Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (R-IL) joined Reps. Ron Kind (D-WI), Jackie Walorski (R-IN), and Suzan Delbene (D-WA) to lead over 100 bipartisan colleagues in calling on United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Katherine Tai to establish a new exclusion process for the Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports. At a time when many companies and their workers are struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic, renewing this process would help support domestic businesses and target the effects of the tariffs on China, rather than U.S. companies and consumers.

"We all agree that we need to execute a bold, strategic plan to hold China accountable for its unfair trade practices, while encouraging businesses to manufacture and operate in the United States. However, while we strategically and comprehensively engage with China, including through tough enforcement, we must also support good-paying jobs in the United States." wrote the lawmakers. "To support American families, we once again urge USTR to create a pathway for targeted relief from Section 301 tariffs."
 

The full letter can be read here and below.

April 27, 2021

The Honorable Katherine C. Tai
United States Trade Representative
Office of the United State Trade Representative
600 17th Street NW
Washington, DC 20508

Dear Ambassador Tai:

We write today to express strong support for the establishment of a new exclusion process to allow U.S. importers to request relief from the Section 301 tariffs on imports from China. While we strongly support tough and effective action to address China’s unfair trade practices, we believe that there must be a meaningful opportunity for American companies to petition for relief from tariffs. We appreciate USTR’s recent extension of tariff exclusions for COVID-19-related products. However, we feel that the current exclusions are insufficient to provide the badly needed relief for businesses and workers struggling with the unprecedented economic hardship caused by the pandemic. A new exclusion process would provide support to domestic businesses and their workers as many of the products facing the Section 301 tariffs are critical inputs for U.S. supply chains and manufacturing plants that have sustained U.S. jobs through this crisis. Such a process would also provide American businesses across a variety of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, fishing, retail, energy, technology, and services, with the opportunity to petition for exclusions consistent with U.S. economic and foreign policy interests.

In the midst of our constituents’ struggle with COVID-19, American producers, employers, workers, and communities have suffered an additional economic burden: the section 301 tariffs. The lapse of critical exclusions, many of which expired on December 31, 2020, handed many businesses and their workers a significant bill while budgets were already tight. We all agree that we need to execute a bold, strategic plan to hold China accountable for its unfair trade practices, while encouraging businesses to manufacture and operate in the United States. However, while we strategically and comprehensively engage with China, including through tough enforcement, we must also support good-paying jobs in the United States. Many U.S. companies are eager to move supply chains out of China for a variety of reasons and began seeking reliable alternative suppliers over the last several years. However, in many instances those efforts were crippled by travel disruptions and global economic turmoil prompted by COVID-19, particularly for smaller U.S. businesses that do not have a global footprint. U.S. employers need more time to adapt.

Further, re-establishing an exclusion process would be consistent with a congressional directive in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2019 (P.L. 116-6) requiring such a process be established. While one was eventually established, many of the same workers and businesses who were successful in getting relief now find themselves with no avenues of recourse, leaving them at a competitive disadvantage despite already having demonstrated the need for relief.

To support American families, we once again urge USTR to create a pathway for targeted relief from Section 301 tariffs. In our opinion, that process should include a streamlined process for stakeholders to seek relief, including expedited procedures for those who had been granted exclusions in the past. Additionally, in our opinion that process should be transparent, consistently applied, based on facts, including how Section 301 tariffs are applied to businesses, workers and communities, and administered in a way that would not undermine the broader and critically important bipartisan support to address serious concerns with China’s behavior.

Regarding this important matter, we thank you for your full and fair consideration consistent with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Sincerely,

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2x4 Signing in Carthage set for Saturday

CARTHAGE, ILL. – A 2x4 signing organized by Gary and Deann Waddell, leads of the Carthage tiny home build for 2x4’s For Hope will be held from 11-2, Saturday May 1^st at the four way stop of 4^th and Buchanan.

2x4’s For Hope, a 501(c)(3) global organization founded by Mark and Chris Lawrence in May 2015, helps build homes for homeless and at-risk veterans. Each home (576 square feet) costs about $45,000 to construct, and all of the labor is provided by about 100 community volunteers, as well as the veteran who will receive the fully furnished home. The exterior of the home is typically built in two days, and it takes about seven to complete the entire project, with a ribbon cutting ceremony on the eighth day.

The signed 2x4’s, 85 to be exact will be used to build the first tiny home for a veteran in Carthage. The build dates for the first tiny home coming to Carthage is set for June 12^th and 13^th at 738 Lyon Ave.

The 2x4 signing event is open and free to all, including families with children.  Residents are welcome to stop by and either sign these 2x4’s under the tent, or we will bring a board to your car so that you can sign while maintaining social distance.

Individuals interested in donating time or money should call 2x4’s For Hope at 217-779-8779. Visit www.2x4forhope.org to learn more about the organization and its mission, as well as instructions on how to sign up to volunteer for upcoming builds. Monetary donations can be made at Marine Bank in Carthage, by mail to 5700 S 24^th St Quincy IL 62305, as well as PayPal or Venmo on the 2x4’s For Hope website and/or Facebook page (2x4’s for Hope).

“Building Hope and A Future One Board at A time.”

Blanche Shoup the Director of Workforce Office of Western Illinois  describes the programs that she administers to help employers train and recruit employees.  Shoupe also  notes the availability of funds for training employees from one to many available .

Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) authored an op-ed this week in FarmWeekNow discussing America's trade agenda and the impact of trade on Illinois agriculture. Rep. LaHood also spoke with RFD Radio about the outlook for future trade agreements.

Originally published on FarmWeekNow.com: Moving a strong trade agenda forward
By Congressman Darin LaHood

Farmers across the Midwest are experiencing one of the best commodity price reversals in decades. The prices for corn and soybeans have jumped significantly over the last several months and while there are multiple contributing factors, the rewards of the full implementation of the phase one trade deal with China and the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) have no doubt helped drive this turnaround in prices.

As recently as early 2020, farmers were experiencing extremely low prices with corn below $3.50 per bushel and soybeans below $8.30 per bushel. At those prices, farmers could not turn a profit and even worse, were facing the prospect of not keeping their farming operation open. Coupled with marketplace disruptions caused by COVID-19, farm families were experiencing one of the most challenging years in recent memory.

However, more recently, strong demand in both the domestic and international markets returned, driving corn prices to more than $5.50 per bushel and soybeans to more than $14.30 per bushel. The increase has given farmers some optimism as they move through planting season and as our economy emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The agriculture industry supports close to 500,000 jobs in Illinois and is the No. 1 industry in our state. Without free, open, and fair trade, family farms in our state wouldn’t be able to survive.

During my time as a member of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, I have prioritized trade agreements that open markets for our agricultural products and spur job creation here in Illinois. In the 117th Congress, I am honored to have also secured an appointment to the committee’s Trade Subcommittee where I will have the opportunity to further engage in and lead on this important issue for our economy and provide Illinois farmers a seat at the table for important trade negotiations.

With Illinois being a primary agriculture hub, our farmers not only add to our state’s economy, but they fuel the nation’s as well. While the agriculture industry generated $51.1 billion for our state’s economy, Illinois also accounted for 4% of our country’s agriculture sales, and 81% of that comes from crops. Yet the financial impacts don’t stop there. Our farm economy is the lifeblood of rural communities, and we can strengthen the future of our region by expanding fair trade opportunities. As we witnessed in 2020, prices in our commodity markets for corn and beans are more likely to strengthen when we proactively grow demand for our agricultural products.

The farmers I represent compete and win on the global scale as well. Over the past four years, we have made great strides on trade, negotiating in a bipartisan fashion to accomplish a large purchase agreement with China and to modernize our trade relationship with Mexico and Canada. Our recently completed agreements contain sections that should act as templates for ongoing negotiations with the European Union, United Kingdom, Kenya, India, and Brazil. I urge the Biden administration to work with Congress to reauthorize Trade Promotion Authority on time, to prioritize completing high standard free trade agreements, especially those already under negotiation and with our allies, to work toward a phase two agreement with China, and to renew efforts to reform the World Trade Organization to create a more level playing field and hold bad actors accountable.

When Illinois farmers win, our country prospers. We all experienced many ups and downs during 2020, and the ag economy was no different. As we emerge from market anxieties and leave behind the disruptions caused by the pandemic, I know I’ll be continuing to focus on our country’s trade agenda and working to improve demand for our agricultural products around the world through trade.

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Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) made the following statement after the Census Bureau released the 2020 Census Apportionment Results.

"It is disappointing, but unfortunately not surprising that Illinois will lose a Congressional seat following the 2020 Census Apportionment. For years, poor policymaking and fiscal mismanagement by Democrats in Springfield has led to some of the highest taxes in America and made Illinois less competitive. As a result, many Illinoisans have made their voices heard with their feet and left for other states that are more business and tax friendly.

"As redistricting moves forward, it is now critical that Governor Pritzker and Democrats in Springfield stand by their word to support an independent process. Illinoisans do not want a process that allows politicians to pick their own voters."

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Congratulations to the Illini West Volleyball Team on a great season and for being Co-Champions of the Prairieland South Conference. To celebrate this successful season, we are offering conference champions gear. Go to sportsboosters.illiniwest.org/shop and order yours by May 5th!

Carthage, IL – April 26, 2021 – The Hancock County Health Department and Memorial Hospital report nine laboratory-confirmed positive COVID-19 cases since April 19, 2021.  Cases include one male in his 50’s, one male in his 40’s, and one male in his teens.   In addition, female cases include, one female in her 60’s, three females in their 40’s, one female in her 20’s, and one female in her teens.  There have been a total of one-thousand-seven-hundred-forty-one (1741) COVID-19 cases in Hancock County, one-thousand-six-hundred-ninety-nine (1699) people have recovered,  eight (8) people are currently isolated, none hospitalized, and thirty-four (34) have passed.  

If you are experiencing symptoms and would like to get tested you can contact 217-357-0617.  Remember, stay home when ill, wash hands often, clean and disinfect highly touched surfaces and wear a face covering when 6 ft. distancing cannot be maintained. Check-out Memorial Hospital and Hancock County Health Department’s Covid-19 case updates at  https://www.mhtlc.org/news-resources/coronavirus-covid19-informaiton/ 

As of today, April 26, 2021, 4,550 people or 25.50% of the population in Hancock County have been fully vaccinated. Thus far,  9,126 vaccine doses have been administered to county residents. The Hancock County Health Department and Memorial Hospital are currently offering COVID-19 vaccinations to anyone who is interested in getting one.  For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the health department’s call center at 217-604-3829 or log onto Memorial Medical Clinic’s on-line registration  www.mhtlc.org 

CARTHAGE, Ill. — Opening day for the Carthage Farmers Market is set for Monday, May 17. The market will be held from 12:00-3:00 p.m. each Monday from May 17 through October, on the northwest corner of the Hancock County courthouse lawn in Carthage.  

Vendor space at the Carthage Farmers Market is based on a first come-first serve basis.  No items may be purchased until 12:00 p.m. to give the vendors time to set up their booths.  Fresh fruits, vegetables, homemade goods, crafts, and other retail items are allowed at the market.  Vendors can contact Kristin Huls at 217-357-3141 or hcfbmanager@gmail.com for a vendor packet.

Cost to vendors is $5 per week, or a $75 season pass for a reserved space.  The market is also ideal for group fundraising.  

The Carthage Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors the market.   To learn more about the market, join the Carthage Illinois Farmers Market group on Facebook or contact Kristin Huls at the Hancock County Farm Bureau Office at 217/357-3141 or Amy Graham at Carthage Community Development at 217/357-3800. 

Carthage, IL – Thursday, April 22, 2021 – Memorial Medical Clinic Colchester, located on 110 Market Street, is excited to announce that they are holding a drive-up Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic.

The first dose of this vaccine will be administered on Tuesday, May 4, from 4:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. Vaccines will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis for up to 50 individuals. Those who receive the vaccine will be asked to return to receive the second dose on Tuesday, June 1, between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Carside service will be offered at this clinic, weather permitting. Participating individuals are asked to bring a copy of their driver’s license, insurance card, and current phone number. 

Those who are 18 years of age and older and live in the state of Illinois qualify to receive a vaccine at this clinic. For more information regarding vaccine eligibility, please refer to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) at dph.illinois.gov. 

Those who are unable to attend MMC Colchester’s vaccine clinic but wish to be vaccinated are encouraged to sign up online at mhtlc.org for future vaccine clinics held by Memorial Medical Clinics.  Memorial Hospital and Memorial Medical Clinics would like to thank the community for their patience and understanding as they work to vaccinate our community. 

Memorial Hospital would like to remind the community to continue taking precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Please continue to wear a mask in public places and practice social distancing whenever possible. Individuals should call Memorial’s COVID-19 hotline at (217) 357-0617 if you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19 or if you are experiencing ANY symptoms related to COVID-19, which include mild to severe respiratory illness with fever or chills, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, the new loss of sense of taste and/or smell, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.

Memorial Hospital is committed to delivering outstanding healthcare.  Memorial Hospital is a 501(c)(3) non-profit critical access hospital that employs over 250, offers emergency, surgical, imaging (x-ray), laboratory, obstetrics, six clinics throughout the region, specialty clinics, and much more.  The hospital has served the residents of the Hancock County area since 1950. For more information, please find us on the web at www.mhtlc.org.  

Memorial hospital honored as statewide champion

Carthage, IL – Monday, April 26, 2021 – Memorial Hospital’s response to joining Telligen to address high priority health issues during COVID-19 and beyond has demonstrated a high level of commitment towards the overall health of our communities. The pandemic has not only highlighted the importance of community members working together, but also how collaboration can drive community-centered health outcome improvement.

For more than four decades, Telligen has assisted multi-sector partners with improving community-wide health and wellness.  Telligen honors Memorial Hospital’s hard work, passion and dedication to providing patients, families, neighbors, and staff with the highest quality of care.  Having the time to bring everyone together, define, and organize collective action can be complex and challenging not only now amidst COVID, but always.  Telligen utilizes tools rooted in evidence, action, measurement, timelines, and celebration towards achievement. Telligen is pleased to present this award in recognition of outstanding activation by Memorial Hospital. 

Telligen also invites Medicare beneficiaries, family caregivers, and advocates who live in Telligen’s four state region (Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, and Oklahoma) to volunteer as Community Ambassadors. Community Ambassadors will participate alongside healthcare professionals, community organizations, community leaders, and other Ambassadors in the Telligen QI ConnectTM events to directly influence how care is delivered in our communities in order to make healthcare safer, more accessible, and more cost-effective.  Contact Risa Hayes at rhayes@telligen.com for more information.

Telligen QI Connect™ is the Quality Innovation Network - Quality Improvement Organization (QIN-QIO) for OK, CO, IL and IA.  For more than 45 years, Telligen has been transforming lives and economies by improving health. Telligen serves commercial clients and government programs at the federal, state and local level, improving health outcomes for millions of people nationwide. For more information, visit www.telligen.com and www.telligenqinqio.com.

Memorial Hospital is a 501(c)(3) non-profit critical access hospital, which employs over 250 individuals, offers emergency, surgical, imaging (x-ray), laboratory, obstetrics, six clinics throughout the region, specialty clinics, and more. Memorial Hospital has served the residents of Hancock County and surrounding areas since 1950. For more information, find us on the web at www.mhtlc.org 

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Pictured left to right: Raigan Brown, Memorial Hospital CNO; Nancy Huls, Director of Integrity and Medical Staff Services; Shelly Hunter, Director of Inpatient Services

Click the Link Below for Live Stream

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA6JaXnRVJfcXnMSwPw6g9w/live

Kristin Huls from the Hancock County Farm Bureau 

recounts the successful household hazardous waste collection on April 17, the beginning of the Carthage Farmers Market, and the looming announcement of the three HCFB Foundation scholarships.

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) announced today that his bipartisan Rural and Underserved Small Hospital (RUSH) Protection Act was signed into law by President Joe Biden. This legislation will update and provide a needed technical fix to the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act to help ensure Rural Health Clinics across the state have the resources they need to provide access to care for patients in rural and underserved communities.    

“It’s critical that all Illinoisans have access to high-quality care regardless of where they live,” said Rep. LaHood. “That’s why I introduced bipartisan legislation to support our Rural Health Clinics and make sure those established during 2020 don’t experience unforeseen financial penalties. We must continue to support our outstanding rural health care providers and protect access to care for rural communities across Illinois, and this law is an important step in doing just that.”  

"OSF HealthCare very much appreciates the efforts of Congressman LaHood to protect the needed funding for Rural Health Clinics.  This bipartisan measure will prevent harmful cuts and help to protect rural communities that depend on these important clinics for their healthcare," added Chris Manson, Vice President of Government Relations at OSF HealthCare.   

Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) play a vital role in providing access to care for rural communities across Illinois and have been on the frontlines of combatting COVID-19 in our rural regions. Unfortunately, due to a drafting error in the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act, many RHCs affiliated with both critical access hospitals and larger health systems that opened in 2020 could face significant Medicare payment cuts. The RUSH Protection Act will correct this error and help ensure RHCs can continue their critical work of providing care for patients in our rural communities. 

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HANCOCK COUNTY REPORTS FIFTEEN COVID-19 CASES SINCE APRIL 12, 2021

Carthage, IL – April 19, 2021 – The Hancock County Health Department and Memorial Hospital report fifteen laboratory-confirmed positive COVID-19 cases since April 12, 2021.  Cases include one male in his 70’s, one male in his 60’s, three males in their 40’s, and two males in their teens.   In addition, female cases include, one female in her 50’s, one female in her 40’s, one female in her 30’s, one female in her 20’s, two females in their teens and two pre-teen females.  There have been a total of one-thousand-seven-hundred-thirty-two (1732) COVID-19 cases in Hancock County, one-thousand-six-hundred-eighty-five (1685) people have recovered,  eleven (11) people are currently isolated, two (2) hospitalized, and thirty-four (34) have passed.  

If you are experiencing symptoms and would like to get tested you can contact 217-357-0617.  Remember, stay home when ill, wash hands often, clean and disinfect highly touched surfaces and wear a face covering when 6 ft. distancing cannot be maintained. Check-out Memorial Hospital and Hancock County Health Department’s Covid-19 case updates at  https://www.mhtlc.org/news-resources/coronavirus-covid19-informaiton/ 

As of today, April 19, 2021, 4,400 people or 24.66% of the population in Hancock County have been fully vaccinated. Thus far,  8,909 vaccine doses have been administered to county residents. The Hancock County Health Department and Memorial Hospital are currently offering COVID-19 vaccinations to anyone who is interested in getting one.  For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the health department’s call center at 217-604-3829 or log onto Memorial Medical Clinic’s on-line registration  www.mhtlc.org 

Click Below for LIVE LINK

http://www.facebook.com/Warsaw-CUSD-316-756108174467027

GALESBURG — Carl Sandburg College’s Corporate & Leisure College is providing an opportunity for welders to sharpen their tools and for others to spark their interest in the trade.

The College will host a pair of welding classes from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. May 15 and 22 at Sandburg’s Center for Manufacturing Excellence, 2051 Tom L. Wilson Blvd., allowing individuals interested in welding to learn basic skills. It also will provide those with prior welding experience to review processes such as shielded metal arc welding; gas metal arc welding; gas tungsten arc welding; oxyacetylene cutting and welding; and inner and dual shield flux core welding.

Both eight-hour sessions will be led by Rich Bloomgren, a Sandburg alumnus with more than a decade of welding experience. The total cost of the sessions is $175 (personal safety equipment not included).

For more information or to register, contact Sandburg’s Corporate & Leisure College at 309.345.3501 or community@sandburg.edu.

VIEW STORY ONLINE

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LaHood, Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers Introduce New Bill to Improve Care for Alzheimer’s Patients

Washington, D.C. –  Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18), co-chair of the Ways and Means Alzheimer's Working Group, and a bipartisan group of lawmakers today introduced a comprehensive new bill to help families across the country dealing with Alzheimer’s disease. The Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act would help the 95% of individuals with dementia that have one or more other chronic conditions, such as hypertension, heart disease and diabetes. 

The bipartisan bill reduces medical complications for these patients by creating a new way to fund dementia care through Medicare. This new model of managing care can help reduce hospitalizations and emergency department visits and delay nursing home placement, which improves the quality of life for patients and makes treatment more affordable.

One in ten seniors in the United States struggles with Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is expected to double to 14 million Americans in the next 30 years.

“Alzheimer's impacts millions of families in America and in Illinois’ 18th District. It is important that we continue to work to provide high quality care to individuals impacted by this disease,” said Rep. LaHood. “Our bipartisan bill will support continued innovation for Alzheimer’s treatment by the healthcare community and work to support patients, families, and caregivers through expanded policies in support of greater coordination of care.” 

"Providing care for an individual living with dementia involves many unique and often challenging elements, leaving Illinoisans and millions of Americans left to navigate a complicated health care maze on their own. We are grateful to Rep. LaHood for introducing the bipartisan Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer's Act, an important next step on the path to high-quality dementia care.” Delia Jervier, Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter Executive Director.

The Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act improves the lives of those living with Alzheimer’s disease. The bill would: 

1. Provide comprehensive care management services, including monitoring of additional health conditions, medication management and care coordination.

2. Establish high standards of care by evaluating the quality of care provided to patients, including clinical outcomes, patient and caregiver experience, and utilization of care.  

3. Eliminate cost-sharing for patients and pay providers a monthly amount based on the complexity and quality of the patient’s care. It would allow both large and small providers to participate, including hospitals, community health centers and rural health clinics. 

4. Ensure that caregivers are supported and able to participate in the coordination and management of care. 

5. Require outreach to underrepresented populations, as well as culturally appropriate care.

“The needs of someone with Alzheimer’s disease and their family members who are caring for them are unique and especially challenging. This bill takes a comprehensive approach in addressing these unique health care needs through innovative planning, high standards of care, support for caregivers and reduced costs,” said Senator Stabenow.

“As the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia continues to increase, it is vital we look for ways to better care for them,” Senator Capito said. “By enhancing the coordination of this care, we can lessen the burden for patients and their caregivers while reducing health care costs by preventing unnecessary physician visits or duplicate tests. Having been a caregiver for my parents living with Alzheimer’s disease I know how needed this model is.”

Congressman Brian Higgins said, “Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease both for the afflicted and those who love them. This legislation recognizes the unique challenges and needs of families struggling with Alzheimer’s disease and takes a novel approach to improve treatment coordination, care quality and patient outcomes.”

“Alzheimer’s is a cruel disease that affects not only those diagnosed, but also their families and loved ones. With an estimated more than six million Americans living with Alzheimer’s, many Americans know the impact of Alzheimer’s as well other dementias firsthand. Alzheimer’s is a leading cause of death in the U.S. Additionally, health care costs can be financially devastating for patients. Health care costs associated with Alzheimer’s disease are projected to be $335 billion for this year and are expected to increase. I’m proud to introduce the Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act with Senator Stabenow, Senator Capito, Representative Tonko, Representative Higgins, and Representative LaHood to help improve overall care for patients with dementias and their caregivers,” said Congressman Guthrie.

“Congress can make a real difference in the lives of millions of Americans who are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and the millions more who love and care for them, by making treatment more affordable, accessible and comprehensive. I am proud to join my colleagues in the House and Senate to introduce this powerful, compassionate and bipartisan legislation that will improve the lives of countless patients and families. Congress must pass this legislation and more to provide a path of hope to every American struggling with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia,” said Congressman Paul Tonko.

“The introduction of the bipartisan Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act, is the next step on the path to high-quality dementia care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.  For millions of Americans this legislation’s proposed model has the potential to greatly improve dementia care delivery, while reducing costs. On behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer's Impact Movement (AIM), I am grateful to Sens. Shelley Moore Capito and Debbie Stabenow as well as to U.S. Reps. Brian Higgins, Darin LaHood, Paul Tonko and Brian Guthrie for introducing this bipartisan legislation and for caring about everyone impacted by dementia. We look forward to working with the cosponsors to grow support for this critical legislation,” said Robert Egge, Alzheimer's Association chief public policy officer and AIM executive director.

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Click the link below for live stream 

http://www.facebook.com/SE-HS-Girls-Volleyball-Livestream-100332258817203/

Mike Pearman describes the help available for dislocated workers including retraining money, wage offsets, and unemployment benefits.  Contact

:  Hancock County- 217-357-6749  McDonough County- 309-837-1280 or Mike's direct line 309-734-4745

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) announced today that he has been named to the U.S. House of Representatives' House Democracy Partnership, which promotes responsive, effective government and works to strengthen democratic institutions by assisting legislatures in emerging democracies. 

In addition, Congressman LaHood announced that he will co-chair the following caucuses for the 117th Congress: 

• U.S. China Working Group
• U.S. Brazil Caucus
• Digital Trade Caucus
• U.S. Lebanon Friendship Caucus
• Bus Caucus
• Algae Caucus
• International Water and Sanitation Caucus
• Soccer Caucus

"It is an honor to be appointed to the bipartisan House Democracy Partnership," said Rep. LaHood. "As the leading group in Congress that supports global democracy, I look forward to working with my colleagues to support responsive and independent legislatures around the globe. In addition, I am pleased to continue my caucus leadership roles and will continue engaging with Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle and stakeholders in Washington on issues critical to the well-being of residents in central and west-central Illinois."

The House Democracy Partnership 

• The House Democracy Partnership (HDP) works with countries around the world to support the development of effective, independent and responsive legislatures. Using peer-to-peer exchanges, trainings and targeted technical assistance, the commission enhances accountability, transparency, access to information, and government oversight worldwide.

Learn more about the House Democracy Partnership here.

Caucus Leadership 

• U.S.-China Working Group
  • The U.S.-China Working Group is one of the leading forums in Congress for dialogue on the most challenging issues within the U.S.-China relationship
  • China remains an important trade market for Illinois farmers and manufacturers 
  • Rep. LaHood will Co-Chair the working group alongside Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA)
• U.S.-Brazil Caucus
  • The U.S.-Brazil Caucus is focused on identifying ways to expand the flow of trade between the U.S. and Brazil and fostering a stronger relationship between the two countries
  • Brazil is one of the top ten countries in total U.S. exports from Illinois, according to the Census Bureau, making it a critical trading partner for our local farmers and companies
  • Rep. LaHood will Co-Chair the caucus alongside Stephanie Murphy (D-FL)
• Digital Trade Caucus
  •  The Digital Trade Caucus is focused on engaging and educating lawmakers to make sure our trade policies are up to date with our changing and digitized economy 
  • As the agriculture industry modernizes into the digital economy, ensuring our farmers have access to up to date technology will be vital to their success
  • Rep. LaHood will Co-Chair the caucus alongside Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA)
• U.S. Lebanon Friendship Caucus
  • The U.S.-Lebanon Friendship Caucus is focused on maintaining and strengthening the long-term relationship between the U.S. and Lebanon
  • Over 8,000 Lebanese Americans call the greater Peoria area home
  • Rep. LaHood will Co-Chair the caucus alongside Rep. Charlie Crist (D-FL), Darrel Issa (R-CA), and Debbie Dingell (D-MI)
• Bus Caucus
  • The  Bus Caucus aims to promote the benefits of long-term federal investment in the nation’s bus systems, address the challenges of an aging bus fleet and advance technological innovation in transit
  • Rep. LaHood will Co-Chair the caucus alongside Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA)
• International Water and Sanitation Caucus
  • The Water and Sanitation Caucus promotes the importance of clean drinking water and sanitation around the world 
  • Rep. LaHood will Co-Chair the caucus alongside Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Jackie Walorski (R-IN), and Grace Meng (D-NY)
• Soccer Caucus
  • The Soccer Caucus engages with leadership, non-profits, and soccer professionals  to promote the goals of leadership and sportsmanship through the game of soccer and the importance of health and physical activity as part of the overall education of our youth
  • Rep. LaHood will Co-Chair the caucus alongside Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA), Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE), and Kathy Castor (D-FL)

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Carthage, IL – April 11, 2021 – The Hancock County Health Department and Memorial Hospital report six laboratory-confirmed positive COVID-19 cases since April 4, 2021.  Cases include one male in his 40,s, one male in his 30’s, one male in his 20’s and one male in his teens.   In addition, female cases include, one female in her 70’s, and one female in her 20’s.  There have been a total of one-thousand-seven-hundred-seventeen (1717) COVID-19 cases in Hancock County, one-thousand-six-hundred-seventy-two (1672) people have recovered,  ten(10) people are currently isolated, one (1) hospitalized, and thirty-four (34) have passed.  

 If you are experiencing symptoms and would like to get tested you can contact 217-357-0617.  Remember, stay home when ill, wash hands often, clean and disinfect highly touched surfaces and wear a face covering when 6 ft. distancing cannot be maintained. Check-out Memorial Hospital and Hancock County Health Department’s Covid-19 case updates at  https://www.mhtlc.org/news-resources/coronavirus-covid19-informaiton/ 

As of today, April 11, 2021, 4,211 people or 23.60% of the population in Hancock County have been fully vaccinated. Thus far,  8,618 vaccine doses have been administered in the county. The Hancock County Health Department and Memorial Hospital are currently offering COVID-19 vaccinations to anyone who is interested in getting one.  For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the health department’s call center at 217-604-3829 or log onto Memorial Medical Clinic’s on-line registration  www.mhtlc.org 

Moira Rothert of Memorial Hospital explains the process of the Swing Bed designation that allows patients to recover within the Hospital rather than being transferred to a long term care facility or remaining out of town.  The Swing Bed gives patients more time to complete physical therapy or continue a drug therapy regimen within Memorial Hospital.  This option will allow patients to transfer into Memorial Hospital to be closer to home or avoid a short term stay at a Long Term Care facility.

Amy Gee confirms the next steps for moving the new library project forward after the successful passage of the Carthage Library Bond issue.  Tory Buchert describes the April activities at the Carthage Library.

 Have you misplaced your COVID-19 vaccination record card?  If you received your COVID-19 vaccines from the Hancock County Health Department and misplaced your card, you may request documentation by emailing covid19vaccproof@hchd1.org .  In the email be sure to include your name, phone number and birth date.  Your request will be responded to within five (5) working days.  A copy of your vaccination card will be emailed to you to print at your convenience.  Requests for proof of vaccination will only be accepted by email, no telephone requests will be accepted. Plan ahead; don't wait until the last minute to request proof of your vaccination documentation.

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Kristin Huls reminds everyone of the Household hazardous waster collection on Saturday 4-17-2021 as well as the 1st Grade virtual farm visit.

Click on the link below to watch the live stream of          Illini West Charger Football! 

https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/schools/havana-high-school-havana-il

Melita Finney from the Hancock County Health Department  on Real Country in the mornings with Kevin Flynn  in the confirms the expansion of COVID 19 vaccination pools in Hancock County.  She also notes the process to replace a lost vaccination record as well as the progress towards the bridge phase of the reopen Illinois plan.

Dirk Loeffler with the Workforce Office of Hancock County   describes the efforts to loop local businesses into structuring vital positions into an apprenticeship career path for entry level personnel on  Real Country in the Mornings with Kevin Flynn

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Carl Sandburg College to Host Industrial & Skilled Trades Career Expo April 15

April 8, 2021
 

GALESBURG — Carl Sandburg College will host an Industrial and Skilled Trades Career Expo from 4-8 p.m. April 15 in the Center for Manufacturing Excellence on its Main Campus in Galesburg, 2051 Tom L. Wilson Blvd., for individuals searching for a job or interested in learning about careers in the skilled trades industry.

Businesses and organizations from the industrial and skilled trades industries will be on hand to meet with job seekers from 4-6 p.m. during the first portion of the event.

Then from 6-8 p.m., tours of the CME will be available, and there will be informational sessions with faculty from Sandburg’s career and technical education programs for anyone interested in learning more about manufacturing, automotive or agricultural careers. Staff members from Sandburg’s Student Services Office also will be on hand to discuss services available to students, including scholarship opportunities and financial aid.

The Industrial and Skilled Trades Career Expo is free and open to the public. Due to COVID-19, masks are required and attendees must fill out a brief health survey upon entry. For more information, including an updated list of participating organizations, visit www.sandburg.edu/careerexpo.

The following organizations are scheduled to participate in the Industrial and Skilled Trades Career Expo (subject to change):

• Advance Services
• Birkey's Farm Store
• Carl Sandburg College (Human Resources)
• Carthage System & Professional Swine Management
• Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters JATC - Pekin campus
• General Grind & Machine Inc.
• Horizons HR
• John Deere Company
• Kress Corporation
• Manufacturing Maintenance Solutions
• Smart Local 91
• Trackside Solutions
• Trillium Dell Farm
• United Migrant Opportunity Services (UMOS)
• Yemm Auto

For more information, contact Tracy Engstrom, coordinator of career development, at 309.341.5246 or tengstrom@sandburg.edu, or visit www.sandburg.edu/careerexpo.

Hancock County CEO Hosts Trade Show CARTHAGE, IL ~ The Hancock County Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities (CEO) Class will host its annual Trade Show on Tuesday, May 4, 2021 from 4 PM-6 PM at Lake Hill Winery and Banquet Hall, 1822 East County Road 1540 in Carthage. The Hancock County CEO Trade Show is the culminating activity of a year-long accredited entrepreneurship course designed to utilize public/private partnerships that allow a community to connect with its best resource – its young people. The Hancock County CEO Class is open to all juniors and seniors in the four county high schools. The Trade Show highlights each student’s individual business and gives attendees the opportunity to meet the students, hear about their personal businesses, purchase product and/or a service, and learn more about the CEO program. Hancock County CEO will continue following the public health guidelines that have kept us safe during the pandemic, such as wearing a mask in public and social distancing. Capacity at the winery will be monitored. For more information on the Hancock County CEO Program or the Hancock County CEO Trade Show, please contact Christine Murphy at (309) 224-3016 or cmurphy.hancockceo@gmail.com.

Click the Link below to watch the live stream! 

www.nfhsnetwork.com/schools/warsaw-high-school-coop-with-hamilton-warsaw-il

GALESBURG — Carl Sandburg College will host a luncheon and signing ceremony at 12:30 p.m. April 6 in the Donald G. Crist Student Center on its Main Campus in Galesburg to commemorate a seven-figure pledge made by alumna Tracey Moore Baker and her husband, Mark Baker.

WHAT

Tracey Moore Baker — a Galesburg native and 1984 graduate of Sandburg’s nursing program — and Mark Baker have pledged a seven-figure estate gift, the largest in the College’s history. This ceremony will formally recognize their incredible and life-changing commitment to Sandburg.

WHO
Among those available for comment will be:

• Tracey Moore Baker and Mark Baker
• Dr. Seamus Reilly, president, Carl Sandburg College
• Emily Webel, executive director of advancement, Carl Sandburg College Foundation

WHEN
12:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 6

WHERE
Donald G. Crist Student Center, Carl Sandburg College, 2400 Tom L. Wilson Blvd., Galesburg

COVID-19 PROTOCOLS
Masks are required, and a brief health screening must be completed upon arrival.

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GALESBURG — Carl Sandburg College will host a luncheon and signing ceremony at 12:30 p.m. April 6 in the Donald G. Crist Student Center on its Main Campus in Galesburg to commemorate a seven-figure pledge made by alumna Tracey Moore Baker and her husband, Mark Baker.

WHAT

Tracey Moore Baker — a Galesburg native and 1984 graduate of Sandburg’s nursing program — and Mark Baker have pledged a seven-figure estate gift, the largest in the College’s history. This ceremony will formally recognize their incredible and life-changing commitment to Sandburg.

WHO
Among those available for comment will be:

• Tracey Moore Baker and Mark Baker
• Dr. Seamus Reilly, president, Carl Sandburg College
• Emily Webel, executive director of advancement, Carl Sandburg College Foundation

WHEN
12:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 6

WHERE
Donald G. Crist Student Center, Carl Sandburg College, 2400 Tom L. Wilson Blvd., Galesburg

COVID-19 PROTOCOLS
Masks are required, and a brief health screening must be completed upon arrival.

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LaHood Introduces Bill to Enhance Federal Historic Tax Credit; Assist Historic Rehabilitation Projects Put on Hold During Pandemic

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL) and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), reintroduced legislation to improve and enhance the federal Historic Tax Credit. The Historic Tax Credit Growth and Opportunity Act would bring relief to historic rehabilitation projects impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic while also improving the credit for small projects and expanding the number of projects eligible to receive the credit. Since joining Congress, Rep. LaHood has been a champion of the Historic Tax Credit. 

“In central and west-central Illinois, we have a rich history that includes many historic buildings and landmarks,” stated Rep. LaHood. “The Historic Tax Credit has played a critical role in preserving heritage in the State of Illinois and spurring economic growth in our rural communities. Strengthening this tax credit will expand economic development in Illinois and allow for more historic preservation projects to move forward.”

“We thank Congressmen LaHood and Blumenauer and all the bill’s sponsors for their continued efforts to expand the vital rehabilitation tax credit that spurs the reuse of historic places and economic development in Illinois communities,” said Bonnie McDonald, President & CEO of Landmarks Illinois. “This legislation is a needed enhancement to this proven private investment incentive, and a welcome boost for small and midsize projects, affordable housing projects and those faced with rising costs and limited access to capital as a result of the pandemic.”

“Historic rehabilitation projects across the country have been put on hold or shelved altogether as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It would be devastating to lose this history forever,” Rep. Blumenauer said. “As we look to build back better, an improved Historic Tax Credit will be an important tool to create local jobs, increase private investment in our communities, and preserve thousands of buildings that celebrate and inform our heritage and sense of place.”

Since its inception in 1976, the Historic Tax Credit has incentivized private sector investment in the rehabilitation of historic buildings, attracting approximately $173 billion in private capital and helping to revitalize communities across the country. To date, more than 45,000 buildings have been rehabilitated using the credit, creating nearly 3 million jobs. Unlike many other tax incentives, Historic Tax Credit projects spur enough economic development to return money to the Treasury. In 2019 the National Park Service reported that the HTC has generated $38.1 billion in federal tax revenue from $32.9 billion in tax credits.

The Historic Tax Credit Growth and Opportunity Act builds on the success of the existing credit by enacting temporary changes to account for challenges that historic rehabilitation projects have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes:

• A temporary increase in the credit value to address market volatility and projects’ difficulty in accessing capital.
• A permanent increase of the existing credit value from 20% to 30% for small projects, which are often more difficult to finance.
• Revisions to the structure of the credit to make more buildings eligible for the credit and allow for the credit to be more easily paired with the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit.

“The provisions in the Historic Tax Credit Growth and Opportunity Act of 2021 represent the most significant improvements in the HTC program since its inception,” said Merrill Hoopengardner, the Chair of the Historic Tax Credit Coalition. “We appreciate the leadership of Cong. Blumenauer, LaHood, Higgins, and Sewell and we look forward to working with them and all the supporters of the HTC to make these improvements a reality during the upcoming infrastructure discussions.”

Full text of the updated Historic Tax Credit Growth and Opportunity Act can be found here. 

Related: 
Historic Tax Credit Bill Introduced by LaHood, Blumenauer, Cassidy, and Cardin
LaHood, Blumenauer, Kelly, and Sewell Introduce Legislation to Improve the Federal Historic Tax Credit
Rep. LaHood Holds Roundtable on New Federal Historic Tax Credit Legislation

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Live Stream   Click Below

https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/schools/lewistown-high-school-lewistown-il

 Watch live stream Click Below:

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBhUGvWxwA_IgsAlEfYvtDA

HANCOCK COUNTY REPORTS EIGHT COVID-19 CASES SINCE MARCH 29, 2021

Carthage, IL – April 4, 2021 – The Hancock County Health Department and Memorial Hospital report eight laboratory-confirmed positive COVID-19 cases since March 29, 2021.  Cases include one male in his 70,s, one male in his 20’s, one male in his teens and two males under 10 years old.  In addition, female cases include, one female in her 70’s, and one female in her 40’s.  There have been a total of one-thousand-seven-hundred-eleven (1711) COVID-19 cases in Hancock County, one-thousand-six-hundred-sixty (1660) people have recovered, fifteen(15) people are currently isolated, two (2) hospitalized, and thirty-four (34) have passed.  

  If you are experiencing symptoms and would like to get tested you can contact 217-357-0617.  Remember, stay home when ill, wash hands often, clean and disinfect highly touched surfaces and wear a face covering when 6 ft. distancing cannot be maintained. Check-out Memorial Hospital and Hancock County Health Department’s Covid-19 case updates at  https://www.mhtlc.org/news-resources/coronavirus-covid19-informaiton/ 

As of today,April 4, 2021, 3,944 people or 22.10% of the population in Hancock County have been fully vaccinated. Thus far,  8,235 vaccines have been administered. The Hancock County Health Department, Memorial Hospital, HyVee Pharmacy in Hamilton and the Adams County Health Department are currently offering COVID-19 vaccinations to those currently eligible.  For more information you may visit any of these websites or Facebook pages. 

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Watch the Chargers in action.

APRIL 2ND  Game

Illini West   Football  vs LEWISTON    

             START TIME  6 PM

                          Click on the link below        

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA6JaXnRVJfcXnMSwPw6g9w/live

Click the link Below for Streaming

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA6JaXnRVJfcXnMSwPw6g9w/live