Metro East Sun

Illinois State Police Trooper Corey Thompsen was struck and killed by a truck driver in Champaign County on Friday. The 28-year-old's death has been met with condolences from Rep. Amy Elik, who expressed her sympathies to Thompsen’s family, friends, and the law enforcement community.

In other activities around the district, October marks Manufacturing Month. Rep. Elik joined the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association for their 'Makers on the Move' tour in the 111th district, visiting Alton Steel and America’s Central Port. She also attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Senator Erica Harriss at the newly renovated "One Stop Shop" Bethalto DMV, highlighting improvements aimed at reducing wait times through new technology and employee cross-training.

Rep. Elik toured Riverbend Head Start to observe its facilities and acknowledge its contributions to the region. Additionally, she gave recognition to her office staff for their efforts during AHS' Homecoming Week celebrations.

Addressing economic concerns, Rep. Elik noted significant increases in grocery prices over the past three years: milk prices have risen by 23%, bread by 28%, beef by 31%, and eggs by 46%. She stressed the need for controlling inflation to stabilize the economy.

In legal news, jury selection has concluded in former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's corruption case after intensive questioning of potential jurors since October 8 at Dirksen U.S. Courthouse. The trial is expected to last about 11 weeks under U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey's oversight.

Rep. Elik highlighted ongoing efforts for ethics reform with House Bill 4119 prohibiting elected officials from using campaign donations for criminal defense costs and House Bill 1277 proposing suspension of pension benefits if charged with a felony.

Meanwhile, early voting has expanded across Madison County this week as citizens prepare for upcoming elections.