Simmons champions single parents’ bill of rights

Springfield- In an effort to support single working parents, State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) initiated a measure that will allow them to claim unpaid time off from work to support their child's needs.

“Single parents deserve the same rights and protections as parents who have partners,” said Simmons. “When I had the opportunity to meet with a group of these parents, many of them talked about the need for time off from work to meet with their children’s teachers or tend to other well-being needs of their kids.”

Read more: Simmons champions single parents’ bill of rights

Joyce, Bertino-Tarrant secure more than $600,000 to revitalize University Park

UNIVERSITY PARK – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has released a grant of more than $600,000 to Riegel Farm for infrastructure improvements, thanks to the efforts of Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant and State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex).

“Riegel Farm is an untapped resource in the heart of University Park,” Joyce said. “This investment will provide recreation and education to area residents as well as visitors, which will benefit our community for years to come. I look forward to seeing this project develop in the months ahead.”

The Reigel Farm Revitalization Project offers a truly unique educational and recreational opportunity. This once active farm offers access to softball fields, tennis courts and historic farm buildings, which once served as the home of University Park’s Parks and Recreation Department.

This department previously ran an educational petting zoo and educated area residents about historic farming practices. The community has long since desired the reactivation of this truly one-of-a-kind resource.

Read more: Joyce, Bertino-Tarrant secure more than $600,000 to revitalize University Park

Village of Palatine receives over $100,000 for broadband expansion

PALATINE – More than $100,000 is coming to Palatine to expand broadband access, thanks to efforts from State Senator Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights).

“Internet access has become increasingly important the past few years, so connecting our schools, workplaces and homes must be a priority,” said Gillespie. “Working from home and online schooling remains a challenge for people who lack quick, reliable access to broadband. Today, we change that for our neighbors in Palatine.” 

Read more: Village of Palatine receives over $100,000 for broadband expansion

Belt and Crowe celebrate over $200,000 in broadband grants for Metro East area

EAST ST. LOUIS – Over $200,000 in grant funding is coming to Madison and St. Clair Counties to enhance broadband accessibility for residents, thanks to support from State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Swansea) and State Senator Rachelle Crowe (D- Glen Carbon).

“The pandemic showed the need for an increase in broadband services through economic opportunity, remote learning and health care services,” Belt said. “These grants will bring resources toward the health, growth and education of our community through expanded accessibility.”

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced funding for 22 projects in every region of the state. The money is part of the second round of Connect Illinois to improve the lives of families, farmers, businesses, community institutions and other Illinoisans who rely on high-speed broadband for everything from education to healthcare access.

Read more: Belt and Crowe celebrate over $200,000 in broadband grants for Metro East area