September 11, 2025/
Illinois quick hits: Freedom Caucus remembers Kirk; new chief judge for Cook County
Freedom Caucus remembers Kirk
The Illinois Freedom Caucus says members are “devastated and horrified” by the murder of conservative radio and podcast host Charlie Kirk.
Caucus members say Kirk was a Christian, a husband, a father and a patriot who helped advance conservatism in his home state.
Kirk was born in Illinois and launched Turning Point USA in the Land of Lincoln.
ISP asks for help with Decatur homicide investigation
The Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 5 is asking for the public’s assistance with the death investigation of 51-year-old James E. Taylor of Decatur.
Taylor was reported missing on May 12, 2023 and was found dead seven days later in a rural area near his home.
ISP special agents are investigating the death as a homicide.
New chief judge for Cook County
Longtime Cook County Chief Judge Timothy Evans is on his way out.
Judges in the county’s circuit court Wednesday elected Charles Beach over Evans, who was seeking his ninth term, by a vote of 144 to 109.
Beach’s first term is slated to begin Dec. 1.
Events
Latest News Stories
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...
CITY MEETING BRIEFS
Pond Project Installation: The valve structure for the park pond project arrived Tuesday with installation work beginning this week, continuing progress on the recreational facility enhancement. Sidewalk Bids Scheduled: Contractor...
Casey Council Approves Union Contract, Issues Historic Founding Day Proclamation
The Casey City Council approved a tentative agreement with the ICOP Union and signed a proclamation commemorating the city's founding during Monday's meeting, while also advancing several business and infrastructure...
Casey Schedules Public Input on Comprehensive Plan Update
Casey residents will have the opportunity to provide input on the city's comprehensive plan update during a public meeting scheduled for April 22nd from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Economic Development...
CITY MEETING BRIEFS
Ordinance Changes Considered: Alderman Richardson reported a citizen inquiry about allowing chickens within city limits, with an ordinance committee meeting planned to discuss potential changes to current regulations. Emergency Sirens...
Casey-Westfield Board Approves $4.5 Million Bond Issue with Local Banks
The Casey-Westfield School Board unanimously approved a $4.5 million bond issue for fire prevention, safety improvements, and building renovations during Monday's meeting, with financing arranged through three local banks at...
Legislative Concerns and Athletic Policy Changes Address School Operations
Casey-Westfield school officials are monitoring state legislative developments that could affect district operations, while also adapting to new athletic association policies for private school competition. Superintendent Mike Shackelford alerted board...
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING BRIEFS
Technology Infrastructure Critical: The 9-year-old junior/senior high server replacement was urgently needed due to memory loss, 95% capacity usage, and daily error codes threatening system failure. Local Banking Partnership: Three...
Casey Approves Historical Society Parade, Adds Employee Medical Benefits
The Casey City Council formally approved the Casey Historical Society Parade for May 10th and enhanced employee benefits by adding AirMedCare membership during Monday's meeting, while also advancing comprehensive planning...
Casey Advances Comprehensive Planning with Public Input Planned
Casey is moving forward with a comprehensive update to its long-range planning efforts, with public participation opportunities scheduled for April as the city works toward adopting a new comprehensive plan...
CITY MEETING BRIEFS
Summer Cleanup Scheduled: The annual city-wide cleanup will run June 7th through June 14th, with Utility Superintendent Biggs also announcing plans to advertise for summer help positions. Storm Response Active:...
Casey Police Face Staffing Changes as Officer Resigns, New Recruit Advances
The Casey Police Department is navigating personnel transitions after an officer submitted his resignation, while a new recruit continues progressing through the academy, Chief Adam Henderson reported during Monday's city...