, Frazier expressed, “I am excited to join the team at Riverbend Head Start and Family Services Frazier In Precious’ and continue current role, she implementing works closely with the change and impacting the hiring supervisors and the lives of others.” Precious human resources director, believes that in order to managing full cycle have a better community, employee recruitment and we must first start with overseeing onboarding ourselves. 3

With summer approaching, Madison County Transit (MCT) is once again offering free rides on fixedroute buses for Madison County students (age 18 and under) with the 2022 MCT Summer Youth Pass.

The MCT Summer Youth Pass is valid Memorial Day to Labor Day and allows Madison County students in kindergarten through 12th grade an opportunity to ride MCT for free all summer long.

The program has created vital transportation access for Madison County youth since 2008. This year, approximately 9,000 passes have been distributed to junior high/middle school and high schools throughout Madison County. Students or parents can obtain a free MCT Summer Youth Pass by visiting their school office or by contacting MCT at YouthPass@mct. org or 618-797-4600.

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provided Madison County students with a free and safe way to access summer jobs and classes, shopping, pools, parks, and more,” said MCT Managing Director SJ Morrison. “And with fuel prices at an all-time high, there’s never been a better time to try transit!”

In addition to the MCT Fixed-Route bus system, MCT also owns and maintains more than 138 miles of scenic Madison County bikeways, known as the MCT Trails. With bike racks on all MCT buses and bus stops at MCT Trailheads, students can also “Bike & Bus” for a seamless ride on both the MCT Trails and buses.

MCT’s bus routes, stops and schedules are all available on Google Maps, allowing users to simply enter the start and end point of their trip, click the “Get Directions” feature and then select the bus icon for a full trip itinerary. 3

room.

By Bill Roseberry Big Z Media It’s inevitable that by the time this review releases about this complex in northwestern Madison County it has probably grown again.

This place has become an institution in this community with its monster layout, great food and entertainment and constant evolution. Enjoy a chill night on the patio when weather allows, go inside the giant new addition for drinks, food and some live music, or head to the classic neighborhood bar portion that stood prior to expansion.

There’s something for everyone.

You’ll find a large paved parking lot on one side of the restaurant. If that’s full, travel to the other side, past the small banquet hall they also own, and grab a spot in that smaller parking area.

On my recent visit with a group of buddies we set up shop in the huge, newer addition. There are long wooden tables situated around the outside walls with stools to pony up to them. A large horseshoe bar stands out in the middle of the room with chairs all around it. A plethora of televisions fill the room, mainly featuring sporting events for your entertainment. There are also some smaller tables in the front portion of the dining

My friends and I grabbed one of the high wooden tables along the outside wall and got a gander at a menu. This is where you’ll start to fall in love.

One person in our group kicked our experience off with a sampler platter from the appetizer menu. This features mozzarella sticks, mini tacos, toasted ravioli and fried mushrooms and there is plenty to share.

I have to focus on the mozzarella sticks. First of all they are misnamed, they should be renamed mozzarella logs because they are gargantuan. They are some of the biggest I’ve ever seen and they are popping with flavor. They are ooey-gooey delicious and mouthwatering.

The toasted ravioli and mushrooms were standouts, too. The mushrooms had a homemade vibe to them and the ravioli was bursting with flavor.

Trying not to stuff myself too much on apps, I saved room for a creation from the awesome build-your-ownburger portion of the menu.

I actually traded in the hamburger for a grilled chicken breast, which I then dressed with tomato, caramelized onions, bacon, guacamole and cheddar cheese. It arrived on an

Overall: artisan bun which was doughy and delicious and a great vehicle for the super tender and juicy chicken. The guacamole and caramelized onions added a great flavor punch also.

It was accompanied by a side of steak fries, which were great, featuring a hearty taste as well. They were super tender and not too salty either.

There are so many more choices on the menu, too.

Choose between salads, chicken wings, fish options, a ton of sandwiches, steaks, pasta and pizzas.

Check out stuff like their signature shrimp salad with a habanero ranch dressing, wings with sauces like stingin’ honey garlic or Korean pepper, fish tacos, a giant pork tenderloin sandwich, or an 8-ounce sirloin, or the 12-ounce ribeye. Pizza selections like the bacon cheeseburger or the Philly cheesesteak surely won’t disappoint either.

Of course there are a slew of adult beverages

Cleanliness: Service: Food: Price: Any idea of the name of this restaurant?

Check the puzzle solutions to see if you are right. to enjoy, too. Anything from signature cocktails to spirits or draft and bottled beer. I’m intrigued by the snickerdoodle cocktail featuring Rumchata, butterscotch liquor, amaretto, a housemade cinnamon sugar and caramel sauce rim and a cinnamon stick.

I washed all my yummy food down with a classic Blue Moon with an orange slice on my visit. 3

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business of the day Every weekday in May we have been saluting a “Business of the Day” on 107.1 FM, The Big Z. If you’ve been listening each day and kept track of the businesses, you can enter to WIN UP TO $200 IN GOODS AND SERVICES from one of the participating sponsors. If you’ve missed any, just scan the QR codes below for the missing day’s information.

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Let us never forget our solemn pledge

By Joseph Reagan On Memorial Day, 1945, the war in Europe had ended but the fighting in the Pacific continued, Lt. Gen. Lucian Truscott voiced remarks at the Sicily-Rome American Cemetery at Nettuno, Italy. Turning his back on the assembled VIP’s he faced the rows upon rows of headstones and apologized to the 20,000 fallen Americans who had been laid to rest far from home. He was quoted as saying, “All over the world our soldiers sleep beneath the crosses. It is a challenge to us – all allied nations – to ensure that they do not and have not died in vain.”

Fast forward to Memorial Day 2022, and the familiar voices of brothers in arms begin to call one another on the phone. People usually think of reconnecting with former military buddies as a joyous happening. However, for

14 | JUNE 2022

this Memorial Day, the topic of conversation was not an armistice, a promotion, or even a daughter’s wedding or new addition to a home, it was about the latest in a string of suicides that silence the voice of our brothers but brought renewed connections from other familiar voices. One desperately said, “Sir, I needed to call someone who could understand this.”

Everyone in the greatest generation understood war. At home they experienced rationing, schoolchildren collected scrap, and women took up factory jobs while overseas the troops endured combat and were witness to some of the largest and most brutal atrocities in the modern age. When the war was over, they followed the lead of Lt. Gen Truscott and committed their lives to ensure that they “have not died in vain.” The shared sacrifice of a generation united them and helped them solve

tough problems.

In subsequent wars, such as the Korean and Vietnam era, Veterans did not experience the same level of understanding and thus either turned their voice inward or used their voice to fight for one another on subjects that varied from Agent Orange, PTSD, and other oncesilent conditions.

The War on Terror introduced a unique time in our nation’s collective history as acts of war played out in real-time on our media devices. Although only one percent of Americans served post 9/11, it seems 100 percent of the country used their voice to express their opinions of this shared history as it unfolded.

For Korea and Vietnam Veterans, war was not a shared experience and therefore various voices having various opinions helped further the national conversation regarding

the treatment of veterans leading to safer and more thoughtful approaches. Unlike the veterans of Korea and Vietnam, the veterans of the last several decades did not return home to the voices of dissent that could be addressed directly, instead, they returned to a polite nation that creates media of dissent and very little opportunity for honest, open dialog.

This new era of media, learning, and personal discussions bring rise to the question, “Do people really remember why we hold our veterans in a place of honor?” For years, voices saying meaningless phrases like “the enemy gets a vote” or “there’s nothing you could have done” were meant to comfort those of us who have held the heavy responsibility of leading troops in combat. However, many people seem to lack the understanding that our hearts have been forever scarred by the

invisible wounds of war, scarred by guilt and grief, and by the longing for forgiveness that will never come. Even if forgiveness was offered, it would be hard to accept as no mere words can undo a life experience and because of this, we often feel isolated, misunderstood, and undervalued therefore our voices remain silent.

As conversations with the voice on the other end of the phone come to its inevitable conclusion, I am reminded that to remain silent is a betrayal of my obligation to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

As Horace Bushnell once said, the best thing for us to do is to remember “what they have put it on us to do for the dear common country to which they sold their life.” As we gather as one nation this Memorial Day, my hope is that instead of directing shallow words of gratitude at each other, we do as Lt. Gen. Truscott did and

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One such issue needing to be addressed is helping Veterans find purpose in their post-service lives.

Truscott’s apology to the dead are not empty words, but a strong voice reminding us that we have an obligation to choose resilience and purpose when faced with guilt or grief. As an example, Gold Star Families, who have experienced tremendous loss, continue to serve their communities to maintain the legacy of the loved one they

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direct our gratitude directly towards those who made the ultimate sacrifice. In both our words and actions, let us all commit ourselves to serve the country to which they gave their lives.

While there is still much work to be done, the generation of Veterans from this century have access to vast resources, life-saving technology, and increased information. This same generation of Veterans is just now starting to define our post-service legacy and like our grandparents, return home with a deep commitment to service, and a desire to address the many problems that we face.

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INSURANCE lost. I often recall a colleague of mine responding to the question “why do you do so much to help Veterans?” he simply held up his finger, choking back tears he responded, “for the one I couldn’t save.” By choosing to use his voice to advocate for other veterans, he not only helped them find their purpose – he found his own.

It’s often said that for those who have served “every day is Memorial Day,” a traditionally silent observance in the Veteran’s mind that can best be described as an impossible trinity made up of an overwhelming sense of

Scott Neudecker 618.465.6303 guilt, grief, and grit. Usually, a moment of silence on this day is a welcomed and solemn way to honor the voices from our past, but for myself, after losing three former soldiers to suicide in the past few months, silence is no longer an option and the freedom to use our voice is the greatest gift that our veterans have to offer this Memorial Day.

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To view resources for service members, veterans, and their families, please visit learn. wreathsacrossamerica.org/ veteranresources.

Joseph Reagan is the Director of Military and Veterans Outreach for Wreaths Across America. He has almost 20 years experience working with leaders within Government, non-profit, and Fortune 500

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How to save money in college By Kristina Ellis

College can be a lot of things—fun, exciting, challenging, exhausting, rewarding—but “cheap” doesn’t usually make the list. And if you’re in college right now, or you will be soon, I want you to be able to save as much money as humanly possible so you can cash flow your degree and graduate with a future that does not include making student loan payments (yes, that really is possible).

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to work a full-time job or eat ramen noodles 24/7 in order to

18 | JUNE 2022

graduate debt-free. There are plenty of simple, practical ways you can save big on college expenses.

Live at home if you can Okay, y’all. I get it. You’re probably ready to get out of the house and bask in your new freedom, and living at home might be the last thing you want to do. And obviously, living at home won’t be an option for everyone. But just think about not having to pay thousands of dollars per year on rent, utility bills or food. All that extra money in your bank account will be totally worth it.

Compare the costs of living on versus off campus Renting an apartment isn’t always going to be cheaper than living on campus, and living on campus isn’t

always going to be cheaper than renting. You have to look at all the options available at your school and in the surrounding area to see what’s most affordable.

month.

Find a roommate If you rent an apartment, having a roommate (or two or three) will cut your expenses way down. Make sure your landlord has approved each individual roommate, and that they all sign the lease so you won’t be left hanging financially if one of them moves out.

Be smart about your meal plan Meal plan costs can vary depending on your school–– cheaper ones can be about $1,000 per semester, but some can be three times that (or more). Some colleges might make you get a meal plan for your freshman year, so if you have to have one, make sure you actually use it. But if you don’t have to have one, meal prepping and making food from scratch are your new best friends.

Be strategic about eating out It’s okay to go out with your friends every once in a while, but when you’re constantly getting waffles at 2 a.m. on impulse, it really starts to add up. Budget the amount of money you can spend on eating out every

Buy used books It’s crazy how much you can save just by getting your textbooks from Amazon or a used bookstore instead of the campus bookstore. You probably won’t find all your required reading at those cheaper places, but even

if you do have to use the campus bookstore, they’ll usually give you the option to rent instead of buy. Go with renting.

Take classes at a community college first You can save a lot on tuition by getting all your general education requirements out of the way at a community college before heading to your school of choice, because the price difference is insane. A year of tuition at a private is school is, on average, more than nine times the cost of a year of tuition at a community college.

Go to an in-state school The average tuition at a public, in-state school is $9,349 per year, and the average tuition at a public, out-of-state school is $27,023 per year.1 That’s a yearly difference of more than $17,000! If it’s an out-of-state

private college, the tuition skyrockets even more.

Apply for scholarships It’s kind of a no-brainer: If you find scholarships, you won’t have to worry as much about tuition costs (and some scholarships even cover your books, food and housing). Back when I was headed to college, my family wasn’t able to help me with funds, so I treated applying for scholarships like a parttime job—and it seriously paid off. I know it’s a lot of hard work, but I promise it After winning $500K in scholarships and graduating from her dream school with a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, Kristina Ellis set out to help students create their own plan to earn a debt-free education. She’s the bestselling author of Confessions of a Scholarship Winner and How to Graduate Debt-Free.

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SENIOR LIVING SENIOR NEWS

Planning also can include surrounding ourselves with a network of people and services for support.

missing items. We baked and left cookies on the porches of those we knew would appreciate them.

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My first thought was ... that’s what we’ve been doing for the past two years, and we certainly didn’t have time to plan for it before COVID sent us all into lockdown. Yet here we are ... we survived.

We learned Zoom and other online video conference programs so we could have face-to-face meeting with family and friends.

Prepare to Age in Place?

Been There, Done That I read an article the other day encouraging seniors to make plans to age in place. Aging in place means to stay in our own homes as we get older so we can maintain our independence.

Planning for it means making whatever changes are necessary to ensure that our homes are safe.

And how did we do that?

We created our own little support networks, mostly by phone since our meetings were canceled. We checked in with each other when the store finally stocked long-

We beefed up our computer skills, at least enough to enable us to place to-go grocery orders at the store or arrange for delivery and to make purchases that Amazon could bring to our door. We roamed YouTube in search of exercise videos for seniors and took free

classes of all types.

We took up the scatter rugs that could cause trips and falls because we knew that the EMTs who came to our rescue would be leery of COVID and come through the door fully outfitted in biohazard suits.

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Walking Difficult After Visit to Bowling Alley DEAR DR. ROACH: My partner and I are in our 60s, exercise regularly (three to five times per week), eat a well-balanced diet and are of average weight. Recently, we went bowling for two games and found ourselves sore in the area right below our buttocks. We were very sore for several days, making walking difficult, especially

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up and down stairs. What would have caused this area to get so sore? We named it “bowling butt” for lack of a medical term. -- M.B. ANSWER: Starting a new activity will often cause people to overuse some muscles that aren’t used to the strain. Bowling involves forceful extension of the thigh, which is the gluteus maximus muscle, as well as other muscles in the hip to maintain stability.

Two games were enough to exhaust that muscle, and the untrained muscle will often suffer small tears, which take days to heal properly. The fact that you were sore with activities involving thigh extension helps confirm the diagnosis. Some people think it’s lactic acid in the muscle, but that is gone after a few hours.

Naming a disease is serious business, and I did a look for similar names in the literature. I did find “Wii butt,” a pain sensation after playing games, including bowling, on the Wii video game system, but none for actual bowling. I’m not sure “bowling butt” will catch on, however. 3 Email Dr. Roach your health questions to toyourgoodhealth @med.cornell.edu.

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AMH scholarship winners have moms to thank The two winners of Alton Memorial Hospital’s first two Health Equity Scholarships will consider those honors a very special Mother’s Day gift this year.

Taryn Wallace, a senior at Alton High School, and Samara Helton, a senior at Edwardsville High School, were both raised by single mothers who have been steady influences in their lives.

Samara’s mother, Nova, had Samara when she was 18 years old, and Samara said that her mom sacrificed a lot of her personal goals for her children.

“She worked so hard to make sure we had everything we would need,” Samara said. “When her classmates were packing up to move to college, my mother was changing my diapers. I work very hard to make sure that she knows that my hard work is not only for me but for her as well to show how far her sacrifice has come. In a way, her having me so young has become my biggest drive to become the most successful person I can be to show her what she could have been.”

Samara has five siblings ranging in age from 16 to 4 – Nicholas, Joslyn, Hayleigh, Ronin and Lucy -- and another one on the way in June.

“My siblings are also a big part of my drive to make sure I can be the best role model for them as possible,” Samara said.

Taryn’s mother is Amanda Wallace, a nurse on Alton Memorial Hospital’s Intermediate Care Unit.

“My mom has been raising me on her own, with some help from family on occasion, since I was born,” Taryn said. “She went back to school and got her nursing degree when I was 8 years old to not only better our lives, but also to help people. My mom is the

AMH Scholarship winner Samara Helton, right, and mom Nova epitome of a hard-working and amazing individual. I will forever look up to her and her strong qualities.

“Growing up, I’ve always had great role models in the medical field (Taryn’s cousin is Megan Flowers, manager of the AMH Inpatient Pharmacy, and she also has an aunt in the medical field).

Combining that with my love for chemistry, I’ve become determined to be a pharmacist.”

Taryn, who will graduate from AHS later this month, is enrolled at Lewis and Clark Community College to complete her pre-pharmacy courses and then will transfer to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy to pursue her Pharm D degree.

Samara attended Civic Memorial High School in Bethalto her first three years of high school and will graduate from EHS later this month. She will be attending the University of Tampa this fall to study Biology on a Pre-Med track.

“I plan on pursuing a career in the dermatology field,” she said. “Dermatology visits are not always covered by insurance and doctor visits can be quite costly.

It will be my responsibility to have payment plans available for people of all incomes to get the treatments they need and

AMH Scholarship winner Taryn Wallace, left, and mom Amanda

deserve.”

Samara’s interest in dermatology also came from watching “Dr. Pimple Popper” on YouTube and later on the Lifetime channel. Dr. Sandra Lee is the California dermatologist featured in the programs.

“I watched that YouTube channel growing up and it was my favorite,” Samara said. “I’m someone who loves to put smiles on people’s faces, and if I can make that happen by being

their dermatologist, then I’m going to make that happen.

People often struggle with their image due to acne or some physical imperfection.

Being a dermatologist would mean helping to remove insecurities.”

Alton Memorial’s first two Health Equity Scholarship winners have succeeded during unprecedented times, completing the last two-plus years of high school during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“My high school years have

definitely not been a cake walk,” Taryn said. “I was moved to online school starting the second semester of my sophomore year, and I remained that way all of my junior year. Remote learning was one of the worst experiences. Teachers hated it, students hated it, and it was overall mentally taxing.

I’m glad my senior year has been as close to normal as it can get. It’s still been very difficult for me to keep my grades up along with my spirits during the pandemic, but I’ve done it. I’m glad that I pushed through and am graduating with honors, and many other personal achievements. I’m also very grateful for the scholarship I have received and am so excited to see what the future holds for me.”

Madison County high school seniors or recent high school graduates who are part of historically marginalized populations could apply to Alton Memorial for scholarships of up to $5,000 this spring.

The scholarships could be

renewable for up to three years beyond the initial term (up to four years total) and could include employment while in school.

“As we continue our journey to improve health equality, it’s an honor to offer these scholarships to some of the brightest local youth to ensure they are able to pursue health care careers without a large financial burden,” said Brad Goacher, chief operating officer for Alton Memorial Hospital. “The funding for these scholarships is being made available from generous donations to the hospital from members of our community intended to support training and education.”

Recipients will be asked to consider employment at Alton Memorial Hospital during and upon completion of their degree or certification. Annual renewal will be based on documentation of progress toward completion of program and a minimum 2.5 grade point average. 3

ALTON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL WELCOMES

Elsayed Abo-Salem, MD Interventional Cardiologist Dr. Elsayed Abo-Salem is board certified in Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology and Echocardiology, and has special interest in congestive heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, preventive cardiology and telemedicine.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Call 618.462.6612 for more information on Elsayed Abo-Salem, MD

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Jason Kendall earns AMH May Employee Honor Jason Kendall is Alton Memorial Hospital’s May Employee of the Month. He received his award May 12 from Ronnie Greenwood, Plant Operations manager, and Dave Braasch, AMH President. An anonymous nomination for Jason said that “while I was getting some breakfast (in the AMH café), I noticed Jason standing by the register.

Then I noticed an extremely elderly man, very frail and wobbly, approaching with his breakfast tray. Jason swiped his badge to pay for

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this man’s breakfast. Jason said, ‘I got you.’ The man had hearing aids and did not hear what Jason had said to him. Jason did not stay around for any thanks or any accolades, he just went on his way. It literally made me cry to watch this all unfold in front of me. Jason was just giving from his heart, to a stranger, and wanted nothing in return. This truly represents our BJC Values of Compassion, Respect and Excellence. There is still goodness in this world.” 3

2 Memorial Drive Alton, IL 62002

Schedule today: 618.462.6612 © 2022. Alton Memorial Hospital. All Rights Reserved.

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FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Your guide to local banking, credit unions & investments

CNB Bank & Trust

Through various civic sponsorships, scholarship opportunities, and a sincere commitment to customer service, CNB Bank & Trust has helped open many doors since 1854. Many things have changed over the years, but one constant characteristic remains– CNB makes it a top priority to

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give back. We have a vested interest in the success of local individuals, nonprofit organizations, area schools and businesses in the communities we serve; we take pride in the places we call home. Community banks obtain most of their core deposits locally and make many of their

loans to local businesses.

For this reason, they are often considered to be “relationship” bankers as opposed to “transactional” bankers. This means community banks have specialized knowledge of their community and their customers.

With this knowledge, along with feedback from our customers, we can provide cutting-edge technology products, such as online account opening, ClickSWITCH™, Card Manager, Mobile Check Deposit, and online & Mobile Banking that make your day-to-day banking activities

easier. CNB understands that not everyone is made the same- and your banking needs aren’t either! We have a broad range of products and services that are designed to meet your individual financial style.

Through a blend of our products, services, and philanthropy, there is a

perfect mixture of innovation and customer service at CNB Bank & Trust. Whether you are opening a door to a new car, a new home, or just opening a new checking account, CNB is here to help– and will be for generations to come.

JUNE 2022 | 23

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I hope you never have a car accident. But if you do, it’s good to know you’ll be happy with your claim Gary Bost Vexperience.

I L L A GInEfact, O Allstate F B Eguarantees T H A L Tyour O claim will ByBethalto Mayor be fast, fair and hassle-free. Or your money back. No Village of Bethalto page sponsored by Allstate - John Standefer and Tom Lane Ins and Fin Svcs, Inc questions asked. It’s another way Allstate is changing car insurance for good.

Bethalto news you can use

School is out this week, and summer is just around the corner! Our Splash Landing splash park opens

activities and special reading events hosted by the Bethalto Library. There’s always something fun to do!

a fishing pond. Central Park is also home to tennis courts, our Splash Pad, our gazebo, walking path, picnic pavilion and bandstand.

Playground equipment outside our Splash Landing is being upgraded as this is written. The Arboretum has a walking path shaded with a variety of trees, shrubbery, and benches. Come on out and enjoy the green space Bethalto has to offer!

Wondering what the status is on our Central Park pickleball courts?

We’re on the waiting list for equipment installation — like everything else it seems, there have been some delays.

But we anticipate the courts to be ready for use very soon! Watch our Facebook page for updates. Bethalto has several other parks ready for your enjoyment — Bryant (Culp Lane) Park has a playground, walking path, pavilions, grills, and

With summer comes the end of the school year, and we’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate our CMHS Class of 2022.

A special shout-out goes to the recipients of this year’s William to Stephenson Subject terms, conditions and availability. Premium credit based on Memorial Scholarships: vehicle involved. Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co. © 2013 Allstate Madison McNealy Insurance Co.and Tyler Winegardner. These two graduating seniors each received $500 awards, presented in memory of Former Mayor Bill Stephenson. We’re proud

is always home!

3015Bethalto Godfrey Rd. If your “littles” are looking As a reminder, all Village Godfrey for ways to keep busy this Board meetings are open to summer, check out the the public; regular meetings johnstandefer@allstate.com Boys & Girls Club summer

are the second Monday of the month beginning at 7pm and are held in our Council Chambers inside Village Hall. We encourage residents to attend and to stay informed of all the happenings in town.

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We’re looking forward to a summer full of fun in Bethalto! Bethalto Spirit is getting ready for a summer filled with family events.

Follow their Facebook page for information on free concerts — Music in the Park is set for Thursdays starting May 19 — and their weekly farmers markets will be held on Sunday mornings starting June 5. We are very proud of our Spirit Group and the volunteers who spend countless hours beautifying our newly-accredited Level 2 Arboretum Park and helping to make it one of the premier walking paths in the area. We appreciate all that this group does to help make Bethalto a great place to live!

John Standefer of all of you, and always remember — no matter 618-466-4403 where your travels take you,

for the summer on May 28 and will be open daily from 10am-5pm through August 7. The park will be open weekends only from August 7-28, with the last day of the season being August 28. There is no fee for admission. The park can also be reserved for parties through our online reservation system. For more information, visit our website Bethalto.com.

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Tom Lane Ins and Fin Svcs Inc Tom Lane, Agent 116 West Bethalto Blvd Bethalto, IL 62010 Bus: 618-377-8912 STRESS 101 Fax: 618-377-8914 Understanding stress is an

Healthy habits to help reduce stress

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Family Features Between work, family obligations and a constantly changing world, people in the United States are stressed. In fact, U.S. workers are among the most stressed in the world, according to a State of the Global Workplace study. While some stress is unavoidable and can be good for you, constant or chronic stress can have real consequences for your mental and physical health.

Chronic stress can increase your lifetime risk of heart disease and stroke. It can also lead to unhealthy habits like overeating, physical inactivity and smoking while also increasing risk factors, including high blood pressure, depression and anxiety. However, a scientific statement from the American Heart Association shows reducing stress and cultivating a positive mindset can improve health and well-being.

To help people understand the connection between stress and physical health, the American Heart Association offers these science-backed insights to help reduce chronic stress.

24 | JUNE 2022

important step in managing and reducing it. Consider these things to know about stress and how it could affect your life: * Today, 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. report being worried or depressed. * Higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol are linked to increased risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular events like heart disease and stroke. * The top sources of stress are money, work, family responsibilities and health concerns.

Stay Active Exercise is one of the easiest ways to keep your body healthy and release stress.

Physical activity is linked to lower risk of diseases, stronger bones and muscles, improved mental health and cognitive function and lower risk of depression. It can also help increase energy and improve quality of sleep. The American Heart Association recommends adults get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity,

75 minutes of vigorous activity or a combination.

Meditate Incorporate meditation and mindfulness practices into your day to give yourself a few minutes to create some distance from daily stress. Some studies show meditation can reduce blood pressure, improve sleep, support the immune system and increase your ability to process information.

Practice Positivity A positive mindset can

improve overall health.

Studies show a positive mindset can help you live longer, and happy individuals tend to sleep better, exercise more, eat better and not smoke.

Practice positive self-talk to help you stay calm. Instead of saying, “everything is going wrong,” re-frame the situation and remind yourself “I can handle this if I take it one step at a time.”

Show Gratitude Gratitude - or thankfulness -

* Work-related stress is associated is a powerful tool with a 40% increased risk of that can reduce cardiovascular disease like heart levels of depression attack and stroke. and anxiety and improve sleep. Start by simply writing down animals, you may feel a three things you’re grateful sense of goodwill, joy, for each day. nurturing and happiness.

At the same time, stress Find a Furry Friend hormones are suppressed.

Having a pet may help you Dog ownership is also get more fit; lower stress, associated with a lower risk blood pressure, cholesterol of depression, according and blood sugar; and boost to research published overall happiness and wellby the American Heart being. When you see, touch, Association. 3 hear or talk to companion heart.org/stress

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RiverBend

john KELLER

G R O W T H A S S O C I AT I O N

FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK

Serving Business, Encouraging Growth in Southwestern Illinois

More information about the RiverBend Growth Association and all these events can be found at growthassociation.com Reservations are requested for all of our events so that we have adequate accommodations for our members. Call us at 618-467-2280.

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

Bickle Electric Contracting Co.

Bickle Electric Contracting Co. 618-259-4499 4795 Section Line Road, Edwardsville bickleelectric.com @bickleelectric In the last five years, Bickle Electric had grown to the point of relocating so that they could accommodate the level of work they were taking on. This also led to more job openings and the creation of much-needed added office space.

Bickle Electric Contracting Co., Inc. has been chosen as the May 2022 RiverBend Growth Association Small Business of the Month award recipient.

Located in Edwardsville, the family-owned electrical contracting firm is owned

by Rob and Erin Bickle.

Open since 2012, it has been operating for the past 10 years, providing both commercial and residential services.

As a union shop, staffing ebbs and flows with demand, and their latest accommodations work well with that flow. Currently with a team of 12 but often employing as many as 18, employees continually learn and develop through training. This allows them to grow and perform expertly within their area of work.

Rob Bickle is a licensed, IBEW journeyman wireman.

He has been working as an electrician for close to 30 years. His wife, Erin, is known to many as the director of Refuge, a Wood River-based non-profit serving children and families throughout Madison County.

Residential services range from installing entire electrical systems to running power to a homeowner’s new pool, hot tub, or workshop.

They also provide electrical service upgrades, and the installation of smoke detectors, outlets including GFCIs, ceiling fans, home generators, and still more.

From left, William Kelly, owner Rob Bickle, Greg Kamp, Ginger Pierce, and owner Erin Bickle. Not available for the photo are Tommy Sillivan and Andie Allison.

Commercial services include the renovation and upgrading of existing electrical systems or the installation of a new system.

They also provide office and

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the highest priority on the quality of our work and the satisfaction of our clients.”

retail uplifts and additions; power distribution, voice, and data systems; standby generators and equipment installations; fire alarm systems; ballast lamp replacements; and much more.

Bickle Electric provides up-front pricing to any of its customers before a project begins. Technicians are also available around the clock if the need arises. “Bickle Electric provides quality work at a fair price,” noted Erin Bickle. “We place

“From new installations to troubleshooting tough electrical issues, we have the skill and ability to meet all a customer’s needs,” Erin said.

“We provide a wide range of electrical services, from the small and easy to the large and complex.”

“We pride ourselves on the integrity of our service and its costs. Our tagline is ‘wired to serve’ and we truly serve our customers. We

love what we do; no job is too small,” she added.

During its past 10 years, Bickle Electric has managed to continue operating and growing despite the challenges it has faced. One of these challenges has been to find, grow, and maintain a workforce that can meet the demands of the workload.

“Deciding strategically how to grow while maintaining the integrity of our work was a challenge,” said Erin. “And accepting that not all work is ‘good’ work.”

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“Knowing when to move forward is something we worked through in our early years,” Erin added. “Overall, every challenge or setback made us stronger. The greatest opportunities in running our business have come through the people we have met. Serving in this community has truly been the best.”

The Bickles also developed a solid commitment to community service. Both have actively served as directors on several nonprofit boards over the years. Their company sponsors several non-profit organizations as well. Local non-profits benefitting from their commitment to the health of the community have included Refuge, Riverbend Family Ministries, YWCA, and still others.

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The RBGA’s Small Business of the Month Committee recognizes a different member business each month for its outstanding efforts and leadership in the community. Committee members include Brenda Eardley, Adrianna Lock, Kristen Ryrie, Leslie Schobernd, Martha Schultz, Amy Smith, and Kathy Weaver. To learn more about membership in the RiverBend Growth Association and the Small Business of the Month recognition, visit the RBGA website or call their Godfrey office.

Do you know a small business worthy of this honor? Nominate them here: growthassociation.com/recognition-awards

MARK YOUR CALENDARS June 8 Member Mingle at Jacoby Arts Center sponsored by First Mid Bank & Trust

Welcome to our newest members: Camp Electric and Engineering Inc.

3113 Washington Avenue, Alton | campelectricinc.com | 618-462-9287

Theodora Farms

4835 N. Alby Road, Godfrey | theodorafarms.com | 618-208-7738

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618-258-3168 www.1stMidAmerica.org JUNE 2022 | 25

LOCAL EXPERTS INSURANCE

P E R S O N A L L AW

When should I buy Life Insurance?

How should I store important files?

This is a very good question. Many people realize the need for life insurance but for many it is too late. Here are the three most common incorrect assumptions I see:

There are a multitude of ways to effectively store important documents.

It’s a good idea to use a fireproof safe or password-protected electronic file for documents such as bank and investment statements, tax documents, estateplanning documents, pay stubs, and pension information.

1) I’ll always be able to buy life insurance.

This is not necessarily true. Health conditions could arise that may render a person uninsurable or make a policy costprohibitive.

Tom Lane

2) My family and I are covered by the life insurance I have through work. To best meet the future financial needs of your family it is suggested to have coverage for 7-10 times your annual income. Very few work insurance policies meet this need.

3) Life insurance is only for those who are raising a family. Life insurance may be needed at ALL stages of life. Whether married, single, male, female, with children or without, you may still have financial obligations that need to be met.

Sell the cars, keep your dignity

Todd Sivia

You may also want to invest in a safe deposit box for papers that can’t be easily replaced.

These include original birth and death certificates, Social Security cards, marriage and divorce decrees, passports, and life insurance documents. As an extra layer of security, you can scan your documents onto your computer (make sure they are clear copies). You should also back them up to a cloud service like Google Drive or Dropbox. To protect your data, make sure the storage provider uses encryption technology. You can also store copies of your files in folders on a password-protected external hard drive. Visit our website to learn more!

There is an old saying that states “the best kind of life insurance policy is the one that is in force on the day it is needed.” The best plan is to meet with your agent and evaluate your situation. Waiting too long could be financially devastating to those you love and care about.

TODD SIVIA, Attorney at Law 116 W. Bethalto Blvd, Bethalto 618-377-8912 tomlaneagency.net

217 S. Main St., 1 Terminal Drive, Edwardsville East Alton 618-659-4499 618-258-4800 sivialaw.com

AUDIOLOGY

BANKRUPTCY

I have tinnitus. How can hearing aids help?

Can a bankruptcy stop a garnishment?

Tinnitus — that annoying ringing, buzzing, or humming in the ears, which no one else may hear — can go hand in hand with hearing loss. It’s more common than people realize, affecting Dr. T.K. over 50 million in the U.S. alone, but some Parthasarathy hearing aids can help.

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• Static noise tinnitus therapy, which distracts from bothersome tinnitus sounds, using more soothing, customizable sounds • Ocean wave tinnitus therapy signals, which simulate sounds of the sea and beach-side relaxation for lessstressful listening • Notch therapy, a built-in mechanism that moves tinnitus sounds to the background without introducing other sounds Both tinnitus and hearing loss can be successfully managed, helping you live an empowered life. Get started today by calling Better Hearing Clinic at 618-208-6002 for a free consultation!

You go to work every day, you work hard for your paycheck and it still doesn’t go as far as you need it to.

Gas prices are rising, groceries prices are rising, the cost of living for everyone is more expensive than it used to be. In this economy, every penny counts.

Shari Murphy

Then your employer notifies you that they have received a wage garnishment order and will begin garnishing your already-stretched-too-thin paycheck.

Can bankruptcy stop the garnishment?

Bankruptcy is a legal proceeding designed to give you a fresh financial start by allowing you a “discharge” of most unsecured debts, including credit card debt, medical bills, and past due utility bills. Once bankruptcy is filed, all collection efforts by creditors, including garnishments, must stop.

Your paycheck will be restored and, without the burden of other, now-discharged debts, will go even farther than it did before the garnishment.

SHARI L. MURPHY

PAW’S CORNER

By Sam Mazzotta Veterinarian Wait Times Keep Getting Longer DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I’ve been waiting more than three months to get my dog “Maisie” in for a regular checkup and shots.

The veterinarian’s office says they are running behind and had to delay her appointment. Talking to a friend across the country

26 | JUNE 2022

this week, I learned that they are waiting months to get their pets to the vet as well.

Is this a national trend? -Cheryl K. DEAR CHERYL: Unfortunately, it is, especially in major metropolitan areas. The wait for a vet appointment was already lengthening before 2020. After months of waiting, pet owners are all trying to get caught up on checkups and vaccinations.

Many more people adopted pets during the lockdown in 2020 to keep them company.

DEAR DAVE: My wife and I are in our late twenties, and we have two kids. Our combined income is about $110,000 a year, but we have $70,000 in loans on two cars, plus about $15,000 in credit card debt. My in-laws have offered to let us move in with them to save money and make things easier while we pay down debt. Do you think this is a good idea? -- Adam DEAR ADAM: In my mind there are only two scenarios where you should even consider taking the in-laws up on their offer. One, is where they’re absolutely wonderful folks and you both have great, healthy relationships with them.

By this, I mean there’s a mutual sense of love, respect and everyone knows their boundaries. Even if this is the case, I’d still only consider it for an agreedupon and very small amount of time.

The second scenario is if taking them up on their offer is the only way you two can accomplish your financial goals. That’s not the case here.

You and your wife can get rid of most of your debt, and take a big step toward gaining control of your income, if you’ll do one thing—get rid of those stupid cars! That’s an insane amount of money wrapped up in cars for you two. If you had a couple of decent, paid-for used cars your lives would be so much different.

You’d be in a situation where you could even start putting a little money aside while you paid off the credit card debt. Then, once the credit card debt is gone, you’d have some cash freed up to find better cars.

If I were in your situation, I wouldn’t move in with the in-laws. I’m sure they’re great people, but I’d keep my dignity and sell the cars, start living on a budget and pay off debt as fast as possible!

Simple keys to small business success

Source: American Tinnitus Association. Understanding the Facts. ata.org/understanding-facts.

94 Northport Drive, Alton 618-208-6002 betterhearingclinic.com

@DaveRamsey

Attorney at Law • FREE CONSULTATION P.O. Box 136, Wood River 618-797-8888

And many pandemic restrictions, such as building occupancy limits, are still in place.

Add to this a chronic shortage of veterinarians -- an industry that sees some 2,000 vets leaving every year, citing a poor work-life balance. That’s twice the rate of physicians quitting their profession, says the American Veterinary Medical Association.

And the lower availability of vet appointments can be seasonal. For large animal vet practices (which deal

with livestock, horses, cattle, etc.), spring is their busiest season with calving and foaling taking place.

The warm weather reminds pet owners to take their companion pets to the vet as well.

Until the wave of catch-up appointments subsides, just be patient. Keep the appointment that is already set with the veterinarian and schedule Maisie’s checkup for next year, if possible. 3 Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.

DEAR DAVE: Do you have any advice on how to start a car wash and detailing business? What things should I consider first, and what do I keep in mind over the long run? -- Andrew DEAR ANDREW: Working for yourself is one of the toughest and most rewarding things anyone can do. It’ll take a lot of blood, sweat and tears to be successful, and you’ll experience some of the highest highs and lowest lows in the process.

But, if you don’t absolutely love cars and everything that goes into keeping them clean and looking great, I’d advise looking into another line of work. In other words, if you’re thinking about this kind of business just because it’s plausible or a way to make money, chances

are you’re not going to be happy or stick with it very long. In that case, it’s really more of a side job than a business.

Is this something you’d want to be doing every day five years from now? Think about possibly having a team to lead and work with, too, at some point. Then, lay out a smart business plan, and write up everything from your marketing strategies to the cost of start-up equipment and supplies, to what your projected revenues are, and the per unit charges for all your services and widgets.

You’ll always do a better job, and have more fun, when you’re part of something you love. And when it comes to running the business, stay away from debt, pay cash and don’t be afraid to grow slowly.

Teach them, don’t enable them DEAR DAVE: My younger brother and his wife did their taxes last month and learned they owe $15,000 to the IRS. I love them both, but they are extremely irresponsible with money. I know they have a lot of credit card debt, too. I am debt-free, including my home after following your plan, and would like to help them. I was thinking about taking out a one-time loan from the bank to help cover what they owe the IRS, because my emergency fund is a little low after a recent car accident. Under the circumstances, would this be okay? -- Carson DEAR CARSON: In my mind, “help” would be aiding them in changing their ways with money. I don’t say this to be sarcastic or mean, but it’s the truth about where they are in life right now. They both need to be educated, not enabled, when it comes to their behavior with money. This doesn’t mean they’re bad people, but it does mean you don’t need to be a party to, or a temporary fix for, their bad financial decisions.

Some people might say taking this attitude would mean you don’t love and care about your brother and his wife. Those people would be wrong. You’ve already told me they won’t behave with money, so at this point it would kind of be like giving a drunk a drink. You don’t give more money to people who won’t behave with it.

That solves nothing, and in most cases it just reinforces the negative behavior.

This might be a good opportunity to sit down with your brother and his wife, and have a talk about their situation. And make sure they get in touch with the IRS about a payment plan. 3 Dave Ramsey is a seventime #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, which airs 1-3pm weekdays on WBGZ 107.1FM / 1570AM.

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MOMENTS IN TIME • On May 30, 1593, playwright Christopher Marlowe, 29, is killed in a brawl. He was nearly denied his master’s degree in 1587, until advisers to Queen Elizabeth intervened, referring to his services for the state. Historians later documented Marlowe’s activities as a spy for the queen.

• On June 2, 1865, Confederate Gen. Edmund Kirby Smith, commander of Confederate forces west of the Mississippi, signs surrender terms offered

by Union negotiators.

The event is regarded as marking the end of the Civil War. • On June 4, 1896, Henry Ford unveils the “Quadricycle.” The 500-pound vehicle had two driving speeds, no reverse, no brakes, rudimentary steering ability and a doorbell button as a horn. It could reach about 20 mph.

• On May 31, 1929, Ford Motor Company signs an agreement to produce cars in the Soviet Union. In return, the USSR agreed to buy 72,000 unassembled Ford cars and trucks and all spare parts required over the following nine years.

• On June 5, 1933, the United States goes off the gold standard, in which

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All gold coins, gold bullion and gold certificates were to be turned over to the Federal Reserve for the set price of $20.67 per ounce.

• On June 1, 1942, a Polish underground newspaper makes public the news of the gassing of tens of thousands of Jews at Chelmno, a Nazi-operated death camp, as told by a young Jew, Emanuel Ringelblum, who escaped after being forced to bury bodies at the camp.

• On June 3, 1956, in Santa Cruz, California, city authorities announced a total ban on rock and roll at public gatherings, calling the music “detrimental to both the health and morals of our youth and community.” Similar bans were enacted in Asbury Park, New Jersey, and in San Antonio, Texas, where the city council was fearful of “undesirable elements.”

• On June 6, 1683, the Ashmolean, the world’s first university museum, opens in Oxford, England.

Today, the collection at the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology ranges in time from the earliest implements of man, made about 500,000 years ago, to 20th century works of art.

• On June 10, 1692, in Salem Village in the Massachusetts Bay Colony,

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503 E. Vandalia (Rear) • Edwardsville 618-656-8447 • edwardsvilleauto.com Bridget Bishop, the first colonist to be tried in the Salem witch trials, is hanged after being found guilty of the practice of witchcraft. The witch trials, which resulted in the executions of 19 innocent women and men, ended in October.

• On June 9, 1893, the interior of Ford’s Theatre collapses when a basement pier gives way, killing 23 people. The building

-- where President Lincoln was assassinated -- housed hundreds of government clerks.

• On June 7, 1942, the Battle of Midway -- one of the most decisive U.S. victories in its war against Japan -- comes to an end.

The outnumbered U.S. Pacific Fleet destroyed four Japanese aircraft carriers with the loss of only one of its own, the Yorktown.

• On June 8, 1968, James

Earl Ray is arrested in London, England, and charged with the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. In 1969, Ray pleaded guilty to King’s murder.

Three days later, he attempted to withdraw his guilty plea, claiming he had been set up as a patsy in a larger conspiracy.

• On June 11, 1979, film actor John Wayne, born Marion Morrison, dies at

age 72. The “John Wayne” name was created when the director of “The Big Trail” didn’t think Marion was a good name for an actor playing a tough Western hero.

• On June 12, 1982, a large crowd descends upon New York City’s Central Park, demanding nuclear disarmament. Estimates placed the number of attendees at over a million. 3

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1. Barry White, in 1974. The songwriters had penned it as “You’re My First, You’re My Last, My In-Between.” White changed the title and lyrics and released it as disco.

2. The Doors, in 1971. It was the last song that singer Jim Morrison released before his death at age 27.

3. His Nigerian drummer friend answered a question with the phrase, “Ob-la-di, ob-la-da, life goes on, brah.” The Beatles released the song in 1968.

4. The Supremes, in 1965.

5. “This Magic Moment,” by the Drifters in 1960, followed by Jay and the Americans in 1968. Lead singer Jay was “Jay Black,” who had been born David Blatt but agreed to legally change his name after the originator of the group, John “Jay” Traynor, left. In 2006, John “Jay” Reincke appeared, the third Jay.

“At this time of year, we often hear families express concern about children losing academic skills during summer break,” said Sue-Ann Lively from KinderCare’s education team. “The pressure to add academic learning to summer can lead to increased anxiety, which isn’t helpful for parents or children. Children retain what they learned best when they’re engaged and interested in what they’re doing. As we head into summer, think about the skills your child learned during the school year and how you could incorporate those skills into activities your child enjoys doing.”

Consider these three tips to help your family incorporate learning classroom concepts in summer fun and nurture your children’s love of learning through real-life applications.

Build on classroom skills Practicing writing may not be at the top of your children’s summer activities lists. However, writing might be more appealing if it led to something fun, like a card or letter from a relative or friend. By encouraging your children to write to pen pals, like friends or family members, they will not only practice their literacy

skills by writing letters and reading replies, but also work on important executive function skills by learning to manage anticipation while waiting for a response. Even children who are too young to write can participate by drawing pictures and dictating the captions to family members.

Go outside A walk around the neighborhood can turn into an opportunity to build STEM skills by observing changes over time. As you and your children walk, ask questions, make predictions and discuss what you see.

This way, you’ll be forming hypotheses and analyzing your results, just like scientists.

Find learning opportunities in regular activities Cooking provides a variety of opportunities to work on math skills. For younger children, that could mean getting two carrots and one apple for a recipe. For children who are learning fractions and multiplication, that might mean figuring out how much of an ingredient to add, such as “If the recipe calls for 1/2 cup of flour and we’re doubling the recipe, how much flour do we need?”

Board games are another opportunity to build academic skills, like math and literacy; executive function skills, like waiting for their turn; and social skills, such as being a gracious winner.

Additionally, read with your children daily and help them find opportunities to practice reading skills, such as reading signs aloud at the park or reading books out loud to other family members. 3 kindercare.com

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• Until 1937, it was illegal for men to be topless in the U.S., even on beaches.

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• Gary Kremen, the founder of Match.com, one of the world’s largest and most popular online dating websites, lost his girlfriend to a guy she met on Match. com.

• The origin of the phrase “in the limelight” comes from the early days of theater, when spotlights were produced by directing a flame at calcium oxide, or quicklime.

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• Ichiro Suzuki, baseball’s all-time hits leader, learned Spanish solely for the purpose of trash-talking opponents.

• An “endling” is a term used for the last animal of an entire species. When an endling dies, the species is considered extinct. 3

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10 for $20 value at Gentelin’s on Broadway

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danaangle@bigz.media JUNE 2022 | 31

Realty BETHALTO NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

227 Oakley Place, East Alton $124,000 Scott Dodson 444-9990 3 BR, 2 BA home located in a very desirable East Alton location. Tremendous potential with a walkout basement, covered deck, covered front porch, hardwood floors & woodburning fireplace.

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1150 N. Moreland Rd., Moro $445,000 Steve Aud 618-789-2325 Situated on over 6 acres. Floor plan for separate in-law quarters or teenage set-up. 3 BR, 5 BA, enclosed porch, covered patio, pantry, office, inground salt-water pool with a “he/she” cave.

LOTS & ACRES

FOR LEASE

COMMERCIAL

COMMERCIAL

NEW LISTING

535 N. 6th St., Wood River $3500/month Steve Aud 618-789-2325 Recently remodeled inside and out. 2000 sq. ft. building sitting on premier corner lot.

Currently a car lot, but the interior redesign allows for it to be used for a variety of options. Owner pursuing other interests.

COMMERCIAL

COMMERCIAL

33325 Kane Rd, Medora $139,900 Becky McGowen 570-9375 2BR/2BA on large lot. Spacious living room, family room, kitchen/dining room combo, carport, and 2 car garage.

COMING SOON

NEW PRICE

3401 Whiteclif, Godfrey $278,500 Matt Horn 560-8201 Outstanding Godfrey location.

This 4 bedroom, 3 bath home located in desirable Whiteclif subdivision.

NEW LISTING

417 Prospect-K, Alton $109,900 Amy Hillery 520-9850 Beautiful, historic condo in Loretto Towers Condominiums in Christian Hill!

COMING SOON

923 Langdon, Alton $167,500 Matt Horn 560-8201 Very charming middletown Alton home. This 4BR/2BA home is located near Haskell Park.

NEW LISTING

1 Glenview, Belleville $135,000 Amy Hillery 520-9850 Adorable 3BR 2BA home in Signal Hill! Nice hardwood floors and fresh paint throughout.

FEATURED LISTING

348 Collins, Wood River $250,000 Matt Horn 560-8201 Great full brick 1 story home.

This very tastefully decorated home located across street from Belk Park Golf Course.

2BR CONDO

5310 Godfrey Rd, Godfrey $64,900 Don Hellrung 830-2405 Conveniently located 2 bedroom, 1 bath condo is an upper level unit.

NEW LISTING

600 Old St Louis Rd, Hartford $124,900 Becky McGowen 570-9375 This spacious 3BR brick ranch home is situated on large double lot. You will like the main floor laundry, fenced yard, and more.

FEATURED LISTING

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400 Saint John, Godfrey $133,900 Amy Hillery 520-9850 Make this home your own!

3BR home on a corner lot in an established Godfrey neighborhood!

NEW LISTING

1828 Vaughn Rd., Wood River $3800/mo State Route 111 & I-255, Wood River $903,000 300 Mechanical Drive, East Alton $237,750 Steve Aud 789-2325 Steve Aud 618-789-2325 Steve Aud 789-2325 Excellent location for your business. High 12 acres m/l prime commercial develop- Prime location on corner lot. Great opportraffic count, near Walmart and I-255. 2 ment land. Frontage-entry road already in tunity for a variety of business. 3 acres service entries. 2 HVAC units, 20+ parking place! Near Walmart and fast food restau- m/l with 250 ft. of frontage on State Route spaces. rants. Can be divided into smaller parcels.

111 and 740+ ft on Mechanical Drive.

Offered at $75,250/acre.

COMMERCIAL

NEW LISTING

442 Bluff, Alton $229,900 Cheri Horn 791-5933 Beautiful 4 bedroom Victorian 2.5 story home located in Historic Christian Hill.

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HUGE REDUCTION

1320 Washington, Alton $235,000 Matt Horn 560-8201 Outstanding Alton home. This 2 story, 3BR full brick home will be sure to impress. One of a kind woodwork throughout.

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717 Oak Ridge Dr., Bethalto $99,900 280 Bender Ave., East Alton $140,000 Yvonne Cook 741-4732 Kayla Lindley 444-7854 3BR ranch in Bethalto Hills subdivision.

Beautiful full brick, 3 bedroom, 1 ½ bath New flooring and fresh paint throughout. home in Rosewood Heights. This home is Brand new a/c and the roof is approxa must see. imately 4 years old. One car attached garage walks out to fenced backyard.

393 Phillipena St., Edwardsville $8,900 Yvonne Cook 741-4732 Lot for sale in Edwardsville residential neighborhood. Priced to sell.

846 Chouteau, Godfrey $149,900 Matt Horn 560-8201 Updated 2-3BR godfrey home.

This 2 story property in convenient location close to shopping, restraunts, etc.

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LOTS & ACRES

1700 Storey Lane, Alton $26,000 Steve Aud 789-2325 Three nice level building lots in Bethalto School District. 70 X 110 each. Lots can be sold seperately for $9,500 each or as a package for $26,000.

2904 Utah Pl., Alton $139,000 Scott Dodson 444-9990 2 or 3 bedroom ranch, single car attached garage and walk out basement. Kitchen has been updated. 2 full baths. Very nice home. Don’t miss it.

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godfreylandmark.com NEW LISTING

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NEW LISTING

3049 Godfrey Rd Godfrey 618-466-1513

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Realty GODFREY

bethaltolandmark.com NEW LISTING

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4328 Hedge Rd., Roxana $329,000 Steve Aud 618-789-2325 4 or 5 BR, 3 BA, multi-level. Huge family room, formal dining, breakfast area.

Kitchenette & BR down. Rec room down, loft, inground pool & more, situated on over an acre. Roxana schools.

58 Airport Plaza Bethalto 618-377-2112

Rt. 143 & St. Louis & Alton Rd., Wood River 561 Bethalto Blvd., Bethalto $129,900 5400 W. Main St., Belleville $275,000 $203,577 Steve Aud 618-789-2325 Steve Aud 789-2325 Steve Aud 789-2325 Over 8 acres available commercial/light Great opportunity to own a commercial lot Great commercial/business opportunity. industrial potential. Great location for stor- on Route 140 in Bethalto. One of very few Aprox. 8700 sq. ft. w/attached residential age units, warehouse, retail, etc. There is vacant lots fronting Route 140. Utilities are 4 broom/2.5 bath. additional parcel already a huge vinyl Quonset building on available at the property. parking lot. site and a fenced area for storage.

BUYING OR SELLING: CALL LANDMARK REALTY – BETHALTO FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS. 618-377-2112

Scott Dodson Designated Managing Broker 618-444-9990

Tina Davis 618-401-0909

503 Anna, Wood River $99,900 Jenny Wisniewski 791-8224 Welcome home! This 2BR home has been completely remodeled and ready for new owners.

5501 Ladue, Godfrey $114,900 3720 Berkeley, Alton $95,500 Jenny Wisniewski 791-8224 Matt Horn 560-8201 Spacious 3BR brick ranch in desirable Great Milton area location. Close to the neighborhood, offers over 1,600sq ft of dental school. This 3 bedroom, 1 bath living space. Basement, fenced yard, home is move in ready. attached garage.

FEATURED LISTING

FEATURED LISTING

3543 Oscar, Alton $58,900 112 W 4th, Hartford $80,000 Pat Kulish 623-9209 Cheri Horn 791-5933 Great house, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath with 2BR home has a bonus room, kitchen, full basement and covered front porch dining, family room, main floor laundry. in an established area. Also has a 12 x Some hardwood floors, full basement, 20 workshop. garage.

COMMERCIAL

Steve Aud 618-789-2325

Yvonne Cook 618-741-4732

Charlie Bertels 618-530-3033

210 Depot, Jerseyville $200,000 Ashley Smith 567-7135 Unlimited potential for any business looking to open its doors in a rural community. Includes a 2BR house as an additional income opportunity.

COMMERCIAL

FEATURED LISTING

526 Grace, Godfrey $120,000 Pat Kulish 623-9209 1.5 story, 4BR/2BA brick home, also includes an apartment over the large detached garage.

COMMERCIAL

5206 Godfrey Rd, Godfrey $295,000 2808 E Broadway, Alton $230,000 Becky McGowen 570-9375 Ashley Smith 567-7135 All brick building currently includes 3-5 Commercial investment property on office spaces, kitchen, bathroom, base- Broadway. Currently a hair salon/dance ment. Large corner lot is great location/ studio. Includes 3BR residence. high visibility.

FEATURED LISTING

Cindy Holmes 618-444-8037

32 | JUNE 2022

Kayla Lindley 618-444-7854

Laura Dugas 618-556-9200

15281 State Hwy 109, Dow $695,000 Mindy Woelfel 946-0434 Over 10,000 square feet under roof is currently set up to be a bar, banquet center, restaurant, and has a large horse shoe/bag tournament room. The opportunities are endless. All on 6 acres +/-.

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