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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski's (IL-13) Clear Communication for Veterans Claims Act passed unanimously in the U.S. House of Representatives. This vital legislation aims to simplify the language used by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in written communications, making it easier for veterans to access the benefits they’ve earned. To watch the Congresswoman’s remarks during floor debate on the bill, click HERE . By eliminating overcomplicated language, the bill will streamline the process and improve veterans' experiences. Budzinski introduced the bill alongside Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) and House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Chairman Mike Bost (IL-12). Barrett and Budzinski serve as Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization. "This is a real victory for veterans who have long been frustrated by overcomplicated language when trying to access the benefits they’ve

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GRANITE CITY – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that intermittent lane closures on Illinois 3 between the McKinley Bridge and Interstate 270 in Madison County will begin, weather permitting, Monday, April 14, 2025 for pavement patching. One lane will remain open in each direction. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone. The project is expected to be completed by June. For IDOT District 8 updates, follow us on the social media platform X at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com .

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EDWARDSVILLE - During the work session of the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education, Board members and Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton discussed the possibility of purchasing warehouse space for the district. Shelton said that he wanted to “build some understanding and context around our need for a warehouse” by discussing the district’s current solutions and how Hadley House is utilized. He explained that there was previously 5,000 square feet of storage and office space in Lincoln Middle School that was torn down to make way for the new gym that is currently being constructed at Lincoln. Following this, the district leased 17,000 square feet of space between BJC Healthcare and Kohl’s in Edwardsville from April 2023 to June 2024, at which point BJC Healthcare evicted the district because they needed the space. Since then, the district has stored maintenance items, chairs and desks, orders and other items in the schools. Shel

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned witnesses during a bicameral spotlight hearing entitled “Restoring Accountability: Exposing Trump’s Attacks on the Rule of Law.” Today’s spotlight hearing was led by U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Judiciary. Durbin began by asking Liz Oyer, the former head of the Justice Department’s Office of the Pardon Attorney who was fired for refusing to give actor and Trump “Special Ambassador” Mel Gibson special treatment to own a firearm despite a domestic violence conviction, about President Trump granting “full, complete and unconditional” pardons to every person convicted of offenses related to the deadly insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. “It

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SPRINGFIELD - With 30 days left until the REAL ID enforcement date takes effect on May 7, 2025 Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias wants Illinoisans to get the facts about REAL IDs as many scramble to get one. “The federal REAL ID rollout has caused a great deal of confusion across the country, including here in Illinois,” Giannoulias said. “We’re monitoring REAL ID demand and adjusting our services to efficiently accommodate the unprecedented surge.” Giannoulias noted if you’re not traveling after May 7, you probably don’t need a REAL ID right away. Given the recent surge at Illinois DMVs, Giannoulias advised Illinoisans who don’t need a REAL ID in May to consider holding off to avoid waits at facilities. He added that the May 7 “deadline” isn’t really a deadline. On May 7, Americans will need a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or ID, or a valid passport, to board a domestic flight; however, DMVs will

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, along with a bipartisan coalition of 13 attorneys general, today announced a $335 million national settlement in principle with pharmaceutical company Mylan Inc. (Mylan) over allegations the company deceptively promoted its opioid products as being less prone to abuse despite knowing for years that many of its opioid products – particularly its fentanyl patches – were actually more vulnerable to abuse. Illinois will receive more than $9 million in abatement funds from the settlement. “This bipartisan settlement represents the latest development in the work state attorneys general are doing to hold entities responsible for fueling the opioid epidemic that has wreaked havoc in communities across our country,” Raoul said. “I remain committed to ensuring funding is equitably distributed across Illinois to help fund services that mitigate opioid addiction.” Mylan, which is now a part of Viatris, has manufactured

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SWANSEA — Three young boys and three police officers were recognized for their heroic actions in saving a resident from a fire during a Swansea Village Board meeting. The Swansea Police Department and Swansea Fire Department honored the individuals for their quick thinking and bravery in an incident that occurred on March 28, 2025. The boys, identified as Roman, Xavier, and Darius, were playing outside when they noticed smoke coming from their neighbor's house. They promptly alerted an adult, who called 911, ensuring a swift response from emergency services. Swansea Police officers Schutzbach, Lindley, and Sgt. Kemper-Damm were the first responders on the scene. Upon arrival, they discovered that a resident was trapped inside the garage. The Swansea officers collaborated to breach the garage door and successfully rescued the individual. This incident underscores the vital role of community involvement in public safety, showcasing how the actions of both the children and

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GRANITE CITY – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today announced that a Granite City man was sentenced to 12 years in prison after pleading guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material. The case is part of Raoul’s ongoing work, in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies and local law enforcement officials throughout Illinois, to apprehend offenders who download and trade child sexual abuse material online. The Attorney General’s office prosecuted Sergio Alberto Zuniga-Chapol, 26, who was sentenced by Madison County Circuit Court Judge Amy Maher after pleading guilty to four Class 2 felony counts of possessing child pornography involving children under the age of 13. His sentence will be followed by three years to life of mandatory supervised release, and he will also register as a sex offender for life. “This sentence represents a degree of justice for the young victims who are exploited and abused by child sexual abuse material,” Raoul said.

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation is teaming up with the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies to promote Distracted Driving Awareness Month, reminding drivers to pay attention or pay the price. Distracted driving, which involves cellphone use or any activity that takes attention away from the task of operating your vehicle, is a risky behavior that endangers everyone on the road. “Arriving late is better than never arriving. Stay focused, stay safe and reach your destination without distractions,” said Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, IDOT’s bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering. “Remember: Don’t Drive Distracted. Eyes Forward.” According to IDOT statistics, 260 people died and 29,458 people were injured in crashes involving distractions between 2019 and 2023. In 2023, 58 people were killed in crashes involving at least one distracted driver, 4.7% of all traffic fatalities that year. All o

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SHILOH — New and soon-to-be parents in the Shiloh area are invited to attend the Baby in Bloom Pop-Up Shower for Growing Families, a free event hosted by Memorial Hospital Shiloh on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the main lobby of the hospital, located at 1404 Cross St., Shiloh, IL 62269. The Baby in Bloom event aims to provide essential resources for parents, covering topics such as planning a healthy pregnancy, infant safety, and the transition into parenthood. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with healthcare professionals and access a variety of informative offerings. Among the highlights of the event are discussions on childbirth, breastfeeding, and the various care options available at Memorial Hospital. Participants will also be able to tour the Family Care Birthing Center and learn about the hospital's Level II E Special Care Nursery. Additionally, information will be provided about the OB Emergency Department,

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WOOD RIVER - State Representative Amy Elik’s office will be hosting mobile office hours in Wood River on Monday, April 14, 2025 to meet with constituents who need help with issues concerning a State of Illinois agency. Rep. Elik’s staff will be available to meet with constituents from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Wood River City Hall, located at 111 N. Wood River Ave. in Wood River. “I know that there are people in my district who can’t always drive all the way to my District Office in Alton to receive help with a state agency,” said Rep. Amy Elik. “That’s why I’m bringing my office to you! Stop by if you’re having an issue with a state agency and my staff will be there to help.” Mobile office hours are open to the public. Appointments are encouraged but not required, however scheduled meetings will take place in the order in which they were received. To schedule a meeting, please call State Representative Amy Elik’s

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SPRINGFIELD — On Saturday, April 5, 2025, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) honored a group of creative fifth and sixth grade students selected for their artistic and writing skills used to express environmental awareness, as part of the Agency’s Annual Poster, Poetry, and Prose Contest. The students selected from throughout Illinois were recognized at a ceremony at the Illinois State Library in Springfield. Each year, fifth and sixth grade students in Illinois take part in the Poster, Poetry, and Prose contest as one of the Agency’s environmental education initiatives. As part of the contest, participating schools study environmental concepts with an emphasis on the current year’s environmental theme. Teachers round out the classroom instruction by having the students create posters or poetry/prose works to illustrate what they have learned and submit these to the Illinois EPA. Participating schools can select four works in each category to

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is reminding taxpayers that the Tuesday, April 15, 2025 deadline is quickly approaching for filing 2024 state individual income tax returns. The agency began accepting and processing individual income tax returns on Jan. 27, 2025 the same date the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) began accepting federal returns. "We encourage taxpayers to file electronically and choose direct deposit in order to ensure the fastest processing and issuance of any refunds," IDOR Director David Harris said. Illinois is participating in the free IRS Direct File program this year. Eligible Illinois taxpayers can use the program to file their 2024 federal returns directly with the IRS. Federal return information can then be transferred into MyTax Illinois, to file Illinois individual income taxes at no cost. Direct File eligibility can be confirmed by visiting https://directfile.irs.gov . “IRS Direct File offers free federal tax return filing

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EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is working with area early childhood agencies to take part in the annual Week of the Young Child (WOYC), which runs from Saturday-Friday, April 5-11, 2025, and is sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). SIUE is partnering with Birth to Five Illinois: Regions 50 and 41, Brightpoint, Madison County Alliance for Children & Families and the Metro East Illinois Association for the Education of Young Children. SIUE participants include the School of Education Health and Human Behavior (SEHHB) Department of Teaching and Learning, the Early Childhood Center (ECC) and the Head Start/Early Head Start Program (HS/EHS). “The Week of the Young Child is a national celebration of the power and importance of early childhood education,” said Rebecca Swartz , PhD, assistant professor in the SEHHB Department of Teaching and Learning. “High-quality early childhood education experiences

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April 8th has witnessed a myriad of significant events throughout history, shaping the world in various ways. As we look back in time, April 8, 1974, marked a pivotal moment in sports history when Hank Aaron hit his 715th home run, breaking Babe Ruth's long-standing record in Major League Baseball. Aaron's achievement transcended the sport, symbolizing the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in the United States during a time of racial tension. The event was celebrated by many, but it also faced backlash from those who were resistant to change. Aaron's legacy continues to inspire athletes and fans alike, as he is remembered not just for his incredible skill but for his perseverance in the face of adversity. In the realm of science, April 8, 1966, was a significant date when the famous Time magazine cover posed the provocative question, "Is God Dead?" This issue sparked a nationwide debate regarding religion's role in modern society and the burgeoning influence of science

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ALTON – In observance of the National Day of Prayer, Riverbend Christian Leadership Academy (RCLA) will host an evening of worship, prayer, and community unity on Thursday, May 1, 2025 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event will take place in the RCLA Gymnasium, located at 2009 Seminary St. in Alton. The gathering invites churches, pastors, worship teams, community leaders, and residents from across the Riverbend region to unite in prayer for the city, state, and nation. “We believe prayer changes communities,” said a spokesperson from RCLA. “In a divided world, we are choosing to come together in hope and truth, seeking God’s wisdom, protection, and direction.” A Gathering with Purpose Regional pastors and community leaders will guide attendees in prayer over key societal areas, including: Government – Local, state, and national leaders Churches and Pastors – For unity and boldness in leadership Families and Marriages – Seeking

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EDWARDSVILLE - During the work session of the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education, the Board voted to approve the replacement of the Edwardsville High School track and the installation of a new synthetic turf field at the Winston Brown Track and varsity softball field. The Board of Education approved a purchasing cooperative contract pricing bid from Byrne and Jones at $2,329,259. This money will be paid over the next three fiscal years from the District's Operations and Maintenance fund. The decision came after many high school softball players spoke in favor of the new facilities, as did head softball coach Caty Happe and track coach Chad Lakatos. Several community members also spoke during the public comments portion of the meeting and asked the Board of Education to slow their spending. During the meeting, Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton showed photographs of the existing track and softball field, illustrating the age of the track and the

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EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) Chancellor James T. Minor addressed the evolving landscape of higher education in statements released on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, emphasizing the need for academic program assessments to align with industry demands and student interests. Minor outlined the importance of program reviews in ensuring financial sustainability and maintaining a high-quality academic experience. In addressing the financial narrative surrounding academic changes, Minor clarified that SIUE is not facing a financial crisis. "At the beginning of the fiscal year, we adopted a budget that included a planned $10M structural deficit," he said. "This could have been easily resolved by quietly announcing a 2% budget cut and maintaining the status quo. Instead, we decided to manage more aggressively with the intent of introducing changes to our budgeting processes, executing a more dynamic enrollment management plan, and addressing efficiencies in ou

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JERSEYVILLE — Nick Hartley, a member of the Jersey Community High School wrestling team, has been recognized as a Sparklight Male Athlete of the Month following a successful junior season. Hartley concluded the season with an overall record of 29 wins and 12 losses, culminating in his qualification for the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) State Wrestling tournament, where he secured a victory. The achievement comes after several years of near misses for Hartley, who expressed his satisfaction with the progress he has made. "It feels amazing. I have been close the past few years," Hartley said. Frank Speidel, the head coach of the Jersey wrestling team, praised Hartley’s performances at state and on the season, noting the significance of his state match victory. "When Nick is on his A game, he can beat almost anyone. It was a great match, the one he won at state. Great job, Nick," Speidel said. Hartley’s accomplishment not only highlights his individual

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MASCOUTAH – MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) is pleased to announce that work is progressing on a 25,277-square-foot facility, currently under construction, that will enable the airport to process international commercial flights and attract additional aircraft and airlines. The facility, which will house U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), a General Aviation Facility, and a Federal Inspection Station, represents the fourth phase of terminal modifications made by MidAmerica St. Louis Airport to accommodate future passenger growth. The new facility is being built in two phases. Construction on Phase 4a began in late summer 2024 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. The $18.2 million project addresses the documented infrastructure needs of Customs and Border Protection and will include the General Aviation Facility and the exterior of the Federal Inspection Station. Work on Phase 4b, expected to cost approximately $10.9 million, will focus on the interior

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