(SPRINGFIELD) Gas prices continue to rise in the Land of Lincoln, according to the Triple A Motor Club. In fact, gasoline prices have gone up nearly 24 cents per gallon in the past week with the average gas price in Illinois at $3.76 a gallon, compared to a national average at $3.39 per gallon. With Illinois’ highest price for gas in Cook County about $4.00 a gallon, the state’s cheapest gas is found in Monroe County, south of the Metro East Area, at $3.34 per gallon. The downstate area average gas prices are ranging from $3.40 to $3.70 a gallon.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity is asking folks around the state to document their internet speeds for a map challenge sponsored through the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. Officials say the results will help create a more accurate map of unserved and underserved areas for internet access across Illinois. The state will then disburse internet access funding for places that need it the most. Learn more online, at the www.dceo.illinois.gov website.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Senate has approved a plan to phase in an elected School Board in Chicago. The measure has voters this year choosing 10 school board members with Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson appointing the other 10 members. Then in 2026, voters would then select all 20 board members. The bill now goes to the State House for a vote.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois State Fair has revealed the headline act for this year’s event. Singer/Songwriter Keith Urban will perform Friday night, August 9th, with special guest MacKenzie Porter. The popular musician was just last year inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Ticket sales will begin this Saturday morning at 10:00. Go online at TicketMaster.com. The Illinois State Fair will run August 8th through the 18th.