My Prayers For Those Along The Mighty Mississippi River  This picture is of a granary right on the Mississippi River in Alton, Illinios. Alton is the landing place for those coming across the river from St Louis. I went to college a few miles up the River and that's where my son attends also.I haven't found any pictures of the little Village of Elsah, but I know they are flooded also. The college, Principia College is high on the bluffs, so I know they are safe, but we have a real connection to the small towns around us.Tragic!One of the things that makes me the saddest is that the kids aren't in school right now to help. I remember when I was a student heading down to help sandbag the residents of Elsah, Alton and Grafton. Principia has a great sense of community. The students would b... 12/31/2015

"Forgivable" Home Loans for Alton, IL Home Buyers Do you need cash to buy your own home?  I know a lot of people who have no problem making the monthly payment on a home.  But coming up with the downpayment and/or closing costs can be difficult.  Don't give up hope. The City of Alton's Department of Development & Housing has a  program called the "HOMEOWNERSHIP PROGRAM".  If you qualify, they will contribute up to 5% of the purchase price or $3,000 whichever is less.  This program is primarily for low to moderate income households who are looking to buy a home in Alton.  For more information, call The Alton Department of Development & Housing (618) 463-3801 They could be your key to owning your own home.             09/13/2009

I recently hosted an open house in Alton, Illinois that was one of the most educational that I've every done.  The homeowner had photos and small cards with information placed all over the house for visitors to familiarize themselves with the history of the house. The history not only included how and when updates were made, but also included framed photos in strategically placed areas of the original family that built the home in the early 1900's with historical information on the family. The information answered many of the questions for my visitors who became intrigued at reading each and every card on display.  I picked up two good leads when I was able to add information that I was familiary with for the area surrounding the house. As a former history teacher and a genealogy buff, ... 02/15/2009

January is one of the greatest months on the calendar here in Southwestern Illinois. Ok, I can hear you. "Nancy, are you crazy? It's cold. Sometimes it snows or ices. Christmas is over and Mardi Gras isn't here yet. There's nothing good about January, so what the heck are you talking about?" I'm talking about the eagles, my friends. American Bald Eagles makes their winter home here on the Mississippi River. They build massive nests in the tall trees near the Father of Waters and spend the days fishing and gliding on air currents above the tall limestone bluffs. There's nothing like seeing one of these American treasures soaring overhead. It truly is a breath-taking experience. To see these majestic creatures, just drive up the Great River Road, beginning in Alton and continuing through ... 01/11/2009