Illinois quick hits: Cook County declares flood disaster; opt-out forms promoted; State Fair begins
Cook County, Chicago declare flood disaster
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle have issued respective disaster proclamations for flooding that took place July 25-28.
According to resident survey information, 111 residences were considered to be destroyed and 544 homes had major damage.
City and county agencies are working to determine if the jurisdictions could qualify for federal assistance.
Opt-out forms promoted
After Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed legislation to implement universal mental health screenings in public schools, the Illinois Family Institute is encouraging parents to opt out of programs and agendas which they said could be harmful to children.
The group said Christian parents should be especially alert to the assessment of their children’s well-being through the lens of secular ideologies.
The institute offers links to various opt-out forms on its website.
State Fair begins
The Illinois State Fair is underway in Springfield.
Thursday’s events include harness racing, $3 carnival rides and the Twilight Parade at 5:30 p.m.
The fair runs through Aug. 17.
Latest News Stories
Jackson Township Prepares for Property Viability Pole Relocation, Addresses Northpoint Traffic Control
Manhattan School District Explores Alternative Transportation Amid Lincoln-Way Bus Challenges
Manhattan Ranked 6th Safest City in Illinois; Police Chief Warns of Traffic Accidents
Manhattan Township Assessor Initiates $13,500 Software Upgrade Amid Office Transition
Manhattan and New Lenox Renew Boundary Agreement Through 2046
Manhattan Board Approves Route 52 Safety Study and Multi-Use Path Engineering
State of the College: Local Legislators Bolster Student Support Services
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Public Health & Safety Committee for February 5, 2026
State of the College: Dual Credit Program Enrollment Hits 6,000 Students
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Finance Committee for February 3, 2026
Fairmont Neighborhood Plan Update Prioritizes Infrastructure and Beautification Following Demographic Shift
Health & Safety Committee: Monee Church Kitchen Project Highlighted in County Health Impact Report