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GLEN CARBON – State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) is proud to announce that more than $17,000 in state-funded library grants have been awarded to public school libraries throughout the 56th Senate District. These grants aim to enhance educational and research opportunities for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. “This funding is a direct investment in our students' academic success and personal growth,” said Senator Harriss. “I’m glad to see this investment in our local schools, giving students access to the tools and technology they need to thrive in and beyond the classroom.” The annual Library Grant Program, administered by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office, supports the development of school library services by funding resources such as books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology, and educational programs. The following school districts in the 56th Senate District have been

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JACKSONVILLE – Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and local leaders in Jacksonville today to announce state-funded grant awards totaling $30 million for 25 grantees through the Rebuild Illinois Downtowns and Main Streets (RDMS, $20 million) and Research in Illinois to Spur Economic Recovery (RISE, $10 million) programs to revitalize commercial corridors and downtown areas throughout the state and accelerate local economic initiatives. “As Governor, one of my top priorities is to reverse decades of neglect and broken promises and bring jobs, opportunity, and hope back to communities across Illinois, while breathing new life into our downtown corridors and beyond,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This program will directly support 25 communities across the state by funding critical community development projects, housing and infrastructure all while revitalizing commercial corridors.” "These investments

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SPRINGFIELD – Annually, Illinois adds more than 100 new, active Tier 2 chemical facilities and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) tracks each one of them. “We monitor stored chemicals as well as all reports of releases or spills,” explained IEMA-OHS Interim Director Adnan Khayyat during Hazardous Materials Safety Month. “We should all be familiar with the chemicals that are used near us by more than 9,000 active facilities,” IEMA-OHS Interim Director Khayyat continued. “These chemicals could be used every day as detergents, fuels, medicines, and more and IEMA-OHS is prepared for any incident that involves these chemicals.” IEMA also works with Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs), first responders, and emergency managers to inform the public about hazardous materials located at more than 8,800 active chemical facilities throughout Illinois. It addition, it partners with the Illinois Fir

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SPRINGFIELD – With construction ramping up across the state, the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police, Illinois Tollway, industry partners, local agencies and frontline construction workers today teamed up for National Work Zone Awareness Week to remind the public to “Respect the zone so we all get home.” “Whatever the mode of transportation, we will all be traveling through work zones over the upcoming weeks and months,” said Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “The people you see working on our roads, on equipment, or behind the cones and barricades are someone’s loved one, a friend, a neighbor, part of our community. Working together, we can ensure their safety and yours. Let’s make this the safest construction season ever in Illinois.”

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COLLINSVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced lane restrictions will be encountered on northbound I-55/70 at the exit to IL 157 Collinsville/Edwardsville exit (Exit 11) beginning Wednesday, April 23, 2025, weather permitting. The left lane on NB I-55/70 and the NB entrance ramp from IL 157 will be closed to allow IDOT District 8 Operations forces to perform emergency bridge deck patching on the bridge over IL 157. A detour will be marked to assist travelers to access NB I-55/70 from IL 157. The NB I-55/70 Exit Ramp to IL 157 will remain open during construction. All lanes are expected to re-open by 3:30 p.m. on Friday, April 25. 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

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GODFREY - Godfrey officials are advising residents in advance of an upcoming stormwater management project by the Village Public Works Department that will briefly close a portion of Bethany Lane to replace/upgrade a stormwater drainage culvert. On Thursday, April 24, 2025 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bethany Lane will be closed between King Oaks Dr. and Mars Drive to replace/upgrade a stormwater drainage culvert. The detour for West bound traffic on Bethany will be to exit on to Mars Drive to Mercury Drive to N. Humbert. The detour route for traffic heading East on Bethany Lane going past King Oaks Drive will need to stay north bound on N. Humbert past Bethany Lane then turn on Mercury Drive then go to Mars Drive (to get back on Bethany Lane) for east bound traffic. Godfrey’s Public Safety Administrator, Chris Sichra informs that local first responder agencies and mutual aid partners (Fire, Police, EMS), as well as local bus companies and MCT, have already been notified of the

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TROY - Do you or will you have any open positions for students who are 15-18 years old? Remember, many of these students will be graduating in May and seeking employment. If this criteria fits your business, we encourage you to sign up for our Triad High School Job Fair, set for Thursday, May 1, 2025 at Triad High School. In just two hours, you will meet a wide array of Triad students! The link below will provide you with the registration application. There is no charge to participate and this event is only available for our Chamber members. This year we are also encouraging our members to sign up who provide services and/or resources for the students. This is a great opportunity to let the students know more about your business. This is something new we have added this year. Just another way to promote your business! http://www.troymaryvillecoc.com/form/view/25914

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BETHALTO - Ryne Breyer, senior at Civic Memorial High School is signing with Illinois College on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Civic Memorial. Ryne chose Illinois College for his nursing and Spanish degree over several others including Case Western Reserve University, Milliken, and Illinois Wesleyan. Ryne is an Illinois State Scholar, Silver Medallion Recipient, President of Spanish National Honor Society, student leader for Bethalto School District Special Olympics, recipient of the Phillips 66 Scholarship, and on track to be Salutatorian for the class of 2025. He has played tennis for Civic Memorial for four years and looks forward to continue playing at Illinois College.

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ALTON – CKA Foundation International Inc., a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to serving communities through holistic outreach and support services, is pleased to announce its relocation to Alton, Illinois as of January 2025. Originally founded in 2020, the organization is currently undergoing renovations at its newly donated facility and anticipates opening to the public in the near future. CKA Foundation exists to equip, uplift, and empower individuals and families by addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Its comprehensive services include: Life Training Programs : Practical guidance in areas such as personal leadership, goal setting, conflict resolution, time management, financial stewardship, and decision-making—all rooted in biblical principles. Biblical Studies & Discipleship : Faith-based classes and discussion groups that offer spiritual growth, encouragement, and a solid foundation for living a purpose-driven life. Fitness

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SPRINGFIELD - Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias kicked off the office’s multi-faceted “One Road. One Focus” public safety campaign that raises awareness about the dangers and consequences of distracted driving. The effort features: 1) a new video requirement for student drivers; 2) billboard ads to raise awareness; and 3) expanded distracted driving patrols. Geared toward younger drivers, the initiative coincides with Distracted Driving Awareness Month, observed every April to raise awareness and encourage safer driving practices. In 2023, nearly 3,300 people were killed and over 300,000 people were injured in car crashes involving distracted drivers, latest figures from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveal. “Despite understanding the dangers, people still give in to the temptation to pick up their phone while behind the wheel. This ‘intexticated driving’ is the drunk driving of our time and is 100 percent

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EDWARDSVILLE - Madison County’s law enforcement agencies, in cooperation with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, will operate a drop-off site for Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 26, 2025 in Edwardsville. Madison County State’s Attorney Thomas A. Haine, Sheriff Jeff Connor and Coroner Nick Novacich will be operating the drop-off site in coordination with the DEA. The drop-off site, open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., will be in the Madison County Administration Building’s back parking lot on Second Street in Edwardsville: Madison County Administration Building, 157 North Main Street, Edwardsville, IL 62025. Coroner Novacich said: “By reducing the number of prescription medications on our streets and in our homes, we are helping ensure these drugs don’t fall into the wrong hands. Properly disposing of unneeded and expired medications is a simple yet powerful way we can all contribute to making Madison County a safer place to live.”

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JERSEYVILLE - This Easter season, our students truly embodied the spirit of giving through our annual Shining Knight Program and Ronald McDonald Easter Project. In keeping with the Knights' pledge — “Be a Knight, Do it Right, We are Christlike, We are Respectful, We Care!” — our students went above and beyond in their efforts to serve others. Barbie McCormick, a first-grade teacher, said through generous cash donations of over $450 and an abundance of needed supplies — including coffee, paper plates, toiletries, and coloring books — "our school community was able to provide meaningful support to families staying at Ronald McDonald Houses. These gifts offered comfort and care when families needed it most." "In recognition of our students’ incredible efforts and Christlike service, the Catholic Booster Club (CBC) rewarded each student with a movie ticket to see Moana 2," she said. " We extend our heartfelt thanks to the CBC and Stadium Theater

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Police (ISP) continues to target vehicle theft, hijacking, and related violent crimes using grant funding from the Illinois Secretary of State Illinois Vehicle Hijacking and Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention and Insurance Verification Council. ISP was awarded a $10 million grant for the first fiscal year, and another $677,000 grant announced in June 2024. From January through March 2025, ISP missions resulted in the following: Vehicles recovered – stolen and/or hijacked 243 Stolen vehicle arrests 16 Hijacked vehicle arrests 18 Firearms seized as a result of stolen/hijacked vehicle recovery 7 Missions targeting stolen/hijacked vehicle recovery and related violent crime 39 K9 used for stolen/hijacked vehicle recovery and related violence crime 16 Air Operations targeting stolen/hijacked vehicle recovery and related violent crime 39 Forensic laboratory assignments related to stolen/hijacked

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SPRINGFIELD - Established in 1987 by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), Alcohol Awareness Month has become a way for the community to support those effected by or dealing with Alcoholism. Alcohol Awareness Month aims to raise awareness about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption through activities, events, educational materials, and conversations to create effective strategies for preventing alcohol-related problems and reduce the stigma surrounding addiction. The goal is to reduce the stigma associated with alcohol-related problems and facilitate effective solutions for individuals and the public. Whether it is underage drinking prevention, an alcohol intervention for family or friends, or someone finally ready to take the steps to recovery, below are ways you can support. Things you can do to support: Get informed about the dangers of excessive alcohol use Advocate for healthy coping and lifestyle alternatives Encourage early intervention

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BELLEVILLE – Illinois American Water is highlighting National Work Zone Awareness Week, an annual campaign that promotes safe driving in highway work zones from April 21-25, 2025. “At Illinois American Water, our teams and contractors work daily in and around roadways to help ensure reliable service for our customers,” said Rebecca Losli, President, Illinois American Water. “While safety remains a priority, work zones can pose serious risks. National Work Zone Awareness Week emphasizes our shared responsibility to keep roads and workers safe. When you slow down and stay alert in work zones, you're helping protect lives, including your own.” Illinois American Water invests over $250 million into its infrastructure annually. Whether it’s water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades or routine maintenance and cleaning, Illinois American Water’s top priority is keeping crews and motorists safe. Illinois American Water provides these simple

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FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS - Amber Hopkins, an administrative assistant with the Fairview Heights Police Department, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board Executive Institute Women in Criminal Justice Blue Line Dedication Award. The award honors women who demonstrate unwavering dedication and exceptional service to their communities. Hopkins, a 20-year member of the Fairview Heights Police Department, currently serves as the administrative assistant to the chief of police and supports the entire command staff. Her career began as a 911 telecommunicator before transitioning to her current role. Beyond her administrative duties, Hopkins has taken on multiple additional responsibilities, including leading community programs such as the Youth Academy, Volunteer Program, RAD Training, Citizens and Senior Academy, and hosting MTU and SILEC classes and other community events. Chief of Police John Smith described Hopkins as “a true leader

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WHITE HALL – A sex offender from White Hall faces a felony after failing to register his new Jersey County address with authorities. Louis W. Hill, 59, of White Hall, was charged on April 16, 2025 with unlawful failure to register as a sex offender, a Class 3 felony. On April 12, 2025, Hill allegedly failed to register with the Jersey County Sheriff’s Department within three days of establishing a residence within Jersey County, as legally required under the Child Sex Offender Registration Act. Hill was granted pretrial release from custody and was issued a notice to appear at the Jersey County Courthouse on April 29, 2025. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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COTTAGE HILLS – A man from Cottage Hills faces multiple felonies after stealing over $10,000 through a wire fraud scheme for more than two years. Adam J. Lucas, 35, of Cottage Hills, was charged on April 17, 2025 with two counts of theft (both Class 2 felonies) and one count of wire fraud (a Class 3 felony). From March 1, 2022 to June 30, 2024, Lucas allegedly committed a “series of acts” which allowed him to steal over $10,000 from the victim, which was knowingly “obtained by deception.” The charge of wire fraud states Lucas “knowingly devised and intended to devise a scheme … to obtain money and property by means of false pretenses,” causing the victim to send money from within the State of Illinois via wire in furtherance of the scheme. Lucas was arrested by the Pontoon Beach Police Department and has been granted pretrial release from custody. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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ALTON - Richard Baird, Jr., is a person who will live on in the annals of time in the Alton area and will not be forgotten for his boundless acts of community service. Richard died on April 19, 2025, after a long battle with liver complications. Known locally as "the Voice of the Redbirds," Baird was the public address announcer for most Alton Redbirds home sporting events, including football, basketball, baseball, soccer and track. His presence was still heard at the girls' track and field meet hosted by Alton last week, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the school and community until the end of his life. Baird graduated from Alton Senior High School in 1971 and was a member of the school’s undefeated football team that year. He later arranged a display case at the school commemorating that historic season and helped found the Alton High School Wall of Fame. A Navy veteran, Baird served in Vietnam in the sonar division aboard the USS Towers DDG9, spending much of his

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GLEN CARBON — A moving candlelight vigil was held Monday night, April 21, 2025, to honor the memory of Brandon Ahring, a 22-year-old assistant track and field coach at Father McGivney Catholic High School. Ahring, also a McGivney graduate and cross-country and track participant, died last week in a car crash on Interstate 55 near Hamel. A large gathering of students, faculty, family members and community supporters turned out and poured out love and prayer to remember Ahring and offer support to his loved ones. Ahring, a 2021 graduate of Father McGivney, was returning home from track and field practice on April 16, 2025, when the fatal accident occurred. He had been serving as an assistant coach under head Coach Jim Helton for the past three years, working closely with student-athletes. He inspired the student athletes with his quiet strength and kindness. One McGivney student, also a member of the track and field team, came up with a brief message that perfectly described

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