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CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is reminding taxpayers that the Tuesday, April 15, 2025 deadline is quickly approaching for filing 2024 state individual income tax returns. The agency began accepting and processing individual income tax returns on Jan. 27, 2025 the same date the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) began accepting federal returns. "We encourage taxpayers to file electronically and choose direct deposit in order to ensure the fastest processing and issuance of any refunds," IDOR Director David Harris said. Illinois is participating in the free IRS Direct File program this year. Eligible Illinois taxpayers can use the program to file their 2024 federal returns directly with the IRS. Federal return information can then be transferred into MyTax Illinois, to file Illinois individual income taxes at no cost. Direct File eligibility can be confirmed by visiting https://directfile.irs.gov . “IRS Direct File offers free federal tax return filing

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EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is working with area early childhood agencies to take part in the annual Week of the Young Child (WOYC), which runs from Saturday-Friday, April 5-11, 2025, and is sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). SIUE is partnering with Birth to Five Illinois: Regions 50 and 41, Brightpoint, Madison County Alliance for Children & Families and the Metro East Illinois Association for the Education of Young Children. SIUE participants include the School of Education Health and Human Behavior (SEHHB) Department of Teaching and Learning, the Early Childhood Center (ECC) and the Head Start/Early Head Start Program (HS/EHS). “The Week of the Young Child is a national celebration of the power and importance of early childhood education,” said Rebecca Swartz , PhD, assistant professor in the SEHHB Department of Teaching and Learning. “High-quality early childhood education experiences

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April 8th has witnessed a myriad of significant events throughout history, shaping the world in various ways. As we look back in time, April 8, 1974, marked a pivotal moment in sports history when Hank Aaron hit his 715th home run, breaking Babe Ruth's long-standing record in Major League Baseball. Aaron's achievement transcended the sport, symbolizing the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in the United States during a time of racial tension. The event was celebrated by many, but it also faced backlash from those who were resistant to change. Aaron's legacy continues to inspire athletes and fans alike, as he is remembered not just for his incredible skill but for his perseverance in the face of adversity. In the realm of science, April 8, 1966, was a significant date when the famous Time magazine cover posed the provocative question, "Is God Dead?" This issue sparked a nationwide debate regarding religion's role in modern society and the burgeoning influence of science

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ALTON – In observance of the National Day of Prayer, Riverbend Christian Leadership Academy (RCLA) will host an evening of worship, prayer, and community unity on Thursday, May 1, 2025 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event will take place in the RCLA Gymnasium, located at 2009 Seminary St. in Alton. The gathering invites churches, pastors, worship teams, community leaders, and residents from across the Riverbend region to unite in prayer for the city, state, and nation. “We believe prayer changes communities,” said a spokesperson from RCLA. “In a divided world, we are choosing to come together in hope and truth, seeking God’s wisdom, protection, and direction.” A Gathering with Purpose Regional pastors and community leaders will guide attendees in prayer over key societal areas, including: Government – Local, state, and national leaders Churches and Pastors – For unity and boldness in leadership Families and Marriages – Seeking

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EDWARDSVILLE - During the work session of the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board of Education, the Board voted to approve the replacement of the Edwardsville High School track and the installation of a new synthetic turf field at the Winston Brown Track and varsity softball field. The Board of Education approved a purchasing cooperative contract pricing bid from Byrne and Jones at $2,329,259. This money will be paid over the next three fiscal years from the District's Operations and Maintenance fund. The decision came after many high school softball players spoke in favor of the new facilities, as did head softball coach Caty Happe and track coach Chad Lakatos. Several community members also spoke during the public comments portion of the meeting and asked the Board of Education to slow their spending. During the meeting, Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton showed photographs of the existing track and softball field, illustrating the age of the track and the

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EDWARDSVILLE - Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) Chancellor James T. Minor addressed the evolving landscape of higher education in statements released on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, emphasizing the need for academic program assessments to align with industry demands and student interests. Minor outlined the importance of program reviews in ensuring financial sustainability and maintaining a high-quality academic experience. In addressing the financial narrative surrounding academic changes, Minor clarified that SIUE is not facing a financial crisis. "At the beginning of the fiscal year, we adopted a budget that included a planned $10M structural deficit," he said. "This could have been easily resolved by quietly announcing a 2% budget cut and maintaining the status quo. Instead, we decided to manage more aggressively with the intent of introducing changes to our budgeting processes, executing a more dynamic enrollment management plan, and addressing efficiencies in ou

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JERSEYVILLE — Nick Hartley, a member of the Jersey Community High School wrestling team, has been recognized as a Sparklight Male Athlete of the Month following a successful junior season. Hartley concluded the season with an overall record of 29 wins and 12 losses, culminating in his qualification for the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) State Wrestling tournament, where he secured a victory. The achievement comes after several years of near misses for Hartley, who expressed his satisfaction with the progress he has made. "It feels amazing. I have been close the past few years," Hartley said. Frank Speidel, the head coach of the Jersey wrestling team, praised Hartley’s performances at state and on the season, noting the significance of his state match victory. "When Nick is on his A game, he can beat almost anyone. It was a great match, the one he won at state. Great job, Nick," Speidel said. Hartley’s accomplishment not only highlights his individual

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MASCOUTAH – MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) is pleased to announce that work is progressing on a 25,277-square-foot facility, currently under construction, that will enable the airport to process international commercial flights and attract additional aircraft and airlines. The facility, which will house U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), a General Aviation Facility, and a Federal Inspection Station, represents the fourth phase of terminal modifications made by MidAmerica St. Louis Airport to accommodate future passenger growth. The new facility is being built in two phases. Construction on Phase 4a began in late summer 2024 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. The $18.2 million project addresses the documented infrastructure needs of Customs and Border Protection and will include the General Aviation Facility and the exterior of the Federal Inspection Station. Work on Phase 4b, expected to cost approximately $10.9 million, will focus on the interior

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ALTON – The City of Alton is moving forward with grant applications for over $200,000 worth of upgrades at Gordon Moore and Riverfront Parks. The Committee of the Whole on Monday unanimously passed a resolution authorizing the mayor to apply for Park Enhancement Program (PEP) grant funds from the Madison County Park and Recreation Grant Commission . According to the resolution, the city is applying to help cover the cost of several projects at Gordon Moore Park. These include a new roof for pavilion #2, a small playground for pavilions #4, 5, and 6, resurfacing for two tennis courts, as well as a new small pavilion with a concrete pad, sidewalks, and three picnic tables for the all-inclusive playground at the park. Aside from Gordon Moore Park, the city is also applying to cover the remaining cost to build an outdoor Fitness Court at Riverfront Park . After receiving a $60,000 grant from the National Fitness Campaign and a $100,000 commitment from Alton Township, the

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EAST ALTON - The Attorney General’s Office has opened an investigation into the East Alton School District #13 Board of Education. On behalf of the East Alton Education Association (EAEA), member Fred Glover contacted the Attorney General’s Office and said that the Board of Education held an improper closed session on Feb. 18, 2025. According to a letter sent by Assistant Attorney General Katie Goldsmith, Glover said the Board discussed the consolidated election on April 1, 2025, and the EAEA’s possible endorsement of candidates during a closed session of the school board. “Specifically, Mr. Glover alleges that the Board improperly discussed the upcoming Board elections and the status of the Union interviewing incumbents for consideration of endorsement,” Goldsmith wrote. These allegations come after Board of Education member Connie Bailey sent text messages related to her campaign to an EAEA union member during the closed session. According t

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CALHOUN COUNTY - At 2:15 a.m. on Nov. 23rd 2024, athe Calhoun County Sheriff's Office was notified of a single vehicle traffic crash with injuries near the intersection of Mississippi River Road, and Prosker Lane, Brussels, Calhoun County, Illinois. Calhoun County Sheriff's Deputy Nicholas McCall responded to the scene and immediately began providing first-aid and live-saving care to the occupants of the vehicle. Ambulances responded from the Calhoun County Volunteer Ambulance Service and Jersey Community Hospital, and all occupants were transported from the scene to area hospitals. After performing first aid measures, Deputy McCall processed the scene and began an investigation. Subsequent to that investigation, and additional follow-up; on December 3rd 2024, the Calhoun County State’s Attorney’s Office filed a criminal complaint against the driver, Annabelle M. Hammond, age 23, of Batchtown, Illinois for the following offenses: Aggravated DUI – Bodily Harm

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CALHOUN COUNTY - On on November 6th 2024, the Calhoun County State’s Attorney’s Office filed criminal complaints against the suspect, James N. Holmes, age 46, of Carrollton, Illinois for the following offenses: Deceptive Practices / Bad Checks (Four Counts) The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office continued the investigation and discovered that the same suspect was also alleged to have paid with checks belonging to another individual. Subsequently, on December 12th 2024, the Calhoun County State’s Attorney’s Office filed an additional warrant to be served on Holmes for the following offenses: Forgery Unauthorized Use of Another’s Checks Deceptive Practices / Bad Checks (Two Counts) All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty.

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Letter To The Editor: I’d like to thank the residents of the Village of Godfrey for having confidence in me when casting their votes in last week’s election. I fully intend to keep our beautiful community moving in the right direction. Thank you to my many supporters and those who wished me well, and to my wife, Linda, for helping me through this campaign. I plan on working hard to make the residents of Godfrey happy with the outcome of this election. Thank you, Michael J. McCormick Mayor, Village of Godfrey

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BELLEVILLE - Community members will participate in a “Take Back the Night” walk to raise awareness about sexual violence. At 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) in Belleville, students, elected officials and community members will come together for a walk through campus followed by testimonials and presentations. “Showing that there’s a community that’s coming together for the event that all want to support not only sexual assault survivors but the community in general, for all facets — that’s the important part,” said Ella Huppert, who works with Metro East Every Survivor Counts. The walk was organized in part by Metro East Every Survivor Counts , a local organization that serves as a sexual assault crisis center. They provide medical advocacy, counseling and more to survivors. Metro East ESC has collaborated with HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners,

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PIASA - Mason Cougill, a standout guard and defensive tackle at Southwestern High School, has officially signed his letter of intent to play football at Knox College in Galesburg. The announcement was made recently, highlighting Cougill's commitment to continuing his athletic career at the collegiate level. Southwestern Head Football Coach Pat Keith praised Cougill's contributions to the team, noting that he was a key player and a two-year starter. “He had a good season; he was primarily an offensive guard in our system,” Keith said. Cougill's performance on the field has earned him recognition as the Altonized Community Federal Credit Union Male Athlete of the Month for the Piasa Birds. The signing marks a significant milestone in Cougill's football journey and reflects his dedication to the sport. Knox College will welcome him as part of its football program, providing him with an opportunity to further develop his skills and compete at a higher level.

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GLEN CARBON - Patrick Gierer, a sophomore hitter for the boys' volleyball team at Father McGivney Catholic, has had an outstanding start to his 2025 season and has helped the Griffins get off to a 4-4 start. Gierer thus far has served up 11 points and an ace, with 29 kills, a total of six assists, eight blocks, and 46 digs in his first eight matches of the season. He played very effectively in McKinney's win over Bunker Hill 25-10, 25-13 at the McGivney gym on April 3, 2025. In his post-match interview, Gierer feels that the Griffins are starting to come together as a team, and are ready to open up and go on a big roll. "I'm feeling really good," Gierer said. "These past few games, we've really started to come together, and I'm really excited for the rest of the season." The preseason training went very well for the Griffins, he also felt, and the team had fun preparing for the 2025 campaign. "Oh, yeah," Gierer said. "A lot of fun." Gierer is also a goalkeeper for the boys'

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WEST ALTON - The Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary, the Audubon Center at Riverlands and the national Leave No Trace program have collaborated for several days of environmental fun. At 6 p.m. on Friday, April 11, 2025, community members are invited to a trivia night at Old Bakery Beer Co. in Alton. The free event will include trivia about birds, the Leave No Trace principles, and more. On April 12, community members can sign up for a “Trash Bash” cleanup on Ellis Island, followed by the Watershed Festival at the Audubon Center in West Alton. “Essentially, the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary is being recognized as a National Spotlight area,” explained Corrine O’Brien. “That is a good environmental natural space that folks can come out from the community and celebrate how lucky we are to have it, and also give back and learn a lot about the Leave No Trace principles.” As part of this recognition, the Riverlands Migratory Bird

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GRANITE CITY – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that rehabilitation of a crossing by Norfolk Southern railroad on Missouri Avenue between Konzen Court and West Pontoon Road in Madison County will require a full closure beginning, weather permitting, Monday, April 14. A posted detour will be in place to safely guide motorists around the closure, which is expected to conclude Friday, April 18. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to detour signs in 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 Twitter at @IDOTDistrict8 or view area construction details on IDOT’s traveler information map on GettingAroundIllinois.com.

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TROY – A teacher for the Triad School District has been charged with grooming a 14-year-old student and more, according to newly released court documents. Michael L. Smargiassi, 59, of Highland, was charged on April 4, 2025 with Official Misconduct (a Class 3 felony), two counts of Grooming (both Class 3 felonies) and Battery (a Class A misdemeanor). From Aug. 21 to Oct. 7, 2024, in his capacity as a public school teacher, Smargiassi allegedly attempted to “seduce, solicit, lure, or entice a child … to engage in any unlawful sexual contact” on multiple occasions, according to charging documents. A petition to deny his pretrial release states the victim was one of his students. “Two students reported to school officials with the Triad School District that was having inappropriate communication with his student on October 7, 2024,” the petition states. “School officials discovered hundreds of pages of emails between the defendant and starting

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ALTON - The Alton Community Unit School District #11 Board of Education has approved a three-year collective bargaining agreement with the Alton Education Association. Board of Education President David Lauschke explained that teachers will be working under a new contract following the agreement between the Board of Education and the AEA. The new contract will go into effect on July 1, 2025, and expire on June 30, 2028. “We have certainty for the next three years in terms of salary schedules and verbiage in the contract,” Lauschke said. “That gives them a great deal of certainty, knowing what they’re going to be making and what the contract itself says.” In a statement, the Alton School District said the agreement was reached “through a streamlined, collaborative process.” After six negotiation sessions, a “tentative agreement” was reached on March 27. The AEA members voted for the contract on April 2, and the Board of Educatio

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