Riverbender 🕸

EAST ST. LOUIS — East St. Louis Senior High School hosted its annual Poetry Slam recently, featuring the theme “Words That Breathe and Transform.” The event, sponsored by English Language Arts teacher Melanie Davis, showcased the talents of students as they expressed themselves through spoken word poetry. Participants delivered a range of performances that highlighted their creativity and passion. The event aimed to provide a platform for students to share their thoughts and experiences, encouraging self-expression and artistic exploration. “Congratulations to all the participants and winners,” Davis said. “Your voices, creativity, and passion truly shined.” The Poetry Slam is part of a broader initiative at East St. Louis Senior High School to promote literacy and the arts among students. The event drew an enthusiastic audience, with attendees supporting their peers and celebrating the art of poetry. Highlights from the event included

Continue Reading

O'FALLON, Ill. — A community is coming together to support David Lang, who is facing the challenges of raising two daughters alone following the sudden death of his wife, Maria Lang, on March 27, 2025. Maria died shortly after giving birth to their newborn daughter, Adelynn, leaving behind her husband and their 8-year-old daughter. In the wake of this tragedy, a fundraiser has been organized by Shelby Brennan on behalf of the Lang family. The initiative aims to help David cover funeral expenses, medical bills, and ongoing needs for his family. According to the fundraiser's description, Maria was "so excited to be a mom again." Following her death, Adelynn spent time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) but has since returned home. The fundraiser has been launched by members of the Holy Childhood School community, where David's older daughter is enrolled. Organizers hope that the effort will provide financial relief and support during this difficult time. The fundraiser

Continue Reading

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led all Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats in a letter to Chairman Grassley pushing for a hearing on Ed Martin’s nomination to be U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. While the Committee doesn’t typically hold hearings for U.S. Attorney nominees, Mr. Martin’s record and deeply problematic conduct merit heightened scrutiny and more than justify the full committee questioning him under oath. The Senators described Mr. Martin’s record of attacks on law enforcement and association with violent criminals , writing: “Prior to his appointment as interim U.S. Attorney, Mr. Martin made stunning attacks on federal prosecutors and associated himself with individuals who present a threat to our nation. Mr. Martin was a leader of the so-called ‘Stop the Steal’ movement to illegally overturn the 2020 election. H

Continue Reading

ALTON - Senior Services Plus, Inc. (SSP), located at 2306 N. Rodgers Ave. in Alton, will host a "Meet the Legislators" panel discussion on April 25, 2025, from 12 to 1 p.m. Proudly sponsored by AARP Illinois, the event will feature District Director Brian Zilm from U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski's office, Senator Erica Harriss, and State Representative Katie Stuart. These legislators will discuss key topics and issues impacting the older adult community, followed by a Q&A session where attendees can engage directly with the speakers. “We are grateful to have local legislators visit our agency to share updates and answer questions for our older adults. It’s important that we offer opportunities for our older adults to stay engaged and informed. This event wouldn’t be possible without our AARP Illinois’ collaboration and support.” said SSP Development Director, Emily Jackson. This event will take place in the School House Grill inside Senior Services

Continue Reading

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) and U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC)—along with SVAC Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) called out the White House for declaring SignalGate—the most devastating and significant national security breach in years—“ case-closed ” without holding any senior Administration officials responsible for leaking classified information through an unclassified communications channel, putting the lives of our servicemembers at greater risk. In her remarks, Duckworth called on Republicans to join her in demanding congressional hearings and an independent investigation to look into the Trump officials on the Signal chat—urging her colleagues on the other side of the aisle

Continue Reading

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with Dr. Paul Kearns, Director of Argonne National Laboratory to discuss the future of scientific research as the Trump Administration takes aim at federal research institutions. During their meeting, Durbin and Dr. Kearns spoke about the disastrous impact of the Trump Administration’s funding cuts and freezes to scientific research. Durbin and Dr. Kearns also discussed Illinois’ position as a leader in quantum computing research. In February, Durbin introduced his bipartisan DOE Quantum Leadership Act , which would authorize more than $2.5 billion over the next five years for quantum research at the Department of Energy. “Illinois is home to premier research institutions, including Argonne National Lab. But the Trump Administration fails to understand just how critical our scientists and researchers are in pushing our country forward,” said Durbin. “It was a pleasure to

Continue Reading

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC)—secured a commitment from President Trump’s nominee to serve as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Lieutenant General Dan Caine, to ensure legally-required oversight and accountability of military decisions in light of SignalGate demonstrating Trump Administration officials’ deeply troubling pattern of using unclassified and unaccountable backchannels that jeopardize the safety of our servicemembers. A day after the White House declared SignalGate “ case closed ” and that no one on the Signal chain would lose their jobs for breaching our national security, Duckworth outlined how this Administration has been corruptly mishandling our nation’s secrets. Duckworth’s full remarks can be found on YouTube . “The Trump Administration has shown they are more interested in keeping secrets

Continue Reading

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) participated in a House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs hearing where medical technology executives pitched their products to be bought by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In her remarks, Budzinski questioned why the committee was discussing cutting-edge biomedical equipment, while the VA is in crisis in the wake of the Trump administration’s ongoing hiring freeze and mass firings of VA employees. In fact, no representative from the VA was present at the hearing. Congresswoman Budzinski joined House Veterans Affairs Committee Ranking Member Mark Takano in sending a letter to VA Secretary Doug Collins expressing grave concern with President Trump’s recent executive orders on the VA research workforce. The lawmakers demanded answers about what firing these employees means for the future of VA research – including ongoing clinical trials. Budzinski’s remarks as prepared for

Continue Reading

EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville concluded its annual Wom*n’s History Month (WHM) on Monday, March 31, 2025. This year’s theme was Moving Forward Together! Wom*n Educating and Inspiring Generations. Speakers, presentations, activities, observances and more were woven throughout March to acknowledge and celebrate women and their contributions. WHM was also a time to inform, inspire and challenge hearts and minds. Specifically, some of the month’s highlights included the Opening of Wom*n’s History Month with Venessa A Brown, PhD, emerita professor in the Department of Social Work, and sponsored by the Kimmel Belonging and Engagement Hub (K-Hub); “Women’s History Unveiled: Honoring Women Who Changed The World,” sponsored by the SIUE Office of Equal Opportunity, Access, and Title IX (EOA); The Clothesline Project (Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Awareness), hosted by the EOA; Midwest Society for Women in Philosophy

Continue Reading

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Legendary rock band The Black Crowes are bringing electrified guitar strings, and stripped, bare-boned rock & roll to the Illinois Lottery Grandstand Stage on Saturday, August 9 . The Black Crowes have been a staple of American rock & roll since their 1990 debut, blending blues-infused riffs with unapologetic energy. With over 30 million albums sold worldwide, the band has cemented its place in rock history. Their latest album, Happiness Bastards, marks their triumphant return to original music and has been hailed as a testament to the enduring power of rock & roll. “The Black Crowes represent the kind of powerhouse talent that makes the Illinois State Fair’s Grandstand lineup stand out year after year,” said Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II . Since reuniting in 2019, The Black Crowes have played over 150 shows across 20 countries, proving that their signature mix of gritty blues-rock and unfiltered energy

Continue Reading

WOOD RIVER – Midwest Members Credit Union is proud to sponsor the “Oiler of the Month” program at East Alton Wood River (EAWR) High School. A Senior student is selected each month by members of EAWR faculty. Each student is awarded a certificate and a Subway gift card. The Seniors selected each month will have the opportunity to compete for a $1,000 “Oiler of the Year” scholarship at the end of the school year. March's winner is Logan Wilcutt. Logan is a Senior at EAWR and is involved in Track & Field, Cross Country and Trap. Logan has received honors with the Silver Medallion, Gold Renaissance and High Honorable. In Logan's free time, he enjoys working the concessions stand and donating at local blood drives. After graduation, Logan is planning on enlisting in the military. Congratulations Logan and we all wish you good luck in your future! Midwest Members Credit Union has been serving your community for over 90 years. To find out more information

Continue Reading

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today led Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee in two letters to U.S. Attorney General (AG) Pam Bondi seeking clarification about the Trump Administration’s extreme and partisan approach to the pardon power. The first letter asks what role, if any, the Department of Justice (DOJ) played in the pardons and commutations issued by President Donald Trump to individuals convicted of crimes in connection with the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, as well as greater clarity regarding DOJ’s position on the scope of criminal acts covered by these pardons and commutations. Along with Durbin, this letter was signed by U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Adam Schiff (D-CA). “As you know, on January 20, 2025, President Trump granted clemency t

Continue Reading

CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a coalition of 24 attorneys general and governors, today filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., for abruptly and illegally terminating nearly $12 billion in critical public health grants to states. The grant terminations, which came with no warning or legally valid explanation, have quickly caused chaos for state health agencies that continue to rely on these critical funds for a wide range of urgent public health needs such as infectious disease management, fortifying emergency preparedness, providing mental health and substance abuse services, and modernizing public health infrastructure. “Illinois and states across the nation rely on federal grants to provide state public health services that protect our children and residents from serious diseases or health crises,” Raoul said. “The abrupt termination of this funding that impacts

Continue Reading

CHICAGO – Join the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), Prevent Child Abuse Illinois, Hospital Sisters Health System, the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children, elected officials, child welfare stakeholders and more for a month-long observance to share child abuse and neglect prevention awareness messages and promote prevention efforts during Child Abuse Prevention Month in April. This year’s theme, Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention , is a call to action to commit to a future where every child grows up safe, loved and full of hope. “This year’s theme goes hand-in-hand with our department’s vision: for every child and youth to grow and thrive in a family,” said Illinois DCFS Director Heidi E. Mueller. “We know that when parents are supported, their families are stronger and safer – and we also know that children do better when they are able to remain at home safely. In 2024 we served 4,034 families

Continue Reading

CHICAGO - The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved its annual five-year Crossing Safety Improvement Program (FY 2026-2030) to implement life-saving safety upgrades at highway-rail crossings across Illinois. Over $400 million from the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) and Rebuild Illinois (RBI) will help local communities pay for much-needed improvements at over 900 crossing locations . “Illinois’ rail system is made up of more than 10,000 public crossings. The ICC’s Crossing Safety Improvement Plan is an essential tool for improving our state’s rail infrastructure and reducing the risk of collisions,” said ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan . In 2024, preliminary Federal Railroad Administration data indicates there were 80 collisions at public crossings in Illinois, down from 89 in 2023. State funding from the GCPF and RBI provide Illinois communities the ability to address longstanding safety concerns and increasing project costs.

Continue Reading

ST. LOUIS - A tornado watch is in effect until 4 p.m. for the Metro East area, National Weather Service in St. Louis meteorologist Chris Kimble said on Wednesday morning, April 2, 2025. He said the tornado watch means the region is under the threat of severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, and the watch covers the entire Metro East region. "The conditions Wednesday afternoon are conducive to the development of severe weather," Kimble added. The National Weather Service advises residents to remain vigilant and be prepared to receive warnings. Kimble advised in the event of severe weather, individuals are encouraged to seek shelter in a basement or a sturdy room, away from external walls or windows, until the threat has passed. The most significant threat is expected between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. In addition to the tornado watch, forecasts indicate that heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely to persist from Thursday through the weekend, raising concerns about potential flas

Continue Reading

ALTON - The thrill of powerboat racing on the mighty Mississippi River powers up the Alton Riverfront July 18-20 with the return of Alton Midwest Nationals Powerboat Championships. Tickets are on sale now for this high-speed river racing event. General admission and VIP tickets are available. Parking is free. Purchase tickets here: https://www.tixr.com/groups/f1powerboat/events/f1-powerboat-alton-midwest-nationals-138471 The Alton Midwest Nationals features F1 Powerboats competing in a series of heat laps on a course created on the Mississippi River. This is the second year in a row the event has been held in Alton. The race will return to Alton again in 2026 and 2027 thanks to a partnership between the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau, the City of Alton and the F1 Powerboat Championships. “We can’t wait to host this event again in Alton,” Cory Jobe, President/CEO of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau noted. “Last year we welcomed ove

Continue Reading

Did you know that holding onto grudges can be as harmful to your health as smoking? According to research published in the "Journal of Behavioral Medicine," chronic resentment can lead to increased stress levels, which in turn can contribute to heart disease and other health issues. This startling statistic highlights the powerful impact that forgiveness—or the lack thereof—can have not just on our emotional well-being, but also on our physical health. Forgiveness is not just a noble act; it is a crucial skill that can mend damaged relationships and restore inner peace. Understanding Forgiveness Forgiveness is often misunderstood. Many people equate it with excusing bad behavior or dismissing the pain caused by others. However, true forgiveness involves acknowledging the hurt and choosing to release the negative emotions associated with it. It is a conscious decision to let go of the desire for retribution, which can lead to deeper connections and a healthier emotional

Continue Reading

April 2nd has been a significant date throughout history, marked by a variety of impactful events across the globe. Today, we take a journey through time to highlight some of the most notable occurrences on this day, from groundbreaking treaties to cultural milestones. One of the most momentous events in modern history took place on April 2, 1945, when the United States launched Operation Iceberg, the invasion of Okinawa during World War II. This operation marked the largest amphibious assault in the Pacific Theater, involving over 180,000 American troops. The battle lasted until June 22, 1945, and was one of the bloodiest of the entire war, with significant casualties on both sides. The strategic importance of Okinawa was immense, serving as a staging area for a potential invasion of the Japanese mainland. The fierce fighting during this campaign ultimately contributed to Japan's surrender later that year and highlighted the brutal nature of the conflict. Fast forward to April 2,

Continue Reading

HARDIN – With no contests at the local level this election cycle, Calhoun County voters saw candidates compete in a few school board races for the April 1, 2025 elections. Pikeland Community Unit School District 10 Uncontested for Township 5S Range 4W, Kendra Jo Conkright secured her bid for School Board , as did Megan Vose for Township 5S Range 2W. R esults for Township 5S Range 3W, also known as Newburg Township, have not yet been posted. Stay tuned to Riverbender.com for updates to this story as results are released. John Wood Community College District 539 Four candidates ran for two open trustee positions for John Wood Community College District 539. R. Kent Snider and Andrew Sprague were elected to the college board, earning 42.11% and 36.84 % of the vote respectively. Losing their bids were Elizabeth Weas Cash with 15.79 % and Christopher Adam Holtschlag with 5.26 % of the

Continue Reading