Election Day Is Nearly Two Weeks Away
With Election Day now just over two weeks away, I want to remind Illinois voters that there is still plenty of time to make their voices heard in the November 3 General Election.
Voting is one of the most important ways we can participate in our representative government. The decisions made by elected officials have a direct impact on our communities and everyday lives, which is why I encourage every eligible voter to take part in this year’s election.
Early voting is already underway across Illinois, giving voters the flexibility to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day. Whether you prefer to vote early or head to the polls on November 3, I encourage you to make a plan and ensure your voice is heard.
Early voting locations and hours vary by county, so I recommend checking with your local election authority before heading to the polls. Voters who have requested vote-by-mail ballots should also make sure they understand the deadlines for returning them.
With November 3 quickly approaching, I hope everyone will take the opportunity to participate in this important process and have a say in the future of our state.
For early voting locations and additional election information, visit the Illinois State Board of Elections website.
New Loan Program Aims to Help Illinois Farmers Expand Grain Storage
With Illinois farmers facing rising operating costs and uncertain market conditions, a new loan program could provide some much-needed financial flexibility.
The Illinois Finance Authority (IFA) has announced a pilot program offering loans at an expected 2% interest rate to help farmers build or expand on-site grain storage facilities.
Additional storage capacity can help farmers reduce transportation and storage expenses while giving them greater control over when they sell their grain. Rather than selling immediately after harvest, when prices may be lower, farmers can hold onto their crops and potentially take advantage of better market conditions.
Agriculture is a vital part of our local economy, and I believe giving farmers more opportunities to strengthen their operations and remain competitive is important.
The program will utilize privately financed loans, with additional eligibility and application details expected to be announced.
Farmers interested in learning more can contact Francisco Galliano at fgalliano@il-fa.com.
Free Chronic Wasting Disease Testing Available for Illinois Deer Hunters
With deer hunting season underway, I want to remind Illinois hunters about a free resource available to help protect our state’s deer population.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is offering free, voluntary testing kits to help monitor Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a fatal neurological disease that affects deer and other members of the deer family.
Hunters can use these mail-in kits to collect and submit lymph node samples from harvested deer. Kits are available on a first-come, first-served basis and include instructions for collecting and submitting samples.
For years, I fought against IDNR’s controversial deer sharpshooting program, which disregarded the concerns of hunters and landowners. I welcomed the department’s decision earlier this year to end that program and move toward a more cooperative approach to managing CWD.
I believe hunters should be partners in protecting our deer population, and I encourage them to take advantage of this voluntary testing opportunity.
Request a free testing kit online.
Deadline Extended to November 6 for My America 250 Art Contest
Good news for young artists across the 45th Senate District! I’ve extended the deadline for my America 250 Art Contest to November 6, giving students another week to submit their artwork.
As our nation celebrates its 250th birthday, I’m inviting students in 1st through 8th grade to get creative and show what America means to them.
Whether it’s our nation’s freedoms, historic landmarks, local communities or American traditions, I encourage students to use their imagination and celebrate what makes our country special.
Artwork may be up to 8 by 10 inches and created using markers, colored pencils, watercolors, oil pastels or mixed media. Each submission 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 during Veto Session, November 17-20. Every participant will receive a certificate.
Entries can be emailed to Lori at LYates@sgop.ilga.gov or delivered to my district office. If dropping off at the office, please email Lori in advance to coordinate a drop-off time.
To register and participate or if you have any questions, please email Lori at LYates@sgop.ilga.gov or call 217-782-2181.
For additional details, read more here.
