Community News
Virginia Bonino: Heritage Health Spotlight
This month’s spotlight from Heritage Health is Virginia Bonino. The 85 year old youngster has only been at Heritage Health for about three months after she broke her arm. Although she expects to go home shortly, she still proudly says the place is “very friendly.”
Virginia is just at Heritage Health for therapy. “The therapy is great,” Virginia opened. She likes everything about therapy. In fact, she does not like weekends at Heritage Health because she cannot go therapy. “All of the people are nice and really good to us!”
Born and raised right here in Gillespie, Virginia had a younger brother. Her father was a coal miner while her mother worked in a garment factory. Virginia and her brother were about 13 years apart. “I was the role model,” Virginia noted.
Virginia was able to guide her brother through school as they were quite a few years apart. Living in Gillespie, they both attended Gillespie High School. Virginia graduated in the Class of 1944 with not many graduates, as she recalled. Her favorite subject was English while Mrs. Burrows was her favorite instructor.
“I loved to read,” Virginia said, “I read everything.” Some of her favorite authors were Stephen King and David Coons, but she liked to read anything. Reading is the joy that got Virginia through life. You could always spot her with her nose in a book, but she can tell you that she has read plenty of good stories.
After high school, Virginia went to Brown’s Business College in Springfield, Illinois. She only attended the school for a year and received a few certificates. At Business College, she learned the basics like shorthand and typing. Anything that had to do with business, Virginia learned it and applied it.
When she went to college, she ended up moving to Springfield and she worked for the State of Illinois after she attended school. “I stayed there for quite some time,” Virginia said, “I was able to use all of the things I learned in college.”
Virginia then moved to Chicago years later and worked there. It was the same deal in Chicago, typeset work. She was only in the windy city for a few years and she moved back to the lower region of Illinois. While she was in the big city, she lived in the South Side. “There was more stuff to do,” Virginia said. She did say she did not bother driving around there.
Walking and taxis were the mode of transportation if you wanted to go anywhere. She enjoyed going out to eat and going to theatre plays. It was not where she belonged though as she moved back to southern Illinois years later.
She moved to Carmi, Illinois after she lived in Chicago with her husband that she wanted to remain nameless. In Carmi, Virginia began to collect stamps and coins. “I have quite a few,” Virginia noted. She holds on to everything she saved, but was not a fan of coin shows.
Coin collecting is always fun because you can always spend it if you have to, according to Virginia. She still has every coin she collected to this day. She cannot say the same thing about her stamps though as those have dwindled. Most of the coins she collected were collector’s items. She did give us a clue that most of her coins are quarters.
Outside of collecting, she played a little golf and bowling. Golf was not her first choice of hobby because she never really cared for it. They played with friends and it was never serious. “I never really cared for knocking a little ball around a field,” she laughed.
Her hobby was camping. She loved everything about camping. “We roughed it,” Virginia explained, “We just had a pitch tent and a truck. Nothing else.” She camped from Gillespie to California in a “little tent.” Virginia fondly remembers cooking the food over a fire.
She went on to explain that they always picked their camp site. Their first choice was always National Forests because they were inexpensive. At the campsite, they always went for walks and hikes. Hiking seemed to pass the most time.
When she came back to Gillespie the last time, she worked for Dr. Grandone as a receptionist. Outside of working, she did volunteer work. Much of her spare time was spent at Adopt-A-Pet. She loved animals. In fact, that is where her first dog came from. She was a Border collie and Lab.
Gloria was the name of her dog. “Everyone remembers the name of my dog, but can’t remember my name.” With the dog, she had cats as well. Cats are much easier to take care of, according to Virginia. Right now, she has three that live in house and some that live in the garage. Any pet gets neutered or spayed if they cross into Virginia’s yard.
“Don’t go there, you know what happens!” Virginia said as she referred to what the pets tell each other. She is a firm believer in spaying and neutering pets to prevent unwanted ones that end up spending the rest of their life in a shelter. Most of the older people have cats because they just need a litter box to clean, according to Virginia.
I think I gained weight since I have been here because I eat anything that is in front of me, Virginia said of Heritage Health. She went on to note that the food is excellent. The best part about Heritage Health is the bird feeder right outside of her window. “I love watching the birds and how they chase each other away,” Virginia noted.
Virginia plans to go back home in the next few weeks. “I have three cats waiting for me to come home,” Virginia closed. But for the time being, she loves Heritage Health and loves the staff. “They are so nice and friendly to me, it has been great!”
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FELONIES
Austin C. Drake, 30 of Girard, is charged with theft/unauthorized control (>$500<$10k) and bad checks/obtaining control of property in connection with a September 22 and an October 7 incident.
William C. Cooper, 41 of Gillespie, is charged with burglary in connection with a November 1 incident.
Joseph L. Schnurr, 63 of De Soto, Mo, is charged with aggravated fleeing in connection with a November 26 incident.
Derek J. Bultema, 40 of Gillespie, is charged with possession of methamphetamine in connection with a November 26 incident.
Brandon A. Martin, 26 of Wood River, is charged with aiding/abetting/possession/selling a stolen vehicle and aggravated fleeing in connection with a November 26 incident.
MISDEMEANORS
Richard J. Williams, 44 of Staunton, is charged with criminal trespass to a vehicle in connection with a November 14 incident.
Ryne L. Manion, 41 of Mt. Olive, is charged with criminal trespass to a building in connection with a November 20 incident.
TRAFFIC
Terence L. Binion, 51 of University City, MO, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 22 incident.
Andrew J. Goewey, 34 of Sawyerville, is charged with driving on a revoked license and driving 21-25 mph above the limit in connection with a November 22 incident.
Teresa J. Niewiadomski, 47 of Bethalto, is charged with driving on a suspended license, expired registration, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with a November 19 incident.
Keona D. Roos, 22 of Freeburg, is charged with driving on a suspended license, improper use of registration/title, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and no valid registration in connection with a November 21 incident.
Zachary A. Johnston, 44 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 23 incident.
Alexis R. Spann, 32 of Auburn, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with a November 19 incident.
Alicia N. Tamosaitis, 29 of Girard, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 19 incident.
Justin A. Collins, 37 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 20 incident.
DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE FILED
- Allan L. Petit versus Teresa M. Pettit
Comments
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of West Wilson Street in reference to a domestic battery. Ashley A. Esmon, 39 of Staunton, was arrested for domestic battery.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Springfield Road and Calcari Street in East Gillespie. Angel L. Bricker, 22 of East Alton, was cited for operating an uninsured vehicle and driving while registration was suspended.
An officer was dispatched to Spruce Street and Laura Street in reference to a noise complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of East Elm Street in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Charles Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Macoupin Street and Elm Street. Zachary A. Johnston, 44 of Gillespie, was issued a citation for driving while license was revoked.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 400 block of East Central in Benld in reference to suspicious activity.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Cloud Street in reference to a domestic dispute. Steven O. Smith, 36 of Chicago, was arrested on a warrant out of Chicago on a weapons charge.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Abba Street in reference to theft and criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to criminal damage to property and criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Charles Street in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a 911 call.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of West Wilson Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of East Locust Street in Benld in reference to the removal of a subject.
An officer was dispatched to Circle Drive at Gillespie Lake in reference to an alarm sounding.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Penny Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to South 2nd Street in Benld in reference to unwanted solicitors.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2025
An Officer was dispatched to the 900 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Macoupin Street and Easton Street. Joseph L. Schnurr, 63 of Eagarville, was arrested for reckless driving, fleeing/eluding a peace officer, squealing tires, failing to obey a stop sign, improper use of registration, and operating an uninsured vehicle.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer spoke with a female at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 300 block of South Illinois Street in Benld.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to a suicidal subject.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street in reference to a fire alarm sounding.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Avenue in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Horizon Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Henry Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Cedar Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Francis Street in reference to a 911 call
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Henrietta Street in reference to an animal complaint.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Walnut Street in Benld in reference to a theft.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare in reference to disorderly conduct.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Central in Benld in reference to juvenile issues.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a reckless driver.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Central Avenue in Benld in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer spoke with a male on Dorsey Road in Mt. Clare in reference to a vehicle that was parked on the lot for a few days.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2025
An officer was dispatched to West Central Street and North Trolley Street in Benld in reference to a traffic crash.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Lynn Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street at Gillespie High School in reference to the fire alarm sounding.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Comments
Ye Olde Christmas is the theme of the Macoupin County Historical Society’s annual Christmas Show, which will be held Friday through Sunday, December 5–7, at the John C. Anderson Home and Museum, 920 West Breckenridge in Carlinville.
“The Christmas Show is one of the most magical times to visit the Anderson Home,” said MCHS Board Member and House Manager Brandy England. “Some families make it an annual Christmas tradition to visit the Anderson Home when it is decorated for Christmas. It’s a great opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit and pick up some ideas for decorating your own home for the holidays.”
MCHS member Kendra Mize, of Bunker Hill, who has coordinated the decorating effort for more than two decades, has again marshalled a small army of volunteers to decorate all 13 rooms of the home. Each room features a themed Christmas tree, along with mantle pieces, centerpieces, tabletop decor, garlands and florals, and other special touches.
The home will be open for self-guided tours from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, December 5; from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, December 6; and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 7.
“We’re very excited to offer for the first time candlelight tours from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday,” said Shawna Ashby, who serves as a co-manager with England. “Viewing the decorated home by candlelight promises to be a magical experience.”
The final candlelight tours on Friday and Saturday start at 7:30 p.m. Admission to the home is five dollars for adults and one dollar for children ages five to 12, with four-year-olds and younger admitted free of charge.
The Anderson Home Gift Shop will be open during tour hours, offering one-of-a-kind gift items and stocking stuffers. Santa Claus will be on hand in the downstairs parlor to greet children and listen to their Christmas wishes from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 6.
While the decorated home is the centerpiece of the Christmas Show, several other features on the Historical Society’s grounds will be open. The Red Barn will be open and serving hearty beef stew, chili, homemade pies, and warming holiday beverages such as wassail and hot chocolate on Friday and Saturday.
The General Store and Print Shop will be decorated and open to the public, with the Print Shop offering its popular handmade Christmas cards and other items produced in the shop; kids can print their own blank “Santa List” to keep track of their Christmas wishes.
“The General Store offers unique gift items, including some small antiques, for shoppers to peruse,” England noted.
Local blacksmiths will demonstrate their craft in the MCHS Blacksmith Shop located on the north side of the Historical Society Grounds, with wrought iron gift items, including stocking hooks and decorative pieces, available for purchase.
The Macoupin County Historical Society’s Christmas Show runs concurrently with the Carlinville Christmas Market and Downtown Christmas events, and a free trolley and shuttle buses include the Anderson Home as a regular stop during the festivals, enabling visitors to ride from the square or the Macoupin County Fairgrounds to the Historical Society grounds.
