Dan Brannan is Content Director of RiverBender and EdGlenToday.com. Dan started at Riverbender.com/Edglentoday.com in December 2014. He is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, IL with degrees in Journalism and Psychology. Having previously served as the Executive Editor of The Telegraph in Alton, his 17-year tenure led the paper to over 350 awards including several General Excellence awards in the Illinois Press Association, Illinois Associated Press, Freedom Communications, Southern Illinois Editorial Association and Journal Register Company contests. Brannan was chosen to lead Freedom Communications' national pilot on social media.
He is the author of eight nonfiction books including: "The Courage to Live," a biography about Donna Gustavel, a young woman with multiple disabilities; "Everyday Angels," an inspirational book of moving human interest stories; "Live Life to the Fullest: Stories of People Coping With Diabetes" which is endorsed by the American Diabetes Association; "Boy Giant: The Story of Robert Wadlow The World's Tallest Man;" "Damn Cold and Starving" written with Sgt. Marion Ray; "You Can't Kill the Dream" co-written with fellow journalist Ande Yakstis; and "A Life in Parts," the story of Loretta Goebel and endorsed by Beatle Paul McCartney.
Dan, an avid exercise enthusiast, is a member of the American Diabetes Association and lives in Maryville. Dan has two children in college - Savannah and Sierra.
GRANITE CITY - Monica Cooper, of Granite City, a beloved mother and friend, died unexpectedly on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025, after a brief battle with pneumonia. She was 42 years old. Cooper is remembered for her vibrant personality and infectious laughter. Described as a dynamic and fun-loving individual,...
COLLINSVILLE - Senior Taylor Dawson has signed a letter of intent to join Lindenwood University’s wrestling team, marking an exciting step in her athletic career. Dawson has been a nationally acclaimed wrestler in her high school career and is favored to once again advance to the IHSA State...
EDWARDSVILLE - The Chick-fil-A restaurant located at 2319 Troy Road, Edwardsville, temporarily closed due to a boil order on Thursday morning, Feb. 6, 2025. However, at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, the restaurant reopened, initially with drive-thru only. In a statement, Chick-fil-A expressed its commitment...
ALTON — A move this week by Mac's Pizza and Poker to donate lunch to the Alton Police Department is a prime example of what a business can do to fully serve the community. The Alton Police Department expressed gratitude this week to Mac's Pizza and Poker for providing lunch to officers, highlighting...
ST. LOUIS COUNTY — The St. Louis County Police Department is investigating a shooting that led to the death of a 14-year-old male in the 11000 block of Criterion Avenue in St. Louis County. The incident occurred on Jan. 26, 2025, at approximately 4:15 p.m., when police responded to a call regardin...
EAST ST. LOUIS – Three men were sentenced to prison for their roles in a scheme involving counterfeit credit and debit cards used to defraud gas station patrons. U.S. District Judge Stephen P. McGlynn imposed the sentences on Monday in southern Illinois, highlighting the seriousness...
EDWARDSVILLE - It was also a historic night for the Kahoks, as senior forward Talesha Gilmore hit a basket in the lane with 6:45 left in the fourth quarter, becoming the third Collinsville player to reach 1,500 points in her career. Gilmore shortly added a three to give her 10 points for the night,...
FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS — TGI Fridays has permanently closed its doors after nearly 30 years of operation at 6900 N. Illinois St. in Fairview Heights, as confirmed by signs on the restaurant doors and the company’s website. The closure marks the end of a long-standing presence in the Fairview...
ALTON — A coalition of local businesses in Alton is participating in the Have A Heart Food Collection Campaign to support the Salvation Army. The campaign, which features contributions from several organizations, aims to address food insecurity in the community, especially as many residents...
ALTON - An accomplished senior leaves an impactful legacy in many areas as he winds down his career at Alton High School. This month's Art Fahrner-Edward Jones Remarkable Redbird Gabe Futhey has not only left his mark at Alton High, but he has also left lasting impressions on members of the Alton...
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