Community News
SamJam raised $102,000 in remarkable 10-year run
CARLINVILLE – Throughout its ten-year run, the SamJam concert series became a cherished annual event in Macoupin County. The concerts helped a lot of people, too.
SanJam4NF, Inc., the organization that mounted the SamJam concerts, recently announced that the final concert, held in April, resulted in a $10,000 donation to NF Midwest.
With that gift, the organization exceeded its decade-long goal, contributing a total of $102,000 to support research and services for people living with neurofibromatosis (NF).
The SamJam event was created in 2014 to honor Sam Oswald, a 40-year-old Carlinville resident who has endured years of struggle with NF, which affects 1 in every 2,500 worldwide.
NF is most often noticed in childhood or early adulthood, and appears equally across sexes, races, and ethnic groups. Though less familiar to the general public, more patients suffer from NF than muscular dystrophy, Tay-Sachs disease, and Huntington’s disease combined.
Over the past ten years, SamJam became a beloved community tradition, raising awareness of NF as it drew support from across Illinois and beyond.
All proceeds from SamJam have supported NF Midwest, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children, adults, and families affected by NF in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and eastern Missouri.
The success of SamJam is cause for celebration, and Peter Oswald, Sam’s father and the festival organizer, looks back with tremendous gratitude.
“The 2025 SamJam’s Finale marks the end of a ten-year run,” said Peter Oswald. “With rising expenses and volunteer demands, it became increasingly difficult to continue. But we are deeply grateful for the support we received from our community, sponsors, and donors throughout the years.”
Those sentiments are echoed by Peter Oswald II, Sam’s brother and a fellow organizer. “What started as a small local celebration grew into a larger annual event,” he said. “Our sponsors and donors have been incredibly generous, and we’re proud to have combined great music with a meaningful cause.”
Throughout its ten years, SamJam hosted 38 bands and 161 musicians, presenting 66 hours of live progressive bluegrass, Americana, and blues on stage at the Macoupin County Fairgrounds near Carlinville and The Rustic Venues, near Girard. Artists came from across the Midwest and as far away as Colorado, Tennessee, and New York to perform.
Sam Oswald’s story remained at the heart of the festival. Since he was diagnosed with NF at age four, Sam has battled spinal fusion, two brain tumors, shunt revisions, bone grafting on both legs, knee surgery, dermal tumor removal, and eye surgery.
Despite facing numerous surgeries, chemotherapy, and ongoing medical challenges, Sam has continued to live independently, and inspire others with his resilience and positivity. He says that giving back was the message of SamJam.
“Supporting SamJam has been about more than just great music,” said Sam Oswald. “It’s been about standing with patients and families dealing with neurofibromatosis.
“I’ve considered myself to be very lucky with a supportive family and friends,” continued Sam. “I’m proud that our supporters have helped us reach such a great fundraising goal, and we know the funds raised will continue to make a real difference in the lives of those facing NF.”
The board of directors of SamJam4NF, Inc. were integral in managing and organizing the annual events. The board includes Peter Oswald, Steve Boente, Lee LoBue, Peter Oswald II, Rick Fehr, and Jono Verticchio.
The 2025 SamJam’s Finale was made possible by generous sponsors, including Wall Street Financial Group, The Goodman Agency, CNB Bank & Trust, Verticchio Law Office, Carlinville CPA Group, and Carlin Villa Motel. Player sponsors were Carlinville Eye Care, Heinz Furniture, Main Street Florist, Sleepy Dino Books, Crowe Boot & Shoe Co., Kahl’s Greenhouse, Starr’s Primal Meats, and Mark Oswald, RE/MAX Innovative.
Individual 2025 SamJam donors were Rick & Peg Fehr, Richard Oswald, Chris Schmitt, Carl Zeidler, Deb & Ray McNamara, Greg & Deb Wiles, Julia Strehlow, Jean Laverty, Judith Leitschuh, Charlie Strehlow, Kim and Nancy Walton, Jessica Davis, Steve Boente, Mike Genta, Deb Russell, Becky Doyle, Randy and Mary Tinder, Tim and Susan Millard, Ed and Beth Hammann, Anna Holmes, Lige Daley, Mark and Nikki Harris, Meghan Allen, Carl and Donna Kasten, Bill Armstrong, Greg Heinz, Bob and Becky Lane, Becky Armstrong, Jill Schwab, Becky Mills, Dave and Denise Boente, Jackie Dunn, Shelley Weitekamp, Karen Dworzynski, Jeff and Arleen Haselhorst, Mik Smith, Al Wilhite, Jim and Janie Ashworth, Sandy Bowman, Vicki Hebron, Jane Reichmann, Mark Donaldson, Lee LoBue, Pam Dilley, Richard Schien, Don Hamilton, The Rustic Venues, Kristin Guehlstorf, Tim and Shellie Roberts, Elizabeth Herndon, Anne Boehm, Debbie Davis, Gary and Cindy Tipps, CUMC, Marilyn Snyder, Ron and Martha Young, Chris Powell, Ed and Cynthia Lamar, Clay, Shawn, and Cal Schmitt, Jim and Nancy Schien, and Cindy Geninatti.
To continue supporting NF research and patient services, donations can be made directly to NF Midwest at www.nfmidwest.org.
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FELONIES
Austen W. Nieder, 31 of Gillespie, is charged with aggravated battery in a public place in connection with an October 20 incident.
Nathan A. Baker, 47 of Hettick, is charged with obstructing justice/destroying evidence, driving under the influence of alcohol, and illegal stopping/standing/parking in connection with an April 13 incident.
Teresa K. Tucker, 83 of Benld, is charged with aggravated battery/use of a deadly weapon and domestic battery causing bodily harm in connection with an October 26 incident.
Janet L. Andrews, 44 of Gillespie, is charged with possession of a controlled substance, DUI any amount of drug, driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to reduce speed, carrying/displaying license, and transporting/carrying alcohol/driver in connection with an October 31 incident.
MISDEMEANORS
Jamie M. Griffiths, 53 of Palmyra, is charged with violation of an order after being served a notice in connection with an October 24 incident.
TRAFFIC
Aiden A. Knodel, 18 of Mount Olive, is charged with speeding 26-34 mph over the limit in connection with an October 17 incident.
Matthew T. Troeckler, 38 of Mount Olive, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with an October 18 incident.
James C. Fitzwater, 54 of Mount Olive, is charged with driving on a revoked license and disregarding a stop sign in connection with an October 18 incident.
John E. Tisdale, 43 of Modesto, is charged with headlight violation and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with an October 27 incident.
DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE FILED
- Jacquelyn Simons versus Jason Simons
- Ashline L. M. Harris versus Jeffrey Harris
- Jennifer L. Parker versus Darrin C. Parker
- Heather R. Elliot versus Ray K. Elliot III
MARRIAGE LICENSES
- Jesse Clay Wright and Rebecca Lyn Mouser, both of Gillespie
- Colin David Robertson and Earl Reah Pastidio Sacabin, both of Staunton
- Gary Eugene Bellm and Micky Sue Cody, both of Virden
- Michael David Pratt and Bailey Ann Schmidt, both of Staunton
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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2025
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Springfield Road and Litchfield Road in East Gillespie. Cheri L. Bagwell, 48 of Carlinville, was arrested for operating a vehicle with a suspended driver’s license, improper use of title, operating an uninsured vehicle, and operating a vehicle without valid registration.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Street in Benld in reference to a domestic battery. Teresa K. Tucker, 83 of Benld, was arrested for aggravated domestic battery.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of South Madison Street in reference to a death investigation.
Skylar A. Stewart, 33 of Gillespie, was arrested on a Macoupin County warrant for failure to appear for methamphetamine delivery.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of East Central Avenue in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 300 block of North Kentucky in Benld.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a juvenile issue that took place in the 100 block of North Macoupin Street.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Street in Benld in reference to a 911 call.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of North Illinois Street in Benld in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of West Wilson Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Spruce Street in reference to illegal burning.
An officer was dispatched to Fillmore Street and Burton Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of East Burton Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to 6th Street in Benld in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Oak Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of North 8th Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of North 5th Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute. Peyton R. Pehrson, 26 of Benld, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Olive Street in reference to a death investigation.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of East Easton Street in reference to an ordinance issue. Richard D. Grove, 76 of Gillespie ,was issued a citation for nuisance prohibited-obstructed alleyway.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and Hard Road in Benld. Summer J. Blevins, 24 of Gillespie, was issued citations for uninsured vehicle and suspended registration.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South 1st Street in Benld in reference to a civil issue.
An officer was dispatched to Burton Street and Fillmore Street in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of South 5th Street in Benld in reference to a domestic dispute. Lucas I. Smith, 35, of Benld was arrested for domestic battery.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Henrietta Street in reference to a medical call.
An officer initiated a traffic stop in the 2300 block of Staunton Road in Benld. Jessica M. Brackman, 34 of Gillespie, was arrested on a Madison County warrant for fraud/bad checks. She was also issued a citation for expired registration.
Douglas D. Davis, 58 of Pekin, was arrested on a Macoupin County warrant for failure to appear for driving while license was revoked.
Melissa J. Hughes, 50 of Benld, was arrested on a Macoupin County warrant for failure to appear for theft.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Central in Benld, in reference to an animal complaint
An officer was out on North Main Street in Benld in reference to a motorist assist.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to reckless driving in the 300 block of North 6th Street in Benld.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to assisting Animal Control with a call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Henrietta Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Central Avenue in Benld in reference to a medical assist.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Maple Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Central Avenue and Walnut in Benld. Donald E. Bruhn, 66 of Gillespie, was issued a citation for driving while license was revoked.
An officer assisted the City Alderman at Gillespie Lake on a call in the 15000 block of Oak Ln.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Broadway Street in reference to a battery. James J. Hamilton, 19 of Brighton, was issued citations for battery and illegal consumption by a minor. Joshua T. Reese, 19 of Jerseyville, was issued citations for battery and illegal consumption by a minor. Kyle T. Yate, 19 of Wood River, was issued citations for battery and illegal consumption by a minor.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Berry Street in Mt. Clare in reference to an altercation and a suspicious vehicle.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Macoupin Street and Elm Street. Jessica M. McCoy, 27 of Eagarville was issued a citation for driving while license was suspended.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Springfield Road and Mor Street in East Gillespie. Teresa C. Dickerson, 45 of Mt. Olive ,was issued a citation for speeding.
An officer was dispatched to the 800 block of Harding Avenue in East Gillespie in reference to an ordinance issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Shelby Street in reference to a violation of an order of protection.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of South 6th Street in Benld in reference to an assault.
An officer was dispatched to South 2nd Street in Benld in reference to an alarm sounding.
An officer was dispatched to Kentucky Street in Benld in reference to reckless driving.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Elm Street to speak with a female in reference to criminal trespass.
An officer was dispatched to Big Brick Park in reference to juvenile issues.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Gillespie Street in reference to a neighbor dispute.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a criminal trespass warning.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie. Thor S. Barnes, 45 of Benld, was arrested for criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Chestnut Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Broadway Street in reference to a dog running at large.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of South 4th Street in Benld in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to East Chestnut Street and 2nd Street in Benld in reference to a suspicious noise.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of South Illinois Street in Benld in reference to a civil issue.
An officer was dispatched to South Macoupin Street and West Burton Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer spoke with a male at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 200 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie.
An Officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Walnut in reference to an unwanted solicitor.
An Officer was dispatched to 5th Street in Benld in reference to reckless driving.
An Officer was dispatched to the 400 block of East Maple Street in reference to a suspicious vehicle.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Believed to be First Work Solely Dedicated to Illinois in the Revolution
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