SUMMARY: The U.S. Senate’s agriculture committee, now chaired by Arkansas Senator John Boozman, has significant ties to major meatpacking companies like Tyson Foods, which has influenced his resistance to curbing their economic power. With Democrats also connected to agriculture firms, particularly Senator Amy Klobuchar’s ties to Cargill, the committee faces challenges in addressing ranchers’ concerns over market competition. Upcoming legislation, notably the Farm Bill, will need bipartisan support given the Senate’s split, though past collaboration has been strained. New leadership may shift priorities, focusing on issues like market competition and antitrust laws, impacting the agricultural landscape significantly.

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SUMMARY: Ozzie Smith, the Cardinals baseball legend, speaks with Margie Ellis from Fox Two about his involvement in the 2025 Wish Home Raffle, benefiting Make-A-Wish in Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas. Smith emphasizes the importance of supporting critically ill children, recalling how special it is to bring joy to their lives. He encourages buying raffle tickets, with all proceeds helping to fulfill the wishes of these children. Smith looks forward to the raffle drawing on February 27th in Choi, Illinois, and mentions the early bird prize of a Yamaha golf cart for tickets reserved by January 31st.

ST. LOUIS — ST. LOUIS — In support of Make-A-Wish Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas, FOX 2 is partnering with the Home Builders and Remodelers Charitable and Educational Foundation for the 2025 Wish Home Raffle.

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SUMMARY: A movement is growing in Illinois for counties to separate from Chicago and Cook County to form a new state. Supporters cite high taxes and reduced influence in the state capital as reasons for secession. Voters in 33 counties, including those in the St. Louis region, have approved non-binding measures for separation, and at least 48 counties are actively working on the issue. Indiana has proposed absorbing these counties, but some groups, like the State of New Illinois, want to form a separate state. Illinois Republican Rep. Charlie Meier supports county autonomy but doubts federal approval for secession.

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