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WASHINGTON, D.C. - Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC)—secured several important provisions in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that passed the Senate today to support our servicemembers and their families, enhance strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, improve logistics to bolster readiness and energy resiliency as well as continue to restore American competitiveness. The legislation, which now heads to the President’s desk, also includes an historic pay raise of 14.5% for junior enlisted servicemembers and 4.5% for all servicemembers. “The brave men and women in uniform who serve our nation at home and abroad deserve to know that our country fully supports them as they and their families sacrifice to defend our country,” said Senator Duckworth. “While I do not support every

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EAST ST. LOUIS — Sister Thea Bowman Catholic School (STBCS), the last remaining Catholic School in East. St. Louis is excited to share their vision to help our region build graduates who are ethical, responsible, and dedicated leaders inspiring good in their community and the world. And they are ready to welcome your students now and for the 2025-2026 school year. STBCS will be hosting an Open House for all prospective and returning families on January 30, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at 8213 Church Lane, East Saint Louis, IL., 62203. Principal Michelle Ruppel shares, “Families will enjoy a tour of our updated facilities, as well as the chance to meet with faculty and staff to see first-hand what this unique school is all about. Our school also has a recruitment mindset, so future educators are always welcome to tour as well.” Event hosts plan to share the many benefits the school has to offer including all-day kindergarten, small class sizes, STEM robotics

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ALTON - A man from Godfrey was recently charged with attempted kidnapping and aggravated battery after allegedly trying to pull someone on a public Alton street towards his vehicle. Aaron R. Jackson, 41, of Godfrey, was charged on Dec. 18, 2024 with one count each of attempted kidnapping and aggravated battery, both Class 3 felonies. On Dec. 10, 2024, Jackson approached the victim “on a public street and pulled her toward his motor vehicle,” with the specific location being a sidewalk along Pearl Street in Alton, according to court documents. A petition filed to deny Jackson’s pretrial release describes how the situation unfolded and escalated. “Victim reports that the defendant suddenly stopped his truck, approached the victim on a public street and grabbed her by the arms,” the petition states. “He then pushed her to the ground and attempted to drag her back to a nearby vehicle." Speaking to authorities, the victim in this case described

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GRANITE CITY - On Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, Granite City Police Department along with Granite City Firefighters Local 253 hosted its annual 'Shop with a Hero' event. Students got to ride in a Police Car, Fire Truck or Ambulance to shop at Walmart, and then joined their family at Township Hall for a meal provided by St. John UCC Granite City. It was a special day for all! Below is a link to a video from the occasion provided by BC Photography. VIDEO: https://youtu.be/5z0ouPpfWhA

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ST. LOUIS, MO. - Spending the holiday season in a hospital wouldn’t be at the top of anyone’s list, but Shriners Children’s has made it their mission to ensure their patients still have a magical Christmas season. Laura Teague, a Senior Recreational Therapist at Shriners Children’s St. Louis, has been a part of the Child Life and Recreational Therapy Department for more than 30 years. Child life specialists and recreational therapists at the nonprofit healthcare system work with patients and their families to provide distraction and coping techniques during a patient’s treatment. They are also certified and trained to evaluate a child’s developmental and psychological needs. “We always hope people can be home for the holidays, but if not, it’s our job to make them feel as normal as possible as if they were home,” said Teague. “Year-round, our care teams make sure our kids get a gift after surgery at the end of their

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EDWARDSVILLE - Planting the wrong seed can cost farmers thousands of dollars in revenue and lead to a shortage of vital crops in the region. First Mid Ag Services (First Mid), a division of First Mid Wealth Management, started its own unbiased research on corn and soybean seed 20 years ago to help farmers and farm managers make crucial decisions on what seed to buy. First Mid recently published its 2024 third-party data to help farmers purchase seed now as they prepare for the upcoming 2025 growing season. With 12 replicated and eight strip plots in 2024 stretching throughout Illinois and into Western Indiana, First Mid tested seed from 10 participating major companies and provided yield data to farmers. The statistics gathered from the plots inform both First Mid customers and the wider community throughout the region. First Mid started doing its own research on seed in 2004, testing upward of 18 companies’ products in some cycles. The tests lead to information on how different

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EDWARDSVILLE - The surprise, smiles and squeals from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Project Success students occurred because of the kindness and generosity of the East St. Louis Fire Department (ESLFD) Local 23, the First Baptist Church of Chesterfield and surrounding organizations and members. ESLFD, in collaboration with the local non-profit organization Rescued 2 Rescue, and Alpha Upsilon Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., gifted toys to the students and First Baptist Church provided new coats during Project Success’s third annual Holiday Wishes party on Tuesday, Dec. 17, in the Multipurpose Room on the Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Campus. “It is important to organize this event because it gives us an opportunity to think about others, spread kindness, and pay it forward,” said Program Director Tiana Montgomery. Montgomery asked each of her students to provide three wishes for the holidays. She also obtained their

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ST. LOUIS - First Mid Insurance Group (FMIG) is pleased to announce that Casey Strong, owner of the Strong Insurance Group based in St. Charles, MO, has joined its team. This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for both Strong and FMIG, offering clients expanded resources, enhanced service capabilities, and access to a broader range of insurance products. A trusted insurance advisor in the St. Louis region, Strong specializes in commercial insurance. Known for her personalized approach and outstanding customer service, she will continue to serve her valued clients while leveraging advanced tools and resources through FMIG’s growing Missouri presence. In addition, while FMIG works with most national and regional insurance carriers, the addition of the Casey Strong agency will bring new relationships with regional carriers focused on writing business specifically in the state of Missouri. “Joining the FMIG team is a natural step forward for me and my clients,”

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As the chilly winds blow and snow blankets the ground, the urge to stay indoors can be strong. However, winter presents a unique opportunity to stay active and embrace the great outdoors. Not only does exercising outside in winter provide physical benefits, but it can also enhance mental well-being. This article explores various outdoor workouts suitable for winter, offering practical advice and examples to help you stay fit during the colder months. Embrace the Chill: Benefits of Outdoor Winter Workouts Before diving into specific workouts, it's important to understand the advantages of exercising outdoors in winter. Here are a few key benefits: Boosted Mood : Exposure to natural light, even on cloudy days, can help combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and improve overall mood. Increased Caloric Burn : Cold weather can cause your body to work harder to maintain its core temperature, potentially leading to increased calorie expenditure. Variety in Routine : Outdoor workouts

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December 19th has been a date of significant historical events that have shaped nations and influenced global dynamics. Look to December 19, 1946, and we find the establishment of the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF). Founded in the aftermath of World War II, UNICEF was created to provide emergency food and healthcare to children in countries that had been devastated by the war. Over the years, UNICEF has evolved into a leading advocate for children's rights around the globe, working tirelessly to improve the lives of millions of children through education, health programs, and emergency assistance. This day marks not only the creation of an essential organization but also a commitment to the welfare of future generations. On December 19, 1961, the United States began its involvement in the Vietnam War by sending military advisors to assist the South Vietnamese government. This moment marked the beginning of a significant escalation in U.S. military

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ALTON - It’s official: the Alton Midwest Nationals Formula 1 (F1) Powerboat Championship races are returning to the Alton riverfront not only next year, but for the next three years. Alton City Council members on Wednesday approved an agreement for the city to host the races in 2025, 2026, and 2027. The second annual installment will be held next summer during the weekend of Friday, July 18 to Sunday, July 20, 2025. “The F1 Powerboat Championship is coming back to Riverfront Park for the 2nd Annual Alton Midwest Nationals Powerboat Championships,” a press release for the event states. “This event is going to be epic, with fast boats racing on the Mississippi River and tons of fun activities for everyone to enjoy.” In addition to “some of the best powerboat racers in North America,” the second annual event will also feature “vendor displays, free viewing areas, a VIP Experience, music, food, and more.” The weekend

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EAST ST. LOUIS - An East St. Louis man with a long criminal history faces new charges after allegedly breaking into someone’s home, firing a gun at multiple occupants, and fleeing from police. Daron J. Cooper, 28, of East St. Louis, was charged with the following: Armed Habitual Criminal (Class X felony) Home Invasion (Class X felony) Home Invasion (Class X felony) Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm (Class 1 felony) Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm (Class 1 felony) Unlawful Use or Possession of Weapons be a Felon (Class 2 felony) Aggravated Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Peace Officer (Class 4 felony) On Dec. 6, 2024, Cooper allegedly broke into his ex-girlfriend’s house before discharging a firearm at multiple occupants and fleeing from police, according to a petition to deny his pretrial release. “Defendant was identified as the suspect who entered his ex-girlfriend's residence by forcing entry through the front door, then discharging

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GODFREY - The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC) is launching an exciting new free educational series for community learners. The SEED (Sustainable Environments for Education and Discovery) Series will kick off with a “Gearing Up for Gardens” session from 10 a.m. to noon, Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025. Lewis and Clark Community College Horticulturist & Garden Designer Katie Piper will share the benefits of native plants and how to incorporate them into participants’ gardens. The event will also feature a native seed swap – every guest will receive a packet of Illinois bundleflower seeds, collected from the Field Station gardens, to take home and grow. “We are thrilled to offer this new educational opportunity to our community,” said Erica Doerr, Environmental Educator. “The SEED Series reflects our commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of environmental sustainability. The events will provide people with the tools

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SPRINGFIELD – Starting January 1, 2025, employers in Illinois will be required to provide pay stubs to employees each pay period. The pay stubs must include information on hours worked, pay rates, overtime pay, and deductions from wages. “This law gives employees greater transparency about their earnings, allowing workers to verify their hours, income, and deductions,” said Illinois Department of Labor Director Jane Flanagan. As part of Public Act 103-0953 , employers must keep a copy of an employee’s pay stub for a period of three years from the date of payment, regardless of whether that person remains employed at the business. An employee or former employee may request copies of their paystubs at least twice in a 12-month period. Questions about Public Act 103-0953 can be sent to DOL.Wages@Illinois.gov and 312-793-2808.

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CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS), and the Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB) announced the selection of 13 organizations to receive funding through the unprecedented Healthcare Transformation Capital Investment Grant Program. The grants, which total $200 million, will fund capital projects addressing health-related social needs and reduce disparities in healthcare in historically underserved communities. “As my administration continues on our mission to expand healthcare access throughout Illinois, we’re focused on investing in historically underserved areas,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This Capital Improvement Grant Program will improve hospitals and care centers with much needed improvements, making it easier for healthcare professionals to serve their communities.” Healthcare Transformation Capital Improvement grants will build on HFS’ equity-driven Healthcare Transformation

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GODFREY - Lewis and Clark Community College's Science of Happiness class collaborated with College for Life (CFL) students this fall to write gratitude letters to loved ones and teachers, encouraging meaningful connections. As part of the project, a gratitude portrait wall is on display in Trimpe, featuring photos of CFL students alongside the words of things they are thankful for. “This gratitude project not only helped foster positive emotions but also encouraged students to spread kindness and appreciation to everyone they interact with,” L&C Communications Professor Christina Chapman said. The Science of Happiness students worked with CFL participants, many of whom have disabilities, to help them write gratitude letters. Through these conversations, the two groups shared stories, laughter and reflections, forming bonds based on mutual respect and shared experiences. The project also helped students rethink their ideas about people who are different from them. One

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WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) in reintroducing bipartisan legislation that would provide Veterans who have service-connected disabilities with expedited screening under the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program. While TSA PreCheck is already offered to active duty, Reserves and National Guard servicemembers at no cost, the Veterans Expedited TSA Screening (VETS) Safe Travel Act would expand this program to include Veterans who are amputees, paralyzed or blind who often experience challenges when passing through airport security. “Millions of Veterans have sacrificed a great deal in service to our nation and returned home with service-connected disabilities—for those of us who rely on prosthetics and wheelchairs for mobility, air travel and passing through airport security can be a challenge,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m

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ST. LOUIS - Yesterday, it was announced that there would be a suspension of operations at Homer G. Phillips Memorial Hospital and a sudden furlough of its dedicated healthcare workers. In response, the City of St. Louis Mayor’s Office, Department of Health, and the St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment (SLATE) will be collaborating with healthcare leaders across the region to ensure that the impacted workers receive the support they need to find meaningful employment by connecting these individuals with new opportunities, whether through job placement, training programs, or other forms of assistance. “My thoughts are with the workers who were unjustifiably impacted by this sudden closure,” said Mayor Tishaura O. Jones. “However, I know thoughts must be matched by action, and I’m proud of the quick coordination happening within our City departments to support these workers. The closure of this hospital right before the holidays represents another

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Police (ISP) is expanding the number of ways drivers receive alerts when ISP activity is up ahead and they need to slow down and move over. ISP and the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology, (DoIT) are partnering with HAAS Alert to expand notifications to select Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Mercedes-Benz, RAM, and Volkswagen vehicles. These safety alerts to drivers will be powered by Safety Cloud, HAAS Alert’s solution for delivering digital alerts through leading navigation apps and compatible vehicle infotainment systems. “Move Over crashes are preventable and we’ve had too many troopers killed and injured because of them,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “To keep both ISP troopers and drivers safe, ISP continues to identify new ways to alert people when they need to slow down and move over. Our partnership with HAAS Alert will help us ensure drivers are paying attention and focused on the road ahead.”

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The bed is a space to relax and recharge. But not all sleeping positions are created equally. If you’re constantly waking up with neck, back or joint pain, Zeeshan Ahmad, MD , a spine physiatrist in pain management at OSF HealthCare, has some things to try. Primary position The idea, Dr. Ahmad says, is to maintain the body’s natural posture when you sleep. Doctors have found that sleeping on your left side is a good way to accomplish this. “Put a pillow under the neck in a way that the neck is in a neutral position,” Dr. Ahmad says. “We don’t want the pillow to make the neck go up.” Put a pillow between your legs, as well, so your right leg doesn’t pull the spine down. Arms and pillows When sleeping, should your arms be by your side, curled up in a so-called T-Rex position or some other way? Dr. Ahmad says it comes down to comfort. If resting your arms on your midsection doesn’t hurt, go for it. Another option for side

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