Riverbender 🕸

ST. LOUIS - Summer has arrived, bringing hot weather with it. What better way to cool off than by enjoying some delicious ice cream with friends, especially during National Ice Cream Month. Thanks to President Ronald Reagan’s love for ice cream, the United States has recognized National Ice Cream Month every July since 1984. Long before 1984 though, Americans have been celebrating events with ice cream. Since the late 1800s, ice cream socials have provided opportunities for communities to gather, oftentimes to promote a good cause. This July, host your own ice cream social to bring friends and family together. Spending time with others while enjoying a favorite treat is a great way to reconnect and build a sense of well-being. “Ice cream is one of those universally liked foods that is often associated with good memories and nostalgia,” said Maggie Nosic, nutrition educator and registered dietitian with St. Louis District Dairy Council. “Building a summer social

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VENICE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that the McKinley Bridge from Bremen Street in Venice to 9th Street in St. Louis, MO., will be fully closed, weather permitting, from 9 p.m. Friday, June 27, 2025, until 5 a.m. Monday, June 30, 2025, for bridge deck sealing. The bridge is expected to reopen by 5 a.m. Monday, June 30, 2025. Motorists must use an alternate route during this time. 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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Williamson County waterfowl hunting club shut down for illegal baiting Federal judge orders defendants to pay $71,500 BENTON – A district judge ordered a duck hunting club in Williamson County to shutter its doors for two years after the owner admitted to a federal charge for illegal baiting. Hugh Thomas Burns, Jr., 67, of Carbondale, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act by sale of wildlife in violation of federal law, as the sole owner of Burns Hunting Club, LLC. “Hunting and fishing are cherished traditions in Southern Illinois, and our office stands firmly behind sportsmen and women who enjoy those activities,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “But let’s be real: baiting a duck hunting landscape is like other forms of illegal poaching, which disadvantages honest hunters and violates federal law. The district court’s order to close this club demonstrates a commitment to protecting ethical and legal hunting

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SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois State Police (ISP), Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation (ISPHF), and family and friends unveiled the names of Trooper Corey Thompsen #7081 and Trooper Clay Carns #6512 on the ISP Memorial Park wall in Springfield during individual ceremonies on Friday. Both Trooper Thompsen and Trooper Carns were killed in the line of duty in 2024. “The names engraved on the ISP Memorial Park wall are not just letters in granite, but a reminder to honor all the brave ISP troopers who were so dedicated to public service, they laid down their lives for us,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “Their service and sacrifice are now forever memorialized on the wall and will never be forgotten.” “The Illinois State Police Memorial Park wall is etched with the names of those ISP troopers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the people of Illinois,” said ISPHF Executive Director Jarod Ingebrigtsen. “The wall is a stark

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SPRINGFIELD – The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed Illinois’ first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) of 2025 in an individual from Southern Illinois who was hospitalized due to complications of the infection. About one in 150 people who contract the disease caused by a bite from an infected mosquito develop a severe illness that can affect the brain, spinal cord, nerves and even cause paralysis. The case marks the earliest onset of illness observed in Illinois since 2016, and underscores the risk posed by mosquito bites, especially to those who are over 65 or immunocompromised. So far in 2025, WNV has been confirmed in 19 counties. The first WNV-positive mosquito batch of this year was found May 9 in Rockford. In 2024, there were 69 confirmed human cases of WNV including 13 deaths, the highest number since 17 WNV-related human deaths recorded in 2018. “The fact that we are seeing the first human case of West Nile virus so early

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MARYVILLE. – Chestnut Health Systems™ opened an Ambulatory Withdrawal Management program, an outpatient alternative to inpatient withdrawal management, on Monday, June 16, 2025. This program expands access to care for individuals experiencing mild to moderate substance withdrawal. Located at 2148 Vadalabene Drive in Maryville, IL, the Ambulatory Withdrawal Management program provides a safe, structured setting where patients can begin their recovery journey without requiring hospitalization. Services include daily clinical assessments, medication support, case management, and behavioral health care — all delivered with Chestnut’s signature person-centered approach. “This is a vital addition to our continuum of care,” said Amy Gibbar, vice president of Integrated Care. “Ambulatory Withdrawal Management offers a flexible, accessible solution for individuals needing support during early withdrawal without inpatient admittance.” The

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (Il-02) forcefully questioned Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. today as he appeared before the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee. She challenged his guidance change, announced through a video on X , ending COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for pregnant women and children. “It is clear that Health Secretary Kennedy received no serious input from medical experts in his unilateral decision to reverse COVID-19 vaccine recommendations,” said Rep. Kelly. “What concerns me is his lack of care for the consequences of his decision. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable to COVID – we saw that firsthand just a couple years ago when maternal deaths spiked during the pandemic. Vaccines are safe, effective, and the best medicine to prevent outbreaks.” “Secretary Kennedy's actions are proof that he is not fit for the job,” continued Rep. Kelly. “To the American people,

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ALTON — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Louis District, in partnership with the Wood River Drainage and Levee District, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, June 20, 2025, to mark the completion of the Upper Wood River Levee Underseepage Design Deficiency Correction Project. The event took place at the East Alton No. 1 Pump Station and celebrated a significant advancement in flood risk management for the region. The project addresses a known design deficiency in the levee system by implementing measures to control underseepage from the Mississippi River. Key improvements include the installation of 80 new relief wells, a drainage collection system, and the construction of an access road. These enhancements aim to increase the safety and reliability of the levee system, which protects approximately 31,000 residents, critical infrastructure, and 13,700 acres of property valued at $3.4 billion. “The completion of the project represents a major step forward

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O'FALLON - Curtis Newcomb was sworn in as the new Council Member for Ward 4 recently, bringing over a decade of public safety experience and a deep commitment to public service to the O'Fallon City Council. Newcomb, a lifelong resident of O’Fallon who now raises his own young family in the community, offers a unique perspective on the needs and values of the area. O'Fallon Mayor Eric Van Hook highlighted Newcomb’s background and approach, saying, “Curtis Newcomb was born and raised in O’Fallon, and now raises his own young family here — giving him a unique, lifelong perspective on the needs and values of our community. "With over a decade of experience in public safety and a deep commitment to public service, Curtis brings both practical insight and heartfelt dedication to the role. His collaborative approach and focus on responsible growth and resident well-being will make him a strong advocate for Ward 4 and a tremendous asset to our City

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ALTON - Greater Glory Christian Academy aims to get kids excited about God. The Academy is currently in its fourth week of summer camp, which runs through July 25, 2025. Camp is open to children ages 3–12 and costs $90 a week, and CHASI is accepted. Andrika Cooley explained that she loves working with the kids and teaching them about the Bible while enjoying fun activities. “What makes it special for us is that the children come in excited,” she said. “We’re able to really love on them, and they love on us. We learn from the children and the families as we’re teaching.” Kids spend their days at camp completing crafts, participating in STEM activities, playing with hands-on sensory stations, enjoying outdoor games, and learning about the Bible. They also have a weekly “water day” where they go to the Splash Pad at Riverfront Park in Alton. Camp runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. every weekday, with before and after care options

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Christian Employers Alliance (CEA) and other coalition partners have achieved a significant legislative victory as the Senate Finance Committee has approved CEA-backed language that would extend a vital tax credit aimed at helping employers provide benefits to hardworking families when most needed. With House approval already in hand , CEA and its coalition of faith-driven business leaders have successfully urged key members of the Senate to extend the IRS Section 45S Employer Credit for Paid Family and Medical Leave . Hundreds of thousands of hardworking families could be devastated if the credit expires as currently scheduled on December 31, 2025. CEA President Margaret Iuculano addressed Senate members and staff this week on the Hill, arguing in support of the credit on a panel hosted by the Blueprint for Life Pro-Life Coalition. Iuculano says the Senate Finance Committee’s action validates the coalition’s efforts

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EDWARDSVILLE — A fatal crash at the intersection of Troy Road and Goshen Road claimed the life of a Glen Carbon man Monday evening, June 23, 2025, Edwardsville Police said Tuesday morning, June 24, 2025. The Edwardsville Police Department responded to the scene at approximately 7 p.m. on June 23, 2025. The Edwardsville Police released information Tuesday morning and said after a preliminary investigation that a 2014 silver Ford Focus, driven by a 26-year-old Edwardsville man, was turning left from Center Grove Road onto Troy Road and struck a 2015 black Yamaha YZF-R6 motorcycle traveling westbound through the intersection. The motorcycle’s sole rider, a 29-year-old male from Glen Carbon, was pronounced dead at the scene by staff from the Madison County Coroner’s Office. The Illinois State Police were contacted to conduct the technical crash reconstruction, while the Edwardsville Police Department continues the overall investigation. Authorities have not released

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ALTON - As a local artist, Darla Cavins is looking to grow. Cavins always loved art. When she became an empty-nester, she decided to devote her time to painting and mixed media. Now, as the Milton Schoolhouse Artist of the Month, Cavins couldn’t be more excited to see how her art will continue to develop. “I think I’m at the point where I’ve decided or found what is really me,” she said. “I love bold colors, shapes and abstract work. My goal is for people to pause and say, ‘Wow.’ That is what I like in my art. Then I just start playing.” Cavins always enjoyed art, but she took a renewed interest in it when her son, Patrick, became old enough to enjoy it, too. Nowadays, Patrick is a prolific watercolorist in his own right, and Cavins has devoted her retirement to finding her niche in the art world. She shared that she mostly works with acrylic paint, but considers herself a mixed-media artist because “nothing is out

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned state Attorneys General at a bicameral spotlight forum entitled “Defending the Rights of the People: States and Congressional Allies Fight Back Against Trump's Constitutional Abuses,” with a panel of Democratic state Attorneys General who are combatting the Trump Administration’s egregious and unlawful actions through litigation. House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08) led the forum with Durbin. Durbin first questioned the Attorneys General about the Trump Administration abusing due process, specifically regarding the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) mass deportation efforts. During his questioning, Durbin recounted a visit he made to an immigration court on Friday in Chicago to see firsthand what is happening during these immigration hearings. “We know what’s happening in some of thes

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EDWARDSVILLE - During their regular meeting on June 23, 2025, the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 voted to approve the 2025–2026 District #7 Student Handbook, which included four price increases. Lunch prices will increase from $3.55 to $3.95. Preschool Academy tuition will increase from $175 per week to $200 per week. Middle school students will now pay $12.75, not $12, for their P.E. uniforms. Kid Zone prices will rise from $105 per week to $115 per week. Several Board members expressed concerns about the rising lunch prices. Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton clarified the district will never deny a student lunch based on their ability to pay. He added that families have the option to fill out an application for free or reduced school meals. CFO Dave Courtney explained the USDA requires school districts to increase their lunch prices every year to meet rising costs of food and supplies. In addition to the price changes, the new 2025–2026 District

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Ranking Member of the CST Aviation Subcommittee—issued the following statement announcing her strong opposition to Bryan Bedford’s nomination to serve as Federal Aviation Administrator. Her announcement comes after Bedford refused to commit to upholding the 1,500-hour certification standard for our nation’s pilots after Duckworth pressed him on the issue. “It is deeply disturbing that at this critical moment in aviation safety Mr. Bedford refuses to commit to upholding the 1,500-hour pilot training requirement. Amid a surge in near-misses, an air traffic controller shortage, aging air traffic control equipment and facilities, and in the wake of the first major deadly commercial crash in more than a decade, now is not the time to weaken flight hour requirements for all aspiring airline pilots. Incident

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will present a series of free history walks and porch talks at Springfield historic sites this summer. “Walk, Hike and Bike History” returns with experiences that connect participants with history and get them engaged outdoors. In addition, porch talks take place at the Lincoln Tomb and Dana-Thomas House now through Nov. 9. “IDNR is excited to offer this opportunity for people to get outdoors this summer and learn more about history in Springfield,” said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. “These unique tours will remind participants of the past while promoting healthy activity.” All tours are free. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made through Eventbrite . Visit the Springfield historic sites website or call 217-524-3971 for additional information. “Walk, Hike and Bike History” and porch talk experiences in Springfield include: Dana-Thomas

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Municipal Concert Band will perform a free summer concert on Thursday, June 26 at 7:30 p.m. at the Cleaon Etzkorn Bandstand in City Park. This week’s program, titled “American Folk Tapestry,” explores a series of works that showcase the sounds of river ballads, pioneer songs, spirituals, Shaker hymns, and more. Each piece is based on traditional songs and shows the work of composers connected to the Midwest, making the program feel both nationwide and close to home. Grab a seat, settle in with friends and family, and enjoy a summer evening filled with music from your local community band. Follow the Edwardsville Municipal Band on Facebook and Instagram for more information and updates.

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ALTON - Alton is rich in history, visible in its buildings, neighborhoods, and civic fabric. But if we don’t act with urgency, that history will vanish, one structure at a time. The next may be the Mary Jane and Julia Buckmaster House at 1121 State Street in Alton, located in the Christian Hill National Historic District. On paper, it’s a deteriorating home. But it’s far more than that. This house tells a story of Alton’s women — a story we can’t afford to lose. Julia Buckmaster, one of its earliest residents, was a civic leader, journalist, and entrepreneur. As president of the Alton Women’s League, she used her voice and influence at a time when women were rarely heard in public life. Her home was not just where she lived — it was where her legacy was built. That legacy is now in danger. Following foreclosure, the house was transferred to Fannie Mae. I’ve reached out — by email — to express my interest in taking ove

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SPRINGFIELD - Comptroller Susana Mendoza’s new podcast, The Mendoza Podcast – Financial Talk that Makes Cents, covers a wide range of topics. This includes the basics of budgeting, investing, and saving for college. “I’m a finance nerd at heart, and I really wanted to bring my knowledge, as well as advice from experts to the public,” said Comptroller Mendoza. “I think viewers and listeners will find some really great information in these episodes and have some fun along the way.” New episodes will be launched every Monday on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and coming soon...on Spotify. This first episode takes a look at how Comptroller Mendoza’s interest in all things financial began, and where the public can get started as well. “In upcoming episodes we tackle some tough subjects, like talking to your spouse or partner about money, and paying for infertility treatments,” added Comptroller Mendoza. “We also explore

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