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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC)—and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) and 16 of their Senate colleagues in introducing legislation to expand congressional oversight of foreign assistance decision-making. The Foreign Assistance Accountability and Oversight Act would require the State Department’s Director of Foreign Assistance to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate and for all foreign assistance funding provided to the State Department or U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to be used as directed within 90 days of its appropriation by Congress. The Director of Foreign Assistance is currently not confirmed by the Senate, and the Trump Administration has refused to publicly identify the individual currently occupying this powerful position. “Donald Trump and Elon Musk illegally dismantling

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) introduced the Bringing Low-Cost Options and Competition while Keeping Incentives for New Generics (BLOCKING) Act, which would discourage pharmaceutical companies from parking their exclusivity on a generic drug application. “Too many Americans are burdened by high drug prices, and Congress must act. Current policies are failing to foster competition and are hindering affordable options,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “This bill aims to right this wrong by reducing exclusivity, enabling generics to enter the market sooner and lower prices for people.” Under current law, drug manufacturers are granted 180 days of market exclusivity when they are the first to file a generic drug application for a drug that does not yet have a generic. Unfortunately, some companies "park" or "hold" their exclusivity, blocking other companies from producing generics and keeping prices inflated. The BLOCKING

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CARLINVILLE - The Cavaliers secured a spot in the sectional competition by finishing second at the ACES Regional, formerly known as WYSE, hosted by Carlinville High School at Blackburn College on Friday, Feb. 7, 2025. The team, which was edged out by Roxana, will advance to compete at Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville on March 7, 2025. Sam Wilson stood out in the competition, tying for first place in the math portion and earning third place in chemistry. Joanna Roemer also made a notable contribution, finishing second in English, while Victorine Harrington secured third place in physics. The team, under the guidance of coaches Ethan Klaffer, Jason Crowell, and Darrin DeNeve, showcased a strong performance with contributions from team members including above front row: Victorine Harrington, Bailey Maberry, Kassidy Michaels, Elyse Eldred, and Joanna Roemer. Middle row: Coach Ethan Klaffer, Coach Jason Crowell, Annalee Johns, Marleigh Konneker, Taylor Brandenburg, Brendon Atterberry,

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EDWARDSVILLE - At a birthday party on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, a quick response by a trained employee at Altitude Trampoline Park in Edwardsville helped save the life of an unconscious man. Taylor Smith, a senior at Edwardsville High School, was working on Saturday when she was alerted to the situation. According to Smith, a party attendee's father had collapsed and was unresponsive. "I grabbed the AED," she said when she heard of the situation, referring to the automated external defibrillator. Smith, who works at the trampoline park, had learned about the device during a health class at Edwardsville High School. "I could not be more thankful that I was able to stay calm and knew to grab the AED," she added. Taylor said another person at the Trampoline Park on Saturday, who works in a medical field, assisted by placing the AED pads on the man. After the device was used, the man regained consciousness just as the ambulance arrived. Smith emphasized the importance of knowing how

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ALTON – An 18-year-old Alton man faces a major felony for shooting someone in the leg after being “disrespected” by the victim. Brandon A. Gray, 18, of Alton, was charged with a Class X felony count of aggravated battery with a firearm. On Jan. 28, 2025, Gray reportedly shot the victim in the leg at the intersection of State and Miller Streets in Alton. Further details about the incident are contained in a petition to deny Gray’s pretrial release. “Upon arrival contacted the victim, who was suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg,” the petition states. “The victim identified the defendant as the person who shot him.” Gray admitted to “shooting the defendant and hiding the gun in a storage unit” in an interview with the Alton Police Department. The gun was later recovered from the storage unit Gray described. The state’s petition to keep Gray detained was upheld by a detention order, which states the shooting

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Emma and Jorden, a couple from Alton, have shared their love story and the foundation of their relationship, which began on Aug. 16, 2021. The couple describes their bond as one that thrives despite challenges, emphasizing that they face struggles together. In a recent submission to Riverbender.com, Emma highlighted what makes their relationship special. "No matter the struggle, we get through it together," she said, reflecting on their partnership. A memorable moment for the couple was moving into their first house together after adopting two dogs. This experience has contributed to the growth of their relationship and has added joy to their lives. If you want to tell of your love story, click here.

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SPRINGFIELD — Today, Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) Chairman Sean Smoot issued the following statement on the life-saving impact of Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training in law enforcement, as demonstrated recently by Sergeant Travis Schaal of the Chatham Police Department: “Late one night while on patrol, Sergeant Schaal noticed a vehicle parked on train tracks in the 200 block of North State Street. Hours later, the vehicle remained in the same location, prompting his concern. Trusting his instincts, he approached the car and found an 18-year-old woman who initially claimed she was fine. However, relying on the skills and techniques he gained through CIT training, Sergeant Schaal engaged the young woman in conversation and created an atmosphere of trust. “During their discussion, she revealed her true intentions: she had been struggling at home and in school and was planning to take her own life by waiting for an oncoming

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ROXANA - Lexi Chamberlain and Macy Hart, two senior cheerleaders from Roxana High School, have made significant strides in their sport under the guidance of Coach Stephanie Palen. Both athletes have demonstrated commitment and excellence in cheerleading, achieving numerous accolades during their high school careers. Chamberlain and Hart are Midwest Members Credit Union Female Athletes of the Month for the Shells. Chamberlain, who has been cheering for a decade, has earned distinctions such as All-Conference and All-American honors. As captain of the cheer team, she has taken on a leadership role in her final year. "Cheerleading has taught me what it's like to have a family that isn't blood," Chamberlain said. One of her most memorable experiences includes qualifying for the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) state competition for two consecutive years. Hart, who has cheered for eight years, also boasts impressive achievements, including All-American and All-Conference titles,

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Did you know that the average person consumes about 100 bowls of soup each year? Given its popularity, it’s no surprise that soup has earned a place as a staple in many diets around the world. But when it comes to winter, soup transforms from a mere dish into a comforting embrace, nourishing both body and soul. As we delve into the world of winter soups, it's time to discover how these steaming bowls can be packed with nutrients while tantalizing our taste buds. The Nutritional Power of Soup Soup is often underestimated as a mere starter or side dish, but its nutritional potential is immense. A well-crafted soup can serve as a complete meal, offering a balanced combination of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. They can be a vehicle for various ingredients, allowing for a diverse array of flavors and health benefits. For instance, a vegetable-based soup can provide a wealth of antioxidants and fiber, while a legume-based soup can deliver a hearty dose of plant-based

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Did you know that approximately 5% of the U.S. population experiences Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) each year? This distinct form of depression occurs at a specific time of the year, often aligning with the darker months. While it might seem like a simple case of the "winter blues," the reality is far more complex, involving biological, psychological, and environmental components. Understanding the science behind SAD is crucial for effective management and support. What is Seasonal Affective Disorder? Seasonal Affective Disorder is characterized by recurring episodes of depression that coincide with specific seasons, most commonly fall and winter. The symptoms can be debilitating, including feelings of sadness, lethargy, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep patterns, and even suicidal thoughts in severe cases. The disorder is not merely a passing phase; it can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and functioning. Research indicates that SAD is more prevalent

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Did you know that a study from the University of California found that people who express their emotions through writing report a significant boost in their overall happiness? Love letters, in particular, serve as timeless vessels of affection, capturing the essence of our deepest feelings. Yet, in this digital age dominated by quick texts and emojis, the art of writing a love letter seems to be fading into obscurity. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Crafting a letter that comes from the heart can create a lasting impact on your relationship. Understanding the Power of Words Words have the remarkable ability to convey emotions that sometimes remain unspoken. When you sit down to write a love letter, it’s essential to recognize the weight that your words carry. A well-crafted letter can evoke a sense of nostalgia, joy, and intimacy, strengthening the bond between partners. Think of it as a personal keepsake, something tangible that your partner can revisit time and

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February 10th has seen its fair share of significant events that have left an indelible mark on history. Looking back, on February 10, 1942, the United States saw the establishment of the first ever military service for women, known as the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC). This was a groundbreaking moment in U.S. history, as it allowed women to serve in non-combat roles during World War II. The formation of the WAAC opened doors for women in the military, challenging gender norms and paving the way for future generations. Today, women serve in a wide array of roles within the armed forces, a testament to the progress made since that historical day. Another significant event occurred on February 10, 1962, when American pilot Francis Gary Powers was exchanged for Soviet spy Rudolf Abel. This event took place during the height of the Cold War and was a pivotal moment in U.S.-Soviet relations. The exchange, which took place at the Glienicke Bridge in Berlin, symbolized a brief

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PONTOON BEACH – A man accused of domestic battery in Pontoon Beach has been released from custody under certain conditions. Dominique K. Lewis, 30, of East St. Louis, was charged with a Class 2 felony count of aggravated domestic battery on Feb. 5, 2025. On Jan. 24, 2025, Lewis allegedly strangled a household or family member, according to court documents. He reportedly had active warrants out of Madison County at the time of the incident. While he was remanded to jail for his initial court appearance, Lewis has since been granted pretrial release with additional conditions, including that he have no contact with the victim in this case and not enter the premises of her Granite City residence. Another condition of his release mandates he have no firearms in his possession. Within 24 hours upon his release, he was ordered to surrender any firearms in his possession and his Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card to the agency investigating the case, the Pontoon Beach Police

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EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Police Department has expanded its team with two special recruits sporting wagging tails and boundless enthusiasm. Meet Chase and Max, the department’s first-ever K-9s to take on the additional role of therapy dogs for the SIUE campus. These four-legged K-9s are already making a difference, offering comfort, companionship, and support to students, faculty, and staff. Chase and Max come to SIUE through a specialized rehabilitation and rescue program through the Cook County Department of Corrections, Tails of Redemption , which trains dogs for emotional support and community engagement. Unlike traditional K-9s focused on enforcement, these pups are here to soothe stress, ease anxiety and build positive connections between the police force and the campus community. The dogs undergo obedience and distraction training, ensuring they remain calm and focused in various environments. They are a crucial asset for victim

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CHICAGO- Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined Freedman Seating Company and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to announce new investments in the company’s Chicago manufacturing facility that will create 50 new full-time jobs and retain 676 full-time jobs. Freedman Seating Company’s $4 million investment in capital expenditures, bolstered by an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement, will enable the company to make site improvements to accommodate new manufacturing equipment at its nearly 100-year-old facility in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood. “Through the competitive incentive programs, workforce development, and other business development efforts, our state is supporting businesses that create jobs and invest back into their communities,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Illinois is one of the best places in the world for manufacturing companies, and today once again we’re proving that our state

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) reintroduced the Right to Contraception Act , legislation that would create a statutory right to obtain and use contraceptives and ensure health care providers have a right to provide contraceptives, contraception and share information about this essential care. Last June, Senate Republicans shamefully blocked the bill from passing the Senate. “Ever since the Supreme Court threw out Roe v. Wade, we’ve seen extreme MAGA Republicans across the country work to roll back health care and tear reproductive freedom away from Americans—which has cruelly threatened birth control, plan B, IUDs and other forms of contraception,” said Senator Duckworth. “I refuse to let my daughters grow up in a world with fewer rights than I had. As MAGA Republicans continue their anti-choice, anti-science crusade, it is as important as ever that the Senate acts t

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CHICAGO - Attorney General Kwame Raoul today urged Illinoisians who are considering making a wager on the Super Bowl this Sunday to be fully informed about the risks of online and app-based sports betting when deciding whether to place a bet. Illinois allows certain sports betting apps and websites to operate within the state. Sports betting operators must be approved for licensure by the Illinois Gaming Board and must comply with all regulations to lawfully operate in Illinois. People can check the Illinois Gaming Board’s licensee list to see if a sportsbook is authorized to operate in Illinois. “If you decide to bet on the Super Bowl or any other sporting event, take the time to determine that you are placing your bet with an entity that is licensed by the Illinois Gaming Board and operating legally in the state,” Raoul said. “Using an unlicensed betting service puts your personal information and your money at risk. Even if a sports betting website or app

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CHICAGO- Yesterday, Governor Pritzker spoke with the Consul General of Mexico in Chicago, Ambassador Reyna Torres Mendivil, as part of his ongoing efforts to protect Illinois jobs and keep costs down amid the looming threats of Trump's Taxes on Working Families. During their conversation, Governor Pritzker and Ambassador Torres Mendivil discussed the strong economic and cultural relationship between Illinois and Mexico and the importance of preserving trade in key sectors like agriculture and machinery. They also discussed the harm proposed tariffs could inflict on businesses and working families in both Mexico and Illinois, such as disrupting business operations and increasing the prices of everyday goods like groceries. Governor Pritzker committed to remaining in touch with Ambassador Torres Mendivil with information about critical Illinois companies and products that would be affected by trade war to help Mexico limit the impacts of retaliatory tariffs on Illinois. Both parties

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AURORA – Aurora University has named Antonia Phillips of Alton, IL, to the Dean's List for the fall 2024 semester. Phillips is majoring in Sport Management and Marketing. The Dean's List recognizes full-time undergraduate students who have earned a 3.6 grade-point average or higher. Founded in 1893, Aurora University is a four-year, private, nonprofit, accredited higher education institution located on a 39-acre campus in Aurora, the second largest city in Illinois. The university serves approximately 4,100 undergraduate students across more than 60 academic programs. More than 1,800 graduate students are enrolled at the institution as well. AU leadership, faculty, and staff are committed to the success of AU students, offering strong academic support programs and learning opportunities that prepare students to achieve their goals after graduation. Learn more at aurora.edu.

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JERSEYVILLE – Jersey Community High School (JCHS) has partnered with local businesses to shine a spotlight on students nominated through the F.O.C.U.S. (Finding One Clearly Unique Student) program for January 2025. “Students of the Month” are selected based upon the number of F.O.C.U.S. nominations a student earns in a given month. The F.O.C.U.S. program allows teachers to select and recognize students each week for exceptional academic performance or kindness. Sophomore Lola Reed (left) and junior Ava Deist (right) were selected as Students of the Month in conjunction with Jerseyville Banking Center. Reed and Deist received the most F.O.C.U.S. nominations from their teachers in January, earning them both the Students of the Month honor at JCHS. They are congratulated by Sidney Parker of Jerseyville Banking Center. Freshman Jada Baro (right) and eighth grader Allison Haarmann (left) have been chosen as Students of the Month in conjunction with CNB Bank

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