Sangamon Sun

Jim Edgar, who served as the 38th Governor of Illinois from 1991 to 1999, died on September 14, 2025, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 79 years old.

State Senator Sally Turner reflected on Edgar’s legacy, stating, "Governor Jim Edgar dedicated his life to serving the people of Illinois with honesty and dignity. His leadership, marked by fairness and respect, left a lasting impact on our state. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his loved ones."

Edgar began his public service career as a legislative intern for the Illinois General Assembly and later served as an Illinois State Representative and Illinois Secretary of State before being elected governor in 1990. His tenure included addressing the state budget deficit, reforming education and welfare systems, improving child protection services, and providing strong leadership during the Great Flood of 1993. After leaving office, he continued to contribute through public advocacy programs such as The Jim Edgar Fellow Program, which trains emerging leaders in public policy.

Visitation services for Edgar were held at the Illinois State Capitol on September 19, followed by memorial services the next day.

In other news relevant to rural communities this harvest season, drivers are being urged to use caution as more farm equipment is present on roads across Illinois. Slow-moving tractors and combines are common during this period. A University of Illinois-Chicago study reported that between 2018 and 2023 there was an average of nearly 530 crashes per year involving agricultural vehicles on Illinois roadways.

Senator Turner highlighted the importance of both recognizing farmers’ efforts and practicing safety: she encourages motorists to slow down and give space to large equipment while reminding farmers to use visible lights and signals.

Republican State Senator Neil Anderson has introduced legislation to establish “Charlie Kirk Day” in Illinois following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Senate Bill 2694 proposes amending the State Commemorative Dates Act so that September 10 each year would be recognized as “Charlie Kirk Day.” Kirk was shot on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University; Tyler Robinson has been charged in connection with his murder.

Commenting on the bill’s significance, Senator Turner said: "By establishing a day of recognition, Illinoisans will have a chance each year to reflect on Kirk’s values, his contributions to public discourse, and the continuing importance of protecting our constitutional rights." The bill is currently filed with the Illinois General Assembly awaiting committee assignment.

The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is offering taxpayers relief through a limited-time amnesty program this fall. Penalties and interest will be forgiven for unpaid taxes incurred between June 30, 2018, and July 1, 2024 if full payment is made between October 1 and November 17. Property taxes along with estate, franchise, or insurance taxes are not eligible for forgiveness under this program. Taxpayers may appeal IDOR decisions if necessary. The last such amnesty occurred in late 2019; there are no plans for future periods unless amended by legislative action.

National Surgical Technologists Week takes place during the third week of September. It recognizes professionals who support patient safety during surgery by preparing patients before operations and assisting surgeons throughout procedures. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 108,000 surgical technologists work in the United States—a number expected to grow by approximately twelve percent over ten years due partly to advances in medical technology increasing both efficiency and demand for surgeries.

Turner was elected as a Republican senator representing Illinois' 44th Senate District in 2021 after replacing Bill Brady (https://senatorturner.com/About/Meet-Sally).

For more information about National Surgical Technologists Week visit AST.org.