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CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) today reminded senior citizens about the availability of the Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral Program. The program, which works like a loan, allows qualified seniors to defer all or part of their property taxes and special assessment payments on their principal residences. The deadline to apply for the program this year is March 1, 2025. The maximum amount that can be deferred, including interest and lien fees, is 80 percent of the taxpayer’s equity interest in the property. The maximum deferral each year is limited to $7,500. Deferred amounts are borrowed from the state, who pays the tax bill to the county collector's office. Interest on the amount paid by the state accumulates and a lien is placed on the property for all deferred tax payments and interest. Three percent simple interest per year is payable upon death of the homeowner, at the time the home is transferred to a new owner, or sooner, if the program participant

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EDWARDSVILLE - Presence does not constitute “belonging.” Belonging is a journey. It is part of one’s narrative, and in building the conditions of belonging, it starts with honoring people’s story, according to Terrell L. Strayhorn, PhD, one of the three editors of “ Belonging in Higher Education: Perspectives and Lessons from Diverse Faculty .” Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s School of Education, Health and Human Behavior (SEHHB) hosted the book editors on Tuesday, Feb. 11. Presenting their research and data in two different lectures were book editors Nicholas D. Hartlep , PhD, Robert Charles Billings Endowed Chair in Education at Berea College in Kentucky; Fred A. Bonner II , EdD, Professor and Endowed Chair in Educational Leadership and Counseling and Founding Executive Director of the Minority Achievement, Creativity and High Ability Center at Prairie View A&M University in Texas; and Strayhorn , Professor of Education

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GLEN CARBON - Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois is excited to announce that the sweetest weekend of the year is here – National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend! If you haven’t gotten your freezers stocked up yet, we have you covered! Feb. 21-23, 2025 will be the biggest weekend for the Girl Scout Cookie Program as cookie booths will be held in areas all throughout Southern Illinois. To find a cookie booth near you (for this weekend or any other weekend through March 9) – or to have cookies delivered straight to your door - visit gsofsi.org/findcookies or text COOKIES to 59618. While buying cookies for yourself, you can also purchase a box or two to donate to our Bake It Forward program. Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois will partner with local Children’s Hospitals and Ronald McDonald House as our Girl Scout Cookie donation recipients this cookie season. The 2025 national Girl Scout Cookie season theme, Unbox the Future, aims to remove social barriers that often kee

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DECORAH, Iowa — Lydia Marti of Highland is among the 612 students recently named to Luther College's Fall 2024 Dean's List. To qualify, a student must earn a semester grade point average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale. About Luther College At Luther College in beautiful Decorah, Iowa, students explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu .

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CARLINVILLE - Carlinville Community will host a Community Blood Drive with ImpactLife, the provider of blood components for local hospitals. The blood drive will be from 12 to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at 201 West Main Street, inside Elks Lodge. What: Carlinville Community Blood Drive When: Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 12-5 p.m. Where: Elks Lodge, 201 West Main Street, Carlinville, IL Appointments: To donate, please contact ImpactLife Springfield at (800) 747-5401 or visit www.bloodcenter.org and use code 60045 to locate the drive. Appointments are requested. 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. Donors who last gave blood on or before 1/8/25 ar

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Did you know that poor posture can be just as detrimental to your health as smoking? A study from the American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation found that individuals with poor posture are more likely to experience chronic pain and decreased mobility. This stark revelation is a wake-up call in a world where many of us spend countless hours hunched over screens. With the rise of remote work and digital devices, the need for effective posture-improving strategies has never been more pressing. This article will explore simple exercises that can transform your posture and enhance spinal health, empowering you to lead a more active and pain-free life. Understanding Posture and Its Impact Before diving into exercises, it’s essential to grasp what constitutes good posture. Good posture involves maintaining the natural curves of the spine, which include a slight inward curve at the neck and lower back, and a slight outward curve in the upper back. When these curves are

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Welcome to another fascinating installment of 'This Day in History,' where we explore significant events that have shaped our world on February 19th. **The Most Impactful Event: 1942 - The Executive Order 9066** On February 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, which authorized the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. This decision was influenced by the fear and prejudice that gripped the United States following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. The order led to the forced relocation of around 120,000 individuals, two-thirds of whom were American citizens, to internment camps across the country. This event remains a poignant reminder of the dangers of racial prejudice and the fragility of civil liberties during times of war. In the decades that followed, there have been various efforts to rectify the injustices faced by Japanese Americans, including formal apologies and reparations from the U.S. government. The legacy

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This weekend, the Riverbend area is buzzing with an exciting variety of events that cater to diverse interests, from live music and trivia nights to delicious food festivals and wellness workshops, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. For a complete listing of all upcoming events, be sure to visit https://www.riverbender.com/events/ . If you want to make sure even more of the region is aware of your event email cj@riverbender.com and explore our range of Event Promotion Services! Featured Be a part of an evening of nostalgia at the Speakeasy Swing Dance: Presented by the Alton Community Service League on February 21, 2025, at the Wood River Moose. Step back in time to the 1920s, 30s, and 40s with live music by The Granite City Swing Band. The night begins with a complimentary dance lesson, followed by a spirited evening of dancing. Enjoy drinks and appetizers while participating in the Vintage Trunk Raffle for exciting prizes. Doors open at 5:00 PM, and the live

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EAST ALTON — The East Alton Police Department identified the victim of a fatal incident early Monday morning as Adam Moss, a 40-year-old man who was homeless and known to reside in the East Alton and Alton area. Authorities reported that an autopsy was conducted in Springfield, Illinois, revealing that Moss suffered from thermal burns and smoke inhalation. The examination found no evidence of trauma, leading investigators to conclude that there were no signs of foul play. The East Alton Police Department responded to a call regarding a possible deceased subject at approximately 3:45 a.m. Monday. Upon arrival, officers discovered a deceased white male in the basement of the home. Evidence of a recent fire, including burnt debris, was found in the same room as the deceased. As the investigation continues, police have indicated that the circumstances surrounding Moss's death appear to be accidental. Further details regarding the incident have not been released.

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GODFREY – Property owners near Straube Lane in Godfrey asked village trustees on Tuesday to consider widening the road to accommodate heavily increased traffic. Longtime Straube Lane resident Marilyn Kuhn said she’s seen firsthand how traffic in the area has grown, while the road itself has not. “I’ve been living there 46 years, and over the years, more people have moved out there. It’s getting quite busy and Straube Lane is very narrow,” Kuhn said. “When there’s a school bus or dump truck or … any kind of larger vehicle, I have to go in the grass – and if the grass is soft, it’s in mud … I’m just asking if the village would consider widening Straube Lane.” Kuhn also voiced concerns about a derelict property in the 900 block of Straube Lane, and asked the board to look into ways to mitigate a sharp left turn on Straube Lane where there was recently an accident. Carol Baker also spoke in support

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ALTON - The Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club's 39th Annual Chili Chowdown is set for Monday, March 3 at Main Street United Methodist Church in Upper Alton. The popular fund-raising event features all-you-can eat chili, beverage, and dessert for just $10.00. Serving hours are 11 a.m. through 1 p.m. and again 4:30 p.m. through 7 p.m. Diners may eat-in or carry-out. The secret Rotary chili recipe is guarded by event chairman Dennis Wilson. He says the recipe originated with the late Don Johnson, proprietor of DJ's Bar and Grill in Upper Alton. Members of the Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club prepare and serve the chili. The Chili Chowdown is held at Main Street United Methodist Church which affords ample parking, ease of egress, and plenty of room for diners. Tickets for the annual Chili Chowdown are available from any member of the Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club and will also be sold at the door. The annual event raises funds for local Rotary projects, including the annual scholarships given in conjunction

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COLLINSVILLE - IDOT Operations Engineer Joe Monroe has been out throughout the entire region today on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025, observing the various state routes. When interviewed in the late morning, he said while high-volume interstate routes are generally in good shape, ramps were at that time somewhat hazardous due to snow accumulation and ongoing weather conditions. Monroe noted that the heaviest snowfall was occurring in the southern part of the region, with varying accumulation levels reported to the north. “If you are driving defensively, you can get where you need to go,” he advised. Traffic levels are crucial, he said, when it is this cold because sufficient vehicles moving at adequate speeds can help prevent snow from accumulating on the roads. As of early Tuesday afternoon, Interstate 255 was in decent condition, with plowing efforts ongoing in areas such as Homer Adams Parkway in Alton, which experienced more significant snowpack compared to other routes, Monroe

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BELLEVILLE - As temperatures drop across the region, several Belleville-O'Fallon area facilities are stepping up to provide warming centers for individuals in need. These temporary facilities are designed to offer relief during extreme cold but do not serve as overnight shelters. In Belleville, the Main and West branches of the Belleville Public Library, as well as the Programs & Services for Older Persons (PSOP) and The Salvation Army, are designated warming sites. The Main Branch of the Belleville Public Library is located at 121 E. Washington St. and can be reached at 618-234-0441. The West Branch is situated at 3414 W. Main St., with a contact number of 618-233-4366. PSOP is located at 201 N. Church St. and can be contacted at 618-234-4410. The Salvation Army operates from 20 Glory Place and is available at 618-235-7378. Fairview Heights also has resources available, with the Fairview Heights Public Library located at 10017 Bunkum Road. The library's hours are Monday through

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ALTON - Community members are invited to the new Riverbend Community Orchestra’s upcoming performance. At 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, Riverbend Community Orchestra (RCO) will perform at Calvary Baptist Church in Alton. The concert is free and will feature selections from musicals like “The Sound of Music,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “West Side Story” and more. Jamie Pullen, President of Alton Youth Symphony (AYS), explained that AYS piloted the creation of RCO a few months ago. AYS directors realized there was a “gap” between AYS, which is for fifth through eighth graders, and the more challenging repertoire of the Alton Symphony Orchestra (ASO) for adults. They created RCO so that high schoolers without an orchestra program available to them, as well as community members who want to play music but aren’t ready for ASO, have an option. “It's fulfilling a lot of different needs,” Pullen said. “Thi

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RIVERBEND - With dropping temperatures and highs forecasted in the teens over the next few days, there are several warming centers available for community members throughout the Riverbend region. We encourage you to check that these locations are open, as some might be closed due to inclement weather. ALTON Hayner Public Library District With branches located at 326 Belle Street in downtown Alton and the Alton Square Mall, the library serves as a daytime warming center during its open hours. The Salvation Army Located at 525 Alby Street in Alton, The Salvation Army is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. The organization sometimes stays open later on cold days. Snacks and occasionally meals are available. The Overnight Warming Location In Alton, the Overnight Warming Location is located at Deliverance Temple at 1125 E. 6th Street. The OWL opens from 5 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. when temperatures are forecasted to drop to 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Guests receive

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EDWARDSVILLE – An Edwardsville resident faces major felony charges after firing a weapon 35 times into an occupied vehicle during an armed robbery. Christopher L. Haug, 34, of Edwardsville, was charged on Feb. 18, 2025, with attempted first degree murder (a Class X felony), armed robbery (a Class X felony), aggravated discharge of a firearm (a Class 1 felony) and felon in possession of a weapon (a Class 2 felony). On Feb. 16, 2025, Haug allegedly “fired over 35 rounds of ammunition” into an occupied vehicle with the intent of killing the occupant. He also reportedly stole a purse, its contents, and an iPhone from the same victim, discharging the firearm while committing the robbery. The firearm used in this case is described in court documents as a “5.56 caliber rifle.” Haug’s possession of the weapon was unlawful as a felon previously convicted of armed robbery in a 2017 Madison County case. A petition filed to deny Haug’s pretrial release

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ST. LOUIS — The National Weather Service (NWS) is forecasting some additional snow on Tuesday evening, Feb. 18, 2025, but it is expected to taper off by early morning on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. Jayson Gosselin, a meteorologist at the NWS in St. Louis, indicated that the NWS anticipates a lull in precipitation until approximately evening on Tuesday, continuing until about 2 a.m. on Wednesday. Snowfall amounts are projected to range from 1 to 3 inches in the region. A tighter gradient is noted: areas closer to Alton may see around 1 inch, while Gosselin said the Waterloo area could receive up to 3 inches. Temperatures in the region are expected to remain extremely cold, with overnight lows projected to be between 5 and 10 degrees above zero. Gosselin cautioned that the frigid conditions may hinder some road treatment efforts, making for difficult travel conditions early Wednesday morning, Feb. 19, 2025. Lydia JaJa, another meteorologist at the St. Louis NWS, was contacted at

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ST. LOUIS - City officials in St. Louis reported the death of an unhoused woman found Tuesday morning on Clark Avenue. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and emergency medical services responded to a call at the location, where the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. A high of only 14 degrees is predicted for Tuesday with a low of 9 degrees. On Wednesday, highs are only expected to reach 18 degrees with a low of 2 degrees. According to a statement from Mayor Tishaura Jones' office, foul play is not suspected in the incident. An official cause of death will be determined by a medical examiner. The statement expressed condolences, saying, “Our thoughts are with her and her loved ones…Last night, excess City-funded beds were available to accommodate unhoused individuals, and the City of St. Louis Department of Human Services and shelter providers will continue to work together to ensure that we can fill as many inclement weather shelter beds as possible in th

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VENICE – Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski and Congressman Wesley Bell are set to meet with the Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis and Bi-State Development on at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the Venice Rail Yard. Those gathered will discuss proposed bi-state infrastructure projects in the St. Louis Metro Area. The meeting will take place at the Venice Rail Yard located at 1201 McKinley. This gathering comes at a pivotal moment as the region faces challenges regarding infrastructure funding. The Department of Transportation's recent decision to pause funding and implement new guidelines has raised concerns among local leaders. These guidelines prioritize funding for communities with higher birth and marriage rates, potentially affecting the Metro East region’s access to vital infrastructure investments, Rep. Budzinski said. Congresswoman Budzinski has previously expressed her support for the proposed projects, which have not yet secured the necessary

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ALTON - The “What’s Up Downtown” meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025, has been postponed due to inclement weather. The quarterly What’s Up Downtown meetings invite business owners and stakeholders in the downtown Alton district to speak about their work in the community. Hosted by Alton Main Street, the information exchange allow speakers and audience members to promote their businesses, organizations and nonprofits. The Winter 2025 meeting will feature Chantel Morrigan with Jacoby Arts Center, Megan Tyler with Sacred Spaces of CARE, and Father Garron Daniels with St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. What’s Up Downtown meetings are held at the iMerge Community Center in downtown Alton. The other dates for 2025 meetings are May 20, Aug. 19 and Nov. 18, 2025. More details about the Winter 2025 What’s Up Downtown meeting, including an updated date and time, will be released soon. For more information, visit the official Facebook even

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