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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, released the following statement following reports of termination of the Department of Homeland Security Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman, and Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman. “Congress established the Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL) Officer position at the Department of Homeland to ensure that civil rights and civil liberties were integrated into every aspect of the Department’s work. As we noted in a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Congress also required that the Officer have sufficient resources and personnel to accomplish this vital mission. “The President’s Executive Order requires federal agencies to cut costs

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Congresswoman Young Kim (CA-40), Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) and Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) introduced the Improving VA Training for Military Sexual Trauma Claims Act. This bipartisan legislation would improve training for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees who process and decide military sexual trauma (MST) claims and help to reduce red tape for MST survivors who file for disability benefits. “Too many of our nation’s service members come home with invisible wounds. We can’t allow our disability claims process to deepen them,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation to ensure that the VA claims process does not retraumatize survivors of military sexual trauma. Together, we can reduce red tape and enact long-overdue reform to better support our veterans.” “Veterans filing MST claims already face unthinkable

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JERSEYVILLE - Wok Restaurant, a staple in the Jerseyville community for nearly three decades, has announced it will close its doors for good on April 25, 2025. The decision comes as the owner, a member of the Hong family, prepares to retire and embark on a new chapter in life. The restaurant, known for its Asian cuisine, has been a beloved gathering place in Jerseyville for locals and visitors alike. In a heartfelt message to the community, the Hong family expressed their gratitude for the support they have received over the years. “To our loyal customers, dedicated staff, and the friends and neighbors who have been part of this journey—thank you,” the message read. Reflecting on their time in Jerseyville, the Hong family noted the pride and appreciation they feel for the memories and friendships formed throughout their years of service. The closure marks the end of an era for both the restaurant and its patrons, who have shared countless meals and moments within

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EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Office for Accessible Campus Community & Equitable Student Support (ACCESS) hailed the late disability rights activist Ed Roberts as a hero and pioneering leader. ACCESS also praised SIUE faculty, staff and students for their part in moving access rights forward during its 6th Annual Ed Roberts Champions of Accessibility Celebration and Awards on Monday, March 17, 2025. Roberts contracted polio that paralyzed him from the neck down and required him to use an iron lung or respirator to breathe, but it did not keep him from being the first wheelchair user to attend the University of California, Berkeley. The awards ceremony was the highlight of the program. “One of the ways that we recognize people on this campus who embody the spirit of Ed Roberts is through our Defender of Equity Awards,” said ACCESS Director Dominic Dorsey. “Many times, we talk about the disability rights movement as a social justice

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ALTON - Mayoral candidate and Third Ward Alderman Ray Strebel responded to a recently circulated recording involving property owner Zachariah Yinger, calling it a "political hit job" meant to distract voters from the real issue: who is actually taking action to clean up Alton. "This recording changes nothing," Strebel said. "It's a political stunt pushed by opponents who've been silent while I've done the hard work of cleaning up Alton." Strebel reiterated that he was contacted by Yinger and spoke with him as part of his effort to get troubled properties into better hands. "I'll take any call if it helps get bad actors out of Alton," Strebel said. "And I encourage anyone to actually listen to the recording — they'll hear someone focused on helping this city, not playing politics." Strebel was the first public official to call for the revocation of Yinger's business licenses and demand that Alton send a clear message that criminal behavior won't be tolerated. "My position has

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GODFREY - Godfrey First United Methodist Church will host their annual rummage sale to raise money for their missions. From 4–7 p.m. on Friday, April 4, and 8–11 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025, community members can stop by the church and shop the donated items. Located at 1100 Airport Road in Godfrey, Godfrey First United Methodist Church hosts this rummage sale every year to raise money for local organizations, including Oasis Women’s Center, Crisis Food Center and Dream Home Charities. “It’s clean, it’s neat, it’s reasonably priced,” said Carolyn, one of the organizers. “They turn the church into a department store, and when I say department store, I mean every area has its own space.” On Friday, shoppers donate $2 to access the church. Carolyn and Jean, who spearheaded the rummage sale this year along with Shirley, explained that they have a wide variety of items, from pots and pans to glassware to yard decorations

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CENTRALIA — Kayla Pearson has organized a fundraiser to support McGuire's, a bar-grill located at 730 James Street in Centralia, which was recently devastated by a fire. The fundraiser aims to assist the establishment as it embarks on the challenging journey of rebuilding after the significant loss. The fire left the interior of McGuire's in ruins, marking a tragic turn for a venue that has been a cherished part of the community for generations. Originally opened as Gheradini’s and later known as Jono’s, McGuire's has operated under its current name for the past 12 years, managed by the Thompson family and Erika Ryan. The establishment has long served as a gathering place where patrons have formed connections, celebrating life's milestones and creating lasting memories. The impact of the fire extends beyond the physical damage; McGuire's did not have loss of income insurance, leaving both the business and its dedicated staff without financial support. As a result,

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ST. LOUIS (March 25, 2025) — An energetic pair of polar bear twins will be on view to the public at the Saint Louis Zoo for the first time today (March 25.) Two-year-old twins, Kallu (Kah-LOO) and Kallik (Kah-LEEK) , will now have regular access to the Zoo’s 40,000-squre-foot polar bear habitat, McDonnell Polar Bear Point. Guests can stop by for a chance to see the playful duo during regular Zoo hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily this spring. The twins were born at Toledo Zoo & Aquarium in November 2022 and arrived at the Saint Louis Zoo earlier this month. The Zoo’s previous resident polar bear, Kali, moved simultaneously to Toledo Zoo where he will be paired with a female based on a breeding recommendation. The twin brothers are known for their close bond. They love to play and spar together during the day and often sleep side-by-side at night. In Toledo, the twins enjoyed diving into their habitat pool, training with special treats like canned tuna and seaweed

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Did you know that the average American consumes around 150 pounds of fruits and vegetables each year? While that may sound impressive, the true delight comes from indulging in seasonal produce, particularly during spring when a vibrant array of flavors and colors bursts forth. Eating seasonally not only enhances the taste of our dishes but also supports local farmers and promotes sustainable practices. So, what fresh ingredients should you be reaching for in your kitchen this spring? Let’s explore some delicious recipes that celebrate the season’s bounty. A Garden of Greens: Asparagus and Peas Asparagus, often regarded as a culinary treasure, is at its peak during spring. This tender, bright green vegetable pairs beautifully with sweet peas, creating a vibrant dish that captures the essence of the season. Recipe: Asparagus and Pea Risotto Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen, if necessary

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March 25 has been a significant date throughout history, marked by transformative events that shaped nations, cultures, and societies. 1911: The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire One of the most tragic industrial disasters in American history occurred on March 25, 1911, when a fire broke out at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in New York City. The blaze claimed the lives of 146 workers, most of whom were young immigrant women. The tragedy exposed the dangerous working conditions prevalent in factories at the time and led to significant changes in labor laws and workplace safety regulations. The aftermath of this disaster sparked widespread outrage and activism, culminating in reforms that improved working conditions for many. 1965: The Selma to Montgomery March Ends In a pivotal moment for the American civil rights movement, Martin Luther King Jr. and thousands of activists completed the Selma to Montgomery march on March 25, 1965. This march was a response to the systemic

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education voted to dismiss 16 employees after an hour of public comments protesting the decision. During the regular meeting of the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education on Monday, March 24, 2025, the board voted 4–3 to approve a resolution authorizing the dismissal and non-reemployment of certified non-tenured probationary employees. “Decisions like this are not taken lightly, and we above everyone else understand the impact that this has on the teachers that we’ve invested in both as people and professionals, nor does it reflect the value that they have in our school communities,” said Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton. Over 100 students, parents, teachers and community members attended the meeting to protest the proposed dismissals. Attendees spoke for the full 60 minutes allotted for the public comments portion of the meeting. Many of them

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ST. LOUIS - Dr. Kristen M. Jacobs, owner and founder of Ooh La La Spa, Anti-Aging & Wellness and the author of “Live Life Beautifully (With a Little Help),” recently presented at the Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress (AMWC) in Miami, Florida. She was chosen to speak because of her expertise and experience in the industry, educating other industry leaders on managing patient memberships and focusing on healthy aging. Dr. Jacobs, an aesthetic physician since 2008, lectured to physicians of all specialties, advanced providers, clinical staff and medical students at AMWC. As the owner of Ooh La La Spa, Anti-Aging & Wellness, Dr. Jacobs has a wealth of experience to offer doctors on challenges medical school doesn’t prepare you for. “While physicians have undergone intense medical training, some of us need a little help getting off the ground when it comes to business practices,” Dr. Jacobs said. “I was extremely proud to b

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ALTON – The City of Alton is set to move forward with an agreement for a new fitness court with funding from Alton Township. As previously reported on Riverbender.com , a resolution on Monday’s Committee of the Whole agenda concerned an intergovernmental agreement between the city and Alton Township. Under the agreement, Alton Township would provide $100,000 to the City of Alton for the construction of a new fitness court. More exact details about the fitness court, including its proposed location, are not included in the agreement – but more details will be announced later this week. Alderwoman Carolyn MacAfee said members of the public have been asking several questions about the project and, in some cases, spreading misinformation about its funding. She asked that a presentation be given at Wednesday’s City Council meeting to give residents more detailed information about the fitness court. MacAfee also said the city’s Parks Board has given the

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TROY - Jason Zepeda Maclin believes in the young people he teaches, and his community believes in him. Maclin, a fourth grade teacher at Silver Creek Elementary in the Triad School District, is competing for recognition as America’s Favorite Teacher. He is currently in first place for the group division, and he hopes to eventually take the title and share his story with people from Troy and beyond. “It’s been really amazing, the support from my district and from members of the community and friends that I’ve made throughout my career,” he said. Maclin didn’t always aspire to be a teacher. He was planning to become a nurse when he fell in love with education at McKendree University. He got his emphasis in science and joined the Triad School District, where he himself had grown up. Over the past ten years in Maclin’s teaching career, there have been several powerful experiences, but one student especially stands out to him. This “amazing”

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ROXANA — The Roxana Shells Athletic Department celebrated the achievements of senior bowler Caleb Wonders, who concluded his season with an impressive average of 210. Wonders was recognized by the Southern Illinois High School Bowling Conference for his outstanding performance, finishing in the top five for both high game and high series. Wonders recorded a high game of 279 and a high series of 771 during the season, showcasing his skill and dedication to the sport. The recognition from the conference highlights his contributions to the Roxana bowling team and marks a significant accomplishment in his high school athletic career. Wonders is a Midwest Members Credit Union Male Athlete of the Month for the Shells. The announcement comes after the Shells wrap up their bowling season, with team members reflecting on their individual and collective achievements.

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GODFREY - Authorities were seeking the public's assistance in locating a missing juvenile from the Godfrey area, however, Madison County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Marcos Pulido reported at 3:57 p.m. on Monday, March 24, 2025, that the boy had been found "safe." Fourteen-year-old Cole Moore was last seen Sunday night, March 23, 2025, in the River Aire Subdivision in Godfrey. Cole was described as a white male, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall, with brown hair and hazel eyes. He has a thin build and was last observed wearing a gray Puma hooded sweatshirt, gray sweatpants, and white Nike shoes while riding an electric scooter.

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GRAFTON - The Great Rivers Choral Society invites the community to its Dueling Pianos Fundraiser. On Saturday, April 5, 2025, community members can come out to The Vineyards at 21028 Eckert Orchard Road in Grafton for a night of music, basket raffles, a nacho bar and more. Tickets cost $25 and all proceeds go back to the Great Rivers Choral Society (GRCS) and their mission to share music with the Riverbend. “It’s just a very fun evening. This is the fourth year we’ve been doing it,” said President Pat Stewart. “We’re going on our 25th season, which is very unheard of, something definitely that we're very proud of.” During the fundraiser, GRCS will offer a cash bar and a 50/50 drawing. The dueling pianists will accept tips and encourage sing-alongs. The choir will also perform. You can purchase tickets online or call 618-798-1492 for more information. Stewart expects the event to be “very fun.” She noted that this

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JERSEYVILLE – Jersey Community Middle School (JCMS) is proud to announce their latest lists of Honor and High Honor Roll students: High Honor Roll 7th Grade Trey N. Alich Wade R. Ball Charlie M. Charlton-Stierley Sam A. Coffman Emersyn J. Cole Lillie M. Cornelius Kaylee M. Cunningham Kyle A. Darr Kadence Dobson Cayden L. Dodson Henry D. Dohrn Ayden S. Droege Logan T. Dunham Stella M. Egelhoff Addison J. Fessler James D. Ford Charles R. Friedel Davis J. Frost Jayden L. Fry Olivia D. Funk Charlieann Gibson Cadence M. Goodey Reid K. Graham Bentley W. Grasle Maci E. Gray Fallin M. Green Emmitt M. Grizzle Ruiz Aubrey A. Hargrave Joshua G. Hartley Sophia M. Herter Harper L. Hill Charlotte F. Hinkson Brody A. Hoyt Austin Huang Harmony M. Jantzen Blake J. Jones Paige M. Jones Katelyn C. Kadell Cullan J. Kinser Kiyah B. Knoche Grace E. Latempt Bennett L.

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ALTON - Stephanie Elliott wants what’s best for the 6th Ward. In a recent conversation on “Our Daily Show!” with CJ Nasello , Elliott, who currently serves as Alton’s 6th Ward alderwoman, shared her vision for the ward and the city. She believes the 6th Ward is overdue for development and maintenance, and she wants to see the city come together to serve the public. “We’re all servants and we're all supposed to be serving to try to make this a better place and community,” she said, adding, “It’s past time for the 6th Ward. It’s our turn now.” Before taking on her role as alderwoman, Elliott served as the City of Alton’s comptroller for over ten years. The previous 6th Ward alderman encouraged her to run for the position and helped her through her campaign. She is now hoping to serve a final four-year term. Elliott collaborates with her husband to operate Stephanie’s Place , a nonprofit

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EDWARDSVILLE - Riley Nelson, a senior pitcher for the Edwardsville High softball team, is off to a tremendous start in the 2025 campaign, pitching six innings total, and has yet to allow a run, as the Tigers have won their first two games, March 18, 2025, over Freeburg 12-0, and Mar. 21 over Breese Central 19-2. In the first two games of the season, not only has Nelson yet to allow a run in eight innings of work in the circle, she's also allowed only three hits, all singles, while not walking anyone and striking out 14. She's also three-for-six at the plate, with two home runs, hit against Central, and four RBIs. It's been a great start to the season for her, and her postgame interview, she felt great, and credited her teammates. "Amazing," Nelson said. "My team had my back the whole, entire time, and our bats were actually on fire." That they have, as the Tigers have scored a total of 31 runs in their first two games, hitting four home runs as a team against the Cougars, their

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