Due to the potential weather this evening and into tomorrow morning, we will be adjusting tomorrow’s varsity baseball start time.

The varsity baseball game vs Brimfield/Elmwood will now start at 2:00 in Carthage

4 central Illinois community colleges generate $800 million in economic impact, support more than 10,000 jobs

GALESBURG — Sandburg, Spoon River College, Illinois Central College and Heartland Community College together generate $799.6 million in economic impact and support 10,464 jobs across the west central Illinois community college region, according to a new study.

The largest share of that impact, $645.6 million, comes from former students now working in the regional economy, earning more than they would without their credentials and spending those wages locally. The colleges’ own operations and capital spending account for another $130 million, while current students contribute $22.9 million through housing, food, transportation and other living expenses.

Regional workforce impact

The four colleges support one out of every 47 jobs in the region. Their day-to-day payroll and purchasing flow directly to local businesses, vendors and contractors, while capital projects put construction and infrastructure dollars to work across the 20-county area.

“Our colleges demonstrate the concrete value of continued investment in community colleges as a driver of workforce development, regional growth, and long-term opportunity for students and communities,” Sandburg President Dr. Seamus Reilly said. “From the broader perspective, we contribute to statewide economic growth and social benefits of added income and public and private sector savings. Our students are earning more and reinvesting by largely staying here in the communities we serve.”

Returns for students

Students who complete credentials at these colleges see an average 14.6 percent annual return on their educational investment compared to workers with only a high school diploma, after accounting for tuition and foregone wages. Those higher earnings add up over a career, and because most graduates stay in the area, that money goes right back into local businesses and communities.

“The study proves that this return from investing in education is greater than the 30-year average annual rate of return of the stock market. Those higher earnings add up over a lifetime,” Spoon River President Dr. Curt Oldfield said.  “Because most graduates stay in the area, that money goes right back into local businesses and communities.”

Statewide impact

A statewide economic impact study found that Illinois community colleges are a powerhouse of growth, contributing $27.2 billion annually to the Illinois economy (about 2.7% of the state’s gross product) and supporting 324,273 jobs (one in every 26) in the state.

“Illinois community colleges serve as economic drivers for our communities, generating value not only with our operations but furthering the investment in the students we serve,” Heartland President Keith Cornille said. “Our institutions bring jobs and growth to the community, but most importantly, our students generate higher earnings, which in turn helps our neighborhoods thrive.”

About the study

The economic impact analysis was conducted by Lightcast and commissioned by the Illinois Community College Board. It covers a 20-county region served by the four colleges, including Bureau, DeWitt, Ford, Fulton, Hancock, Henderson, Knox, Livingston, Logan, Marshall, Mason, McDonough, McLean, Mercer, Peoria, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, Warren and Woodford counties.

CARTHAGE CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING APRIL 14th, 2026

The Regular Meeting of the Carthage City Council was held Tuesday, April 14 th , 2026, at
City Hall, 538 Wabash Avenue. Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M.
Answering to roll call were Aldermen Smith, Roberts, Steinkamp, Long, Biondolino and
Walker. City Treasurer Pam Edris was also present.
A moment of silence was observed for the passing of former Alderman Randy Fleming.
Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to approve the regular
meeting minutes of March 24 th . All six Aldermen answered “aye” in approval.
Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to approve the special
meeting minutes of March 26 th . All six Aldermen answered “aye” in approval.
After discussion a motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Roberts to
approve the March budgetary report. All six Aldermen voted “yes”.
Mayor Smith reported to the Council that the Velvet Hanger is open and operating and
has fulfilled their requirements for the TIF Agreement so the City has paid them the
agreed upon amount. He also reported that the City will need to advertise for the Deputy
Clerk position that will be vacant after Alice retires.
Mayor Smith reported that there was some confusion about the reported contribution to
the Carthage Fireworks Fund. To clarify the City will be giving “up to” $10,000 as
needed to reach the desired goal for the Carthage Fireworks. The expected amount
needed should be much closer to $1,000.00.
Mayor Smith reported to the Council that W&S contracting has submitted a pay request
in the amount of $23,750.00 for work on the demolition of 6 residential properties. This
is 50% of the contract amount and he is almost done with the demolition of all six
properties.
Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to approve payment of
$23,750.00 to W&S contracting for the demolition of 6 residential properties. All six
Aldermen voted “yes”.
City Attorney Tom Hartzell reported on several delinquent properties.
Alderman Smith reported to the Council that the Fire Department will be holding a live
burn training on April 25 th . He also reported that the 2022 Police squad car had a brake
light switch go bad and it was replaced under warranty.

Alderman Smith reported to the Council that Chief Himan would like to send Officer
Bishop to a 40-hour Lead Homicide Investigator course. The training is free but the City
would be responsible for the travel expenses.
Motion was made by Alderman Smith, seconded by Walker to approve sending Officer
Bishop to Lead Homicide Investigator training. All six Aldermen voted “yes”.
Alderman Smith reported to the Council that a permission form has been submitted by
the Strawberry Strut Committee for the annual strawberry strut event on June 6 th .
Motion was made by Alderman Smith, seconded by Roberts to approve the strawberry
strut permission form. All six Aldermen answered “aye” in approval.
Alderman Biondolino reported to the Council that bids for the repairs to City Hall are due
on April 24 th .
After discussion a motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to pay the
March Bills. All six Aldermen voted “yes”.
Alderman Long reported to the Council that a pump failed at the Sewer plant. This was
replaced by a spare pump that was on hand. He also reported that the Street Department
has been working on potholes.
Motion to adjourn by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith at 8:01 PM
Respectfully submitted,

Scott Roberts
City Clerk

Rep. Norine Hammond - Legislation dealing with county board members given House approval

Legislation sponsored by State Representative Norine Hammond (R-Macomb) which addresses a conflict of interest that has been suggested concerning a county board member sitting on joint insurance pool board, although such a board is not-for-profit, has been approved in the Illinois House on a vote of 111-0.

04142026Hammond_HB3003

Under the Public Officer Prohibited Activities Act, county board members are prohibited from seeking other elected or appointed offices, however, there are a number of exceptions provided that are similar to Representative Hammond's bill.  

BBB Don  O Brien     with the Morning Brew

Rep. Norine Hammond - Hammond ovarian cancer legislation given unanimous approval in Illinois House

Even if treatment with chemotherapy is successful, many ovarian cancer patients may still see their cancer come back. This is called recurrence, and it can happen even when it seems like you’re in remission. Officials say it is difficult to think about the possibility of ovarian cancer returning, but today, there are options that can help you take action to help delay it.

State Representative Norine Hammond of Macomb has sponsored legislation in the Illinois House of Representatives to expand the scope of the ovarian cancer screenings.

04142026Hammond_HB4203 

House Bill 4203 provides that "surveillance tests for ovarian cancer" means all medically viable methods for the detection and diagnosis of ovarian cancer, including, but not limited to, ultrasounds, magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs), x-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and CA-125 blood test screenings 

Rep. Hammond's bill was approved in the House on a vote of 109-0 and now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Sandburg College- Community Classes and Tours with Dr Jodi

Nauvoo Community Picnic at the Purple Park  April 18th 2026 and Arbor Day and Museum City !!!!

The 250th Patriot  Ball is June 13th- Lets Celebrate America's 250 with dances from the each era, food and friends,

Dr Tom Grant and Kimberli Grant

The Independent Republican Emily Flynn has officially entered the November 3rd race for Hancock County Treasurer. Her announcement adds another name to the field as the campaign season continues.

Voters can listen on WCAZ to learn more about Emily Flynn and each candidate throughout the election season, with updates airing as new information becomes available.

Public transportation could be coming to Hancock County, and local leaders need your voice. Rebecca Williamson, Nauvoo Tourism Director, and Amy Graham with CIDC are asking all Hancock County residents to complete the Transportation Needs Assessment Survey.

A proposed route would include a loop connecting Nauvoo, Carthage, and  the  Hospital, giving residents, workers, seniors, and visitors new options for travel, appointments, and daily needs.

Your feedback will help determine what transportation options our communities need — from seniors and students to workers, families, and visitors.

 Deadline to complete the survey: April 24th

 Residents of Hancock County — your input matters.

Help shape the future of transportation in our county by filling out the survey today.

Reach out to Rebecca or Amy for more information or email   visitnauvoo.illinois@gmail.com

Rebecca Williamson  Nauvoo Toursim Director Easter  Pancake Breakfast and Easter Egg Hunt

50 employers to be at Sandburg Career Expo on April 8

GALESBURG — About 50 businesses and organizations will be on hand to meet with job seekers at the 34th annual Sandburg Career Expo from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. April 8 in the gymnasium on the Galesburg campus, 2400 Tom L. Wilson Blvd. 

The career expo is free and open to the public. Job seekers will have the opportunity to network with businesses and organizations from the region, explore career fields and learn about Sandburg’s programs of study. For more information, including a list of participating organizations, visit sandburg.edu/careerexpo. 

The following organizations are scheduled to participate in the career expo (subject to change): 

A-1 Medical Staffing

Advance Services

Advanced Medical Transport

Allure Health Care Services

Beacon of Hope Hospice

Caring Senior Service

Carl Sandburg College

Carle Health

Castor Home Nursing

CBI Bank & Trust

City of Galesburg Parks and Recreation

DD Homes

Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity

EverTrue Lutheran Hillside Village

Fastenal

G&M Distributors

Galesburg Area Officials Association

Galesburg Broadcasting Co.

Galesburg Fire Department

Galesburg Police Department

Graham Medical Group

Heritage Tractor

Hy-Vee

Illinois Department of Children and Family Services

Illinois Department of Corrections

Illinois Department of Public Health

Knox County 911 Dispatch

Knox County Health Department

Knox County Nursing Home

Knox County Sheriff's Office

Local 25 Plumbers & Pipefitters JATC

Local 91 

Lowe’s 

Mediacom Communications Corporation

MercyOne Medical Center

OSF HealthCare

Peoria Air National Guard

Safe Harbor Family Crisis Center

StaffQuick

Stone-Hayes Center for Independent Living

Tutera Senior Living

Two Rivers Regional Council

Uftring Auto Group 

Voorhees Siding and Windows

Warren Achievement Center

Warren County Sheriff's Office

Western Illinois Managed Home Services

Western Smokehouse Partners

Additional organizations may be represented the day of the event. For more information, contact Tracy Engstrom, coordinator of career development, at 309.341.5246 or tengstrom@sandburg.edu, or visit sandburg.edu/careerexpo.  

New engineering path available at Sandburg this fall

Sandburg designed a block of courses specifically for future engineers.

The college created a sequence of transferable courses, available starting in the upcoming fall semester, for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in engineering.

This new, four-course sequence includes foundational classes that form the core of transfer preparation for most engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering, civil engineering, aerospace engineering and other related areas. It’s intended to prepare students for a seamless transfer to bachelor’s-level programs after they complete their associate degree at Sandburg.

When taken alongside calculus and physics courses, this engineering sequence provides students with a strong, transfer-ready foundation. The track of courses includes:

• Introduction to Engineering (EGR 101)
• Engineering Design (CAD) (EGR 121)
• Statics (EGR 251)
• Dynamics (EGR 252)

“This is all about building momentum for the future for students interested in this area of study,” Dean of Transfer Michael Patilla said. “Engineering is a critical field, and we’ve intentionally designed a clear, transfer-ready pathway so students can move confidently into engineering programs and succeed at the next level.”

Enrollment for the 2026 fall semester at Sandburg opens April 6. To get started or learn more, contact the Admissions office at admissions@sandburg.edu or 309.345.3500, or visit sandburg.edu/enroll.

CARTHAGE CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING MARCH 26th, 2026

The Special Meeting of the Carthage City Council was held Thursday, March 26 th , 2026,
at City Hall, 538 Wabash Avenue. Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.
Answering to roll call were Aldermen Smith, Roberts, Steinkamp, Long, Biondolino and
Walker. City Treasurer Pam Edris was absent.
The Council discussed the possibility of contributing some money to the Fourth of July
fireworks display for the 250 th Anniversary.
Motion was made by Alderman Walker, seconded by Smith to approve contributing up to
$10,000.00 to the Fireworks display as needed. All six Aldermen voted “yes”.
The Council discussed raises for City personnel and including additional paid holidays to
the current personnel policy.
Motion to adjourn by Alderman Smith, seconded by Walker at 7:22 PM
Respectfully submitted,

Scott Roberts
City Clerk

Get ready for the most electrifying event of the year! The Tri-State Rodeo Operating Committee is thrilled to unveil the star-studded entertainment lineup for the 78th Annual Tri-State Rodeo, coming to Fort Madison, Iowa, September 9–12, 2026. This year’s celebration promises bigger thrills, world-class talent, and unforgettable nights you won’t want to miss.

Celebrated as one of the nation’s top five large outdoor rodeos since 2000, the Tri-State Rodeo made history with its induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2025. Get ready for electrifying action as the Tri-State Rodeo and the Jim Baier Chute Out bring the world’s most elite rodeo athletes to center stage!

Bobby Hotkamp, Chairman of the Tri-State Rodeo, shared, “Each year, we pull out all the stops to deliver an experience that’s bigger, bolder, and more thrilling than ever before. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time guest, 2026 promises the kind of excitement you’ll be talking about for years to come!”

Alongside four adrenaline-charged rodeo nights, the Tri-State Rodeo is turning up the excitement with four evenings of show-stopping national entertainment on the Great River Health Stage. And the party doesn’t stop there—each night will keep the energy soaring with electrifying live bands inside the Bud Light Stockyard!

Kicking off the excitement on Wednesday, September 9, the Tri-State Rodeo proudly welcomes chart-topping American country sensation, Niko Moon! His debut single, “Good Time,” shot straight to #1 on country radio, and his infectious, feel-good tracks keep climbing the charts, spreading positive vibes and unforgettable energy wherever they’re played. But Niko’s talents don’t stop at performing—he’s penned eight #1 hits and over 40 major cuts for superstars like Morgan Wallen, Avicii, Dierks Bentley, Pitbull, Zac Brown Band, Rascal Flatts, and more.

Headlining on Thursday, September 4, 2025, is Wynonna. Wynonna’s 1992 self-titled solo debut catapulted her to stardom, building on her legacy with The Judds. A five-time Grammy winner and multi-platinum artist, she’s become a powerhouse in American music. Her iconic hits—like “No One Else On Earth” and “I Saw The Light”—and her unforgettable voice have made Wynonna a true country superstar.

Friday, September 5, 2025, features Parker McCollum. Parker McCollum is a country music superstar known for his authentic sound and powerful performances. Named an ‘Artist to Watch’ by top industry outlets like Rolling Stone, Billboard, and CMT, he’s sold out major venues nationwide. McCollum’s award-winning hits—including “Burn It Down,” “Pretty Heart,” and “To Be Loved By You”—have earned him multiple ACM and CMA honors, cementing his status as one of country’s hottest artists.

The Great River Health Stage will close out on Saturday, September 6, 2025, with Brantley Gilbert. Brantley Gilbert, a pioneer of country’s rock-and-rap style, is a multi-Platinum, award-winning artist with over 8 billion streams and seven No. 1 hits, including “Bottoms Up” and “Country Must Be Country Wide.” Known for his fierce independence and high-energy shows, Gilbert has toured with legends and continues to shape the future of country music.

Every night explodes with a thrilling lineup of rodeo events, all brought to life by our legendary announcer, Boyd Polhamus. The excitement continues with the return of Cervi Championship Rodeo as our top-tier stock contractor, and we’re amping up the fun with John Harrison joining as our rodeo clown, Barrelman, and specialty act in 2026. Don’t miss the jaw-dropping finale on Friday and Saturday nights—a spectacular, sky-filling drone show lighting up the arena!

Keep the party going inside the Bud Light Stockyard, where four nights of unforgettable after-parties await! Dance the night away to high-energy performances by The Boys, Brody Vancil & the Burners, and two show-stopping nights with The Bobby Ford Band.

111 Chargers earn Academic All-Region 4 for fall semester

GALESBURG — Sandburg had 111 student-athletes earn Academic All-Region 4 awards from the 2025 fall semester.

To be eligible, student-athletes must have completed at least 12 credit hours and recorded a grade point average of at least 3.0.

All 11 Chargers teams had at least one representative. Baseball had the most of any team, with 31. Among women’s squads, cross country, basketball and softball each had 10.

Baseball
Colton Allen, Drey Anderson, Landon Binder, Tucker Bond, Braley Burford, Clayton Cawley, Carter Chapin, Elliott Copeland, Shane Correll, Jameson Dickerson, Dawson Fenton, Nathan Hill, Brady Johnson, Connor Johnson, Kellan Keane, Justin Keener, Kody Knecht, Ethan Krei, Griffen Landsverk, Dayton Lundstrom, Benjamin Marvel, Ayden Mendoza, Cruz Paredes, Drake Paul, Brady Peterson, Carter Ramsey, Owen Rigg, Damien Snell, Dillon Steelman, Tucker Vandewostine, Karter Wheeler

Men’s basketball
James Blackwell, Griffin Briles, Rylan Carton, Ashton Grieves, Larry Olivier, Lewis Siegfried

Women’s basketball
Abbie Ackers, Cameron Anderson, Lajaya Angel, Camryn Atterberg, Lillian Covarrubias, Tiera Hall, Antonia Kisler, Anna Landis, Tyriunna Steele, Janessa Wallace

Men’s cross country
Amos Kipkemoi, Jeff Kipkorir, Jeff Kipkorir, Mathew Kiplagat, Mathias Kiprotich, Finnegan Martin

Women’s cross country
Sheila Cheruiyot, Ascar Jepchirchir, Qetsia Kamdem Houeguo, Marrion Kemboi, Damaris Kimaiyo, Faith Kiprop, Linda Koech, Abigael Maiyo, Grace Maiyo, Sharon Yego

Esports
Bishop Kyser, Austin Ullrich

Men’s golf
Braeden Brennan, Blake Harvey, Kenneth Hoosen, Tyler Partee, Brayden Schleich

Women’s golf
Anna Carroll, Jessica Schultz, Olivia Seei, Abigail Strode, Allison Thome

Men’s soccer
Pablo Albiach Perez, Sergio Cruz Segui, Kokou Dadabo, Alberto Fernandez Do Carmo, Mateo Figueroa Garibay, Iker Garcia, Valentin Kretschmer, Teigan Lai-Conboy, Jaime Martin Caballero, Connor McLauchlan, Lucas Mota, Tyrese Ogbonnia, Caio Oliveira, Linus Richtberg, Enrico Augusto Rola, Diego Santos Branco Martinez, Craig Sewell, Emiliano Sosa

Softball
Jordyn Climer, Jaylynn Hamilton, Madalynn Knapp, Rylee Krebsbach, Lakinn Larson, Reese Poole, Hannah Pyle, Emma Racke, Payton Ruggles, Tieler Williams-Fouts

Volleyball
Taliya Galloway, Addison Gillen, Madalynn Knapp, Macy Nolan, Quinn Rexroat, Payton Ruggles, Abigail Shaffer, Taylor Wagner

Burn Ban in Effect 03/22/2026

Burn Ban in Effect 03/22/2026

MACOMB, IL
McDonough County ESDA has issued an immediate county-wide Open Burn Ban due to the
extremely dry conditions impacting Central Illinois. This ban encompasses all areas within
McDonough County, including the Macomb City limits, and is intended to protect residents,
property, and the community from the heightened risk of accidental fires. The burn ban will
remain in effect until further notice and prohibits all open burning within city limits. This includes,
but is not limited to, yard waste, bonfires, and recreational fires.
Exceptions:
• The use of charcoal or gas grills for cooking is permitted.
• Grills must be attended at all times while in use.
Persons who violate the burn ban will be subject to a fine.
The City of Macomb urges all residents to take this situation seriously and exercise extreme
caution with any potential fire hazards during this period of unusually dry weather. Public safety is
our top priority, and your cooperation is essential in reducing the risk of accidental fires.
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Macomb Fire Department
309-836-7800

CARTHAGE CITY COUNCIL

AGENDA

REGULAR MEETING MARCH 24, 2026

MAYOR:
Pledge of Allegiance Approve Regular Minutes March 17, 2026
Roll Call TIF – Velvet Hanger Update
Public Comments Resolution – 250 Commemoration
1248 Asbestos Pay Request
Ordinance Approving TIF Agreement – Wood Inn
Ordinance Approving TIF Agreement – Housewright Construction
CLERK:
TREASURER:
CITY ATTORNEY:
530 Wabash - Reed Building Land on end of Wabash
201 S. Scofield - Hundley Property 160 Prairie – Charlie Mustread
724 Walnut – Xavier Hutchcroft 130 S. Marion – Sebastian Jemison
PUBLIC SAFETY:
Report on Fire Dept. Report on Police
PUBLIC PROPERTY:
Tree City Report Landfill Report Land Bank
Public Properties Update LT Pay Request – 511 Walnut & Tree Trimming
FINANCE:
Salaries Amended Budget
PUBLIC WORKS:
Building Permit report CFL Loan Program – Dearwester
New Deep Well Concrete Bids
LEGISLATIVE:
Code Book Update
EXECUTIVE SESSION:

CARTHAGE CITY COUNCIL

AGENDA

SPECIAL MEETING MARCH 26, 2026

MAYOR:
Roll Call
Public Comments
CLERK:
TREASURER:
CITY ATTORNEY:
PUBLIC SAFETY:
PUBLIC PROPERTY:
FINANCE:
Salaries
PUBLIC WORKS:
LEGISLATIVE:
Code Book Update

Dr Jodi Pospeschl with Sandburg College  on  The Morning Brew   - Now is the Time to Sign up for Nursing Programs and the Community Education Classes!  Learn a New Skill- Cookie Decorating, Stained Glass, Calligraphy and Don't Slurp your Spaghetti Manners! 

Join a Day Adventure Trip  to Pella or to Sweet Briar

Southeastern Lady Suns 8th Grade Volleyball Super Sectional Game vs Rantoul  

March 20th 2026

Hancock County Board Members    Lee Ann Lambert and Michelle Merritt  chat with the Morning Brew on Monday nights board meeting 

Republican Candidates- Josh Higgins  on his  win  for the Republican  Primary

Republican Candidates- Shannon Kissinger on her  win for Treasurer  primary