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CHICAGO - Ahead of the 2025 tax season, the state of Illinois announced its participation in the IRS Direct File program. This will allow millions of eligible Illinoisans to file their taxes directly with the IRS, in a free and simplified system. Sarah Saheb, Director of Economic Security Illinois, an affiliate of Economic Security Project, a leading advocate for IRS Direct File nationally and in Illinois, released the following statement: “Direct File will save eligible Illinoisans up to $725 million and alleviate the stress and complexity of tax season for families across the state. This is a commonsense tool that will make filing taxes easier than ever before and put money back in people’s pockets all while saving the government money. We applaud Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Revenue, and all stakeholders who helped make this possible. As Illinoisans prepare to file their 2025 taxes, we encourage all who are eligible to utilize this completely free

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SPRINGFIELD - In partnership with the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS), Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias presented the 2nd annual John Lewis Youth Leadership Award (JLYLA) to 21-year-old Ivoryana Neal and 23-year-old Anthony Ray Wright Jr. “It’s wonderful to honor the impact of the late Congressman Lewis by recognizing two incredible young Illinoisans for their significant service to our communities,” Giannoulias said. “Ivoryana and Anthony are truly carrying out the spirit of Congressman Lewis’ legacy.” Neal, a Bellwood native and a December 2024 graduate of Spelman College, is passionate about criminal justice reform and has helped educate peers on the need for more re-entry support for formerly incarcerated individuals and their families. Neal’s firsthand experiences interning with the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office in Atlanta and with the Broadview, Illinois, police department have informed her call

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SPRINGFIELD - A severe ice storm wreaked havoc on large parts of southern Illinois earlier this week, closing schools and leaving thousands without power. In response, Comptroller Susana Mendoza Thursday issued payments totaling more than $17.7 million dollars earlier than originally planned. This comes at the request of Senator Dale Fowler, R-Harrisburg who informed the Comptroller of the dire circumstances facing southern Illinois. The bulk of that, $16.7 million, is Illinois State Board of Education mandated categorical grants to elementary and secondary schools in the region. Most schools were forced to close and will not reopen until at least next week. Thursday’s infusion can help the schools with their cash flow as they make repairs. Additionally, 423 vouchers totaling nearly $1.1 million were paid out for things like ambulance services, local electric cooperatives, city and county services, and social service agencies. A full list is available here. “It’s

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ALTON – As the Executive Director of Alton Little Theater (ALT), I am deeply committed to ensuring that our organization remains a safe and welcoming space for everyone who steps through our doors. However, allegations of past misconduct have been brought concerning individuals formerly affiliated with the theater. Let me be clear: we take these allegations with the utmost seriousness. I want to assure the public that under my leadership, ALT will be a space where everyone feels safe to explore their passion for theater. Theater is about creating joy and fostering community and that is exactly what we will do. Eric Sykes Executive Director, Alton Little Theater

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ALTON - The local Piasa Palisades chapter of the Sierra Club will screen a special film at their upcoming monthly meeting. At 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, community members are invited to Old Bakery Beer Co. in Alton for a screening of “Water for Life,” a documentary that tells the story of three Indigenous leaders who fought for water resources in their communities. Christine Favilla, representative with the Sierra Club and a co-coordinator for the Three Rivers Project, emphasized the importance of talking about sustainability and water rights. “It has to do a lot with making that connection with humans and hoping that they see they have a connection to nature,” she explained. “The more people that we have connected to nature, hopefully the more we will be able to see it be sustained and conserved.” Favilla said that the Piasa Palisades chapter of the Sierra Club meets at Old Bakery Beer Co. once a month, but this is the first time

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ST. LOUIS - Law enforcement in Missouri has officially commenced for the Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law, which prohibits drivers from holding their phones while operating a vehicle. Many from the Alton, Edwardsville and Belleville areas drive across the river to Missouri on a daily basis for work and entertainment. The law, which went into effect in the summer of 2023, transitioned from an educational awareness phase to active enforcement on Jan. 1, 2024. Under the new regulation, officers are permitted to issue tickets to drivers who are found holding their phones. However, the law allows for the use of hands-free devices, such as Bluetooth or Apple Car Play. The Siddens-Bening law operates under secondary enforcement, meaning that drivers can only be ticketed for phone use if they are pulled over for another violation, such as speeding or reckless driving. Since the law's implementation, Missouri has reported a 5% reduction in deaths related to distracted driving, which

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BETHALTO — Ace Hardware of Bethalto has expressed gratitude to its customers for support in a recent fundraising initiative that benefited local organizations. The store, located at 1 Airway Court in Bethalto, collected donations through a register round-up campaign for The Community Hope Center and The Bethalto Spirit Christmas Village. Molly Mathias, the office manager at Ace Hardware, acknowledged the contributions of their patrons. “It is because of the generosity of our customers that we were able to present these two organizations with a donation check,” Mathias said. The initiative aimed to provide financial assistance to both organizations, enhancing their ability to serve the community during the holiday season. The donations collected reflect the commitment of the local business and its customers to support community efforts.

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ALTON — Alton, Illinois, has been named one of the "50 most charming small towns in America" by HGTV, a recognition that celebrates its unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage. The announcement was made as part of a broader initiative by the home improvement network aimed at highlighting small towns across the United States. Located at the confluence of Route 66 and the Great River Road, Alton is known for its striking limestone bluffs and is considered one of the premier locations in the country for viewing bald eagles. HGTV noted several historical highlights of Alton, including its role in American history as the site of the last debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas, as well as Lincoln's only duel. The town also played a vital role in the Underground Railroad during the Civil War, contributing to its rich and complex narrative. Alton is the hometown of Robert Wadlow, known as the World's Tallest Man at 8 feet 11.1 inche

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SPRINGFIELD - The public voting period for the Illinois state flag redesign contest has kicked off and will run through Feb. 14, 2025. Illinoisans can choose to vote for one of the Illinois Flag Commission’s Top 10 new designs, or one of three former flag designs, including the current one. “Now is the time to make your voice heard and I encourage folks to join the process by voting for the flag that they feel best represents our great state,” said Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, whose office will conduct the public vote. “The public feedback received during this period will help guide the General Assembly’s final decision on the future of our state’s flag later this year.” Public voting is available at www.ilsos.gov/stateflag . Participating Illinoisans can vote for: One of the Illinois Flag Commission’s Top 10 flag designs Retaining the existing state flag Or reinstating Illinois’ 1918 centennial flag

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CHICAGO - Today Governor JB Pritzker announced the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) will receive $43 million in federal funding for the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency’s (CREATE) 65th & Harlem Avenue rail project. The project will create an overpass for travel over Belt Railway of Chicago’s (BRC) tracks via 65th street each day, improving efficiency for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians in Chicago and neighboring Bedford Park, Summit, and Garfield Ridge, as well as allowing faster travel for freight trains heading into and out of BRC’s Clearing yard. “This sort of smart, people-focused infrastructure investment exemplifies the best in what federal/state funding partnerships can do—present a solution that will make the daily commutes of Chicagoans and their neighbors and the daily movement of freight more efficient, making everyone’s day a little easier,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I’m grateful

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SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Nutrient Research and Education Council (NREC) met in December and seated three new board members. They replace Cindy Skrukrud, Al Grosboll and Jeff Kirwan who are cycling off the NREC board of directors. Board members are appointed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture Director, Jerry Costello. Two environment organizations are represented among the newly seated members. Katie Garvey joins the board representing The Environmental Law & Policy Center. Garvey is a staff attorney located in the organization’s Chicago office and focuses on nutrient reduction strategies. Christina Favilla joins the board representing the Illinois Chapter of the Sierra Club. Favilla is based out of Sierra Club’s Alton, IL office, where she serves as the Three Rivers Project Co-Coordinator – concentrating on the confluence of the Missouri, Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. Also seated at the December meeting was Brent Pollard who represents Illinois

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ALTON — Senior Services Plus is excited to invite local seniors to an engaging and fun event, Speed Connections , on Friday, February 7th from 2-4 PM in the School House Grill. This will be Senior Services Plus' third time hosting the event. The event is designed specifically for adults ages 55 and older, offering a unique opportunity to meet new people and form lasting connections in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. For just $10 per ticket, participants will enjoy a series of timed conversations with fellow attendees, providing the chance to share stories, make new friends, and perhaps even spark a romantic connection. The event will take place in a casual, welcoming environment, where participants will rotate through timed intervals, giving everyone the opportunity to mingle and connect. Whether you’re looking for friendship or just want to meet new faces in the community, Speed Connections promises a fun and exciting experience. Spaces are limited, so don't

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EDWARDSVILLE — A local community is rallying to support Kate Baumgartner, the owner of Sacred Grounds Coffee, as she faces unexpected medical bills due to a difficult diagnosis. The fundraising effort , organized by Connie Fish, aims to alleviate the financial burden on Baumgartner, who has been a vital part of the Edwardsville community. The initiative comes after Baumgartner encountered significant medical expenses that have arisen despite her health insurance. According to Fish, the bills stem from a complex medical situation, which has left Baumgartner with higher costs than if she were uninsured. "These medical bills have not been born out of lack of health insurance or irresponsibility, but rather from tricky diagnosis, and gross shortfall in coverage for tests and treatments," Fish stated. Baumgartner is known for her commitment to the community, having hosted local art shows, live music nights, and contributed to various charity events and school fundraisers. "She

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CHICAGO - ? Today, Governor JB Pritzker announced Illinois as the winner of $114 million in competitive federal grant funding to support new electric vehicle charging stations across Illinois, including the Chicagoland area, Springfield, Metro East, and Quad Cities. The federal funds total $114 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation to build 14 truck charging hubs, adding to the statewide charging infrastructure. Illinois received the largest award, the second largest being $55 million. Governor Pritzker also announced $39 million in state funding to build 1,476 charging stations at 242 locations in Illinois, helping make access to charging more accessible across the state. The federal funding was awarded to two specific programs: $100 million for Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s project entitled Equitable Future-Ready Electrification Infrastructure for Green Heavy-duty Transportation (E-FREIGHT) and $14 million for the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus’

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ALTON - New felonies filed against a Wood River man include home invasion and more after breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s house and injuring the victim during a “physical confrontation.” Andrew R. Mercer, 28, of Wood River, was charged with two counts of home invasion (both Class X felonies), aggravated battery (a Class 3 felony) and criminal trespass to a residence (a Class 4 felony). On Jan. 4, 2025, Mercer allegedly entered an Alton residence without authority, knowing it to be occupied. He also reportedly used a knife to cut the victim’s finger. A petition was filed to deny Mercer’s pretrial release, stating “a physical confrontation ensued” after Mercer kicked in his ex-girlfriend’s front door. “Victim reported that they recently broke up and he entered her residence by force and went to the kitchen, obtaining a knife,” the petition states. “He then pushed her, insisting that she had lied to him about thei

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has approved four conditions to be added to the list of medical issues that may be treated with medical cannabis. The four newly approved conditions are endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and female orgasmic disorder. The approval by IDPH Director, Dr. Sameer Vohra, comes following a thorough review by the Medical Cannabis Advisory Board (MCAB) and IDPH staff. Under Illinois law, the Director reviews petition requests to add conditions to the approved list. The Director considers available scientific analysis and medical literature to determine whether medical cannabis would be an appropriate treatment for each condition. “Medical cannabis has been shown to offer an effective means of relief from a variety of debilitating medical conditions and symptoms,” said Vohra. “IDPH reviews petitions carefully using expert opinion and the most up to date evidence to make decisions that best

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BETHALTO - Bethalto Church of God has partnered with Refuge 4 Kids to provide a training on childhood trauma. On Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, the community is invited to Bethalto Church of God at 800 E. Bethalto Boulevard for a daylong training session with a focus on faith-based communities. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., attendees will learn about complex trauma, the effects that trauma can have on early childhood development, and how church leaders can support kids with trauma histories. “Bethalto Church of God is one of those churches that really has a heart for kids that are coming from hard places,” said Erin Bickle. “The more we can empower church leaders and people working with kids with the truth of how trauma truly impacts these children and how we can best care for them, it’s just going to strengthen those children.” Bickle, one of the trainers through Refuge, explained that Refuge provides support, counseling and community education about childhood

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HOLIDAY SHORES — Ashley and Connor Maedge, a newlywed couple from Holiday Shores, exchanged vows on Dec. 14, 2024, at Pere Marquette in Grafton in a ceremony that emphasized giving back to the community. Rather than traditional wedding gifts, they asked guests to bring toys for children that were donated to The Salvation Army in Alton. The couple, both veterans — Ashley served in the Navy and Connor in the Army — met after their military service while taking an introductory law class at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. They now reside in Madison County, where Ashley works as a data warehouse analyst for U.S. Bank, and Connor serves as a police officer in Fairview Heights. Ashley and Connor are definite Difference Makers in their community. Cassy Grey, of the Salvation Army in Alton, expressed her admiration for the couple's philanthropic gesture. “In all my years of officership, I have never experienced anything quite like this,” Grey said.

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ALTON – The Rotary Club of the Riverbend Alton/Godfrey recently awarded over $3,400 to local agencies that support children as part of 2024 grant funding from the local Rotary District 6460. Caritas Family Solutions, Oasis Women’s Center, Refuge and the Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto were the recipients, each submitting requests for financial support of special projects: Caritas Family Solutions : Providing comfort items, such as snacks, technology and sensory items, to youth being transferred from foster families to birth family visits, court dates, health evaluations, etc. Oasis Women’s Center : Providing an opportunity for the children staying at Oasis to shop for proper and safe footwear and new clothing. Refuge : Purchasing outdoor benches and supplies as part of art therapy to help foster collaboration and a sense of belonging. Boys & Girls Club of Bethalto : Securing supplies for healthy lifestyle education, focusing on good nutrition and healthy meal

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ST. LOUIS - Additional snowfall created hazardous travel conditions across the region on Friday, January 10, 2025, as meteorologists warned commuters to exercise caution during the morning and evening commute drives. Matt Pfalka, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in St. Louis, stated that snow began to overspread the area early Friday morning, with the potential for pockets of moderate snow to reduce visibility to less than one mile. Above is a gallery of photos from around the region on Friday from Edwardsville to Alton and Godfrey. Driving conditions earlier in the day were not easy for motorists because of the added snow. Pfalka issued a weather warning to remind residents to stay informed about weather conditions to prepare for potentially difficult travel as the winter weather unfolds with the evening commute ahead. While much of the snowfall has been light, Pfalka highlighted that the light, powdery nature of the snow combined with cold surfaces facilitated

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