McLean County Times

This week, several significant events and updates marked Illinois, ranging from legislative victories to sporting achievements.

In the legislative realm, the Homeschool Act was not brought to the House floor, attributing the delay to over 130,000 signed opposition slips from homeschoolers and parental rights advocates across the state. While this does not mark the end of the bill, Rep. Tipsword considered it a significant victory.

On the House floor, Representative Tipsword had the opportunity to meet NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion Justin Allgaier. Allgaier, who has secured 27 wins in his 16-year career, was recognized for his achievements.

With the Real ID deadline approaching in a month, residents may wish to check whether they need one immediately, as reported by NBC Chicago. Additionally, NBC Chicago also provided guidance for those still awaiting their tax refunds, offering details on state and federal tax return statuses.

Amid state budget discussions, tensions arose as the Governor challenged Democrat colleagues to identify areas for spending cuts. Despite Illinois facing the highest effective tax rates nationwide, solutions remain elusive, with the Governor remarking, "People aren’t showing up at my door with proposed cuts."

In the world of sports and outdoors, Illinois youth turkey hunters broke the harvest record, an event covered by WMIX. In basketball, Metamora senior Matthew Zobrist received acclaim, being named to the Class 3A All-State Boys Basketball Team and awarded the Class 3A Steve Tappa Player of the Year. Accomplishments like these highlight the talent in Illinois' sports landscape.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has invited waterfowl hunters to public open houses to provide feedback on hunting-related issues, as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times.

Anticipation builds as Route 66 approaches its 100-year anniversary next year, with preparations underway for the centennial celebrations, reported by FOX 32 Chicago.

In industrial news, the Aerial Firefighting Helicopter Refill Pump won the title of "Coolest Thing Made in Illinois" for 2025, illustrating innovative contributions within the state.

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