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ALTON – Riverbend Head Start & Family Services (RHSFS) is teaming up with the Illinois Head Start Association (IHSA) in their #SaveHeadStart advocacy campaign. Head Start locations throughout the state will take part in the “For the People, By the People” photo series, which will highlight the people and programs that keep Head Start running in our communities. The series will roll out in the coming weeks on social media and the web. The #SaveHeadStart series and other advocacy efforts are in response to an April 16th article in the Washington Post indicating that the White House’s 2026 budget proposal would eliminate funding for Head Start altogether. “With so much uncertainty around future funding for Head Start, our nation has a choice to make in continuing to nurture a promise made 60 years ago to our youngest and most vulnerable learners,” says Gene Howell, President & CEO. “In addition to advocating locally for our children, now is

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EDWARDSVILLE – To celebrate Arbor Day, the Edwardsville Environmental Commission is encouraging the community to brag about its most notable and long-standing trees, and to consider nominating them for inclusion in the commission’s Heritage Tree Program. The City’s Heritage Tree Program was officially launched in September 2024 as a way to encourage the conservation of established trees, recognize some distinctive examples and to educate about the essential role trees play in a community. Since that time, about 15 trees have been added to the City’s heritage tree register. Commission members want to see that number grow. Anyone who knows of a tree in Edwardsville that might qualify for heritage tree status is encouraged to submit a nomination for the program, which began through the efforts of Ward 1 Alderman Chris Farrar. To be eligible for consideration, trees must meet one or more criteria in the following categories: SIZE: The tree is in the top 10%

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JERSEYVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that intermittent lane closures will take place on Illinois 16 at the intersection of Otterville Road beginning, weather permitting, Monday, April 28, for the construction of a turn lane. Flaggers will maintain one lane of traffic throughout the project. The project is expected to be completed by September. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, be alert for changing conditions, obey all construction signage, and refrain from using mobile devices while approaching and traveling through the work zone. 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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GILLESPIE – Gillespie Community will host a Community Blood Drive with ImpactLife, the provider of blood components for local hospitals. The blood drive will be from 1 to 6 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025 at 900 Broadway, inside Gillespie Methodist Church Gym. What: Gillespie Community Blood Drive When: Monday, May 12th, 1-6 p.m. Where: Gillespie Methodist Church Gym, 900 Broadway, Gillespie, Ill. Appointments: To donate, please contact Brenda Lowe at (217) 710-1336 or visit www.bloodcenter.org and use code 60020 to locate the drive. Appointments are requested. You may also call ImpactLife to schedule at 800-747-5401. 2801 South 10th Street | Springfield, Illinois | (217) 753-1530 Donor Eligibility Criteria: Potential donors must be at least 17 years of age (16 with parental permission form available through www.bloodcenter.org ) and weigh more than 110 pounds. A photo I.D. is required to donate. For questions about eligibility, please call ImpactLife at (800) 747-5401

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NORMAL - At approximately 7:40 p.m. Sunday, April 27, 2025, Illinois State University police received reports of shots fired during a registered student organization event at the Bone Student Center on campus. The shots were fired during a fight in the entryway outside of the event. There is one reported victim, who is not an Illinois State student. This incident remains an active investigation with police searching for the suspect, who is described as a slender Black male, approximately 5 ft. 10 in., with black, afro-style hair, wearing all black clothing. He was last seen running south from the Bone Student Center. Eyewitness information should be emailed to ISUPolice@ilstu.edu . Classes will be held on Monday, April 28, 2025. Bone Student Center will remain closed, with all events at Bone Student Center canceled on Monday. Illinois State University Police Department continues to investigate with assistance from Normal Police Department, Bloomington Police Department,

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Did you know that a well-prepared garden can increase crop yields by up to 50% compared to one left unattended? Preparing your garden properly is more than just planting seeds—it’s about creating the ideal environment for your crops to thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, understanding the steps to ready your garden for summer crops can transform your gardening experience and harvest. Assessing and Planning Your Garden Space Before digging in, take a moment to evaluate your garden’s current condition. This assessment lays the groundwork for successful planting. Soil Quality and Health The foundation of any productive garden is healthy soil. Conduct a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient content. Most summer crops prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 7.0). Testing kits are widely available at garden centers or through local agricultural extension services. For example, a study by the University of California found

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April 28 has long been a day marked by remarkable events that have shaped the course of history across the globe. Turning back the clock, April 28 has been notable for many transformative events. In 1789, the mutiny on the HMS Bounty unfolded, becoming one of the most famous naval mutinies in history. Led by Fletcher Christian, the crew rebelled against Captain William Bligh, challenging the harsh conditions and authoritarian command. This dramatic episode has since inspired countless books, films, and discussions about leadership, authority, and survival in extreme circumstances. On a scientific note, April 28, 1930, witnessed the first public demonstration of the jet engine by Sir Frank Whittle in the United Kingdom. This innovation revolutionized air travel, enabling faster, more efficient flights that transformed global connectivity. The jet engine paved the way for the modern aviation industry, shrinking the world and facilitating cultural exchange, commerce, and tourism

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Did you know that approximately 75% of the world’s leading food crops rely at least in part on animal pollinators? This staggering statistic highlights a fundamental yet often overlooked truth: pollinators are indispensable allies in our global food system. Without their tireless work, the diversity, quality, and quantity of the food we consume daily would be dramatically diminished. Understanding Pollinators and Their Function Pollinators are animals that transfer pollen from the male structures of flowers to the female structures, facilitating plant fertilization and reproduction. While bees are the most recognized pollinators, a wide array of species contribute to this vital process, including butterflies, moths, birds, bats, beetles, and even some small mammals. Pollination is essential for the reproductive cycle of many crops, enabling fruit and seed production. This biological service directly affects yields and the genetic diversity of plants, which in turn impacts foo

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Did you know that an estimated 8 million tons of plastic enter the world’s oceans every year, much of it originating from urban areas where litter accumulates unchecked? While this statistic highlights a global challenge, the power to effect change often starts at the community level. Organizing a neighborhood cleanup event is a practical and impactful way to enhance local environments, foster community spirit, and contribute to broader environmental health. However, success requires more than just picking up trash; it demands thoughtful planning, coordination, and engagement. Defining the Purpose and Scope Before rallying volunteers, it is essential to clarify the objectives of the cleanup event. Are you targeting a specific problem area, such as a park, riverbank, or streetscape? Or is the goal broader, aiming to increase community awareness about litter and waste management? For example, a neighborhood near a busy highway might focus on roadside debris, while a community

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TROY — Six individuals were arrested during a two-day anti-human trafficking operation conducted by the Illinois State Police (ISP) in the Troy area of Madison County on April 23 and 24, 2025. The operation targeted individuals attempting to engage in sex acts with minors. The arrests were made by the ISP Division of Criminal Investigation Trafficking Enforcement Bureau in collaboration with ISP special agents, officers from Troops 8, Zone 6, ISP SWAT, ISP Analysts, MEGSI, Intelligence Support Unit, and the Troy Police Department. The Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office also supported the effort. Those arrested and charged include Brian P. Tilson, 43, of Highland; Justin A. Kuehnel, 41, of Glen Carbon; Kyle T. Altevogt, 30, of Panama; Gregory L. Robinson, 34, of Fairview Heights; James A. Walker, 40, of Effingham; and Ulises Mendieta-Galindo, 36, of O’Fallon. All six face multiple felony charges, including indecent solicitation of a child, traveling to

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SPRINGFIELD – Ratish Kumar, a biomedical engineer at Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach, accepted the TechNation 2025 Humanitarian of the Year award at the annual MDExpo in Temecula, California, on Wednesday, April 16. Kumar was selected for the honor from nominees throughout the United States in the fields of bioengineering, administration and education. Kumar has been the biomedical engineer at Mission Outreach since 2017. Kumar’s role at Mission Outreach is to prepare equipment for international shipment to partners in low-resource areas around the world and provide technical support, ensuring the items last as long as possible for safe patient care. “Ratish’s work to provide high-quality biomedical equipment and technology sets Mission Outreach apart from other medical surplus recovery organizations,” said Erica Smith, executive director of Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach. “Every piece of equipment we send has been tested and is prepared according

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ALTON – OSF HealthCare Rehabilitation Services in Alton will be holding its monthly lymphedema education meeting on Thursday, May 1. Riverbend region residents are invited to join the OSF Lymphedema Therapy Team for this free educational session about lymphedema and meet other people with lymphedema. The May lymphedema education meeting will be held: Thursday, May 1, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. OSF HealthCare Rehabilitation Services 228 Alton Square Mall, Alton, IL Enter the Rehab office from the upper mall parking lot, facing Alby Street, under the "OSF HEALTHCARE" sign Interested individuals should direct questions or requests for additional information to OSF Rehabilitation Services at (618) 463-5171. Lymphedema refers to tissue swelling caused by an accumulation of fluid that is usually drained by the body's lymphatic system. Some lymphedema facts include: It most commonly affects the arms or legs, but it can also occur in the face, neck, or trunk.

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MARYVILLE, Ill. — The Second Annual Maryville MusicFest will take place from 1 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025, featuring 10 local bands performing across two stages. The event aims to raise funds for a new permanent entertainment pavilion and major upgrades at the park, according to incoming Mayor Wayne White. Tickets for the all-day festival are $20, with free admission for children 12 and under. Organizers ask attendees to bring chairs and blankets to enjoy the music and note that no outside food or drinks are allowed. Food trucks, beer, and other beverages will be available on site. Additional parking will be offered at Maryville Grade School, 6900 W. Main, with a shuttle bus transporting attendees between the school and the park. White, who will serve as emcee throughout the event, said 100 percent of the proceeds will go toward building the pavilion, which he described as a key part of transforming Firemen’s Park into a “true summer square” with live

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ALTON — On Sunday, April 27, at approximately 9 a.m., the Alton Police Department responded to a residence in the 2100 block of Mulberry Street following a report that a woman had been battered by her boyfriend and was being held against her will. Upon arrival, officers found no one answering the door. They continued attempts to communicate with the occupants while requesting tactical assistance from the Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System (ILEAS) due to the potential domestic hostage situation. At about 12:15 p.m., just before ILEAS arrived, the woman exited the residence and was transported to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Shortly thereafter, the male suspect voluntarily surrendered to police without incident. He was taken into custody and transported to the Alton Police Department Jail pending criminal charges. The incident remains under investigation by the Alton Police Department. The department expressed gratitude to the Madison County Sheriff’s

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April 26 and 27 have marked a variety of significant moments throughout history, spanning scientific breakthroughs, political shifts, and cultural milestones. Arguably the most impactful event associated with April 26 occurred in 1986, when the Chernobyl nuclear disaster unfolded in the Soviet Union. This catastrophic nuclear accident at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant near Pripyat, Ukraine, remains one of the worst nuclear disasters in history. On April 26, the reactor number four exploded during a safety test, releasing massive amounts of radioactive material into the atmosphere. The event had immediate and long-term consequences, including widespread evacuation, health crises, environmental contamination, and a reevaluation of nuclear safety protocols worldwide. The disaster underscored the risks associated with nuclear energy and triggered international efforts to improve nuclear plant safety. Going back several centuries, on April 26, 1607, the English ship Godspeed set sai

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SPRINGFIELD — As the U.S. Department of Education announced it will resume collections of defaulted federal student loans in its portfolio, Attorney General Kwame Raoul urges student loan borrowers to avoid collections by taking the necessary steps to avoid or get out of default. Raoul is also warning student loan borrowers to be on the lookout for scam calls, emails and letters from fraudsters pretending to be loan servicers or promising debt relief. “The last thing any student borrower needs when attempting to address their student loan debt is to become a victim of student loan repayment scams,” Raoul said. “Reviewing key information, including checking your servicer’s contact information, website log-in credentials and the status of your loan, is a first step to protecting yourself from scammers. If your loan is in default or you are at risk of defaulting on your loan, contact your student loan servicer to discuss your options.” Getting

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SPRINGFIELD - Illinois students struggling to obtain traditional college loans have a new option to borrow money for in-state higher education costs thanks to a new program Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs unveiled today. The new Funding U Illinois No-Cosigner Loan is part of the Student Empowerment Fund , Treasurer Frerichs’ plan to provide private college loans for Illinois residents at lower rates than private competitors and help bridge the gap with federal financial aid. The No-Cosigner Loan joins ISL Education Lending’s Illinois Partnership Loan and Illinois College Family Loan options. “The costs of college continue to rise, and the chaos in Washington is hurting, not helping our families,” Frerichs said at a Thursday news conference at 555 W. Monroe. “Financial aid often doesn’t cover all of the costs, and we are offering a solution to help students bridge the gap.” Funding U is working with the State Treasurer’s Office

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MASCOUTAH – MidAmerica St. Louis Airport today announced a new record of more than 40,000 passengers served during the month of March, continuing an overall trend of positive passenger growth. The airport saw a 47% increase in passenger traffic compared to March 2024, when 27,000 passengers traveled through its terminal. This noteworthy milestone in passenger growth also marks a 23% increase from March 2022, which held the previous record of more than 32,000 passengers. “The sustained growth at MidAmerica Airport is very exciting and it’s due to numerous factors,” said St. Clair County Chairman Mark Kern. “Passengers can count on easy access from Interstate 64, hassle-free parking and efficient airport and security operations, and they appreciate Allegiant’s strong route network serving several popular vacation spots at affordable rates.” MidAmerica St. Louis Airport offers nonstop flights year-round or on a seasonal basis to a host of popular

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) and Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) announced today that Summer EBT benefits will be issued to families for the 2024-25 school year starting in May. The Summer EBT program aims to provide essential support to economically disadvantaged children during the summer months, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals. IDHS and ISBE are working together to inform families facing food insecurity about the eligibility process for Summer EBT this year. Each eligible school-aged child will receive a one-time benefit of $120. "No child should ever have to wonder where their next meal will come from — not during the school year and not during the summer. With the Summer EBT program, Illinois is ensuring our most vulnerable children have access to the nutritious meals they need to thrive," said Governor JB Pritzker. "After becoming one of the first states to successfully launch this assistance program last summer,

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EDWARDSVILLE – Nominations are open for the City’s long-running Green Thumb Awards program, which honors some of the most eye-catching gardens, landscaped areas and floral settings in Edwardsville. Have you spotted a beautiful yard that dazzles with color and contrast? Is there a flower-filled patch, a gorgeous garden or an artfully landscaped spot at a residence, business or other site that deserves recognition? The Green Thumb Awards are an easy way to honor the time and effort that has gone into projects that help beautify the City. Nomination categories include residential, neighborhood (or block or subdivision), commercial and civic settings. Self-nominations are welcome and encouraged. Green Thumb recipients receive an award sign to place on site for about a month to publicly tout the recognition. Award eligibility guidelines, an online nomination form and photos and lists of recent winners are available at: www.cityofedwardsville.com/greenthumb The deadline

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