Election Day Is Just Over a Week Away
The November 3 General Election is just over a week away, and I want to remind Illinoisans of the importance of making their voices heard at the ballot box.
Elections give us the opportunity to have a say in the decisions that shape our communities and the future of our state. From taxes and public safety to education and the cost of living, the people we elect make decisions that affect our daily lives. That is why I encourage every eligible voter to take part in this year’s election.
While Election Day is November 3, Illinoisans do not have to wait until then to cast their ballots.
Early voting is already underway across the state, providing voters with additional opportunities to participate ahead of Election Day. Whether you choose to vote early or head to the polls on November 3, I encourage you to take a few minutes to make a plan.
Early voting locations and hours vary by county, so be sure to check with your local election authority before heading to the polls.
With Election Day quickly approaching, I hope everyone will take the opportunity to participate in this important process. Our representative government works best when citizens are engaged and willing to make their voices heard.
For early voting locations and additional election information, visit the Illinois State Board of Elections website.
Keep Halloween Fun and Safe with These Simple Tips
Halloween is almost here, and families across Illinois are getting ready for a night of costumes and trick-or-treating. While the focus should be on having fun, a few simple precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday.
The Illinois Poison Center (IPC) is sharing a few reminders to help families enjoy a safe Halloween.
Costume Safety:
- Choose flame-resistant costumes that fit properly to prevent trips and falls.
- Make sure masks provide adequate visibility and ventilation.
- Use nontoxic face paint and test it on a small area of skin before applying.
- Remind children not to chew on or break open glow sticks, which can cause irritation if the liquid is released.
Trick-or-Treating Safety:
- Stick to familiar, well-lit neighborhoods.
- Carry flashlights or add reflective tape to costumes and candy bags.
- Watch for approaching vehicles and use caution when crossing streets.
- Remove costume makeup before bedtime to prevent skin irritation.
Families should also be careful when using dry ice for Halloween decorations. Direct contact can cause serious skin injuries, and dry ice should never be placed directly into drinking cups.
For poisoning concerns, call the Illinois Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. Additional safety tips are available on the IPC website.
$1.8 Million in Grants Available for Illinois Farmers and Food Businesses
Illinois farmers and food businesses looking to expand their operations may soon have an opportunity to secure additional funding.
The Illinois Department of Agriculture is making $1.8 million available through its Local Food Infrastructure Grants program to help improve how locally grown and produced food is stored, processed and distributed.
Funding can be used for equipment and infrastructure improvements, including refrigerated vehicles, food storage facilities, processing equipment and community kitchens.
Grants range from $1,000 to $75,000 for individual projects, while collaborative projects may qualify for up to $250,000.
Applications open November 2, 2026, and close January 6, 2027, at noon. Farmers, food businesses and eligible nonprofit organizations interested in applying should begin the required pre-registration process early, as it can take two to four weeks to complete.
For more information, including application requirements, visit the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s website.
America 250 Art Contest Deadline Approaching
There is still time for young artists across the 45th Senate District to show off their creativity! With the November 6 deadline less than two weeks away, I want to remind students in 1st through 8th grade to submit their artwork for my America 250 Art Contest.
As our nation celebrates its 250th birthday, I encourage students to use their imagination to show what America means to them, whether through our freedoms, historic landmarks, local communities or traditions.
Artwork may be up to 8 by 10 inches and created using markers, colored pencils, watercolors, oil pastels or mixed media. Submissions must include the student’s name, school and art teacher’s name.
Winning artwork will be displayed in my district office and at the Illinois State Capitol November 17-20. Every participant will receive a certificate.
Entries can be emailed to LYates@sgop.ilga.gov or delivered to my district office. Please email ahead to coordinate drop-offs.
For additional details, read more here.
