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Did you know that studies have shown exposure to flowering plants can reduce stress levels and boost overall mood by up to 15%? This powerful connection between humans and flowers explains why cultivating a flower garden is more than just an aesthetic pursuit—it can enhance mental well-being and create a sanctuary of calm. Yet, many aspiring gardeners shy away from flower gardening, intimidated by perceived complexity. The truth is, with thoughtful planning and consistent care, anyone can create a thriving flower garden that brings joy year after year. Planning Your Flower Garden: The Blueprint of Beauty Before digging your first hole or buying seeds, crafting a detailed plan is crucial. This phase determines the success and sustainability of your garden. Assess Your Space Start by evaluating the conditions of your garden area. How much sunlight does it receive throughout the day? Most flowering plants require at least six hours of direct sunlight, but some varieties thrive

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MASCOUTAH – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced lane restrictions will be encountered on IL 177 beginning at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, weather permitting. Traffic will be reduced to one-lane approximately 2 miles west of Mascoutah utilizing temporary traffic signals. The lane closure is necessary to allow IDOT District 8 Operations forces to perform emergency bridge deck patching on the bridge over Loop Creek. All lanes are expected to re-open by 5 p.m. on Monday, May 12. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment. 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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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul and a coalition of 17 states secured a preliminary injunction today against the Trump administration in an ongoing lawsuit to restore access to critical U.S. Department of Education (department) funds that support programs for students across the state. The preliminary injunction forces the Trump administration to restore states’ access to funds for programs that support low-income and unhoused students, and provide funding for other essential school services to address the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on K-12 students. “The Trump administration’s shortsighted and illegal decision to attempt to rescind already-appropriated education funding would hurt vulnerable students the most and could wreak havoc on the budgets of school districts throughout Illinois and the nation,” Raoul said. “I am committed to joining with my fellow attorneys general to stand up against the president’s continued

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May 7th is a date that carries a remarkable tapestry of historical events, spanning centuries and continents, reflecting moments of innovation, conflict, and cultural shift. In 1945, May 7th marked a monumental turning point in World War II, a conflict that had reshaped the geopolitical landscape of the 20th century. On this day, the German High Command signed an unconditional surrender at Reims, France, effectively bringing an end to the war in Europe. This act was witnessed and signed by representatives of the Allied forces, marking Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) celebrations that followed on May 8th. This surrender symbolized the conclusion of years of devastating warfare, loss, and upheaval, paving the way for a new era of reconstruction and the establishment of global institutions aiming to prevent such widespread conflict in the future. Moving back in time, another significant event on May 7th occurred in the realm of science and innovation. On May 7, 1915, the RMS Lusitania,

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – As Donald Trump and Elon Musk continue their all-out assault against the VA and the brave Veterans it serves, today combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (SVAC)—called out VA Secretary Doug Collins for erroneously firing 24 probationary employees with the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL)—employees who help provide life-saving care and critical resources needed by Veterans in their darkest moments. While the VA may have reinstated some workers, Duckworth made it clear at today’s SVAC hearing that every position at the VCL is mission-critical and none of the fired or rehired workers should have been fired in the first place. The Senator also highlighted that the lack of transparency surrounding these VCL firings in the wake of mass layoffs underscores the urgent need for greater oversight from Congress. Duckworth’s full remarks can be found on the Senator’s

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SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE – Scott AFB is cancelling its June 14 Open House, due to mission prioritization and fiscal considerations. “A lot of work has gone into preparing for this event, and we were looking forward to hosting everyone,” said Col. John Poole, 375th Air Mobility Wing and Installation Commander. “As always, the tremendous support from our community partners as we prepared to welcome the public to our flightline was second-to-none. While we share in the disappointment, we look forward to hosting a full airshow and open house in 2027 in celebration of Scott AFB’s 110th Anniversary.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs passed out of markup the Improving VA Training for Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Claims Act (H.R. 2201), a bipartisan bill led by U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Young Kim (CA-40), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06). According to VA officials, the department received 57,400 MST claims in fiscal year 2024, up 18% from the previous year, and approved more than 63% of them, up from roughly 40% more than a decade ago. As the number of claims rises, this legislation seeks to simplify the process for victims, helping them pursue justice without experiencing additional trauma. Watch Rep. Budzinski speak in support of the bill during today’s hearing HERE . The Improving VA Training for Military Sexual Trauma Claims Act: Requires the VA Secretary to create a plan to improve training for Contracted Disability Compensation Examiners (CDCEs) who assist veterans dealing with MST;

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GODFREY – After some debate at the Godfrey Village Board meeting Tuesday night , trustees voted 4-1 to select St. Louis-based consulting firm PGAV to develop an updated Comprehensive Plan for the village. Trustee Karen MacAtee said that while she supports eventually updating the village’s Comprehensive Plan, she didn’t see how the village could create such a plan while development along Lars Hoffman Crossing is reportedly at a standstill. Trustee Rick Lauschke said the village has had difficulty acquiring property for reasonable prices along Lars Hoffman. However, he and Trustee Craig Lombardi agreed that a new Comprehensive Plan may reveal opportunities for alternative commercial corridors to develop. Mayor Mike McCormick said he felt pursuing a new Comprehensive Plan – a process estimated to cost about $95,000 – would be a “waste of taxpayer money.” Lauschke disagreed, arguing it would be a waste of taxpayer money for Godfrey not to

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BETHALTO - Bethalto’s future teachers were honored at the annual Educators Rising signing ceremony at Civic Memorial High School. On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, this ceremony recognized the graduating students who have committed to studying education in college. Angie Neilson, who oversees the Education Pathway program at Civic Memorial, explained that the seniors have had the opportunity to shadow Bethalto teachers and engage with younger students, and she is incredibly proud of them. “I could teach them out of a textbook, which I do a little bit of that, but they push out into class and they’re teaching lessons and they’re out at recess and they’re helping during lunch, because that’s where they fall in love with it,” Neilson explained. “This was our biggest class of future teachers, so we thought about doing a signing to recognize them, because the hope is that they do come back here and teach.” The honored students included

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GLEN CARBON – Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois is pleased to announce that twelve girls were named Outstanding Graduating Girl Scouts at the annual Recognition of Excellence ceremony on Sunday, April 27. Outstanding Graduating Girl Scouts are awarded a scholarship for demonstrating their extraordinary leadership in the Girl Scout Movement, in school, and in their communities. Along with sharing their achievements and contributions, girls who apply for the scholarship submit an essay entitled “What Girl Scouts Means to Me” along with a reference letter. Outstanding Graduating Girl Scout Scholarships are funded from proceeds from the annual United We Lead Gala. Congratulations to this year’s Outstanding Graduating Girl Scouts! Kaylee Asher Belleville, Illinois Troop #74 Kyleigh Bagby Belleville, Illinois Troop #74 Riley Baldwin Fairview Heights, Illinois Troop #177 Violet Barnett Troy, Illinois Troop #578 Olivia Brodbeck Batchtown, Illinois

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ALTON – Senior Services Plus is excited to announce its third annual gala “Success in Aging” scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 5:30–9 p.m. at the Lewis and Clark Community College Commons. This event will honor outstanding organizations making a difference in the community, including Corporate Partner Honorees- Phillips 66 Wood River Refinery and US Foods; Community Partner Honorees- 1st MidAmerica Credit Union and Marillac Mission Fund; Community Hero Honorees- Illinois Department on Aging and Madison County Community Development; and volunteers from Hope Lutheran Church. As we prepare for this year’s gala, we are reminded of the values that guide our mission. “The way we treat our children in the dawn of their lives and the way we treat our elderly in the twilight of their lives is a measure of the quality of a nation,” said Hubert Humphrey. This sentiment reflects our strong commitment to providing essential support and services

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BETHALTO - Cathie Wells believes she was “destined” to work in education. Wells is a fourth grade teacher at Meadowbrook Intermediate School in the Bethalto Community Unit School District #8. Over the past 31 years at Meadowbrook, she has taught third and fourth grade, and she has enjoyed every minute. This Teacher Appreciation Week, she’s celebrating a great career in the field she loves. “I enjoy hearing my fourth graders’ laughter and seeing their smiles every day,” Wells said. “Those are the students that have made my job so fulfilling.” Wells always knew she wanted to work with children. When she got her first job as a teacher’s aide, she realized she was on the right track. Since then, she has spent the last few decades working with 9- and 10-year-olds in Bethalto and feeling certain that she is in the perfect field for her. She loves watching the kids experience “lightbulb” moments, when they finally

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PARK FOREST – Today, Congresswoman Robin Kelly announced she is running to succeed Senator Dick Durbin in the United States Senate. Robin is a mom, a former mental health counselor, and a relentless advocate for safety and public health, who since 2013 has represented Illinoisans from urban, suburban, and rural communities in Congress. Now, Robin is running for the U.S. Senate to make Illinois safer from crime and gun violence, to lower costs for families, and tackle health inequities. “Every day, Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Congressional Republicans are targeting Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, and passing policies that raise costs for Illinois families, small businesses, and farmers,” said Congresswoman Robin Kelly. “This moment requires proven leaders who have the experience to take on the toughest battles. I’ve never backed down – not from gun lobbyists, not from MAGA extremists, and certainly not from a fight for what’s right.”

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GRANITE CITY – Two St. Louis residents face the same set of felony charges after a “planned fistfight” in Granite City turned into a shooting. Devon J.L. Kilbert, 20, and Antonio M. Kilbert, 20, both of St. Louis, were each charged on April 25, 2025 with Class X felony counts of aggravated battery with a firearm and Class 4 felony counts of aggravated unlawful possession of weapons. On April 23, 2025, Devon allegedly shot the victim, causing injury and great bodily harm to the victim. While Devon is accused of actually committing the shooting, Antonio was also charged because Devon is reportedly considered “one for who is legally responsible.” Devon’s possession of a Glock 23 handgun, and Antonio’s possession of a Glock 29 handgun, were unlawful as neither individual had a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card or Concealed Carry License (CCL) at the time of the offense. A petition to deny Devon’s pretrial release

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Rotary Club has chosen to honor Edwardsville High School student Elias Gregory with the Student of the Month Award for April 2025. Elias was nominated by Edwardsville High School teacher, Ryan Lipscomb. Elias is the son of Erin Gregory. He is 17 years old and attends EHS. Elias is involved in multiple activities at the high school, including the Drama Club, Tri-M Music Honor Society, and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. He was a member of the EHS Symphonic Band from November of 2021 through May of 2025. Elias was a member of Honors MPS and Senior Seminar for four semesters. He was the leading male role in Edwardsville High Schools’ production of Chicago . Volunteering is important to Elias. He was a volunteer at the EHS Tiger Town Orchestra in 2022, 2023, and 2024. He was an EHS Choir Volunteer in February and May of 2024. Additionally, he was a Veteran’s Day volunteer at the Taps Performance in November 2022. He also attended the Re-Dedication

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ROXANA — The Roxana High School boys 4x800 relay team set a new school record at the Triad Invitational on May 2, 2025. The Shells team completed the race in 8 minutes, 8.45 seconds, breaking the previous record of 8:17.27. Roxana's 4x800 squad now appears primed for conference and sectional competition. The foursome had not been used completely together until this meet. The relay team members were Wyatt Doyle, Anthony Hardin, Talon Blas, and Noah McVey. The new record highlights the team’s performance at the invitational held at Triad. Roxana head boys track and field coach Julie Akal sees great things ahead for the four boys in conference and sectional meets. The Cahokia Conference Meet for Roxana's boys is Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Chester High School. Roxana's sectional will be at Civic Memorial on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

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ROXANA - Roxana High School’s Leah Newton broke a 20-year-old triple jump school record with a leap of 10.31 meters (33 feet, 10 inches) recently. Newton has been a standout athlete for the Shells in 2025, excelling in multiple events including the triple jump, high jump, hurdles, sprints, and relays. Leah is a Midwest Members Credit Union Female Athlete of the Month for the Shells. In addition to her record-breaking triple jump, Newton has posted a season-best high jump of 4 feet, 10 inches. She placed second in the high jump at the East Alton-Wood River Relays, the Roxana Home Co-ed Meet, and the Madison County Small Schools Championships. Newton also secured victories at the Roxana Home Co-ed Meet and the Madison County Small Schools Meet. Her personal records this season include a 14.24-second 100 meters, 1:08.83 in the 400 meters, 17.94 seconds in the 100-meter hurdles, and 56.04 seconds in the 300-meter hurdles. Roxana head girls' track and field coach Julie Akal commented

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BETHALTO - Janice Fee is preparing to retire, but her students aren’t getting rid of her just yet. Fee, a fifth grade teacher at Meadowbrook Intermediate in the Bethalto Community Unit School District #8, joked that her students are “kind of stuck with ” even after they graduate from her classroom. She continues advocating for her kids and watching them grow through their high school career. This Teacher Appreciation Week, she’s reflecting on how much she has enjoyed her 33 years of teaching. “I love their personalities!” Fee said of her students. “They become these little best friends that I love. I get to see them learn and grow up to be amazing adults.” Fee still remembers the “amazing teachers” she had as a child, and this inspired her to go into education. She wanted to pay homage to those educators and be a positive influence on kids as they grow up. Over the years, she has enjoyed watching her students mature

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HIGHLAND/JERSEYVILLE - The circus is coming to town. On May 27, 2025, in Jerseyville, and May 29, 2025, in Highland, community members can enjoy Carden Circus, an international act with motorcycle stunts, archery, aerialists, animals and more fun for people of all ages to enjoy. Arline Carden, the fifth-generation manager of the circus, promises a great time for families. “The circus is fun,” Carden said. “They’re really, really, really going to be excited to come and see it. If they come, I promise they’re not going to regret it. They’re going to be enjoying it so much.” In Jerseyville, the show starts at 7 p.m. on May 27 at American Legion Post 492. In Highland, community members can come at 7 p.m. on May 29 to the Madison County Fairgrounds. Carden suggests arriving an hour early to enjoy the preshow fun, with face-painting, inflatables, camel rides, pony rides, pictures with snakes and circus stars, and more. When the circus starts,

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WOOD RIVER - Devon Barboza, a senior at East Alton-Wood River High School, is being recognized for his dedication and achievements in baseball. Barboza, who has played the sport since tee-ball, credits his hard work and commitment both on the field and in the classroom for reaching this milestone. “I’ve always been a hard worker, whether it be for sports or school,” Barboza said. “I always make sure my grades are up and I don’t have missing assignments. I'm putting in work during the off time whether I feel like it or not.” Barboza is a Midwest Members Credit Union Male Athlete of Month for the Oilers. Barboza expressed appreciation for the support he has received throughout his athletic career. “I would like to thank both of my parents for always making sure I was at practice and always supporting me. Also want to thank every coach I have had to help me get to this point,” he said. His current coach, Tim Bond, has played a significant

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