The Edge 2/13/20 Telegraph/Intelligencer

February 13, 2020 Volume 18, Issue 7

Glen Carbon hip hop artist hits stride with Illinois move, page 4

All About... : It’s Galentine’s Day!, page 9

EBR Writers Club: Black poets explore slavery’s origins, page 8

Food for Thought: Oriental Spoon dishes out Korean cuisine, page 18

2 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • On the Edge of the Weekend

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On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 3

February 13, 2020 Cover story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 All About . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Food for Thought . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 People at the Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Who to contact

Arts calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

THE EDGE PUBLISHER • Denise VonderHaar..............dvonderhaar@edwpub.net

Music calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

THE EDGE ADVERTISING DIRECTOR • Carole Fredeking ............carole.fredeking@hearst.com

Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

THE EDGE MARKETING STRATEGISTS • Mary Cook ..................................mary.cook@hearst.com • Kristine Ressler.................kristine.ressler@hearst.com THE EDGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF • Jill Moon ..................................... jill.moon@hearst.com THE EDGE EVENTS COORDINATOR • Kendra McAndrews ..... kendra.mcandrews@hearst.com

ON THE COVER: Hip hop artist Rec Riddles sits in the control room at Bird Cloud Recording in Edwardsville, where he recorded several of his albums. Rec Riddles, 30, of Glen Carbon, whose real name is Kyle Wright, started his professional music career in Newark, New Jersey.

(Scott Marion|The Edge)

THE EDGE CONTRIBUTORS • Vicki Bennington............... vbennington@sbcglobal.net • Keith Brake ............................keithbrake76@gmail.com • Robert Grubaugh .............. rgrubaugh19@hotmail.com On The Edge Of The Weekend is a product of Hearst Illinois Media Group.

4 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • On the Edge of the Weekend

Hip hop artist hits stride with Illinois move

Music matters

By Scott Marion smarion@hearst.com

EDWARDSVILLE — It’s a long way from Newark to St. Louis, but music helped Rec Riddles bridge the gap.

Rec Riddles, of Glen Carbon, burst into the hip hop scene in Newark, New Jersey, in 2013, and now is one of St. Louis’ most popular hip hop artists since moving to Illinois in August 2014.

The packaging company his wife works for were opening a St. Louis facility where it would need a human resources supervisor, recalled the former lifelong New Jersey resident.

“She got the offer to move and I said, ‘Let’s pack it up and go,’” said Rec, 30, even though he had concerns about relocating because of his budding music career in Newark.

“I had made so many connections in the New York-New Jersey area with the music, especially in the hip hop field,” he said. “I was worried that I would have to start over again.

“Luckily, with the power of the internet and social media, I did some research, and found some promoters and venues that suited what I was trying to do.”

He fell in love with hip hop when he around 7 years old in the late 1990s.

“In my opinion, that was the golden age of hip hop,” said Rec about that era of hip hop.

“Guys were innovative, had a lot to say and would tackle the topics of the day.”

The era ushered in the genre’s superstars, including Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z, Ice Cube, Nas, 2Pac, and, The Notorious B.I.G. But Rec got his love of music through his family.

“My father played the violin, my mother was a singer and my uncle played eleven instruments,” he explained, “so I’ve always had music around the house. My grandmother had a piano in the living room and my brothers and I were always tinkering with that.”

Rec landed his first professional gig in 2013 at the famed Webster Hall in New York City, in the East Village of Manhattan. Webster Hall, a historic landmark, has been recognized as the first modern nightclub and is one of the city’s premiere live music venues.

It was both exhilarating and intimidating.

“There were some music industry professionals in the audience, so it was nerve-wracking,” he recalled. “I was anxious and excited to make my debut and being able to perform for people, but I was happy when it was over.

“At first, I didn’t love performing,” he revealed. “I would get an upset stomach and get nervous.”

He performed in St. Louis for the first time in 2015.

“Once I moved here, I was able to conquer

that fear,” he said, “and feel much more comfortable on the stage. It’s become my favorite pastime, aside from recording in the studio.”

Over the last decade, he has proven to be a prolific artist, with 16 albums, including his latest release, “Rec 2,” which came out in December. He surprised himself with the release, because usually he avoids end-of-the-year releases due to the busy holiday season.

“But, I got in the studio one day, started tinkering with a few things and the next thing I knew, I had a full body of work,” Rec said.

“I love this project because it’s in a different direction musically,” he said. “It’s more stripped down and the things that I wrote about are very personal to me.”

With an impressive repertoire of original music and a steady diet of live appearances, Rec Riddles quickly made a name for himself in the Midwest.

“When I moved to the St. Louis area, I started performing all over the place,” he said.

“That jumpstarted my career because I was able to perform in so many places, like, Kansas City and Chicago.

“I’ve been able to do what they call a ‘weekend warrior’ tour, and every weekend from July through November, I was in a different part of the Midwest.”

And he likes to perform back on the East Coast where he still has all of those connections. He also has performed in San Diego, Los Angeles and Seattle, as well as Texas and Atlanta.

Rec Riddles, whose real name is Kyle Wright, derived his stage name from the original 1960s “Batman” television series and his love for comic books. “’Batman’ was my favorite comic and I grew up watching Adam West as Batman,” Rec said.

“I loved Frank Gorshin’s portrayal of the Riddler and he became my favorite villain.”

At first, he called himself The Riddler, until his brother informed him they couldn’t use the moniker because of D.C. Comics and Warner Brothers owning the right to the name. Then they thought about ‘Riddles’ but it didn’t work for Wright.

“One day we were recording down in a basement, and the abbreviation on the console for ‘record’ is ‘rec,’” he recalled. “So I put it together as Rec Riddles and it just stuck. That was around 2010, and that’s been my name ever since.”

Lyrically, Rec tries to be topical.

“I want my music to be reflective of what is going on in my life,” he said, “but also reflective of what is going on in the world.

“A lot of the things I write about, I may speak of them in the first person, but it could be about my best friend and the trials and tribula-

Hip hop artist Rec Riddles, 30, of Glen Carbon, whose real name is Kyle Wright, plays the piano at Bird Cloud Recording in Edwardsville. As youngsters, he and his brothers tinkered on his grandmother’s piano in her Newark, New Jersey living room. (Scott Marion|The Edge) tions they’re going through. I feel that makes my music more relatable because we’re talking about things that everyone has in common.

“Everything can’t be happy, but I want to have a balance.”

He looks to people, like, Bob Dylan and Bob Marley.

“They had something to say about what is going on in the world, but at the same time, they write about good times, as well,” he said.

“I want my music to reflect the good times and the bad times.”

If there is one thing that Rec enjoys more than performing live, it’s studio time creating music.

He has a home recording studio but has

recorded albums in several studios around the country, including Bird Cloud Recording, in Edwardsville, where he worked with owner Ryan Wasoba.

“Ryan and I have similar interests in music, and we like a lot of the same hip hop artists,” he said. “Meeting a guy like him has been a pleasure, especially working at his facility.”

Rec’s previous album, “As the World Burns,” is available at Edwardsville’s Trusty Chords Record Shop. He is looking to perform in Edwardsville, but hasn’t chosen a venue or a date.

“I’ve been in talks with a few people. I want to do it while the SIUE students are still in school.”

On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 5

Edwardsville venue celebrates 6 months, opening franchises

Edwardsville venue Obar Café opening St. Louis franchise, others The Edge

EDWARDSVILLE — Obar Café is celebrating six months in business, just in time for Valentine’s Day, with an enhanced, international menu of healthy juices, coffees and meals.

Owner Chelsea Coughlin and her business partner, Next Level fitness and sports company owner EJ Jones, said the past six months have brought a growing number of health-conscious patrons to her café, which opened last August in Edwardsville’s Montclaire Shopping Center, 1516 Troy Road, unit B. As Coughlin celebrates this success, she’s also celebrating expansion into other markets, with franchise contract locations in the works for St. Louis’ Delmar Loop, South Chicago (New Lenox), South Charlotte and Durham, both in North Carolina; Tampa Bay, Florida; and, Long Island, New York.

“We’re excited about the opportunity to

open more Obars, but we’re even more excited that Edwardsville is our home,” Coughlin said, “and home to the ‘O-riginal’ Obar.”

She invites Valentine’s revelers to check out the café’s newest offerings, including fruit-stuffed protein corn bread muffins, maple bacon bourbon wheat waffles with grilled chicken, potato bowls, rice bowls, a “Half-Signature Menu/Half Create Your Own” menu, “Create your own” O-mojitos, O-mimosas and O-sangria with any fruit or juice desired, and a host of Keto, vegan and vegetarian options.

Fresh Greek, Asian, Caribbean, Mexican and Indian dishes, utilizing special herbs and spices, also are recent menu additions.

Coughlin has been working with respected local restaurateur Ryan O’Day, owner of Edwardsville-based Wang Gang Asian Eats, on Obar Café’s latest menu offerings.

“Our new menus make ordering even simpler,” said Coughlin, a Carlinville native.

“We’re the most convenient, delicious and

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fresh, ‘eggceptional’ omelet in town,” she said. “Our signature citrus-infused coffees, teas and juices offer healthy choices and a haven from the hectic pace of daily life.”

Guests are able to bring their laptops and enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, relaxing music and functional soft seating, tables and workstations with power outlets to literally rest and recharge. Obar Café also frequently

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hosts women’s groups, youth gatherings and other professional and social meet-ups, and offers catering, too.

Obar Café is open for breakfast from 7 a.m.- 3 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays.

For more info and a full menu, visit obarcafe.com and Facebook at @obaredwardsville.

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6 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • On the Edge of the Weekend

Jesus Loves You ST. PAUL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

407 Edwardsville Rd. (Rt. 162) Troy, IL 62294 667-6241 Andy Adams, Pastor Sunday Worship: 8 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:15 a.m. & 10:45 a.m.

Wednesday Evening Youth Services New Life Student Ministry www.troyumc.org

ST. BONIFACE CATHOLIC CHURCH

110 N. Buchanan Edwardsville 656-6450 Very Reverend Jeffrey Goeckner

Sacrament of Reconciliation: Wed., & Thurs. - 6 pm Saturday - 3:30-4:00 pm Saturday Vigil Mass - 4:15 pm Sunday Mass 8:15 am, 10:15 am, 5:15 pm Spanish Mass - 12:15 pm Daily Mass Schedule - Mon., 5:45 pm Tues., Thurs., Fri. - 8:00 am Wed., & Thurs. - 6:45 pm

All Are Welcome

www.st-boniface.com

1 District Drive, Edwardsville

3277 Bluff Rd. Edwardsville, IL 656-1500

(Liberty Middle School)

310 South Main, Edwardsville 656-7498

Rev. Diane C. Grohmann

Bible Studies, Family, Youth & College Ministries 9:30 a.m. Worship / 11:15 a.m. Sunday School

Traditional Worship: 9:00 a.m.

Contemporary Worship: 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School: 10:30 a.m.

Youth: 5:30 p.m.

Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m.

Rev. Aaron Myers, Pastor

Phone: 618-307-6590 www.providencepres.net Presbyterian Church in America

MOUNT JOY MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH OF EDWARDSVILLE

327 Olive Street • Edw, IL 656-0845 Steve Jackson, Pastor Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship: 10:45 a.m.

Wed. Early Morning Prayer: 5:00 a.m.

Wed. Bible Study: noon

www.mtjoymbc.org

Doug Job, Interim Minister Macy Sullens, Youth and Childrens’ Minister

Our Facility is Handicap Accessible

www.stpauledw.org

www.fccedwardsville.org

St. Mary’s Parish 1802 Madison Avenue, Edwardsville, IL 62025 (618) 656-4857 Weekend Masses:

Saturdays 5:00 pm Sundays 8:00 am & 10:30 am Confessions Saturday 3:30 to 4:30 pm

Daily Mass:

Tues., 6:30 pm, Wed-Fri., 8:00 am

www.stmaryedw.org email: office@stmaryedw.org St. Mary’s School (618) 656-1230

Eden Sunday Schedule: Worship 8:00 am Sunday School 9:15 am Worship 10:30 am Bible based fellowship 618-656-4330 903 N. 2nd Street • Edw edenchurch-edw.org

Call Regina at 618-208-6433 to add your church listing

On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 7

Region to host ‘Pokémon GO Safari Zone St. Louis’

Niantic’s real world events drives estimated $249M in markets’ tourism revenue The Edge

ST. LOUIS — The craze is here — for all ages — “Pokémon GO Live!”

This March, “Pokémon GO Live!” is coming to St. Louis, thanks to a partnership between Explore St. Louis and Niantic Inc., the foremost global leader for innovative real-world games with immersive interactive experiences, all around the world.

Of 2020 selected new locations, St. Louis joined Liverpool, England, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, which were hand-picked, following their submissions to #NianticLive2020, which invited cities and local governments around the world to apply to host large-scale, real-world game events in 2020. “Pokémon GO Safari Zone St. Louis” is Friday, March 27, through Sunday, March 29, at Tower Grove Park, 4257 Northeast Drive, St. Louis.

Niantic touted, in a recent news release, this year’s initial festival lineup for Niantic’s global live events and the economic impact of these fests.

If you go: What: Pokémon GO Safari Zone St. Louis When: Friday, March 27 – Sunday, March 29 Where: Tower Grove Park, 4257 Northeast Drive, St. Louis Info: Tower Grove Park will have two entrances to Pokémon GO Safari Zone St. Louis at its East and West entrances. For more ticket information, go to https:// pokemongolive.com/events/safarizone/stlouis/ Trainers can look forward to encountering Mankey, Unown S, Teddiursa, Snivy and Ferroseed throughout the park. Chatot, which usually appears only in the Southern Hemisphere, will also be appearing in Tower Grove Park.

“Over the last seven years, real-world live events have been central to Niantic’s goal in leveraging technology to create interactive experiences that foster exploration and discovery; active, healthy lifestyles; and, lasting friendships,” said Niantic’s Michael Steranka, senior manager, live events.

“Niantic’s large-scale, real-world events have had a true and clear positive economic impact on tourism, bringing people from around the world together for a weekend of adventure,” Steranka said. “We were incredibly impressed by the number and quality of entries in the (hashtag) #NianticLive2020 program.

“As a result, we are excited to announce the addition of Liverpool, Philadelphia and St. Louis to our live events schedule in 2020.”

Niantic’s augmented-reality mobile games — “Pokémon GO,” “Harry Potter: Wizards Unite” and “Ingress” — have transformed how players interact with the world and each other. Through the power of large-scale live events, hundreds of thousands of players from around the world have come together to play games, explore the real world and share experiences.

Niantic’s live events have had a direct,

positive economic impact on the cities that has hosted these real-world events, driving an estimated $249 million in tourism revenue last year across Chicago, Montréal and Dortmund. The events — “Pokémon GO Fest 2019 Chicago,” “Pokémon GO Fest 2019 Dortmund” and “Pokémon GO Safari Zone Montréal” — saw substantial attendance, significant distance walked and an increase of tourism, in addition to other notable economic impacts during each event.

This year, Niantic will continue to build upon its innovative real-world games in all-new locations around the world.

“Pokémon GO!” U.S. events previously scheduled will occur in San Francisco, Washington D.C. and Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Visit www.pokémongolive.com/events for ticket information and more.

Originally incubated within Google, Niantic Studios spun out in 2015, with investments from Google, The Pokémon Co. and Nintendo. In January 2019, Niantic closed $245 million in Series C funding from IVP, aXiomatic Gaming, Battery Ventures, Causeway Media Partners, CRV and Samsung Ventures.

Prior financing includes $200 million in 2017 from Spark Capital, Founders Fund,

Meritech, Javelin Venture Partners, You & Mr. Jones and NetEase Inc., and then a follow-on offering from Alsop Louie Partners. Niantic’s immersive Real World Platform powers its ground-breaking Augmented Reality games, which are available on the App Store and Google Play. For more information visit www. nianticlabs.com.

Pokémon was launched in Japan in 1996 and today is one of the most popular children’s entertainment properties in the world. The Pokémon Co. International, a subsidiary of The Pokémon Co. in Japan, manages the property outside of Asia and is responsible for brand management, licensing/marketing, the Pokémon Trading Card Game, animated television series, home entertainment and the official Pokémon website. For more information visit www.pokémon.com.

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, a division of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Inc., is a premier worldwide publisher, developer, licensor and distributor of entertainment content for the interactive space across all platforms, including console, handheld, mobile and PC-based gaming, for both internal and third-party game titles. For more information visit www.wbgames.com.

(Photo credit “Pokémon GO”|For The Edge)

8 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • On the Edge of the Weekend

EBR Writers Club presents ‘From Black Kingdoms to Black Shackles to Black Self-Reliance’

The Edge

EAST ST. LOUIS — Using poetry to explore the origins of, and triumphs over, U.S. slavery, the Eugene B. Redmond (EBR) Writers Club will present its annual Black History Month Celebration Tuesday, Feb. 18.

“From Black Kingdoms to Black Shackles to Black Self-Reliance” will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the East St. Louis Higher Education Campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, in the cafeteria of Building B, 601 J.R. Thompson Drive, in East St. Louis.

Preparing for the program, club members digested hundreds of pages of an August 2019 issue of The New York Times, devoted to the “The 1619 Project,” about the year that scholars say U.S. enslavement of Africans began in Jamestown, Virginia.

Subsequently, the writers wrote about slavery — and its “hand-me-downs” — in various poetic forms, including “kwansabas,” a format invented by the EBR Writers Club, and haiku and tankas, the latter two forms being native to Japan. Poets presenting Feb. 18 include Roscoe “Ros” Crenshaw, Charlois Lumpkin, Darlene Roy and Jaye P. Willis, with Eugene B. Redmond as moderator.

The Writers Club, which turns 34 years old in March, was co-founded by charter members Roy, who’s the club’s president, Redmond and Sherman L. Fowler in 1986.

For nearly two decades, the club edited and co-published Drumvoices Revue with Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

Redmond, Drumvoices Revue’s founding editor, is an emeritus professor of English, retired from SIUE in 2007.

Current club trustees are Avery Brooks, Haki R. Madhubuti, Walter Mosley, Quincy Troupe and Jerry Ward. Deceased trustees

include Margaret Walker Alexander, Maya Angelou, Amiri Baraka, Gwendolyn Brooks, Raymond Patterson, Barbara Ann Teer and

Dr. Lena Weathers.

The public is welcome to this free family friendly program. For more information,

call 618 650-3991, write to EBR Writers Club, P.O. Box 6165, East St. Louis, Illinois 62201 or email eredmon@siue.edu.

Oft-published poets of the Eugene B. Redmond Writers Club, seated left to right, Charlois Lumpkin, Darlene Roy, Jaye P. Willis, and, standing left to right, Roscoe “Ros” Crenshaw and Eugene B. Redmond. (For The Edge)

Gateway Arch National Park hosts program honoring African American women’s suffrage

The Edge

ST. LOUIS — In celebration of AfricanAmerican Heritage Month in February, Gateway Arch National Park hosts a special event that commemorates African American women suffragists.

African American Women’s Suffrage is at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, in the edu-

cation classroom at the Gateway Arch (located on lower level of Arch Visitor Center), St. Louis. The event is free and open to the public and all ages. No reservations are required.

“As the country comes together to commemorate African Americans throughout history, here at Gateway Arch National Park we are spotlighting the struggles

and achievements of those whose fights for civil rights have strong ties to St. Louis,” said the Gateway Arch National Park’s Erin Hilligoss-Volkmann, director of education.

Presenter Lynne Jackson is a direct descendant of Dred and Harriet Scott — who famously sued for their freedom from slavery at St. Louis’ Old Court-

house, prior to the Civil War — and the founder and president of the Dred Scott Heritage Foundation. She will discuss the history of civil rights and African American women’s suffrage. Visitors will learn how the past connects to the present, and how women and African Americans fought for their right to vote in the city of St. Louis.

All About... • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 9

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By Jill Moon jill.moon@hearst.com

Live it up! It’s Galentine’s Day! and make a day of it!

Hosted by Courage & Grace O’Fallon DIY Art Studio, with a location in Edwardsville; Downtown District O’Fallon; Yoga Core and More; Refinery Salon; Skin Serenity Skin Care Studio; and, Furchild.

And some happening later: Sunday, Feb. 16  Galentine’s Brunch & Bubbly!

The Weingarten, 1780 E. State Route 15, Belleville “This one’s for the girls!” Bottomless

mimosas & build-your-own bloody Mary bar — 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Live music by Jason Garms — noon-4 p.m. Brunch & lunch food options and photo ops for your next framed gem with the ladies.

Hosted by The Weingarten.

Break out the heart-shaped box of chocolates and champagne for one of the biggest days of the month. Not Valentine’s Day, but today — Galentine’s Day. According to nationaltoday.com, Feb. 13, the day prior to Valentine’s Day was designed to celebrate equally important relationships as significant others — our friends!

It’s a time to get together with your besties and celebrate each other and the closeness you share.

Deputy Director Leslie Knope of the popular show “Parks and Recreation,” invented Galentine’s Day and centered the show’s 16th episode of the second season (about 10 years ago, if you’re not sure) on her creation.

Here’s some Galentine’s Day events happening today:  Courage & Grace Galentine’s Day Public Workshop Edwardsville, 6:30 p.m. (Sign up at Courage & Grace’s Facebook page) Courage & Grace DIY Art Studio Edwardsville, 102 E. Vandalia St. Join us for this workshop, which is for age 18-plus, where you can choose one of many designs to paint. All materials will be provided for you to paint your sign, customized to your home decor, your style and what makes YOU happy! The flat cost of this firstcome-first-served workshop is $35, but there might be additional costs, depending on what DIY art studio’s material you select.

Hosted by Courage & Grace Edwardsville DIY Art Studio, with a location in O’Fallon.  Galentine’s Day Boutique Dupe Party, 5-8 p.m.

Glo Tan, 931 S. State St., Jerseyville Stop by for a free tan in a level-one bed, designer dupes, adorable boutique clothing and some chocolate-covered strawberries.

Bring your gal pals and celebrate!

Hosted by Glo Tan, with Route 46 Clothing Co. and Alton-based The Fashion Lane Mobile Boutique.  Galentine’s Girls Night Out Purses FUNraising, 5-10 p.m.

IMPACT Center for Independent Living (CIL), 735 E. Broadway, Alton Come join us for a fun-filling Ladies Celebrating Ladies, featuring live music, fashion show, purse auction, wine and hor d’oeuvres! $20 at the door.

Hosted by IMPACT CIL.  Galentine’s at Downtown District, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Downtown District, 116 E. First St., O’Fallon Come celebrate your friendship with ON THE COVER: Both Edwardsville and O’Fallon locations of Courage & Grace DIY Art Studio will host Galentine’s Day Workshops, in your favorite gals during Galentines! Many Edwardsville, at 6:30 p.m. (Sign up at Courage & Grace’s Facebook page) and co-host in O’Fallon, at the Galentine’s at Downtown District O’Fallon businesses have special events celebration, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., at Downtown District, 116 E. First St. (Photo courtesy of Courage & Grace|For The Edge) going on for this fun day, so grab your girls

12 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • All About...

All About... • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 13

Shop eco-friendly Valentine’s Day ideas

Red may be the color most often associated with Valentine’s Day, but those who want environmentally friendly ways to celebrate this day of love can tint the occasion with a little green. This list of earth-conscious Valentine’s Day gifts can provide inspiration for loving couples.

• Give organic chocolate. Eco-conscious chocolate connoisseurs will appreciate indulgent fine chocolates crafted with the planet in mind. Some of the world’s best chocolate is produced from small cacao farms that do not employ fungicide or insecticide in their farming practices.

Choose chocolate artisans that produce their chocolate from responsibly-sourced ingredients for a sweet Valentine’s Day treat.

• Plant a live gift. A living gift can be a symbol of enduring love and one that gives back to the environment. Couples can explore their options at local nurseries and plant a shade tree, shrubbery or even a fruit tree. This is certainly a gift that can give every year.

• Write it down. Love notes are a simple, heartfelt gift. Choose to scribble down sentiments on recycled paper with nontoxic inks. Give that love note even more traction by framing it for a lasting gift.

• Adopt an animal. Animal lovers crusade for their favorite mammals, reptiles and amphibians every day. Rather than

exchanging a stuffed animal on Valentine’s Day that will only take up space on a shelf or bed, consider saving the life of a real animal. Conservation agencies can always use helping hands. Donations can be used to feed and shelter pets or to restore habitats for wild animals.

• Give living plants. Flowers can express all types of emotions, but those cut blooms will begin to fade after a few days, especially when some flowers are flown in from all over the world. Gifting a potted plant from a local nursery is a more eco-friendly idea, and one that can last for many years to come.

• Create a free-range, organic meal.

Homemade food can be a nice gesture, especially when cooks select fair-trade, organic and free-range products. Don’t forget to extend the specialized shopping to include wine or other beverages that are locally sourced.

• Give gifts of sustainable comfort.

Practical but luxurious linens and clothing made from sustainable materials are great eco-friendly gifts. Bamboo bedding or organic cotton shirts offer comfort and promote environmental stewardship.

Gifting green for Valentine’s Day is easier than one may think. Eco-conscious gifts are a smart idea for anyone who wants to impart minimal impact on the planet this February and beyond.

VFW Post 1308 4445 Alby • Alton

• Mondays: Pizza & Wings from 12-7:30 with $1.75 bottles 4-7:30 pmpm with $1.75 bottles all dayall day • 8:30 pm 50/50 Drawing - Need not be present to win.

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14 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • All About...

How local businesses give back to their communities

Small businesses are booming. Information from the Small Business Administration and the U.S. Census Bureau’s Annual Survey of Entrepreneurs says that small businesses, or firms with fewer than 500 workers, accounted for 99.7 of businesses in 2016, the most recent year for data. Firms with fewer than 100 workers accounted for 98.2 percent of companies. In Canada, 97.9 percent of businesses were small as of 2017, with more than half concentrated in the Ontario and Quebec provinces.

Thanks to their influence and reach, small businesses have the potential to impact local communities in numerous ways.

• Small businesses employ local residents. The Statistics Canada Labour Force Survey indicates companies with fewer than 100 employees employed 69.7 of the population in 2017. According to the SBA’s Office of Advocacy, small businesses accounted for 61.8 percent of net new jobs in the United States between 1993 and 2016.

• Small businesses are innovative. The SBA notes that small businesses represent about 96 percent of employer firms in high-patenting manufacturing industries. That suggests that small businesses are full of new ideas.

• Small businesses support local charities. Many local

businesses give to charity, particularly local charities.

Some donate money while others may offer their professional services or event spaces, each of which can be particularly helpful to local communities.

• Small businesses contribute to community identity.

Small businesses contribute to the charm and character of a town or city. Many local businesses make up the fabric of Main Street, and towns are known and loved for the businesses that have endured.

• Small businesses help the environment. Shopping locally means consumers do not have to travel far to get their goods and services. The United States Environmental Protection Agency’s research report on walkable downtown centers found small businesses encourage walking and cycling, helping to reduce air pollution from vehicles.

• Small businesses keep money in communities.

Local businesses keep disposable income and tax money within their communities. Business tax money remains local and can support schools, roads and municipal services.

Local small businesses are the life force that keeps cities and towns prosperous and humming along. Such establishments help build a sense of community and forge lasting relationships.

How to sustain a small business Opening a small business can be an exciting time in the life of an entrepreneur. Part of that excitement no doubt stems from the financial risks associated with opening a new business. Keeping that business growing and thriving takes effort, but the results can be rewarding.

It is reasonable to feel nervous when starting a business. Information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that about 20 percent of small businesses fail within a year of opening. That number climbs to 50 percent after five years and 70 percent by year 10.

While it’s essential for small business owners to focus on getting their businesses off the ground, it is equally important to consider the strategies necessary to keep that business afloat for the long haul.

Find an industry with staying power Statistics indicate that health care and social assistance businesses have longevity. The BLS indicates businesses in the construction, transportation and warehousing industries do not enjoy the same staying power. After the fifth year in business, about 35 to 40 percent of these industries will survive. Opening a business in an industry where the stats are on your side can be a savvy move.

Access capital Quite often businesses fail because of lack of access to cash to sustain their operations. Fundera, a small business lending marketplace, advises that a large percentage of small business owners who apply for bank loans from big banks get rejected. In addition to raising capital through daily operations, businesses may have to turn to alternative lenders. Alternative lenders are typically companies, but not banks, that operate primarily online to quickly approve and distribute funds. Many are comprised of peer-to-peer lenders. According to a study by Harvard Business School, most major alternative lenders offer full loan applications online on desktop or mobile that take 30 minutes to complete. Keep in mind that interests rates typically are higher with these lenders than with traditional banks.

Stay efficient Small businesses can grow by maximizing operational efficiency and eliminating unnecessary duties. Efficient business owners delegate tasks to employees so they can keep their own management and business-growing priorities in order.

Build a strong brand and emphasize customer service Whether a large company or a mom-and-pop business, building a trustworthy and reputable brand can help sustain a business for years to come. It is key to keep a business fresh in the minds of consumers. This can be achieved by making small changes dictated by evolving markets and/or offering new products or services.

Forbes says employee interactions are also key to building loyalty among customers. Keeping in touch with clients and using their opinions to make a product or service better can ensure repeat business.

Small business success comes down to recognizing that it takes continued work to keep operations afloat.

Knowing what supports a business is essential to its longevity.

All About... • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 15

ALTON LITTLE THEATER presents

Starring Kevin Frakes Featuring Sawyer Burton & Kate Costello

Kenny Rogers & Company

TRIBUTE CONCERT & SHOW Come remember WHY we all fell in love with the “Gambler” for six decades!

The best ballads, the best memories, the best guy that ever wore a black hat!

Friday, February 21st - 7:30pm Saturday, February 22nd - 7:30pm Sunday, February 23rd - 2pm Tickets: $25 BOX OFFICE: 618.462.3205 • www.altonlittletheater.org MONDAY - FRIDAY 10AM-2PM

16 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • On the Edge of the Weekend

On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 17

SHOP LOCAL IN ED-GLEN

18 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • On the Edge of the Weekend

Food for Thought …with Vicki Bennington

Korean Cuisine, Please!

By Vicki Bennington For The Edge EDWARDSVILLE — I may have mentioned before that my husband and I love to stop by different restaurants and try multiple appetizers to share.

It’s a fun way to sample a few things, and almost always, he likes one better than I do, and vice versa, so we each end up finishing off our individual favorite.

We tried Oriental Spoon Vicki in Edwardsville for the Bennington first time, a Korean and Korean-fusion restaurant and decided to go out on a limb and order three appetizers, along with a cold beer for him and a glass of chardonnay for me, which pairs especially nice with seafood hors d’oeuvres.

Now that I write that, it brings up an interesting question. Is there a difference between appetizers and hors d’oevres?

Or for that matter, “starters”? You often

see these words used interchangeably on menus at different restaurants. You might also see them on an invitation. For example, it might say, “heavy hors d’oevres will be served.”

The exact difference between the two (or three) is this: The French phrase, “hors d’oeuvres” translates to “outside a meal,” and may be served before a meal, even passed around while guests are standing at an event or party — usually not requiring a fork (or chopsticks). But if the invite says, “heavy hors d’oevres,” it would generally mean they are the meal.

Appetizers are served as a first course, when seated. The word — by definition — means a small dish that would stimulate the appetite for the meal that follows. Same with starters.

So … what exactly did we order at Oriental Spoon?

The Oriental Spoon menu listed them as starters, and we ate them while seated at a table. We were offered both forks and chopsticks. We chose to use the forks that day, and took the chopsticks with us to experi-

ment within the privacy of our own home.

Not that we both haven’t used chopsticks before, and, in fact, we thought we had them mastered. But if it has been a while since using them, it feels like learning all over again.

At any rate, we ate our starters with a fork, seated at a table. But we didn’t follow them with a meal. I think we treated them as hors d’oevres. Whatever you call them, they were delicious.

The crispy coconut shrimp was handrolled fresh shrimp (large ones) in shredded coconut, fried golden brown, served with homemade honey-mustard and orange marmalade dipping sauce.

Spicy crab rangoon was my husband’s favorite, consisting of hand-rolled, deepfried wonton rolls stuffed with spicy cream cheese, crab meats and green onions, served with a sweet chili sauce.

Our third choice is my No. 1 pick — hand-rolled seafood rolls stuffed with glass noodles and carrots, called gim (Korean name for edible seaweed) rolls — served with a homemade seasoned soy sauce. They looked very interesting, too.

If we had stayed for dinner, the choices for the Korean dish, bulgogi, are extensive — including beef, spicy pork, chicken, tofu,

shrimp, squid and veggie selections. If you are not familiar, bulgogi (translates to “fire meat”) consists basically of thinly sliced, marinated meat, grilled on a barbecue or griddle, stir-fried with an assortment of vegetables, ginger sauce and sesame seeds.

Several types of lettuce wraps and a number of noodle dishes, such as beef bulgogi noodle or kimchi and tofu noodle make for a wide variety of choices.

Desserts included a “Mat-Tang,” which is traditionally Korean, consisting of fried sweet potatoes covered with honey and caramel, and topped with peanut crumbs, or “Hoi Hoi,” Korean rice and wheat flour pancakes with a honey and brown sugar filling, topped with powdered sugar and served with strawberry jam. That sounds like a wonderful meal on its own!

Oriental Spoon is located at 229 Harvard Drive in Edwardsville. For more information, visit orientalspoon.net.

In this column, Vicki Bennington shares her love of food and all that involves, from special dishes at local and regional restaurants, to chef conversations, new trends and fads, and things to try at home. Contact her at vbennington@ sbcglobal.net with comments, ideas, questions or suggestions.

see FOOD FOR THOUGHT, Page 20

NEW LOCATION IN FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS Same care. Same experts who listen.

thisishealthcare.org #ThisIsHealthCare Check out the new location in Fairview Heights – make your appointment by phone or online. www.plannedparenthood.org/book • 1-800-230-PLAN (7526)

On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 19

Shop Local Join the Buy True Local Movement We are investing in Edwardsville and Glen Carbon by launching a Buy True Local initiative. We are so excited to be educating the public on the positive impact that shopping local can have on the local economy and the overall quality of Ed-Glen.

You will begin seeing window decals around town in local businesses with the Buy True Local logo, as well as a Business Directory and Business Profiles on our website. We also have several new advertising packages available to local businesses only.

20 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • On the Edge of the Weekend

FOOD FOR THOUGHT continued from Page 18

Oriental Spoon’s Spicy crab rangoon, served with a sweet chili sauce. (Vicki Bennington | For The Edge)

Oriental Spoon’s crispy coconut shrimp, served with homemade honey-mustard and orange marmalade dipping sauce. (Vicki Bennington | For The Edge)

Treat your sweet with a new kitchen or bath

Oriental Spoon’s gim rolls — hand-rolled seafood rolls stuffed with glass noodles and carrots, served with a homemade seasoned soy sauce. (Vicki Bennington | For The Edge)

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On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 21

People At The Party

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville kicked off Black Heritage Month with an opening ceremony at the Goshen Lounge at Morris University Center. It was the first of many Black Heritage events scheduled throughout this month and included guest speakers, music and recognition of SIUE’s African American sororities and fraternities.

(Scott Marion|The Edge) Prince Robertson, assistant director of student conduct at SIUE, interviews Dr. Robin Hughes, dean of the SIUE School of Education, Health and Human Behavior. (Scott Marion|The Edge)

see PEOPLE AT THE PARTY, Page 23

MEET THE PAVILION FOR WOMEN STAFF Nurses, Childbirth Educators, Lactation Consultants and more.

Free Admission, door prizes, vendor booths, local physicians, kid safety, and crib giveaway LOOKING FOR VENDORS! VISIT ANDERSONHOSPITAL.ORG FOR MORE DETAILS!

When: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Where: Collinsville Gateway Center

22 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • On the Edge of the Weekend

What to hear ... music Thursday, Feb. 13 • The Intrusion, 3rd Chute Bar & Grill, Alton IL, 7 p.m.

• Ben Folds, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, St. Louis MO, 7:30 p.m.

• King Princess, The Pageant, St. Louis MO, 8 p.m.

• Clint Lowery, Fubar, St. Louis MO, 11 p.m.

• Peekaboo: The Impossible Tour, Old Rock House, St. Louis MO, 7 p.m.

• Matisyahu, Delmar Hall, St. Louis MO, 8 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 14 • Eugene Peebles “The Talking Sax,” EXO Lounge, Edwardsville IL, 7 p.m.

• Brooklyn Charmers – Steely Dan Tribute, The Wildey Theatre, Edwardsville IL, 8 p.m.

• Rogers & Nienhaus, Mac’s Downtown, Alton IL, 7:30 p.m.

• Benbow City Shuffle, Bakers & Hale, Godfrey IL, 6 p.m.

• Jameson Rodgers, Delmar Hall, St. Louis MO, 8 p.m.

• Michael Ray and Carly Pearce, FOX Sports Midwest Live, St. Louis MO, Saturday, Feb. 15 • Brooklyn Charmers – Steely Dan Tribute, The Wildey Theatre, Edwardsville IL, 8 p.m.

• Hideous Gentleman, Stagger Inn Again, Edwardsville IL, 10 p.m.

• NGK, The Old Bakery Beer Co., Alton IL, 6 p.m.

• Number4Combo, Chez Marilyn, Alton IL, 7 p.m.

• Poppy, Delmar Hall, St. Louis MO, 8 p.m.

• American Authors, The Pageant, St. Louis MO, 8 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 16 • Dead Man’s Bridge, Moose Lodge,

Edwardsville IL, 2 p.m.

• Hideous Gentlemen, Stagger Inn Again, Edwardsville IL, 10 p.m.

• Charlotte Street, Bella Vista Winery, Maryville IL, 2 p.m.

• Nostalgia, Tango Event Center, Alton IL, 5 p.m.

• The Jonathan Baker Duo, Roper’s Regal Beagle, Godfrey IL, 4 p.m.

• Graham Pagano, The Terrace at Aerie’s Resort, Grafton IL, 1 p.m.

• FIRE, The Chase Park Plaza, St. Louis MO, 9 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 17 • Steve Cline, Prairie Inn, Dorsey IL, 6 p.m.

• Blue Monday, The Gaslight, St. Louis MO, 7:30 p.m.

• Monday Mix/Up featuring Mobius, The Dark Room, St. Louis MO, 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 18 • Open Mic Night, Sophie’s Artist Lounge & Cocktail Club, St. Louis MO, 7 p.m.

• Turntable Tuesday, The Last Hotel, St. Louis MO, 5 p.m.

• Larry Griffin & Eric McSpadden, The Dark Room, St. Louis MO, 7 p.m.

• Bluestravaganza on South Grand, Apotheosis Comics & Lounge, St. Louis MO, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 19 • Voodoo Jimmy Buffett, Broadway Oyster Bar, St. Louis MO, 9 p.m.

• Raphael Saadiq, The Pageant, St. Louis MO, 8 p.m.

• Mattiel, Blueberry Hill Duck Room, University City MO, 8 p.m.

• Clark Beckham, Off Broadway Music Venue, St. Louis MO, 8 p.m.

• The Kasimu-tet: Wednesday Night Jazz Crawl, The Dark Room, St. Louis MO, 9 p.m.

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Thursday, Feb. 13 • Gal-entines Day Workshop, Courage & Grace, Edwardsville IL, 6:30 p.m.

• Xtreme Bar Bingo, Edison’s Entertainment Complex, Edwardsville IL, 7 p.m.

• Memory Café, Main Street Community Center, Edwardsville IL, 10 a.m.

• “Return to the Frying Pan” by Cindy Leonard, Edwardsville Public Library, Edwardsville IL, 7 p.m.

• Plant Club Lecture Series + Seed Share, The Old Bakery Beer Company, Alton IL, 6:30 p.m.

• How to Get a Date – Vintage Films, Missouri History Museum, St. Louis MO, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 14 • Legendary Mustang Sanctuary SweetHeart Music Trivia Blast w/ Big Papa G, Moose Lodge 1349, Wood River IL, 6 p.m.

• Girl Scout Cookie Flights & Beer Release, Recess Brewing, Edwardsville IL, 12 to close.

• Valentine’s Day Couples Yoga, Vive Yoga Studio, Edwardsville IL, 6:30 p.m.

• Valentine’s Exhibit, Edwardsville Children’s Museum, Edwardsville IL, 9:30 a.m.

• Xtreme Bar Bingo, American Legion Post #199, Edwardsville IL, 7:30 p.m.

• Beer & Dessert Pairing with Tanya Ott, The Old Bakery Beer Co., Alton IL, 8 p.m.

• Valentine’s Day Couples Skate, The Loading Dock, Grafton IL, 5 p.m.

• Fireplace Friday’s, Grafton Winery the Vineyards, Grafton IL, 6 p.m.

• “Riverdance,” The Fabulous Fox, St. Louis MO, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 15 • Goshen Winter Market, Newsong Fellowship, Edwardsville IL, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

• Steak Lobster Dinner, Moose Lodge, Edwardsville IL, 6 p.m.

• Exploring Acrylics, Glen Carbon Library, Glen Carbon IL, 1 p.m.

• Winter Farmers’ Market, Senior Services Plus, Alton IL, 8 a.m.

• Piasa Park Clean-Up, Piasa Park, Alton IL, 10 a.m.

• Alton Train Show, Franklin Lodge No. 25 AF&AM, Alton IL, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• The Winery Comedy Tour, Grafton Winery & Brewhaus, Grafton IL, 7:30 p.m.

• Great Backyard Bird Count Hike and Training, Gateway Arch, St. Louis MO, 8:30 a.m.

Sunday, Feb. 16 • A Bicentennial Heritage Workshop:

A Theorem Reticule, 1820 Col. Benjamin Stephenson House, Edwardsville IL, 1 p.m.

• Philatelic Pop-Up Exhibit, Edwardsville Public Library, Edwardsville IL, 2 p.m.

• Maple Syrup Class, Willoughby Heritage Farm and Conservation Reserve, Collinsville IL, 1 p.m.

• Purina Pet Parade, Soulard, St. Louis MO, 1 p.m.

• Millet and His Modernity: From Van Gogh to Dali Lecture, Saint Louis Art Museum, St. Louis MO, 2 p.m.

• Valentine’s Brunch, Cardinals Nation, St. Louis MO, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 17 • Dine to Donate for Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Texas Roadhouse, Edwardsville IL, 3:45 to 10 p.m.

• Medicare Q & A, Glen Carbon Library, Glen Carbon IL, 6 p.m.

• Discover Day Spring 2020, Lewis and Clark Community College Commons, Godfrey IL, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• President’s Day Ice Skating, The Loading Dock, Grafton IL, 12 to 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 18 • The One with Beer and Trivia, Global Brew Tap House, Edwardsville IL, 7 p.m.

• Yoga, The Wildey Theatre, Edwardsville IL, 7 p.m.

• Parks and Recreation Trivia Night, The Back Bar, Edwardsville IL, 7 p.m.

• Swing Dancing Lessons, Glen Carbon Library, Glen Carbon IL, 6:30 p.m.

• Composting with Worms, The Nature Institute, Godfrey IL, 6 p.m.

• Storytelling in the Museum, Missouri History Museum, St. Louis MO, 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 19 • Mason Jar Workshop, Madison County Farm Bureau, Edwardsville IL, 6:30 p.m.

• Mannie Jackson Center Fundraiser & Dinner featuring Diane Rehm, SIUE Meridian Ballroom, Edwardsville IL, 6:30 p.m.

• Valentine’s Day Dance, Cedarhurst, Edwardsville IL, 4 p.m.

• Blood Drive, Glen Carbon Library, Glen Carbon IL, 2 to 6 p.m.

• Trivia Night, Old Herald Brewery and Distillery, Collinsville IL, 7 p.m.

• Schnucks Store Tour, Senior Services Plus, Alton IL, 8 a.m.

• Wine Pairing Dinner, Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center, Grafton IL, 6:30 p.m.

On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 23

PEOPLE AT THE PARTY continued from Page 21

Dominic Dorsey, director of the office for Accessible Campus Community & Equitable Student Support (ACCESS). (Scott Marion|The Edge)

The SIUE Gospel Choir performs during the opening ceremony for Black Heritage Month at SIUE. (Scott Marion|The Edge)

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see PEOPLE AT THE PARTY, Page 27

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24 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • On the Edge of the Weekend

February 14th Perfect Valentine Gift Ideas!

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Filet Mignon (32) Topped with butter poached lobster meat & Hollandaise sauce.

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Seafood Pasta (25) With shrimp, scallops & lobster. Made with a white wine cream sauce.

Brisket Mac and Cheese (18) Smoked brisket, cellanti pasta, house made cheese sauce, arugula & topped with pickled vegetable salad.

Chicken Parmesan (18) Breaded chicken, parmesan, mozzarella, marinara sauce and pasta with extra virgin olive oil, garlic butter.

Braised Boneless Short Ribs (20) Topped with a bourbon mushroom butter sauce. Served with mashed potatoes & bacon brussel sprouts.

Desserts

Strawberry Cheesecake Mousse (7) Served in a dark chocolate cup with house made strawberry sauce & whipped cream.

Chocolate Fudge Brownie (7) Topped with bourbon pecan sauce. Served with vanilla bean ice cream.

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On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 25

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On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 26

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On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 27

PEOPLE AT THE PARTY continued from Page 23

(Scott Marion|The Edge)

28 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • On the Edge of the Weekend

(Scott Marion|The Edge)

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No Surprises - on your bill. All prices must be ••Extended Warranty Work - encouraged and accepted approved by you before any work is done •• and Work Done RightSatisfaction - the first time, time 100%accepted Customer - ouronmost • 100% Customer Satisfaction - our most important goal important goal NoSurprises Surprises- on- onyouryour All prices ••No bill.bill.

All prices must must be be approved before is done approved bybyyouyou before anyany workwork is done WorkDone DoneRight Right- the- the on time ••Work firstfirst time,time, on time

OIL CHANGE

18.95 OIL CHANGE OIL CHANGE $

BEST is hard to find!

TheThe BEST is hard to find! www.edwardsvilleauto.com

Pay No Sales Tax

Any Repairs Over $250.00 www.edwardsvilleauto.com www.edwardsvilleauto.com (includes air conditioning repairs)

Pay Sales TaxTax PayNoNo Sales (Discount is equal to the sales tax) Sweetheart Special Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Excludes Tires & Oil

Changes. Must present coupon prior to service. Offer expires 9/1/18.

Any Repairs Over $250.00 Any Repairs Over $250.00 15% off (Rear) (includes air conditioning repairs) any 503 E. Vandalia • Edwardsville • 618-656-8447 $ (includes air conditioning repairs) Most cars. Must present coupon prior to service. Offer expires 9/1/18.

$ 18.95

18.95

combined with any other offer.

MostCannot cars. Mustbe present coupon prior to service. Offer expires 9/1/18.

Must present coupon prior to service.

Most cars. Must present coupon prior to2/29/20 service. Offer expires 1/31/20 9/1/18.

Offer expires

(Discount is equalover to the sales$350.00 tax) service

(Discount to theTiressales Cannot be combined with anyis otherequal offer. Excludes & Oil tax) Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Changes. Must present coupon prior&tooil service.

Offeroffer. expires 9/1/18.

Cannot be combined anychanges. other Excludes Tires & Oil Excludes tires with Must present

coupon service. expires 2/29/20 Changes.

Must prior presenttocoupon prior Offer to service.

Offer expires 9/1/18.

11/30/29

503 E. Vandalia (Rear)• Edwardsville • 618-656-8447

503 E. Vandalia (Rear)• Edwardsville • 618-656-8447

EDGE

CLASS 01

On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 29

021320

WEEKEND PROJECTS Automotive

Handyman

$$$$$$$

BOB’S HANDYMAN SERVICE

Cash

For Junk Cars

Child / Elderly Care

Need Help?

I'm your Girl!

In Home Care Of All Kinds!

618-741-5958

Pick up 7 days a week Must Have Title

618-606-7091

Apartments / Townhouses 2 bedroom apts balcony and patio units. $605-$725 977-7222 NO PETS

$$$$$$$

Building & Remodeling

DIMENSION BUILDINGS

2BR 1.5BA Townhouse Close to SIU & bike trail.

No pets. 1 year lease Glen Carbon $725-775/mo 288-9882

Remodeling & Repair Drywall Finished Carpentry Painting Ceramic Tile Build & Repair Decks Exterior House And Deck Washing Landscaping Blinds & Draperies Light Fixture & Ceiling Fans No Job Too Small

Insured

Call Bob Rose 978-8697

Best Buildings • Best Price

$3650 for 30x50 building dimensionbldgs.com

(618)997-9568

CARTER-N-HOME •Interior Painting • Wallpaper Removal • Drywall Repair Reliable & Affordable

Concrete & Masonry

Find it

618-401-8730

Brick Repair Specialist •Stone Work •Plastering •Tuckpointing Edwardsville

ANYTHING/ EVERYTHING Remove Unwanted Debris From Basement Garage, Attic; Wherever!

VeRy ReAsonABle Retired Deputy Sheriff

692-0182 Landscaping

*****************

Lawn Care Specialist • Landscaping • Gutter Cleaning • Lawn Maintenance • Power Washing • Hauling of Any Kind • Tree Trimming • Bush Trimming • Brush Removal • Insured Reasonable Rates FREE ESTIMATES

Serenity Handyman & Home Repair •Plumbing •Electrical •Painting •Decks •All Phases of Home Maintenance & Rental Updates

618-979-2606

HAUL ALMOST

Accepting New Lawns

Handyman

Free Estimates

Rock, Sand, or Dirt ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Call (618)372-3210

*****************

Jess

All Work Guaranteed 25+ Years Of Experience

BUDDE TRUCKING

C.S. LAWN CARE & SERVICES

618-917-8035

in the

Hauling & Trucking

618-250-5025

Classifieds

Painting & Wallpaper

BRAVE

PAINTING Qu a Wo lity rk

• Wallpaper • Specialty Painting • Inside or Outside Work • Power Washing • Deck Refinishing

Call 444-0293 JIM'S PAINTING & POWER WASHING Interior & Exterior 25 Years Experience HUGE WINTER DISCOUNTS Town Houses, Apartment Buildings, & Rental Properties We Paint, Stain, & Power Wash Houses, Mobile Homes, Fences, Decks, Garage, Pole Barns, Rental Properties, Apartment Buildings, Everything!

We'll make it look new again!

•Senior Discounts •Free Estimates •Fully Insured & Licensed

618-606-4693

30 • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • On the Edge of the Weekend

EDGE

CLASS 02

021320

WEEKEND PROJECTS Plumbing

Roofing & Siding

Roofing & Siding

Voted Best of the Best 2014, 2015, 2016 & 2017

RYAN CONSTRUCTION & ROOFING • Roofing • Gutters • Room Additions •Basement Remodel •Siding •Sun Porches Locally Established 1985 Storm Damage/ Insurance Claims Welcomed.

FREE ESTIMATES

NOLAN'S CONTRACTING

Remodeling & Repairs

All exterior remodeling. Free estimates. No Money Down!

Lifetime Warranty, Licensed, Bonded, & Insured.

(618)910-2514 (618)377-6344

ROB'S ROOFING All types of Roofing/Repairs.

For quick reliable service.

Free Estimates (618)259-0457 or (618)540-9604

(618)792-1300 Licensed, Insured & Bonded

Tree Service

• Fully Insured •Free Fire Wood & Wood Chips •Free Estimates •Master Card, Visa, & Discover Accepted • A+ Rated With Better Business Bureau www.allantreeservice.com

(618)254-7507

Tree Service

Tree Service

DEX’S

TREE SERVICE •Fully Insured •83’ Backyard Crawler-Fits through 3’ gate •Tree Trimming •Tree Removal •Stump Removal •Storm Clean-up •Bush Trimming •Crane Service

LOWESTSPECIALS PRICES SPRING

Free Estimates www.dexstreeservice.com

618-977-5037

Classifieds that work online Landscaping

Specializing in: mobile

Licensed, Insured & Bonded.

in print YOUR LOCAL NEWS. YOUR WAY.

To find out more, call or go online and subscribe today!

• • • •

Retaining Walls Paver Patios, Sidewalks Landscape Removal/Installation Power Washing Houses, Fences, Decks, Concrete • Painting/Staining Houses, Fences, Decks • Driveway Rocking

• • • • •

Mulching Dirt Work Bush Trimming Gutter Cleaning Lawn Mowing, Trimming, Aerating, Fertilizing • Fence Installation • Building of Decks and Sheds

Fully Insured!

Free Estimates!

Give us a call, WE DO IT ALL!

618-600-5222

EDGE

CLASS 03

On the Edge of the Weekend • Thursday, February 13, 2020 • 31

021320

WEEKEND PROJECTS Cleaning & Maintenance

Foundation Repair

Celebrate!

DIRTY JOBS •Houses G o o d Prices •Attics •Basements •Garages •Barns •Rental Properties •Hoarding •Crime Scene Cleanup

You got a mess?

Anything dirty, nasty, or stinky I’m the guy for you!

618-974-8234

Crafts

February 1st

is our 40th Anniversary!

Your local waterproofing & foundation repair company.

• A+ BBB Rating • Certified Technicians • Fully Insured

Foundation Problems?

Basements & Crawlspaces 10% Winter Discount Must present at time of estimate.

Can not be combined with another offer. Expires 2-28-2020

Winter Check List

Cracks Sealed Sump Pump Service Leaks Repaired Battery Backup Protection Bowed Walls Repaired Crawlspace Repair Downspouts Extended Settlement Corrections Call now for a FREE estimate!

372-7077

466-1240

www.MidwestBasementTech.com

The best part of 40 years is YOU….. our wonderful friends & customers.

We will be celebrating our anniversary all month long with sales.

You are invited to our anniversary celebration Friday February 21st & Saturday 22nd There will be

Refreshments - Door Prizes – In Store Specials

A&R PAINTS & CRAFTS 201 S. Main St Troy, IL 62294 618-667-6211

HOURS: Mon. & Thurs. 9:00 - 7:00 Tues. & Friday 9:00- 5:30 Sat. 9:00-3:30 Wed. & Sun. Closed

•

Our hearing healthcare experts are dedicated to providing the best patient care for our community. We work closely with each patient’s physician to ensure comprehensive treatment. We will send hearing evaluation results to any physician designated by our patient.

•

Your results belong to you. We will provide a copy of your diagnostic results to you, upon request.

•

Live Local, Care Local. There is no need to go out of town for hearing healthcare. We have four convenient locations and every member of our team is committed to providing the best care possible for every person that walks through our door.

•

We provide comprehensive audiological evaluations, tinnitus evaluations, and individualized treatment plans.

•

We utilize real ear verification measurements to guarantee your hearing aids are properly prescribed to your hearing loss.

•

No gimmicks, no pressure, and no hidden fees.

Call now to schedule your FREE evaluation with one of our hearing healthcare experts.

Chelsea Steer Au.D.

Steven Steer Au.D.

Timothy Fick AAS-HIS, BC-HIS

Don’t Miss Another Moment!

(618) 208-1124

ALTON

3511 College Ave. Alton, IL 62002

GRANITE CITY

2120 Madison Ave., Suite 108 Granite City, IL 62040

EDWARDSVILLE

123 Rottingham Ct., Suite C Edwardsville, IL 62025

MidAmericaAudiologyGroup.com

O’FALLON

807 W. Highway 50 Suite 3 O’Fallon, IL 62269