Briefs: State distributes radios

The state of Illinois says it's wrapping up the distribution of more than 300 radios to 70 of the state's colleges and universities. The STARCOM 21 radios are designed to improve communication for campus security officials during emergency situations. STARCOM is a statewide communications system created in a partnership between the state and Schaumburg-based Motorola. The state of Illinois has provided schools with both the radios and training in how to use them. Gov. Rod Blagojevich says tragedies like the shootings at Virginia Tech earlier this year show how critical communications are during emergencies.

City buys hybrid vehicles

Chicago is taking another step in becoming environmentally friendly. The city has signed an $8.7 million contract with a car dealership to buy up to 300 Toyota hybrid vehicles. The cars will be used by police and fire departments. Under the contract, the city will buy 100 Prius sedans, 100 Camry models and 100 Highlander xSUVs from Northside Toyota in the next three years. A spokeswoman for the city's Fleet Management Department says the city is trying to boost the number of alternative fuel cars by 10 percent each year. Chicago currently has 5,400 cars in its fleet. City officials say the changing market has made it more affordable to get the environmentally friendly cars.

Judge challenges age limit

A Cook County circuit judge is suing to challenge a state law that restricts judges from running for re-election after age 75. Judge William Maddux, 72, claims the law is age discrimination. He says age shouldn't be a criteria for office. Illinois law does allow some instances for judges to serve past the age limit. For example, a judge can be appointed after 75. But Maddux's attorney says the law puts a limitation on judges that doesn't apply to other public officials, such as legislators. Gov. Rod Blagojevich and some officials on the Illinois State Board of Elections are named in the lawsuit.