Peters fights Bears potential move from Chicago

Monsters of the Midway Act sparks discussion of the role of public dollars financing sports franchises

CHICAGO – Nearly 20 years ago, the Bears were warned that their Soldier Field renovation plans were too small, too limited in use and downright ugly. The Bears dismissed those concerns and moved full speed ahead in their demand for more than a half billion dollars in public funding to redo the stadium according to their vision.

Now, they’re preparing to walk away from it and potentially move to suburban Arlington Heights. All the reasons for their move are the concerns brought up and rejected by the Bears 20 years ago.

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Murphy joins Lyme Disease Task Force to raise awareness, improve detection

SPRINGFIELD – As hikers flock to Illinois’ parks and forests to enjoy colorful fall foliage, State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines) hopes to advance public education and awareness of dangerous tick-borne diseases as the newest member of the state’s Lyme Disease Task Force. 

“Warmer, longer summers in the Midwest mean the risk of Lyme disease is on the rise,” Murphy said. “Many doctors don’t think to test for the disease right away, but early detection could make all the difference—raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of Lyme disease might save a life.”

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Joyce announces local libraries to receive over $24,000 in mentoring grants

KANKAKEE – Two area libraries will receive grants to administer mentorship programs for at-risk youth, State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) announced Tuesday.

“After a difficult year for our students, these grants couldn’t have come at a better time,” Joyce said. “Making sure our at-risk youth have the resources and mentors they need to get back on track is important, and Project Next Generation will help with that.” 

Read more: Joyce announces local libraries to receive over $24,000 in mentoring grants

Villivalam: Senate Transportation hearing scheduled for Monday

­CHICAGO – Members of the Illinois Senate Transportation Committee will hold a joint hearing with the Senate Executive Sub-committee on Procurement to discuss Senate Bill 1900 on Monday, Sept. 27.

“As chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, I am committed to exploring new ways to make our transportation network safe and accessible with the absolute stewardship of taxpayer dollars as a top priority,” Villivalam said. “We will have a robust, transparent discussion on encouraging private investment that may ease the financial burden on our state and invite our economic drivers to have a stake in the transportation network.”

Read more: Villivalam: Senate Transportation hearing scheduled for Monday