(SPRINGFIELD) A new survey shows that tarriff-related anxiety is surging among small businesses in Illinois and elsewhere. Research from the Alignable Group, in collaboration with Harvard Business School and MIT researchers, shows 44% of small business owners nationwide said they expect reduced sales because of the tariffs, and of those, 13% expect significant revenue drops. However, over half expect a reversal after the initial first year.
(SPRINGFIELD) Some are calling out a recently passed bill in the Illinois House aimed at banning the use of native-themed school mascots and logos as an unserious mandate that places a political agenda over real outcomes. The measure allows schools to continue to use previously purchased uniforms and other materials that include Native American mascots until the year 2030. While the bill’s upstate sponsor says its all to save the mental health of students, those opposed to the plan say such mascots are more importantly about school and community pride and history. About 90 school districts in Illinois would be affected.
(CHICAGO) Indiana lawmakers have passed legislation in an effort to lure the Chicago Bears to the Hoosier State. The measure approved last week creates a professional sports development commission in Indiana, which would form a plan for attracting a professional sports franchise to northwest Indiana. While the Bears spent $197 million for the former Arlington International Racecourse in 2023 and decided not to build a facility there, it now appears that the team’s latest venture for a lakefront stadium has hit a major roadblock.
(MASCOUTAH) MidAmerica St. Louis Airport is expanding. A general aviation facility will be constructed in two phases starting next month and enable the Illinois airport to process international and commercial flights. The project will also allow for an increase in the number of destinations and flights available for travelers in the future with work expected to be complete by the end of this year. The airport is located just north of Mascoutah.