Jersey County, IL

JERSEYVILLE — A ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony us set for 5 p.m. May 24 at the city's new Fitness Court in Jerseyville's Lions Club Park. City officials and representatives of the National Fitness Campaign (NFC) will celebrate the construction of the recreational facility at the corner of North Jefferson and East Spruce streets. The free facility features seven training zones as well as a supporting mobile app called "Fitness Court" available for both iOS and Android phones with what is described as a "coach-in-your-pocket" style platform adaptable for all fitness levels.

A state-operated school in Jacksonville and a state park in Jersey County will share almost $9 million in funds designed to make capital improvement to facilities.

JERSEYVILLE - An Elsah man was charged recently with failing to register as a sex offender. James N. Cook, 30, of the 23100 block of Lake Drive, Elsah, was charged May 10 with failure to register as a sex offender, a Class 3 felony; and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class A misdemeanor.

Illinois farmers are recovering quickly from a delayed start to planting this spring. Corn planted in Illinois reached 55 percent on Sunday, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Illinois Crop Progress and Condition Report. On May 8 only 15 percent of the corn crop was planted. The five-year average for this point of the season is 70 percent.

Gas prices have set another record high to start the week, according to AAA. A gallon of regular gas now averages $4.61 per gallon, up three cents since Sunday. Every New Jersey county is seeing average prices at $4.50 per gallon, and above, for regular. Essex and Somerset counties have the highest local averages at $4.70 per gallon.

The Jersey County Business Association and the City of Grafton will host the second annual Sip, Sample and Stroll on Saturday, May 21. from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Participating establishments along Grafton’s Main Street will be serving a sample of a signature foods and beverages for your enjoyment. Those participating include:

JERSEYVILLE – A Godfrey man has been arrested on charges of kidnapping and other crimes stemming from an incident in Jersey County. Terry L. Marmino, 44, of Godfrey was arrested May 2 on charges of kidnapping, unlawful restraint and two counts of domestic battery, all felonies. He was also charged with criminal damage to property, a misdemeanor.

Russell Edmund Clark, 78, passed away at 5:49 p.m., Friday, May 6, 2022 at his home in Alton. He was born on June 16, 1943 on the family farm in Edwards County, Illinois. Russell grew up in Edwards County, graduating with the Class of 1961 from Edwards County High School in Albion, Illinois. He went on to obtain his Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Education from Eastern Illinois University and his Masters Degree in Education Administration from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, graduating in 1976.

John Badman|The Telegraph A couple rides the bike trail along the Great River Road in Jersey County Tuesday taking advanatage of a cool morning before the sun broke through the haze and heated up the day. The couple were riding tadpole trikes, a form of recumbent bike which has three wheels and reclined seating. The trikes are popular with seniors and are better for back pain relief than a traditional bicycle. (John Badman)

New Jersey nursing home providers would receive $30 million to boost wages for its workers under a new budget proposal by Gov. Phil Murphy (D). The governor on Tuesday released his proposed budget for fiscal year 2023, which is sent to begin in July. The proposal includes $211.2 million to boost wages for direct care workers, including nursing home employees, home health aides and personal care assistants.

The Jersey County Arts Council is forming a pair of choirs for grade school children.

JERSEYVILLE – Those looking for a new job or training, as well as business owners seeking new workers, will benefit from a relocated Jersey/Calhoun Employment and Training facility. An open house and ribbon-cutting took place Tuesday at 120 W. Pearl St. The office provides workforce assistance ranging from job...

JERSEYVILLE — An Italian film festival recently recognized screenwriter and filmmaker Kevin Edwards' work while his company already is working on a new film, this one set in the 1980s. The Jerseyville native's short film, "Schmetterling," won Best Thriller honors at the Italian film festival Hollywood On the Tiber...

Russell Edmund Clark, 78, passed away at 5:49 p.m., Friday, May 6, 2022, at his home in Alton. He was born on June 16, 1943, on the family farm in Edwards County, Illinois. Russell grew up in Edwards County, graduating with the Class of 1961 from Edwards County High School in Albion, Illinois. He went on to obtain his Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Education from Eastern Illinois University and his Master's Degree in Education Administration from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, graduating in 1976.

Jacksonville School District 117 does not plan to stop having police ticket students for some infractions, Superintendent Steve Ptacek said, adding that it is just one tool used to keep students safe.

JERSEYVILLE - Both people looking for a new job or training, and business owners seeking workers will benefit from a relocated Jersey/Calhoun Employment and Training facility. An open house and ribbon-cutting were held Tuesday at the office's new location at 120 W. Pearl St. in Jerseyville.

JERSEYVILLE - Three people were charged with drug-related felonies in separate cases filed by the Jersey County State's Attorney's Office. Jason T. Kuehnel, 37, of the 900 block of Hollow Avenue, Jerseyville, was charged April 28 with unlawful possession of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony.

Congressman Rodney Davis has scheduled several stops for his Traveling Help Desks throughout May, including in Jersey and Greene counties.

GRAFTON — Organizers have released more details on Sip, Sample & Stroll planned May 21 in Grafton. Last year's inaugural event sold out quickly with $40 tickets for this year's stroll now available online at gratonilchamber.com or through the Jersey County Business Association.