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ALTON - Community members gathered to hear from Alton’s aldermanic, City Clerk, and mayoral candidates. On Feb. 4, 2025, the East End Improvement Association hosted a candidates’ forum that allowed all of the Alton candidates to introduce themselves. The three mayoral candidates — David Goins, Ray Strebel and Brant Walker — also answered questions submitted by the audience. “Why is East End doing this forum? For, actually, two purposes,” explained Steve Schwartz, a representative with the East End Improvement Association and the forum’s moderator. “One is to introduce the candidates to the community. We feel that it is important that the community know who’s running. And also, hopefully, to increase the voting here in Alton.” The candidates began by introducing themselves. Brant Walker Brant Walker is the former mayor of Alton. During his opening statement, he shared that he is “an Altonian by choice”

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GODFREY – A proposal for Godfrey roadway improvement projects totaling over $1.3 million is one step closer to final approval. The 2025 Roadway Maintenance Program received unanimous Finance Committee approval on Tuesday night. The program calls for five types of projects - including roadway selection, concrete pavement replacement, asphalt resurfacing, micro-surfacing, and chip-seal overlay - to be completed on various village roads. Village Engineer Rich Beran outlined the goals the program sets for the 2025 construction season in a memo to trustees and Mayor Mike McCormick. Priority-Based Roadway Selection Beran said roadways would be chosen for improvements in a way that aims for maximum positive impact on Godfrey residents while getting the most out of the $1.3 million in funding. “The number of motorists using the roadway, the cost of the repair, and the condition of the street must be weighed with each decision,” Beran states in the memo. “The

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EDWARDSVILLE - Although Edwardsville's girls' basketball team lost a close decision to Belleville East 49-47 at: Lucco-Jackson Gym on Jan. 30, 2025, sophomore point guard Sophie Shapiro had perhaps the best quote of the night, from the Tigers' perspective. "We'll learn a lot more from this game, and it might be what we needed to fill in some missing pieces, and really prepare us for the postseason," she said. Shapiro has had a very positive impact on the 13-9 Tigers, averaging 4.1 points and 3.4 rebounds per game. She also has 42 assists, 38 steals, and four blocked shots to add to her resume, as Edwardsville gets ready for the IHSA Class 4A playoffs, beginning later in February. She is a Spencer Homes Female Athlete of the Month for the Tigers. Shapiro has an upbeat, positive look on things for Edwardsville, and felt that the Tigers bounced back well in the second half, after a difficult first half against the Lancers. "Good comeback, tough first half," Shapiro said, summing

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ALTON – 2024 brought another year of excellence in a variety of ways to OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center that encompassed, among other things, clinical operations, service offerings, community outreach, and the introduction of a new – and unique – Mission Partner. First, and most importantly, in terms of clinical excellence, OSF Saint Anthony’s received a total of seven (7) awards/certifications/accreditations in recognition of its diligent dedication to providing and sustaining a patient-centered focus in its health care Ministry. Last year, OSF Saint Anthony’s was the only hospital in the St. Louis metro east region to receive two (2) consecutive “A” grades from The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit watchdog. Leapfrog assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country based on over 30 measures of errors, accidents, injuries

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O'FALLON, IL. — The O'Fallon Police Department is warning residents about a phone scam that has recently targeted citizens in the area. The scam involves callers impersonating law enforcement officials, specifically identifying themselves as Sgt. Lee Graham from the St. Clair County Sheriff's Department. O'Fallon Police said in two reported incidents, victims received phone calls claiming they had warrants issued for failing to appear in court. The callers sometimes referred to the situation as involving federal court and mentioned the name of a current federal judge from the district to lend credibility to their claims. O'Fallon Police said to further persuade the victims, additional individuals were added to the call, making the scam appear more legitimate. The scammers instruct victims to withdraw money from their bank accounts and deposit it into a Bitcoin ATM. "The O'Fallon Police Department emphasizes that at no point will legitimate law enforcement request payment

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GODFREY - Get ready to flex those brain muscles and dive into a night of trivia while supporting The Nature Institute (TNI) in its epic quest for education, restoration, and preservation. TNI invites the public for a fun-filled Trivia Night fundraiser at Godfrey KC Hall, located at 1713 Stamper Lane in Godfrey, IL., on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. Doors swing open at 5:30 p.m., and the trivia questions kick-off at 6 p.m. Grab your squad and register ahead of time or pay at the door, it'll be $150 per table ($18.75 per person). “We’re thrilled to bring back this trivia night fundraiser," Ramona Pollard, director of TNI outreach, said. "Teaming up to tackle quirky questions is a fantastic way to connect with family and friends while giving back to our community. There are cash prizes for the top two teams, plus cool silent auction goodies up for grabs." Feel free to bring along some tasty snacks for your table, but remember: alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase,

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ALTON - The Alton Marina is preparing for another great season, with several events lined up this summer. Rob Honke, Alton Marina manager, explained that the marina is currently winterized and undergoing some minor repairs during this winter season, including replacing exposed deck boards with concrete. He is excited to welcome back boaters from around the country once the weather warms up, and he promises fun events for everyone to enjoy on the river. “We’re getting ready for the next season,” he said. “It’s a nice lull in the action. It’s not that there’s nothing to do. There are things to do, but we aren’t quite as pressed. We shorten our hours. We close the office on Sundays. Basically right now, our main focus is making sure the boats are safe and making sure the aerators are on when the ice comes.” Honke thanked Stutz Excavating for their work on the concrete, noting that it will likely be completed by the middle

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EDWARDSVILLE – Super Bowl weekend is here, and the Edwardsville Police Department is reminding football fans and Super Bowl partygoers that designated drivers are the best defense against the dangers of impaired driving. If your Super Bowl celebration involves alcohol or cannabis, plan for a safe ride home with a sober driver. If you’re hosting the party, take care of the designated drivers. Fans don’t let fans drive drunk. “Everyone wants to have a good time on Super Bowl night, so we want our community residents and guests to plan for safe rides home,” said Lt. Brandn Whittaker. “Even one drink or hit can impair judgment. You should never put yourself or others at risk because you made the choice to drive impaired.” Whether you’re attending a party, hosting a small gathering, or going out to a bar, keep safety at the forefront of your day and night. When it’s time to leave, make sure your designated driver is sober. Also remember,

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GRANITE CITY – Members of the Granite City High School Band made their mark at the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) All-State Band Competition this year by having five musicians selected to perform in the ILMEA All-State Festival. The five students who earned All-State honors include: Karlisa Brent: Flute Bailey Hanks: French Horn Adrianna Ireland: Trumpet Victoria Robinson: Euphonium Alyssa White: Bass Clarinet These rehearsals culminated with the All-State Concert and Honors Concert, held at the Peoria Civic Center Arena on February 1. This is the highest honor a high school musician can receive. The five students will be honored at the Granite City Community School District #9 Board meeting at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025. The Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) is an organization established to provide professional growth opportunities for Illinois music teachers and to provide music making opportunities for the most talented

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JERSEYVILLE – Two Jerseyville residents have been charged with mob action in separate but related Madison County criminal cases. Randall W. Barnes, 35 , and Saranda R. Green, 29 , both of Jerseyville, were each charged with a Class 4 felony count of mob action on Jan. 23, 2025. On Dec. 17, 2024, the two allegedly worked together in approaching someone’s vehicle before attempting to force entry and “threatening to batter the victim,” according to court documents. Both cases were presented by the Alton Police Department, and both Barnes and Green were granted pretrial release from custody. Charges are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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GRANITE CITY – The Granite City Police Department has charged four individuals in two separate cases with pairing up to commit mob action. Charles A. Payne, 61, and B randon M. Payne, 29, both of Granite City, each face Class 3 felony counts of aggravated battery and Class 4 felony counts of mob action. On Jan. 20, 2025, the two allegedly worked together in str iking an individual “about the head and body, causing lacerations” while in a public place at Patrick’s Bar in Granite City, according to court documents. Both individuals were granted pretrial release in the ir cases, which were presented by the Granite City Police Department on Jan. 29, 2025. In two separate cases filed just two days prior, Zachary A. Hildebrand, 36, and Ronald J. Hildebrand, 33, also of Granite City, were also charged with Class 4 felony counts of mob action. The two reportedly acted together and with “another unknown individual” in battering a victim

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ROSEWOOD HEIGHTS – The Rosewood Heights Fire Department responded to a fire in the 100 block of Dell Avenue on Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 4, 2025, where a shed was on fire. Firefighters arrived on the scene and found the shed ablaze in the backyard of a residence. Access to the fire was initially hindered by nearby fences, but crews were able to quickly bring the fire under control before it could spread further. According to neighbors, there was a report of someone burning leaves in the vicinity prior to the fire's outbreak. No injuries have been reported, and the fire department is currently investigating the cause of the incident.

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CHICAGO - Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) are encouraging eligible Illinoisans to take advantage of savings offered by tax credits when filing their 2024 income tax returns this year. “Depending on circumstances, taxpayers may be able to reduce the amount of taxes owed or receive larger refunds through tax credits,” explained Illinois Department of Revenue Director David Harris . “I urge all taxpayers to double-check their eligibility status and take advantage of these benefits when filing their tax returns this year.” The Illinois Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a benefit for working people with low to moderate income. To claim an Illinois EITC for tax year 2024 (tax returns due in 2025), taxpayers must file an Illinois income tax return, even if they do not owe any tax and are not required to file and: have worked and earned income under $66,819 (income amount is dependent upon filing status and number of qualifying

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today launched its annual Black History Month campaign, designed to honor and uplift the contributions of Black Illinoisans, business owners and leaders. DCEO, through its Office of Economic Equity & Empowerment (OE3), will host virtual and in-person events throughout February to spotlight long-standing Black businesses across Illinois highlight Black business accomplishments and contributions to the state, and showcase the State of Illinois’ commitment to growing and investing in Black businesses. As part of the month-long celebration, DCEO launched a webpage featuring events and resources, including resources to support Black-owned businesses, a social media toolkit , and more. The 2025 theme, Legacy and Impact, pays homage to Illinois’ rich Black history and celebrates the economic and cultural contributions of Black Illinoisans. “Black-owned businesses are at the heart

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EDWARDSVILLE - EXO Lounge invites the community to come out and enjoy a fun Galentine’s Day evening with specials, champagne, music and more. From 6–10 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, community members can receive plenty of perks at EXO Lounge in Edwardsville to celebrate Galentine’s Day, a holiday modeled after Valentine’s Day that celebrates friendships between women. Lauran Rayner, who organized the party, explained that the goal is to bring friends together and give them a night of affordable luxury. “Basically, we’re just wanting people to grab their girls, their friends, and pamper themselves with a Galentine’s Day event,” Rayner said. “There’s going to be drink specials. They can book their manicure and pedicure during or before the party, and just celebrate that friendship, fun and fabulous vibe.” Attendees can enjoy EXO’s regular nail bar and med spa services in addition to food and drink

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ALTON - 2024 brought another year of excellence in a variety of ways to OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center that encompassed, among other things, clinical operations, service offerings, community outreach, and the introduction of a new – and unique – Mission Partner. First, and most importantly, in terms of clinical excellence, OSF Saint Anthony’s received a total of seven (7) awards/certifications/accreditations in recognition of its diligent dedication to providing and sustaining a patient-centered focus in its health care Ministry. Last year, OSF Saint Anthony’s was the only hospital in the St. Louis metro east region to receive two (2) consecutive “A” grades from The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit watchdog. Leapfrog assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country based on over 30 measures of errors, accidents, injuries and infections

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EDWARDSVILLE - SIUE Emeritus Professor Stephen Hansen will explore the myths and legends of Abraham Lincoln at the inaugural event of the 2025 MCHS Speakers Series at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, at the Main Street Community Center in Edwardsville. Hansen isn’t going up against the Super Bowl since his presentation will be completed long before the big game begins. The program is “A Superhero from Another Age: The Legend and Mythology of Abraham Lincoln.” Hansen will explore why we are still fascinated with Abraham Lincoln. At different times, Lincoln has been seen as the Savior of the Union, the Great Emancipator, the Self-Made Man, and the Man of the People. These images and legends are so powerful that nearly every segment of American society has claimed Lincoln to represent them from the American Vegetarian Society to the American Communist Party! Hansen will explore how the Lincoln legend grew and changed over time and why it is important for us today.

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) today announced the establishment, leadership, and membership of Senate Judiciary Subcommittees for the 119th Congress. “The Senate Judiciary Committee is arguably the workhorse of Senate committees. The list of historic hearings held before it is long and filled with memorable testimony,” Durbin said. “These are consequential times, but we have a talented group of Democratic members and I look forward to them leading the national debate on the critical issues we face.” “The Senate Judiciary Committee’s broad jurisdiction tasks us with important responsibilities, such as safeguarding Americans and our border, empowering consumers, pursuing justice against criminal offenders, vetting nominees to the federal judiciary and upholding the founding principles of our Constitution,”

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) is encouraging everyone in Illinois to practice how to Drop, Cover, and Hold On! during Earthquake Awareness Month. “A strong earthquake won’t just affect southern Illinois, but the entire state given its proximity to two major seismic zones—the New Madrid Seismic Zone on the border with Missouri and the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone on the border with Indiana,” said Director Alicia Tate Nadeau. “The best way to stay safe during an earthquake is to Drop, Cover, and Hold On! If you practice this regularly, you’ll know exactly what to do during an earthquake because a strong earthquake could easily affect homes and infrastructure throughout Illinois.” Whether you are in your home, a school classroom, a high-rise or other type of building, it is important to know how to protect yourself during an earthquake. Practice what to do during an earthquake

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MACOUPIN COUNTY — Spectrum, the #1 rural internet provider in the nation*, today announced the launch of Spectrum Internet, Mobile, TV and Voice services to more than 315 homes and small businesses in rural areas of Macoupin County. Spectrum’s multi-year Rural Construction Initiative is driven by an approximately $7 billion private investment from Charter and will ultimately connect approximately 1.75 million new homes and small businesses across the country. “Spectrum is bringing gigabit broadband to unserved communities in Illinois and across America,” said Aaron Detwiler, Area Vice President for Spectrum’s Missouri Management Area. “Our investment is making it possible to deliver the high-value broadband, mobile, TV and voice services now available in Macoupin County. We are providing residents and small businesses superior connectivity at highly competitive prices, backed by a team of skilled local technicians and 100% U.S.-based customer

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