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NFL reporter Dianna Russini has resigned from The Athletic less than a week after published photos of her and New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel at an Arizona resort prompted an internal investigation at The New York Times-owned sports outlet. The New York Post last week published the photos of Vrabel and Russini at the Sedona hotel and said they were taken before the NFL owners meetings that began in Phoenix on March 29. Russini joined The Athletic in 2023 after nearly a decade at ESPN, where she held various roles, including SportsCenter anchor, NFL analyst and insider. She hosted a podcast for The Athletic and made appearances on their video platform. Read moreNFL reporter Dianna Russini resigns from The Athletic after photos published of her with Mike Vrabel

7-Eleven expects to close hundreds of its convenience stores this year. According to earnings filings published last week, 7-Eleven’s North American operator plans to close 645 stores in the 2026 fiscal year — outpacing the 205 locations it forecasts it will open during that same time. Seven & i Holdings, the Japan-based parent of the convenience chain, noted that these closures “include the conversion to wholesale fuel stores.” The company did not specify which locations could be impacted. But the latest cuts arrive as higher prices strain consumers worldwide. Read more7-Eleven expects to close hundreds of its stores in North America this year

The Urbana Police Department is investing in both its officers and community relationships after securing a new grant aimed at improving trauma-informed care. The department received a $90,000 grant through the Total Access Collaborative for Trauma Informed Care program. The funding will be distributed over the next two years. Read moreUrbana Police receive grant to strengthen community partnerships and officer wellness

The Purple Coalition is demanding change outside the municipal building. Organizers are calling for accountability from the Springfield Police Department as community members and advocates prepare to voice their concerns over alleged misconduct and racial disparities within the department. Concerns were raised about the Springfield police officers' use of force and the alleged mistreatment of Black community members. Last week's city council meeting intensified these concerns for many. Read moreSpringfield advocates demand police accountability amid misconduct allegations

A new statewide poll shows strong bipartisan support for the proposed POWER Act, aimed at increasing oversight of data centers across Illinois. According to the survey, nearly 70 percent of likely 2026 voters support the legislation after hearing a brief description, with support climbing to 75 percent as voters learn more about the bill’s details. Backing spans across political parties, including Independents and Republicans, as well as voters outside the Chicagoland area. Read morePoll shows strong bipartisan support for Illinois POWER Act

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NFL reporter Dianna Russini has resigned from The Athletic less than a week after published photos of her and New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel at an Arizona resort prompted an internal investigation at The New York Times-owned sports outlet. The New York Post last week published the ph… Read moreNFL reporter Dianna Russini resigns from The Athletic after photos published of her with Mike Vrabel

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NFL reporter Dianna Russini has resigned from The Athletic less than a week after published photos of her and New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel at an Arizona resort prompted an internal investigation at The New York Times-owned sports outlet. The New York Post last week published the ph… Read moreNFL reporter Dianna Russini resigns from The Athletic after photos published of her with Mike Vrabel