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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Co-Chairs of the Senate Baltic Freedom Caucus, met today with Baltic Foreign Ministers and their ambassadors. During the meeting, they discussed the increase in Russian hybrid attacks in the Baltics and across Europe, and the need to maintain allied support for Ukraine and NATO. The meeting comes not long after Finland seized a Russian shadow fleet ship suspected of destroying an energy cable linking Estonia and Finland, and growing evidence of Russian arson, assassination, malign cyber activities, and sabotage on NATO soil. In addition to Durbin and Grassley, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) also attended. The Senators met with Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys and Ambassador Audra Plepyte; Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže and Ambassador Elita Kuzma; an

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BELLEVILLE — A 17-year-old from East St. Louis has been charged with multiple felonies, including first-degree murder, in connection with the shooting death of Dirico V. Washington. Joseph P. Flagg was taken into custody by Belleville detectives on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, following an investigation into the incident. The Belleville Police Department presented evidence to the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s office on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025, leading to the charges against Flagg. He faces serious allegations, including first-degree murder and unlawful possession of a handgun under the age of 18, among others. The complete list of charges includes: First Degree Murder, Class M Felony First Degree Murder in the Commission of a Forcible Felony, Class M Felony Unlawful Sale or Delivery of a Firearm, Class 2 Felony Attempt Unlawful Sale or Delivery of Firearm, Class 3 Felony Unlawful Possession of Handgun Under 18 Years Old, Class 4 Felony Unlawful Delivery

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GRANITE CITY - Monica Cooper, of Granite City, a beloved mother and friend, died unexpectedly on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025, after a brief battle with pneumonia. She was 42 years old. Cooper is remembered for her vibrant personality and infectious laughter. Described as a dynamic and fun-loving individual, she touched the lives of many with her honesty, warmth, and generosity. "Her ‘shoot from the hip’ honesty, tempered with humor, and her warm smile will be deeply missed by all who knew her," her family shared in a heartfelt statement. She is survived by her children, Justin and Samantha Clark, and Casie and Jeremy Wright, along with her grandchildren, Emma and Miley. Cooper was the daughter of Vernon Gale Cooper and Linda Lentz, and she leaves behind siblings Tommy and Peggy Cooper, Kevin Cooper, and Michelle and Toby Wallace. In light of Cooper's passing, her family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses and other unforeseen costs, as she did not

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EDWARDSVILLE - The Chick-fil-A restaurant located at 2319 Troy Road, Edwardsville, temporarily closed due to a boil order on Thursday morning, Feb. 6, 2025. However, at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, the restaurant reopened, initially with drive-thru only. In a statement, Chick-fil-A expressed its commitment to safety earlier in the day and said at that time: “We are working to reopen safely as soon as possible.” The restaurant also acknowledged the impact of the closure on its customers, adding, “We apologize for the inconvenience and look forward to serving you soon.

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Representatives Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) and Johnny Olszewski (D-MD-2) today introduced bicameral legislation aimed at reducing gun violence by preventing the theft of firearms from federally-licensed gun dealers (FFLs). The Safety Enhancements for Communities Using Reasonable and Effective (SECURE) Firearm Storage Act would address the problem of “smash and grab” gun store burglaries by requiring all firearms to be securely stored when a federally-licensed gun dealer is not open for business. Additionally, the bill would authorize the Attorney General to review and put forth additional security measures to reduce the risk of theft, and require a new section on the FFL application for an applicant to describe security plans before a license can be approved. Gun thefts from FFLs are a significant problem across the country. In 2023, FFL

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ST. LOUIS – Following an 11-year-low in homicides in 2024, the City of St. Louis experienced a continued decrease in violent and property crimes in January of 2025, with the number of homicides committed in the City decreasing by 55% compared to January of 2024. “Each life lost or affected by crime is one too many, so these continued improvements encourage us to keep the momentum going,” said Mayor Tishaura O. Jones. “We will keep building a safer St. Louis with the help of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the Circuit Attorney’s Office, the Office of Violence Prevention, and our community partners. I invite legislators in Jefferson City to take a look at this month’s report and the data available on our police department’s website.” According to the National Incident Based Reporting System (NIBRS) January report , available at slmpd.org/stats , there were nine homicides in the City in January 2025, down from 20 in the

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CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Justice has initiated a lawsuit against the state of Illinois and the city of Chicago, alleging that their “sanctuary” policies obstruct federal immigration enforcement. The suit names several officials, including Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, and Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, among others. The 23-page lawsuit asserts that state laws are “designed to and in fact interfere with and discriminate against the federal government’s enforcement of federal immigration law in violation of the Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution.” It contends that both Pritzker and Johnson, in their official capacities, claim to share an interest with the federal government in enforcing immigration laws to facilitate the removal of offenders from the United States. According to the lawsuit, “The challenged provisions of Illinois, Chicago, and Cook County law reflect their intentional

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CHICAGO – The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) announced it is accepting applications from eligible local governments and nonprofit organizations to participate in the state’s Home Repair and Accessibility Program (HRAP). Through HRAP, IHDA will provide funding to approved agencies who will then provide grants to low- and extremely low-income homeowners to make health and safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency repairs to their homes. “Many homeowners are forced to prioritize their spending causing many to delay vital and necessary home repairs leading to a potentially unsafe environment for them and their families,” said IHDA Executive Director Kristin Faust. “It is imperative that our low-income and aging populations live in healthy, stable housing. I encourage local governments and nonprofit organizations apply for HRAP so they can receive and then provide this vital assistance to help vulnerable homeowners in their communities.”

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ALTON - AmeriCorps’ Foster Grandparent program at Senior Services Plus, Inc. is seeking Senior volunteers to mentor children for both Alton and Centralia, Illinois sites. Foster Grandparents volunteer 15-40 hours per week at area public schools, after school programs, etc., serving as role models, mentors, and friends to children with exceptional needs. The program provides ways for adults aged 55 and over to stay healthy and active both mentally and physically, opportunities for self-improvement and building new skills, and making connections throughout the community. Educators and program directors also benefit from Foster Grandparents, as busy classrooms and after school programs can be difficult for children to receive one-on-one attention. "Grandma Charlene is such a blessing to our learning community,” says Candice Wallace, a teacher at East Elementary in Alton. “She assists myself and our students in many ways each and every day. It is hard to just single ou

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SWANSEA - Attorney General Kwame Raoul today announced that a St. Clair County man was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to the dissemination of child sexual abuse material. The case is part of Raoul’s ongoing work, in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies and local law enforcement officials throughout Illinois, to apprehend offenders who download and trade child pornography online. Raoul’s office prosecuted Elijah I. Ames, 19, of Swansea, Illinois, who was sentenced on Wednesday by St. Clair County Circuit Court Judge Robert Haida after pleading guilty in November 2024 to two Class X felony counts of dissemination of child sexual abuse material. “This sentence represents justice for minor victims who have been exploited and abused,” Raoul said. “My office’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force works tirelessly to identify and track down individuals who download or trade these horrific photos and videos,

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CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and First Lady MK Pritzker announced an open call for poets statewide to apply to be considered as the next Illinois Poet Laureate. The Illinois Poet Laureate is an honorary state position appointed by the Governor, tasked with promoting access to literary arts and raising awareness through statewide community engagement. The Office of the Governor is partnering with the Illinois Arts Council, Illinois Humanities, and the Poetry Foundation to collaborate on the search process and in supporting the position. “The selection of a poet laureate is a unique opportunity to bring awareness to our state’s rich history of literary arts and shine a spotlight on the amazing poets that call Illinois home,” said Governor JB Pritzker and First Lady MK Pritzker. “We were proud to name Angela Jackson as Illinois Poet Laureate in 2020 and are excited to review another group of amazingly talented candidates to select from.” Illinois

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ALTON — A move this week by Mac's Pizza and Poker to donate lunch to the Alton Police Department is a prime example of what a business can do to fully serve the community. The Alton Police Department expressed gratitude this week to Mac's Pizza and Poker for providing lunch to officers, highlighting the importance of community support for local law enforcement. The event took place as part of a broader effort to foster relationships between the police and the community they serve. The lunch, which included pizza and calzones, was delivered to the department on an unspecified date. Officers noted that such gestures of kindness from local businesses are appreciated and contribute significantly to morale. "A huge shoutout to Mac's Pizza and Poker for bringing down some delicious pizza and calzones for lunch today," the police department said in a statement. "Your generosity and support mean the world to us, and we truly appreciate the kindness you show to our department." Rob Lenhardt

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Letter To The Editor: Nothing but love for the public worker. This is a spiritual story so if it's not to your liking please scroll on by. My morning walks consist of about two hours of walking alone in the dark, listening to podcasts, recalling conversations on various topics, and arguments on such topics, both real and imaginary. I have several scenarios playing in my head, and I frequently go down each avenue thinking what if I had only said this or that? You never know the results until the conclusion, so we keep prodding along, doing our best. Yesterday I received God's message, and because of my anger, I almost missed it. It wasn't God who spoke to me it was a Golf Course Supervisor, but it was God's wisdom that was left with me. Yesterday, on my way to the park I noticed cans and trash scattered along the road, so I parked my truck and started picking it up. In a short time, I picked up three bags of mostly beer cans. I have no idea what beer they sell at the Golf course

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WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) outlined her key priorities for the upcoming tax package in the 119th Congress by submitting testimony to the House Ways & Means Committee. With the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) later this year, Congress faces the critical task of shaping the next phase of tax policy. Budzinski is advocating for measures that will not only enhance American competitiveness but also prioritize the needs of working families in her district and across the nation. “These changes will support American workers, encourage agricultural innovation, and expand apprenticeship opportunities. I championed these initiatives during my first term and I’m excited to continue advocating for them this Congress,” said Congresswoman Budzinski . “I came to Congress to fight for working families. The best way to do that is through a tax code that prioritizes the needs of working people by investing in workforc

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SPRINGFIELD – On Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025, the entire Illinois House Republican Caucus walked out of legislative session in protest of politically motivated resolutions introduced by Illinois House Democrats. In response, State Representative Amy Elik (R-Alton) released the following statement: "House Republicans stand united in refusing to take part in the House Democrats’ political grandstanding and theater. We are here and ready to do the work of Illinois, and we will not be pawns in their political games." More information about Rep. Elik can be found at RepElik.com

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY — The St. Louis County Police Department is investigating a shooting that led to the death of a 14-year-old male in the 11000 block of Criterion Avenue in St. Louis County. The incident occurred on Jan. 26, 2025, at approximately 4:15 p.m., when police responded to a call regarding a shooting in the area. Upon arrival, officers found Dae’wan Lindsay, a resident of the same block, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was immediately transported to a local hospital for emergency treatment. Unfortunately, on Feb. 4, 2025, Lindsay succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. A 15-year-old juvenile was taken into custody following the incident but has since been released. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting is ongoing, with detectives from the Bureau of Crimes Against Persons leading the efforts. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this incident to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210.

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ALTON - The Alton Community Service League (ACSL) is pleased to announce that it is now accepting Grant Applications from 501C3 organizations. The objectives of ACSL are to render volunteer service and financial support to the Greater Alton Area. Support for projects in the areas of: Civic, Cultural, Education, Health and Welfare, Youth, and Area Beautification are considered. The amount of financial support given is dependent upon the amount available through ACSL’s charitable fundraising efforts. ACSL does not fund political parties or activities, churches or church programs, United Way funded Projects, and any grant request to establish a program in the organization’s name. Organizations wishing to seek a grant may contact Carol Morris for an application at cmorris191@sbcglobal.net . Applications must be postmarked or e-mailed by March 10. ACSL’s last fundraiser of the current League year will be a Speakeasy Concert and Swing Dance to be held on February 21, 2025.

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SPRINGFIELD — Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS), a leading Catholic health ministry with operations in Illinois and Wisconsin, announced today that Dr. Douglas Barton has been named Southern Illinois Market Chief Medical Officer. He will join HSHS on Feb. 10. HSHS has a hospital in O'Fallon, IL. In this role, Dr. Barton will be leading and coordinating medical staff operations at HSHS ministries in the Southern Illinois Market, which includes HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese, HSHS Holy Family Hospital in Greenville and HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Highland. Dr. Barton is an experienced physician executive with a proven record of improving hospital-wide patient outcomes at multiple health care systems. He is also accomplished at collaborating with community and cross-continuum partners, achieving improved patient outcomes. Dr. Barton comes to HSHS having most recently served as interim CMO a

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EAST ST. LOUIS – Three men were sentenced to prison for their roles in a scheme involving counterfeit credit and debit cards used to defraud gas station patrons. U.S. District Judge Stephen P. McGlynn imposed the sentences on Monday in southern Illinois, highlighting the seriousness of the financial crimes. Dee E. Day, 31, of Belleville, received a 30-month prison sentence and was ordered to pay $14,295 in restitution. Marquise Q. Golliday, 29, of Collinsville, and Montuelle F. Wright, 33, of East St. Louis, were each sentenced to 28 months in prison. All three men pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, access device fraud, and aggravated identity theft. “Financial exploitation and identity theft crimes are serious offenses with lasting effects on victims, but thankfully, our law enforcement partners worked swiftly to disband this criminal ring,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. Court documents reveal that the defendants utilized counterfeit

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Did you know that the global cryptocurrency market cap surpassed $2 trillion in 2021, with Bitcoin alone accounting for nearly half of that value? Despite the volatility that characterizes this digital asset class, such staggering numbers reflect a seismic shift in how we perceive and utilize money today. Cryptocurrency is no longer just a fringe financial phenomenon; it is becoming a cornerstone of the modern economy. But what does this mean for consumers, investors, and businesses alike? The Rise of Cryptocurrency The inception of cryptocurrency can be traced back to Bitcoin, introduced in 2009 by an anonymous figure known as Satoshi Nakamoto. Designed as a decentralized digital currency, Bitcoin aimed to remove intermediaries in financial transactions. Since then, thousands of alternative cryptocurrencies—often referred to as "altcoins"—have emerged, each designed to serve specific purposes ranging from enabling smart contracts to providing privacy in transactions.

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