The idea of putting people into prisons is that, some day, they will get out and become better citizens.… MORE
Category Archives: Politics
Pritzker: State and municipal workers could be laid off without federal aid
Expect more unemployment – this time in the public sector – unless help comes from Washington.… MORE
Will there be a second COVID-19 stimulus?
While Democrats and Republics remain locked on a second Coronavirus relief bill, an Illinois’ senior U.S. Senator says the next bill relies on bi-partisan effort.… MORE
McLean County Board member resigning for new job
A Democrat on the McLean County Board says he has submitted his resignation letter effective September 30.… MORE
Investigative committee in contact with U.S. attorney Lausch
There’s some progress to report in the work of the special committee investigating Commonwealth Edison and House Speaker Mike Madigan (D-Chicago).… MORE
Teachers say it’s hard to detect signs of neglect in virtual learning
If the teacher and student are in the same room, it’s easier to detect signs of neglect or abuse. A panel of state senators Monday heard about the problems distance learning creates.… MORE
Plans for first cannabis dispensary on Monday’s Bloomington city council agenda
Bloomington will have its first cannabis dispensary if the city council approves the request Monday night.… MORE
Special committee investigating ComEd and Madigan had its first meeting
The chairman of the special investigative committee examining Commonwealth Edison and House Speaker Mike Madigan (D-Chicago) sounds as if he is pumping the brakes.… MORE
Normal Council moves closer to raising local gas tax
A narrow majority of Normal Town Council members appear ready to support doubling the local gasoline tax to help pay for road projects, and perhaps boost the town’s contribution to Connect Transit.… MORE
Bloomington entrepreneur to announce bid for Ward 5 city council seat
Another candidate is stepping in to join the race next year for Ward 5 Bloomington alderman.… MORE
Blogs
Labor Day – Expanding voting rights for all
By Mike Matejka Because of COVID, there is no Labor Day Parade this year. It’s always a great event for our everyday workers to march proudly down the street and enjoys the festive crowd. If there had been a parade, this year’s Labor Day theme was to be “150 years of struggle: your right to vote.” …
Is federal mobilization the answer?
By Mike Matejka As President Donald Trump threatens to send federal marshals into Chicago, over the objections of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, recall another Illinois Governor who protested the incursion of armed federal personnel into the city. Those federal troops, rather than calming, escalated the situation, leading to deaths and violence. Illinois poet Vachel Lindsay…
In these troubled times, to my fellow white Americans
By Mike Matejka Our nation is at a unique watershed in human relations. African-Americans have been killed too many times in the past before George Floyd, but the response to this man’s death is international and all-encompassing. I was a grade-schooler during the Civil Rights 1960s. I watched Birmingham demonstrators hosed and the Selma – Montgomery…
Workers’ Memorial Day – Remember those whose job took their life
Looking around our community, when we say employer, most will respond to State Farm, Country, or Illinois State University. We too often forget those who are building our roads, serving our food, or our public employees. COVID-19 has made us more aware of the risk. Going to work every day for some people means…