Illinois, Iowa Break Ground on I-74 Bridge Reconstruction Project

June 27, 2017 By Leave a Comment

Press Release from Governor Bruce Rauner’s Office

QUAD CITIES – Governor Bruce Rauner was joined by Illinois and Iowa officials today in a ceremonial groundbreaking to launch a three-and-a-half year bi-state construction project to build a new Interstate 74 Mississippi River Bridge to improve travel and safety through the I-74 corridor.

“Working together, our states and communities will build a modern, state-of-the-art project that showcases the quality of our workforce and creates economic opportunity for generations to come,” Governor Rauner said. “We are building more than just a bridge, but a vital piece of the country’s transportation network that will promote commerce throughout the Midwest.”

Iowa and Illinois share jurisdiction of the I-74 corridor. The Iowa Department of Transportation is the lead agency for the bridge construction project and corresponding projects within Iowa, while the Illinois Department of Transportation is a partner in the bridge project and the lead agency for the related projects within Illinois. Both agencies are working closely to coordinate construction activities with the cities of Bettendorf, Moline, Davenport and Rock Island.

“The Iowa and Illinois departments of transportation, along with their design partners, have come up with a plan for a safe, modern and visually spectacular structure that will replace two aging bridges that date back 82 years,” Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds said. “This new bridge will serve as a vital east-west link for the Midwest and help both states improve their regional and global options for moving goods.”

Construction will begin later this summer and is expected to be complete in 2021. In addition to the bridge reconstruction, the estimated $1.2 billion project will improve travel along I-74 between 53rd Street in Davenport, Iowa, and Avenue of the Cities in Moline, Ill., better connecting the growing communities on both sides of the Mississppi River. A new pedestrian and bike path that connects to existing local paths also is included in the project.

For updates on the construction schedule, road closures, lane detours and to get the most up-to-date construction news, visit the project website at I74RiverBridge.com. Follow the project on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube @I74RiverBridge

Filed Under: State News

SAVE TIME, BUY ONLINE: ILLINOIS STATE FAIR GATE & PARKING NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE ONLINE

June 27, 2017 By Leave a Comment

Ticket scanning now an option at all Illinois State Fair gates

Press Release from the Illinois department of Agriculture

The Illinois State Fair continues its trek into the digital age! In 2016, the Illinois State Fair unveiled a new mobile app that allows fairgoers to customize their visit to the state fairgrounds. This year, the Illinois State Fair is offering an online payment option for gate admission, parking passes and mega passes with more features to be added as we approach the August fair. In addition to purchasing your tickets in advance, the Illinois State Fair will now have the option to scan those online purchases on your mobile phones at the gate.

“Technology is allowing the Illinois State Fair to evolve,” said State Fair Manager Kevin Gordon. “Scanning tickets is something we have been able to do at the Grandstand for a couple of years now, and we hope expanding this service to our twelve gates will be an added convenience for our fairgoers.”

In addition to purchasing parking and gate admission online, the Illinois State Fair will be moving its Mega Pass sales to this new online initiative. Mega Passes have always been available for purchase online through the state’s e-pay website, but that will no longer be available as of Friday, June 16. It’s important to note the Mega Pass purchase is only a gift certificate and must still be redeemed prior to use at the Emmerson Building where recipients must get a photo ID to accompany the pass.

Here’s how it works. Go to www.eventsprout.com and click on Find Events. On the search bar at the top of the page, enter Illinois State Fair. Once you find and click on the Illinois State Fair listing you’ll be directed to a new page that lists all the items you can purchase online. Click the green Buy Tickets button underneath the picture at the top of the page to begin your purchase.

The tickets purchased online can be printed at home, if you still prefer a traditional paper ticket, or they can be scanned from your phone at the gate. Volunteers at each of the gates will be equipped with electronic scanners. Some of the larger gates will have additional lines to expedite those who have pre-paid for their gate admission and parking.

“This company has a long resume of work with fairs and festivals around the nation,” said Ag Director Raymond Poe. “Not only is this service offered at the county fair level, such as Lake County and Champaign County, but it’s a service that’s offered at music festivals, rodeos and sporting events. I’m happy to see our Illinois State Fair taking the next step in customer service and digital advancement.”

Another added convenience will be offered beginning July 1. Once again the Illinois State Fair is teaming up with a local retailer to make it easier for fairgoers throughout central Illinois to purchase discount admission tickets for the upcoming fair. Beginning July 1, discount admission booklets will be available for purchase at participating County Market grocery stores (Veterans Parkway, Carpenter Street, Monroe Street, 6th Street, Sherman, Chatham, Petersburg and Girard). These booklets are a great idea for any family, or a group of friends, who plan to attend the fair. One booklet provides eleven any day adult admissions to the 2017 Illinois State Fair for just $60, while supplies last. These booklets can also be purchased at the Emmerson Building on the state fairgrounds during business hours Monday – Friday, or by calling 217-782-0775.

New information is being added daily to the Illinois State Fair website and mobile app. You can learn more about the 2017 fair by connecting with us via social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ILStateFair/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ILStateFair
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myilstatefair/

Don’t delay! Make your plans today to visit the Illinois State Fair August 10 – August 20 in Springfield, IL.

Filed Under: State News

Rally planned at Capitol to defend religious freedom

June 27, 2017 By Leave a Comment

http://www.sj-r.com/news/20170626/rally-planned-at-capitol-to-defend-religious-freedom

SPRINGFEILD, IL –  (Mary Hansen, Springfield Journal Register.  Please click on the link above for the full story.  Here is an excerpt below.)

Right of conscience could be one topic at a rally focusing on religious freedoms that’s planned for noon Wednesday in the Capitol rotunda.

It’s being organized by the Catholic Diocese of Springfield, and Bishop Thomas John Paprocki is planning to attend.

Some Catholics are concerned about their right of conscience, particularly for physicians and other medical professionals who object to abortions, said Donna Moore, the diocese’s director for pro-life activities and special ministries.

Filed Under: Breaking News, State News

$15 minimum wage bill arrives at governor’s desk

June 27, 2017 By Leave a Comment

https://www.ilnews.org/news/economy/minimum-wage-bill-arrives-at-governor-s-desk/article_d4c1a486-5ab4-11e7-911e-c320057b66e3.html

SPRINGFIELD, IL-  (Cole Laterback, Illinois News Network.  Please click on the link above for the full story.  Here is an excerpt.)

Gov. Bruce Rauner has received a bill that would set a $15 minimum wage in Illinois, tying the Prairie State for the highest rate in the nation.

Just days before Cook County’s minimum wage hike to $10 an hour is set to take place, Democrats in the General Assembly set legislation on Rauner’s desk that would raise the statewide minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2022. According to the department of Labor, $15 an hour in 2022 would tie California and New York for the highest minimum wages in the nation.

David Borris, the owner of Hel’s Kitchen Catering in suburban Northbrook, says low minimum wages end up hurting taxpayers in the long run because workers rely on government subsidies rather than solely on their paychecks.

Filed Under: Breaking News, State News

Two teens attempt to rob 14-year-old, assault him on MetroLink, police say

June 26, 2017 By Leave a Comment

http://www.bnd.com/news/local/article158185899.

ST. LOUIS, MO – (Kara Berg, Belleville News Democrat.  Please click on the link above for the full story.  Here is an excerpt below.)

When a MetroLink passenger wouldn’t give his bag up to two boys who tried to rob him, the boys assaulted him Sunday afternoon, St. Louis County police say.

Police saw a fight going on as a group of people left a westbound MetroLink train at North Hanley Station in northern St. Louis County, according to a news release. One boy showed what appeared to be a firearm to the group of riders, police said.

The two suspects — both black boys in their teens — approached a 14-year-old boy while he was riding the train, police said. When the train stopped, they demanded he give them his bag. When he refused, they assaulted him, police said.

 

 

Filed Under: National News, State News

Bost Rallies Congressional Leaders to Demand Action on Alexander County’s Housing Crisis

June 26, 2017 By Leave a Comment

Press Relaese from George O’ Connor, Communications director for Congressman Mike Bost

Washington, D.C. –U.S. Representative Mike Bost (R-Murphysboro) led a push in Congress for answers regarding alleged corruption at the Alexander County Housing Authority, as the House simultaneously approved an amendment Bost introduced to help ease the transition of Cairo residents and other Americans who have been displaced from a public housing authority to a new location.

“Cairo’s suffering is due in large part to years of fraud and corruption at the highest levels of Alexander County’s housing authority,” said Bost. “As Cairo’s representative in Congress, I am doing all I can to hold these individuals accountable and help the residents of Cairo transition to a better living situation. I am proud to have the backing of Reps. Duffy, Wagner, and Palmer – three important subcommittee chairs with oversight over housing and government accountability – in this fight.  It’s a real shame that the individuals who may be found guilty for causing this harm could have better living conditions in prison than many of the residents they were charged with protecting.  

Bost authored a letter to U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson requesting information related to decades of alleged corruption by officials at the ACHA.  Bost enlisted the backing of Representatives Sean Duffy (R-WI), Chair of the Oversight and Government Reform Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee; Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the Financial Services Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee; and  Gary Palmer (R-AL), Chairman of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee in this effort.  The House Financial Services Committee has oversight over HUD public housing, while the Government Reform and Oversight Committee has conducted some of Congress’s most high profile investigations of federal waste, fraud, and abuse.

Bost’s letter to HUD requests:

  • A list of inspections and financial audits, or other reviews, conducted by HUD of the ACHA going back to at least 1995;
  • Findings of the inspections and audits, and reviews, including physical inspection scores of the Elmwood and McBride buildings;
  • Audits, inspections, or reviews of Elmwood and McBride maintenance records; and
  • Documents and communications relating to potential fraud, waste or abuse involving ACHA officials and employees.

Additionally, Congress unanimously approved an amendment  that Bost introduced to the Accelerating Individuals into the Workforce Act (H.R. 2842). The workforce legislation provides funding for states to subsidize up to 50 percent of employment for a limited time for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) in an effort to link low-income Americans looking for work with employers looking to fill job openings. Bost’s amendment to H.R. 2842, which was adopted unanimously by the House, ensures this program considers TANF-qualified individuals who have been displaced or relocated from a public housing authority to a new location.

Filed Under: National News, State News

Madigan offers new demands, says property tax relief part of ‘extreme right-wing agenda’

June 26, 2017 By Leave a Comment

https://www.ilnews.org/news/state_politics/madigan-offers-new-demands-says-property-tax-relief-part-of/article_a9692dce-59f9-11e7-ab3a-637e491f7c9b.html

SPRINGFIELD, IL – (Greg Bishop, Illinois News Network.  Please click on the link above for this and other stories about the happenings in Springfield over the weekend.  Here is an excerpt below.)

Legislative leaders say there’s a sense of optimism about budget negotiations, but with new demands from Democrat House Speaker Michael Madigan and Friday’s budget deadline approaching, it’s unclear if all sides will agree on a spending plan before the new fiscal year begins Saturday.

Leaders from both parties met Sunday, the fifth day of the special session called by Gov. Bruce Rauner and only five days before the Friday budget deadline. On the table is a spending plan that relies on at least $5 billion in tax increases in exchange for various GOP-backed reforms of pensions, workers compensation and other items.

Legislative leaders say there’s a sense of optimism about budget negotiations, but with new demands from Democrat House Speaker Michael Madigan and Friday’s budget deadline approaching, it’s unclear if all sides will agree on a spending plan before the new fiscal year begins Saturday.

Leaders from both parties met Sunday, the fifth day of the special session called by Gov. Bruce Rauner and only five days before the Friday budget deadline. On the table is a spending plan that relies on at least $5 billion in tax increases in exchange for various GOP-backed reforms of pensions, workers compensation and other items.

Filed Under: Breaking News, State News

There’s A Themed Hotel In The Middle Of Nowhere In Illinois You’ll Absolutely Love

June 26, 2017 By Leave a Comment

http://www.onlyinyourstate.com/illinois/themed-hotel-il/

CLINTON, IL – (Elizabeth Crozier, onlyinyourstate.com.  Please click the link above to read the full story and view several pictures.  Here is an excerpt below.

Imagine spending the night inside a spaceship! There’s a hotel in Illinois that lets you do that and more depending on which of their 12 themed rooms you choose. From a winter wonderland to an underwater adventure, this hotel has so many diverse aesthetics, you will have to come back again and again.

Sunset Inn & Suites is in Clinton, which sits between several big cities and college towns. Since it’s smack in the middle of Central Illinois, it’s easy get there for a weekend no matter where you live.

Filed Under: Featured, Slider, State News

Watch Out For Rabid Bats And Animals

June 26, 2017 By Leave a Comment

More than a dozen rabid bats found in Illinois so far this year

Press Release from the Illinois Department of Public Health

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) wants people to beware of rabid animals, including bats, as they become more active this time of year.  To date, more than a dozen rabid bats have been reported in Illinois this year.

“Most cases of rabies in Illinois are almost always found in bats,” said IDPH Director Nirav D. Shah, M.D., J.D.  “You can’t tell just by looking at a bat if it has rabies so it’s important to avoid handling bats and to make sure your home has no openings where bats can come in.”

Rabies is a virus that affects the nervous system.  People can get rabies after being bitten by an infected animal.  Rabies can also be contracted when saliva from a rabid animal gets directly into a person’s eyes, nose, mouth, or a wound.  People usually know when they have been bitten by a bat, but bats have very small teeth and the bite mark may not be easy to see.  If you find yourself in close proximity to a bat and are not sure if you were exposed, for example – you wake up and find a bat in your room, do not kill or release the bat before calling your doctor or local health department to help determine if you could have been exposed to rabies and need preventive treatment.  If the bat is available for testing and test results are negative, preventive treatment is not needed.

The early symptoms of rabies in people are similar to that of many other illnesses, including fever, headache, and general weakness or discomfort.  As the disease progresses, more specific symptoms appear and may include insomnia, anxiety, confusion, slight or partial paralysis, excitation, and hallucinations.  Death usually occurs within days of the onset of these symptoms.  If you have been bitten by any animal, seek immediate medical attention.  Rabies preventive treatment, if needed, must begin quickly.

An animal does not have to be aggressive or exhibit other symptoms to have rabies.  Changes in any animal’s normal behavior can be early signs of rabies.  A bat that is active during the day, found on the ground, or is unable to fly is more likely than others to be rabid.  Such bats are often easily approached, but should never be handled.

 

Filed Under: Living, State News

Future child support cases to use widely accepted ‘Income Shares’

June 26, 2017 By Leave a Comment

Illinois will join majority of other states with new approach starting July 1

Press release from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services announced today that the most widely used method nationwide to calculate child support will begin to be applied to new cases in Illinois starting July 1, following a bipartisan law signed by Governor Bruce Rauner last year. Child support orders established before July 1, 2017 will not change.

Under the “income shares” model, child support will be calculated primarily by looking at typical costs for families in similar circumstances. The income of both parents will also be factored in.

“With Illinois becoming the 40th state to adopt the income shares model, we will be using an approach that has become increasingly endorsed by experts and advocates in the field,” said Felicia Norwood, Director of the Department of Healthcare and Family Services.

Currently, child support in Illinois is calculated primarily based on the income of the obligor – the parent who owes payments – and the number of children.

The income shares model considers the typical costs to raise a child for a family at a similar income level as the parents in a case. If there are two incomes, both are added together to arrive at the amount needed to raise the child. Each parent’s contribution is then calculated by applying the methods laid out by the model. The portion owed by the parent who the child lives with is assumed to be paid because they reside together.

The General Assembly passed the income shares law in 2016, with overwhelming bipartisan approval and the governor’s signature. Many other states began shifting to income shares 10 years ago. The model was developed under the Federal Office of Child Support Enforcement.

Among the costs of raising a child that are taken into account are housing, clothes, food, transportation, ordinary uncovered medical expenses, ordinary extracurricular activities, entertainment and education. Judges may also consider extraordinary circumstances in setting support.

INCOME SHARES/ Ad 1

“Illinois now joins 39 other states and the District of Columbia in adopting the income shares model for calculating child support,” said Margaret Bennett, a DuPage attorney and chair of the Illinois Child Support Advisory Committee. “It is both equitable and accurate thus reducing conflict among divorced or never-married parents. Both parents and practitioners will find the new child support process to be transparent, fair and equitable thus making it more likely that parents will interact in a way that serves the best interests of their children.”

The new guidelines will apply to all child support cases set beginning July 1, 2017, however, the change itself does not entitle a parent to a modification of any current order of support.

HFS oversees the child support collection process statewide, regularly managing around 500,000 cases annually. Child support services are free and anyone may apply. Applications for service can be found at www.illinois.gov/hfs

More information on income shares, including FAQs and a calculator to help individuals understand the impact of the change, can be found at www.illinois.gov/hfs

Filed Under: Breaking News, State News
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