Riverbend January 2024

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Advantage to go all digital in 2024

By Nick Darr Big Z Media “Change is risky, but staying the same is even riskier.” That’s a quote from Carey Nieuwhof that hit home as we announce a significant change to the future of Big Z Media and this publication. This will be the last physically printed and mailed edition of the AdVantage newspaper. It’s a decision we’ve made after much thought, analysis, and debate.

For the record, this isn’t the end of AdVantage.

We will continue to provide much of the content that we have produced since 1986, only the delivery method is changing.

We’re going all digital in 2024 and not only will we not reduce staff, we plan on adding new team members. You’ll still be able to find great local news and sports stories, local columnists, information about local businesses, and much more at advantagenews.com.

physical publication to over 50,000 households has always been an inefficient way to distribute content, but in the last 5-10 years it’s become even more inefficient for two major reasons: The size of the audience consuming information via a physical print publication has been, is, and will continue to decline in the coming years. Combine that with the unfortunate reality

of continual increases in printing and postage costs and the print and mail distribution model graduates from inefficient to inviable.

We understand that this will be an unpopular decision for many of you, our loyal readers, but we hope that the increase in content we’ll now be able to provide will far outweigh the benefit of being able to read the physical version of the paper. On the plus side, the content you love will now be available daily instead of just once per month.

This is not a decision based on financial hardship, but one based on a vision of the future that we feel provides the best way to serve our audience and our advertisers. As mentioned, we’ll continue to provide the great content we always have online at advantagnews. com, on the radio on 1570 AM, 107.1 FM, on our music station, My Mix 94.3 FM and on our AdVantage News social media pages.

Why are we doing this?

Printing and mailing a

We’ll also be announcing several new initiatives

in the months to follow that will greatly serve our audience and the area’s small business community.

Our small businesses are the key to the success of any community growth initiatives that may be proposed and executed in the coming years, and finding the best way to connect our audience with those businesses is our company’s primary mission.

When Big Z Media purchased AdVantage in April of 2021, it was important to us that we honor and continue the great work of previous owners: Sharon McRoy and Jim Seibold, Jayne and John Simmons, and Sharon’s son, Eric McRoy. They created an incredibly important resource for our community, and we believe the decision to move to a 100% digital model allows us to continue their great work for decades to come.

Thank you for being a loyal reader of AdVantage. We hope you’ll continue to enjoy what we produce for you on a daily basis, just in a different way. 3

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85 | Coffeen November 25, 2023

arrangements by Toberman-Dean Funeral Home Glen Louis Greenwood, 85, of Coffeen, IL passed away Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 4:45pm at Montgomery Nursing & Rehab in Taylor Springs, IL. Visitation will be Friday, December 1, 2023 from 4-8pm at First Baptist Church in Hillsboro, IL. Funeral service will be Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 10am at First Baptist Church in Hillsboro, IL with burial following at Green Hill Cemetery in Van Burensburg, IL. Rev. Mike Skinner and Rev. Breck Nelson of First Baptist Church in Hillsboro, IL will officiate. Military rites will be accorded at graveside.

Mr. Greenwood was born April 24, 1938 in Coffeen, IL to Oliver & Dorothy (Myers) Greenwood, both have preceded. Graduate of Vandalia High School in Vandalia, IL he attended Eastern Illinois University and received his Bachelor of Science Degree at Greenville College, Greenville, IL and received his Elementary Education Teaching Certificate at Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, IL. He served in the United States

Army and as Presidential Honor Guard at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. Glen Married Edwina Rose Sexton at Erlanger Chapel, Chattanooga, TN on May 14, 1960. She preceded him on October 2, 2017.

He was a member of First Baptist Church in Hillsboro, IL; Hillsboro Jaycees; Lions Club in Coffeen, IL; Secretary for the Coffeen Fire Department for 20 plus years; Trustee for Green Hill Cemetery, Van Burensburg, IL. He loved Gospel Music and loved sports especially St. Louis Cardinals and Illini Sports.

Glen is survived by one son, Rev. Dr. Glen (wife Laura) Greenwood, II, Alton, IL and one daughter, Theresa Greenwood, Centralia, IL and grandchildren, Cathryn (husband, Micael) Zerkel, Alton, IL and Rachel (husband Jack) Legg, Springfield, OH. He was preceded by his parents, wife and two sisters, Evelyn Greenwood in infancy and Lila Walters.

Memorials are recommended to Green Hill Cemetery in Van Burensburg, IL.

Lucille Graham

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95 | Granite City November 2, 2023 arrangements by Yarber Mortuary Lucille Eline Graham was born November 18, 1927, in Eminence, Missouri, to Roy Elmer and Pauline Marie (Lawson) Graham. She went to be with God on November 2, 2023.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Pauline Graham, and longtime friend, Barb Delong.

Lucille is survived by her friend of over 65 years, Gaye Flood.

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Lou, as she was known to her friends, spent her early years in Eminence, Missouri. She moved to the St. Louis area, where she became a member of City Temple Assembly of God Church in Venice, Illinois.

She then moved to Granite City and had been a member of City Temple for over 70 years. Lou was a devout

Christian and active in both of her churches. She was part of the Pastoral staff at both City Temple and Journey Assembly of God. She loved to teach about the Word of God and taught Bible Study classes over the years. Lou worked many different jobs throughout her lifetime, with most of those years being at P & S Amusement. She retired to Bradenton, Florida, in 1997 and became a member of Journey Assembly of God. She returned to Granite City and City Temple in 2010.

Graveside services were held at 2pm on November 22, 2023, at New Eminence Cemetery in Eminence, Missouri, under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Eminence. Condolences may be expressed at www. yarbermortuary.com.

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

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Rotarians toast Art Williams for his 100th birthday Alton Godfrey Rotary celebrated the 100th birthday of fellow member Art Williams at the club’s regular meeting held Monday at Gentelin’s on Broadway. As part of the celebration, proclamations from the Illinois House of Representative, the Village of Godfrey, the City of Alton and Alton Godfrey Rotary were read naming Nov. 20, Williams 2023 as “Art Williams Day.” During the ceremony, the club’s president, Jim Claywell, presented Williams with a poster-sized birthday card and a framed copy of the proclamations.

Williams said he was surprised by the celebration.

“I never expected this,” he said. “I never expected to be 100 (years old). I’m a little embarrassed.”

Williams spoke of growing up in rural Oregon, stating that although it was ‘backwoodsy,’ it was a great way to grow up. “Nobody locked their doors so that if anyone needed help, you could get to them,” he said.

Williams was born on Dec. 3, 1923. He attended Oregon State University from 1941 – 1942 when he volunteered for military service. Williams explained that those on the west coast felt comfortable during the war, as it seemed unlikely that they would be invaded by Germany.

“But when the Japanese invaded Pearl Harbor, things changed, because we felt that the Japanese could invade California at any time. It was a big concern,” Williams said.

“Of the 12 students living at the rooming house where I stayed, 10 enlisted in the military.”

Williams served in the Pacific and New Guinea during WWII from 1942 to 1945. The military then sent him to West Point Academy for a year, after which he returned to Oregon State University where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering. Williams then commenced a life-long career with Shell Oil Company.

Williams and his wife Joyce, who passed away in 1989, raised four children while living in 19 different homes from New York to California before retiring from his position as plant manager of Shell Oil Company Wood River refinery in 1982. He continues to actively serve the community by working with many organizations. He has served on the board of Alton Memorial Hospital for 39 years, and he volunteers with Alton Godfrey Rotary with which, for 26 years, he has actively worked on the clubs many community projects. Williams has personally performed the electrical hook-up for the Alton Godfrey Rotary Christmas tree at Lincoln Douglas Square nearly every year since joining the club. 3

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AltonWorks proposes new vision for Riverfront Americans love their national parks. According to the National Park Service, about 312 million people visited national parks in 2022, a 5% increase from 2021. National parks bring in billions of dollars of economic activity to regions across the country for small and large cities alike.

During the Alton Riverfront Commission Meeting, representatives from AltonWorks unveiled a longterm vision to create the Great Rivers National Park to help transform Alton and highlight the region’s crown jewel: The Mississippi River.

This proposal is aligned with the founding principles of AltonWorks which include livability, environmental stewardship, social justice, and inclusivity in rebuilding communities for optimum social impact.

“Alton has many incredible assets,” said John Simmons, CEO of AltonWorks. “The combination of the riverfront, the Clark Bridge, Marina and the historic downtown area makes the perfect setting for a national park and could attract tens of millions of dollars each year to the city, state and regional economies. To help Alton reach its potential, we want to attract and retain people of all ages to live, work and play here.

Together, we have the ability to transform the riverfront into a national treasure and family-friendly outdoor recreation destination.”

appointed by the mayor with advice and consent of the city council.

5. Activate the great lumber site for family fun 6. Build a floodproof bike park for all ages

AltonWorks plan recommendations include:

7. Upgrade amenities at Russell Commons Park

1. Improve cruise ship mooring area and amenities

8. Make the amphitheater great for artists and guests

2. Make updates to the marina 3. Add concrete boardwalk along the riverfront

The Alton Riverfront Commission helps guide planning for Alton’s Mississippi River frontage.

Commission members are

Region as a national treasure and destination, building on the large federal property and presence in the area.

4. Connect the riverfront and downtown with a bike trail

The Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois Rivers are tremendous natural, cultural, and national assets. A national park would optimize the Great Rivers Confluence

Currently the Great Rivers Confluence Region is managed by 20 federal, state and local jurisdictions.

Bringing these lands together under the National Park Service would provide consistent trails and amenities and leverage park marketing, maintenance and funding for a 135,000acre, 144-mile designated recreation park.

Alton is home to two Federal Wildlife Refuges, a large federal footprint of actively managed Army Corps of Engineers’ land, and the largest State Park in Illinois at Pere Marquette near the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. In addition, the National Great Rivers Museum, The Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, the National Lewis and Clark Trail, and the Mississippi River National Water Trail are located here.

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Because of this Federal presence and the outsize impact of the Mississippi River on American culture, history, and economic development, AltonWorks believes the idea of a national park is worth exploring.

Examples of similar national parks include New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia and the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area in Minnesota. 3

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© Copyright 2023 Big Z Media. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of Big Z Media is prohibited. Columns and other submitted content are the sole creation of the author and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of this newspaper.

JANUARY 2024 | 3

More information about the RiverBend Growth Association and all these events can be found at growthassociation.com

john KELLER

Reservations are requested for all of our events so that we have adequate accommodations for our members. Call us at 618-467-2280.

FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

Lauritzen’s Country Financial 2720 Gerson Ave, Godfrey 618-466-2128 countryfinancial.com/ jeff.lauritzen

Lauritzen’s Country Financial numerous opportunities to “give back” to the community. “One way we give back with Country Financial is through Operation Helping Heroes,” notes Lauritzen.

“Our firm regularly donates funds to the Godfrey Fire Department, the Alton Police Department and most recently St. Ambrose Catholic School and Gilson Brown Elementary School for their reading programs. We also support many of the RiverBend Growth Association events as well as the North Alton-Godfrey Business Council.”

The RiverBend Growth Association has selected Jeff Lauritzen’s Country Financial office as its December 2023 Small Business of the Month award recipient.

Located in Godfrey, the insurance and financial services firm has been in business locally under the sage leadership of Financial Representative Jeff Lauritzen now for 12 years. The local office has two employees.

“Our vision is to be the premiere insurance and financial services provider in the Riverbend, protecting clients from the unknown and helping them plan their futures,” says Lauritzen.

“We are on a mission to build a business of long-term core clients, based on integrity and responsiveness, while also being an active contributor throughout the Riverbend.”

Over the past five years, the local Country Financial office on Gerson

Keri Hill, Jeff Lauritzen, Eve Williamson Avenue in Godfrey was purchased in late 2019, with building renovations completed in Fall 2021.

Office staff moved into the location on Jan. 1, 2022. The site now boasts complete interior updates

along with all new plumbing, HVAC and electrical, along with new signage, a maintained parking lot, and an accessibility ramp.

The office team participates in

Lauritzen is also active in other local organizations including the United Way of Southwestern Illinois, East End Improvement Association, St. Ambrose Catholic Church and its finance council, as well as serving as a board member and a finance committee member for Asbury Village.

Prior to joining Country Financial,

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Lauritzen spent nearly two decades as a commercial lender with Regions Bank’s footprint in the Riverbend. He has been a member of the Growth Association for 20 years, serving on its board, in leadership roles, and as a mentor with the Young Adults Committee.

Receiving his Chartered Financial Consultant designation from The American College, Lauritzen completed his bachelor’s degree in ag business at Illinois State University prior to receiving his MBA from Northern Illinois University. He and his wife reside in Godfrey and have two daughters.

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, Vickie Hopkins, Adrianna Lock, Amy Roady, Martha Schultz, and Amy Smith.

NEW MEMBERS: 99 Creatives

Katy Martin, CEO 200 W. 3rd Street, Suite 401, Alton 618-975-5255 ninetyninecreatives.com Martin Coaching and Consulting

Katy Martin, Owner 200 W. 3rd Street, Suite 401, Alton 618-226-5316 • 618-975-5255 katyemartin.com OSF HealthCare Rehabilitation Comfort Cuisine The RiverBend Growth Association (RBGA) facilitated a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Comfort Cuisine, a takeaway eatery. The RBGA team was joined by Alton Mayor Goins, RBGA Ambassadors and members, and family and friends.

in my family. And now, cooking for you is my business!”

Patty’s Petals

Lolly’s passion is spending a lot of time searching for, and trying out, new recipes.

Comfort Cuisine is owned by Lori Bregenzer, but you can call her Lolly. All you need to know about Lolly is that she loves food — thinking about food, cooking food, and talking about food.

Choices at Comfort Cuisine are heat & eat meals (all meals are lovingly hand-crafted by Lolly with the menu changing weekly), Lolly’s Lunchbox (take-away lunch specials such as soups, salads, and sandwiches), housemade treats for just for your pups, special meals designed with your kiddos in mind, and scrumptious weekly dessert items.

Says Lolly, “I’ve always said that the kitchen is my happy place.

My husband and I have enjoyed cooking together for nearly 30 years - socializing with our family and friends. Before that, I learned to cook from the amazing women

Stop by Comfort Cuisine’s TakeAway Eatery at 4 East Broadway in Alton to see what Lolly is cooking up next. Hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 11am- 6:30pm and Friday and Saturday from 11am - 1:30pm.

The RiverBend Growth Association (RBGA) facilitated a grand opening and ribboncutting ceremony to celebrate the storefront opening of Patty’s Petals. The floral shop opened for business in September 2023 and is owned by Patty Seymour.

Team members are Missy Seymour, Tara, Amanda and the granddaughters (Hannah, Ali, Alia, and Ava) help out occasionally. The RBGA team was joined by RBGA Ambassadors and members, and family and friends.

Patty’s Petals has been a familyowned and operated business in Godfrey since 2011. They specialize in fresh and silk wedding designs but also offer prom, homecoming, baby and

bridal showers, and home decor floral creations.

All fresh flowers include free local delivery to ensure your flowers are hydrated and fresh for your big day. Patty started working with flowers in 1971 under the guidance of designers John Lock and Toi Warner at Lock’s Floral in Alton IL. At Patty’s Petals, they pride themselves on creating floral designs that will complement your big day.

Patty’s Petals is located at 3104 A Godfrey Road in Godfrey. The store can be reached at 618304-4100 or find them online at pattyspetalsgodfrey.com.

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JANUARY 2024 | 5

Word Scrambler 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!

DIFFICULTY H

Go Figure

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.

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.

TRIVIA TEST

By Fifi Rodriguez 1. GEOGRAPHY: Which famous highway that stretches across the United States is sometimes known as the Will Rogers Highway?

2. MUSIC: Which country did the pop group ABBA come from?

3. TELEVISION: What article made Frosty the Snowman come to life in the popular TV special?

4. FOOD & DRINK: What is colcannon?

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5. U.S. STATES: Which state is home to the Volcanoes National Park?

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6. MOVIES: What is the name of the acapella group that Anna Kendrick joins on “Pitch Perfect”?

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7. INVENTIONS: Who invented the Barbie doll in 1959?

8. MATH: How many tablespoons are in 1 cup?

9. LITERATURE: What is the title of the sequel to “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”

by Roald Dahl?

10. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which president is the only one to fail to gain his party’s nomination for a second term?

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A dozen artists will perform their favorite country love songs of all time as a special Valentine’s treat from ALT, and ALT’s volunteers will be whipping up some libations and treats that just say “Love Ya’ll!”

Saturday, February 10th, 2024 7:30pm

Sunday, February 11th, 2024 2:00pm

Tickets $25 Call 618-462-3205 or visit www.altonlittletheater.org for tickets 6 | JANUARY 2024

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Even Exchange

by Donna Pettman

Each numbered row contains two clues and two 6-letter answers. The two answers differ from each other by only one letter, which has already been inserted. For example, if you exchange the A from MASTER for an I, you get MISTER. Do not change the order of the letters.

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I just can’t stop listening to 1970s rock bands.

I may be developing OC/DC. In 1665 Sir Isaac Newton discovered gravity.

Everything went downhill from there.

Today’s Special

by Mike Ostresh

There where a couple of pigeons sitting on my fence earlier, so I shouted at them and they both fell off and died.

I didn’t know you could kill two birds with one’s tone.

The right options for renters.

Call me for a quote today

I seem to have misplaced my glasses.

I’ll see if I can find them.

Renee Manley Agent

Dad

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Jokes.

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Indemnity Company Bloomington, IL

FLASHBACK

By Mick Harper 1. Who sang the theme song for the TV series “Secret Agent Man” in the 1960s?

Sudoku

Must present coupon.

Expires 12/31/23.

2. What was the Hully Gully?

4. Name Patti LaBelle’s first No. 1 single.

Don’t waste my time chasing sleep.”

3. Who released “Blue Suede Shoes” before Elvis Presley did?

5. Name the song that contains this lyric: “Late at night I’m still listening,

(answers in puzzle solutions)

DIFFICULTY H H H

Word Search

WORDS FOUND IN “SEASON’S GREETINGS”

State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas Richardson, TX

See puzzle solutions

15

What’s The Difference?

Find at least six differences in details between panels.

Find the listed words in the diagram. They run forward, backward, up, down and diagonally. Unlisted hint: An afternoon nap

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.

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JANUARY 2024 | 7

SECRET DINER

By Bill Roseberry

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“What an amazing place! We had a great dinner on a Friday in Lent.

We had plenty of choices on the menu it was delicious” Michelle M.

“First time here, we will be back! Great food!

Excellent service! And live music!” Mary Pat A.

GulfShoresRestaurantAndGrill.com menu SINCE

1931

Open 7 days

650-9109

behind the Buffalo Wild Wings

It’s easy to find, sitting right along a main street through this community. You’ll see the sidewalk leading to the entrance and a small sign in front, displaying the place’s name. The paved parking lot is right next to the building and wraps around behind it as well. The restaurant actually shares the parking lot with another eating establishment on the adjacent side. Spaces are marked to notify you which spots are for which restaurant.

Walk around to the sidewalk in front and enter this establishment through a small vestibule and a host or hostess will greet you and lead you to your seat. There is a counter to the right when you immediately enter and the kitchen is located behind it. The large dining room is to the left.

“The service and food are excellent! Had the kitchen sink, oysters, and gator bites. Highly recommend!”

Laurie P.

215 Harvard Drive, Edwardsville 618

In northwestern Madison County you’ll find this joint specializing in authentic Mexican food, with a focus on street tacos and they’re doing it up right.

Dine In | Cary Out | Catering | Daily Specials | Live Music

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Big wooden tables fill the middle of the spacious dining area, with high-backed, padded wooden booths along the outside wall.

On the back wall is a brick fireplace with a huge liquor display above it, mostly featuring tequila. The walls are painted red, yellow and blue and there is Mexican themed artwork hanging on those wells, including some large sombreros. A hefty swordfish is mounted on one wall and the ceilings are low and dark colored.

Overall:

I was stoked to get a gander at the menu due to some of the traditional options

Service: Food:

Quickly I settled on three varieties of their street tacos. I chose chicken and chorizo, the lengua taco and finally, the steak, bacon and sausage taco. If you’re not familiar with what lengua is, it is braised beef tongue.

I’ll start with that tongue taco. It was so super tender, with the tongue being pure muscle. It melted in my mouth with an almost stew meat taste. There was a hearty flavor, but it was really driven more by the radish and chopped onion included in the ingredients.

It also featured cilantro and lime juice and for an upcharge, I added grilled cheese to my tacos. They encrust the cheese on the small corn tortilla, which adds some sweetness and a slight crunch to the whole experience.

Next I went with the chicken and chorizo taco. The chicken drove the flavor over the chorizo, which was surprising to me since the Member SIPC chorizo normally adds a little spike in spice. It was heaping with meat and everything was tender and delicious. That crusted cheese, the radish and lime juice all added rewarding

> edwardjones.com |

All of the decorations and colors make for a warm, relaxing ambiance.

Cleanliness:

I’d heard were available here and I wasn’t disappointed. With a focus on tacos I decided to go that route on my visit.

Price: Any idea of the name of this restaurant?

Check the puzzle solutions to see if you are right. flavor punches, too.

> edwar

My final taco was the steak, bacon and sausage. It offered an absolute meat overload, as it was just falling out of the small corn tortilla. The bacon steered the taste, while also adding a crisp crunch to team with that delectable crusted cheese. The steak and sausage were plentiful and succulent, but really just part of the background Of course there were chips and salsa provided with the meal and the server kept them coming when needed.

> edwardjones.com | M

There were plenty of other options on the menu, too.

You can order off of the regular taco menu to get crunchy tacos. There are also burritos, quesadillas, burgers, steaks, salads and specialty entrees available. 3

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Alton Memorial OB units earn grant to help care of new mothers Thanks to a successful grant request, the Women’s Health and Childbirth Center at Alton Memorial Hospital received more than $73,000 this year to help make sure the numerous area pregnant and postpartum women facing health inequities due to social and economic factors receive the help they need.

These funds allowed the hospital to hire an additional peer recovery specialist to focus exclusively on the needs of the Women’s Health and Childbirth Center.

Most importantly, the funds provide universal screening for Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) such as mental health issues, substance abuse, food insecurity and housing instability.

Kathy Alford-Spitze is the peer recovery specialist added for this position.

“I want to work with women during their pregnancy and afterwards because it is something that hits close to home for me,” Kathy said.

“As a mom of two biological

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children and three adopted children, there were a lot of times that I needed help and I really was unsure where to turn. I do not want anyone else to feel that way or feel as though they are alone.

complications. Substance use disorders among pregnant women are linked to preterm birth, low birth weight, and higher rates of NICU admissions.

“I want them to know that they have a place to turn to when they need a bit of direction, and that it is okay to ask for help when it is needed,” Kathy said.

“Moms care and look out for everybody else, so someone needs to care and look out for the moms.”

“I want to be able to help connect people to the resources that they need, so hopefully their lives can be a little bit easier during an already hectic time of adding a new addition to the family.”

Based on the results of the screenings, Kathy provides interventions and care coordination as needed.

“The peer recovery specialist follows each patient for a minimum of three months and up to a year, depending upon the patients’ needs and clinical presentation, providing support, case management, linkage to treatment and other community resources,” said Meredith Parker, manager of Clinical Services for the AMH Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine.

“The more you know about your patients, the better you

Part of the team involved in getting the grant at Alton Memorial Hospital includes, from left, Jessica Mossman, manager of the Women’s Health and Childbirth Center, Meredith Parker, manager of Clinical Services for the AMH Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine; Dr. Christine Taylor, OB/GYN for Alton OB/GYN Associates and a member of the AMH medical staff; and Renee Strowmatt, educator for the WHCC. can treat them.”

each year for up to 18 years.

The main goal of the funds is to “address and alleviate some of the effects Madison County has experienced related to the opioid epidemic,” said Parker, who added that there is an option to reapply for these funds

According to the Illinois Perinatal Quality Collaborative (ILPQC), overdose is the leading cause of maternal death in Illinois. Between 2008 and 2017, pregnancy-associated deaths from opioid

poisoning increased tenfold.

Mothers with substance use disorders often have inadequate prenatal care, attend fewer prenatal visits, have poorer nutrition compared to those without substance use disorders, and have higher rates of birth

“We know significant racial disparities in health outcomes exist for our pregnant and postpartum patients,” said Renee Strowmatt, educator for Alton Memorial Hospital’s Women’s Health and Childbirth Center. “This grant helps streamline the process of obtaining Social Determinants of Health in our birthing patients, which reduces maternal disparities, promotes equity, and improves the overall outcomes of our patients and their babies.” 3

JANUARY 2024 | 9

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OF THE

TOWN

By Mark Ellebracht

With this being the final installment of Talk of the Town, at least in print, please follow our website AdvantageNews.com where I’m supposed to write even more exciting material each month!

2 Since 193

our post-Applefest clean up and soon realized the wood that was burned was indeed the home for baby Jesus.

I called back saying I may have remembered seeing what we thought were old pallets on the way to the burn pile. The deed was done, the job was taken care of, the manger was a pile of ashes by this point.

Anyway, stop me if you’ve heard this before. I don’t think it’ll be as popular as “Twas the Night Before Christmas,” but I’ll give it a shot.

Based on true events…

2400 E. Broadway Alton 618.462.5431

Have you seen the Manger?

This time of year, I hearken back to simpler times. When people could come together, host a fundraiser and community event, then return to their daily responsibilities. We called the event “Applefest” at my church and at its conclusion one particular year, the committee was cleaning out a shed and found what appeared to be old 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.

92 Years

7 Since 194

I (as co-chair) asked a trusted committee member to take the “pallets”

home and burn them. (It felt very much like the Sopranos, asking someone to take care of something for me. Not really caring how it was done, but knowing it would get done).

The Applefest was usually the end of September, so around the end of November that same year, I got a call from a very nice church employee (my mother) 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?”

(I was deflecting responsibility because there’s always another shed)

So that year, not only did baby Jesus not have room in the inn, I had someone burn down his house to make more room for the Dime Toss and face painting supplies.

Thankfully, a kind and talented parishioner built a new manger the following year and they don’t tell me where they keep it, just in case.

Merry Christmas and happy new year to all! 3 Mark Ellebracht has been news director for WBGZ Radio in Alton for more than 25 years, is co-host of The Big Z Morning Show and hosts Let’s Talk weekdays from 10am-noon on 107.1FM/1570AM.

After hanging up, I took time to retrace

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Holiday Greetings s y a d i l o H y p p Ha from all of us at

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Holiday Greetings Jesus is the reason for the season

Thank you to our customers & employees for supporting us this year!

We send the best of holiday wishes and love from our house to your house.

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JANUARY 2024 | 13

BEYOND THE

FRAY

By Sam Stemm How do you do with deadlines? Do you get way out in front of them so as to avoid the stress of the approaching deadline? Or do you end up racing at the last possible moment to beat the deadline?

For most of my existence I’ve been in the latter category.

It started when I was a kid.

Dad drove us to school each day on his way to work. He

left the house at the exact same time each morning and we all knew that we had to be up and dressed, have our breakfast, and gather our belongings by the appointed time or we’d be walking to school. Dad had his schedule and there was no accommodation for a tardy child.

Well, more often than not I was sprinting out the door

HARTFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT 143 W HAWTHORNE HARTFORD IL BUDGET & APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE 2023-2024

trying to reach the car before Dad pulled away from the curb. Hey, there was no sense wasting time sitting around waiting for him. I used every possible moment to my benefit and as long as I was in the car before it departed I was golden.

And so it went with school work. A term paper due in two weeks? No sweat.

Plenty of time for research, rough drafts, and the accumulation of the required

footnotes, and finally typing the double-spaced final copy. Until there wasn’t enough time. Thus, the many “one night wonders.” But what I learned is that I often did my best work when up against the deadline, which I think was a function of not overthinking everything.

Over the years there was

many an April 15 when I’d get busy with my tax return late in the evening. And then the mad dash to the post office to beat the midnight postmark deadline.

PART I CASH ON HAND Total Cash on Hand at Beginning of Fiscal Year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$392,123.00

I often had good intentions.

When a deadline was approaching I’d vow to get a jump on it. But reality set in and before I knew it there was the deadline staring me in the face with its unceasing call to action, often with more than a modicum of attached stress.

PART II ESTIMATED RECEIPTS Receipt from Tax Levy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $121,650.00 Fines and Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 750.00 Replacement Tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23,000.00 Interest income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,000.00 Other Receipts (Per Capita, E Rate, etc.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19,000.00 Total Estimated Receipts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $165,500.00 PART III ESTIMATED EXPENDITURES

Personal Expenses: Salaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$115,000.00 Social Security Tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,400.00 Health/Life Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5,300.00 IMRF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,700.00 Operating Expenses: Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20,000.00 Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,000.00 Postage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 400.00 Telephone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3,000.00 Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17,000.00 Memberships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250.00 Professional Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100.00 Professional Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,500.00 Equipment & Maintenance Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8,00.00 Building Repairs & Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20,000.00 Library Promotion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,700.00 Mileage/Conferences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,900.00 Books. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8,400.00 Periodicals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 750.00 Activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,000.00 Projects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25,000.00 Equipment & Computer Usage Fees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,500.00 Audio-Visual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,000.00 General Contingencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,000.00 Total Corporate Fund Expenditures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $272,900.00 PART IV ESTIMATED TO BE ON HAND Total Estimated Cash on Hand at End of Fiscal Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $307,175.00 CERTIFICATE

STATE OF ILLINOIS ) COUNTY OF MADISON )

I, Deanna Wreath, Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the Hartford Public Library District, do hereby certify that the attached hereto is a true and correct copy of the Hartford Public Library District Budget and Appropriation Ordinance.

IN WITNESS WHEREFORE, I have here unto set my official signature below to 16th day of November, 2023.

Deanna Wreath Secretary of the Board of Trustees Hartford Public Library District

Drivers licenses expire on your birthday. I can’t count the number of birthdays I spent at the DMV making sure my license didn’t expire. Oh, and the last day of the month each year running to get my license plate sticker to replace the expiring one.

Prepare for the future with confidence We’re here to help you work toward your financial goals.

Jeffrey A. Lauritzen, ChFC®, RICP® Financial Representative 2720 Gerson Ave Godfrey, IL 62035-3312 www.countryfinancial.com/jeff.lauritzen jeff.lauritzen@countryfinancial.com (618)466-2128 Investment management, retirement, trust and planning services provided

by COUNTRY Trust Bank®.

Registered broker/dealer offering securities products: COUNTRY® Capital Management Company, 1705 Towanda Ave, PO Box 2222, Bloomington, IL 617022222, 1-866-551-0060. Member FINRA. 0921-072MM_21316-12/22/2022

The good news is that as I’ve aged I’ve done a better job of beating the deadlines. It’s probably due to the voice of experience reminding me that I don’t need all that stress. It feels really rewarding to beat the deadline by days or even weeks. Chalk a victory up for me and give a loss to the deadline.

While I do better with deadlines these days, my old habits return from time to time. It’s less than two weeks before Christmas and I’m still contemplating when to start my shopping. Too much more contemplation and I’ll be up against the deadline.

Oh, and this column. My editor notifies me weeks in advance of the deadline, but here I am up against it. No more time to come up with a really interesting topic. Just gotta pump out another “one night wonder.” I’ll let you be the judge as to whether I do some of my best work with a deadline looming. 3 Sam Stemm is the former owner of Big Z Media and can still be heard each Friday from 10am-noon during Let’s Talk Special Edition on WBGZ 107.1FM/1570AM.

Alton Little Theater presents...

By Jan de Hartog | Directed by Kevin Frakes

THE

FOUR POSTER

Produced with Permission from Concord Theatricals

Evenings 7:30pm | Matinees 2:00pm | Box Office: (618) 462-3205 Monday - Friday | 10am to 2pm | www.altonlittletheater.org 14 | JANUARY 2024

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PUZZLE SOLUTIONS Crossword

David Dresch, a math teacher at Alton High School, has been named as a recipient of the 2023 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award. Emerson Electric Company, located in St. Louis, sponsors the annual nomination and awards program to recognize exemplary teachers across the region.

Sudoku

Dresch began his teaching career at Alton High School in 2006. He has a renowned reputation for being an outstanding teacher with a passion for mathematics. He has also provided district wide math support through programs designed to assist K-12 teachers with aligning math instruction to state standards and developing systems for common assessments. Dresch is also known for his direct support of students well beyond classroom hours through tutoring and other efforts.

Word Search

Go Figure

What’s the Difference?

1. Tassel is shorter.

2. Cuffs are missing.

3. Baseball bat is missing.

4. Arm is moved.

5. Sign is different.

6. Antenna is missing.

Word Scrambler 1. Remand 2. Intend

3. Lodge 4. Attest

Today’s Word: MISTLETOE

CryptoQuip When you always get the uncontrollable urge to climb mountains, I’d say you’re drawn to scale.

Even Exchange 1. Paper, Paler 2. Locket, Locker 3. Witch, Watch 4. Ranger, Ringer 5. Willa, Wilma

Dresch receives 2023 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award

6. Gaggle, Giggle 7. Child, Chill 8. Nanny, Nancy 9. Marlin, Merlin 10. Squash, Squish

Trivia Test 1. Route 66.

2. Sweden.

3. A magic hat.

4. Mashed potatoes and cabbage.

5. Hawaii.

6. The Barden Bellas.

7. Ruth Handler.

8. 16.

9. “Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator.”

10. Franklin Pierce.

Flashback 1. Johnny Rivers. The show was the American version of the British “Danger Man” series.

2. A dance that started in Florida in 1959.

It was a line dance with the steps being called out. The dance has been seen several times, including in “The Blues Brothers” film and a “Roseanne” episode.

3. Carl Perkins, who both wrote and released the song in 1956. His version went to No. 1 on the charts. Presley’s did not even hit the Top 10.

4. “If Only You Knew,” in 1983, on the R&B charts. It only hit No. 46 on the Hot 100 chart.

5. “Pilot of the Airwaves,” by Charlie Dore in 1979. This was the final song played in 1990 by Radio Caroline, an unlicensed, illegal radio station that broadcast from the open seas. It was named for Caroline Kennedy, daughter of President John F. Kennedy.

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According to Dr. Kristie Baumgartner, Alton Superintendent, Dresch’s recognition is well deserved.

“David is a remarkable teacher and colleague. He is such a critical member of our math team at Alton High.

His students often share how much they appreciate his teaching style as well as the extra effort he gives to each student individually in supporting their success.”

Dresch, a graduate of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, was both humble and appreciative in receiving word that he was an Emerson Award recipient.

“I’ve always tried to develop relationships with my students which allows me to help see where their (math) strengths and weaknesses are when they enter AHS as freshmen. I also enjoy helping students navigate the transition from 8th to 9th grade and then watching their progress.” Dresch also complimented his math teaching colleagues at Alton High. “It has been a great 18 years working here in the math department. There is a core team and strong leadership in our department and it is so supportive and has always acted as a foundation for what we do.”

All God’s Children gives footwear to Granite City kids

By Brad Choat Big Z Media More than 130 students from the Granite City School District spent Dec. 8 at Alton Square mall, getting free pairs of shoes and socks. The charity “All God’s Children Shall Have Shoes” handles this yearly event for school children inneed throughout the region.

Volunteers helped the students get the correct sizes and pick out their new shoes and socks at Famous Footwear. The Cookie Factory provided each child a treat.

All God’s Children administrator Sue Wooden said the event really touches the hearts of all who take part. She said they do it so kids can have something new for themselves. The charity dates back to the late 1960s when some Illinois Bell utility workers noticed kids walking home from school with holes in their shoes.

That’s when they began collecting money to buy them new ones.

Volunteers with “AllIf God’s Children Shall Have Shoes” help kids find the right size. [photo

by Granite City School District] you are interested in donating or becoming a volunteer for All God’s Children, email Sue Wooden at sue.kidsshoes@ gmail.com. 3

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Recipients are selected by the chief administrators of their school districts or employing educational institutions. The employing educational institution must be located in the St. Louis metropolitan area, which is defined to include: (in Missouri) Franklin County, Jefferson County, St. Charles County, St. Louis City and St. Louis County; and (in Illinois) Jersey County, Madison County, Monroe County and St. Clair County. 3

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YWCA seeks nominations for Women of Distinction YWCA Southwestern Illinois Women of Distinction is pleased to announce that the nomination period for the Women of Distinction program is now open.

Each year, some of the most influential women have been honored at the YWCA’s Women of Distinction (WOD) celebration. Honorees are women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and achievement in their professional, civic and personal lives. The WOD Academy has grown into a dynamic and diverse group of over 300 women representing a wide range

of accomplishments and contributions.

YWCA is requesting the public’s help in soliciting nominations for 2024 Women of Distinction.

The community is urged to nominate exceptional women who create real change in our communities.

Nomination packets are available now at YWCA, online at ywcaswil.org, via email at info@ywcaswil.org, or by calling 618-465-7774.

Nomination deadline for the 2024 Women of Distinction program is Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024 no later than 5pm or postmarked by 5pm January 9, 2024.

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HESTON ON

LIFE

By Pat Heston Christmas tree I can’t think of anything more filled with memories than a Christmas tree.

For me, it starts with the smell of a live tree on a stand in a house. That unmistakable whiff of Pine, Spruce, Fir, or Cypress that transports me to places and Christmases past. Smell is the ultimate time warp to me, transporting back to childhood, to moments and memories that defined and shaped my youth.

Suddenly, I am young again, at home again, with grandparents and parents and siblings again. I am always mesmerized by the smells, sounds, and sights from memory reawakened, as vivid in the moment as when first — or last — experienced.

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Smell enables me to see again — the big lighted bulbs on the branches (the bubble lights were my favorite), the ornaments that I helped hang, some of which I helped make, and the shiny, silvery tinsel that was, at least in our family, so gloriously overdone.

Sometimes there were strings of popcorn and cranberries, and always a big, bold star at the highest point.

I loved then, and still love nothing more than sitting alone late at night in a silent living room, all lights extinguished save those on the tree, and getting lost in the magic and memories which are so close they brush against me and rise within me.

Gone are my dad’s old ornaments of the three wisemen on camelback as well as my mom’s hanging, glittering ice sickles.

All of them, and others, surrendered to breakage or carelessness or children or grandchildren or time—that terrible, wonderful thing that time does. The oldest ornaments now announce “Baby’s First Christmas” or take the shape of wooden rectangles decorated in macaroni and rickrack from when children were young.

About all that actually remains of those childhood Christmases from long ago are the memories. But that is enough to keep me warm.

If I am silent and reflective, alone in a dark room with a lighted tree, I can still hear my father’s deep bass voice singing gently, solemnly, beautifully, and in the original German, “Stille Nacht” (“Silent Night”). I can, in truth, actually hear his voice again, as if he

were sitting across from me still, and I can ride it into profound silence and contemplation, and into a warmth otherwise unexplainable on a cold and dark December night.

Christmas Tree memories are as unforgettable as a first hug or a first kiss or a first “I love you” — and equally sweet.

I can still see the presents under the tree from those early Christmases — even remember a few of them — but, in retrospect, the packages, all done up in paper, ribbons, and bows, were incidental. They are not where my memories land and linger. As wonderful as it was to get the basketball goal or the Kiddylac, even then they faded into the background of the heart and hope of Christmas.

A Christmas tree keeps alive what keeps you alive … even in the dead of winter. 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.

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V I L L A G E O F B E T H A LT O

By Gary Bost

Bethalto Mayor

Here’s what’s going on in Bethalto As the end of 2023 approaches, the Village is looking back on a great year and looking forward to what’s in store in 2024.

This year’s Christmas Village and the Victorian Christmas Walk were huge successes. Bethalto Spirit does a wonderful job each year with these events, along with our Music in the Park, Farmers Markets, and maintaining our beautiful Bethalto Arboretum. I’d like to take a moment to thank everyone involved for their hard work and dedication to the Village—it does not go unnoticed and helps make Bethalto the great place it is to live and raise a family.

Thanks for all you do, Bethalto Spirit!

You’ve likely noticed the construction along Erwin Plegge Boulevard— affectionately known by locals as “the Expressway”.

Crews are in the midst of construction of our multi-

use pathway that will run from Ashbrook Street to Old Bethalto Road, which will be an exciting addition to our community. Eventually, the pathway will connect into Central Park, through the Arboretum, and (hopefully) along Moreland Road to meet the MCT trails in Wanda. We know that construction can be frustrating and at times unsightly, but once complete this will be an asset we will all enjoy. We appreciate your patience and understanding as construction continues.

One thing that I’m most proud of about Bethalto is our residents’ care and concern for others. As many of you know, Lucie Hale, 7-year-old daughter of our Deputy Police Chief Scott Hale and his wife Erica, has been battling a seizure disorder since early summer and has had an extensive ICU and hospital stay. As I write this, Lucie has spent over 160 days in a St. Louis hospital. She has bravely endured heavy

medications, anti-seizure drugs, brain surgery, and countless tests to determine the cause of her seizures; unfortunately, doctors still have no real answers. Her seizures continue, although she’s making progress and has shown some signs of improvement. To show our support for Lucie and the Hale family, we’ve already had several successful fundraisers. Next up is our sold-out trivia night set for Feb. 3 at the Wood River Moose. We’re seeking all kinds of raffle items and baskets for this event— anyone interested in making a donation can contact our Village Clerk, Sue Lowrance, at slowrance@ bethalto.com. Please continue to keep Lucie and the Hales in your thoughts and prayers.

Wood River Township, offers a free senior bus transportation program to anyone aged 62 and older.

The service will pick you up at your door, safely drive you to your destination (specified distances within Bethalto, Alton, Godfrey, Wood River, East Alton), and get you home quickly and efficiently, all at no cost to the rider. Just call one day in advance between 9am-11:30am to schedule a

ride; the dispatch number is 618-377-5263. The bus does not operate on holidays or in cases of inclement weather (ice or snow). The program is always seeking volunteer drivers & dispatchers— anyone interested in helping out can contact Bill Ambrose at 618-792-8971.

As a reminder, all Village Board meetings are open to the public; regular meetings are the second Monday of the month beginning at 7pm

and are held in our Council Chambers inside Village Hall. Monthly committee meetings are on the fourth Monday of each month, as needed, and begin at 6pm in our Council Chambers.

We encourage residents to attend and to stay informed of all the happenings in town. Also be sure to follow our Village Facebook page (Bethalto Village) and visit our website Bethalto.com.

John Standefer

As a reminder, the Village does offer a Senior Bus service. Do you know a senior citizen who could use a ride to local doctors, stores, hairdressers, etc?

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Bud and Gail Schultz

By Mark Ellebracht Big Z Media Bud and Gail Schultz have been making music together for nearly 68 years and recently stopped by the Big Z Media studios to talk about the New Horizons Band and past musical adventures.

Bud, you’ve been playing music in the Alton area for a long time, how did you finally get to join the New Horizons Band?

Bud: I was told that I was finally old enough and they let me in. It used to be you had to be at least 50 years old to join, but they’ve now allowed some younger players to join up.

Gail: I will say it is one of the most fulfilling groups, musically, that I have known and really enjoy it.

Bud: We’ll have our Christmas concert and we just did our USO shows back in November. We’ll have a spring concert too then we also do a few other extra performances throughout the year.

Gail, do you play any musical instruments?

Bud: She sings!

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Gail: When we had our (music) store in town, I did have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument but never followed up on it.

and then the bicentennial of the United States and the Marching 100 got to lead the Illinois section in Philadelphia on the 4th of July.

Bud: She did sing in our last show and will sing with a few musicians when we do our Christmas concert out at Cedarhurst where we live.

And I guess that helped get you connected with other groups and then you started up the You Can’t Beat Experience Jazz Band?

Bud, you got your start in this area by helping to form the Alton High Marching 100?

Yes, I’ve been in many other dance bands and orchestras over the years, including the Alton Symphony Orchestra, and I still play some around the area. In fact, we do play from time to time at Cedarhurst, not just around the holidays. 3

Yes, we moved to town in 1963, which of course was a significant year with the death of President Kennedy. But during our time there we got to mark a few other important dates like the sesquicentennial of Illinois, the 50th anniversary of the Alton High band department,

Hear the full interview with Bud and Gail at AdvantageNews.com under the Podcast tab.

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OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center earns ACR accreditation OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center has been awarded a renewal of an existing threeyear term of accreditation in mammography as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Mammography is a specific type of imaging test that uses a low-dose X-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.

“Our mammography program and services have voluntarily gone through a vigorous review process to ensure that we meet nationallyaccepted standards of care,” says Fred Sansoucie RT(R) (CT)(ARRT), Manager of Imaging Services, OSF Saint Anthony’s. “Our personnel are well qualified, through education and certification, to perform medical imaging, interpret your images, and administer your radiation therapy treatments. Our equipment is appropriate for the test or treatment you will receive, and our facility meets

or exceeds quality assurance and safety guidelines.”

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Parameters and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report that can be used for continuous practice improvement.

The ACR, founded in 1924, is a professional medical society dedicated to serving patients and society by empowering radiology professionals to advance the practice, science, and professions of radiological care. 3

JANUARY 2024 | 17

ADVANTAGE ATHLETES

Submit your local sports photos to sports@bigz.media.

Photos printed at editor’s discretion.

Marquette’s Brady Bechtold takes a jumper against Metro East Lutheran Alton girls basketball coach Deserea Howard

Roxana Shells senior guard Chris Walleck

CM Lady Eagles win Taylorville Tournament Championship

Oilers tip off against Redbud

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MCT Trails unleashes “Trail Critter” sculptures To celebrate the 138 miles of MCT Trails, and to bring public art into our communities, Madison County Transit (MCT) and Agency for Community Transit (ACT) are pleased to announce the installation of six out of eight large-scale “Trail Critter” sculptures along the MCT Trails, as part of the newly launched “Art on the Trails” initiative.

Created by the talented Texas-based artist Jeffie Brewer, these captivating sculptures are crafted from durable 10-gauge steel, ensuring longevity, weather resistance, and minimal maintenance requirements.

The “Trail Critter” sculptures are a generous gift to the community from ACT, designed to enhance the visual appeal of the MCT Trails while fostering

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Meet the “Trail Critters” and their respective locations: “Radish” – Located in Collinsville on the MCT Schoolhouse Trail along Horseshoe Lake Rd., a majestic 10-foot-tall purple horse.

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“Mary” – Located in Maryville along the MCT Schoolhouse Trail near Drost Park, a striking 9-foot-tall red cardinal.

“Marina” – Located south of Alton on the MCT Confluence Trail overlooking the Mississippi River, a

magnificent 12-foot-tall yellow heron.

by Plum Street, an orange kitty standing at 9 feet-tall.

“Jarvis” – Located in Troy on the MCT Goshen Trail near Loyet Road, a friendly 10-foot-tall teal bear.

Two additional “Trail Critters” will arrive along the MCT Trails in Pontoon Beach and Granite City in the spring of 2024, expanding the experience throughout Madison County. 3

“Nelson” – Located in Edwardsville at the intersection of the MCT Nature, MCT Nickel Plate, and MCT Goshen Trails

the one place to go™ 101 Wesley Drive Wood River 618-254-0605 midmembers.org

JANUARY 2024 | 21

LOCAL EXPERTS

SERVICE DIRECTORY TREE SERVICE

BANKRUPTCY Can a bankruptcy stop a foreclosure?

YES. 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.

Shari Then an emergency comes up and you Murphy 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.

Can a bankruptcy stop the foreclosure?

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.

BATH & SHOWER, INC. 6001 Godfrey Road • Godfrey 618-466-1100 • encorebathil.com Free in-home consultations & estimates

ALTON TREE SERVICE Trimming, Tree & Stump Removal

Dennis Wallace

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

INSURANCE What does a will do for me?

A will instructs how you want your assets (money, property, etc.) to be distributed after you die. If you die without a will, your probate assets will be divided according to state law.

Here are some tips for preparing a will:

Tom Lane • Have an attorney draft your will. By drafting it on your own, you risk being non-compliant with state law which makes your will invalid.

• Name an executor, who will handle such tasks as collecting assets, paying all debts and taxes and distributing your estate, according to your wishes.

• List personal property such as artwork, collectibles, jewelry and other personal property that you want to go to specific individuals.

• Do not include funeral preferences in your will since it may not be read until several weeks after your death.

• Review your will every few years and have your attorney make changes as appropriate.

A little advance preparation will help ensure that your final wishes are handled the way YOU planned them to be.

116 W. Bethalto Blvd, Bethalto 618-377-8912 tomlaneagency.net

618-977-1413

LANDRETH

ELECTRIC

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 Tree Removal

 Hedge Trimming

 Stump Removal  Chipping Services  Pruning

CALL OR TE X T

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(8733)

riverbendoutdoor@yahoo.com

RYAN

CONSTRUCTION & ROOFING EST. 1985 ryanconstructionroofing.com

618-792-1300 • ROOFING • ROOM ADDITIONS • SIDING • INTERIOR REMODEL

Insurance Claim Specialist

RESIDENTIAL ELECTRICIAN • New or Remodeled Homes • Electric Car Charging Station Installation in your home • 100/200 AMP Service Upgrades • Audio - Video - Data FULLY INSURED

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Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive Competition huge success Alton Pride’s second annual Thanksgiving Food Drive Competition was a huge success. Eleven area bars participated in the competition which ran Oct. 28 thru Nov. 12. A grand total of 3,366 non-perishable food items were donated over the two-week period – that’s over a 50% increase from last year!

The donations collected were paired with turkeys from Mike & Mikey Klasner and

Local obits and daily headlines delivered FREE to your email

 Storm Work

BEST PRICE IN TOWN!

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.

SHARI L. MURPHY

& STUMP REMOVAL

 Tree Trimming

Friends. This partnership successfully provided 55 Thanksgiving meals to Alton Riverbend Head Start and families in need in the community. A large donation was also made to the Crisis Food Center, the Boys & Girls Club Pantry and the Crisis Pantry in Alton.

The winner of the competition, having collected 1,474 items, was Pete’s Lounge. This is the second year in a row that Pete’s Lounge has won and they beat their total last year by over 200 items.

A special thank you to the other participants in the competition: Norb’s Tavern, DJ’s Bar & Grill, Bubby & Sissy’s, Morrisons Irish Pub, Old Bakery Beer Company, The Firehouse, Bakers & Hale, Bluff City Grill, FLOCK, and the Sip & Play Wine & Gaming Café. 3

EVEAL FR MO

RE

of anything metal, appliances, mowers, autos, etc.

Tips appreciated.

618-917-2620 OR 618-259-6798

RIVERBEND TREE SERVICE LICENSED INSURED LOW RATES! 618-410-8245

BUYING USED MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

618-977-5089 All types, all makes.

Paying high prices.

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SERVICE DIRECTORY DIVERSIFIED

CONSTRUCTION

FULL SERVICE CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING CO.

• KITCHENS • CUSTOM DECKS • BATHS • VINYL SIDING • BASEMENTS • WINDOWS/DOORS • GARAGES • ROOFING • ROOM ADDITIONS FREE ESTIMATES

VETERAN & SENIOR DISCOUNTS

PERFECT PAINTING & DRYWALL

•Painting FREE ESTIMATES •Drywall Over 25 years of •Carpentry professional experience •Textures •Plaster Repair •Insured

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FULLY INSURED REFERENCES

618-972-3257 @diversifiedconstructionserv

A little too much clutter in your life?

FINANCING AVAILABLE

Garage - Basement - Whole House Hoarding - Foreclosure - Storage Unit

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CALL US TODAY!

SparksJunkRemoval.net SparksJunkRemoval

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renownremodeling.com WE CAN DO IT!

H

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Cleaning out the past, packing up the present, COMMERCIAL & preparing for the future.

RESIDENTIAL CLEANING SERVICE AmericaTheClean.com FAX H 618-259-7707 H 618-216-2014

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VETER AN OWNED

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34 YEARS IN BUSINESS

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618-463-8818

(next to car credit city)

ORIENTAL & AREA RUGS C LE AN E D SERV PICK UP & DROP OFF

ICE AVAILABLE

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Locally owned & operated for 40 years

Scott Smith Godfrey

PLUMBER WITH A

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618-4668-466-2 2199

UA Plumbers & Pipefitters Union

Affordable Home Improvement

Specializing in 100, 200 amp service and repair.

Decks, additions, roofing, handyman service, concrete, masonry, kitchens & baths.

Licensed and insured.

618-258-0809

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RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL FLOORING READERS’ CHOICE

618-466-0630

1100 W Homer M Adams Pkwy, Godfrey

HAWKINS PAINTING & REMODELING INC.

General Contracting Complete Interior and Exterior Home Remodeling Room Additions Full Home Rehabs FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES

618-823-2125 @HampseyConstruction WE SPECIALIZE IN

DECK

REVITALIZATION • BUILD DECKS • POWER WASHING • INSTALL FENCING • EXT. & INT. PAINTING

Diaz & Sons

Family owned & operated

618-208-7443 618-581-5171

OLI OUTDOOR SERVICES

• Tree Trimming • Tree Removal • Power Washing • Bobcat Work Licensed locally & insured

NOW OFFERING 100% FINANCING ACH

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A+

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Free Estimates • Insured & Licensed

ROB’S

• Roofing • Remodeling • Siding CONSTRUCTION • Kitchen & Baths FREE ESTIMATES • Custom Decks FULLY INSURED • REFERENCES • Basements • Garages 618-258-9828 618-452-5009 • Windows • Doors @ROBCONSTRUCTION

CONCRETE RAISING

Brighton 618-372-7077 Godfrey 618-466-1240 Edwardsville 618-655-1441

midwestbasementtech.com JANUARY 2024 | 23

beat

$25 SAYS YOU CAN WINTER’S BLUES.

Come see how you can beat winter’s ice and isolation blues with a quick, smart move to Cedarhurst. We offer a heart-warming, socialization-rich, engagingly active and frost-free lifestyle, and we bet you’ll like it!

TAKE A TOUR AND GET A $25 GIFT CARD*.

After your tour, tell us how we did, and we’ll send you a $25 gift card.

Visit CedarhurstLiving.com or call to schedule a tour.

CEDARHURST OF GODFREY • 618-215-6781 CEDAR CREEK OF GODFREY • 618-484-8940 *Offer expires 1/31/24. Only one gift card per household, please.

Warm and friendly How you like your winter days

24 | JANUARY 2024

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