McLean County Times

Friends, family, and supporters gathered at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, on September 21 to honor the life of Charlie Kirk. During the memorial service, Kirk’s wife Erika addressed those present: “That young man, I forgive him. I forgive him because it was what Christ did, and is what Charlie would do. The answer to hate is not to hate. The answer we know from the gospel is love and always love. Love for our enemies and love for those who persecute us.” Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema expressed agreement with her message and emphasized the importance of compassion and grace.

As harvest season progresses in Illinois, farmers are returning to their fields, resulting in increased agricultural equipment on rural roads. Motorists are urged to exercise caution due to slow-moving vehicles such as tractors and combines. According to a University of Illinois-Chicago study, there were nearly 530 crashes per year involving agricultural vehicles on Illinois roadways between 2018 and 2023. Balkema encouraged drivers to slow down and give farm equipment space while also advising farmers to use visible lights and signals.

The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) has announced a tax amnesty program this fall for eligible taxpayers with outstanding liabilities from June 30, 2018, through July 1, 2024. Penalties and interest will be forgiven if taxes are paid in full between October 1 and November 17. Property taxes as well as estate, franchise, and insurance taxes are not included in this program. Taxpayers may appeal IDOR decisions if necessary. No additional amnesty periods are planned unless further action is taken by the Illinois General Assembly. More information can be found at tax.illinois.gov/taxamnesty.

National Surgical Technologists Week is being observed from September 21–27 this year. Senator Balkema recognized surgical technologists’ essential role in maintaining sterile conditions during operations and supporting surgeons throughout procedures. He thanked them for their dedication to patient care.

Former Governor Jim Edgar died on September 14 at age 79 after battling pancreatic cancer. Edgar served as Illinois’s governor from 1991-1999 after earlier roles as a legislative intern, state representative, and secretary of state. He was known for his bipartisan leadership during events such as the Great Flood of 1993 and his efforts in budget reform, education, welfare policy, and child protection services. After leaving office, he continued public advocacy through initiatives like The Jim Edgar Fellow Program.

Senator Chris Balkema announced an open position for a Legislative Assistant in his office for those interested in public service within Illinois’s 53rd Senate District.

Balkema was elected as a Republican senator representing the district in 2025 after replacing Thomas M. Bennett.

Interested applicants can send cover letters and resumes to Mary Lou Frank at mfrank@sgop.ilga.gov.