(SPRINGFIELD) Illinois businesses are moving to other states at triple the rate they did before the pandemic, that’s according to new research from the Illinois Policy Institute. In 2023, at least 218 businesses left Illinois, more than any state in the nation after New York & California. Despite having the most business applications filed in the Midwest, only 5.6% of applicants in Illinois actually opened a business and became operational within 12 month.
(CHICAGO) U.S. District Court Judge John Robert Blakey has denied former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s request to stay out of prison while he appeals his federal conviction on 10 counts of public corruption. In a 44-page document, the Judge wrote that Madigan failed to meet his burden to show that his appeal would raise a substantial question of law or fact. Madigan was sentenced to 7.5 years in prison to begin in October.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Attorney General’s Office is one of 50 attorneys general urging the U.S. Department of Justice to address the spread of illegal offshore gaming operations across the country. Officials say illegal online sports betting and gaming operations are largely operated by foreign-based companies that are not licensed and not paying taxes.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois State Fair is continuing in Springfield as today is Governor’s Day on the fairgrounds with special harness racing, the Governor’s Sale of Champions, more tractor & truck pulling tonight, and on the Grandstand stage at 8:00 is Snoop Dogg. Then tomorrow will be Republican Day with more livestock shows, a free concert at the Grand Central Stage with Illinois native rock band Head East, and on the Grandstand stage tomorrow night at 8:00 it’s Brad Paisley with Tucker Wetmore. Friday is First Responder Day & Healthcare Heroes Day with free admission for all police officers, firefighters, EMT’s, and Healthcare Workers who show their badge at the gate. With more livestock shows, it’s The Chainsmokers on the Grandstand stage at 8:00. Not to mention the many outdoor activities at Conservation World, with other live entertainment, carnival rides, games, and all the great fair food concessions. Learn more on the statefair.illinois.gov website.