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.
MADISON COUNTY - As local communities consider data center projects, Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser answers a few questions about what a data center could mean for the community. Troy and Granite City have both made headlines as city officials weigh the pros and cons of data centers....
ALTON - The City of Alton is officially kicking off its 40 Days of Nonviolence initiative to support local youth. On Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, city officials and representatives with the 40 Days of Nonviolence organization spoke about the initiative and plans to provide students with 40 days of...
ALTON - Community members have the opportunity to support the Alton Athletic Association at their upcoming music trivia night. On Feb. 28, 2026, at St. Mary’s Suddes Hall in Alton, the AAA will host their annual music trivia to support Alton Community Unit School District #11 athletes....
GODFREY - ABS Workout Plans will host their third annual health fair next weekend. From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, community members can stop by ABS Workout Plans at 620 Armsway in Godfrey to chat with vendors, tour the gym and learn more about different wellness regimens....
MADISON COUNTY - Local officials, school administrators and librarians are celebrating the launch of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Madison County. On Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, community members came together at the Madison County Regional Office of Education for a ceremony to mark...
ALTON - Calvary Christian School is offering several open houses and admissions opportunities for interested families. Located at Calvary Baptist Church in Alton, the school follows a four-day classical Christian model. Head of School Pastor Wade Dobson and Children’s Pastor Mike Harrelson...
ALTON - A local woman is calling attention to Alton through a one-woman protest outside of City Hall. Dorothy Moss began her daily protests outside of City Hall on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026. She took a break on Wednesday but was back at it on Thursday, Jan. 15, with neon green signs and a message...
ALTON - Community members have several upcoming opportunities to support the Overnight Warming Locations. On Jan. 15, 2026, Old Bakery Beer Company will host their monthly “Drink for a Cause” night, where proceeds from drink sales go to the Overnight Warming Locations (OWLs). People...
GODFREY/MARYVILLE - Gerard Fischer has announced his retirement from American Family Insurance, and two local agents will take his place at his Godfrey and Maryville offices. Fischer has served the Riverbend region for over 30 years as an insurance agent. His final day is Feb. 20, 2026. Jessica...
ALTON/GODFREY - Zeke Jabusch, the North Alton-Godfrey Business Council’s president, shared more about his goals for the organization going forward. NAGBC meets once a month at various businesses across the Riverbend. Entrepreneurs, business owners and community leaders are invited to...
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