August 21, 2025/
Illinois quick hits: Anti-SLAPP bill signed; Chicago schools settles meditation case

Illinois quick hits: Anti-SLAPP bill signed; Chicago schools settles meditation case

By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

Anti-SLAPP bill signed

Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signed legislation to protect news media from strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPP).

The governor said Senate Bill 1181 will ensure that the press won’t have to fear retaliation for telling the truth.

The measure takes effect immediately.

Chicago schools settles meditation case

A court-approved settlement of over $2.6 million is now being paid to 207 former Chicago Public School high school students who were required to participate in a transcendental meditation program during class.

Plaintiffs’ attorneys say the students’ rights were disregarded by the Chicago Board of Education, and students were coerced to practice a worldview that was in conflict with their faith.

Du Quoin State Fair begins

Friday is Day One and Family Night at the Du Quoin State Fair.

Now in its 102nd year, the fair features music, livestock shows, auto and harness racing, rodeos and agricultural exhibits.

The Du Quoin State Fair runs from Aug. 22 through Sept. 1.

Events

Absent Ground @ Casey Popcorn Festival
Absent Ground @ Casey Popcorn Festival
29 Aug 25
All 90s Trivia at Casey Popcorn Festival
All 90s Trivia at Casey Popcorn Festival
30 Aug 25
Casey Popcorn Festival Jeep Showdown
Casey Popcorn Festival Jeep Showdown
30 Aug 25
Tyler Farr at Casey Popcorn Festival
Tyler Farr at Casey Popcorn Festival
31 Aug 25
Emo Night LIVE w/ All American Throwbacks
Emo Night LIVE w/ All American Throwbacks
31 Aug 25
Colton Dixon at Popcorn Festival
Colton Dixon at Popcorn Festival
1 Sep 25
01 Sep
Casey City Council Board Meeting
1 Sep 25
Bird of the Fall - winging it
Bird of the Fall - winging it
6 Sep 25
Chances R Second Annual Jeep Run
Chances R Second Annual Jeep Run
6 Sep 25
Whte Oak Church Free Monday Meal
Whte Oak Church Free Monday Meal
8 Sep 25
76th Annual Clark Couty 4-H BBQ
76th Annual Clark Couty 4-H BBQ
13 Sep 25
The Quiver and Bow
The Quiver and Bow
4 Oct 25

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