Hello Stephanie,

Happy New Year! I hope you're doing well and looking forward to the possibilities in 2024. I'm currently in Japan, spending time with my son Sam, who's in the Navy. Though we're usually far apart, right now we're making great memories together while we can.

I'm grateful for these special moments, and it makes me think about our service members who can't be with their families. Let's keep them in mind and appreciate their commitment to our nation.

As we start the new year, I want to share info about state programs that can help you or someone you know. It's important to check in on neighbors, friends, and family, especially now. If you need more help, call my office at (630) 585 1308.

Looking ahead to 2024, I'm honored to keep serving our community. I'll be working on legislation to benefit everyone in Illinois. Let's collaborate to address our state's needs.

Wishing you a fantastic 2024, full of opportunities, fresh starts, and, most importantly, good health and happiness.

Take care and be well,

P.S. Read all the way to the bottom to participate in this week's Trivia Challenge!

WHEN: Saturday, January 6, 10:00am - 1:00pm

WHERE: Aurora Santori Library

WHAT: At this free event, the Library will connect families with valuable resources in the community, including social services, preschools, and daycares.

Non-profit organizations and other social services will be in attendance to share their early childhood expertise and offerings. The library will feature Storytimes, arts & crafts, as well as sign attendees up for library cards. The Expo is free for the public and non-profit vendors. As an incentive for kids to attend, we welcome them to participate in our special scavenger hunt to win a prize! 

More than 300 statutes became law on January 1st, including...

• Illinois minimum wage increase to $14 per hour
• Paid Leave for All: 40 hours of paid leave for all Illinois workers
• HB 2789: "Ban on book bans"
• New protections for victims of forged digital images and video
• Banning videoconferencing and social media checking under distracted driving laws
• Banning vaping in most indoor public spaces
• Prohibiting solitary confinement in youth detention facilities
• Prohibiting utility shutoffs during periods of extreme heat
• Prevents being pulled-over for object hanging from rearview mirror
• Requires high schools to teach students about the dangers of fentanyl
• Child Extended Bereavement Leave Act: parents who lost a child to suicide or homicide can take unpaid leave from work without losing their jobs or benefits.

full list here

DCEO has opened up a second round of applications to become a Clean Jobs Workforce Hub program administrator, and they will be hosting a networking event in our area.

WHAT: Clean Jobs Workforce Hub Program networking event

WHERE: Aurora Public Library, Eola Road Branch, Meeting Room 116 (Large Meeting Room)

WHEN: January 16, 1-3 pm

REGISTER HERE: icsps.forms-db.com/view.php?id=190579

more information here

Continuous coverage of Medicaid has ended. Ensure you stay covered by checking your renewal deadline today. Click Manage My Case at abe.illinois.gov or call 1-800-843-6154.

2020 Census determined to have omitted over 46,000 residents in group homes, residence halls.

The review, announced Wednesday, ensured Illinois will receive a proportionate share of the $675 billion in annual funds distributed to states each year.

Contrary to popular reports, the bureau determined that Illinois had in fact gained population in the prior decade.

Illinois will continue to challenge population undercounts and plans to participate in additional opportunities for appeal and review to make further adjustments to the state’s count.

January is National Blood Donor Month! Did you know giving one pint of blood can save up to three lives? If you are eligible, consider making an appointment at your local blood bank and help support your community.

LAST WEEK's ANSWER:

The world's largest ball of Masking Tape was made in Aurora at Cowherd Middle School in 2012. (Read all about it here!)

THIS WEEK's QUESTIONS:

Watch the most recent Coffee Chat on Facebook!

Or, subscribe and listen wherever you get your podcasts 🎧!

I continue to host Monday Morning Coffee live via Facebook at 9:00am-10:00am where you can post your comments and questions.

I realize not everyone has Facebook. The good news is that you can still participate. If you would like to join us on Monday mornings, you can join in via ZOOM! Once connected via ZOOM, you'll be able to interact just as if you were on Facebook. Don't worry you will not be on live - your video feed and mic will be muted.

The ZOOM link will be emailed to everyone separately for Monday morning participation.

If you would like to join us, please email Michelle@ILDistrict84.com or call the

office at 630.585.1308.