Cunningham receives award for stalwart support of Illinois labor

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Cunningham has received the Reuben Soderstrom Award for being a labor champion.

“Unions represent an essential pillar for protecting Illinois workers and our communities as a whole,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “Standing in solidarity with labor is something one should do regardless of recognition, but I am happy to accept the award and encourage my colleagues to keep up the good fight.”

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Stadelman measure to protect consumers against speculative ticket sales

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman is taking action to protect consumers and promote transparency in the ticket sales industry.

“There are many people who have been misled by the terms and conditions of buying a ticket online, often leading to extra fees,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “All consumers deserve to know up front the conditions and final price of their tickets. This measure will give consumers peace of mind before making a final purchasing decision.”

Speculative ticket listing refers to when sellers list tickets for events that they do not possess in the hope of acquiring them later at a lower price. This often leads to inflated ticket prices and leaves customers vulnerable to price gouging.

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Villivalam holds subject matter hearing to address public transit challenges

CHICAGO — Senate Transportation Committee Chair Ram Villivalam held a subject matter hearing Tuesday to hear from advocates and stakeholders about two pieces of legislation that would make changes to governance and address issues riders face.

“Given persistent delays and service gaps that riders face, it is important that we prioritize improvements to our public transit system,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Today, we had the opportunity to hear from advocates and stakeholders about measures that would provide reliable, affordable, safe and coordinated transit to our region.”

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Hunter honors life of former Cook County commissioner and soul singer Jerry ‘Iceman’ Butler

SPRINGFIELD — To recognize and honor former Cook County Commissioner and soul singer Jerry “Iceman” Butler, State Senator Mattie Hunter sponsored a resolution declaring March 12, 2025 as “Jerry Butler Day” in Illinois.

“Jerry ‘Iceman’ Butler was a dedicated public servant, talented artist and a loving neighbor,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “Recognizing his life is an honor as he dedicated his life to advocating, supporting and championing efforts to ensure everyone had access to the care they need.”

Through the resolution, Jerry “Iceman” Butler is remembered for his contributions and work as a Cook County commissioner, as well as his lasting music career. He was raised in Chicago’s Near North Side neighborhood, and lived in the Cabrini-Green Public Housing Development. He attended Washburne Trade School, where he studied to be a chef, but later embarked on a journey in music where he achieved fame as a member of the musical group The Impressions and later toured as a solo artist.

Read more: Hunter honors life of former Cook County commissioner and soul singer Jerry ‘Iceman’ Butler