August 7, 2025/

Illinois quick hits: Cook County declares flood disaster; opt-out forms promoted; State Fair begins

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By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

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.

Events

Haunted Night at the Fair
Haunted Night at the Fair
25 Oct 25
Halloween Party
Halloween Party
25 Oct 25
2025 Clark County Shrine Pagent
2025 Clark County Shrine Pagent
26 Oct 25
Rainy Day Miracle Book Signing
Rainy Day Miracle Book Signing
28 Oct 25
BROWNIE'S PLACE HALLOWEEN PARTY
BROWNIE'S PLACE HALLOWEEN PARTY
31 Oct 25
Harvest Gift Gathering
Harvest Gift Gathering
1 Nov 25
Harvest Gift Gathering
Harvest Gift Gathering
1 Nov 25
Casey
03 Nov
Casey City Council Board Meeting
3 Nov 25
Clark County 4-H Foundation Inaugural Christmas Tree Fair
Clark County 4-H Foundation Inaugural Christmas Tree Fair
5 Nov 25
Whte Oak Church Free Monday Meal
Whte Oak Church Free Monday Meal
10 Nov 25
Greenup VFW Fundraiser
Greenup VFW Fundraiser
16 Nov 25
Prime Rib Holiday Buffet
Prime Rib Holiday Buffet
18 Nov 25

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