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EDWARDSVILLE – The Edwardsville Police Department is reminding drivers to buckle up as part of the national “Click It or Ticket” campaign. This high-visibility seat belt enforcement initiative runs from May 16 to May 27, 2025, coinciding with the Memorial Day holiday. "Seat belts should be used by everyone, and it is the simplest way to reduce injury or save a life in a crash," said Lt. Matt Senci. Illinois enacted its seat belt law 40 years ago on July 1, 1985, becoming the third state to require seat belt use for drivers and front-seat passengers aged eight and older. Children under eight were required to be secured in appropriate child safety seats. In July 2003, Illinois strengthened the law to allow officers to pull over and ticket drivers solely for failing to buckle up – a change that led to a significant increase in compliance. Since the seat belt law’s initial introduction and subsequent upgrade more than two decades ago, seat belt usage has

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SPRINGFIELD – House Republican members of the Illinois House Energy & Environment and Public Utilities Committees held a Capitol news conference on Tuesday to warn of a coming summer energy cost crisis and offer solutions to expand energy production capacity. The Republicans held the press conference after last week sending the House’s Energy & Environment Committee Chair and Vice Chair a letter explaining the urgent need for hearings into the recent results of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) capacity auction which returned a shocking $666.50 per Megawatt-day price across all zones in the summer. That same price just one year ago was $30. State Representative Dave Severin (R-Benton) serves as the House Republican ranking member and spokesman on the House Energy & Environment Committee. Severin says Illinois' energy policies are to blame for the recent huge spikes in energy costs for Illinois utility customers. “House Republicans are concerned

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – To honor our nation’s Veterans Affairs (VA) researchers and commemorate the 100th anniversary of Veteran-focused research beginning at what is now known as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), along with U.S Senators Murray (D-WA) and Blumenthal (D-CT)—member and Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (SVAC), respectively—introduced a resolution to designate May 12th to 16th as Veterans Affairs Research Week. Her resolution recognizes the vital, lifesaving and cutting-edge research conducted by the department that improves the lives of Veterans, people in the United States and individuals worldwide. Duckworth is a combat Veteran and a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (SVAC). “The scientists and researchers at the VA are incredible public servants who work relentlessly to improve the care and services our Veterans have earned,”

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EDWARDSVILLE – Center Grove Road will be closed east of Esic Drive for several months beginning Tuesday, May 27, 2025, for replacement of the bridge that carries traffic over the MCT Nickel Plate Trail. The approximately $3.6 million project will include replacement of the bridge superstructure and guardrails, pier repairs, pavement patching and marking. The closure was scheduled for the summer months to limit travel disruptions and slowdowns near the two schools on Center Grove Road – Edwardsville High School and Metro East Lutheran High School. The road is expected to reopen just prior to Edwardsville School District 7’s first day of the 2025-26 school year, which is Wednesday, August 20. Construction crews will be on site 10 hours a day, six days a week, weather permitting. Detour signs will be posted. To bypass the closure, drivers can use Esic Drive and Governors’ Parkway for access to and from Illinois Routes 159 and 157. Access will be maintained throughout

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ALTON – The Alton Educational Foundation is pleased to announce that nominations are now being accepted for the Alton High School Wall of Fame Induction Class of 2025. Members of the community are encouraged to submit nominations between now and June 9 for deserving recipients. The Alton High Wall of Fame recognizes excellence in a wide array of areas and individuals from any one or more of the following areas can be nominated: Graduates of Alton High School (must have graduated prior to 2015 for consideration as a Class of 2025 Inductee) AND/OR Retired employees of the Alton School District AND/OR Community members who have achieved excellence in their respective field and/or community (can include, but not limited to, service fields such as business, the arts, education, healthcare, military service, civil service, nonprofit and others). Community members are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals from any one or more of the three categories. Persons may

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EAST ST. LOUIS — A St. Louis man was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison Friday after admitting to robbing four banks in less than three weeks in late 2023. Tyrone Leslie, 40, pleaded guilty in January to four counts of bank robbery, with one count charged in the Southern District of Illinois and three in the Eastern District of Missouri. The Missouri cases were transferred to southern Illinois to be prosecuted together. Leslie’s robberies occurred between Nov. 14 and Dec. 4, 2023. Court documents show he took $2,740 from U.S. Bank on Tesson Ferry Road in St. Louis on Nov. 14, $964 from People’s National Bank on Hampton Avenue in St. Louis on Nov. 17, and $5,050 from PNC Bank on Manchester Road in St. Louis on Dec. 2. On Dec. 4, he attempted to steal $4,125 from FCB Bank in Caseyville. After the FCB Bank robbery, Leslie led police on a high-speed chase. The Caseyville Police Department led the investigation. U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft said, “Bank

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STAUNTON – Congratulations to the SCTE Gateway Chapter (Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers), for winning three major national awards at the recent SCTE Chapter Leadership Conference that was hosted in St. Louis, Missouri. The chapter’s purpose is to provide local networking, professional development and certification opportunities to current and prospective members across 70 locations worldwide. They were named the SCTE Chapter of the Year for the third year in a row out of 67 other chapters across the globe! This is a powerful acknowledgement of the passion, leadership, and excellence coming straight from this chapter. The Gateway Chapter also received the “Membership Award” along with the “Striving for Excellence Award”. Madison Communications, a fully integrated service provider of High-Speed Internet, HDTV, and Voice Service located in Staunton, IL are especially proud of two of their long-time employees that are a part of the SCTE

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SPRINGFIELD - Land of Lincoln Honor Flight continues our 2025 flying season with Mission #74 on June 3, 2025. Mission #74 will serve 96 Veterans including 6 Korean Era veterans 90 Vietnam era veterans from 66 Illinois home towns of Alton, Ashland, Auburn, Beason, Bingham, Bloomington, Blue Mound, Carman, Caseyville, Champaign, Chandlerville, Charleston, Chatham, Cooksville, Cowden, Danville, Decatur, Dieterich, Edinburg, Effingham, Eureka, Fairbury, Forrest, Franklin, Freeport, Germantown, Gibson City, Greenville, Hillsboro, Illiopolis, Indianola, Jacksonville, Jerseyville, Lovington, Mahomet, Mattoon, Monticello, Mt Pulaski, Naperville, Olney, Petersburg, Pontiac, Quincy, Rantoul, Rochester, Rockford, Rossville, South Jacksonville, Sadorus, Secor, Shipman, Shobonier, Springfield, Staunton, Troy, Tuscola, Urbana, Vandalia, Villa Park, Weldon, White Hall, Windsor, Wood River and Yale as well as O’Fallon, Missouri. Our June 3rd veterans represent all branches of

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) criticized House Republicans’ budget resolution that would result in $313 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Budzinski countered Republican claims that these cuts won’t result in a reduction in benefits and highlighted how nutrition assistance helps lift people out of poverty, enables economic mobility, and allows hardworking families a chance at a better life. Budzinski’s opening remarks as prepared for delivery can be found below: Mr. Chairman, one year ago, I sat in this room and shared my disappointment over the proposed Farm Bill. I regret to say that disappointment has only grown. Not only am I troubled by the content of the bill we are marking up today, but also the fact that select Farm Bill provisions are being rolled into a partisan package built on the backs of our most vulnerable neighbors. I want to echo my Democratic colleagues

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EAST ST. LOUIS – East St. Louis School District 189 will host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025, to celebrate the completion of six brand-new tennis courts at East St. Louis Senior High School, located at 4901 State Street. This exciting event will commemorate the construction of post-tension concrete courts equipped with advanced lighting and blended court lines to enhance functionality for student athletes and community use alike. The celebration takes place during National Tennis Month, reinforcing the District’s commitment to expanding access to top-tier facilities and opportunities for youth development. “We are incredibly proud to unveil our new tennis courts that reflect our commitment to providing diverse, high-quality opportunities for our students,” noted Superintendent Arthur R. Culver. “We believe these courts will spark a love for the game and inspire a new generation of student-athletes to explore tennis, build confidence

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ST. LOUIS - For the eighth consecutive year, Schnuck Markets, Inc. is proud to support the Folds of Honor Foundation through a “Round Up at the Register” campaign taking place at all Schnucks stores throughout the Midwest. Folds of Honor is a nonprofit organization that honors the sacrifices of fallen and disabled military veterans and first responders by providing educational scholarships to their spouses and children. Last year’s efforts raised $200,000 which funded 40 scholarships. Since 2018, the Schnucks Folds of Honor Round Up at the Register has raised $5.55 million - enough to support more than 1,100 scholarships. Starting today and continuing through Tuesday, May 27, Schnucks customers will be able to contribute to Folds of Honor at checkout simply by rounding up their purchases to the nearest dollar. Those customers who use self-checkouts and wish to give may choose a $1, $3 or $5 “Scan and Give” option. Schnucks Rewards members also have the

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SPRINGFIELD - Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today hosted a celebration to highlight the achievements of community leaders during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. This year’s theme for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience.” The event, which was held at the state government building at 555 W. Monroe St., honored eight people for their contributions to their communities: a restaurant owner, a business leader, a nursing association leader, a healthy schools advocate, a medical school dean, a state lawmaker, a labor leader, a football coach, and a graphic artist. “Today, we honor leaders who are inspiring others, advocating for healthy schools, and helping our football team gain a competitive edge,” Frerichs said. “These leaders give their time, talent and voice to improve our communities.” Asian Pacific American Heritage Month dates back to 1978, when President Carter signed a joint resolutio

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ALTON - In honor of Seth Kimbro’s birthday, community members are invited to a “Battle for Kimbro” airsoft memorial game complete with prizes, raffles, food and more. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025, Bing Field Paintball and Airsoft Park will host “Battle for Kimbro” to honor Seth and share his story while raising money for Cognitive FX in Utah. Community members can come out and enjoy the day. “I feel like this is a good way to give a shoutout to him for a very good happy birthday from Earth to Heaven,” said Laura Kimbro, Seth’s mother. “That’s just what we’re hoping to do this weekend, and really give awareness and help people.” Seth lost his life to suicide following a traumatic brain injury. In the years since his death, Laura has made it her mission to educate people about the link between traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and post-concussion syndrome depression. Laura explained that

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RIVERBEND - Suicide rates spike in spring. How can you support your community, and what do you do if you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts? Kristina Sandidge, a local Mental Health First Aid instructor, explained there are several warning signs that you might notice before someone attempts to take their life. Whether you’re dealing with a loved one or you’ve encountered a stranger who needs help, there are ways you can intervene. “One of the things we can do as better supports for individuals who might be thinking about suicide is being educated,” Sandidge said. “There’s a lot of stigma associated with mental health and suicide, and when we break down those barriers and we bring in a little bit of education, we get a little bit more comfortable. People are more willing to open up to us.” Sandidge noted that while there are “actually quite a few” warning signs that you might notice, every individual’s experience

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May 14 has been a day marked by pivotal moments that have shaped the course of history across the globe. Whether in politics, science, culture, or exploration, this date offers a fascinating glimpse into humanity's journey through time. Let's explore some of the most significant events that took place on May 14 throughout history. Arguably the most impactful event to occur on May 14 is the declaration of the independence of the State of Israel in 1948. After decades of Zionist efforts and following the end of British Mandate rule in Palestine, David Ben-Gurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel on May 14, 1948. This declaration came just hours before the British Mandate officially ended. The announcement marked the culmination of a complex political and social struggle for a Jewish homeland in the aftermath of the Holocaust and World War II. The declaration was met with immediate recognition by the United States and several other nations,

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What if owning less could actually make you feel richer? In a world overwhelmed by consumerism and constant digital noise, the minimalist lifestyle offers a compelling alternative—one where simplicity leads to clarity, freedom, and well-being. Far from being a mere trend or aesthetic choice, minimalism is rooted in intentionally focusing on what truly matters, cutting through clutter in both physical and mental spaces. Reclaiming Time and Mental Space One of the most profound benefits of minimalism is the restoration of time and mental clarity. Studies show that the average American spends over 2 hours a day shopping online or browsing through products, often driven by impulse rather than need. This constant engagement with material consumption can overwhelm cognitive resources and increase stress. By paring down possessions and commitments, minimalists reduce decision fatigue—the mental exhaustion that comes from making too many trivial choices. For example, Steve Jobs

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JERSEYVILLE – The next phase of the Hollow Avenue Improvement Project is officially set to enter the “construction” stage with full approval from the Jerseyville City Council. City Council members on Tuesday unanimously approved an agreement between the city and Bartlett & West Inc. for Phase 3 (the “construction stage”) of the Hollow Avenue Roadway Improvements Phase 2 project. Roadway improvements made during this stage will span from West Hickory Street to Waggoner Avenue, as previously reported on Riverbender.com . Baxmeyer Construction was awarded the project after submitting the lowest bid of $2,064,000. Streets Commissioner John Miles said construction is expected to begin next month, June 2025, after the city participates in a “pre-construction meeting” required by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). Before the “pre-construction meeting” can be held, Miles said the city needed to ensure an on-site inspector

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GODFREY – Lewis and Clark Community College will celebrate its 54th annual Commencement, May 21, 2025, featuring 2016 alumna Brittney Lehr as the event’s keynote speaker. The ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. at the Hatheway Cultural Center’s Ann Whitney Olin Theatre. “Commencement is a time to honor the hard work and achievements of our students,” said L&C President Ken Trzaska. “We are thrilled to welcome Brittney Lehr back to campus to share her inspiring journey with our graduates.” Lehr, a Carrollton native, graduated from L&C with an Associate in Applied Science degree in 2016. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security from MacMurray College in 2018 and a Juris Doctorate from Southern Illinois University Carbondale in 2022. She currently serves as a felony assistant state’s attorney and DUI attorney in Sangamon County. "Lewis and Clark had the hardest class that I ever took throughout

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ALTON - The M.O.T.H.E.R.S. Unique group - Moms Obligated To Healing, Encouragement, Recovery and Support - hosted a moving and meaningful ceremony on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at James Killion Park to honor mothers who have experienced the unimaginable loss of a child. This solemn and supportive event brought together nearly two dozen mothers to commemorate the lives of their children through a Bench Dedication and a White Dove Release. The organization donated a new bench to the park to offer a quiet, peaceful space where grieving mothers and family members can sit in remembrance and reflection. The ceremony was emceed by Mrs. Vernetta Caffey, introduced by Shirley Ann Thomas, and featured opening scripture and prayer by Minister Annette Campbell, a welcome by Ms. Rita Young, and heartfelt remarks from Ms. Mary Jason, President of M.O.T.H.E.R.S. Unique. Mayor David Goins offered words of comfort during the bench dedication, followed by a moving poem read by Mrs. Michelle Rounds, Hospitality

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HIGHLAND - Melissa Perkes has been honored as the CTE Teacher of the Year in Madison County. Perkes has taught business and technology at Highland High School for the past 22 years. She teaches a variety of computer classes, including Computer Concepts, Photo Manipulation, Electronic Publishing and more. She noted that while she is grateful for the CTE Teacher of the Year honor, she is mostly proud of her students. “I truly appreciate the recognition, but the credit belongs to my students,” Perkes said. “Their creativity, dedication, and hard work are what make the program what it is.” Perkes teaches traditional semester-long classes, but she also oversees students who take courses independently in her classroom. The Media Production class has four students who work independently to create the stadium video board graphics and animations, as well as any graphic or video work that the school needs. Perkes noted that these are “truly exceptional students”

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