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.
CARLINVILLE - There’s a new vodka soda brand on the market, and its founders are proud to start up in their local hometown. Greenhead, a premium vodka soda brand, got its start in Carlinville with business partner Josh Carnduff and Alec Benting. The drinks have a “clean, crisp taste”...
It’s the holidays, and what better time than now to reconnect with old friends? I can be bad about texting back. In fact, my friends tease me about this. I can go weeks without responding. It’s not cute. Actually, it’s probably very annoying. I don’t know why I’m...
ALTON - Community members are invited to the Alton Eagle Ice Festival in January, where you can meet live eagles, watch fire performers, enjoy an ice-carving competition, and more. From 5–10 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 2, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, various locations across...
O’FALLON - Glass LoBue has worked hard throughout their high school years. For their accomplishments, Glass LoBue is a College Prep Station Student of the Month for O’Fallon Township High School. LoBue, a senior, has been a part of the school’s cross country team since...
ALTON - The K Miller Foundation will host its sixth annual toy giveaway to celebrate the holidays. From 12–3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, at the Mineral Springs Banquet Center in Alton, you can pick out toys for your children and enjoy several activities and treats. There are no income...
BETHALTO - Precision Point Armory offers firearm training and classes for everyone, from the total beginner to the advanced shooter. Ben Julian, owner of Precision Point Armory, decided to start his business because he saw how many people were intimidated by firearms. As someone who is passionate...
ALTON - Mackenzie Cochran is a dedicated student. For her accomplishments, Mackenzie Cochran is a Hayner Public Library District Student of the Month for Alton High School. Cochran, a senior, has played volleyball since her freshman year. She loves volleyball and was awarded the Academic...
GODFREY - DK Dance Productions will host their annual Holiday Show this weekend. On Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, dancers will perform at Hatheway Hall at Lewis and Clark Community College. Dancers from the DK Dance Productions Alton location will perform at 11 a.m., followed by a 1 p.m. performance...
HIGHLAND - Layna Powers is a well-rounded student. For her accomplishments, Layna Powers is a Platinum Transportation Student of the Month for Highland High School. Powers, a senior, has competed on the cross country and track and field teams for three years. She loves running and has completed...
HIGHLAND - Annie Etter works hard to succeed. For her dedication, Annie Etter is a Platinum Transportation Student of the Month for Highland High School. Etter, a senior, has been a leader since early in her high school career. She has served as an Ambassador for two years, guiding underclassmen...
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