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EDWARDSVILLE - The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Police Department has hit yet another bull’s-eye in excellence and distinction. The Department recently achieved Gold Level in the Lexipol Connect Program – for the fifth year in a row. Lexipol is a leading content, policy, and training platform for public safety agencies. The Lexipol Connect Program tracks performance on the following five metrics to measure success in policy management: policy updates pending, policies issued, policies acknowledged, data training bulletins issued and data training bulletins taken. “The SIUE Police Department has once again earned national recognition for its dedication to professional excellence, receiving the Lexipol Gold Award for Excellence in Policy Management for the fifth consecutive year,” said SIUE Police Capt. Justin Lieberman. “This prestigious honor reflects the department’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is reminding taxpayers who missed the April 15, 2025, income tax filing deadline that it is not too late to file and that prompt action can help minimize penalties and interest if a balance is owed. “While the filing deadline has passed, the longer you wait, the more it could potentially cost you due to penalties and interest,” explained IDOR Director David Harris. “Whether you owe money or are due a refund, it is important to get your return filed and take that first step.” The original due date to file and pay Illinois individual income tax for calendar year filers is April 15, 2025. IDOR grants an automatic six-month extension of time to file a return and for those who file on a calendar-year basis, the new due date is October 15, 2025. If taxpayers receive a federal extension of more than six months, they are automatically allowed that extension for Illinois. An extension of time to file does not

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a coalition of 22 attorneys general, filed an amicus brief in support of a proposed class of plaintiffs challenging the unlawful termination of Job Corps, a national program that offers career training and housing to young Americans from low-income backgrounds. “For more than 60 years, Job Corps has offered vocational and academic training to teenagers and young adults who often lack the support and skills necessary to transition to the workforce and provide for themselves and their families,” Raoul said. “President Trump’s decision to dismantle this vital program is illegal, and I will continue to work with my fellow attorneys general to protect our residents from the Trump administration’s unlawful actions.” Last week, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York issued a preliminary injunction in favor of the plaintiffs in National Job Corps Association et al. v. Department

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ST. LIBORY – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that road repairs on Illinois 4 from Illinois 15 to Illinois 13 in St. Clair County will require daily lane closures beginning, weather permitting, Monday, July 7. Flaggers will maintain two-way traffic. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes during this closure. 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. The project is anticipated to be completed this fall. 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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ST. LOUIS - For nearly the past two decades, the St. Louis region’s transit advocacy agency Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) – in conjunction with AARP in St. Louis and the St. Clair County Transit District – has helped more than 10,000 older adults integrate walking and public transit use to explore area attractions in a group setting through its Ten Toes + Transit Program. Walk leaders are a key component of the ongoing success of this award-winning program, and CMT is seeking additional individuals willing to lead a walking group for its 12-week-long Fall 2025 session getting underway in August. “I was a walk leader for 17 years and enjoyed every minute of it,” stated Mary Fran Balmer, who led more than 400 walks over the years and now walks as part of a group. “I’ve made lifelong friends and visited amazing places as part of this program. I encourage others to consider being a walk leader.” Walk leaders guide a group of

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Food sizzling on the grill is one of the classic sounds of summer — right up there with kids splashing in sprinklers and the crack of a bat at the ballpark. That sizzling can also be a good stand-in for how we might feel outside on a sweltering day. With a little planning, though, we can make our time in the sun feel cooler and more comfortable — and much better for our skin. “Any amount of tan, and certainly sunburn, represents damage to the DNA of our skin cells,” said Dr. Aubriana McEvoy, a dermatologist at WashU Medicine in St. Louis. “And the more sun people get over their lives, the more of a chance there is for damaged cells to turn into skin cancer, which can affect our quality of life and, in some cases, the length of our lives.” Too much sun can also lead to wrinkles, coarse skin and discoloration, making our skin look older than it is, she added. Some simple steps can go a long way toward lowering the risk of skin cancer while keeping

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has announced an expansion of its list of ZIP codes where lead exposure testing is required for children who live within those areas. 180 new zip codes, representing parts of 47 Illinois counties, have been added to the list this year, bringing the total of high-risk ZIP codes to more than 1,350. By this time next year, all remaining ZIP codes in the state will be included, implementing universal childhood lead testing statewide. “IDPH is committed to building brighter futures for our children and families,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “This latest expansion of lead testing list brings us closer to achieving the ambitious goal of universal statewide testing. There is no safe level of lead in the blood. Early detection and intervention are critical tools to help protect Illinois’s kids from the serious health and developmental challenges caused from lead exposure.” Lead

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GODFREY - The Greater Godfrey Democrats will host a special meeting with the opportunity to meet two local candidates. At 6 p.m. on Monday, July 14, 2025, community members are invited to IBEW Local 649 in Godfrey for the regular Greater Godfrey Democrats meeting, followed by presentations by Randy Raley and Lexy Dona. Raley, a former KSHE DJ, hopes to run against Congresswoman Mary Miller in Illinois’s 15th District. Lexy Dona intends to run for the Madison County Board. “What has been interesting is I’m 56 years old, and I never really understood how to get involved in politics. How do you get involved in the process? I’ve always kind of been interested but never really knew how to participate,” said Craig Rathgeb, the organization's chair. “There are avenues for folks to participate, and my goal as chairman is to teach and pass along the information that I’ve learned and how to participate in the political process and share your views,

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today, as part of a coalition of 21 attorneys general, sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) opposing a proposed rule that would end critical fair housing regulations that prohibit discrimination in the marketing of affordable housing. The Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing (AFHM) regulations require owners of federally assisted housing to target advertising and outreach regarding their properties to communities that otherwise might not have learned about the opportunity to live there. The proposed rule would repeal these regulations, which are designed to ensure that federally assisted housing providers do not market available housing to only certain groups as had been done in the past to maintain racially segregated neighborhoods. “The legacy of discrimination and segregation in housing continues to negatively affect the overall health of communities and limits the potential of neighborhoods

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EDWARDSVILLE — Henderson Associates Architects, a staple in the Edwardsville architecture community since 1976, has merged with Collinsville-based REspace Design to strengthen its legacy and expand its capabilities. The merger combines Henderson’s longstanding reputation and local heritage with REspace’s expertise in green architecture and emerging technologies. Founded by William Henderson, the Edwardsville firm is now led by his son, Jamie Henderson, who has been at the helm since 1999. The partnership with REspace, a virtual architecture firm co-founded by Eric Bratzler and Ryan C. Suess, aims to enhance efficiency, communication, and cost-effectiveness in architectural design. “We’ve put a lot of focus on green architecture and rely heavily on emerging technologies, employing innovative methods to improve communication, find efficiencies and reduce costs,” said Bratzler. “Pairing our modern approach with the rich heritage, meaningful focus

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ALTON - What happens behind the scenes at Centerstone? With locations across the country, including a spot in Alton, Centerstone is a national leader in mental health and substance use treatment. Brittany McCrady, a clinical manager at Centerstone, shared that she has seen Centerstone grow a lot in the 11 years since she started there as a therapist, and she is proud to be a part of the community in Alton. “When I first started, I felt like the community had a decent bit of stigma about the services and our clients that we work with. And over time, I think some of that has improved,” she said. “I think now, the community sees Centerstone as a great resource — I hope, anyway. Maybe I’m biased. But I think that now our services and our clients are viewed a little bit differently.” McCrady noted that Centerstone has increased their services over the years. With more options, from crisis stabilization to care coordination to outpatient

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O’FALLON – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced that lane closures will be in place on eastbound Interstate 64 at U.S. 50 in St. Clair County for pavement patching. Beginning, weather permitting, at 7 a.m. Tuesday, July 8, traffic will be reduced to two lanes. Starting at 7 p.m. the same day, traffic will be reduced to one lane. All lanes are scheduled to reopen by 7 a.m. Wednesday, July 8. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes during this closure. 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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EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt secured nearly half a million dollars in grant funding to boost tourism in the Metro East. “Investing in tourism brings more people to Illinois, boosting the local economy and creating more jobs,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “With the Metro East bordering Missouri, we have seen how these investments encourage people to visit from out of state. Whether you’re a family-owned restaurant or a new boutique, investments in tourism help our entire community.” Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, a total of $6.3 million was awarded to 36 grantees through the Route 66 Grant Program, Tourism Attractions Grant Program and Tourism Private Sector Grant Program. Through the Route 66 Grant Program, Discover Downstate Illinois received $220,500 to boost attendance and interest in the IndyCar event at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison by transforming it into a festival

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DES MOINES, IOWA - The following local students have been named to the Deans' and President's Lists at Drake University. To be eligible for the Deans' List, students must have earned a GPA of 3.5 or higher during the Spring 2025 semester at Drake. To be eligible for the President's List, students must have earned a perfect 4.0 GPA during the Spring 2025 semester at Drake. Drake University is recognized as one of the finest national liberal arts universities. A distinctive and distinguished private university in Des Moines, Iowa, Drake enrolls nearly 3,000 undergraduate and more than 1,800 graduate students. Students choose from more than 70 majors, minors, and concentrations and 20 graduate degrees offered through seven colleges and schools. In addition, Drake offers a range of continuing education programs serving working professionals, community members, and area businesses. Drake recognizes the importance of its location in Iowa’s capital city and seeks to connect its teaching

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS – Revity Credit Union proudly hosted its 9th Annual Tee Up Fore Veterans Golf Tournament at Stonewolf Golf Club in Fairview Heights. Despite the rain, the community's spirit shined brightly as the event took place on June 6th, the anniversary of D-Day, a day of profound historical significance. This year’s outing was a tremendous success, raising a total of $41,595 to benefit the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight. The Tee Up Fore Veterans event is a cherished community tradition that unites local businesses, golf lovers, and generous donors, all working towards a common goal: supporting our veterans. This year's event was particularly special as it honored WWII Veteran Ralph "Goldie" Goldsticker, who passed away just a week before the golf outing. His legacy and dedication to our nation were fondly remembered throughout the day. Revity Credit Union generously donated $20,000 to cover the outing expenses, ensuring that all proceeds could directly support the

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ST. LOUIS - Schnuck Markets, Inc. has announced that Schnucks customers and the company raised $110,000 to support St. Louis tornado victims following a “Round up at the Register” that concluded on June 10, 2025. The two-week campaign allowed customers to choose to round up their grocery purchase to the nearest dollar. Thanks to the generosity of Schnucks customers and the company, 100 percent of these donations will be split evenly between the United Way of Greater St. Louis and Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis to support the relief efforts for those affected by the tornado last month. In addition to the round up campaign, Schnucks hosted a personal care item drive in St. Louis-area stores where customers were encouraged to bring in or purchase personal care items and leave them in each store’s respective collection bin. Thanks to the kindness of Schnucks shoppers, 20 pallets of some of the most sought after items have been donated directly to those in need.

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AURORA – Aurora University has named Antonia Phillips of Alton to the Dean's List for the spring 2025 semester. Phillips is majoring in Sport Management, Marketing. The Dean's List recognizes full-time undergraduate students who have earned a 3.6 grade-point average or higher.

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ALTON — A 17-year-old female was fatally shot early Friday morning, July 4, 2025, on Oakwood Avenue, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Alton Police Department. At approximately 2 a.m. on July 4, officers responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting in the 900 block of Oakwood Avenue. Upon arrival, they found the victim with an apparent gunshot wound. Officers provided immediate aid until the Alton Fire Department arrived to assume medical care. The victim was transported to a local hospital and later airlifted to a St. Louis area hospital due to the severity of her injuries, where she subsequently died. The Alton Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division has been activated and is actively investigating the incident. The Illinois State Police Crime Scene Unit assisted with processing the scene. Additional support was provided by officers from the East Alton Police Department, Wood River Police Department, SIUE Police Department, Madison County Sheriff’s

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July 4th is a date packed with historical significance around the globe, resonating far beyond its well-known American roots. Arguably, the most globally recognized event occurring on this day is the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the United States in 1776. This momentous act marked the birth of a new nation founded on principles of liberty and democracy. The declaration declared the thirteen American colonies independent from British rule, setting into motion a series of events that would not only reshape North America but also inspire freedom movements worldwide. The language of the Declaration, emphasizing unalienable rights and government by consent, would echo in countless other struggles for independence and human rights globally. But July 4th has significance beyond America’s founding. For instance, in 1802, the United States Military Academy at West Point graduated its first class, laying the foundation for professional military education in the country.

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Did you know that nearly 70% of Americans celebrate Independence Day with family gatherings, yet only a fraction of those celebrations incorporate meaningful, creative activities that truly honor the spirit of freedom? Independence Day is more than fireworks and barbecues; it’s an opportunity to deepen family bonds while reflecting on the values that shape the nation. Here are inventive ways to celebrate Independence Day with your family that go beyond tradition, making the day memorable and meaningful for all ages. Reimagining Patriotic Traditions Most families associate July 4th with fireworks, flags, and cookouts, but there are enriching ways to reimagine these traditions. Consider crafting a “Freedom Tree” where each family member writes down what independence means to them on colorful paper leaves. Attach these leaves to a branch or small indoor tree to create a visual representation of diverse perspectives within your family. Another idea is to host a family

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