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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today led U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Gary Peters (D-MI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Tina Smith (D-MN) in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanding answers about the closure of five regional Head Start offices across the country, including the Region 5 office in Chicago. The Region 5 office serves Head Start grantees in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. In their letter, the lawmakers made clear that Secretary Kennedy’s decision will harm children’s access to early education and cut jobs for hardworking Midwesterners dedicated to early childhood development. “We are writing to express concern with your April 1, 2025, announcement that the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Head Start (OHS) plans to close five regional offices across th

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SPRINGFIELD – Illinois youth turkey hunters harvested a preliminary record total of 2,091 birds during the 2025 youth turkey season, breaking the previous harvest record of 2,010 set in 2024. The dates for this year's season were March 29-30 and April 5-6. A total of 6,573 youth turkey permits were issued this year, compared to 6,541 in 2024. The top five counties for harvest during this year's youth season were Jefferson, 69; Pike, 69; Randolph, 67; Fayette, 62; and Macoupin, 60. The following table shows preliminary harvest figures for the youth turkey season by county for 2024 and 2025: County 2024 2025 AD 49 50 ALEXANDER 24 13 BOND 18 20 BOONE 4 4 BROWN 35 39 BUREAU 14 19 CALHOUN 24 38 CARROLL 8 9 CASS 19 24 CHAMPAIGN 3 6 CHRISTIAN 6 7 CLARK 32 28 CLAY 49 49 CLINTON 30 31 COLES 7 7 CRAWFORD

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WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today joined U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in sending a bipartisan letter to urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to restore integrity, stability, and growth to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and the U.S. biofuel sector by raising Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) levels for biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels. In a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, the Senators pressed EPA to implement multi-year RVO standards to provide certainty and growth for the biofuels industry. “The biofuels market continues to expand to new frontiers including marine shipping, aviation and rail. These markets are driven in part by demand for low carbon fuels that biofuels can uniquely provide … biofuels provide a buffer to market fluctuations in the liquid fue

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of both the U.S. Senate Armed Services (SASC) and Foreign Relations (SFRC) Committees—and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Mark Warner (D-VA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Chris Coons (D-DE) and other Senate Democratic colleagues in sending a letter to President Trump expressing concern over the firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander of U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM) General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA Wendy Noble. “These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe,” the Senators wrote. “As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure. In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today joined U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen and 22 Senators in writing to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Tedd Lyons. The Senators’ letter urged Secretary Noem and Acting Director Lyons to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a father who was living legally, under a protected status, in Maryland with his family until he was wrongfully deported without due process by the Trump Administration last month to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador. The Administration has admitted that Abrego Garcia’s deportation was the result of an “administrative error.” In their letter, the Senators call on the Trump Administration to facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return and ask for responses to questions regarding ICE’s enforcement policies

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today spoke on the Senate floor slamming the Trump Administration for its attempts to dismantle the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the harmful impacts it will have on medical research across the country, including in red states. Durbin began his remarks by highlighting the importance of NIH funding to patients nationwide. Durbin said, “There is certainty in funding medical research. Certainty in knowing that while not all trials, experiments, and grants will result in a breakthrough—some of them will. Because of medical research, kids with ear infections or pneumonia can find relief in antibiotics; because of medical research, we have vaccines that have saved tens of millions of lives worldwide; because of medical research, we have anesthesia that allows patients to safely undergo major surgeries; because of medical research, people are surviving heart attacks, beating cancer, living with HIV/AIDS

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ranking Member Diana DeGette (CO-01), and five more members of the Energy & Commerce Health Subcommittee marched to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today to demand a meeting with Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. After waiting in the lobby for almost half an hour, Secretary Kennedy nor his office responded to schedule a meeting to explain recent layoffs and restructuring of HHS. “RFK Jr. is a coward. He followed orders from Elon Musk to fire 10,000 HHS employees, eliminated half of the HHS regional offices – including the one in Chicago that serves the Midwest – and now refuses to answer questions,” said Rep. Kelly . “Americans’ health should not be in the hands of RFK Jr., who refutes basic scientific truths. These DOGE-led layoffs are cruel, politically motivated, and will irreversibly damage public health.” On March 27, Secretary Kennedy announced the termination of

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GODFREY – The New Horizons Band of Godfrey presents Sounds of Spring on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 7 p.m. at the McNicholas Club (Godfrey KC Hall). Be prepared to mambo, tango, polka and waltz at the upcoming spring concert under the direction of Stanley Chytil on Saturday, April 26 at 7 p.m. at the McNicholas Club. The band will play some new and familiar hits and encourages everyone to tap their feet on the dance floor. Doors open one hour before the concert starts. Admission is $15 per person, children 12 and under are FREE. The McNicholas Club is located at 1713 Stamper Lane in Godfrey. A limited menu with many desserts and a cash bar will be available. The band currently consists of 40 adult musicians. This full-sized band presents the finest in Big-Band sounds. The New Horizons Band of Godfrey is a member of New Horizons International Music Association (NHIMA) and is one of many such bands across the United States that offer older citizens a chance to get back playing

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SPRINGFIELD - State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) co-sponsored House Bill 1607 that creates the Commission on Eliminating Food Deserts Act. The bill helps state-led efforts to eliminate food deserts in Illinois, specifically in underserved communities and rural areas across the state. State Representative Kevin Schmidt said he’s proud to co-sponsor legislation that will expand access to healthy food and daily essentials for families in Illinois, including the East St. Louis community. “I support HB1607 because families should never have to struggle to find groceries and other daily essentials due to inadequate access to grocery stores,” said Rep. Schmidt. “This bill will help fill the gap in food insecurities we continue to see around the state, and it will also help create healthier lifestyles for families by having access to fresh fruit, vegetables, and other healthful whole foods.” Many factors contribute to causing a food desert,

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SPRINGFIELD — Today Governor JB Pritzker joined British officials at the Illinois State Capitol to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Illinois and the United Kingdom, building on a decades-long trade relationship between the two entities. The MOU, which focuses on advancing manufacturing in the energy, technology and life sciences sectors, was first agreed to during the Governor’s visit to the United Kingdom in 2023. “Now more than ever, it’s essential that states like in Illinois build and maintain healthy relationships with major trade partners—and for years, the United Kingdom has met Illinois with equal enthusiasm and desire for increased cooperation and partnership,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Signing this MOU is the next step in growing our strong trade relationship that will benefit both Illinois and the UK, and I look forward to seeing how this agreement will spur additional opportunities across sectors.” ‘The

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RIVERBEND - Hop into Easter fun with an Easter egg hunt! We’ve compiled the ultimate list of Easter egg hunts in the Riverbend, perfect for you and your little bunnies to enjoy. SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 2025 FSS Eggstravaganza Easter Egg Hunt Date : Saturday, April 12, 2025 Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Location: Scott Event Center, Paegelow Street at Scott AFB Cost: Free More info: https://www.riverbender.com/events/details.cfm?seriesid=49360 Wood River Parks and Recreation Easter Egg Hunt Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025 Time: 10–11:30 a.m. Location: Central Park, 633 N. Wood River Avenue in Wood River Cost: Free More info: http://riverbender.com/events/details.cfm?seriesid=49304 Egg-strava-ganza Egg Hunt Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025 Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Location: Bethalto Church of God, 800 East Bethalto Boulevard in Bethalto Cost: Free More info: https://www.riverbender.com/events/details.cfm?seriesid=48971

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ALTON/JERSEY COUNTY - A man and a woman were apprehended following a vehicle crash that occurred after a police chase that began in Alton and extended into Jersey County on Tuesday night, April 8, 2025. The pursuit initiated in Alton and continued north into Jersey County. According to Jersey County Sheriff Nick Manns, the suspect lost control of the vehicle near a sharp curve on Centennial Road, north of Highway 16, and crashed into a field. After the crash, the male driver exited the vehicle and fled on foot but was apprehended shortly thereafter. The female passenger remained in the car and was also taken into custody at the scene. During the investigation, law enforcement discovered drugs in the vehicle, Manns said. Sheriff Manns confirmed that both individuals were arrested and said that further details regarding the incident would be forthcoming.

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COLLINSVILLE – For the 24th consecutive year, Collinsville High School's student council has been named a National Gold Council of Excellence by the National Association of Student Councils. The National Council of Excellence is an award program created by NASC to recognize student councils that maintain strong year-round programs and work to improve their schools and communities through their leadership activities. The award is founded on the four tenets of NASC (Leadership, Service, Engagement and Student Voice) and provides broad recognition for worthy efforts of NASC member councils. A student council must meet a variety of criteria to earn a National Council of Excellence Award. In addition to basic requirements such as a written constitution, regular meetings and a democratic election process, the councils must have demonstrated successful sponsorship and participation in activities such as leadership development and service to the school and community. Student councils

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EAST ST. LOUIS – Local crime survivors, families of crime victims, and city leaders will gather on Saturday for a healing vigil aimed at raising awareness about victim compensation and other resources for recovery. The event, taking place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 5108 State St. in East St. Louis and is part of the nationwide observance of National Crime Victims Rights Week, organized by Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice. Attendees will hold photographs of their lost loved ones while mourning and sharing their stories. The vigil will also serve as a platform for participants to learn about the state's victim compensation program, which provides financial assistance for expenses such as counseling and funeral costs. A national poll revealed that only 4% of violent crime survivors are aware of such compensation options. “Every state has a program, but 96% of victims of violent crime did not receive victim compensation to help in their recovery,&rdquo

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ALTON – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced intermittent lane closures will be encountered on the US 67 Clark Bridge over the Mississippi River beginning Thursday, April 10, 2025, weather permitting. These intermittent lane closures are necessary to allow for the completion of cable inspections scheduled for this structure. All work is estimated to be completed by Friday, June 13. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment. 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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ST. LOUIS - St. Louis Board of Aldermen President Megan E. Green congratulated Mayor-Elect Cara Spencer and Comptroller-Elect Donna Baringer following their election victories on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Green, who expressed her commitment to collaboration despite differing perspectives, emphasized the importance of their success for the city and its residents. Spencer won the mayoral race with 64.17 percent of the vote to incumbent Mayor Tishaura Jones' 35.83 percent of the vote. Spencer had 32,090 votes and Jones had 17,915 votes. Cara is an alderwoman of Ward 8 in St. Louis. Outgoing Mayor Tishaura Jones topped Spencer in the 2021 election. Spencer will be sworn in for duty on April 15, 2025. In her statement, Green acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Comptroller Green, who has served for 30 years, and Mayor Jones, praising their leadership and dedication to the people of St. Louis. "Serving alongside you has been an honor," Green said. Addressing concerns about representation,

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ALTON/GODFREY/HARTFORD - Community members have the chance to experience a weekend of historical, nature-based fun. Brian “Fox” Ellis, a historian and storyteller, will present three different programs with the Hayner Public Library District, The Nature Institute, and the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site. Ellis is coming to the Riverbend through the Illinois Humanities Road Scholars Speakers Bureau, which sponsors Illinois-focused cultural programs. “The goal is that anyone going to any Road Scholars program feels a connection to the culture, history and natural resources of Illinois in some way,” explained Ben with the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site. “This is American history, which is big, but it’s also our local Illinois history. You can feel that extra connection.” At 6:30 p.m. on Friday, April 11, 2025, Hayner’s Genealogy and Local History Library will host “Adventures with Audubon,” a free hourlong

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GODFREY - Theodora Farms and Challenge Unlimited have partnered to provide the dignity of good food and good work. Theodora Farms, located in Godfrey, will launch their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program this June. Members of the program will receive a box of fresh produce weekly or biweekly. Individuals who take part in Challenge Unlimited’s programs for folks with disabilities will package a second box of fresh produce, called a Blessing Box, to be donated to Alton’s Crisis Food Center. “In today’s world, to put together a model that’s this innovative, I guarantee you there’s no one else in the entire state that is approaching any kind of level like this,” said John Becker, Challenge Unlimited’s Vice President of Operations. “It’s really the dignity of feeding folks with the dignity of work. We have people who are really excited.” Becker and Jeff Adams, a representative with Theodora Farms, said

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This weekend offers an exciting variety of events, from engaging community activities like fish fries and Easter egg hunts to captivating performances and health fairs, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. For a complete listing of all events, visit RiverBender Events . If you want to make sure even more of the region is aware of your event email cj@riverbender.com and explore our range of Event Promotion Services! Featured Join Fish Haven at Alton VFW Post 1308 for a Fish Fry Every Friday in Lent . Come hungry, bring your crew, and enjoy great food, cold drinks, and live music! Dinner includes Fish, (Buffalo, Catfish Filet, Catfish Nuggets, or Cod), Hushpuppies, 2 Sides, and Bread for $15. Available from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Godfrey Knights of Columbus Friday Fish Frys will be held Every Friday, March 7 through April 11, 2025 , from 4-7 p.m. at the McNicholas Club on Stamper Lane. Buffalo, whitefish, whole catfish, shrimp, and baked fish and cheese pizza will be

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EAST ALTON - The East Alton Ice Arena will host a free on-ice Easter egg hunt this weekend. On Saturday, April 12, 2025, kids of all ages are invited to the arena at 631 Lewis & Clark Boulevard in East Alton for an egg hunt on and around the ice. On Sunday, April 13, a sensory-friendly egg hunt will be held at 11:15 a.m. Participants must wear tennis shoes to walk on the ice. “We’d love to have as many people as we can,” said Katie McKeon with the East Alton Ice Arena. “We appreciate the community. We try to give back to the community. Again, these are free Easter egg hunts. They just need to bring a bag.” Starting at 3 p.m. on April 12, kids ages 1–3 can hunt for eggs. Kids ages 4–7 will join the hunt at 4 p.m., followed by 8–11-year-olds at 5 p.m. At 6 p.m., middle school students can join in the fun. The evening will conclude with an Easter egg hunt for high school students at 9 p.m. The Easter Bunny will also be on hand from

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