Joining Durand FFA for Ag Day
I had a great time joining students and educators last Friday for Ag Day with the Durand FFA, an event that highlights the importance of agriculture education.
It was impressive to see FFA members take the lead in organizing interactive stations and sharing their knowledge with attendees. The level of preparation and pride they showed in their work speaks volumes about the strength of these programs.
I had the opportunity to visit each station and hear directly from students about their projects and what agriculture education means to them. Their passion and understanding of the industry were clear, and it’s encouraging to see the next generation engaged in a field that is vital to our local economy and way of life.
Events like this are a great reminder of the role our schools play in preparing students for future success. I appreciate the students, advisors, and organizers with the Durand FFA who made the day possible.
Connecting With East Dubuque Students at the Capitol
I met with the East Dubuque 8th -grade class during their visit to the Illinois Capitol, where they were getting a firsthand look at state government. They spent time touring the Capitol and also visited the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum as part of their trip.
I took some time to speak with the students and answer their questions about my role as a state senator, how laws are made, and what it means to represent the 45th District. We also talked about the state budget and Illinois’ economy, and how decisions made in Springfield impact communities like theirs.
They came prepared and asked thoughtful questions, which is always great to see. It’s encouraging to watch students take an interest in how government works and to help connect what they’re learning in the classroom to the real world.
Chesney Visits Meridian Junior High, Talks Role in State Government
I had the opportunity to visit Meridian Junior High in Stillman Valley, where I spent time with students talking about what I do as a state senator and how decisions made in Springfield impact their communities.
The students were prepared with thoughtful questions, asking about everything from how laws are passed to how the state budget works. It was great to see that level of curiosity and engagement at such a young age. Conversations like these are important because they help students better understand how government works and how it affects their daily lives.
During the visit, I also met with Meridian School District Superintendent Dr. Michael Plourde and School Board President John Smith. We had a productive discussion about the district, its priorities, and the challenges schools are facing.
It is always encouraging to see students taking an interest in government and asking meaningful questions about the future.
Demanding Immediate Reforms to Dangerous SAFE-T Act After Cop’s Murder
I am sick and tired of watching good men and women in blue bleed in the streets because Illinois Democrats put criminals first with their radical SAFE-T Act.
Just days ago, a brave Chicago police officer was murdered and another critically wounded. This was the direct result of a failed soft-on-crime experiment that puts repeat offenders back on our streets. Enough is enough.
The SAFE-T Act has turned our pretrial system into a revolving door for violent criminals. We have seen dangerous offenders released only to commit more crimes, including the killing of police officers. Illinois families deserve better.
If we aren’t going to repeal this awful law, then we need to demand real reform. Senate Bill 4195 and House Bill 5757 will close these deadly loopholes. If you commit a new felony while on pretrial release, you stay behind bars. No more excuses.
We must protect our residents and back the blue. The SAFE-T Act must be fixed or scrapped before more heroes pay the ultimate price. Law and order need to come back to Illinois.
