Riverbend January 2023

OBITUARIES

Tabitha Jennings

37 | Alton

November 4 2022

John Louis McDaniels

89 | Alton

November 17, 2022

arrangements by Gent Funeral Home

Tabitha Jane Jennings, 37, will be forever missed, and never forgotten, as she lay to rest on November 04, 2022. Born courageous with a free spirit in Wood River, Illinois, to Nancy and Alfred “Jake” Jennings, she was a proud mother with unconditional love to her surviving son

Damion Hallows. Tabby Jane was the adventurous sister of Cassie “Dustin” Brown, Eric Bull, and Stephanie Bull, the beautiful one of a kind aunt to her nieces and nephews, and the unforgettable and forever loved friend to so many.

Xoxo Forever and Always!

BIRTHS

Mary Evelyn Zipprich

October 14, 2022, 11:31pm

5 pounds, 13 ounces, 19 inches

Anderson Hospital, Maryville

Daughter of Eric and Katy Zipprich.

Grandparents are Hank and Terri Hart of Godfrey, Liz Prather of Wood River, and Shawn Zipprich. Great-grandparents are Rick and Judy Shepard of Alton, Harlan

Zipprich of Wanda, Harold and Myrna

Hart of Godfrey, and Judy Wreath. Proud big brother George, 5.

Eli Robert Zakrzewski

November 16, 2022, 11:18am

6 pounds, 8 ounces, 20.5 inches

Alton Memorial Hospital

Son of Joseph and Kimberly Zakrzewski of Bethalto. Grandparents are Dee Zakrzewski of Bethalto, Karen and David Campbell, both of Wood River. Greatgrandmother is Marie Zakrzewski of Moro. Siblings are Alaina and Maya.

Ethan Ryan Tolleson

November 15, 2022, 8:16pm

6 pounds, 8 ounces, 19 inches

Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis Mo.

Son of Ryan and Jane Tolleson of Bethalto, and younger brother of Emmett. Grandparents are Vince and Kathy Ruppert of Bethalto, and Richard and Susan Tolleson of Bethalto.

CLAUD R. SNOWDEN, O.D.

242 East Ferguson Ave., P.O. Box 499 Wood River, IL 62095

A er 48+ years of prtactice I am retiring and closing the o ce. We are very thankful for all our loyal patients over the years.

If you need your records sent to a new Optometrist, call the number below and leave a message with your contact information.

618-254-8463

Marks Mortuary

“Our family loving and caring for your family in the time of need has always been our motto.”

Funeral Directors

Since 1901

Celebrating 120 Years

633 E. Lorena Avenue, Wood River 618-254-5544

John Louis McDaniels, 89, died at 8:17 p.m. Thursday, November 17, 2022 at Alton Memorial Hospital.

He was born October 3, 1933, in Alton, IL, the son of John C. and Carrie E. (Kortkamp) McDaniels. He married the first love of his life, Betty Verble, June 20, 1964. She passed away March 6, 2011.

Jacqueline Wiseman became a close and dear friend after his wife’s death. She survives.

A 1951 graduate of Alton High School, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy and a Master’s degree in Mathematics Education from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. He was a member of the honor societies, Tau Beta Pi (Engineering), Sigma Pi Sigma (Physics), and Kappa Delta Pi (Education). He was a Registered Professional Engineer in Illinois and Missouri, and a licensed Commercial Pilot. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving from 1954 to 1956 at Ladd AFB in Fairbanks, Alaska.

A research and development engineer at McDonnell Douglas for fourteen years, he specialized in research on outer space projects using cryogenics and vacuum technology. He then taught mathematics for 21 years at Lewis and Clark Community College and coordinated the Engineering Transfer Program and the Water and Wastewater Technology Programs.

He was a 35-year member of the Kiwanis Club of Alton-Godfrey and served as secretary for many years. He was a Distinguished President and Distinguished Secretary of his Kiwanis club. He was a 56-year member of 12th Street Presbyterian Church in Alton

and served as a Deacon, Trustee, and Elder. Upon the church’s closing, John became a member of the Evangelical United Church of Christ in Godfrey. He was a director on the Alton Museum of History and Art Board. John volunteered his time after retirement to his churches, Kiwanis, and SCORE. He was a devoted 25-year member of the Clyde Wiseman’s Men’s Bible Study. He was a 2008 Man of Distinction awarded by the Alton YWCA. His professional career was recognized by inclusion in Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who in Science and Technology, and other publications.

John loved to travel with his wife, Betty, with trips to Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and many places in the United States and Canada. The couple enjoyed many summer vacations visiting family on Cape Cod.

In addition to Betty and his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Elizabeth Arnold, Virginia Wallace, Elsa McDaniels, and nephews, Jeffrey Arnold and James Arnold. He is survived by nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 10am until time of memorial service at 11am Saturday, January 14, 2023 at the Evangelical United Church of Christ in Godfrey. Reverend Jerry MeCaskey will officiate. Burial will be private at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Evangelical United Church of Christ in Godfrey or the Alton-Godfrey Kiwanis Foundation, 5118 Staten Drive, Godfrey, IL 62035. Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at gentfuneralhome.com

Crosses dedicated at Vaughn Hill Cemetery

By Jeff Allsman Big Z Media

Veterans and their supporters gathered on Veterans Day to honor their own on ground dating back to one of the earliest local settlements. Crosses representing unmarked graves of 56 individuals in Vaughn Hill Cemetery were dedicated by the local chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. The cemetery sits on ground settled as part of Rattan’s Prairie in 1804 by Ohioan Thomas Rattan who fought in the American Revolution. It’s also tied to the Wood River Massacre.

DAR Regent Carol Borner said those buried at the site deserved recognition.

“Their markers were gone. They may be in the garden of the unknowns where we have stones of people that are no longer marked. There was a cataloging of people buried here and they wanted some way to honor, so we worked with the cemetery commission and the Wood River Heritage Council to place the crosses.”

The crowd braved the chilly Veterans Day for the ceremony which also paid tribute to all veterans. Borner mentioned the cemetery’s Garden of Unknowns, fashioned from broken relics of various old headstones, and noted

the patriotism of the DAR organization.

“Supporting our veterans is number one for the DAR and we have always tried to support the military in any way we can.”

The event was sponsored by the Ninian Edwards Chapter, NSDAR of Alton in cooperation with the Wood River Heritage Council, the Wood River Cemetery Commission, and the City of Wood River. Members of the General George Rogers Clark Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution presented colors. 3

Jeff Allsman is a stringer reporter for Big Z Media and hosts the Country Church on 107.1FM/1570AM Sundays from 6-9:30am.

Children’s Day

NSDAR District Director Susan Burgess attended the cross dedication ceremony.

An American flag flies next to a grave marker at Vaughn Cemetery where 29 crosses were dedicated Friday.

The Big Z’s Mike Adams was ringing bells as part of Salvation Army Children’s Day on December 15. Children’s Day has been a tradition for over 50 years starting with WOKZ Radio and now with Big Z Media.

Barrett serves area for 126 years

FIFTH GENERATION FAMILY MEMBERS CONTINUE BUSINESS

By Frank Prager

Big Z Media

Air conditioning and heating are mainstays of modern life. What might have once been considered a luxury is now an essential part of everyday living. It is hard to imagine struggling through a frigid winter with nothing more than a wood stove and a fireplace or sweltering indoors when the thermometer outside inches into the 80s and 90s in the Midwestern humidity.

Barrett Heating & Cooling in Alton has maintained a reputation for reliability and service for 126 years. The company was established on April 22, 1896 by James J. Barrett.

Throughout the decades, the Barrett family has changed, updated and expanded the business to stay current in the field. From the coal and oil-fired gravity furnaces of the early 20th century to the advanced designs of modern-day variable-speed compressors and high-tech electronic thermostats and control boards, Barrett Heating & Cooling has kept pace with the ever-evolving technologies in the industry.

After 126 years, the company remains family-owned and operated. Ed Barrett is the sales manager for Barrett

Heating & Cooling and is a fifth generation descendent of the company’s founder. He notes that estimates for work by the company are free, including for services such as indoor air quality solutions and duct cleaning.

“I’ll come out and look at all of the ducts and registers to assess the work needed,” he says. “Estimates on work is free.”

The company specializes in residential, light commercial and new construction work. They repair and maintain existing equipment as well as do new installations. Among the equipment they work on are Lennox furnaces, air conditioners and heat pumps, Geo Comfort Geo-Thermal heat pumps, Mitsubishi Electric heat pumps as well as Lochinvar, American Standard and Buderus equipment.

In addition, the company installs and maintains Generac generators, which will provide electrical power to entire households in the advent of a power failure.

“We see more interest in the Generac systems because of increasing awareness of the dangers of loss of power if something affects the power grid,” says Barrett. Storms and unanticipated

interruptions to power feeds pose a risk not only to heating and cooling systems but to refrigerators, deep freezers, Internet service and other electrical and electronic devices.

Barrett Heating & Cooling also provides indoor air quality solutions. The company sells Aprilaire humidifiers and Space Guard air cleaners. Humidity control equipment, duct cleaning, high-efficiency filters and air scrubbers can all play an important role in maintaining the quality of the air in a home.

The company sells and installs water heaters. “We haul away the old equipment,” says Barrett. “The existing water heating equipment is often extremely heavy due to the sediment buildup over years of use and can pose a problem for homeowner when attempting to remove it.”

Barrett Heating & Cooling offers a variety of maintenance plans, ranging from basic spring and fall equipment inspections on either heating or cooling equipment to inspections and repair on all equipment, including humidifiers. Maintenance plans include discounts on parts, priority service on emergency work, elimination of overtime charges and reduced diagnostic fees.

“Maintenance agreements are a way to keep costs down by reducing fees and keeping equipment running well,” says Barrett. The company provides emergency service callouts as well as support when parts need to be ordered. “Customers can call twenty-four hours a day,” says Barrett. “We can also provide temporary heaters and window air conditioning units if time is needed to acquire parts.”

Installation and service

Barrett Heating & Cooling

500 Belle Street, Alton 618-465-3731 Mon-Fri 8am - 4:30pm Sat 8am - noon barrettheating.com

technicians are EPA and Nate (North American Technician Excellence) certified. Barrett explains that technical personnel undergo ongoing training to stay current on modern and evolving technologies. He also notes job openings are available for anyone EPA certified in the field.

Barrett Heating & Cooling accepts cash, checks and credit cards for payment. They can also provide financing. The company does not consider jobs

complete until the customer is satisfied and it offers a money back guarantee for one year after work is performed.

Detailed information about products and services offered by the company can be found at their website as well as information on maintenance plans, financing and special offers. The website also lists the 42 towns and cities in their service area. 3

Womack of the Alton Boys and Girls Club

gym built on the site that we were able to use and it went pretty well.

Did you ever imagine you’d still be with the group 25 years later?

By Mark Ellebracht Big Z Media

Alton Boys and Girls Club

Executive Director Al Womack has been with the club as its leader for 25 years but got his start a few years before that. He was a recent guest on Let’s Talk on The Big Z.

Did you hire on as the executive director?

I actually got started a few years earlier as an assistant program director/camp director. The Alton club got its start in the late 80s as an off-shoot of the Bethalto Boys and Girls Club and then as we increased our numbers in afterschool and summer programs, we founded the club at the Catholic Children’s Home on State Street. We were there for many years, there was a

I thought I would come in and have fun and that’s actually what has kept me going and the next thing you know, it’s been 25 years.

I think the key has been to keep the mission about the kids and keep them front and center of why we do what we do, and that’s made the difference in how we’ve been accepted in the community.

COVID-19 was a big challenge for everyone, what was it like for the club?

It was a scary time and especially for the organization, because we had to figure out how to remain relevant since we had just moved into our new home on Washington Avenue. What are we going

I think the key has been to keep the mission about the kids and keep them front and center of why we do what we do, and that’s made the difference in how we’ve been accepted in the community.

Al Womack Executive Director of Alton Boys and Girls Club

to do, how will we do it? But it came down to how we can help kids the most and opening up as a remote learning center to help our kids and the schools was the key. We were able to make sure kids had a place to learn for a year and we were going to do that until things changed. It was just adjusting and pivoting like a lot of people had to do until

that danger ended. Are you now back to normal?

For the most part, yes. We still have a waiting list for some of our programming because we do have limits on class size based on room space and staff size. We’ve dealt with that just like everyone has, but have been fortunate to have had help from SIUE students who really dug into the kids and the programs and that was a plus. Hopefully we’ll have more of them down the road.

What’s on your wish list for the new year?

Just before the pandemic, we had started talking about a new gym. We have the space to grow at our new home but funding will be the issue. I think in the new year, we’ll be ready to talk about that again, get a capital campaign up and running and hopefully find community support. We want to build something that

Federal REAL ID deadline extended to May 7, 2025

Illinois Secretary of State

Jesse White announced today that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has extended the federal REAL ID deadline an additional two years, from May 3, 2023, to May 7, 2025. With this extension, current standard Illinois driver’s licenses or ID cards

will continue to be accepted at airports for domestic air travel until May 7, 2025.

Illinoisans interested in applying for a REAL ID are encouraged to visit REALID.ilsos.gov and use the interactive document checklist. This checklist is designed to help ensure REAL ID applicants gather

all the documents required by the federal government to obtain a REAL ID before visiting a Driver Services facility. First-time REAL ID applicants are required by DHS to visit a Driver Services facility in person. Not everyone needs a REAL ID, and in Illinois, the Secretary of State’s

office gives Illinoisans a choice. Illinoisans who do not fly domestically do not necessarily need a REAL ID. Additionally, a valid U.S. passport is a compliant REAL ID document; therefore, those with valid U.S. passports do not necessarily need a REAL ID. 3

not only the club can use, but the community as well. If someone wants to help or has a BIG donation, I’d love to talk to them!

For more information on the Boys and Girls Club of Alton, go to bgcalton.org or call 618-462-6249. 3

Ed Barrett is the sales manager at Barrett Heating & Cooling and is a 5th generation descendent of the company’s founder. [photo by Frank Prager]

James J. Barrett

Market at Milton continues to expand

Former school building home to multiple small businesses

By Frank Prager

Big Z Media

Market at Milton is a shopping and retail space housing a collection of small businesses and residential apartments in the old Milton school building in Alton.

The 85,000-square-foot facility has a storied history dating back to when it was built in 1904.

The Milton school building operated as a school from 1904 until 1986. It has undergone numerous renovations by various owners since it was closed as a school. Maeva’s Coffee opened at the location in 2014, beginning what has become a local success story for multiple businesses at the location. The building presently houses a dozen small businesses ranging from a barber shop and an investment company to resale shops, a photography studio and counseling services.

The eclectic building has a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. Woodwork smoothly burnished from the traffic of thousands of students over the past century lend it an informal air. Houseplants, some exotic, grow in the tall, open-windowed hallways where fresh-faced kids once bustled from one classroom to another.

Doug Mattingly is a real estate developer and investor. He purchased the building in 2019 and has performed significant improvements and renovations. A new roof and solar panels have been installed. In addition, remodeling and interior construction have been done in the building’s south wing. Mattingly says first floor renovations have been completed and work is currently being performed on the second floor. The facility is now called Market at Milton, reflecting the diverse array of businesses growing at the location.

“It’s a beautiful building,” says Mattingly. “People who

like older, more historical buildings enjoy coming here.” The architecture in the building contains many of the original, classic fixtures. Shoppers can explore the hallways and staircases which meander throughout the main building area and the two building wings.

Kylie Gregory has been the building manager of the facility since April of this year. The longtime Alton resident says she loves Alton and that managing the building facilities is the perfect job for her. She notes renovations and construction are still underway and that the next phase will include event facilities.

“We’re currently renovating

the gym and warehouse spaces,” she explains. “We’ll be hosting events such as concerts, parties, weddings and business events.” It is expected the event facilities will be able to host up to 300 people. Mattingly says he feels the unique atmosphere the building affords will draw people to it and, as a consequence, even more shoppers to the businesses inside.

The lower floor of Market at Milton is currently the location for Soul Sanctuary and Violet Fox Studios. Soul Sanctuary offers opportunities for spiritual renewal and healing. Violet Fox is a portrait and event photography studio. The main level of the north wing houses Maeva’s, a coffeehouse well-known for the quality of its food and beverages. Maeva’s unique atmosphere, outstanding brews and delicious baked goods have made it a favorite among area patrons. The main north level also houses EPP Advisory Group, Jamie Krause/Bailey Clark Photography and Anderson’s Classic Barbershop. The upper floor of the north wing contains Infinite Visuals and CE Ahlin Counseling.

The south wing of the building was renovated this past year and contains Dazed and Reused, a vintage

resale shop. The wing also houses Graceful Treasures, a shop offering “Odd, old, weird & wonderful eclectic finds of all kinds”. The second floor of the south wing has Iron Dragon Hung Gar Kuen, a martial arts studio.

Mattingly says he has space available for new businesses and encourages business owners to explore the unique environment and business opportunities the location offers. He explains a significant part of his vision for the facility is to serve as a small business incubator for the local area. Anyone interested in inquiring about business space should call Kylie Gregory at 314-8811400.

Market at Milton is located at 1320 Milton Road in Alton. The facilities’ Facebook page contains updates on current

sales, events and activities at the location. Information about individual businesses in the building can be found by searching online or on their Facebook pages. 3

Writers of the Riverbend

We are excited to be hosting our sixth Writers of the Riverbend Mix and Mingle in the hallway of Maeva’s Coffee on Saturday, February 4!

Are you a book lover yourself? Come support local authors and discover what works are being created in your community! Meet people behind stories written right here in the riverbend and connect with others who share your love of reading. This free event is perfect for browsing and picking up new books to add to your reading list.

Creators, industry professionals, students, and dabblers: Sell and promote your craft! Are you a creator, but don’t have anything to sell? No problem! You can still attend without a space.

Published or unpublished, authors, poets, songwriters, wordsmiths, editors, designers, illustrators, publishers, agents, creators, and book lovers are welcome! Come connect with new fans, network with other creators, promote your projects, and be a part of the community! For more information go to sarahjdhuephotos.com/ writers-of-the-riverbend.

The Milton schoolhouse building was constructed in 1904 and served as a school building until 1986. It now serves as the location for Market at Milton. [photos by Frank Prager]

Doug Mattingly purchased the Milton schoolhouse building in 2019 and has performed extensive renovations. Kylie Gregory is the building manager. Maeva’s Coffee has been a mainstay of the building since 2014.

Once upon a time, my wife and I co-chaired the Applefest at St. Ambrose Church in Godfrey. It’s our home parish, where we grew up, went to grade school, and got married. We’ve been active there over the years and have been involved in just about every group or committee in the church and the school.

Several years ago, I wrote a short story on my Facebook page regarding “coming clean” about an incident that took place one fall during the annual church picnic. Here it is:

As co-chair of the Applefest, there were others on the committee who assisted me in various tasks. One particular year, I decided the old shed where the Applefest “stuff” was stored needed to be cleaned out. Most of the items in the shed were for the picnic, plus a few old school desks and some

TOWN OF THE

By Mark Ellebracht

wooden pallets. After setting up the event, we noticed those “pallets” didn’t go with any game or booth, so we thought the right thing to do would be to clean out some old stuff in that shed and make more room. I (as co-chair) asked a committee member if we should burn them here or if he had a place to get rid of them. He said he’d “take care of it.” It was almost like the Applefest mafia. He took care of it alright.

Around the end of November that same year, I got a call from a very nice church employee asking if I had seen the wood to the manger scene that goes outside in the front of church. I said, “Not that I can recall...maybe it’s in another shed?”

After hanging up, I realized the wood she was looking for was the very wooden pallets that were burned. I burned the home of baby

Jesus. THE manger…just like in the song. But this manger was AWAY…way AWAY. It was a pile of old cinders.

I called back to the office saying I may have remembered seeing it on its way to the burn pile. I took the heat (just like those pallets) and said I got rid of them to make room in the shed for Applefest supplies and games.

So that year, not only did baby Jesus not have room in the inn, but I also had someone burn down his house to make more room for the Dime Toss. Thankfully, a kind and talented parishioner built a new manager for the following Advent season which is still in use today. I wasn’t told where it’s stored. 3

Mark Ellebracht is News Director of Big Z Media.

Local Eagle Scout honored by Wood River City Council

By Jeff Allsman Big

Z Media

East Alton-Wood River

high school junior Timothy Melton, a member of Boy Scout Troop 16 of the Greater St. Louis Area Council, received his Eagle Scout rank in November. And thanks to Melton, the Upper Alton Baptist Church and Preschool got a new playground. Melton’s Eagle Scout leadership project included updating the playground where he attended preschool. Melton was recognized at the Wood River City Council meeting on December 5. He told Big Z Media he wanted

to give back to a place that took care of him when he was younger.

Melton has earned 66 merit badges. As manager of the playground project, he developed the plan with the preschool director, acquired the approval of the church, organized other scouts and volunteers, and obtained the necessary materials and tools to see the project to completion. His group replaced a retaining wall, dug out and installed a foundation for a shed, repainted wooden tables, and benches, replaced a gutter garden, and spread 5 tons of rock. 3

the order of the letters.

FLASHBACK

By Mick Harper

1. What did “Where the Action Is” and “American Bandstand” have in common?

2. Did Gary Puckett & The Union Gap ever have a No. 1 hit single?

3. Who had the most success with “The Tide Is High”?

4. Which artist went on the Who’s That Girl World Tour?

5. Name the song that contains these lyrics: “I keep a close watch on this heart of mine, I keep my eyes wide open all the time.” (answers in puzzle solutions)

Unscramble the letters within each rectangle to form four ordinary words. Then rearrange the boxed letters to form the mystery word, which will complete the gag!

TRIVIA TEST

By Fifi Rodriguez

1. MOVIES: What was the name of the fictional kingdom in “Frozen”?

2. HISTORY: How many people died as a result of the Boston Massacre of 1770?

3. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What was the name of Scrooge’s business partner in “A Christmas Carol”?

4. TELEVISION: In what city is the long-running drama “Grey’s Anatomy” set?

5. GEOGRAPHY: Which two cities were the original endpoints of the Orient Express?

6. ANIMAL KINGDOM: How many legs does an ant have?

7. LITERATURE: What is the title of Toni Morrison’s first novel?

8. MATH: How many minutes are in a week?

9. BUSINESS SLOGANS: Which company’s slogan is, “Expect more. Pay less”?

10. EXPLORERS: What is the home country of Roald Amundsen, the first to reach the South Pole?

Here is a numerical puzzle designed to spell out your fortune. Count the letters in your first name. If the number of letters is 6 or more, subtract 4. If the number is less than 6, add 3. The result is your key number. Start at the upper left corner and check one of your key numbers, left to right. Then read the message the letters under the checked figures give you.

Even Exchange by Donna Pettman

Word Scrambler

Go Figure

Arrive at the figures given at the bottom and right columns of the diagram by following the arithmetic signs in the order they are given (that is, from left to right and top to bottom). Use only the numbers below the diagram to complete its blank squares and use each of the nine numbers only once.

CryptoQuip

This is a simple substitution cipher in which each letter used stands for another. If you think that X equals O, it will equal O throughout the puzzle. Solution is accomplished by trial and error.

Intercollegiate World Series comes to Alton Action-packed week of Division II baseball set for May 19 – 23 at Lloyd Hopkins Field

The World Series is coming to Alton in 2023 – the National Club Baseball Association World Series that is.

Thanks to a partnership between the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau and the Alton River Dragons, the Division II National Club Baseball Association (NCBA) will hold the annual World Series tournament May 19 –23 at Lloyd Hopkins Field at Gordon Moore Park in Alton. Eight teams will participate from across the U.S.

Amal and Juan are identical twins. Their mom only carries one baby photo in her wallet.

Because if you’ve seen Juan, you’ve seen Amal.

Why does Snoop Dogg use an umbrella? Fo drizzle.

Did you hear that Sting got kidnapped? The Police have no lead.

Sudoku

My buddy David lost his ID

Now we just call him Dave.

In the Old West, cowboys used to hang lanterns on the side of their horses to see at night.

It was the first form of saddle-light navigation.

I went to the library and asked the librarian if they had a book on Pavlov and Schrödinger. The librarian said, “That rings a bell, but I’m not sure if it’s here.”

Dad Jokes.

DIFFICULTY H H

“The Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau has been laser focused on helping to bring high quality sporting events to the region,” Cory Jobe, President/CEO of the Tourism Bureau said. “The Division II Intercollegiate World Series is a major win for our region, the City of Alton and the Alton River Dragons.”

The NCBA has 286 teams, 53 conferences, and three divisions that each team competes in and works toward making it to the World Series. Eight regional tournaments take place in early May around the country and the winners advance to the World Series.

“We are super excited to have the NCBA Division II World Series come to Lloyd Hopkins Field this coming spring,” Alton River Dragons General Manager Dallas Martz noted. 3

What’s The Difference? Find

Find the listed words in the diagram. They run forward, backward, up, down and diagonally. Unlisted hint: Derived from the sun

Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each small 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

Puzzles sponsored by Simmons Hanly Conroy

A Riverbend Law Firm Helping Families Nationwide

•

BLOOD DRIVE

FRAY BEYOND THE

By Sam Stemm

Another new year. And another opportunity for selfimprovement. Isn’t that what New Year’s resolutions are all about. Self improvement? Well, pardon me if I take a pass. Who says the first of the year is the ideal time to take on a change in habits? If you ask me, it might be the worst time. After all, we’re just coming off the Christmas season, replete with glad tidings, comfort, and joy. Why spoil that by putting pressure on ourselves to affect change?

Let’s just hunker down and enjoy the afterglow of the holidays we just experienced. Truth be told, the months following the holiday season are depressing enough without the pressure of dealing with New Year’s resolutions. The bills for all those Christmas presents will soon be arriving. The days are short and the weather depressing. And there’s really no reason to be excited about it being a new year. Truthfully, what are the chances it’s gonna be any better than the past year? Making New Year’s resolutions requires taking stock in my current state. Am I too fat? Resolve to lose weight. Am I out of shape? Resolve to exercise. Am I lazy? Resolve to accomplish more. See how this is going? I think I’d rather resolve not to remind myself of all my shortcomings. How’s that for a New Year’s resolution? Maybe we’d all be better if we resolved to take on the mantra of the Saturday Night Live character Stuart Smalley who was fond of proclaiming, “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me!” There – problem solved. No need for New Year’s resolutions. Good enough and smart enough and being liked ought to be enough. No need to knock myself out trying to be the best, the smartest, and beloved.

In reality, over the years I’ve made many selfimprovement resolutions and accomplished them with discipline and hard work. I just never timed them to coincide with the dawn of a new year.

I quit smoking (cold turkey) more than 15 years ago in August. I just woke up one

Maybe we’d all be better if we resolved to take on the mantra of the Saturday Night Live character Stuart Smalley who was fond of proclaiming, “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me!” There – problem solved.

day and decided today’s the day. And haven’t smoked another dart since then. There was nothing magical about the day and I had the added benefit that nobody was asking me about how my New Year’s resolution was coming.

I embarked on a weight loss and exercise program quite a few years ago in the springtime. At various times I’ve resolved to read more, cuss less, smile more, criticize less, and any other myriad of self-improvement efforts without the necessity of timing those efforts to coincide with the first of the year.

So, no need to ask me about my New Year’s resolutions. I simply refuse to participate. And as far as I’m concerned, it’s okay if you choose not to partake as well. After all, I’m sure you’re good enough, you’re smart enough, and doggone it, people like you. And that’s enough as we embark on this new year that might or might not be better this past year. Happy New Year!

Sam Stemm is the President of Big Z Media.

Eclectic, upscale establishment

By Bill Roseberry Big Z Media

For this food adventure I traveled to northwestern Madison County for an eclectic experience at a pretty elegant establishment.

You will find this place in the nightlife business district of this community and depending on when you visit you’ll get a different array of creative cuisines to choose from. There are lunch and dinner menus, as well as a Saturday brunch menu. A call to check on wait times or make reservations may be in order due to space and popularity.

Look for street parking and there is plenty, but you may have to take a short stroll if there is nothing out front of this jiving joint.

The brick storefront with the name of the restaurant prominently displayed is easy to see. There is also an outdoor menu strategically placed to tease the tasty treats inside. Look for the green door between the large windows to enter into the storefront.

It is surprisingly spacey from what you fathom outside the building. You’ll quickly inhale the upscale ambiance and realize this will be an experience rather than just a meal.

You’ll immediately be greeted by a hostess to guide you on your adventure.

The bar area is the starting point. A small bar wraps around the corner with a dimpled metal top and wooden front. Several metal stools with wooden tops line the bar for patrons to sit. There are also four high

top tables with stools for additional seating. There is one with a dimpled metal top, like the bar, while the others have wood tops.

The flooring is a rustic wood setup, while there is a brick wall adjacent to the bar featuring a mantle and fireplace to add pizzazz. Lots of liquors, wines and beers are on display, too.

Walk through the bar, turn left and you’ll discover a hallway leading to the restrooms before opening into a small dining room.

There is also a quaint, enclosed brick patio in the back of the building for casual and intimate dining.

The indoor dining room has rustic features perfect for a date night, or a casual gathering of friends. It’s evident they’ve taken great pride in the design of the restaurant.

I ponied up to one of the tables in the bar for my recent lunch visit. I really enjoyed the touch of the “Reserved Parking for River Dragons Fans Only” sign in the room to represent the Riverbend with pride.

When you get a gander at a menu here, you immediately see they put a lot of effort into their eclectic and creative fare.

The lunch menu is dominated by soups, salads and sandwiches, so I went with a soup and a sandwich and washed it down with a tasty beer.

I’ll start with my soup, which was wild mushroom and asparagus. When the cup arrived it featured big spears of asparagus, hunks

of mushrooms and finely sliced onions. It was oh so creamy and popping from the robust flavors of the asparagus, which was definitely the driving taste. It was a fabulous starter.

For my sandwich I ordered Beau’s twisted Cuban. It consisted of roasted turkey, smoked ham, bread and butter pickles, swiss cheese and their house made Cuban sauce, which was a creamy mayo mustard aioli. The sauce and the pickles steered the taste. The ham was super tender and along with the panini bread added to the experience, too.

The bread was deliciously doughy in the middle but offered a great crunch on the edges. Unfortunately, the turkey was pretty non existent in the flavor. The aioli was so creamy and powerful. It was both sweet and bitter to awaken my palate.

My only knock is it left me wanting more. It was so good but not quite enough food for a growing boy like myself.

I washed it down with a quenching peaches and cream ale off of their rotating craft beer menu. It was subtly peachy, extremely creamy, light and the perfect companion for my small lunch. They have a small,

Overall:

Cleanliness:

Service:

Food:

Price: Any idea of the name of this restaurant? Check the puzzle solutions to see if you are right.

but exceptional beer menu. Of course there is plenty more to experience here, from salads, soups, paninis, quiches and crepes on the lunch menu to the tantalizing dinner menu and mouth-watering brunch menu. Check out the eight-ounce filet, the shrimp fettuccine, or the vegan cannelloni with cauliflower and mushrooms off the dinner menu. Look for the Elvis inspired Hunka Hunka Burnin Love on the brunch menu, which offers peanut butter, bananas and bacon between two slices of French toast. There is plenty more to please the palate and offer a sophisticated experience here, too. 3

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Your work on a recent job assignment is impressive and sure to be noticed. Meanwhile, expect to receive news about an upcoming holiday event you won’t want to miss.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Saving the world one person at a time is what you were born to do. So accept it when people ask you for help, especially during the holiday season.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Now that you’ve resolved all doubts about an important decision, you can surprise a lot of people by defending your stand with strong and well-reasoned arguments.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) The holiday mood stirs your need to nurture everyone, from the family cat to great-grandma. But don’t overdo it, especially with teens, who like to feel grown up.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Enjoy basking in the warm love of family and close friends this holiday season. But don’t fall into a prolonged catnap yet. There’s still much to do before you can fully put up your paws and relax.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Avoid pushing others to work as hard as you do on a common project. Instead, encourage them to do their best, and they might well reward you with a pleasant surprise.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Like the sensible Libra you are, you no doubt already started your holiday shopping. But be careful to keep within your budget. Shop around for the best buys.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Love and friendship remain strong in your aspect over the next several days. This is a good time to develop new relationships and strengthen old ones.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A beloved family member has news that will brighten your holidays. Also expect to hear from friends who had long since moved out of your life.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Family and friends are in for a surprise when you accept the need to make a change without being talked into it. (Bet it surprised you, too, didn’t it?)

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Restoring an old friendship might not be as easy as you had hoped. You might want to explore the reasons for your former buddy’s reluctance to cooperate.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your party-going activities pick up as the holiday season takes off. Enjoy your plunge into the social swim as you make new friends and renew old friendships. 3

Proudly serving the Riverbend area for 35 years

• Comprehensive hearing evaluations

• Guaranteed proper tting of latest hearing aid technology

• Completely risk-free trial period

618-822-1194

NMLS #411326

RESTORING THE

SOUL

By Ty Bechel

Starting over again, and again, and again

It is that time of the year again when social media will be filled with sentimental posts discussing how 2022 had many unique challenges. These posts will be followed by hollowed-out pictures and other posts about how 2023 will be different. Verbal motivation will be high, but discipline will be absent from many people’s newly public manifestos of a proposed change.

Discipline is used as fuel when we put down on our

phones and log out of social media. I heard somewhere that “discipline is doing something we don’t want to do when we don’t want to do it.” Eating healthy, exercising three days a week, putting down the nicotine, avoiding toxic relationships, or whatever goal we establish for ourselves can have a better chance of success if we apply discipline, education, spiritual guidance, and commitment.

Starting over is a paradox in itself. The change may be necessary for overall health and happiness, but we do

not need to jump on the bandwagon and use the beginning of the calendar year to set our goals for a new desired way of life. Health, whether mental, physical, or emotional, is a yearly pursuit that must take priority for us if we want to reap the benefits of being “healthy.”

Part of the problem many of us experience is knowing the benchmark to be healthy or how to achieve it. Publications over the years have enabled unhealthy habits by telling their readers to accept their unhealthy habits and maybe limit some drug use, have one piece of cake instead of two, or switch from cigarettes to vape pens. I understand this method because harm reduction has been around for years, like putting a plastic cellulose acetate filter on cigarettes.

According to the CDC, the United States had an obesity rate of 39.8% among adults aged 20 to 39 in 2017. These numbers are alarming, yet it is a complex subject to tackle. On the one hand, you do not want to upset those struggling with weight gain or obesity, but on the other, you do not wish to claim it is okay to accept this as the view of health standards. In 2017, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported 19.7 million Americans (12 years and older) had a substance use disorder. It is probably fair to say that our nation could become healthier in many ways. Do not get me started on how people talk to one another, especially on social media. Healthy com munication is something to ponder as well. Starting over can be some-

• No gimmicks, no pressure, no hidden fees

• Work with all major insurance companies

Shop Local Live Local

MIDAMERICAAUDIOLOGYGROUP.COM

3511 COLLEGE AVENUE, ALTON

thing other than a pursuit we set out to accomplish once a year, only to see our motivation diminish within one or two months. There is a saying, “if you are having a bad day, you can start your day over whenever you want.” The same rules apply to the pursuit of health and happiness. Moreover, we are committed to the bondage of self, and many of us do not have positive role models to help with our goals, which could be life-changing. The desire for change is there. According to the NPD group, self-help book sales grew by 11 percent from 2013 to 2019. And you cannot thumb through a social media timeline without seeing inspirational quotes or videos proposing personal change.

We live in a very busy world with many conveniences, yet we find ourselves struggling. We must focus on personal change at the molecular level to optimize our results. When we set out on an endeavor to reclaim our lives and look to instill self-empowerment, it is also beneficial if we have a support system in place. When we face challenges or obstacles as we try to improve ourselves, it is nice to have someone to discuss this with that is going through or has gone through the same thing. Change takes a daily commitment. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.” May your days in 2023 be the best yet. 3

“IS IT TIME FOR A NEW SYSTEM?”

ARE YOU READY TO BEAT THE PAIN?

Introducing drug-free, non-surgical, FDA-cleared, state-of-the-art MLS Laser Therapy. Whether you suffer from long-term pain or pain from a recent injury, you can get relief for your pain.

MLS Laser Therapy is an effective, safe, painless treatment for all types of pain relief.

Benefits of Laser Therapy

- Non-Surgical Treatment

- Pain Free

- Extremely Safe with No Known Side Effects

- Rapid Results

- Speeds Healing Process

Common Conditions Treated Back Pain/Arthritis Pain

Hip Pain/Muscle Strains

Knee Pain/Neck Pain

Shoulder Pain/Tendonitis

Heel Pain/Chronic Pain

Pain due to injury/Numbness

Carpal Tunnel/Tingling

FREE CONSULTATIONS

F. RYAN BEMIS, D.C.

230 Regional Drive, Alton 618-433-9333

bemisfamilychiropractic.com

Located next to Target

Bemis...a trusted name in the chiropractic profession for more than 100 years.

4.8 Star Google Reviews

“Barrett Heating and Cooling is a highly professional, local business. We’ve had them out for yearly maintenance. We recently had some leaking from the basement humidifier and Greg came out same day to fix the issue, which happened to be Christmas Eve. ... This new mother of twins is appreciative of Greg and Steve’s dedication to making the customer experience absolutely phenomenal.”

“Amazing customer service! I placed a work order request on their website and requested help with our air conditioner. Roger called in advance of arrival and as always was friendly and professional. Roger diagnosed my components systematically and explained what he was doing. He had the replacement components on his truck. One hour later and our emergency is over.”

CALL TO ACTION

WE NEED YOU!

The State of Illinois has proposed a bill (HB5840 / SB4241) which would amend the Pawnbroker Act to include Pawn Shops under the “Predatory Lending” laws and cap our allowable interest on customer loans at only 3% monthly (36% annually). The passing of this bill would essentially close every Pawn Shop in the state and leave tens of thousands of consumers with no comparable option.

A WMAKERSNEED TOHEARFRO

Definition of Pawn: to deposit in pledge or as security, especially in exchange for money. Pawn transactions DO NOT require a credit score, have no impact on credit score, and are NOT required to be repaid.

WAYS WE HELP THE COMMUNITY

Sam’s Pawn Shop commits donations yearly to Salvation Army, Riverbend Head Start (Sponsor), Policeman’s Benevolent Fund, Alton Main Street, Riverbend Growth Association, as well as local Public and Private Schools, local Churches, Fundraisers, Charities and more. We offered Gas Cards to customers, Newspapers for Classrooms, Interest Free Month during COVID, as well as utilize local papers, advertisers, web services and more.

My name is Stacy R (Balaco) Dixon, owner of Sam’s Loans, Inc (Sam’s Pawn Shop), a local, family owned & operated pawnbroker in Alton, IL. Our family has been in business in Alton for over 100 years! As an immigrant from Greece in the early 1900’s, my Great Grandfather, Sam Balaco opened a clothing store in 1919. He then purchased the historic BonAir Bar from Anheuser Busch after prohibition. It continued in my family with my Grandfather, Lotteo Balaco, and Father Sam Balaco II until 1982. In 1991, my Father & Grandfather opened Sam’s Pawn Shop to the Alton community. I worked side by side with them for 28 years, as have my sister, Katie Dockstader, for 20 years, and my husband, Corey Dixon, for 17 years. We truly are family owned & operated and hoping to continue the legacy of my Father who passed earlier this year. Our customers are like family. I’ve cheered, hugged, and cried with many of my customers. My Father always said, “be compassionate to your customers, you don’t know what it’s like to be hungry.” As we’ve asked for signatures to fight these two bills, our customers have asked “what will we do?” or said “we depend on you, you’re our bank”. We offer short term, collateral loans, to customers who need money for gas, help with an unexpected expense, or grocery money in between paychecks. Every one of the thousands of signatures has

understood the interest we charge, why we charge it, and hope we will continue to be able to do business in Alton, and the State of Illinois.

LMaybe you’ve never had to utilize a pawn shop. Many of our customers come from all walks of life with all situations. They know coming to us, that they are treated fairly, honestly and flexibly to get their merchandise back. They know their merchandise will be secure, and safe. We’ve built that reputation for generations. All loans at Sam’s Pawn Shop are 100% transparent with no hidden fees. We’ve held payments, loaned more, offered more and have done all we can to try to allow each customer the opportunity to reclaim merchandise that had been pawned. To be called “Predatory” by the State of Illinois is personally an insult to myself and my family’s legacy. Please see this ad, stop in and talk, ask questions, or call me personally to find out the truth about what we do! Our thousands of customers, as well as the local community depend on us to be here, and I’d like to make sure we can continue to provide assistance for them in their times of need. HB5840/ SB4241 are Predatory proposals, towards our small family owned business, our customers, and our community… Please help us fight.

BUSINESS OWNERS CONSUMERS

Sincerely, Stacy R (Balaco) Dixon

CALL TO ACTION

Please

•Predatory Lending is defined as: Unfair, deceptive, or abusive loan terms by use of fraudulent, deceptive, and lack of transparency means in order to trap consumers in a cycle of debt. Pawn Loans are 100% transparent, and consumers are NEVER trapped. Most Loans are UNDER $150, and redeemed within 60 days..and if a customer doesn’t want to payback the debt, they AREN’T REQUIRED TO. Ironically, Big Banks and Credit Card Companies are EXEMPT from the Predatory Lending Act Policies and Requirements in Illinois, yet they have late fees, lending fees, and extreme recourse options for non-payment.

WHY PAWN SHOPS AREN’T “PREDATORY LENDERS”

EMPLOYEES

•Pawn Shops are also regulated in Illinois under the Division of Banking & Finance. Over the last 3 years, there has not been ONE SINGLE COMPLAINT to that division regarding Pawnbroker interest, fees, or lending practices..NOT ONE, for any pawnshop in the State of Illinois

•Pawnbrokers are the oldest type of lending in existence. Dating back thousands of years. 90% of Pawnbrokers are locally owned & operated, living and contributing to the community they serve. Illinois now wants to close that industry, regulate tax paying pawnbrokers out of the state, leaving customers already under constraint to use other unregulated methods, or push them to deal with out of state pawnbrokers, hurting every local customer who needs access to short term, worry free, no credit check lending means. Banks won’t handle small loans, banks won’t even handle collateral loans…where does that leave customers if Pawnbrokers don’t exist in Illinois?

•Pawn Loan rates are currently capped at 20% monthly total charges, or 240% annually is the number legislators like to use, which represents if a customer left their loan in for a full year. 80% or more of all loans are redeemed within 60 days, so that annual rate never applies. They want to drop that rate to 3% monthly or 36% annually, which would eliminate working capitol for every local pawnbroker. Is that sustainable? Would any lawmaker, lender, industry or business be able or willing to sustain taking an 85% cut in wages, service fees, working capitol, or labor and be able to provide the same quality or quantity of valuable service?

MPawnbrokers are already a heavily regulated industry. Unlike traditional lenders, we take all the risk. Other than selling unclaimed merchandise, we have no recourse for unpaid loans. What if sales are down during times of high inflation? What if the merchandise didn’t work properly? Pawn Shops do not report to credit agencies, do not garnish wages, do not affect future credit, all while not soliciting or cold calling as traditional lenders. If a customer does not want to repay the debt, they are not obligated. Ironically, Big Banks and Credit Card companies DO NOT fall under the title of “predatory” even though they can charge whatever interest they want based on credit or payment history. They are allowed to charge what they need based on the amount of sustainable loss they assess for their business.

WHAT DOES THE PAWN LOAN FINANCE CHARGE COVER?

Finance charges cover REQUIRED ITEMS BY THE STATE such as Insurance on Customer Merchandise, Pawn License, Business License, Federal AND State issued Firearms License, Fire and Theft Security Systems, Software connected to Leads Online for Police Inquiry, Utilities, Rent, Payroll, Storage of Merchandise and day to day expenses. However, the most important thing finance charges cover is the MONEY TO LOAN. We are not backed by the federal banking system; we must fund ourselves as Pawnbrokers. If we don’t make money, we have no money to loan… it’s that simple.

HOW WOULD HB5840 / SB4241 HURT OUR CUSTOMERS?

Our customers CHOOSE to do business with us independently and locally. Would Illinois rather them have to drive to bordering states to pawn when they are already constrained financially? Would Illinois rather them use “back alley” lenders who aren’t regulated through the state? Would Illinois rather them resort to writing bad checks, or taking out lines of credit? What if our customers don’t have the means, or can’t cover overdraft fees? What if they can’t afford to reconnect phone or electric service because they didn’t have access to the money. What if they were forced to sell items that could have been loaned against and retrieved? This bill would kill the Pawn industry in Illinois and HURT everyday citizens. We are going to fight to not let that happen! This bill is backed by big banks, big business, and big politics with no concern for customers who NEED PAWN SHOPS!

Let us explain what we do and how we do it!

Over 1600 signatures in 2 weeks but we need more! Stop in and sign to support your local pawnbroker!

contact your lawmakers and ask them to vote NO on HB5840 and SB4241

In his own write

BJC administrator at AMH publishes third novel Michael Ringering’s fulltime job is the administrator of several specialty physicians’ offices on the Alton Memorial Hospital campus, but he keeps himself quite busy away from the office, too.

Writing is his other game, and Ringering recently released his third novel, Where Butterflies Go to Die, as well as his fifth short story, The Boy Who Ate Dirt. Ringering is the administrator over three BJC Medical Group of Illinois offices -- Neurology and Sleep Medicine, Alton Surgery, and Diabetes and Endocrine Care in Medical Office Building B, Suite 230, 4 Memorial Drive in Alton. A 1984 graduate of East AltonWood River High School, he earned a Business Administration degree from Murray State University in Kentucky in 1989. He’s been involved in health care since 2005, but his interest in writing goes back to third grade at Eastwood Elementary School in East Alton.

“I had to do a book report (Broomtail by Miriam Mason), and it’s when I saw the author’s name embossed on the book that I knew I wanted to be an author,” Ringering said. “I’ve been writing in some fashion ever

since.”

Where Butterflies Go to Die is a work of fiction inspired by World War II veteran Douglas C. McDonald, who Ringering befriended in 2010 while working in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

The story details the struggles of Bobby Lee Darrow, who, having spent the first 21 years of his life consumed with self and finding the easy way out, is thrust into a life-changing journey after earning court-mandated community service as an orderly at an assisted living facility.

Darrow befriends a lonely World War II veteran battling dementia, who’s concealing a wartime secret and claims of a long-lost love.

Captivated by the man’s story and the mysterious circumstances surrounding his life, Bobby embarks on a cross country quest in search of the truth. Along the way, he discovers new friends, a love of his own, and a newfound purpose for his life.

The Boy Who Ate Dirt, a fictional short, relays the story of Major League Baseball star Jack Rose, who visits his hometown prior to the start of a new season. After running into an old high school buddy who recounts a disturbing childhood event, Jack’s perspective on life and the man he’s become changes forever.

Making a baseball star the main character is no accident. Ringering spent more than a decade in communications/media relations with the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds – after serving a marketing internship with the Cardinals in 1987. That team lost the World Series to the Minnesota Twins, as did the 1991 Braves when Ringering worked in Atlanta. He was part of a third World Series in 1992 when the Braves lost to the Toronto Blue Jays. He then became the youngest public relations director in baseball (29) when he moved to Cincinnati in 1995, working for the Reds’ notorious owner, Marge Schott.

He left baseball in 2002 and worked in other marketing positions before moving into health care. But the writing bug has never left him. Where Butterflies Go to Die and The Boy Who Ate Dirt are available now in both eBook and paperback on Amazon Kindle (US, UK, AU, CA, IN), Apple Books, Nook, Kobo, and Smashwords. 3

both created by Dick Clark, with Clark hosting “Bandstand” from 1956 to 1989. He never appeared on “Action,” only doing remote announcing of the bands.

but it was in the U.K., when “Young Girl” topped the charts in 1968.

3. Blondie, in 1980. The original was released by the Paragons, in 1967.

4. Madonna, in 1987. Her first was the Virgin Tour in 1985.

5. “I Walk the Line,” by Johnny Cash. He penned the song, about marital fidelity and avoiding temptation, in under an hour. It stayed on the charts for 43 weeks and, in 2014, ended up as No. 1 on the list of the 100 greatest country songs of all time.

Two Metro East Illinois organizations receive grants to improve health care

Two Metro East Illinois organizations are among those statewide recently awarded grants through two programs that together provided nearly $3 million this year to help improve the oral and overall health of

Illinoisans. These grant programs aiming to improve health care across the state through education and access to quality care are the COVID-19 Renewal Grant program, funded by Delta

Lewis and Clark debuts new branding, logo

By Mark Ellebracht Big Z Media

Lewis and Clark Community College has introduced a new logo and branding for the institution. The college officially unveiled the new design, additional colors, and tagline on December 12 after a year-long study of everything that represents the Godfrey-based school that is 52 years old. While there have been a few changes along the way, this is the first formal update to the branding of the school since its inception.

College President Dr. Ken Trzaska says it’s all about the students, “Our students are at the heart, the core of this institution and being able to unveil this new brand for them and talk about how

it’s going to take us into the future is amazing. We love our students and we’re ready to keep it going!”

The new logo was unveiled on the large sign along Godfrey Road just before the celebration event in The Commons which was attended by more than 100 students, faculty, and staff.

“Driven to Discover” is the new tagline for the school and a new promotional video also had its debut.

Trailblazer blue and white will remain the primary school colors, but secondary colors of battleship grey, sunglow (gold), and black have been added. A new website is currently being designed and should be ready for its debut later next spring. 3

Dental of Illinois Foundation and Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation, and Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation’s Community Grants program.

Metro East Illinois recipients of Delta Dental of Illinois

Foundation Community Grants includes Riverbend Head Start and Family Services, Alton ($10,000).

The 2022-2023 Oral Health Education and Access Project is for 759 participants enrolled in our

Head Start and Early Head Start Programs including expectant mothers and children ages newborn to five years. The program provides annual dental exams for ages two and up.

This year, leveraging their

funding request, they would like to continue to include prenatal mothers enrolled in their program to ensure they have the necessary exams and treatment vital for a healthy pregnancy and babies. 3

Dr. Ken Trzaska speaks at the brand launch event on Dec. 12. [photos by Mark Ellebracht]

Easy ways to give your health a boost

By Graham Colditz, MD, DrPH Siteman Cancer Center

December can be a good time for some reflection, so

I thought I’d take a look back at my health columns from the past year.

With the help of my colleagues, we were able to cover a wide range of topics – from sun safety, healthy sleep and greenspaces to macular degeneration,

cancer and mental health.

Notably, for such a diverse set of columns, there was one key theme that ran throughout: Small changes in our behaviors can be powerful tools for improving our mental and physical health.

That’s an important message for any time of year, but maybe even more so right

now as we head into the busy winter holidays.

So, keeping with that theme, here are 18 quick, healthy wins you can pick from to work into your days between now and the new year. While it’s great if they’re part of a plan to slowly build up to bigger health and fitness goals, they don’t have to be. They can just be stand-alone victories that help keep our health and wellness in mind as we navigate our way through the end of this year

and beginning of the next. For healthier eating –and drinking

Say “no, thank you” to whipped cream – at least sometimes.

Pick a day to go meatless and cheese-less. Bonus: Go even healthier with a lot of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Choose the small size when ordering a sweet, holidayflavored coffee drink. Bonus: Try unsweetened coffee or tea instead, with just a dash of milk.

Switch up the order of foods in your cupboards and fridge. Move healthier choices (fruits, vegetables, nuts) to where they’re easier to see and grab.

Instead of alcohol, choose fizzy water or an alcohol-free beer or spirit at your next holiday gathering.

For keeping moving

Pick a day where you take a five-minute standing and easy stretching break every hour.

Try walking for some of your close-by errands instead of taking a car or transit (if you can do it safely).

Take your kids to the indoor playground at your local rec center.

Pick a morning and commit to fitting in an exercise class or some other physical activity before your day gets busy.

For better sleep

Say “no, thank you” to that afternoon tea or coffee, or choose decaf instead. Pick a night to get to bed 30 – 60 minutes earlier than you would normally.

Pick a night to go without any screens once you get in bed. Bonus: Silence your phone or leave it in another room (if you’re able to be out of contact).

For mental health

Pick an hour (or even an afternoon) to fully unplug – from social media, news, podcasts or just screens in general.

Try to take some time for yourself, especially when things get stressful. Visit with friends, take a yoga or stretching class or go for a walk (if you can do it safely).

If you’re in a mental health crisis, call 988 – Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

For overall health

If you haven’t yet, pick a day to get your flu vaccine and COVID booster. Bonus: Make plans for your family to keep up to date on vaccines.

Call your doctor or clinic about scheduling any missed or upcoming cancer screenings.

If you smoke, spend five minutes checking out smokefree.gov. Bonus: Text QUIT to 47848 to receive daily text messages to help you stop smoking, from smokefree.gov.

As we make our way through the month’s celebrations, family visits, colder weather and, yes, sometimes stresses, it can be more important than ever to look after our health and wellness. These simple behaviors may be just what we need to do that – and head toward a happy and healthy 2023.

It’s your health. Take control. 3

Dr. Graham A. Colditz, associate director of prevention and control at Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is an internationally recognized leader in cancer prevention and the creator of the free prevention tool YourDiseaseRisk.com. Alton Memorial Hospital is a member of the Siteman Cancer Network.

The United Methodist Village is now Asbury Village! Here, you’ll find a countryside neighborhood that bustles with activities and opportunities. Along with our new name comes a fresh focus on good health and wellness, and exciting, new services, amenities and programs. We invite you to come be a part of it all, to discover what’s next for you. Call us at (618) 466-8662 today to learn more!

The United Methodist Village is now Asbury Village! Here, you’ll find a countryside neighborhood that bustles with activities and opportunities. Along with our new name comes a fresh focus on good health and wellness, and exciting, new services, amenities and programs. We invite

New name, new amenities, same great community!

The United Methodist Village is now Asbury Village! Here, you’ll find a countryside neighborhood that bustles with activities and opportunities. Along with our new name comes a fresh focus on good health and wellness, and exciting, new services, amenities and programs. We invite you to come be a part of it all, to discover what’s next for you. Call us at (618) 466-8662 today to learn more!

New name, new amenities, same great community!

New name, new amenities, same great community!

The star

I loved acting when I was in high school. And I was pretty good at it, too. I usually secured the lead role in any school play, except musicals. After all, it’s hard to vie for the lead in a high musical when you can’t sing worth a hoot. Many of my teenage peers could sing beautifully, but I sang only to kill time—and it was a very effective weapon.

It had been years since I acted in a public play, and I thought it would be the perfect occasion to attempt a comeback now that the Christmas season was upon us. Specifically, I was looking for a role in the community Christmas program. The lead roles, of course, required no singing ability, because the community chorus was singing all the carols.

I confidently approached the lady in charge. Not one to hand out major roles that freely, the Gestapo-like director asked, in guttural tones and syllables, if I would be willing to play an angel.

Thinking quickly, I said, “I think I could wing it.”

She was unamused. Imagine that. You would think the Gestapo would have a better

LIFE HESTON ON

By Pat Heston

sense of humor. I quickly cut to the chase. “I would prefer the lead role,” I explained. “After all, I am an experienced actor.”

Upon hearing that, she suggested—with what seemed like rolling eyes— that I might want to try playing a stable cow instead. In fact, she told me, that if I would hurry over to where Mrs. Claremore was standing, there still might be a minor bovine part for me.

Always quick on my feet, I replied, somewhat sarcastically, “Well, then, I’ll hoof it right over there.”

Once more, she was unamused. Go figure.

But I wasn’t knuckling under—certainly not to her suggestion of a bovine part, or even to the decidedly more significant part of an angel.

Again, I insisted, “I want the lead role. I am an experienced actor.”

“So, you want to be the star of the show?” she queried.

“Well, in a word … yes,” I replied in as humble a tone as possible, not realizing how hard it is, on the fly, to make blatant hubris sound like believable humility.

To my disappointment,

Live Christmas greens

she told me that the lead role was already taken and that I couldn’t have it. It had been promised, as it is every year, to the Township Supervisor’s daughter’s doll.

The domineering director then suggested that I could, if I wanted, silently lead the Magi to Joseph and Mary’s.

“Silently?” I asked, not quite believing what I had just heard.

“That’s right,” she answered. “Silently. You could silently lead the Magi.”

“No lines?”

“That is what ‘silently’ means,” she answered with a wry smile.

“So, you mean I couldn’t speak a single word?”

“That is correct, not a single word.”

“Why would I want a part like that?” I asked.

“Well,” she replied, “you said you wanted to be the star.”

I was unamused. 3

Pat Heston is co-host of Let’s Talk on Tuesday and Thursday on WBGZ 107.1FM/1570AM. He’s also the author of the book “Journey Into Newness: The Soul-Making Power of a Wilderness,” and a retired pastor.

Dennis Terry to retire from First Mid after long-standing banking career

Dennis Terry, Business Development Officer at First Mid Bank & Trust, will be retiring on December 30, after a long-standing banking career of over 50 years in Edwardsville and the surrounding communities.

“Dennis has been a stable force in the financial industry in the Metro East for many years,” said Lisa Fowler, Regional Community Bank President at First Mid. “Not only is he well-known in Edwardsville and Madison County, but he has worked with many businesses and individuals throughout the St. Louis area during his career. He has been instrumental in providing opportunities and mentoring many individuals in the communities he has served. We will certainly miss

Terry

his daily presence but his influence on all of us will continue his outstanding legacy. We wish him the best in his retirement and are forever grateful for his service to our organization, our customers, and his colleagues.”

Terry began with Mercantile Trust in St. Louis, MO in 1970. He moved to Edwardsville National Bank in 1973, which subsequently merged with Mark Twain Bank, then Mercantile Bank, then Firstar Bank. He then joined Clover Leaf Bank in 2000 as their President and CEO. Terry continued as President and CEO when Clover Leaf Bank merged with First Federal Saving & Loan in 2006 to become First Clover Leaf Bank. In 2016, FCLB merged with First Mid Bank &

Trust. Terry’s community knowledge, banking expertise, and service excellence earned him the position of Business Development Officer for First Mid, which he has held ever since.

During his long-tenured career, Terry was appointed to the Thrift Institutions Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Board for 2010 and 2011.

Over the years, he has been active in several community organizations and nonprofit boards, serving as treasurer and board member of the EGHM Foundation, past president of the SIUE Foundation, and past president of the Edwardsville YMCA Board of Directors. Terry ends a stellar career as a wellrespected banker, advisor, and mentor to many, including many colleagues at First Mid. 3

St. Louis Urban League CEO to speak at Alton MLK event

For Big Z Media

The Alton Branch of the NAACP will hold its annual Martin Luther King, Jr., Commemorative Event on Sunday January 15 at 3pm at the Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Alton. Michael McMillan is this year’s guest speaker. McMillan is the CEO of the St. Louis Metropolitan Urban League. The theme this year is “Injustice Anywhere is a Threat to

Justice Everywhere” and the public is invited to attend.

McMillan has received hundreds of awards and commendations from various organizations and was recently inducted into the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame as its youngest member. He was also named one of the Ebony Power 100 Most Influential African Americans in the United States. Additionally, he is the

recipient of the Whitney M. Young and the John Mack Leadership Awards from the National Urban League; the Chairman’s Award presented by the St. Louis Minority Supplier Development Council and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Montford Point Marines. Michael Holliday is the new president of the Alton NAACP and Rev. John Buford is the host pastor at Tabernacle. 3

MCT announces February 2023 service adjustments

At a time when 84% of transit agencies around the country are experiencing workforce shortages, affecting their ability to provide service, Agency for Community Transit (ACT) is pleased to announce that despite its own multi-year driver shortage, proposed Madison County Transit (MCT) service reductions won’t be necessary any time soon. ACT operates all services for Madison County Transit and all drivers are ACT employees. Thanks to ACT’s recent recruiting efforts, which led to the hiring of 16 new drivers, service reductions that were proposed in October will not be required. After delaying a decision on the service change in October, the MCT Board of Trustees

approved a revised plan at its November meeting that avoids frequency reductions on three MCT bus routes.

A revised summary of changes, effective February 5, 2023, is listed below. For detailed schedule information visit mct.org, call 618-797-INFO (4636) or email info@mct.org. Despite the recent recruitment successes, additional drivers are still needed to prevent future service disruption and reductions.

#4 Madison-Edwardsville: Increase weekday service span until 9:46 p.m. to accommodate SIUE and SWIC evening classes.

#6 Roxana-Pontoon Beach: Extend all trips to Wood River Schnucks on IL-143.

#9 Washington Shuttle:

Reinstate service to Skyline Towers senior living facility in Alton.

#10 State and Elm Shuttle: Eliminate service to Bachman Lane group home due to lack of demand. Create additional trip to Lewis and Clark Community College.

#13 Troy-Glen Carbon: Serve Cambridge House and Liberty Village on IL-162 on every trip.

#20X Gateway Commerce Center Express: Adjust running times for schedule accuracy.

#23 Gateway Commerce Center Shuttle: Discontinue route due to low ridership. Service still available on the #20 Granite City-Pontoon Beach. 3

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

Mr. Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant

Mr. Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant and Grill has been selected as the December 2022 RiverBend Growth Association Small Business of the Month award recipient.

At 119 Eastgate Plaza in East Alton, one of several establishments comprising the city’s Eastgate Plaza Shopping Center, Mr. Pancho’s is owned by David and Luz Sanchez.

The Sanchezes have been in the service industry and restaurant ownership for over 20 years. They have spent the last three of those years at Eastgate Plaza, offering a full dining menu full of traditional Mexican dishes made from authentic recipes along with a wide variety of beverage options.

Thousands of diners have come to love as much as the Sanchezes love the people who have dined with them. “We all agree that our goal is to provide a safe, accepting, and an all-around good place to eat and drink,” said restaurant spokesperson Taylor Whitehead. “We also jump at the opportunity to help and give back at any chance possible.”

“All of our food is made from fresh meats and veggies,” Whitehead added. “The recipes are personal and original, and we excel in a good margarita.”

Once serving customers from a smaller and more subdued location, Mr. Pancho’s has been able to add more dining space with its patio and party room at its location now in the plaza. “Opening the back patio and party room opened us up to the opportunity of offering a more comfortable seating arrangement and faster service,” Whitehead noted.

Some of the more challenging hurdles the Sanchezes have faced came with the COVID pandemic. “Working through staff turnovers, as restaurants often do, when the pandemic hit and public dining became nearly extinct, many of our kitchen and front-end employees ended up out of work,” said Whitehead.

“When we reopened, we basically had to start over. COVID was hard, but we came

back stronger and ready to serve.”

With its 13-member staff, Mr. Pancho’s has also supported many fundraisers over the years, with monetary and gift card donations, and still does so today. During COVID, the restaurant also provided free or reduced-price meals to healthcare workers, children, and many others. “We simply love

to give back!” Whitehead exclaimed.

Regular dining hours are Sundays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., staying open an hour longer on Friday and Saturday nights until 10 p.m.

Mr. Pancho’s Restaurant and Grill is ready to host events or gatherings as well. The restaurant invites anyone who has an event

The RiverBend Growth Association is the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development organization for the 11 communities known as the Riverbend. For more information about the Growth Association, visit www.growthassociation. com or call (618) 467-2280.

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, Amy Roady, Kristen Ryrie, Martha Schultz, and Amy Smith.

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.

Mr. Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant 119 Eastgate Plaza, East Alton 618-216-3444 @mrpanchosmexicanrestaurantandgrill

coming up to consider their location and menu as an option and choice.

To learn more about Mr. Pancho’s Restaurant and Grill in East Alton at Eastgate Plaza, follow them on Facebook at @ mrpanchosmexicanrestaurantandgrill or call (618) 216-3444.

The team at Mr. Pancho’s includes (left to right) Taylor Whitehead, Gustavo Chipol, David Sanchez, Luz Marquez-Sanchez, Rodrigo Chipol, Raeleigh Forrester, Lilia Munoz, David Sanchez Jr., Abel Chipol, Melvin Lopez.

AdVantage Athletes sponsored by Simmons Hanly Conroy

The CM Eagles wrestling team at the inaugural Steve Bradley tournament

Kaylea Lacey attempts a free throw for Alton against O’Fallon East Alton Wood River and Southwestern competing in the Roxana Hoopsgiving tournament

Marquette Sr. Haley Rodgers

CM and Roxana face off in the Roxana Hoopsgiving tournament

Can a bankruptcy stop a foreclosure?

YES.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Can you tell me some basics you recommend for new investors?

When should I buy Life Insurance?

Can a bankruptcy stop the foreclosure?

Shari Murphy

You’ve already been struggling with bills for months. All of your income goes right back out the door as soon as you’re paid, with little or nothing left over. Then an emergency comes up and you are unable to make your house payment. The mortgage company says they will work with you, but then they return your check the following month. You feel like you get the run-around every time you call them, and then you get a letter saying that they are going to start foreclosure proceedings.

A chapter 13 bankruptcy stops a foreclosure and allows you to get caught up on your payments through a federally court ordered repayment plan. Your mortgage company will be paid the regular monthly payment and a small portion of the arrearage amount each month.

A chapter 13 bankruptcy can also allow you to discharge many unsecured debts in the process, making it even easier to pay your mortgage and keep your house – your most valuable asset.

BANKRUPTCY SHARI L. MURPHY

To be a successful investor, you need to make smart decisions and understand the local market. Enlist as much professional help as you can find, and remember that the most profitable way to invest is to buy and hold rather than to quickly flip the houses that you acquire.

Be sure you understand the Rental Laws in your area. You have to understand the requirements for the location where you’re buying your property. There are likely to be Occupancy Permit Requirements, which need to be obtained between every tenant, and you will have to submit to an inspection while your property is vacant. State and federal laws will also need to be understood and followed. This includes fair housing laws, the Illinois Landlord-Tenant Act, and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Be sure to choose the Right Property. As an investor, you’ll have many opportunities to buy in the Metro East. You need to know how to evaluate rental properties and make a good choice. The things you look for as an investor will be a lot different than what you consider as a buyer who will occupy the home.

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:

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.

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.

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.

27161 IL-3, Godfrey 618-463-8811 pmpriverbend.com

Jason Brunaugh

HELP WANTED Community Educator

Sta person to provide general domestic violence education to the community including presentations and classes. Extensive training provided. Contractual arrangements possible.

Please submit resume and three references by December 20, 2022 to PO Box 636, Alton, IL 62002