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WOOD RIVER - Haley Pratt, a senior at East Alton-Wood River High School (EAWR), has been recognized for her outstanding performance in softball, marking a significant milestone in her athletic career. Pratt, who has played softball for nine years, made history this spring as the first Oiler to hit three home runs in a single game. Haley is a Midwest Members Credit Union Female Athlete of the Month for the Oilers. Pratt credits her success to hard work both on the field and in the classroom. “I’ve always been a hard worker, whether it be for sports or school,” she said. Under the guidance of coach Mike Beachum, Pratt has developed not only her athletic skills but also leadership qualities, which she values deeply. “I enjoy what it feels like to be a leader and a part of something,” she noted. Her parents have played a crucial role in her journey, providing support by taking her to extra lessons, tournaments, and practices, and ensuring she always had

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ALTON - Alton High School’s Theatre and Music Departments will present the musical “Into the Woods” on April 24 and 25 at 7 p.m., and April 26 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. The performances will take place at the school’s auditorium at 2200 Humbert Road in Alton. The production features the work of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, known for their acclaimed contributions to musical theatre. The show is directed by a team including Anne Davis, Laura Plummer, Leah Galbraith, Rachel Brady, Derrick Davault, Julia Frazier, Michael Frazier and Kristi Doering. “Into the Woods” draws loosely from the Grimms’ Fairy Tales, weaving together the stories of several classic characters who venture into the woods and become entangled in each other’s lives. The narrative explores themes of wish fulfillment, personal responsibility, love, forgiveness and the complexities of life’s choices. The cast includes Marvin Short as the Baker, Nadja Kapetanovich

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MADISON COUNTY — The Madison County Sheriff's Office has announced the addition of a new member to its team. Patrol Division Deputy Sheriff Max Ringering has joined the office and is set to attend the upcoming police academy session. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office expressed well wishes for Deputy Ringering’s safety and success as he begins his career in law enforcement. Officials also said they look forward to his contributions to the department.

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Did you know that if every person on Earth used just one less plastic bag per week, we would save over 5 trillion bags from polluting the planet annually? This startling figure reveals the immense power of individual choices in shaping the health of our environment. Earth Day, celebrated globally, is more than a symbolic occasion; it is a call to recognize the collective strength embedded in small, everyday actions. Understanding how these seemingly minor efforts accumulate to create significant environmental benefits is crucial for fostering sustainable habits worldwide. The Ripple Effect of Individual Actions Environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss often seem overwhelming and distant. However, the concept of the “ripple effect” illustrates how individual actions can propagate through communities and ecosystems, amplifying their impact. For example, choosing to bike instead of drive for short trips reduces carbon emissions and

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April 22 has long been a date marked by significant milestones spanning exploration, environmental awareness, and political change. Looking back to earlier years, April 22 has been equally notable for events that shaped the social and environmental landscape worldwide. In 1970, this date marked the first celebration of Earth Day, an event that galvanized environmental movements globally. Conceived by Senator Gaylord Nelson of the United States, Earth Day sought to raise awareness about environmental issues such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change. The inaugural celebration saw millions of people across the United States participating in rallies and educational programs, laying the groundwork for environmental policy reforms and inspiring ongoing global activism. Today, Earth Day remains one of the largest secular observances worldwide, highlighting the continued importance of stewardship of our planet. Turning to political history, April 22, 1915, witnessed the Second

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EDWARDSVILLE - WSIE 88.7 The Sound’s Jazzathon fundraiser (the Spring Edition) will broadcast from 3-7 p.m. Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Tune in to hear performances from some of St. Louis’ finest musicians, along with conversation about the importance of WSIE and other special events. While WSIE is located on the campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, this heritage FM radio station serves the entirety of the St. Louis region. “The Jazzathon is our semi-annual pledge drive, when we ask our listeners for financial support through donations,” said WSIE General Manager Jason Church. “Although we routinely ask for support, this is a time that includes robust discussions around why donations are needed and for spotlighting in-studio performances and special local guests.” “WSIE is amazing in supporting local artists,” added Director of Corporate Sales Robin Boyce. “This station is the backbone of the music scene here in

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SPRINGFIELD - Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration: Illinois Housing Development Authority Daniel Hayes will continue to serve as a Member of the Illinois Housing Development Authority.* Hayes brings nearly three decades of commercial real estate debt and equity experience, with a strong track record of maximizing returns and mitigating risks. He currently serves as Senior Director and Head of Midwest Mortgage Originations for New York Life Real Estate Investors, where he leads a team of originators and analysts in sourcing, underwriting, and closing debt investments across the Midwest for investor clients. Throughout his career, Hayes has held key leadership roles in the industry, including Senior Vice President of Private Real Estate Debt at Heitman, Senior Vice President of Investment Management at Hunt Companies, and Vice President of Construction Lending at Capmark Finance.

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Early risers on April 25 are in for a treat, as the heavens put on a show guaranteed to brighten anyone's morning—a rare and whimsical celestial alignment that will form a vivid smiley face looking down from the eastern sky. This remarkable astronomical event, visible shortly before dawn, features a delicate, 27-day-old waning crescent Moon positioned gracefully beneath two prominent planets, Venus and Saturn. Venus, brilliantly luminous and commonly referred to as the "Morning Star," and Saturn, known for its iconic rings and subtle golden hue, will shine brightly as the eyes of this cosmic smile. Completing the cheerful expression, the Moon's slender crescent will gently curve into a warm, welcoming grin. Astronomers call such occurrences planetary conjunctions, brief moments when celestial bodies appear remarkably close together from our vantage point on Earth. This unique arrangement is particularly special because of its unmistakable human-like expression, providing observers

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EDWARDSVILLE - EXO Lounge offers a luxurious experience in Edwardsville. Located at 2 157 Center in Edwardsville, EXO operates as a nail bar, med spa and restaurant. Gianni Colucci, Director of Culinary, shared more about the lounge’s offerings on a recent appearance on “Our Daily Show!” with C.J. Nasello . “I try to do my best to make them feel good on the inside and outside,” Colucci said. “It is fun and elegant. People enjoy their time over there. You can see people stay there not just to do the services, but to enjoy the place. It’s also fun to see ladies take care of themselves, and men will stay at the bar and take care of themselves in a different way.” EXO opened in late 2024. They offer a variety of services, but Colucci is especially proud of the culinary department. As a Michelin-star chef, Colucci traveled from Italy to join the EXO team. He has curated an expansive food menu and cocktail menu with

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PIASA - Vivian Zurheide has emerged as a key player for Southwestern High School’s girls softball team, contributing both on the field and as a mentor to younger players. Coach Amanda Edwards praised Zurheide as “an outstanding hitter” and highlighted her value in the field as well as her dedication to working with junior high players. Vivian is an Altonized Community Federal Credit Union Female Athlete of the Month for the Piasa Birds. Zurheide is also an outstanding overall athlete and is a talented member of the Piasa Birds' volleyball and basketball teams. Edwards expressed gratitude for Zurheide’s role beyond her athletic abilities, saying, “Vivian is very, very good with the younger girls, passionate about working with younger girls and building a program and passing down the knowledge also rubbing off on everybody around her.” As one of Edwards’ assistants with the Southwestern junior high team, Zurheide’s influence extends to

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O'FALLON - O'Fallon Township High School District 203 inducted 175 new members into its National Honor Society chapter on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. The O'Fallon NHS ceremony took place at 7 p.m. in the Milburn Auditorium, formally recognizing students who successfully completed their candidacy. During the event, current National Honor Society officers addressed attendees, highlighting the four core qualities that define the organization: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. The induction serves to honor students’ academic achievements and commitment to these standards. O'Fallon Township High School expressed pride in the inductees’ accomplishments, emphasizing the significance of their dedication to both academic and personal excellence.

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ALTON – Improvement projects for two Alton streets are one step closer to reality following unanimous Committee of the Whole approval on Monday. Committee members agreed to move forward with negotiating Construction Engineering Services Agreements between the city and Sheppard, Morgan & Schwaab, Inc. (SMS) for two projects – the State Street Phase 3 resurfacing project and the Main Street improvement project. Both projects consist of pavement patching and milling, asphalt resurfacing, sidewalk, curb, and ramp upgrades for certain sections of State and Main Streets. The third phase of the State Street project would span 0.61 miles from Logan Street to West 9th Street, while the Main Street project would cover 0.58 miles from Hillcrest to College Avenue. Once negotiated, both agreements will be presented to the City Council for approval at a future meeting. Stay tuned to Riverbender.com for the latest updates on these and other Alton City Council items.

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EDWARDSVILLE - Framing his remarks with a grateful glance to the past, a resolute look to the present and a hopeful glimpse into the future, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville student Nicholas Young will participate in the upcoming Southern Illinois University (SIU) System’s Conversation of Understanding (COU). “From SIU to the World: Insights from the Class of 2025” will be held from 12-1:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 22 as a virtual panel discussion . Other student panelists include Paetyn Cage, SIU School of Medicine; Gavin Hardy, SIU Carbondale; and Diamond Jackson, SIU Carbondale Simmons Law School. Sheila Caldwell, EdD, SIU System Vice President for Antiracism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and Chief Diversity Officer, will serve as the moderator. The panelists will shed light on the multifaceted aspects surrounding student success and the tangible benefits it provides for individuals and the broader educational communities across SIU campuses. Young,

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GRAFTON - Having been duly sworn in at the Jersey County Clerk’s office, Grafton City Clerk Jennifer Capler swore into office returning officials Mayor Mike Morrow, City Treasurer, Lisa Fitzgerald, Alderman Richard Mosby, Alderwoman Donna Smith and new Alderwoman Mary Jo Cote at the city council meeting on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. All electees ran unopposed. Mayor Morrow will continue to oversee the affairs of Grafton for the next four years which will include the ongoing project with the ferry committee working towards fulltime ferry service between Grafton and St. Charles, MO, improving city infrastructure and parks, and balancing budget details. Mayor Morrow presented retiring Alderman Andrew Jackson with a plaque of appreciation for his ten years of faithful and dedicated service to the citizens of Grafton. During his decade-long tenure, Andy served as the City Treasurer, chairman of the City Finance Committee and numerous other select committees, culminating in time served

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BRIGHTON - Grace Strohbeck pitched a perfect game recently to lead Southwestern to an 11-0 victory over North Greene in a five-inning softball contest. The game took place recently, with Strohbeck retiring every batter she faced, a rare achievement in softball and baseball. Grace is recognized as the Altonized Community Federal Credit Union Female Athlete of the Month for Southwestern, highlighting her all-around contributions to the team. Southwestern head coach Amanda Edwards praised Grace's performance, saying, “It’s always a good day when a kid is perfect. It is always nice to see.” In addition to her pitching prowess, Grace has demonstrated strong offensive skills. Edwards added that she noticed Grace was on track for perfection by the third inning but chose not to mention it until after the game, when the team celebrated.

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BELLEVILLE — Belleville Police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred Sunday night, April 20, 2025, near an apartment complex on Freedom Drive. At approximately 11 p.m. on April 20, officers responded to the 200 block of Freedom Drive following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found an unresponsive adult male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the upper torso. Emergency medical personnel attempted life-saving measures, but the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives from the Belleville Police Department, along with the Crime Scene Unit and State Police Crime Scene Investigators, processed the scene and began an investigation. Multiple witnesses were interviewed, and key evidence was collected, leading to the identification of a person of interest. The investigation is ongoing. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Belleville Police Department at (618) 234-1212 or CrimeStoppers anonymously at (866) 371-TIPS (8477).

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today issued the following statement honoring the passing of Pope Francis: “Pope Francis was a pillar of the Catholic Church, a beacon of hope, compassion and light in times of fear, hatred and darkness. Throughout his life, he taught us that in order to be great, we have to be good. He urged each of us to care for the poor, feed the hungry, be humble stewards of the Earth and treat others how we would want to be treated ourselves—even if they pray or live differently than us. His teachings remain as important as ever. “May he rest in peace and may his spirit continue to uplift and guide all those who followed his sacred word.”

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul charged a Macoupin County woman alleging she stole several thousand dollars from the Macoupin County State’s Attorney’s drug asset forfeiture account while employed as the office manager for the state’s attorney’s office. The Attorney General’s office charged Jacalyn Walker, 35, of Carlinville with one count of theft of government property less than $10,000, a Class 2 felony punishable by up to seven years in prison; as well as five counts of wire fraud and six counts of official misconduct, all Class 3 felonies punishable by up to five years in prison. Sentences will be served concurrently and are ultimately determined by the court. Walker’s next court date is May 13. “My office regularly partners with state’s attorneys around Illinois to protect residents from individuals who prey upon children, traffic drugs and guns, and so much more. It is unacceptable that someone would take advantage

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EAST ST. LOUIS — Nine individuals have been charged with federal immigration-related offenses in southern Illinois over the past two months, according to U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. The charges stem from cases in Effingham, Madison, Monroe and St. Clair counties. The defendants, all identified as illegal aliens, face a range of charges including illegal reentry after deportation and possession of firearms. Eight of the nine are repeat offenders, Weinhoeft said, noting that most had been deported previously and subsequently reentered the United States. The only exception faces a firearms-related charge. “Every time an illegal immigrant unlawfully enters the United States, they commit a federal crime,” Weinhoeft said. “These charges show our commitment to prioritizing repeat offenders and those who threaten public safety.” The individuals charged include Josue Lopez-Serrano, 35, of Mexico, charged with illegal reentry in Monroe County; Angel Carmona-Perez,

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SPRINGFIELD, IL. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) announced the winners of her 2025 Congressional Art Competition. Natasha O’Brien, from Springfield High School, was declared the winner of the contest for her piece titled “Oh, Do I?” Her artwork will be displayed in the halls of the U.S. Capitol for one year. Second place was awarded to “David and the Lion” by Aysha Spence from Eisenhower High School in Decatur and third place was awarded to “Lipstick on a Pig” by Leah Sanderfield from Glenwood High School in Chatham. The winners were selected by judges Julie Dailey, a local artist based out of Springfield, Betsy Dollar, the Executive Director of the Springfield Art Association, and Johnette Mitchell, a leader in the Decatur area art community. Congresswoman Budzinski with Natasha O’Brien, the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. “We received so many incredible submissions and had a number

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