WSIU Student Reporter Alex Kierstead died in a house fire in Carbondale on November 23rd, 2016. These are just a few of the stories he worked on during his time with us.
Alex's first feature assignment was to report on an annual festival celebrating fluorspar and its history in southern Illinois. His curiosity and research skills were evident in his work right away.
Alex quickly moved on to another story. This one would take him out on a mail carrier's route, as he explored how things have changed with new technology and trends.
In the spring of 2016, the U.S. Mint released a new quarter featuring southern Illinois' Garden of the Gods. Alex took a look at what makes the area so special.
When a proposed chicken farm south of Carbondale raised questions about its potential environmental impact, Alex dug deep - to examine the science of how the farms are operated.
As the Spring 2016 semester wound down, Alex highlighted International Tabletop Gaming Day - and local gamers.
Alex was artistic, and loved music. His interest led him to report on the 30th anniversary of Lost Cross, and on how the underground music scene impacts Carbondale.
In his final report for WSIU, Alex examined a new report on lung cancer rates in Illinois. He focused on rates in southern Illinois, which in many cases are higher than statewide and national averages.
Services for Alex Kierstead are scheduled for December 17th and 18th in his hometown of Aurora. You can get more information at Healy Funeral Home.
