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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) is continuing her push for tax relief at the Illinois State Capitol by filing extensions on bills aimed at saving Illinois residents money. The push comes following the assignment of her bills to the Revenue Committee, where she hopes to present them this week. “High taxes are a constant concern for the people I represent, who are struggling to pay their bills and raise their families,” said Senator Harriss. “Providing tax relief is a top priority for me, and I will continue to advocate for legislation that eases the burden on Illinois residents.” The following legislation has been granted a committee deadline extension: Senate Bill 2086 : This bill raises the income eligibility for the Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption to $75,000 and ties future increases to inflation. Senate Bill 2095 : This bill would increase the general homestead exemption to $10,000 for tax year

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) and other Senate Democratic colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to immediately reinstate Title X family planning funding in 23 states after the agency began withholding grants that support basic health care for approximately one million people. “We are alarmed at the Trump administration’s attacks against providers that enable access to health care for low-income and uninsured people,” the Senators wrote in a letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “We urge you to swiftly reinstate funding to avoid extended gaps in service for vulnerable communities who rely on Title X funded health centers and programs.” Title X is the nation’s only dedicated source of federal funding for family planning. In 2023, the program

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Letter To The Editor: ST. LOUIS - The St. Louis election marked a major turning point for our city. I want to extend my sincere congratulations to Mayor-elect Cara Spencer and Comptroller-elect Donna Baringer on your victories. The people of St. Louis made clear that they believe in your distinct visions and leadership. I look forward to working together, identifying where our priorities align, and building a path forward that serves all of our residents. I also want to honor Mayor Tishaura Jones and Comptroller Darlene Green. Their contributions to this city, and to my own journey, cannot be overstated. I grew up under Darleen’s watch in the Comptroller’s office, and she has been a mentor and example throughout my career. Her legacy is one of strength, integrity, and service. Tishaura has been a trusted ally, friend, and advocate, and I remain aligned with her unwavering commitment to equity, especially in uplifting North St. Louis. As the new composition of the

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EDWARDSVILLE - On Wednesday, April 9, 2025, Mallory Sidarous, Director of University Housing, and Kim Watson, Associate Director of University Housing Facilities Management at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, were recognized with the prestigious Patriot Award from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a program of the U.S. Department of Defense. This distinguished award honors individual supervisors for their extraordinary support of employees who serve in the National Guard or Reserve. Sidarous and Watson were nominated by a service member within University Housing in recognition of their commitment to supporting those who serve. The directors’ efforts include providing flexible schedules, granting leaves of absence and offering support to families before, during and after deployment. David Balai, an electrician with University Housing Facilities Management, nominated Sidarous and Watson for the award in recognition of their unwavering support durin

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JERSEYVILLE – The Jersey County Arts Council is hosting classes coming soon for those looking to learn the art of hand-stitched embroidery. Classes will be held on Monday, April 14, 2025 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Jersey County Arts Council space in the First Presbyterian Church at 400 S. State St. in Jerseyville. Attendees will get a hands-on education covering the fundamental basics of the decorative art form. Classes are open to interested embroiderers ages 8 and up, though class sizes are limited. A non-refundable $25 donation to the Jersey County Arts Council is required to secure your spot and help cover supply costs. To register and get more details about the event, including a list of supplies, email sewingismysuperpower8@gmail.com . To learn more about other upcoming class offerings from the Jersey County Arts Council, visit their Facebook page or sewingismysuperpower.com .

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BELLEVILLE – Residents of Belleville and East St. Louis have been accused of mob action in related and recently filed criminal cases. The following individuals were each charged on April 11, 2025 with a Class 4 felony count of mob action: Ahmad J. Grady, 21, of Belleville Trequion D. Holman, 28, of East St. Louis Gabriel E. Boyd, 32, of East St. Louis On March 27, 2025, Grady, Holman, and Boyd allegedly acted together in physically attacking another individual. Holman and Boyd were specifically accused of striking the victim about the body with their hands and fists, while Grady was accused of kicking the victim about the body with his foot. Each of the cases against Grady, Holman, and Boyd were presented by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office. All three men have since been granted pretrial release from custody. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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WOOD RIVER — Firefighters responded to a structure fire early Saturday morning, April 12, 2025, in the 500 block of State Street. The Wood River Fire Department arrived to find heavy smoke coming from the residence. In response to the situation, a box alarm was requested, prompting assistance from neighboring departments, including Roxana, East Alton, and Rosewood Heights. Fire Chief Wade Stahlhut praised the collaborative efforts of the responding units. "Wood River and East Alton Fire Department responded quickly and was able to get a fast hit on the fire. It is great to have mutual aide to help us," Stahlhut said. The fire originated in a bedroom and spread to two rooms and the attic, causing significant damage. "The house appears fixable," Stahlhut noted. One occupant was able to evacuate the home but required treatment for smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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SWANSEA — Launched in 2020 and relaunched in 2025 after a nearly four-year hiatus, the podcast Pondoff’s Anonymous is making significant strides in the St. Louis Metro East recovery and mental health community. With new episodes released every Monday, the show features guests from across the country discussing topics ranging from substance use and trauma to shame, identity, and healing. Hosted by Chris Pondoff, Jeff Allen, and Jakob Miller, the podcast blends unfiltered conversation, personal storytelling, and dark humor to create a relatable and impactful listening experience. Pondoff, who started the podcast as a creative outlet during his own recovery journey, emphasizes the importance of authenticity in their discussions. “We’re unfiltered. We curse, we laugh, and we’re serious—we don’t pretend to have it all figured out,” Pondoff said. “People don’t come to us for polished answers—they come because it’s real.&rdquo

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ALTON - The Alton First Responders Springfest opened to an excited crowd. Early on Friday, April 11, 2025, kids and community members were coming down to the Alton Amphitheater for the first day of the weeklong Springfest, a carnival that will raise money for first responders. Proceeds from ticket sales will be distributed to Alton’s first responders and organizations that support them. “Go down, have fun, because a percentage of the profits from the carnival is going to go to our first responders,” said Dan Herkert, Alton Amphitheater Commission Chair. “Hopefully it’s something that is successful and it turns into another annual event because of the fact that it’s benefiting some of our local heroes.” The Alton First Responders Springfest, the first of its kind, includes carnival games, rides, food and fun. The rides take tickets, and each ticket costs $2 or you can buy 16 tickets for $30. On Monday through Thursday, each ride only

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GODFREY - James "Jimmy" Militello, a Godfrey resident known for his kindness and warmth, was involved in a fatal automobile accident in Moro Township on Monday, April 7, 2025. The Godfrey Meat Market announced it will close its doors at noon on Saturday, April 12, to allow staff to pay their respects to James "Jimmy" Militello , a beloved employee. He was 21 years old. “James was an excellent employee with the kindest soul,” said Ian Warford, of the Godfrey Meat Market. “You know when someone has a good soul. And James embodied that, no doubt about it.” James' uncle said he was "a loving and caring boy that everyone loved." Militello was born on March 1, 2004. He was described by family and friends as a proud big brother who often shared stories about his siblings. Ian and his wife, Lori, remarked, “James was a really great brother, especially to his baby sister, and a good guy. I think all of us are pretty much in shock over it.” The visitation

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MADISON COUNTY - Authorities are investigating a two-vehicle crash that resulted in serious injuries and one fatality at approximately 5:35 p.m. on Monday, April 7, 2025. The incident occurred at the intersection of Illinois Route 159 and Renken Road. According to preliminary information from the Illinois State Police (ISP) Troop 8, a Black Buick, driven by a 22-year-old female from Collinsville, was traveling westbound on Renken Road when it entered the intersection. ISP said at that moment, a White GMC truck, operated by a 39-year-old male from Dorsey, was heading southbound on Illinois Route 159. For reasons that remain unclear, the Buick was struck on the passenger side by the GMC. The driver of the Buick sustained serious injuries and was subsequently flown to a regional hospital for treatment. A 21-year-old male passenger from Godfrey - James Militello - who was in the Buick, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the GMC reported no injuries, while a 32-year-old female

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JERSEY COUNTY - Jersey County residents are invited to a presentation to learn more about their property tax assessment. Roberts Law, a law firm located in Jerseyville, shared that they have spoken to many people who are “frustrated” by their recent property tax assessment. The presentations, scheduled for Sunday, April 13, and Monday, April 14, 2025, will explain the appeal process and answer questions. “I’ve had a number of calls from people in Jersey County who’ve indicated that they’re frustrated with the level of tax increase that they’re seeing, certainly above normal,” said Jeff Roberts with Roberts Law. “If people want to challenge the tax assessment that they have, they may not know how to go about it, and I wanted to be able to present the procedure to them and be able to answer questions that they might have.” The public information meetings are completely free and open to Jersey County residents. Roberts

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ALTON - The first session of the Recreation Institute in Alton (also referred to as the Play Institute) was held Friday evening, March 20, 1925, at the High School gymnasium. Alton Director of Community Recreation John D. MacWherter introduced John A. Martin, recreational specialist, to the assembled group. Martin worked for the Playground and Recreation Association of America and traveled all over the United States as a recreational consultant. Martin demonstrated active, quiet and musical games so that the attendees could play them and teach them to children. The participants learned games for the playground as well as parlor games and stunts. The Play Institute was held on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday nights at 8 p.m. for three weeks. Seventy-eight people ages 18 to 60 came to the first session, and 125 attended the second. On March 30, a separate Play Institute for the Black residents of Alton (referred to at the time as the “Play Institute for Colored Persons”)

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ALTON - iMerge Community Center has officially closed its doors. Located at 200 W. 3rd Street in Alton on the first floor of the Riverbender Building, iMerge was focused on serving tweens and teens. The center was also available for rent for parties and events. Director Brigit Holt expressed her appreciation for the community’s support over the years. “It was a wonderful experience,” she said. “To be able to come back, get to know the community and the youth in it, and to be able to offer them a place to hang out was a blessing, to say the least.” Holt shared that she studied middle school-aged youth in college, and their brain development was always “fascinating” to her. She believes “it’s really important” for tweens to have “healthy and fun spaces” like the community center. John Muller, co-owner of the Riverbender Building, echoed Holt. He expressed his commitment to keeping the first floor space a

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CHICAGO – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today led a coalition of 20 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit in a lawsuit challenging a restrictive Tennessee law making it a crime for adults to help minors seek reproductive health care outside of Tennessee due to that state’s near-total abortion ban. In the amicus brief, Raoul and the coalition argue that Tennessee’s law not only endangers the health of minors from Tennessee but also threatens the ability of other states’ medical providers and residents to help them access lawful abortion care outside of Tennessee’s borders. Tennessee bans abortion in nearly all cases, with no exceptions for survivors of rape or incest. “States across the nation continue to implement draconian bans on reproductive health care, endangering the lives of pregnant women to advance an extreme ideological agenda,” Raoul said. “Illinois proudly remains

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ST. LOUIS, MO. - The Greater St. Louis Chapter of the American Red Cross is pleased to announce LaKricia Cox as its new executive director. Cox brings nearly 20 years of experience in community engagement, nonprofit leadership, and social impact to the organization. “LaKricia brings a wealth of experience, including strong leadership and partnership skills to the organization, and we are excited to welcome her to the Red Cross family,” Barry Falke, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross of Missouri and Arkansas. “Her passion, leadership, and commitment to making a difference align perfectly with our mission, and we are confident she will help us expand our reach and deepen our impact in the nineteen counties within our Greater St, Louis Chapter.” Cox has dedicated her career to advancing initiatives which promote education, equity, and community development with a strong emphasis on collaboration and sustainable change. She holds a Bachelor of

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and 11 of their Senate Democratic colleagues in a letter to Trump’s Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, demanding answers regarding the Administration’s decision to cancel funding for 10 National Institute of Standards and Technology Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Centers across the country. The action came on April 1, one day before Trump announced sweeping tariffs on imports which tanked the stock market and raised warnings from experts of a recession. “Small manufacturers rely on MEP Centers for essential support in adopting the latest advanced technologies, updating their cybersecurity, navigating supply chain challenges, and accessing workforce training—resources that are often out of reach for small businesses without this dedicated assistance,” th

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KAMPSVILLE - On March 21, 2025, the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office was notified of a Disturbance and Property Damage, at a residence in the 200 block of High St. in Kampsville, Calhoun County, Illinois. The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office began an investigation, collected evidence and conducted several witness interviews. Subsequent to that investigation, Lori A. Ross, age 54, of Kampsville, Illinois was arrested for the following offenses: Disorderly Conduct – False Report to 911 (Two Counts) Ross was arrested without incident and transported to the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office for processing; after which she was released with a Notice to Appear at the Calhoun County Courthouse. All suspect(s) are innocent until proven guilty.

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ALTON - The William L. Beatty Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse has been identified for accelerated disposition. Located at 501 Belle Street in Alton, t he William L. Beatty Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse serves as a social security administration office. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) listed the William L. Beatty Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse on their list of assets identified for accelerated disposition on March 31, 2025. “GSA is focused on rightsizing the federal real estate portfolio to reduce the burden on the American taxpayer while also delivering space that enables its agency customers to achieve their missions,” GSA said in a statement. “This initiative aims to engage the market, attract interested parties, and inform strategies that will expedite the disposition of federal assets, consistent with all applicable laws.” This means ownership of the building and assets will be transferred. Anyone who is interested

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ALTON - The Alton First Responders Springfest invites the community to enjoy a carnival while supporting local first responders. The Springfest is a carnival, complete with rides, food and fun. A percentage of ticket sales will be distributed to Alton’s first responders and organizations that support them. The carnival opens at 5 p.m. tonight, April 11, 2025, and runs through Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the Alton Amphitheater. “Go down, have fun, because a percentage of the profits from the carnival is going to go to our first responders,” said Dan Herkert, Alton Amphitheater Commission Chair. “Hopefully it’s something that is successful and it turns into another annual event because of the fact that it’s benefiting some of our local heroes.” The rides take tickets, and each ticket costs $2 or you can buy 16 tickets for $30. On Monday through Thursday, each ride only needs one ticket. On weekdays, the Springfest will run from 5–1

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