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A regional journalism collaboration focused on expanding access to trusted, timely and relevant information across three key statewide topics: Education, Political Impact and Health/Environment

President Trump
Alex Brandon/AP

U.S. Launches Airstrikes Against Syria After Chemical Attack

Updated 8:37pm: President Trump has launched airstrikes in Syria in response to deadly chemical attacks allegedly ordered by the country's president, Bashar Assad, against his own people.

"Tonight I ordered a targeted military strike on the airfield in Syria from where the chemical attack was launched," the president announced from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Fla, where he is meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. "It is in this vital national security interest of the United States to prevent and deter the spread and use of deadly chemical weapons."

J.B. Pritzker talks with reporters
Tony Arnold/WBEZ

Pritzker Makes Campaign For Governor Official

Billionaire businessman J.B. Pritzker has made official his bid for Illinois governor. The Chicago Democrat tweeted Thursday that he was readying for "the big announcement" above a picture with his son holding a sign reading "J.B. for Governor." Pritzker's campaign confirmed the tweet ahead of a Thursday afternoon event in Chicago.

Alicia Beck, who won a District 2 seat on Champaign City Council Tuesday.
Alicia Beck/Facebook

New City Council Member Beck Wants Champaign To Become Sanctuary City

A newcomer to the Champaign City Council hopes to see the city offer the same protections for those living in the country illegally that Urbana officials have provided. Alicia Beck topped 32-year incumbent Michael LaDue Tuesday to win the District 2 council seat, 63 to 37 percent. Beck says some of her backers want Champaign to explore the idea of becoming a sanctuary city, which Urbana reaffirmed in late 2016.