Nah, I've just been super-busy the past few days. Regular posting should resume shortly—depending on how this week in Cleveland goes.
Last month tied the record for the coolest July in state history:
The statewide average temperature for July was 21.3°C in Illinois, which ties the record cool July of 21.3°C set back in 2009.
As this plot indicates, the observed range in July monthly temperatures in Illinois is 7°C. On another note, the July 2014 average temperature is based on preliminary data so it is very likely that we will break the tie with 2009 as more data arrives.
The state climatologist has a map:
So Illinois was the country's cool spot back in January and again in July. I have to say, it's a lot better to do that in July.