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Wages rose sharply in Q4

5 months 3 weeks ago
Wages went up at a very healthy rate in the final quarter of 2024: 2.8% for men and 2.1% for women. As usual, this is good news and bad news. It's good news for workers but bad news for the Fed, which will take this as a sign of inflation and keep interest rates high.
Kevin Drum

Executive Disorder

5 months 3 weeks ago
President Musk is running the government like he ruined Twitter.
Prospect Staff

Rising Concern Over Inhalant Abuse Among Young People

5 months 3 weeks ago
It’s nothing new. But in today’s digital age it’s something young people may be exposed to more. We’re talking about sniffing products like paint, markers or nail polish for a temporary high. You might hear it called huffing, chroming or, in the medical community, inhalant abuse. Health care providers like Justin Rapoff, DO, an emergency medicine physician who sees patients at OSF HealthCare, are again reminding parents about the serious health impacts of this activity and what to do if your child shows symptoms. It’s especially important for kids to steer clear, he says, because their organs are still developing. An interruption to that development could mean trouble. Young people can also be more susceptible to peer pressure, giving in when other kids tell them to try something. “Inhalant abuse is common because these are things that are easily found in your house," Dr. Rapoff adds. “They’re underneath your kitchen sink and in your

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Steve Johnson's Legacy In Law Enforcement Celebrated On Feb. 1 At Belleville High Game

5 months 3 weeks ago
BELLEVILLE - Steve Johnson, a prominent figure in law enforcement and community service, will be inducted into the Belleville East Hall of Fame during halftime of the Althoff Catholic at Belleville East basketball game on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025. The event will celebrate Johnson’s extensive contributions to public safety and his enduring ties to the Belleville community. Throughout his career, Johnson has held various positions, including police chief in Swansea and currently in Fairview Heights. His leadership in law enforcement has garnered considerable recognition. He eventually had an invitation to join the 21st Century Policing Panel at the White House under President Barrack Obama. Born in St. Louis and raised in Belleville, Johnson has dedicated over 35 years to law enforcement. He began his career as a deputy service aide at the St. Clair County Sheriff's Office while pursuing his education. Johnson holds an associate’s degree in administration of justice from Southwestern

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Alton Board of Education Recognizes January's Optimist Students of the Month

5 months 3 weeks ago
ALTON - During their regular meeting on Jan. 21, 2025, the Alton Community Unit School District #11 Board of Education recognized the January Optimist Students of the Month. Henry Gabriel was recognized as the Optimist Student of the Month at Alton Middle School, and Kenlee Harrington was named the Optimist Student of the Month for Eunice Smith Elementary School. Dr. Brian Saenz, principal of Alton Middle School, introduced Gabriel as “a good role model for all students.” He is a “natural leader” who excels in class with a positive attitude. “He is kind to staff and his peers and is not only a great leader, but also a fantastic role model for other students,” Saenz said. “Henry is a bright, intelligent, funny and kind young man who is going to do great things in the future.” Gabriel is a member of the National Honor Society, the volleyball team and the yearbook club. Optimist Students of the Month receive a $25 gift card and

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