Sydney Sinks grew up in the Riverbend area and graduated from Southwestern High School. She received a bachelor’s degree from Millikin University in 2022, where she majored in English-Writing with concentrations in journalism and professional writing and a minor in editing.
At Millikin, Sydney wrote and edited for The Decaturian and BURST Magazine. Her writing has also been published in Decatur Magazine, Gateway Journalism Review and others. She has received recognition from the Illinois College Press Association and the Society of Professional Journalists for her work.
EDWARDSVILLE - Elementary schoolers in Edwardsville had a fun night of mathematics, games and engagement at their recent K–5 Math Night. On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 elementary school students and their families could come to Lincoln Middle...
O’FALLON - Ellison Camfield is a determined student. For her hard work, Ellison Camfield is a College Prep Station Student of the Month for O’Fallon Township High School. Camfield, a senior, is a member of Future Business Leaders of America. She has served as the president o...
BETHALTO - Grant Shirley is a well-rounded student. For his hard work, Grant Shirley is a DD Homes Network Student of the Month for Civic Memorial High School. Shirley, a senior, has played in the school’s marching and concert bands since his freshman year. He loves music and collaborating...
GODFREY - Vitality Women’s Clinic has several volunteer opportunities available. Vitality Women’s Clinic is a pro-life, faith-based pregnancy center that works with individuals experiencing unplanned pregnancies. Executive Director Jackie Duty, Center Manager Lori Saunders, and...
GLEN CARBON - Gretchen Ertel gives 110% to everything she does. For her hard work, Gretchen Ertel is a Student of the Month for Father McGivney Catholic High School. Ertel, a senior, serves as the Joan of Arc House Leader. This position requires a lot of responsibility, which Ertel demonstrates....
GLEN CARBON - Matthew Halbrook is a natural leader. For his accomplishments, Matthew Halbrook is a Student of the Month for Father McGivney Catholic High School. Halbrook, a senior, is a captain of the varsity boys volleyball team and serves as a huddle leader with the Fellowship of Christian...
ALTON - Seventy-five Alton High School juniors were inducted into the National Honor Society, a major accomplishment. On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, families and staff members crowded the school’s auditorium to watch the induction ceremony. Advisor Angela Laaker noted that the organization...
ALTON - Graceful Treasures will kick off their flea market season this weekend. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, community members can stop by the warehouse at Milton Schoolhouse for a flea market sponsored by the vintage store Graceful Treasures. Owner Kimberly Grace encourages...
ELSAH - Principia College will host their annual Dance Production with the theme “Seasons of Life” this weekend. At 8 p.m. on April 16, 17 and 18, 2026, and 2 p.m. on April 18, 2026, community members can come to the Duvall Theatre in the McVay Center for the Performing Arts on Principia’s...
GODFREY - A local physician assistant has some advice on how to manage your health this spring, whether you’re navigating allergies, experiencing increased stress levels, or simply trying to make the healthiest choices you can. Lucas Edwards works for OSF St. Anthony’s Health Center...
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