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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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GRANITE CITY - Junior Antonio Dean aims to break the 50-second barrier in the 400-meter dash by the end of the season, building on a series of strong performances for the Warriors. Dean recently set a personal best of 50.71 seconds at the Collinsville Invite, where he placed seventh, and earlier won the Granite City Invite with a time of 50.92. Dean's ultimate goal is to break 49 seconds in the 400-meter run. He is a Stillwater Senior Living Male Athlete of the Month for the Warriors. “I just drive strong and work the last 200 meters in the 400-meter races,” Dean said of his approach to the event. In addition to the 400 meters, he competes in the open 4x400 relay and high jump, where he cleared 6 feet 2 inches most recently. His previous high jump best was 6 feet 1.5 inches, achieved when he won the O’Fallon Boys Relays. Dean is considered an integral member of the Warriors’ 4x400 relay team as they continue their season.

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GLEN CARBON — Mia Range secured first place in the high jump at the Gateway Metro Conference meet held recently at Althoff Catholic, marking a nearly unheard of fourth consecutive year winning the event. Range cleared a height of 5 feet 2 inches, continuing a strong season that includes a personal best of 5 feet 2.25 inches at the Edwardsville Invite on April 25, 2025. The senior athlete from McGivney has set clear goals for the remainder of her final high school season. “My goals are first or second at sectional, then past prelims at state," she said. "My main goal is to get 5-4 at state. I have worked hard this season.” In addition to her high jump accomplishments, Range has posted times of 13.74 seconds in the 100 meters and 28.93 seconds in the 200 meters this season. She is also a key member of the Griffins’ 4x200 relay team, which has performed well throughout the spring. Range’s achievements have earned her recognition as the Byron, Carlson, Petri

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EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Charter High School (CHS) provided pomp, circumstance and a chance for graduating seniors to revel, strut and shine during the school’s 2025 Commencement Ceremony. CHS graduated 28 seniors on Friday, May 9 in the middle of campus at the Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Center. The commencement speaker was Nate Williams, PhD, Associate Professor and Department Chair of Teaching and Learning in the SIUE School of Education Health and Human Behavior. The SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School is a school-of-choice for families in the East St. Louis School District 189. The mission of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Charter High School is to prepare students who are career- and college-ready upon graduation. To achieve this mission, the school and its staff will positively impact the educational and economic lives of East St. Louis, Illinois youth through individualized

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) and Congresswoman Young Kim (CA-40) sent a letter to Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins expressing their support for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to continue health research focused on women veterans. This week marks VA Research Week and celebrates the 100th anniversary of VA research. The Congresswomen write, “Women are the fastest growing segment of the veteran population. Today, over 2 million women veterans live in the United States, and they are expected to make up 18% of all veterans by 2040. However, women veterans face unique barriers in accessing care, especially in the areas of behavioral health, reproductive care, and tailored services for survivors of military sexual trauma (MST). “VA’s significant investments in research over the last several years have been crucial in improving our understanding of the unique barriers women veterans face. Initiatives such as the

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SPRINGFIEL D – Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that $400 million is available for local transportation projects, with the goal of enhancing mobility and quality of life in communities throughout the state. The deadline to apply is June 1. “Over the past six years, we’ve made bold, historic investments to strengthen transportation across Illinois, improving mobility and quality of life in every region,” said Gov. Pritzker. “This $400 million investment builds on that progress by supporting local projects that connect communities and helping Illinoisans get where they need to go safely and efficiently. I highly encourage local entities to apply for this funding and bring critical projects that improve the lives of Illinoisans in every corner of the state.” Successful projects will be chosen based on cost-effectiveness, feasibility and safety across multiple categories, including highways, bike and pedestrian

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) today reintroduced legislation to protect child workers from the dangers of exposure to tobacco plants, including nicotine poisoning. The Children Don’t Belong on Tobacco Farms Act amends the Fair Labor Standards Act to prohibit children under the age of 18 from working in tobacco fields and coming into direct contact with tobacco plants or dried tobacco leaves by deeming this type of work as oppressive child labor. “Kids as young as 12 can be recruited to work on tobacco farms where they are exposed to toxic tobacco plants containing nicotine and may experience common symptoms of nicotine poisoning like nausea, vomiting, headaches, and dizziness. Putting a stop to this disgraceful labor practice is simple and common sense,” Durbin said. “With the Children Don’t Belong on Tobacco Farms Act , Congress can finally act to protect these kids

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin and Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha, as part of a coalition of 20 attorneys general, announced today they will file two separate lawsuits against the Trump administration for attempting to illegally coerce their states into sweeping immigration enforcement by threatening to withhold billions in federal funding for emergency services and infrastructure. Raoul and the coalition will file a lawsuit against the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. Raoul, Bonta, Platkin, Neronha and Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown, along with the coalition, will file a second lawsuit against the Department of Transportation (DOT) and DOT Secretary Sean Duffy. Each agency has imposed sweeping new conditions that would require the states and state agencies to cooperate with federal

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EDWARDSVILLE – Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and Universidad Central del Ecuador (UCE) have formalized a strategic academic partnership aimed at expanding international collaboration and advancing global graduate education. The signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishes the foundation for a dual Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, enabling students to complete coursework at both institutions and earn degrees from each. The signing ceremony was marked by the participation of UCE’s Chancellor, Patricio Espinosa del Pozo, MD, and Denise Cobb, PhD, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, highlighting the mutual commitment at the highest levels of leadership. “This agreement represents a shared vision for academic excellence and global collaboration. Together with Universidad Central del Ecuador, we are opening pathways for students to gain international business competencies and cultural insight that will distinguish them

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