Quincy Reporter

Jury selection has commenced in the trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Madigan, who faces 23 counts of racketeering, bribery, and official misconduct, was indicted in March 2022. The charges relate to his alleged involvement in a bribery scheme with Commonwealth Edison.

Madigan served in the Illinois House from 1971 until his resignation in 2021 and held the speakership for much of his tenure. He also chaired the Democratic Party of Illinois.

As the trial begins, Senate Republicans are advocating for comprehensive ethics reforms to prevent similar abuses of power. They have proposed several bills aimed at increasing accountability for public officials, including prohibiting elected officials from working as paid lobbyists and introducing campaign finance reforms.

The Veto Session is scheduled for November, and Republican lawmakers are pushing for immediate action on these issues.

In other news, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation warns families about an increase in scams targeting students with loans. Scammers promise lower rates or loan forgiveness and may request power-of-attorney. The department advises caution against immediate action requests or claims of government ties by servicers.

Those targeted by student loan scams should contact the Illinois Attorney General’s Student Loan Hotline at 1-800-455-2456 or visit their website to file a complaint.

October marks Infant Safe Sleep Awareness Month, promoting safe sleep practices to reduce Sudden Infant Death Syndrome risks. The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services advises following the ABCs: infants should sleep Alone on their Backs in a Crib that meets safety standards.

For assistance with infant sleep issues, contact pediatricians or the Fussy Baby Network at 1-888-431-BABY (2229).

Additionally, October is National Women’s Business Month. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity celebrates women-owned businesses' contributions by offering free events throughout October to support their growth.

Illinois deer hunting season has begun. Archery season runs from October 1 through January 19 east of Route 47; it follows similar dates west with breaks for firearm seasons starting mid-November. Firearm deer season occurs November 22-24 and December 5-8; muzzleloader-only season runs December 13-15.

Hunters must have valid licenses and permits, observe hunting hours from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset, wear visible clothing like pink or orange garments when hunting, and drive cautiously near deer crossing signs during this active period.

For more information on safe hunting practices in Illinois, visit https://dnr.illinois.gov/hunting.html.