December 2025

Illinois State Fair announces digital ticketing for 2026

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Following a successful trial in 2025, the Illinois State Fair is transitioning to digital ticketing for 2026. This modernization will provide guests with a more convenient, secure, and streamlined entry process. “The Illinois State Fair is stepping into the future,” said Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II. “Digital ticketing represents our commitment to […]

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Missouri Safer Communities Act will protect houses of worship and vulnerable communities

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Representative Ray Reed has introduced the Missouri Safer Communities Act (HB 2519), a comprehensive proposal to protect houses of worship, LGBTQ+ community centers, and other vulnerable institutions; strengthen hate-crime prevention; and ensure victims receive the support and dignity they deserve. “At a time when fear and division too often threaten to

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Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control investigates death in Bourbon, Mo.

JEFFERSON CITY – On December 27, 2025, the Bourbon Police Department requested the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC) investigate a death, which occurred at a residence in Bourbon, MO.   On December 27, 2025, at approximately 10:30 p.m., the Bourbon Police Department responded to a residence located in the 100

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NFIB launches voting hub to empower Illinois small business owners

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Illinois’ leading small business advocacy organization, recently announced the launch of its new, comprehensive NFIB Voting Hub to ensure that small business owners nationwide are equipped to participate fully in upcoming state and federal elections.   “Illinois small business owners are constantly battling complicated regulations and burdensome

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Patrol reports 10 fatalities; no drownings, no boating crashes over 2025 Christmas holiday

JEFFERSON CITY – The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports 10 persons died in traffic crashes during this year’s Christmas holiday counting period–from 6 p.m. Wednesday, December 24, 2025, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, December 28, 2025.   There were no boating crashes or drownings.   During the Christmas holiday counting period, troopers report the following traffic

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Ring in the New Year on safe, sober note if you are getting behind the wheel

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and law enforcement agencies throughout the state are joining forces to increase patrols focused on impaired drivers, seat belt violations, distracted driving and speeding as 2025 comes to a close. Whether you’re traveling a short or long distance the goal is for everyone to arrive to

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State Representative David Friess reports on 2025 activity

RED BUD – In 2025, my office delivered real results—sponsoring key legislation, helping constituents with casework, and putting money back in their pockets. We connected with residents everywhere, from town halls and classrooms to local events across the district.     Thank you to everyone who reached out, showed up, and keeps our community strong.

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