Community News
Steve McClure forms exploratory committee for Illinois Senate
This story is contributed by a member of the McClure Exploratory Committee.
McClure begins 30-day listening tour across the district
Steve McClure (Contributed photo)
SPRINGFIELD—Sangamon County Assistant State’s Attorney Steve McClure is actively considering a run for the 50th District Illinois Senate seat in 2016. McClure, a Republican, filed papers with the Illinois State Board of Elections creating an exploratory committee that will allow him to begin fully exploring a candidacy.
“I was born and raised in the district, I am a life-long voting Republican, I pay my taxes, work hard, and I want this area to reach its potential,” said McClure. “This can only happen if the 50th District has trusted and reliable conservative leadership. There are currently too many roadblocks for local businesses, and not enough opportunities for our citizens to seek economic advancement. Many of our roads, bridges, and schools are in terrible condition. I want to be sure that the 50th Senate District seat is occupied by a person that will show up to work each day, represent the people, and make sure that we get our fair share of the resources that the state of Illinois has to offer.”
McClure has spent the last several months attending Republican events and informally speaking with Republican leaders across the district. McClure will be taking a leave of absence from his position in the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office so that he can enter into a more intense period of consideration of a potential candidacy. For the next 30 days, McClure will significantly increase his events and meetings across the district to meet the residents and hear their concerns. McClure will then look to make a final determination well in advance of the March 2016 Primary Election.
“I have several ideas to bring about positive changes, but I would like to open up a dialogue with voters and Republican leaders in the nine counties that make up the district to see what ideas they have. That is why I will spend the next few weeks traveling the area to better understand the needs and priorities of our residents, and to see whether or not they want new leadership.”
About Steve McClure
Steve McClure was born and raised in Springfield, Illinois with a long family history in public service. Both of his parents worked in Illinois state government, and his grandfathers served in the military. At Springfield High School, Steve excelled both as a student and as a record-setting athlete.
Steve was co-captain of the wrestling team and, as a senior, broke the school’s single-season record for his weight class, having twenty-six wins and only four losses. Steve also learned the value of working hard in maintenance during the summer at the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
In four short years at Arizona State University, Steve obtained two bachelor’s degrees – one in history and the other in political science. He was also elected vice chairman of the Arizona College Republicans. At the University of Illinois in Springfield, Steve earned his master’s degree in political studies while simultaneously working as a legislative intern on the appropriations staff for the Illinois Senate Republicans. Steve’s expertise was in analyzing budgets and appropriations. Steve obtained his law degree at Valparaiso University School of Law in Indiana where he served as president of the Law School Republicans.
Upon passing the bar, Steve accepted a position as an assistant state’s attorney in the Sangamon County Juvenile Division. As a juvenile prosecutor, he was dedicated to protecting children from abusive parents, rehabilitating delinquent youth, and unwavering on getting assistance to children with chronic absences. His leadership skills were recognized, and he soon became chief of the division.
Steve’s prosecution skills were then needed in the Sangamon County Felony Division. As a felony attorney, Steve has prosecuted those attempting to take financial advantage of senior citizens, and has served as a member of the Lincoln Land Adult Fatality Review Team that investigates the abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults that have passed away. Steve will be taking a leave of absence from the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office to explore the possibility of running for the Illinois Senate.
Steve has long been inspired by the service of his parents and the great Republican leaders in Illinois, and in the United States, that were in office during his childhood. His time analyzing budgets in the Illinois Senate during the administration of Governor Rod Blagojevich caused him to have serious concerns about the mismanagement and waste of taxpayer funds. Steve also has grave concerns about the shortcomings of the current juvenile and felony systems in place that have not been effective enough in keeping the state safer, saving the taxpayers money, and allowing people to transform their lives.
Steve is a lifelong conservative Republican who is pro-life, supportive of traditional family values, and a strong supporter of the Second Amendment. Steve is looking forward to spending time listening to the people of the 50th Senate District to determine if there is a desire for new leadership. Steve appreciates the support, wisdom, and dedication of the members of his exploratory committee. The initial list of nine exploratory committee members is being released today, and there will be a number of additional members named in the coming weeks.
Exploratory Committee
Chairman: George Laubner – Former banker who spent over 30 years in the central Illinois banking community, most recently as head of the investment and trust department at Marine Bank.
Mark Clayton – Chatham native with banking and financial experience who serves the community as a Chatham Trustee.
Connie “Coco” DiCenso – Small business owner and entrepreneur who owns and operates Café Coco, and was the former Director of Communications and Fund Development for SPARC.
Nancy Finley-Ealey – A member of law enforcement for fourteen years, and currently a detective with the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office.
Mark Frech – Carrollton native and former Director of the Illinois Department of Conservation, and current Executive Vice President and Secretary of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association.
Tim Mann – A member of law enforcement for 19 years who has served in New Berlin, South Jacksonville, and was the Chief of Police for Ashland. He is also the owner of Executive Limousine, which operates in Jacksonville and Springfield.
Scott Mills – Has worked in both state and federal government. Scott has held positions with the University of Illinois, the Social Security Administration, and currently works at the Office of the Illinois Comptroller.
Susan Mogerman – Former Director of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, and former Chief Operating Officer of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
Val Yazell – Former retail business owner and small business consultant.
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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
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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.
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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.
