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By BERNARD SCHOENBURG The State Journal-Register, Springfield
Editor’s Note: This column from retiring reporter Bernard Schoenburg was published The State Journal-Register of Springfield on Nov. 27.
SPRINGFIELD – I had no plans to end up where I did – on the front page of The State Journal-Register in August 1985, when my future wife, Kim, and I were caught on top of the double Ferris Wheel at the State Fair.
The ride came to a jolting, shaking stop after being hit by a driverless crane. We weren't hurt, but while we were very thankful for the rescue, I don't recommend climbing down a fire truck ladder from about 10 stories in the air as a form of recreation.
Little did I know that 5 years later, I'd become a member of the staff of the SJ-R. And who could have guessed I would stay more than 30 years?
During my first 10 years in the business, at The Pantagraph of Bloomington, I got thrown into commuting to Springfield to cover some Statehouse session days starting in 1977. That newspaper moved me to the Statehouse full time in 1982, and I stayed through late 1986.
It was then a move north. Springfield native Kim did her family practice residency in Oak Park and I worked in downtown Chicago at The Associated Press. For me, it was close to where I grew up, in Evanston.
Then it was back to Springfield, where I was hired into one of multiple newsroom openings at the SJ-R in 1990 and Kim started a dream-come-true practice of medicine alongside her dad, Dr. Stuart Yaffe, who retired in 2017.
Being the political columnist, in addition to regular reporting duties, was added to my job description in mid-1992.
Journalism was something I fell into while at the University of Illinois at Champaign, when a course piqued an interest that was reinforced by two years writing for The Daily Illini.
Journalism, indeed, has provided a stream of interesting experiences.
I got to ride in an RV with Gov. Jim Thompson up the old U.S. 51 north of Bloomington to mark the announcement of the construction of what would become Interstate 39 – built to bring speed and safety to travelers north to Rockford and into Wisconsin.
I got to go to Japan on The Pantagraph's dime – twice. Once was to visit Bloomington-Normal's Sister City, Asahikawa. On the second, with a delegation from Illinois, I took a side trip to visit a Mitsubishi plant like the one that was to be built in Normal.
I got to witness the pro- and anti-Equal Rights Amendment rallies at the Statehouse in what was at the time the deadline year of 1982.
Some people fighting for the amendment fasted for weeks in the Statehouse rotunda. Others, who had chained themselves to the brass rail outside the Senate chamber, returned after their arrest and release to spray animal blood on Statehouse floors.
I was still reporting in 2018 when Illinois became the 37th state to ratify the wording – 38 are needed to get it in the Constitution.
I saw the sweep of the state in a 1994 campaign day with Gov. Jim Edgar, going from a $500-a-plate breakfast in Chicago to a traditional Johnson County GOP gospel sing at Vienna High School.
I watched as an emotional Edgar told a hushed Governor's Mansion gathering in 1997 that he wouldn't seek a third term.
I got to watch George Ryan rise to speaker of the House, lieutenant governor, secretary of state and governor, then get sentenced to jail for corruption. I also interviewed him just this year about his engaging book on his moves toward halting the death penalty in Illinois as revelations of wrongful convictions mounted.
In Chicago with AP, I covered what was then a rare but horrible event – a school shooting – in 1988. Chicago Police Officer Irma Ruiz and a custodian were killed, as were two clerks at a nearby store. Another Chicago school is named for Ruiz.
On a lighter note, I got to cover the announcement that Michael Jordan would grace a Wheaties box. I asked what he was being paid for the honor. He wouldn't say.
I watched a super-charismatic campaigner – Democrat Rod Blagojevich – become a self-absorbed governor who was ultimately impeached and imprisoned – only to be let out by action of President Donald Trump.
It was just an indication of conflict to come when during his first veto session, in 2003, he accused lawmakers of spending "like a bunch of drunken sailors."
This was even as he used state planes to shuttle back and forth from Chicago each day of session. The flights, he said, made him "guilty" of wanting to "go home and see my 7-year-old and kiss my baby."
I was the only reporter to cover a 2003 news conference where an unlikely prospect for the U.S. Senate, state Sen. Barack Obama of Chicago, got the endorsement of the Illinois Federation of Teachers for the Democratic nomination to the post.
After he got that nomination, I interviewed him as he was working on a speech he would give at the 2004 Democratic National Convention in Boston. That speech, which I witnessed while covering the Illinois delegation, catapulted him not only to the Senate, but to national fame. With urging from U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Illinois, of Springfield, his two terms as president would follow.
I saw Gov. Pat Quinn rise from an outsider agitating on behalf of consumers to state treasurer, lieutenant governor and, upon Blagojevichs's expulsion by the legislature, to governor.
I saw the rise of Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner, who everyone assumed would be the richest Illinois governor ever.
I helped document the pain caused by a couple years with no state budget – a product of what seemed Rauner's neverending fight with Democrats running the legislature. I challenged statements Rauner made, like his repeated obvious falsehood about the Mitsubishi plant that had closed in 2016.
"No one would even take the plant if we gave it to them, because our regulations are so hostile to business and our taxes are so high," he'd say.
That was a shocking proclamation, given that a smiling Rauner had been at the plant in early 2017 with RJ Scaringe, CEO of startup automaker Rivian, which purchased the plant with help of the Rauner administration.
That plant is now scheduled to produce, among other vehicles, 100,000 electric delivery vans for Amazon.
Then there was Gov. JB Pritzker. Who thought anyone could outspend Rauner? Pritzker did, and had a successful first legislative session.
He's also had the once-in-a-century pandemic to deal with, and he continues to try to navigate the state through the health and economic crisis it has brought.
I saw House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, rise to that office in 1983, using the handle of the gavel to gently tap the House to attention. He's had a long run that may soon end.
In my adopted home of Springfield, I've covered two Langfelders, Ossie and son Jim, as mayor.
I saw the amazing rise and tragic fall of Mayor Tim Davlin, whose smile and charm stormed the city, and whose death by his own hand was a shock that still resonates.
Former Mayors Karen Hasara and Mike Houston remain respected voices. And late Alderman and Mayor Frank Edwards and his wife, Sangamon County Coroner Cinda Edwards, left us too soon in a tragic plane crash.
Through it all, I've seen the media landscape change. I was sent to seven national political conventions – six when I was with central Illinois newspapers. That kind of investment by local papers has waned. And I've watched the number of reporters at the Statehouse shrink.
I've also seen the rise of nontraditional media operations, and I applaud one of the latest, Capitol News Illinois, for filling gaps by providing important coverage for papers across Illinois.
I've also used the platform of my column to raise questions about media outlets borne from groups with an agenda.
As everybody now knows in the age of the internet, not all printed words are the same. And with the outgoing president planting the idea that legitimate news organizations are "fake" if they report things he doesn't like, I've seen politicians and plenty of regular folks parrot those thoughts as they choose to read and watch sources that match their biases.
Getting conflicting sides in a story is often difficult. And readers should seek information from outlets where reporters do that work.
I am tremendously thankful for those who have helped with stories – by answering difficult questions, sharing thoughts and emotions, or merely returning phone calls.
It has been an honor to work with colleagues in the press who have amazed me with their good work.
After 44 post-college years on deadline, I took an offer from Gannett, which now owns The State Journal-Register, to exit as of Tuesday.
At 66, I'm looking forward to whatever the next phase holds. The 24/7 news cycle, mixed with the rise of social media with a pandemic thrown in, has made being a reporter trying to keep up with events not dissimilar from someone riding a roller coaster – or perhaps a double Ferris Wheel that takes a jolt.
Kim was beside me on that ride in 1985, and I've been blessed to be beside her all these years, raising son Sam and daughter Elly – who have great lives in Chicago and New York, respectively.
I hope, in the changing media landscape, that others can continue to have careers that provide such varied and wonderful experiences, as they work to inform people of important as well as fun things.
Thanksgiving is just passed, and I'm feeling it. For my family, for my colleagues, for my friends, and for all those sources who helped along the way, thank you.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 11, 2025 Contact Information: Cadeala Troublefield, project manager Griffin & Strong Ph: (678) 364-2962 ext. 111 cadeala@gspclaw.com Courtney Clark, deputy project manager Griffin & Strong Ph: (404) 348-0690 ext. 113 courtney@gspclaw.com
VIRTUAL INFORMATIONAL MEETING DETAILS DATE(TENTATIVE): Wednesday, November 19, 2025 6 PM CST/7 PM EST Interested Participants Can Register Here: https://gspclaw.zoom.us/meeting/register/ytfUEAagQzqnrQE8eO8mSQ#/registration
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 6, 2025 Contact Information: Kara Kienzler, associate executive director - communications Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) Ph: (217) 528-9688
SPRINGFIELD — November 15 of each year is designated as School Board Members Day. The day of recognition is an occasion to build community awareness about the important role school board members play in a representative democracy by providing a local voice for community education decisions. In 2007, the Illinois House of Representatives declared November 15 as School Board Members Day in the State of Illinois. The resolution states the annual recognition is “a way to honor those citizens who devote so much of their time and energy for the education of our children.” “School board members serve as our local, volunteer education advocates striving for quality learning opportunities for every student. They take on this immense responsibility not for a paycheck, but because they are committed to their communities and the belief that every child deserves a quality education,” said IASB Executive Director Kimberly A. Small, J.D. “Our school board members wear many hats; beyond their educational leadership, they are policy-makers, contract negotiators, and budgeteers. They are also our neighbors, our friends, and our schools’ biggest fans. On November 15 –– School Board Members Day — it is our chance to say, ‘Thank You.’” IASB encourages school districts, communities, businesses, and others to thank local school board members and recognize them for their dedication to providing successful education opportunities for all students. Resources and images to recognize school board members on November 15 are available at www.iasb.com/thankaboardmember.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 6, 2025 Media Contact Illinois Principals Association Alison Maley, government and public relations director PH: 217-299-3122 alison@ilprincipals.org
SPRINGFIELD – In a direct response to the growing school leadership shortage across Illinois, the Illinois Principals Association, through its Ed Leaders Network (ELN), has teamed up with Aurora University to launch an exciting and streamlined Alternative Principal Endorsement Program. This endorsement pathway enables educators who already have five years of experience and hold a master’s degree in education to earn their Principal Endorsement in just one year – without completing an additional graduate degree. Approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and aligned with National Educational Leadership Preparation (NELP) standards, the program blends an immersive one-year internship with micro‑credentials tailored to school leadership practice. Eligible educators can earn licensure‑approved endorsement within one calendar year. This program is significantly less expensive than a full master’s degree and delivered on a fully remote platform. Participants in the program have appreciated the flexibility and experience the program provides as they enter or continue their school leadership journey. “Having already completed my master's degree, I knew I wanted to add the Principals Endorsement to my license, but I did not want to enroll in another full master's program. I was able to pull from previous leadership experience as I worked through the micro-credentials while still gaining valuable experience during my internship activities. The program is challenging but rewarding as it offers a way to reflect on previous experiences while building new skills as an educational leader."
- Jon Pieper, division head for Career & Technical Education, Physical Education, Drivers Education, and Health Education at Elk Grove High School
“The Alternative Principal Endorsement program was a great fit because everything was online, and I could work at my own pace. The flexibility allowed me to balance professional responsibilities while advancing my leadership skills. I would highly recommend this program to aspiring leaders.”
- Dr. Maribel Guerrero, director of language acquisition, Naperville CUSD 203
Dr. Ed Howerton, director of graduate education programs at Aurora University and former district administrator, shared: "Our program leans heavily into a ‘learning by doing’ framework that is extremely self-driven. It provides flexibility for professionals and ownership in the learning process. Many of our completers have moved into administrative roles sooner than if they had gone through a master’s degree program, and filling leadership voids in our schools is key to promoting student success.” Dr. Jason Leahy, executive director of the Illinois Principals Association, also shared: “When compared to a little over a decade ago, the State of Illinois has experienced an almost 60% reduction in the number of individuals who earn their principal endorsement each year. This alternative pathway provides a rigorous, cost effective, and expedited opportunity for quality educators to demonstrate they possess the skills necessary to be effective school leaders.” Eligible candidates must hold a current Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL), possess a master’s degree in education, have completed five years of teaching or school support experience, are employed in a full‑time, permanent educational position before program start, and complete required evaluation training and principal content exams to qualify for endorsement. Currently, 81 students are enrolled at various stages of the program at Aurora University, including 30 students that began this fall semester. Twenty-four students have completed the program since its inception, with 12 individuals working in leadership positions. Aurora University Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Aurora University is committed to preparing leaders for the future of education. For a full overview of the program’s structure and registration information, visit the Alternative Principal Endorsement at https://aurora.edu/academics/graduate/principal-endorsement/index.html. Illinois Principals Association The Illinois Principals Association is a leadership organization which serves more than 6,900 educational leaders throughout the state of Illinois and whose mission is to develop, support, and advocate for innovative educational leaders. For more information about the IPA, please visit www.ilprincipals.org. Program Contacts Aurora University – Ed Howerton, director of Graduate Education Programs, ehowerton@aurora.edu, 630-844-5626 Ed Leaders Network / Illinois Principals Association – Arlin Peebles, Ed Leaders Network director, arlin.peebles@ilprincipals.org, 217-241-0598
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 5, 2025 Contact Illinois Bar Foundation Jessie Reeves, director of events & administration Ph: 312-920-4681 jreeves@illinoisbarfoundation.org
CHICAGO, November 5, 2025 - Mark D. Hassakis, a personal injury and workers' compensation attorney at Hassakis & Hassakis, P.C. of Mount Vernon, Illinois, was recently honored with the Illinois Bar Foundation’s Distinguished Award for Excellence on Oct. 17 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Chicago. Mark D. Hassakis has the legal advocacy of Illinois victims in his blood. Born and raised in Mount Vernon, Mark followed in the footsteps of his father, Demetri, a lifelong Mount Vernon attorney, to practice law at Hassakis & Hassakis, P.C, now celebrating 75 years. Mark has dedicated his professional life to helping his fellow Illinois citizens and the community at large. In addition to his exceptional career representing individuals’ needs in the areas of personal injury and workers’ compensation, professional malpractice, and general tort injury cases, Mark is a true leader with unparalleled dedication to giving back to the community. The Illinois Bar Foundation’s Distinguished Award for Excellence, the organization’s highest honor, is awarded annually to individuals whose career and personal life exemplify their ongoing commitment to the law and legal community. “The selection of Mark Hassakis for this year's Distinguished Award of Excellence reflects our belief in the principle that legal excellence and community service go hand in hand. His career demonstrates how individual attorneys can make a lasting impact not just through their practice, but through their commitment to strengthening the legal profession and ensuring access to justice for all Illinois residents.”
Lauren N. Tuckey, Tuckey Law Illinois Bar Foundation President 2025-26
Bar leadership and community impact Mark's commitment to the legal profession extends far beyond his practice. As president of the Illinois State Bar Association (2010-11), he championed juvenile justice reform, established young attorney mentorship programs, and highlighted the vital role lawyers play in strengthening their communities. His passion for juvenile justice led to the establishment of the Illinois Bar Foundation's M. Denny Hassakis Fund, which focuses on improving Illinois' juvenile justice system through public policy changes and programs supporting vulnerable youth. Mark served as president of the Illinois Bar Foundation from 2000 to 2002, during which time he was instrumental in creating the organization's signature fundraising events, including the Gala and Lawyers Rock concert. Mark has held numerous other leadership positions, including chairman of the ISBA Mutual Insurance Company; president of the Jefferson County Bar Association; and board member of the Hellenic Bar Association, the Lawyers' Trust Fund of Illinois, and the Juvenile Justice Initiative. Beyond his legal work, Mark has been a driving force in Mount Vernon and Southern Illinois development. He has spearheaded projects focused on downtown development, historical building restoration, and the support of community parks and arts initiatives. Notable achievements include bringing nationally acclaimed jazz artists to teach area grade school students and commissioning an "Abraham Lincoln as a Lawyer" sculpture for the 5th Appellate Court grounds in Mount Vernon. A proud Northwestern University alumnus, Mark continues to serve as an alumni regent and member of the Northwestern University Leadership Circle since 2012, acting as an ambassador for the university. Mark's extensive community involvement includes leadership roles with the Downtown Development Corporation of Mt. Vernon, Jefferson County Historical Society, Lincoln Park Foundation, Vernon West Rotary Club (Paul Harris Fellow), and numerous other local organizations dedicated to enriching Southern Illinois. Bar Admissions