Community News
School board eyes school funding for GMS softball program
The Community Unit School District 7 Board of Education is expected to vote next month on whether or not to transition the Gillespie Middle School softball program from a parent-funded to a school-funded activity next year following an extensive discussion of the issue during the board’s regular monthly meeting Monday night. The discussion comprised nearly half of the board’s relatively brief 40-minute open session.
Softball Coach Michelle Smith, who also is a part of the parent’s group raising funds for the program, asked the board to consider budgeting about $10,000 to fund the program. The board authorized middle school softball as a parent-funded sport in 2017. Since that time, the team has compiled records of 18-2 in 2018, 20-3 in 2019 and 18-2 in 2021 (there was no season in 2020 due to COVID-19).
“Performance-wise it has been a successful program,” Smith said. According to Smith, the program helps players also succeed academically. “They become leaders in the classroom as well as on the field. It helps them come in stronger and ready to participate as freshmen. We want to keep building on that success, both athletically and academically.”
Smith said past practice has been for the board to transition parent-funded programs to school-funded programs after four successful years. She cited boys baseball and girls basketball as programs that became school-funded after four years of demonstrated success.
While budgeting $10,000 per season, actual expenses for the program totaled $7,395 for the first year and $8,446 the second year. In 2022, when the season was suspended, the parents spent $375 for yard signs to support the team. Expenses so far for the 2021 season total $6,865 though the group is waiting to finalize the cost for transportation. The lion’s share of the expense, Smith said, is for transportation, with lesser amounts for game officials and coaches. Expenses for uniforms are minimal because the girls wear team-provided t-shirts with their own pants.
Smith said the parents’ group is projecting $10,675 for the 2022 season.
Smith said the program has sponsored a tournament in late July at Welfare Park with parents staffing the concession stand and selling t-shirts. Those tournaments typically raise about $3,000, which defrays about a third of the program’s expenses.
“We’d like to keep doing the tournament,” Smith said. “It’s our baby and we get to see a lot of teams from our area. It brings people into our community and they spend money here.” The parents group has agreed to continue hosting and staffing the event, she said.
Smith said the season calls for 19 games with half of those being away games. As coach, she said she limits participation to 18 players because that is the maximum number of players she can take to playoff games at the end of the season. “I’d hate to get to play-offs and have to tell some players they can’t go,” she said.
Board member Dennis Tiburzi, however, strongly urged her to take on more than 18 players not only to create more opportunity but also to mitigate against the possibility of players being side-lined by injuries or other factors.
Answering questions from the board, Smith said a majority of players go on to play softball at the high school level. Last year, she said, nine out of 15 players went on to play high school softball, with the other six opting to participate in other sports.
Smith asked the board to make a decision next month or at the July meeting at the latest. The season starts the last week of July, which is before the school year begins. “They go into the school year already feeling like family,” she said.
Currently, middle school softball players pay a $100 fee which covers uniform costs, Smith said. The district’s standard athletic fee is $30. If the board chooses to make the sport school-funded, she asked that a decision also be made regarding the participating fee so parents and players can be informed in advance.
The issue is expected to be an agenda item for the board’s June meeting.
BUS BIDS
In other action, the board authorized Supt. Shane Owsley to seek bids for leasing/purchasing new or used buses. Owsley emphasized that collecting bids does not obligate the board to accept a bid and actually make a purchase. He characterized the move as more of an information-gathering project at this time.
Owsley presented an inventory of buses currently owned by the district, citing a need to keep closer track of the age of vehicles the district owns.
“It’s much easier to budget if we know the age of our vehicles,” he said. The district currently owns several buses that are 20 years old with odometer readings ranging from 170,000 to 190,000 miles. “It’s getting to the point that the bandaids we put on them won’t hold.”
Owsley said his goal is to develop a fleet with no buses more than five years old. State law allows the district to claim depreciation on buses over a period of five years, he said, which basically allows the district to recover 80 percent of the cost over that period of time.
“My end goal, once we get rid of our 20-year-old buses, we never keep a bus longer than five years,” he said. “When the depreciation comes off, we trade that vehicle while it still has some value. We have buses now that have only junk value.”
BUDGET
In a series of related actions, the board voted to place an amended fiscal 2022 school budget on file for public review with an eye toward adopting the amendments next month, directed Owsley to begin work on developing a tentative budget for fiscal 2023, and authorized 2023 expenditures from July 1 until the time a new budget is adopted.
Owsley said the amended budget for the current fiscal year reflects the unanticipated receipt of federal funds related to COVID-19 relief as well as the expenditure of those funds. He plans to provide a detailed presentation regarding the amendments before the board adopts the revised budget on June 27.
The current fiscal year ends June 30. The fiscal 2023 budget will cover revenue and expenditures anticipated from July 1 this year through June 30, 2023. The tentative 2023 budget is expected to be filed for public review in July with final adoption anticipated in August—a full two months after the start of the new fiscal year. The motion to authorize expenditures in the interim is a routine formality that allows the district to meet operation costs between the start of the fiscal year and the final budget adoption.
PERSONNEL
Board members voted unanimously to accept the resignation of Jake Bilbruck as Gillespie Middle School social science teacher and post the position as vacant. Bilbruck, named Madison Communications Teacher of the Year in 2015, is a Gillespie High School graduate. He resigned as head high school football coach in January after coaching the Miners for three years.
In other personnel action, the board appointed Jack Burns as a volunteer assistant high school cross-country coach and appointed Jill Strole as a volunteer assistant middle school/high school cross-country coach. The board also voted unanimously to hire Casey Sholtis as the high school golf coach.
On a motion by Bill Carter, seconded by Burns, the board voted to reappoint the following fall/winter coaches for the 2022-23 school year: Jeremy Smith, middle school head boys baseball coach; Tim Wargo, assistant middle school boys baseball coach, Michelle Smith, middle school girls softball coach; Jim Matesa, assistant middle school girls softball coach; Chase Peterson, eighth grade boys basketball coach; Korben Clark, seventh grade boys basketball coach; Celia Jubelt, eighth grade girls volleyball coach; Elizabeth Thackery, seventh grade girls volleyball coach; Kyle Lamore, middle school scholar bowl; Darian Gill, middle school cheer coach; Celia Jubelt, high school girls volleyball coach; Shelsie Timmermeier, high school assistant girls volleyball coach; Nate Henrichs, high school assistant football coach; Kevin Gray, high school assistant golf coach; Jacob Killebrew, high school assistant golf coach; Andrea Williamson, high school dance coach; Casey Sholtis, high school boys basketball coach; Eric Bogle, freshman boys basketball coach; Kevin Gray, high school girls basketball coach; Nikki Brawner, high school girls basketball coach; and Jarrod Herron, high school scholar bowl.
OTHER ACTION
In other action, the board.
- Approved renewing membership in Sourcewell, a purchasing cooperative through which the school purchases cleaning supplies and other commodities at discounted prices.
- Approved the district Student Handbook for 2022-23, which reflects minor updates from the 2021-22 edition.
- Approved the student fee schedule. Fees are essentially the same as for 2021-22 except for a 10-cent increase in lunch/breakfast fees and the addition of a $480 replacement fee for lost or non-reparable laptop computers.
Comments
FELONIES
Austin C. Drake, 30 of Girard, is charged with theft/unauthorized control (>$500<$10k) and bad checks/obtaining control of property in connection with a September 22 and an October 7 incident.
William C. Cooper, 41 of Gillespie, is charged with burglary in connection with a November 1 incident.
Joseph L. Schnurr, 63 of De Soto, Mo, is charged with aggravated fleeing in connection with a November 26 incident.
Derek J. Bultema, 40 of Gillespie, is charged with possession of methamphetamine in connection with a November 26 incident.
Brandon A. Martin, 26 of Wood River, is charged with aiding/abetting/possession/selling a stolen vehicle and aggravated fleeing in connection with a November 26 incident.
MISDEMEANORS
Richard J. Williams, 44 of Staunton, is charged with criminal trespass to a vehicle in connection with a November 14 incident.
Ryne L. Manion, 41 of Mt. Olive, is charged with criminal trespass to a building in connection with a November 20 incident.
TRAFFIC
Terence L. Binion, 51 of University City, MO, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 22 incident.
Andrew J. Goewey, 34 of Sawyerville, is charged with driving on a revoked license and driving 21-25 mph above the limit in connection with a November 22 incident.
Teresa J. Niewiadomski, 47 of Bethalto, is charged with driving on a suspended license, expired registration, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle in connection with a November 19 incident.
Keona D. Roos, 22 of Freeburg, is charged with driving on a suspended license, improper use of registration/title, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and no valid registration in connection with a November 21 incident.
Zachary A. Johnston, 44 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 23 incident.
Alexis R. Spann, 32 of Auburn, is charged with driving on a suspended license in connection with a November 19 incident.
Alicia N. Tamosaitis, 29 of Girard, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 19 incident.
Justin A. Collins, 37 of Gillespie, is charged with driving on a revoked license in connection with a November 20 incident.
DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE FILED
- Allan L. Petit versus Teresa M. Pettit
Comments
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of West Wilson Street in reference to a domestic battery. Ashley A. Esmon, 39 of Staunton, was arrested for domestic battery.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Springfield Road and Calcari Street in East Gillespie. Angel L. Bricker, 22 of East Alton, was cited for operating an uninsured vehicle and driving while registration was suspended.
An officer was dispatched to Spruce Street and Laura Street in reference to a noise complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of East Elm Street in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Charles Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Macoupin Street and Elm Street. Zachary A. Johnston, 44 of Gillespie, was issued a citation for driving while license was revoked.
An officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 400 block of East Central in Benld in reference to suspicious activity.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Cloud Street in reference to a domestic dispute. Steven O. Smith, 36 of Chicago, was arrested on a warrant out of Chicago on a weapons charge.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Abba Street in reference to theft and criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to criminal damage to property and criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of North 7th Street in Benld in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Charles Street in reference to an animal complaint.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a 911 call.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of West Wilson Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of East Locust Street in Benld in reference to the removal of a subject.
An officer was dispatched to Circle Drive at Gillespie Lake in reference to an alarm sounding.
An officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Penny Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to South 2nd Street in Benld in reference to unwanted solicitors.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2025
An Officer was dispatched to the 900 block of South Macoupin Street in reference to a domestic dispute.
An officer initiated a traffic stop at Macoupin Street and Easton Street. Joseph L. Schnurr, 63 of Eagarville, was arrested for reckless driving, fleeing/eluding a peace officer, squealing tires, failing to obey a stop sign, improper use of registration, and operating an uninsured vehicle.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to a juvenile issue.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Springfield Road in East Gillespie in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of East Chestnut Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer spoke with a female at the Gillespie Police Department in reference to a civil issue in the 300 block of South Illinois Street in Benld.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to a suicidal subject.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street in reference to a fire alarm sounding.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Park Avenue in reference to criminal trespass to property.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Horizon Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Henry Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Cedar Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 700 block of Francis Street in reference to a 911 call
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Henrietta Street in reference to an animal complaint.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2025
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Walnut Street in Benld in reference to a theft.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare in reference to disorderly conduct.
An officer was dispatched to the 400 block of West Central in Benld in reference to juvenile issues.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to a reckless driver.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Elm Street in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 900 block of North Hard Road in Mt. Clare in reference to a 911 call.
An officer was dispatched to the 300 block of East Central Avenue in Benld in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of North Macoupin Street in reference to suspicious activity.
An officer spoke with a male on Dorsey Road in Mt. Clare in reference to a vehicle that was parked on the lot for a few days.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2025
An officer was dispatched to West Central Street and North Trolley Street in Benld in reference to a traffic crash.
An officer was dispatched to the 500 block of Lynn Street in reference to a well-being check.
An officer was dispatched to the 600 block of Broadway Street at Gillespie High School in reference to the fire alarm sounding.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Comments
Ye Olde Christmas is the theme of the Macoupin County Historical Society’s annual Christmas Show, which will be held Friday through Sunday, December 5–7, at the John C. Anderson Home and Museum, 920 West Breckenridge in Carlinville.
“The Christmas Show is one of the most magical times to visit the Anderson Home,” said MCHS Board Member and House Manager Brandy England. “Some families make it an annual Christmas tradition to visit the Anderson Home when it is decorated for Christmas. It’s a great opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit and pick up some ideas for decorating your own home for the holidays.”
MCHS member Kendra Mize, of Bunker Hill, who has coordinated the decorating effort for more than two decades, has again marshalled a small army of volunteers to decorate all 13 rooms of the home. Each room features a themed Christmas tree, along with mantle pieces, centerpieces, tabletop decor, garlands and florals, and other special touches.
The home will be open for self-guided tours from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, December 5; from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, December 6; and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 7.
“We’re very excited to offer for the first time candlelight tours from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday,” said Shawna Ashby, who serves as a co-manager with England. “Viewing the decorated home by candlelight promises to be a magical experience.”
The final candlelight tours on Friday and Saturday start at 7:30 p.m. Admission to the home is five dollars for adults and one dollar for children ages five to 12, with four-year-olds and younger admitted free of charge.
The Anderson Home Gift Shop will be open during tour hours, offering one-of-a-kind gift items and stocking stuffers. Santa Claus will be on hand in the downstairs parlor to greet children and listen to their Christmas wishes from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 6.
While the decorated home is the centerpiece of the Christmas Show, several other features on the Historical Society’s grounds will be open. The Red Barn will be open and serving hearty beef stew, chili, homemade pies, and warming holiday beverages such as wassail and hot chocolate on Friday and Saturday.
The General Store and Print Shop will be decorated and open to the public, with the Print Shop offering its popular handmade Christmas cards and other items produced in the shop; kids can print their own blank “Santa List” to keep track of their Christmas wishes.
“The General Store offers unique gift items, including some small antiques, for shoppers to peruse,” England noted.
Local blacksmiths will demonstrate their craft in the MCHS Blacksmith Shop located on the north side of the Historical Society Grounds, with wrought iron gift items, including stocking hooks and decorative pieces, available for purchase.
The Macoupin County Historical Society’s Christmas Show runs concurrently with the Carlinville Christmas Market and Downtown Christmas events, and a free trolley and shuttle buses include the Anderson Home as a regular stop during the festivals, enabling visitors to ride from the square or the Macoupin County Fairgrounds to the Historical Society grounds.
