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.
GLEN CARBON - Erin Kretzer is a natural leader. For her hard work, Erin Kretzer is a Student of the Month for Father McGivney Catholic High School. Kretzer, a senior, has been a player on the school’s soccer team since her freshman year and currently serves as captain. She is a member...
GLEN CARBON - Andrew Nohl is dedicated to his studies. For his accomplishments, Andrew Nohl is a Student of the Month for Father McGivney Catholic High School. Nohl, a senior, has been a member of the National Honor Society since his sophomore year. This organization requires high grades and...
ILLINOIS - A local cafeteria worker is advocating for free healthy school meals for all kids in Illinois. Shelly Wuellner has traveled to Washington, D.C. five times in the past few years with the Illinois Healthy School Meals for All coalition. Her most recent trip was “one of the most...
ALTON - Elementary students had an exciting kickoff to a week of standardized testing. On Monday, March 23, 2026, North Elementary School students and staff gathered for a “Rock the Test” pep rally as the students prepared to take the Illinois Assessment for Readiness (IAR). This...
EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education spoke about Board expectations and goals during their regular meeting on Monday, March 23, 2026. Interim Superintendent Dr. Allen Duncan started the meeting with his Superintendent’s Report, which included...
ALTON - Alton Community Service League will host their biggest fundraiser of the year to assist local nonprofits. From 7–10 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, community members can stop by Alton VFW Post #1308 for an evening of swing dancing and live music. This year’s dance/concert...
PIASA - Olivia Schneider works hard in all she does. For her success, Olivia Schneider is a Student of the Month for Southwestern High School. Schneider, a senior, has danced competitively for 13 years. It takes a lot of dedication and skill to be so committed to a sport, but Schneider balances...
PIASA - Keeley Shoemaker is an incredibly involved student. For her accomplishments, Keeley Shoemaker is a Student of the Month for Southwestern High School. Shoemaker, a junior, has played varsity soccer since her freshman year. She also runs cross country and track. She is a member of the...
HIGHLAND - Donnie Miller is a natural leader. For his accomplishments, Donnie Miller is a Platinum Transportation Student of the Month for Highland High School. Miller, a senior, loves to run and participates on the cross country and track and field teams. He was part of the first-ever Highland...
HIGHLAND - Sophie Schroeder manages sports and school with grace. For her hard work, Sophie Schroeder is a Platinum Transportation Student of the Month for Highland High School. Schroeder, a senior, has played varsity basketball since her freshman year. She received Athlete of the Month recognitio...
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