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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today delivered a speech on the Senate floor to honor the four American soldiers—including one Illinoisan—who were stationed in Lithuania and tragically died last month while on a mission to recover a vehicle immobilized during a training exercise. The soldiers include Staff Sergeant Jose Dueñez Jr. from Joliet, Illinois; Staff Sergeant Edvin F. Franco; Staff Sergeant Troy S. Knutson-Collins; and Private First-Class Dante D. Taitano—all part of the 1st Armored Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division. “I have come to the Senate floor before to talk about my connections with the country of Lithuania—where my mother was born. She came to the United States as an immigrant at the age of two… During my time in Congress, I have tried to make sure Lithuania’s heroic path to freedom, the EU, and NATO are strongly supported by their American allies and the United States Congress. Now more

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ST. LOUIS – St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer has shut down the City’s private building stabilization program, which the City had used to make repairs to private properties, billing the property owners. The Mayor’s Office is now working with the Assessor’s Office and City Counselor’s Office to lift all remaining liens and ensure that no cloud is left on any title as a result of the program. “This building stabilization program was well-intentioned but, unfortunately, very poorly executed,” said Mayor Cara Spencer. “As we have seen in previous media coverage, the City has been billing property owners for work that wasn’t done and causing undue stress to communities already suffering from blight. Given the widespread and well-documented problems, we had no choice but to end this program and re-evaluate more effective ways of making much-needed investments in North St. Louis.”

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul led a coalition of 14 attorneys general today in sending a letter to Congress, urging members to oppose two Congressional bills that would prohibit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from relying on scientific assessments from the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) program, which are critical to protect Americans against deadly exposure to toxic chemicals. Raoul and the coalition’s letter also urges Congress to oppose the Trump administration’s effort to dismantle the EPA Office of Research and Development (ORD), which is the research arm of the EPA that provides the scientific basis for EPA’s work. “I am urging Congress to oppose the Trump administration’s attack on science and the Office of Research and Development, which is critical to helping the EPA and states protect residents from toxic chemicals. The EPA must be able to conduct research and rely on scientific data in order to hel

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What if you could improve your mental clarity, reduce stress, and enhance your overall well-being with just a few minutes of practice each day? Meditation, an ancient practice embraced worldwide, offers precisely that and more. Far from being a mystical or esoteric activity, meditation has garnered significant attention in scientific communities for its profound effects on the brain and body. This article explores the tangible benefits of meditation and provides practical guidance on how to begin your own practice. The Science-Backed Benefits of Meditation Meditation is more than a method of relaxation; it’s a powerful tool for mental and physical health supported by extensive research. Numerous studies have demonstrated that regular meditation can positively impact brain function, emotional regulation, and physical health. Improved Mental Health and Emotional Well-being One of the most widely recognized benefits of meditation is its ability to reduce stress. The American

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April 30 has long been a date marked by pivotal moments that have shaped the course of global history. Perhaps the most impactful event associated with April 30 is the fall of Saigon in 1975, a defining moment that effectively ended the Vietnam War and reshaped the geopolitical landscape of Southeast Asia. On this day, North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam, leading to the reunification of the country under communist control. The event marked the culmination of years of conflict and had profound consequences for international relations, American foreign policy, and the lives of millions of Vietnamese people. The images of helicopters evacuating embassy personnel and desperate civilians seeking escape remain etched in global consciousness as symbols of the turbulent era. Going back in time, April 30, 1789, holds a special place in American history as George Washington took the oath of office to become the first President of the United States. This

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Orchestra and Choirs and Opera Edwardsville will wrap a week-long residency with a concert performance of Cavalleria Rusticana by Pietro Mascagni. The performance weekend is a co-presentation with SIUE’s Arts & Issues . Guest soloists from Opera Edwardsville will join SIUE student performers in both the orchestra and choir, conducted by Michael Mishra, DA, Director of Orchestral Studies. Concert times are 7:30 p.m. both Friday and Saturday evenings, May 2 and 3. "We are thrilled to continue our established relationship with Opera Edwardsville through the Cavalleria Rusticana residency,” said Marc Schapman, professor of voice and chair of the Department of Music. “This collaboration brings some of the finest voices in opera to work alongside our talented students, orchestra, and choir. We are deeply grateful to Arts & Issues for partnering with us to present this powerful concert, and to the Illinois Arts

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) released the following statement in response to the devastating car crash in Chatham, which claimed the lives of two 7-year-olds, an 8-year-old, and an 18-year-old. Six other children were hospitalized, one of whom remains in critical condition as of this morning. “The loss of these young lives is something no parent, no family, and no community should ever have to bear. To the families of these four victims and those injured, my heart aches for you. You and all those touched by this nightmare are in my constant thoughts and prayers. “I am grateful to the first responders who acted with remarkable bravery and urgency, as well as to the school staff, faith leaders, Red Cross, and volunteers who have offered their support to our community. "As the days and weeks unfold, I hope our community continues to support and uplift one another through this challenging time.”

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ROXANA – Phillips 66 is proud to celebrate April as Good Energy Month , a company-wide initiative that encourages employees across the country to engage in meaningful volunteer service. Employees around the country participate in company-sponsored service projects and are also encouraged to donate their personal time to support local organizations. Wood River Refinery hosted its annual volunteer project to support a local native forest preserve. On April 24, sixteen employees, including members of the Refinery’s Environmental team, donated 64 hours to support the Edwardsville Children’s Museum Micro Forest. Volunteers performed critical tasks including weeding, staking, replacing tree tubes, and mulching to help the young forest thrive. “This is our fifth year supporting this project, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see the progress and growth of the trees in this micro-forest,” said Melissa Erker, Director of Mid Continent Public Affairs

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EDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville Township is pleased to announce that the Township Board passed Paid Parental Leave for Edwardsville Township full-time employees. The resolution provides up to twelve weeks of paid leave for new mothers and fathers. “Edwardsville Township strives to be a leader in our community and is aware of the many challenges facing new parents,” said Township Supervisor Kevin Hall. “We hope this demonstrates how much we value our great employees and will be an example for other organizations in our community.” From the University of Illinois School of Labor and Employee Relations: Paid parental leave is associated with lower rates of child mortality, higher rates of vaccination, reduced risk of childhood obesity and diabetes, and more regular health check-ups. Paid parental leave increases weekly hours worked for mothers by up to 17 percent in the years after birth, boosting labor force participation. Paid leave for fathers shortens

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ALTON - OSF Moeller Cancer Center will host their inaugural Women’s Health Fair to kick off Women’s Health Month. From 3–5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, community members can stop by the Moeller Cancer Center in Alton for free breast exams, skin cancer screenings, genetic testing, cholesterol and glucose testing, blood pressure readings and more. Jill Pruitt, oncology services navigator, and Dana Matesa, cancer care coordinator, explained that the goal is to provide free services to women and remind them to take care of themselves. “We wanted to do it around Mother’s Day,” Pruitt said. “Women just are so busy taking care of everybody that sometimes we forget about ourselves. So we thought it would be a good idea to do it.” There are only 32 slots available for the breast cancer screenings; you must register for a slot by calling 618-433-7610 to make an appointment. Every other service is available on a walk-in basis. Severa

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ST. CLAIR COUNTY – The Illinois Department of Transportation will hold two public meetings to discuss plans to replace the bridge that carries Illinois 111 (Kingshighway) over the CSX Rose Lake Railroad Yard between Fairmont City and Washington Park in St. Clair County. The meetings will be held: Thursday, May 15 4-7 p.m. Community Space at City Hall 4001 Cookson Road, Fairmont City Tuesday, May 20 4-7 p.m. All Nations Church (HOPTAN) Community Center 5501 N. Park Drive, Washington Park This project involves replacing the Illinois 111 (Kingshighway) bridge over the CSX Rose Lake Railroad Yard between Fairmont City and Washington Park in St. Clair County. The bridge was originally constructed in 1935 and last rehabilitated in 1985. The purpose of the meetings is to provide an overview of the project and obtain public input. Handouts and display boards will be available for public review, as well as information regarding engineering,

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SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. - Musicians from the US Air Force Band of Mid-America’s will give a series of public concerts in and around St. Louis in May. The concerts include: May 16, 12:00 PM, St. Louis Art Museum (1 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110) May 17, 7:00 PM, Kirkwood Performing Arts Center, Strauss Theater (210 E Monroe Ave, Kirkwood, MO 63122) May 18, 2:30 PM, Benedictine Living Community at The Shrine (726 Community Drive, Belleville, IL 62223) May 19, 7:00 PM, McKendree University, Hettenhausen Performing Arts Center (400 N Alton St, Lebanon, IL 62254) The USAF Band of Mid-America will present an evening of chamber works in an intimate concert setting. Program will include music of all genres, performances by solo musicians, duos, and chamber ensembles. Admission to these performances is free and open to the public. These are family-friendly, all-ages events.

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A limited quantity of Trader Joe’s Sesame Miso Salad with Salmon is voluntarily being recalled because the topping packet may potentially contain an undeclared milk allergen. The product may contain milk that is not declared on the label. 500 units of the salad were mistakenly packaged with a sealed packet of parmesan cheese crumbles (instead of a packet of crispy onions). People who have sensitivity or allergy to milk may be at risk of an adverse reaction if they consume this product. To date, there have been no reported adverse reactions to this product. The product subject to the recall was distributed to Illinois and Missouri stores. The voluntary recalled product, which was produced by Taylor Fresh Foods Illinois, has the Use By date of April 28, 2025 and April 29, 2025 and was distributed to Trader Joe’s stores in AL, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, WI. This voluntary recall does not apply to any other products or brands produced or

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MARYVILLE - The Maryville Police Department is addressing recent complaints about solicitors operating in the area, emphasizing that no active solicitation permits have been issued by the village. The police department reminds residents that authorized solicitors must display a permit on a lanyard around their neck and are allowed to solicit only between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. To obtain a solicitation permit in Maryville, individuals must pass a thorough background check, which must be completed before a permit is issued. This process is designed to protect the safety of the community. Residents are urged to contact the Maryville Police Department if they have concerns or suspicions about any solicitor. Authorities advise the public not to allow strangers into their homes or share personal information with unknown individuals. The police department underscores that community safety remains a top priority. For any additional information, contact the Maryville Police at (618) 344-8899.

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CARLINVILLE – A local health department will offer free gun safes, firearm safety tips, and more at an upcoming event aimed to help keep local firearm-owning families safe. Macoupin County Safe Families , part of the Macoupin County Public Health Department , is hosting a Firearm Safety Training event next month on Thursday, May 29, 2025 from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Bothwell Auditorium of Blackburn College at 700 College Ave. in Carlinville. In addition to valuable insights and practical safety tips, everyone who pre-registers and attends the entire training session will go home with their choice of a free gun safe, lockbox, or gun lock, with pickup available at the end of the session. To sign up by the May 23, 2025 deadline, email safefamilies@mcphd.net , call 217-854-5322, or fill out this online form . The event will also feature a lineup of notable guest speakers. Macoupin County State’s Attorney Jordan Garrison will give a presentation on Karina’s Law, followed

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ALTON — Travis L. Watley, 40, of Alton, was charged Monday, April 28, 2025, with aggravated unlawful restraint and domestic battery following a domestic disturbance reported Sunday morning, April 27, 2025, in the 2100 block of Mulberry Street in Alton. Officers from the Alton Police Department responded at approximately 9 a.m. on April 27 after a female victim reported being battered by Watley and held against her will. The woman safely exited the residence, and Watley surrendered to authorities. Subsequently, the Alton Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division and Patrol Division executed a search warrant at the home, where they seized evidence related to the investigation. Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced the charges: aggravated unlawful restraint, a Class 3 felony, and domestic battery, classified as a fourth or subsequent offense, also a Class 3 felony. Judge Nielsen signed an arrest warrant ordering Watley to be held at the Madison

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today reintroduced the Cahokia Mounds Mississippian Culture Study Act to require the National Park Service (NPS) to conduct a Special Resources Study (SRS) on Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site and its satellite sites. Durbin and Duckworth have long pushed for Cahokia Mounds to receive a National Historical Site designation from NPS, but in a congressional hearing in the 117th Congress, NPS indicated that a SRS must first be conducted on the site. If Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site were to be elevated beyond its current designation as a National Historic Landmark, the site would be given additional protections for the ancient mounds in St. Clair and Madison Counties along with Sugarloaf Mound in St. Louis – the city’s only remaining mound. “Cahokia Mounds is an important natural, archeological, and cultural landmark that represents the indigenous peoples

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SOUTH ROXANA – A Cottage Hills woman accused of damaging a Tesla is among two local residents recently charged with vehicle-related offenses. Stacy M. Frank, 37, of Cottage Hills, was charged on April 24, 2025 with one count of criminal damage to property, a Class 4 felony. On Jan. 21, 2025, Frank allegedly caused over $500 worth of damage to the windshield of a red 2019 Tesla Model 3. The case against Frank was presented by the South Roxana Police Department, and she was granted pretrial release from custody. Another local woman was charged on the same day in a separate car-related case. Elizabeth A. Hargrove, 34, of South Roxana, was charged with a Class 2 felony count of unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle. On Feb. 4, 2025, Hargrove allegedly possessed a 2000 Mitsubishi Galant with a Missouri registration number which she knew to be stolen. The South Roxana Police Department also presented the case against Frank, who was also granted pretrial release from custody

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EDWARDSVILLE - Hope Animal Rescues will host their first annual Plant Sale to benefit the 109 dogs in their care. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025, community members can stop by SoCal Soul in Edwardsville to purchase a variety of plants. SoCal Soul will also donate 10% of their profits that day to the rescue. Jackie Spiker, who oversees Hope Animal Rescues, explained the Plant Sale will go a long way toward helping the animals. “Community is very important to our success, and we have a very good and loyal animal-loving community here,” she said. “It’s important for all of us to work together to help the animals and better their lives, which in turn enriches human life.” Spiker said volunteers have gathered seedlings and other plants, which were all donated for the sale. They have a wide variety, from ferns to geraniums. She believes you can find “everything for your garden to get you ready for spring and summer.” She

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EAST ALTON – Several felonies have been filed against an East Alton woman found with the personal and financial information of 14 different people. Jessica A. Wyatt, 44, of East Alton, was charged on April 21, 2025 with four Class 2 felony counts of aggravated identity theft, 10 Class 3 felony counts of identity theft, and a Class 4 felony count of deceptive practices. On Oct. 18, 2024, Wyatt allegedly stole personal identifying information from 14 different people, four of whom were 60 years of age or older. Among the information stolen were bank account numbers, social security numbers, financial account login information, driver’s license numbers, and more. Wyatt also reportedly possessed fraudulent checks which she intended to use to access the funds of another person. The East Alton Police Department presented the case against Wyatt, who was granted pretrial release from custody. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of

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