Property Taxes Hit Southern Illinois Hospitality: Walker’s Bluff Winery and Legends in Carterville is permanently closing Wednesday, and the Frenchman’s Widow restaurant in Herrin will shut Saturday, with owners blaming a property tax burden that’s jumped to about $194,000 for the winery. Public Transit Boost in Southern Illinois: Carbondale will hold a ribbon-cutting Aug. 28 for the Southern Illinois Multimodal Station, a $23M-plus federal/state-funded hub meant to spur downtown revitalization. Health Risk Study: A new nationwide study finds people living within about 500 feet of dry cleaners had a 14% higher Parkinson’s risk, linking long-term exposure to certain solvents. Illinois Politics at the Fair: Governor’s Day at the Illinois State Fair is spotlighting the U.S. Senate race, with candidates and officials using the platform to reach voters. CTU vs. Critics: The Chicago Teachers Union sues the Illinois Policy Institute and the Liberty Justice Center, alleging a coordinated “smear campaign” branding the union “toxic.” Amazon Drone Delivery Expands: Amazon says Prime Air will reach nearly 500 U.S. cities/towns by end of 2026, with Chicago among the next metro launches. Illinois Toll Hike: The Illinois Tollway board approved a major passenger toll increase tied to a large capital program.