Riverbender 🕸

CHICAGO — Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul today co-led a coalition of 19 attorneys general in filing a lawsuit seeking to stop the U.S. Department of Education from withholding federal funding from state and local agencies that refuse to abandon lawful programs and policies promoting equal access to education in K-12 classrooms across the nation. On April 3, 2025, the Department of Education informed state and local agencies that they must accept the Trump administration’s new and legally incoherent interpretation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 with respect to diversity, equity and inclusion efforts – or else risk immediate and catastrophic loss of federal education funds. In Illinois, this would mean the immediate loss of almost $1.4 billion in congressionally mandated financial support for schools. “The Trump administration is now attempting to illegally stop the allocation of these Congressionally-mandated funds in order to push a vague,

Continue Reading

CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker released the following statement regarding the arrest of a sitting Judge Hannah Dugan in Wisconsin: "Arresting a sitting state judge is an alarming escalation of Donald Trump’s war on the courts. Shortly after, Attorney General Pam Bondi went on Fox News to brag about it and confirm this authoritarian administration is going to keep persecuting and prosecuting sitting judges. “We do not have kings in America. We do not accept propaganda as fact. And we do not let an authoritarian federal overarch hold us back from speaking up for justice. “America was built on a system of Checks and Balances where different parts of our government have the duty to hold the power of the others to account. Today is a reminder for the Judiciary, Congress, and States to do our part in holding Trump and his lackeys accountable. ? “While we must closely follow the emerging facts and details of this case, there is no question today is

Continue Reading

CHICAGO — The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) adopted proposed new rules at its April 24, 2025, meeting, including a prohibition on the use of credit cards to fund sports wagering accounts to further support responsible gambling. When legal sports wagering began in Illinois in March 2020, sports betting was authorized in 13 other states, and none prohibited the use of credit cards to fund sports wagering accounts. Since that time, the industry has significantly evolved and today sports betting is legal is 40 states. At the 5-year mark of sports wagering in Illinois, IGB staff is reviewing current sports waging practices and rules to measure effectiveness and identify potential areas for adjustment. “As part of our review, we determined that prohibiting the use of credit cards to fund sports wagering accounts is a justified and impactful advancement in Illinois sports wagering,” said Illinois Gaming Board Administrator Marcus D. Fruchter. “There is a growing body

Continue Reading

CHICAGO- Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined local officials, representatives from Argonne National Laboratory, Green Era Sustainability, and Urban Growers Collective to celebrate the fully-operational Green Era Campus on the South Side of Chicago in Auburn-Gresham. The ribbon-cutting highlighted Green Era Campus’ most exciting new addition: the Midwest’s first self-sustainable anaerobic digester , which will divert millions of pounds of landfill food waste to produce clean energy and nutrient-rich compost. “This project, years in the making, is a testament to the positive change that we can produce with local, state, and federal partnerships,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I am grateful for the work that Urban Growers Collective and Green Era have done to provide access to fresh food, minimize food waste, and produce renewable energy on the South Side of Chicago. With this campus’ focus on serving local communities with fresh food, urban farming opportunities

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading

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%

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading

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,

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading

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

Continue Reading