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CHICAGO - Following the signing of Trump and Republicans’ ‘Big Beautiful Bill,’ Illinois is raising awareness about the devastating impacts on our working families. This includes draconian cuts and alterations to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which threatens food benefits for an estimated 360,000 Illinoisans, jeopardizes jobs, grocery stores, and harms local economies. "SNAP has been a crucial federal resource for families trying to put food on the table for more than 60 years, but Trump and Republicans would rather children go hungry so their friends can receive tax cuts,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Here in Illinois, we have been working to combat food insecurity for years, and while no state can backfill these costs, the State of Illinois will continue to fight against these harmful impacts and stand up for working families.” SNAP has been a permanent, 100% federally-funded food benefit for more than 60 years. The bill

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SPRINGFIELD – July is Extreme Heat Safety Month, and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) is asking everyone to understand the danger to you, your family, and your pets. “The best preparedness is individual preparedness,” explained IEMA-OHS Acting Director Theodore (Ted) Berger. “If you and your family are ready for extreme heat, you can prevent inconvenience, frustration, and even illness. The recent week-long heat wave was a clear reminder in the Midwest that heat affects us too.” Extreme heat is defined as high heat and humidity temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. Older adults, children, and people with certain illnesses and chronic conditions are at greater risk from extreme heat. Take these steps to prepare for extreme heat and prevent heat-related illnesses: Hydrate with water, not caffeinated or alcoholic beverages Wear light-colored, lightweight, and loose-fitting clothing

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SPRINGFIELD – With peak roadside mowing season underway, the Illinois Department of Transportation is reminding the public to slow down, proceed with caution and pay extra attention when encountering equipment and personnel. In keeping with the recent practice of timing operations to preserve and promote pollinator habitat, the heaviest mowing period will continue until Aug. 15. “By strategically scheduling when and where mowing takes place, IDOT is doing its part to help the environment and Illinois businesses,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “We need your assistance as well. Please be alert for mowing crews who work hard up and down the state, slowing down and giving them plenty of extra distance.” During the summer, IDOT conducts two primary types of mowing. Safety mowing occurs directly adjacent to the road as needed. Maintenance mowing, which lasts for approximately six weeks and starts around July 1, includes areas next t

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EDWARDSVILLE – Job interviews, employment opportunities, a plethora of services, free clothing, door prizes and more will be available to former service personnel at the St. Louis Metro Veterans Resource and Job Fair from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14 at the John F. Kennedy Community Center, 315 Howdershell Road in Florissant, Mo. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) is co-hosting the fair with the City of Florissant and The Kaufman Fund. “The Resource and Job Fair allows veterans to highlight the amazing skills and talents they have from serving their country,” said VUB Outreach Coordinator Bill Schnarr, a U.S. Army veteran. “The partnership between SIUE Veterans Upward Bound, The Kaufman Fund, and the City of Florissant is an amazing opportunity that allows veterans to seek resources and careers that will help improve their lives outside of the military. Veterans have so much to offer and can still serve

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Did you know that spending just 30 minutes outdoors can significantly boost your mood and cognitive function? Yet, many of us overlook the simple joy of a well-planned picnic, often confined to familiar parks or backyards. What if your local area holds untapped picnic spots that combine serene landscapes, practical amenities, and a touch of adventure? This article explores some of the best picnic destinations nearby, offering you fresh ideas to elevate your next outdoor meal. Urban Oasis: Parks That Blend Nature with Convenience In many cities, sprawling parks serve as green lungs amidst the urban hustle. These spaces are ideal for picnics because they balance natural beauty with accessibility. Practical tip: Arrive early on weekends to secure a prime spot, especially near water features or under large trees. Bring insect repellent and a portable blanket to expand your seating options if tables are occupied. Natural Retreats: Forests and Nature Reserves for Immersive Experiences

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July 8 has been a day marked by transformative events that have shaped the course of history across the globe. Arguably the most influential event associated with July 8 is the launch of the first message over the ARPANET in 1969. This event is often hailed as the birth of the Internet, an innovation that has revolutionized the way we communicate, access information, and conduct business. On this day, scientists at UCLA sent the first message to a computer at the Stanford Research Institute, marking the beginning of what would become a global network connecting billions of people. The initial message was intended to be the word ‘LOGIN,’ but the system crashed after transmitting the first two letters, 'L' and 'O.' Yet, this humble beginning paved the way for the digital age, fundamentally altering society in unprecedented ways. Moving further back in history, July 8, 1497, saw Vasco da Gama set sail from Lisbon, Portugal, on his first voyage to India. This expedition was

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DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Sarah Jean Snyder marks her first publishing foray with the release of “He Said Saga: The Daughter's Story” (published by WestBow Press). This book shares the author's journey with multiple sclerosis (MS), intertwined with her father's experiences with the same disease, highlighting the power of faith in times of adversity. Following the legacy of her father’s original memoir, “Saga: One Man’s Battle with MS. The Beginning,” written over 30 years ago, Snyder reflects on her father’s experiences and her own journey with the disease. Here, she shares her own story, revealing how she learned to cope with her father's decline and eventual dependence on others. As she navigated the complexities of growing up with a father suffering from a debilitating illness, Snyder faced her own diagnosis years later. She tells how, through her father’s circumstances, she learned how to function through sadness, how to trust even

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ALTON — The Alton Fire Department responded to a structure fire Monday evening, July 7, 2025, on the 1100 block of East Sixth Street, arriving just before 6 p.m. to find heavy flames and smoke coming from the second story of the home. Firefighters quickly deployed their deck gun and hose lines, managing to extinguish most of the fire promptly. According to Alton Fire Chief Jesse Jemison, the fire appears to have been set deliberately and is believed to be connected to a domestic incident and an eviction. The Illinois State Fire Marshal was called to assist with the investigation. No injuries were reported at the scene. The Alton Police Department stated that additional information will be released on Tuesday.

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ALTON – Ward 4 Alderwoman Rosie Brown is asking community members to offer their support following the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old from Alton who died on July 4, 2025. Brown called on members of the Alton community to pray for the victim’s family at Monday’s Committee of the Whole meeting. “Keep the Reed family in your prayers,” Brown said. “We just had another senseless killing of a teenager, innocent bystander in a home. A bullet went through the house and it was fatal.” Brown’s use of the word “another” in this case likely refers to the fatal shooting of Ra’niya Steward , a 13-year-old from Alton who died from injuries sustained in a shooting in February of 2024. Brown was among several community members who helped organize a candlelight vigil in support of Steward and her family, with more details available in this story on Riverbender.com . Brown also recently commended the Alton Police Department

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WOOD RIVER — An Alton couple - George and Donna Julian - died Thursday morning, July 3, 2025, when their vehicle was struck by a driver fleeing police at the intersection of Illinois Route 143 and Illinois Route 3 in Wood River. The fleeing vehicle collided with the Julians’ car, which was traveling northbound on Illinois Route 3. The impact forced both vehicles into a ravine on the northwest side of the intersection, and the Julians' vehicle caught fire, resulting in the deaths of both occupants. George "Randy" R. Julian, 66, had been a longtime resident of Alton and worked as an operator for the Collinsville Water Department for more than 35 years before retiring in 2021. He was also self-employed at Tri County Lab, where he helped make dentures. Randy was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 520. He enjoyed dirt bike racing at Splinter Creek, gardening, raising tropical fish, and spending time with his family, especially watching his grandsons

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WOOD RIVER — The Madison County Health Department confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in mosquito batches collected locally on July 3, 2025, health officials announced Monday, July 7, 2025. West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, which becomes infected by feeding on infected birds. According to the Madison County Health Department, about 80% of people infected with the virus do not exhibit symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches lasting from several days to a few weeks. In rare instances, the virus can cause severe illness such as meningitis, encephalitis or death. Individuals over the age of 50 are at increased risk for serious complications. To reduce the risk of infection, the health department recommends several preventive measures. Residents are advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity times, particularly between dusk and dawn. Wearing protective

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ALTON – In response to our nation’s mental health crisis, as well as the need for mental health resources in the Riverbend region, OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center – Psychological Services will offer FREE mental health first aid training to interested individuals. This groundbreaking skills-based training session will give participants the tools to identify, understand and respond to someone who might be struggling with a mental health or substance use challenge — and connect them with appropriate support and resources when necessary. The Mental Health First Aid training course will be held on Friday, July 25, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at in the 3rd floor Psychological Services Group Training Room at OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center (1 St. Anthony’s Way, Alton, IL, 62202). Lunch will be provided during this all-day training course. Space is limited for this FREE training session and registration is required – online registration

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BELLEVILLE – Illinois American Water is increasing the income threshold for customers to receive assistance through its Income-Based Discount Program, beginning July 1, 2025. The program aims to support more customers paying their monthly water and/or wastewater bills. “The expansion of the Illinois American Water Income-Based Discount Program will help our residential customers who need financial help the most,” said Rebecca Losli, president, Illinois American Water. “Our goal is to make water and wastewater service affordable to our customers while continuing to make strategic investments in our water and wastewater infrastructure.” Illinois American Water has partnered with Dollar Energy since August 2023 on the income-based discount program. As part of the program, approved water and/or wastewater customers receive a monthly discount on their water and/or wastewater bill. Starting July 1, 2025, the Income-Based Discount Program eligibility

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS — A 33-year-old man was critically injured after being struck by a vehicle late Saturday night, July 5, 2025, in Fairview Heights, police said. Officers from the Fairview Heights Police Department responded at approximately 11:37 p.m. July 5, 2025, to the intersection of St. Clair Avenue and 3rd Avenue following reports of a vehicle-pedestrian crash. Upon arrival, emergency personnel found the man unresponsive in the roadway. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital where he remains in critical condition, according to police. The driver of the vehicle stayed at the scene and cooperated fully with the investigation. Authorities said there was no indication the driver was impaired. Preliminary evidence suggests the pedestrian was crossing outside of a designated crosswalk and against the traffic signal at the time of the crash. The Fairview Heights Police Department continues to investigate the incident. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the

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EDWARDSVILLE — The Edwardsville Police Department announced Monday, July 7, 2025, that it is collaborating with the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police, and more than 200 law enforcement agencies statewide to reduce speeding throughout July. Beginning July 8, 2025, and continuing through July 31, 2025, drivers in Edwardsville can expect increased patrols focused on enforcing posted speed limits and addressing other traffic violations. The initiative aims to address the risks associated with speeding, which can impair a driver’s ability to safely navigate around other vehicles, hazardous objects, or unexpected road curves. This enforcement campaign is part of the "Speeding Catches Up With You" effort, supported by federal highway safety funds administered by IDOT. It also aligns with IDOT’s broader "It’s Not a Game" media campaign aimed at promoting safer driving behaviors. Officials emphasized that the stepped-up patrols are intended

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ST. CLAIR COUNTY — The body of Demontray M. Collins, 25, was discovered Friday, July 4, 2025, morning in a lake at Frank Holten State Park near East St. Louis, authorities said. St. Clair County Coroner Calvin Dye Sr. identified Collins as the man found by kayakers at approximately 8:33 a.m. on Friday. The coroner pronounced Collins deceased at the scene at 9:41 a.m. that morning. Collins’ last known address was in the 1800 block of Central Avenue in East St. Louis. The cause of death has not been determined. Illinois State Police Troop 8, based in Collinsville, responded after two men kayaking in the lake observed the body and called 911. St. Clair County Special Emergency Services retrieved the body from the water. The incident occurred in the 7300 block of Lake Drive at Frank Holten State Park.

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CAHOKIA HEIGHTS - The Jarrot Mansion State Historic Site, the oldest brick building in Illinois, will open to the public on July 12, 2025, to offer a rare opportunity to tour the historic home and to celebrate the state’s French heritage in honor of Bastille Day. The mansion, typically accessible only by request, will welcome visitors from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Located near the intersection of Illinois 3 and Illinois 157 in Cahokia, the site is managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources with support from volunteers of the Jarrot Mansion Project. The nearby Cahokia Courthouse State Historic Site will also be open to visitors that day. Built in 1810 by Nicholas Jarrot, a refugee from the French Revolution, the mansion stands as a significant example of Federal-style architecture. Jarrot, who became a prominent landowner and businessman in the formerly French region of Illinois as the area approached statehood, constructed the imposing brick home in contrast

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COLLINSVILLE - Collinsville Faith in Action will host their annual dinner auction to raise money so they can continue to support senior citizens. On July 11, 2025, community members are invited to Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville for this year’s dinner auction, themed “Country Fair Flair.” Attendees can enjoy a full dinner and silent auction. The organization is still looking for donations and sponsorships to support their work. “I always say the fundraising is critical, but so is the friend-raising,” said executive director Lisa Brennan. “We’re very much looking forward to watching the whole community pull together and really step up to make this a great and fun event.” Brennan explained that the dinner auction supports Collinsville Faith in Action, which serves Collinsville, Granite City, Troy, Fairmont City, Caseyville and Maryville. As a national organization, Faith in Action teams up with local churches, schools

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — A motor vehicle crash on Lilac Avenue near Duberry Lane resulted in the death of a 70-year-old man Friday night, July 4, 2025, St. Louis County police said. At approximately 10 p.m. on July 4, officers from the North County Precinct responded to a crash involving two vehicles. St. Louis County Police said preliminary investigation indicated that a Toyota Camry, traveling northbound on Lilac Avenue, crossed into the southbound lanes and collided with a southbound Nissan Rogue. The driver of the Toyota Camry, identified as Corbett Scott of the 1000 block of Farmview Drive in St. Louis, was transported to a hospital for lifesaving treatment but later died from his injuries. The driver of the Nissan Rogue was also taken to a hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The St. Louis County Police Department’s Bureau of Crimes Against Persons and Accident Reconstruction detectives are actively investigating the crash. Additional

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BUNKER HILL - Karrington and Zachary Bostick of Bunker Hill are raising funds to obtain a Diabetic Alert Dog (DAD) for their youngest son, Declan, who was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in January 2024. The fundraiser aims to cover the extensive and costly training required for the service dog, as well as travel expenses for trips approximately six hours away. Declan is hypo- and hyper-unaware, meaning he does not recognize when his blood sugar levels are dangerously low or high. According to Karrington Bostick, a DAD could alert the family 15 to 30 minutes before Declan’s Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) detects a problem, potentially preventing emergencies. “Those minutes could be the difference between a normal day and an emergency,” she said. Bostick shared an example to illustrate the potential benefit of a DAD: “He had been dosed for a snack and then we had an impromptu dance party in the living room. His CGM told me that he was at 85, which is a perfectly

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