August 29, 2025/
Illinois quick hits: Foreign national indicted for fraud; Chicago Public Schools budget approved
Foreign national indicted for fraud
A foreign national has been indicted in U.S. District Court in Chicago for allegedly defrauding numerous individuals out of at least $2.6 million and willfully evading income taxes.
Jawad Fakroune, 45, also known by “Angelino Escobar” and other names, is facing 15 federal counts of wire fraud and tax-related charges.
Chicago Public Schools budget approved
The Chicago Board of Education has adopted a $10.2 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2026.
The board voted 12-7 to approve the spending plan, which did not include a high-interest loan favored by Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Teachers Union.
Former chancellor dies
Former University of Illinois Chancellor Michael Aiken has died at the age of 93.
Aiken served as the school’s sixth chancellor from 1993 to 2001. U of I officials said he died Monday in Cody, Wyoming.
Events
Latest News Stories
Casey Council Meeting Briefs
July 4th Planning Begins: City Clerk Jeremy Mumford reminded the council that planning for the 4th of July celebration needs to begin soon. Mayor Mike Nichols asked the Downtown Improvement/Festivals...
Casey-Westfield Board Approves Major Technology Upgrades, Facility Improvements
The Casey-Westfield School Board approved significant technology and facility upgrades totaling more than $76,000 during Monday's meeting, while also addressing multiple personnel changes as the district prepares for summer construction...
Casey-Westfield Students Excel in Academics and Community Service
Casey-Westfield students demonstrated exceptional achievement across multiple areas while participating in unique educational experiences and community service initiatives, according to administrator reports from Monday's board meeting. High school students received...
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING BRIEFS
Summer Construction Planned: Major facility improvements begin after Memorial Day, with cafeterias closed June 2-17 for asbestos abatement and Agriculture/Industrial Arts Building without power for electrical upgrades. State Track Qualifiers:...
Casey-Westfield School Board Reorganizes Leadership, Seats New Member
The Casey-Westfield School Board completed its post-election reorganization Monday evening, maintaining current leadership while welcoming new member Mike Fouty and establishing committee assignments for the coming term. The organizational meeting...
SCHOOL BOARD BRIEFS
Election Results Certified: The April 1 school board election results were officially certified, with Mike Fouty joining as the new member after receiving 282 votes for a four-year term. Leadership...
Casey Completes $498,279 Housing Rehabilitation Grant Project
The City of Casey successfully completed a nearly half-million dollar housing rehabilitation program that brought nine homes up to code and assisted 19 low-to-moderate income residents, officials announced during a...
CITY MEETING BRIEFS
Grant Administration Success: The Coles County Regional Planning & Development Commission successfully administered the $498,279 housing rehabilitation grant with 100% of funds reaching qualifying low-to-moderate income households. No Resident Displacement:...
Casey-Westfield Board Approves $100,000+ in Technology and Facility Upgrades
The Casey-Westfield School Board approved more than $100,000 in technology purchases and facility improvements during Monday's meeting, while also addressing administrative cost limitations and preparing for new board member transitions....
Casey-Westfield Students Excel in Academics and Community Service
Casey-Westfield students demonstrated exceptional achievement across academic competitions, community service, and educational experiences, according to administrator reports presented during Monday's board meeting. High school students showcased academic excellence through multiple...
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING BRIEFS
Bond Funds Secured: The Series 2025 HLS Bonds closed April 15 with proceeds deposited at Casey State Bank and fully collateralized, advancing facility improvement projects. Board Transition Pending: New board...
Casey Council Approves Major Equipment Purchase, Awards Tree Removal Contracts
The Casey City Council authorized the purchase of a $191,537.50 hydro-vac truck and awarded contracts totaling more than $40,000 for tree and stump removal projects during Monday's meeting, while also...
Casey Committee Maintains Chicken Ban, Advances Planning Initiatives
Casey city committees addressed livestock regulations and economic development planning during meetings held before Monday's council session, with decisions that will affect both residential regulations and long-term community growth. The...