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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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Did you know that simply jotting down what you’re grateful for can lead to a significant increase in your emotional well-being? Research indicates that practicing gratitude can enhance your mood, improve relationships, and may even contribute to better physical health. Yet, despite its profound benefits, many people overlook the transformative practice of gratitude journaling. What if you could harness a powerful tool that requires only a few minutes of your day to cultivate positivity and resilience? This article explores the compelling reasons to embrace daily gratitude journaling and offers practical tips to get started. Understanding Gratitude Journaling Gratitude journaling involves regularly writing down things for which you are thankful. This practice can take many forms—some might list three things each day, while others may opt for more elaborate reflections. The essence, however, remains the same: focusing on the positive aspects of life, no matter how small.

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April 9th has witnessed numerous significant events throughout history, spanning a variety of categories including politics, science, and culture. On this day in 1865, General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, marking the effective end of the American Civil War. This pivotal moment in American history not only reshaped the nation but also inspired countless works of literature, music, and film that continue to explore themes of conflict, reconciliation, and the quest for social justice. Fast-forwarding to the modern era, April 9th is also remembered for its technological advancements. In 2021, the first successful test flight of the Mars Helicopter, Ingenuity, was conducted. This groundbreaking achievement by NASA was a testament to human ingenuity and opened new avenues for aerial exploration of other planets. The successful flight demonstrated the feasibility of powered flight on Mars, paving the way for future mission

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EDWARDSVILLE - Students, alumni and community members are invited to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) for their “One Day, One SIUE” celebration. At 6 p.m. on April 24, 2025, the SIUE community will come together to mark the fourth annual giving campaign with a barbecue, live music and more. The event is completely free to attendees, though donations and sponsorships are encouraged, with all proceeds benefiting SIUE’s programs, scholarships and student organizations. “It’s basically a big celebration where we bring everybody together,” said Julie Babington, SIUE’s Senior Director of Annual Giving. “It just has a really special vibe.” The One Day, One SIUE celebration will take place on Stratton Quad on the SIUE campus. The fun starts at 6 p.m., with music by The Red Jackets Band beginning at 7 p.m. This year’s celebration will honor Curtis Francois, owner and president of World Wide Technology Raceway.

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ALTON — Two individuals are recovering after being shot on Homer Adams Parkway in Alton on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. The Alton Police Department received a call at 8:55 p.m. Tuesday from a female driver who reported she was en route to an area hospital following the shooting, which occurred near the intersection with College Avenue. Shortly thereafter, the two gunshot wound victims arrived at a local hospital. One of the victims was subsequently flown to a hospital in St. Louis for additional treatment. Both victims are currently reported to be in stable condition. Authorities have indicated that the shooting was not random, stating that the vehicle carrying the victims was specifically targeted. As a result of the incident, all northbound traffic lanes on Homer Adams Parkway from East Broadway in Alton were closed while investigators searched for physical evidence. Those lanes have since been reopened. The Alton Police Department is leading the investigation, with assistance fro

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WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) participated in a House Committee on Agriculture hearing where she criticized proposed cuts to SNAP benefits at a time when families are struggling with rising grocery costs. In Illinois’ 13th district, 55,000 households rely on SNAP. Like the rest of the country, the majority of those households are home to a child, a senior, or a disabled adult. The budget reconciliation framework passed by House Republicans includes a $230 billion cut to SNAP, which is predicted to increase food costs for a typical SNAP household of four by $175 a month . Furthermore, the Trump Administration’s universal tariffs are projected to cost American families upwards of $3,000 a year . Budzinski’s remarks as prepared for delivery can be found below: Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Craig, thank you for calling this hearing today. I think that this conversation is timely - what we are all hearing from our districts

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GODFREY – Two Godfrey residents were charged last week in related cases of mob action. One faces an additional felony for injuring the victim with a “bladed metal object.” Lamont R. Lastie, 30, and Memoree E. Thomas, 20, both of Godfrey, were each charged on April 2, 2025 with a Class 4 felony count of mob action. Lastie was additionally charged with a Class 3 felony count of aggravated battery. The day prior on April 1, 2025, Lastie and Thomas allegedly worked together in striking the victim about the head and body. Lastie reportedly also used “a bladed metal object” to cut the face of the victim, who sustained a laceration to the chin. According to a petition to deny Lastie’s pretrial release, a witness told authorities Lastie knocked the victim to the ground before “swinging at him with a small knife or bladed object,” causing the injury. The petition notes that at the time of the incident, Lastie was on probation from a 2023 case

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