John McCain Endorses Mark Kirk For Senate In Glenview
Sen. John McCain swung through the northern suburbs on Sunday to headline a fundraiser and formally endorse fellow GOP Rep. Mark Kirk for U.S. Senate. "Mark Kirk will restore honest government to Illinois, strengthen our national security, fight for veterans, and bring fiscal discipline to Washington," the former presidential candidate told a gathering of veterans in Glenview.

Sales Tax On Booze, Candy To Rise
On Tuesday, Illinois consumers will see an increase in taxes on products like alcohol, candy, personal hygiene items, and soft drinks as part of the state's effort to fund a statewide construction plan. Although the price of beer will only be marginally effected, many owners of small liquor stores around Chicago are unhappy about the tax increase during a recession.

Quinn Shuts Troubled Developmental Center
Gov. Pat Quinn on Friday announced plans to close the struggling Howe Developmental Center in Tinley Park, which has faced allegations of abuse and neglect as well as the loss of millions in Medicaid funding. By next year, the center's 251 disabled residents will be relocated, but almost 700 staff members will lose their jobs.

Quinn Vetoes STAR Bond Bill
Gov. Quinn also used his amendatory veto power to alter a bill designed to enable controversial STAR bonds. The governor said Friday he wants changes to the amount and type of costs for what the Sales Tax Revenue bonds can pay.

Meeks' Quiet Meeting With County Board Candidates
Concerned that the four African-American Democrats seeking the Cook County Board presidency could split the black vote and clear the way for a white candidate, State Sen. James Meeks met with the field a few weeks ago to make sure the candidates did not say anything disparaging about each other. He also pressed one or more candidates to discontinue their campaigns.

Image used under a Creative Commons license by Flickr user justinrudisille.