News Progress

•April 9, 2025•

by Cheri Burcham
Extension Educator
University of Illinois Extension

One of the best ways to lead a happy, healthy, and successful life is to have good self-esteem. As youth are developing socially, emotionally, and physically, it’s important to develop good self-esteem building habits early on. According to the Child Development Institute, youth with high self-esteem tend to be more confident, try new things, handle their emotions better, and treat others with more kindness. Youth with low self-esteem often lack confidence, avoid new things, struggle with their emotions, and struggle in their relationships with others.

Help teens build self-esteem by showing support and encouragement. Let youth know when they’ve done something well to help them develop a more positive view of themselves. Make it a point to focus on their strengths and point out the things they can do. Perfection should not be the goal. “It’s okay if I didn’t get a perfect score on that test. I did my best, and I’ll try again on the next one!”

IL Attorney General’s PSA resonates

•April 9, 2025•

Last week’s monthly “Dine with a Doc” at Mid Illinois Senior Services was a presentation, timely for April Fool’s Day, by Heather Calcara of the Illinois Attorney General’s Office on how to avoid becoming a victim of frauds and scams. The presentation was very well-received, with a healthy Q&A after her presentation and many nods and affirmations throughout.   

The monthly lunch and learn was opened with a heartfelt statement of gratitude to all Veterans, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, and a fine lunch served to all in attendance. Patty Hood from Sarah Bush Lincoln led the luncheon and introduced Heather Calcara and the topic. A table was set up with numerous informative flyers, brochures, and resources for those in attendance.

•April 9, 2025•

Sophomores, juniors or seniors interested in a career in healthcare can apply now at https://bit.ly/4jdGvzU (search academy) for the Sarah Bush Lincoln Healthcare Academy. The Academy aims to equip high school students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary for success in the healthcare field. The program runs from 8:30 am - noon, June 16 - 20 at SBL in the Lumpkin Education Center. Participants will be exposed to a broad range of healthcare careers and connect with Sarah Bush Lincoln staff and local colleges to learn about education and career pathways. Participants will learn more about careers in:

•April 9, 2025•

Windsor Junior/Senior High School has announced their “Students of the Month” for March:

Mattie Kasey is the daughter of Blake and Amy Kasey. She is currently an 8th-grade student and is involved in dance, cheer, track, and volleyball. In her spare time, she enjoys playing club volleyball. Mattie plans to one day be a Physical Therapist.

Aubrey Carter is a senior, the granddaughter of Rick and Sheila Fritts. She is the Senior Class president, a member of the yearbook staff, and is involved in FFA. In her free time, she works and enjoys spending time with her family and friends. After graduation, she plans to attend Eastern Illinois University, majoring in Elementary Education.

Eligible Illinois taxpayers can use IRS’s Direct File program this year

•April 9, 2025•

The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is reminding taxpayers that the Tuesday, April 15th deadline is quickly approaching for filing 2024 state individual income tax returns. The agency began accepting and processing individual income tax returns on January 27, the same date the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) began accepting federal returns. “We encourage taxpayers to file electronically and choose direct deposit in order to ensure the fastest processing and issuance of any refunds,” IDOR Director David Harris said. 

Illinois is participating in the free IRS Direct File program this year at https://directfile.irs.gov/. Eligible Illinois taxpayers can use the program to file their 2024 federal returns directly with the IRS. Federal return information can then be transferred into MyTax Illinois, to file Illinois individual income taxes at no cost. Direct File eligibility can be confirmed by visiting https://directfile.irs.gov.