Tomorrow is Election Day

Election Day is almost here! Tomorrow, November 3, Illinoisans will head to the polls to cast their ballots in the General Election.

From taxes and public safety to education and the cost of living, there are plenty of important issues facing our state. The people we elect make decisions that affect our daily lives, which is why I encourage every eligible Illinoisan to make their voice heard in this year’s election.

If you haven’t voted yet, there’s still time!

Early voting continues today at designated locations across Illinois, and polls will be open tomorrow from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Before heading out, I encourage you to take a few minutes to check your polling location, review what’s on your ballot and make sure you have a plan to vote.

You can also check with your local election authority for information about early voting locations, hours and other election-related questions.

Whether you’re voting early or heading to the polls tomorrow, I hope you’ll take advantage of this opportunity to make your voice heard!

For polling locations and additional election information, visit the Illinois State Board of Elections website.

Visiting the CTE Academy in Elizabeth

There are a lot of great career opportunities out there that don’t necessarily require a traditional four-year degree, and I recently got to see how one local program is helping students pursue those paths.

I had the opportunity to tour the CTE Academy in Elizabeth, which has been providing career and technical education to high school students and adult learners since 1972.

What impressed me most was the variety of opportunities available to students. Whether they’re interested in auto mechanics, construction, law enforcement or nursing, the academy gives them a chance to develop practical skills and gain valuable experience before entering the workforce.

I was also excited to learn about a recent grant that will help expand the academy’s early childhood education program.

As our communities continue to face a need for skilled workers, programs like CTE Academy are more important than ever.

A big thank you to Director Chad Stenberg and his team for the tour and for everything they do to help students succeed!

Stay Alert for Deer on Roads This Fall

As we head into November, I want to remind drivers across Illinois to keep an extra eye out for deer on the roads.

Fall is one of the busiest times of year for deer activity, especially during mating season. In fact, 41 percent of deer-related crashes in Illinois last year occurred between October and December, with November seeing the most.

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were 14,529 crashes involving deer in 2025, resulting in 677 injury crashes and seven fatalities.

While deer can appear just about anywhere, drivers should be especially cautious on rural roads and during the evening hours. Last year, 69 percent of deer-related crashes occurred in rural areas, and eight out of 10 happened at night.

A few simple precautions can help keep you safe:

• Stay alert: Watch the sides of the road for deer, especially around wooded areas and fields.
• Slow down: If you spot a deer near the road, reduce your speed and be prepared for others to follow.
• Buckle up: Always wear your seat belt, even on short trips.
• Don’t swerve: If a deer enters your path, brake firmly and avoid swerving into oncoming traffic or off the roadway.

Whether you’re heading to work, running errands or traveling across the district, I encourage everyone to take a little extra caution behind the wheel this fall. A few seconds of awareness can make all the difference.

For more information about deer-related collisions, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.

Discussing Economic Development with Local Business Leaders

One of the most valuable parts of my job is hearing directly from the people who know our local economies best.

Recently, I joined representatives from the Northwest Illinois Economic Development Group, JCE Co-op and other area business leaders for a roundtable discussion about the opportunities and challenges facing businesses across northwest Illinois.

We had a productive conversation about several important issues, including pensions, tax credit programs, economic development in rural communities and the role state government plays in shaping our business environment.

Every community has its own challenges, and what works in one part of Illinois may not work in another. That’s why I believe it’s important to have these conversations and hear different perspectives before making decisions in Springfield.

I appreciate everyone who took the time to participate and share their experiences. These discussions give me valuable insight into what’s happening in our communities and the issues that deserve attention at the State Capitol.

The post Senator Chesney’s Week in Review appeared first on Andrew Chesney.

Recently, I joined representatives from the Northwest Illinois Economic Development Group, JCE Co-op and other area business leaders for a roundtable discussion about the opportunities and challenges facing businesses across northwest Illinois.

We had a productive conversation about several important issues, including pensions, tax credit programs, economic development in rural communities and the role state government plays in shaping our business environment.

Every community has its own challenges, and what works in one part of Illinois may not work in another. That’s why I believe it’s important to have these conversations and hear different perspectives before making decisions in Springfield.

I appreciate everyone who took the time to participate and share their experiences. These discussions give me valuable insight into what’s happening in our communities and the issues that deserve attention at the State Capitol.

The post Discussing Economic Development with Local Business Leaders appeared first on Andrew Chesney.

I had the opportunity to tour the CTE Academy in Elizabeth, which has been providing career and technical education to high school students and adult learners since 1972.

What impressed me most was the variety of opportunities available to students. Whether they’re interested in auto mechanics, construction, law enforcement or nursing, the academy gives them a chance to develop practical skills and gain valuable experience before entering the workforce.

I was also excited to learn about a recent grant that will help expand the academy’s early childhood education program.

As our communities continue to face a need for skilled workers, programs like CTE Academy are more important than ever.

A big thank you to Director Chad Stenberg and his team for the tour and for everything they do to help students succeed!

The post Visiting the CTE Academy in Elizabeth appeared first on Andrew Chesney.

Fall is one of the busiest times of year for deer activity, especially during mating season. In fact, 41 percent of deer-related crashes in Illinois last year occurred between October and December, with November seeing the most.

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were 14,529 crashes involving deer in 2025, resulting in 677 injury crashes and seven fatalities.

While deer can appear just about anywhere, drivers should be especially cautious on rural roads and during the evening hours. Last year, 69 percent of deer-related crashes occurred in rural areas, and eight out of 10 happened at night.

A few simple precautions can help keep you safe:

• Stay alert: Watch the sides of the road for deer, especially around wooded areas and fields.
• Slow down: If you spot a deer near the road, reduce your speed and be prepared for others to follow.
• Buckle up: Always wear your seat belt, even on short trips.
• Don’t swerve: If a deer enters your path, brake firmly and avoid swerving into oncoming traffic or off the roadway.

Whether you’re heading to work, running errands or traveling across the district, I encourage everyone to take a little extra caution behind the wheel this fall. A few seconds of awareness can make all the difference.

For more information about deer-related collisions, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.

The post Stay Alert for Deer on Roads This Fall appeared first on Andrew Chesney.

From taxes and public safety to education and the cost of living, there are plenty of important issues facing our state. The people we elect make decisions that affect our daily lives, which is why I encourage every eligible Illinoisan to make their voice heard in this year’s election.

If you haven’t voted yet, there’s still time!

Early voting continues today at designated locations across Illinois, and polls will be open tomorrow from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Before heading out, I encourage you to take a few minutes to check your polling location, review what’s on your ballot and make sure you have a plan to vote.

You can also check with your local election authority for information about early voting locations, hours and other election-related questions.

Whether you’re voting early or heading to the polls tomorrow, I hope you’ll take advantage of this opportunity to make your voice heard!

For polling locations and additional election information, visit the Illinois State Board of Elections website.

The post Tomorrow is Election Day appeared first on Andrew Chesney.

You do not have to wait until Election Day to make your voice heard. Early voting is already underway in Illinois and continues through November 2. Locations and hours vary, so check with your local election authority before heading out.

However you choose to cast your ballot, the important thing is that you take part.

We have all heard about the importance of voting since we were children. But the right to choose who governs us deserves more than a passing mention during election season. It is one of the fundamental freedoms that allows us to hold government accountable and have a say in the decisions affecting our lives.

Government does not operate in some distant world disconnected from the people it serves. Its decisions show up in your property tax bill, your family’s budget, the roads you commute on and the opportunities available in your community. They affect the education your children receive and the public safety services your neighborhood depends on.

The people elected to public office make decisions that carry consequences long after the campaign signs come down. Voting is your opportunity to help decide who will exercise that responsibility on your behalf.

Yet too many people sit out elections, particularly when the presidency is not on the ballot.

In Illinois’ 2022 General Election, the last general election without a presidential contest, approximately 51 percent of the state’s more than 8 million registered voters cast ballots. That means nearly half of registered voters did not cast a ballot. That figure does not even account for eligible citizens who were not registered.

We should want more of our neighbors involved in shaping the future of our communities. A representative government depends on an active citizenry willing to participate and hold elected officials accountable.

I understand why some people become frustrated with politics. The constant campaign advertising and arguing can make it tempting to tune everything out. Others wonder whether their individual vote can make a difference.

But sitting out does not stop government from making decisions. It simply leaves those decisions in the hands of the people who do participate. Your concerns deserve to be part of that conversation.

Being an engaged voter also means taking time to understand the choices before you. Look beyond campaign slogans. Examine candidates’ records and their positions on the issues that matter to you. Review a sample ballot through your local election authority so you know what to expect before you vote.

Making a plan now can help prevent a busy workday or an unexpected obligation from getting in the way.

The Illinois State Board of Elections website is a useful place to start. It provides resources to check your registration, find your polling place and locate early voting sites. You can also find information about voting by mail and contact information for your local election authority.

If you missed the online registration deadline, do not assume you have missed your opportunity to participate. Illinois offers grace-period registration through Election Day at designated locations. Contact your local election authority to confirm where to go and what identification you need to bring.

For those voting on November 3, Election Day polling places are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Confirm your voting location ahead of time and decide when you will go.

Our communities are stronger when more people take an active role in their government. Whatever your political views, I encourage you to study your ballot and make a plan to vote.

Illinois’ future deserves your attention. Make sure your voice is part of it.

The post Senator Chesney’s Column: Make Your Voice Heard This November appeared first on Andrew Chesney.

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.

The post Senator Chesney’s Week in Review appeared first on Andrew Chesney.

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.

The post America 250 Art Contest Deadline Approaching appeared first on Andrew Chesney.

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.

The post $1.8 Million in Grants Available for Illinois Farmers and Food Businesses appeared first on Andrew Chesney.

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.

The post Keep Halloween Fun and Safe with These Simple Tips appeared first on Andrew Chesney.