Illinois Quick Hits: Chicago extends free internet program for public school families

(The Center Square) – Chicago officials have announced the extension of a free, high-speed internet program for eligible Chicago Public Schools families in the 2026-2027 school year.

According to a statement from Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office, Chicago Connected service was formerly provided through partnerships with local internet providers but has now been sustained through CPS’s partnership with the city.

EX-GYMNASTICS COACH PLEADS GUILTY

A former Collinsville gymnastics coach has pleaded guilty to engaging in unlawful sexual activity with two 13-year-olds.

Marco A. Zomphier, 32, of Bethalto, Illinois admitted to the charges at a federal court in St. Louis on Wednesday.

Prosecutors said Zomphier met the first victim at a YMCA program where he coached in 2012. Zomphier allegedly used Snapchat to communicate with the second victim, who he met at the Collinsville program where he coached in late 2021.

Sentencing is set for Dec. 2.

DU QUOIN STATE FAIR FEATURES ILLINOIS PRODUCT EXPO

The 2026 Illinois Product Expo is scheduled to open at the Du Quoin State Fair this weekend.

Hours for the expo featuring local products are from 5-9 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

The fair runs through Monday.

NATIONAL FINANCIAL CONDITIONS INDEX HOLDS STEADY

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s National Financial Conditions Index was unchanged at –0.56 in the week ending Aug. 28, suggesting steady financial conditions.

This story originally appeared on thecentersquare.com.