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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Congressman David Valadao (CA-22), Congressman Gerry Connolly (VA-11), and Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) announced the reintroduction of the Federal Retirement Fairness Act, bipartisan legislation to address a gap for federal employees who began their careers as temporary workers and were thus unable to make retirement contributions. The Federal Retirement Fairness Act will allow these workers to make catch-up contributions to ensure they can retire as planned. In the absence of this provision, many face an unfair choice: exit the federal service without complete retirement benefits or delay retirement to achieve full benefits. “Federal workers keep America running and these dedicated public servants deserve to retire with dignity,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “However, many federal workers – like postal employees – got their start in “non-career” roles that do not count

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CHICAGO - The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC), the state’s college access and financial aid agency, has contracted leading global education company Kaplan to provide free test preparation courses to all students enrolled in Illinois’ public universities. Five Illinois community colleges are also included as part of a pilot program. Students at these institutions will have free access to Kaplan’s best-in-class preparation for professional licensing exams, graduate-level admissions exams, and credential exams, including comprehensive prep for the GRE®, GMAT®, LSAT®, MCAT®, NCLEX-RN®, USMLE®, Illinois State bar exam, real estate and securities exams, and more. They will also have access to a suite of professional and academic skills development courses from Kaplan. “Providing free test and licensing preparation courses for students is an important measure to help remove some of the financial barriers students face in advancing

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ALTON - Community members came out to the YWCA to speak one-on-one with Alton’s candidates ahead of the April 1, 2025, consolidated election. On Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, the YWCA and National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) hosted a Coffee with Candidates event that allowed community members to meet Alton’s mayoral, aldermanic, City Clerk and treasurer candidates. Attendees could chat with the candidates about their platforms and ask specific questions about issues affecting them. “We definitely want everybody to vote, but we want you to be educated,” explained Tanjela Johnson, president of NCNW. “We know a lot of people will hear Republican, Democrat, Independent, but we want you to be educated on what each candidate is standing for, what you’re voting for…We want you to be able to have conversations. Rather than being a debate, have conversations with the people that are running. Have those personal conversations and let the citizens ge

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EAST ST. LOUIS – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced lane restrictions will be encountered on Thursday, February 27 on the eastbound I-55/64 Poplar Street Bridge in East St. Louis, weather permitting. The eastbound center lane will be closed from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to repair the center attenuator. IDOT District 8 Operations crews will make the needed improvements and restore full access as soon as possible. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the 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 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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COLLINSVILLE — John Proffitt, a long-time advocate for Special Olympics, made his 17th plunge into Carlyle Lake on Saturday, February 22, 2025. Proffitt, who serves as the Crime Free Multi-Housing Coordinator for the Collinsville Police Department, has dedicated much of his life to public service, particularly in support of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Proffitt’s involvement with Special Olympics extends beyond the annual plunges. He has held various roles within the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run, including serving as a State Committee Member representing Leg 4/Region J, which encompasses the Metro East area. His commitment to the organization has been recognized through multiple awards, including the Flame of Hope Award in 2016 and the title of Leg 4 Officer of the Year in 2019. "John does not do any of this for the awards and recognition," a representative from the Collinsville Police Department said. "He is a man truly deserving of

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GRANITE CITY – 1st MidAmerica Credit Union announced its nine recipients of the Granite City Community Unit School District #9 Teacher Grants for the 2024 Fall Semester at the February 25 GCSD9 School Board Meeting. 1st MidAmerica Credit Union President/CEO Alan Meyer, Chief Experience Officer Amber Scott and Business Development Representative Martha Morse presented each honoree with a $250 grant. Below is a list of the nine honorees and how the $250 grant will be used: Allison Downing - Mitchell 3rd & 4th Grade • Bi-Lingual education tablets and portable translator device for non-English speaking students Jessica Farris - Prather Kindergarten • S.T.E.M. Kits Tiffany Kahn - Mitchell 3rd Grade • Chromebook Charging Station Kay Lanfersieck - Prather Kindergarten • Sensory Bins for Special Education classes Patrick McBride - Mitchell 3rd Grade • Chromebook Charging Station and extra chargers Tracy Noud - Frohardt/Mitchell

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EDWARDSVILLE - How many points are the Queen worth? Can the Pawn move backwards? What happens when you capture the King? These questions are answered in swift succession by Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center’s Project Success students. They have been taking chess lessons from Phillip Berry, 40 Days of Nonviolence and Beyond staff member and longtime chess coach. Chess lessons are one of the activities provided during the project that began Jan. 28 and will conclude on March 4. SIUE is one of many partners working with the 40 Days of Nonviolence and Beyond committee in its ongoing mission to deter and ultimately eliminate violence in the East St. Louis area. “Chess is a strategy game. It’s one of the oldest games known to man, and the purpose is to capture the king on the other side,” said Berry, owner of his company, Chess for Change. “You have to learn strategic thinking, critical thinking and pattern recognition.”

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EDWARDSVILLE - Patrick King has been officially sworn in as a Circuit Judge in the Third Judicial Circuit at the Madison County Courthouse in Edwardsville. The ceremony was attended by notable figures including Monsignor David Hoefler, who offered a prayer, as well as other clergy members Father Steven Janoski, Father Stephen Pohlman, and Father Jeff Goeckner. King’s appointment marks a significant transition in his career, moving from his previous role as a mediator and attorney at MillerKing LLC, where he practiced civil litigation, personal injury, and mediation since 2017. He has also served as a Guardian Ad Litem and has experience in various areas of law including criminal defense and estate planning. In his new position, King will preside over cases in Madison County, where he is expected to bring his extensive legal background to the bench. His experience in mediation, which he practiced from 2020 to 2025, may influence his approach to resolving disputes in court. Th

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Did you know that over 35% of American households engage in gardening activities? As spring approaches, many of these households will eagerly dig into their gardens, creating spaces that not only enhance their homes but also provide fresh produce, flowers, and a sense of tranquility. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious novice, preparing for your spring garden can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. With the right strategies, you can cultivate a thriving garden that bursts into life when the warmer months arrive. Assessing Your Space Before you plunge into planting, it’s essential to evaluate your gardening space. Every plot of land has its unique characteristics, which can influence your gardening choices significantly. Sunlight and Shade : Observe how sunlight interacts with your garden throughout the day. Most flowering plants and vegetables need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. If your yard has shaded areas, consider shade-tolerant plants like

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February 26th has witnessed some remarkable events throughout history, shaping the world in various ways. Moving back in time, let's revisit February 26, 1979, when the first successful test of the Space Shuttle took place. NASA’s Space Shuttle program was a monumental leap in space exploration, allowing for reusable spacecraft that could support missions in low Earth orbit. This pioneering event laid the groundwork for many future missions and contributed to the construction of the International Space Station, showcasing human ingenuity and the quest for knowledge beyond our planet. On February 26, 1993, the world witnessed a tragic event that shook the United States: the first bombing of the World Trade Center in New York City. A truck bomb exploded in the underground garage of the North Tower, killing six people and injuring over a thousand. This act of terrorism highlighted vulnerabilities in national security and prompted significant changes in U.S. counter-terrorism

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EDWARDSVILLE - State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) is pleased to announce the return of her Traveling Office Hours for March. “I’m excited to bring back our Traveling Office Hours for 2025,” said Senator Harriss. “These events have been a great way to connect with residents across the district, and my team and I are committed to making government more accessible. Whether you have a question, need assistance, or just want to share your thoughts, we’re here to help.” Staff will be on hand to help constituents with any state issues they may have. Traveling Office Hours for March are scheduled as follows: Tuesday, March 4, 2025 Hayner Public Library 132 Alton Square, Alton 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. East Alton Library 250 Washington Avenue, East Alton 1-3 p.m. Tuesday, March 11, 2025 Wood River Public Library 326 E Ferguson Avenue, Wood River 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Bethalto Public Library 321 S. Prairie Street, Bethalto

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ST. LOUIS - The American Red Cross of Greater St. Louis is helping to bridge access to health care for blood donors by providing free A1C testing, commonly used to screen for diabetes and prediabetes, on all successful blood, platelet and plasma donations in March. One-third of people lack access to regular primary care in the U.S., where diabetes affects 1 in 10 people and nearly a quarter of those living with it have been undiagnosed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The free A1C screening aims to help address this gap by empowering blood donors with valuable information to maintain their health and well-being. This new offering is among the longtime work of the Red Cross to support the health of communities, which also includes disaster relief efforts such as basic disaster health and mental health services among other assistance. Visit RedCrossBlood.org , use the Red Cross Blood Donor App or call 1-800-RED CROSS to book a time to give in March

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GLEN CARBON – Major upgrades are coming to Schon Park in Glen Carbon following Village Board approval of a $260,000 agreement, putting the next phase of park improvements in motion. Phase 3 improvements include four pickleball courts, two tennis courts, two basketball courts, and a series of connecting paths, as shown in a site improvement plan from TWM, Inc. Work to be completed in future phases includes new pavillions, a soccer field, a fitness court, a new maintenance building, and a multi-purpose path. Public Works Director Scott Slemer said at Tuesday’s Village Board meeting he estimates construction on Phase 3 will begin in October of 2025. Trustees unanimously approved a $260,000 agreement with TWM, Inc. to perform engineering services for the Schon Park Phase 3 project. The full scope of the agreement includes design and construction engineering, bidding, permitting and review, grant application, and grant administration. Glen Carbon was recently awarded

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CAHOKIA HEIGHTS — The Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis is investigating a shooting that occurred on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, in the 100 block of Lazarcheff in Cahokia Heights, which has now resulted in the death of a 15-year-old boy. Charles E. Jones succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. Since the shooting, detectives have pursued more than 60 leads, according to Sgt. Andrew Pierson, public information officer for the Major Case Squad. “Persons of interest have developed, and some individuals are in custody,” he said. However, he emphasized that the investigation remains active and that no further details regarding names or potential charges will be disclosed at this time. The findings will ultimately be presented to the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office for review. Pierson urged anyone with information related to the case to come forward, reinforcing the importance of community assistance in ongoing investigations. Tips

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Edwardsville Rotary Club has chosen to honor Edwardsville High School student Lincoln Alwardt with the Student of the Month Award for February. Lincoln was nominated by Edwardsville High School teacher Sean Saylor. Lincoln is the son of Tony and Randi Kay Alwardt. He is 17 years old and attends Edwardsville High School. Academically, Lincoln shines at school and is also a member of both the National Honor Society and the Science National Honors Society. He has also been recognized as an Illinois State Scholar. Athletically, Lincoln plays soccer for both Edwardsville High School Boys Varsity Soccer and Glen Ed. He has received one of the EHS Boys Varsity Soccer Team MVP awards, along with the IHSSCA All-Sectional Sportsmanship Award for soccer. Outside of school, Lincoln enjoys playing soccer, weightlifting, and gold. He is also an active member of St. John’s United Church of Christ of Midway. In the future, Lincoln plans to major in Data Science and work

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ALTON - Payton Crane , currently a senior at Marquette Catholic High School, has been named an Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club Student Of The Month. She is the youngest daughter of Josh and Kristina Crane. She would like to thank the staff at Marquette and the Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club for granting her the opportunities that have led her to receive this award. Academically, Payton has excelled in many different ways. Her academic achievements include achieving high honor roll every semester, which has her on track to graduate with a 5.0 weighted GPA on a 4.0 scale and nearly 40 dual credit hours, receiving the prestigious Silver Medallion Award, which is only granted to the top 8% of graduating seniors, and being named an Illinois State Scholar, an honor given based on GPA, ACT or SAT scores, and class rank and size. On Payton’s first try, she received a 30 on her ACT, and she is currently second in the class, with a 4.84 GPA. As for extracurricular activities, Payton has been involved

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ALTON - David Reese of Alton High School has been selected as February’s Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club Student of the Month. David is the son of Chad (Krista) Reese and Holly Marcum (Tim Borman). David is a senior at Alton High School. He plays varsity tennis for Alton High and also leads the student section as a Redbird Nest Leader. During his high school career, David has also been a member of the Alton High Trap Club, Pickleball Club, Physics Club. David currently holds a cumulative 3.75 GPA, and earned a 4.1 GPA last semester, earning him high honor roll at Alton High School and Dean’s list at Lewis & Clark Community College. By the time David graduates, he will have taken 12 honors courses and achieved 42 college credit hours. While at Alton High School, David found his passion for architecture. He has completed every class available in that field that the school has to offer and credits Mr. Goetten for being such a mentor to him and his career plans. In 2024, David won

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GRAFTON - The Grafton Art Gallery will host a meet-and-greet ahead of a new “Drawing for Serious Fun” class. From 1–3 p.m. on Saturday, March 1, 2025, community members are invited to the Grafton Art Gallery at 301 E. Main Street in Grafton for a no-obligation informative meeting about the upcoming drawing classes. Taught by Don Mathenia, the classes are open to adults at any level to enjoy. “With this class, I’m sure I’ll have people there who I will learn from,” Mathenia said. “I want to learn from people too. Art is never something that’s totally static, never. If it gets to be that, it’s not art anymore.” The “Drawing for Serious Fun” classes will start on March 10, 2025, and will be held on Mondays and Thursdays. During the meet-and-greet on March 1, Mathenia and Grafton Art Gallery owner Gene Smith will poll attendees to decide what time is best for the classes. They look forward to meeting

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WOOD RIVER - A fire in a locomotive on the Norfolk Southern railroad tracks just north of West Ferguson in Wood River in the afternoon on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, and captured the attention of local emergency crews. The incident occurred when a fire broke out in the main DC power system of the train. Wood River Fire Chief Wade Stahlhut confirmed that the fire was contained to the engine. Firefighter crews from Wood River, East Alton and Roxana responded to the scene, where they successfully isolated power through an emergency shutdown before firefighters approached the situation. “I am always proud of them,” Chief Stahlhut said regarding the firefighters' response. “They work extremely hard being prepared for a unique type of incident and knowing hazards mitigated before putting the fire out was huge.” The incident took place on the old BP property near West Ferguson, and firefighters were able to extinguish the flames quickly. As of now, the cause of the fire

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EAST ALTON - Community members are invited to participate in a head-shaving event aimed at raising funds for 3-year-old Rory Guss, who was diagnosed with leukemia. The event, titled "Brave the Shave for Rory Faye," is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 2 p.m. at Don's No Man's Land at 610 E. St. Louis Ave., East Alton. Rory, currently in remission, will continue her chemotherapy treatments for the next two years. Organizers hope to gather support for the Guss family as they navigate the challenges of Rory's ongoing treatment. The event is being held in partnership with All About U Hair Salon in East Alton. While there is no entry fee to participate, attendees are encouraged to fundraise in advance of the event. Those interested in taking part in the head-shaving challenge can register by contacting Abbey or Kathy at (618) 581-9789 for Kathy. For those unable to participate in the shaving, organizers welcome the community to attend and cheer on the volunteers. All proceeds will

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