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EDWARDSVILLE/ALTON - A decline in youth participation in organized sports disproportionately affects low-income and underserved communities, where financial barriers often limit access to structured athletic programs, according to a 2022 report from the Aspen Institute. Recognizing this challenge, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s STEM Center and Student Athletes Leading Tomorrow (SALT) have launched Cougar KickBots, an innovative program merging soccer, robotics, and life skills to provide students with valuable opportunities for growth. Founded in 2019, SALT is an Alton-area sports-based youth development organization dedicated to supporting underserved communities. Through Cougar KickBots, SIUE and SALT take a cross-disciplinary approach, integrating physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development into a hands-on program. Using LEGO robotics kits and Databot data loggers, students explore scientific concepts such as angles, momentum, and velocity, and

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul joined a coalition of 21 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief in support of Perkins Coie LLP (Perkins Coie), the Seattle law firm targeted by President Donald Trump for representing clients and taking positions disfavored by the president. Raoul and the states argue in the brief that the president’s March 6 executive order addressing risks from Perkins Coie is an attempt to prevent certain lawyers and viewpoints from reaching a court of law. The executive order claims Perkins Coie has engaged in dishonest and dangerous activity, particularly while representing Hillary Clinton in 2016. After the brief was filed, the court ordered a temporary restraining order to stop the implementation or enforcement of the sections of the executive order addressing risks from Perkins Coie. “In our country, clients have a right to legal representation regardless of their political party,” Raoul said. “Consistent with this

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Letter To The Editor: ALTON - The City of Alton has made significant strides in infrastructure improvements over the past few years and has ambitious plans for the future. The decisive actions of the Public Works Department, coupled with community engagement, have paved the way for a robust maintenance and improvement strategy that enhances the quality of life for all residents. Alton Mayor David Goins stated, “Through the efforts of our Public Works Department and particularly our Street Department we have strived to do our best to address infrastructure concerns especially the potholes that have recently been a trouble area throughout the city.” **Past Accomplishments (2021-Present) ** Since 2021, the City of Alton's Public Works Department has resurfaced approximately 37 streets, with additional work completed on the Homer Adams Parkway, College Ave./Route 140, and Martin Luther King Drive, all managed by the Illinois Department of Transportation. Notably, after

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EDWARDSVILLE - “A relentless advocate for women and underserved populations,” Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Nursing’s (SON) Jerrica Ampadu, PhD, demonstrates what it means to be a “Woman of Distinction,” according to her nominator, SIUE’s Tracy Cooley, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, SON assistant professor. Ampadu, interim associate dean for Graduate Programs, director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and associate professor, was named as a 2025 Woman of Distinction by YWCA Southwestern Illinois. Ampadu was one of 10 women recognized for her valuable and diverse contributions in the workforce and community. “This nomination is truly humbling. It is not very often that I take time to reflect on the cumulative impact of my work and advocacy,” said Ampadu. “Knowing that I have remained consistent in my purpose, values, and beliefs over the last 30 years is incredibly meaningful. Having others acknowledge my work makes

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CHICAGO- Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined hundreds of representatives from the Illinois Education Association (IEA) including leadership, educators, state legislators, and stakeholders at the IEA Representative Assembly. Governor Pritzker delivered remarks summarizing the State’s education investments through his proposed FY26 budget, as well as underscoring the importance of defending public education as the Trump Administration works to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. “Every student in every community from Cairo to Chicago, from Rockford to Champaign deserves a high-quality education taught by a well-paid teacher in a school with a library and a gym and a nurse and a social worker,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Education is either the foundation for nation’s future success, or if we fail, it can be our undoing. When we invest in our schools, we are building stronger communities, a more stable democracy, and a healthier economy.” "I

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Think basketball. It’s awards time for Riverbend high schools. The 78th annual Gallatin Prep Players of the Year awards banquet is scheduled for Sunday, March 23, at Julia's Banquet Center in East Alton. Festivities begin with a buffet at 6 p.m., followed by the awards ceremony. Male and female players from Alton High, Marquette Catholic, East Alton-Wood River, Roxana and Civic Memorial are eligible for the honors. There will be a boys and girls Player of the Year, 110 percent award winners, free throw award winners, plus team sportsmanship awards. All team MVPs and 110 percent nominees from the five competing schools will be recognized. Varsity players and coaches get in free. Tickets, priced at $25 apiece for all others, will be available at the door, which will open at 5:30 p.m. Please use cash or checks to purchase tickets. Venmo and PayPal will also be available, but no credit cards. Semaj Stampley and Jarius Powers of Alton were the MVP recipients in 2024. The banquet

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CHICAGO - Attorney General Kwame Raoul today issued the following statement after joining a coalition of 20 attorneys general in filing a lawsuit to stop the Trump administration’s dismantling of the Department of Education. “Illinois students have long relied on the Department of Education to oversee the timely processing of financial aid applications and the release of aid, so they can make informed decisions about pursuing postsecondary education,” said Raoul. “The Trump administration’s unlawful, unconstitutional action will severely hamstring the processing of essential financial aid. The elimination of large numbers of employees in the department’s Office of Civil Rights Harms Illinois students seeking redress from the federal government when violations of their rights affect their ability to obtain an education. Using mass layoffs to effectively dismantle a department that has its responsibilities set in federal law is yet another example

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GODFREY - Resurrection Lutheran Church in Godfrey is excited to announce their upcoming 2025 Community Health & Resource Fair, which will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025 from 1 to 4 p.m. at 1211 Homer Adams Parkway. This free event aims to help people connect with local and state resources. Up to 33 exhibitors will be on hand to share information about access to health and veterans’ resources, senior services, library services, legal and financial services, recreational opportunities, and so much more. Our goal is to help provide residents with a wide range of information about public health and wellness, including local organizations that offer recreation, conservation advocacy, gardening, native plant landscaping, and community service work. Attendees can expect plenty of giveaways from exhibitors and the chance to win door prizes. According to Sharon Groh, Community Health & Resource Fair Coordinator, “we will be accepting non-perishable food items from attendees t

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Letter To The Editor To Voters of the Village of Godfrey: As your first official Godfrey Village Clerk Pam Whisler, I endorse Susan Robbins for the elected position of Village Clerk in the upcoming Village Election on April 1, 2025. Susan has an impressive knowledge of the issues in the Village of Godfrey. Residents are fortunate to have a hard-working and dedicated person representing them in the office of Village Clerk. After serving more than 24 years as the Supervisor’s Assistant, Deputy Clerk and recently appointed Village Clerk, she clearly has the education and knowledge to excel in the position. Susan has continued several events in the Village Clerk Office which were established by the first Clerk Office: Mobile Driver’s License; Shred-It Day. The Village Clerk is the keeper of public records, local election authority, and the liaison between residents and the Village Board. Her desire to see the office function at its highest level is vital. Susan is the only

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ALTON - St. Mary’s Catholic School in Alton has released their High Honor and Honor Roll lists for the third quarter of the 2024-2025 academic school year. HIGH HONOR ROLL 8th Grade Avery Conrad Elaina Cowan James Fischer Katherin Fitzgerald Tucker Hamilton Eli Heischmidt Joseph Henesey Parker Hough Caleb Kasten Colette Manns Kaelyn Page Clyde Phillips Lucia Pulido Jenna Redman Caden Roth William Roth Caden Shewmake Olivia Smith Claire Stephens William Waters Zoey Zeller 7th Grade Lauren Elliott Ava Holt Jay Klunk Alena Manns Eva Martin Charlie Marshall Joey Root Connor von Sothen Genevieve Stendeback Leena Walker Sophia Waters Abigail Widman 6th Grade Wyatt Bennett Reese Curry Daniel Fitzgerald Jaxson Foesterling Jude Frost Adam Jacobs Henley Janek Louie Koeller James Klockenkemper Katie O’Neill William Roberts Nolan Strack

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Letter To The Editor: When a person looks to hire an individual for an important job, the credentials and experience of a potential candidate should always be an obvious part of the decision. With their vote on April 1st, Godfrey residents will have the opportunity to hire (rehire, actually) Susan Robbins as Village Clerk and, believe me, her credentials and experience are paramount. Susan has been an integral part of Godfrey government since 2001 when she began in the Supervisor’s Office. In 2019, after the Township was dissolved, Susan moved down the hall and took over as Deputy Clerk for the Village of Godfrey. In 2023, after the untimely death of then Clerk Bethany Bohn, Susan was unanimously appointed to the position of Village Clerk by the Mayor and Board of Trustees. Susan consistently displays an aura of professionalism, friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to assist the people of Godfrey. I have heard about, and personally witnessed, Susan’s positive interaction

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A March 10, 1925, article in the Alton Evening Telegraph titled “Dying Woman Gives Reward to Her Kind Friends” described the contents of the will of Minnie Wells Luly Walters. When she died, Walters willed her property “almost altogether to those who had been kind to her.” After bills were paid and accounts settled, her estate was worth about $3,500 ($64,500 in 2025). The will bequeathed $1,000 to H. William Bauer, $500 to Frank P. Bauer, $300 to William Fleming, and $100 each to Mrs. George Dietz, Miss Eda Faulstich and Mrs. Schindewolf. Walters also left $100 for the Alton Cemetery fund and a sum to provide a marker for her grave. Misses Lillian and Lorena Bauer (daughters of H. William Bauer) were the executrixes. “The reason remembered H.W. Bauer above all others was that at one time, to test out the sincerity of devotion of a man who wanted to marry her, she had deeded to Mr. Bauer all of her property and he had held it in his own name for years.

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Letter to the Editor: I’m writing this letter to clarify some things. I am your City Clerk and have been for four years now. Did I become ill? Yes. Did my Deputy Clerk, who was appointed by me, have to step in and fulfill my duties while I was out? Yes. That is what is expected of any Deputy. My health was critical; I almost died twice. But did I ever forget about my job? No. When I got home from the hospital, all I did was work hard to get healthy so I could return to the office of the City Clerk. I was finally released to come back to work in January of 2024. I was so ready to get back to work. That first day of my return, I stayed the whole day and have not missed a day due to my health nor have I missed any Committee of the Whole or Council meetings. I do not view my prior illness as a weakness. I view my recovery as proof of my strength and resilience to get through, as this was the worst time of my life, but I’ve been back working at 100% since January 2024.

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and local law enforcement remind you to plan ahead for a sober ride home before partaking in any St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. When you know how you’ll get home after the revelry ends, you – and those around you – are more likely to end the night safely with your luck intact. “Don’t push your luck this St. Patrick’s Day by driving impaired,” said Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, IDOT’s bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering. “Plan ahead for a safe celebration and don’t let anyone get behind the wheel if they’ve been drinking or using drugs. Take their keys away and make sure they have a safe ride home. It might be the difference between a memorable celebration or a tragedy that could have easily been avoided by making the right choice.”

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GRAFTON - Get ready to tee it up at the annual Grafton Chamber of Commerce Mississippi Masters Golf Tournament scheduled for Friday, May 2, 2025 at Lockhaven Golf Club. Golfers interested in taking part in the event can register at www.graftonilchamber.com . The outing will feature a four-person scramble with a 1 p.m. shotgun start. Team entry fees are $360. Tournament sponsorships are also available. The Mississippi Masters is the largest fundraiser for the Grafton Chamber of Commerce. Funds raised support chamber activities including maintenance of the American Flag on the Grafton riverfront; purchase and maintenance of holiday decorations; holiday events including SantaCon Lighted Holiday Parade and Santa’s Chocolate Express; the annual spring Sip, Sample and Stroll event and additional city activities. Lockhaven Golf Club, 10872 Lawrence Keller Dr., Godfrey, is a professionally designed 18-hole, 72 par public course located on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River

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CHICAGO – Today, the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) Director Jim Bennett and the Illinois Office to Prevent and End Homelessness (OPEH) issued a letter to remind public officials and local units of government of their obligations under the Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA), the Illinois Civil Rights Act of 2003, and the Bill of Rights for the Homeless Act (BRHA). The letter was issued following the recent U.S. Supreme Court opinion addressing laws that regulate camping and other sleeping activities on public property. It reinforces that Illinois law requires the administration of access to public spaces in a non-discriminatory manner, including to persons who may be seeking shelter. While most localities have not changed their approach of providing care and compassion to people experiencing homelessness, several units of local government have enacted or are considering enacting ordinances that may restrict access to public spaces by creating penalties, fines and,

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PIASA - Southwestern High School recently received official notice that multiple students had been selected as the 2025-26 Illinois State Scholars for their outstanding academic achievement. The students are as follows: Ike Austin Lainie Behrends Reagan Beilsmith Ian Brantley Gracie Darr Ava Pulley Piper Voorhees If you have Illinois State Scholars from your school you wish to have published, e-mail news@riverbender.com with the names and a photo.

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GRANITE CITY – Granite City Elks Lodge #1063 recognized Granite City High School seniors Mackenzie Przybysz and Cleison Miranda-Gomez as Students of the Month for February. The Elks Student of the Month Program is designed to recognize outstanding young men and women for achievements in school and community life-fine arts, hobbies, athletics, church, school, club and community service, industry and farming. Nominees are judged on multiple achievements including leadership skills, good moral character, community involvement, extracurricular activities, honors and award and scholastic ability. Each student receives a $100 U.S. savings bond and an Elks certificate of achievement. MACKENZIE PRZYBYSZ President of Book Club ... National Honor Society ... Member of Book, Photography and Science Club ... Daughter of Adam and Kristen Przybysz. CLEISON MIRANDA-GOMEZ Two-time Cross Country and Track & Field team captain ... Four-year High Honor Roll ... National Honor

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Susan Collins (R-ME), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)—co-chairs of the Girl Scouts’ Honorary Troop Capitol Hill—introduced a bipartisan resolution to recognize the 113th birthday of the Girl Scouts of America and celebrate its historic legacy of empowering girls and building powerful female leaders across the country. “I still use the leadership skills that I developed in the Girl Scouts as a young woman every day,” said Duckworth. “For 113 years, Girl Scouts have instilled the values of service and how to always ‘be prepared’ in generations of girls, empowering them to lead wherever they go—in business, science, public service and beyond. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution to commemorate and honor this historic organization.” “I am proud to have grown up as a Girl Scout in Caribou and to now be a member of Troop

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC)—joined her fellow SASC Democratic colleagues Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) in demanding answers from U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth regarding his threats to cut efforts to adapt to climate change at the Department of Defense (DoD), which would put thousands of American lives and billions of American taxpayer dollars at risk. In their letter, the lawmakers underscored how DoD officials, generals and admirals have warned that the consequences of climate change may harm the organization, training, equipping and planning of military services. Climate change threatens instability in some of the world's most volatile regions and presents significant national security challenges for the United States. The lawmakers wrote: “Surely, as a Secretary of Defense that claims to be ‘laser

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