Illinois quick hits: Anti-SLAPP bill signed; Chicago schools settles meditation case
August 21, 2025/
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.
⚠️ Tornado Watch issued June 11 at 2:02PM CDT until June 11 at 9:00PM CDT by NWS Chicago IL
⚠️ Flood Watch issued June 11 at 12:39PM CDT until June 11 at 11:00PM CDT by NWS Chicago IL
Thu Jun 11
79° 60°
Sunny
Latest News Stories
New Lenox Park District Secures $698,256 Bond Issue at 3.1% Interest Rate, Receives Moody’s Rating Upgrade
New Lenox Community Park District Board of Commissioners Meeting | January 21, 2026 Article Summary:The New Lenox Community Park District Board of Commissioners officially authorized a $698,256 General Obligation Limited...
New Lenox Library Completes Café Construction, Prepares for February Grand Opening
New Lenox Public Library District Board of Trustees Meeting | January 19, 2026 Article Summary:The New Lenox Public Library District has finalized the construction of its new in-house café, with...
New Lenox Fire Board Approves $3.1 Million Budget for Station 2 Construction
New Lenox Fire Protection District Board of Trustees Meeting | January 19, 2026 Article Summary:The New Lenox Fire Protection District Board of Trustees unanimously approved a $3.1 million construction budget...
Meeting Summary and Briefs: New Lenox Township Board of Trustees for January 8, 2026
New Lenox Township Board of Trustees Meeting | January 8, 2026 The New Lenox Township Board of Trustees kicked off its first meeting of the new year on Thursday, January...
New Lenox Township Food Pantry Reports Heavy December Demand, Secures New Community Partnerships
New Lenox Township Board of Trustees Meeting | January 8, 2026 Article Summary:New Lenox Township’s community services saw heavy utilization through the end of 2025, with the Food Pantry serving...
State of the College: Local Legislators Bolster Student Support Services
Joliet Junior College State of the College | February 4, 2026 Article Summary: Joliet Junior College recognized state legislators for their direct support of the Wolves Essential Pantry, which aids...
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Public Health & Safety Committee for February 5, 2026
Public Health & Safety Committee Meeting | February 5, 2026 Meeting SummaryThe Will County Board Public Health & Safety Committee met on Tuesday, February 5, 2026, to review departmental reports...
New Lenox Township Prepares to Defend Marshall Cemetery Boundaries Amid Mokena Annexation Proposal
New Lenox Township Board of Trustees Meeting | January 8, 2026 Article Summary:The New Lenox Township Board of Trustees is preparing to present formal concerns to the Village of Mokena...
State of the College: Dual Credit Program Enrollment Hits 6,000 Students
Joliet Junior College State of the College | February 4, 2026 Article Summary: The "12x12x12" dual credit initiative has driven a surge in high school participation, with nearly half of...
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Finance Committee for February 3, 2026
Finance Committee Meeting | February 3, 2026 The Will County Finance Committee met on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, to address critical facility needs and review the county's financial standing. The...
Fairmont Neighborhood Plan Update Prioritizes Infrastructure and Beautification Following Demographic Shift
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting | February 3, 2026 Article Summary: The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved an update to the Fairmont Neighborhood Plan, addressing significant demographic...
Meeting Summary and Briefs: New Lenox Village Board for February 9, 2026
New Lenox Village Board Meeting | February 9, 2026 The New Lenox Village Board of Trustees met on Monday, February 9, 2026, to handle a slate of contracts and financial...
Health & Safety Committee: Monee Church Kitchen Project Highlighted in County Health Impact Report
Public Health & Safety Committee Meeting | February 5, 2026 Article Summary: The Will County MAPP Collaborative presented its impact report, highlighting ARPA-funded community kitchen projects in Monee and Joliet...