Sandburg Foundation awards $88K in innovation grants

 The Carl Sandburg College Foundation recently awarded 12 innovation grants totaling $88,500 to be used toward new initiatives that drive student success.

All Sandburg faculty, staff and instructional departments designed projects of $1,000-$6,000 as a once-a-year opportunity to launch new and innovative ventures. The total amount awarded this year represented an increase of more than $55,000 from 2023.

“The foundation is able to make these innovation grants available in part because of donor generosity,” said Eric Johnson, chief advancement officer for the Sandburg Foundation. “We’re eager to partner and play a role in developing innovations that positively impact student success, our communities, industry and the district. We had a tremendous pool of applicants this year that set the bar high for future innovation grant funding cycles. It was a tough decision for our review committee with plenty of thought and discussion supporting the proposed initiatives.”

Innovation grant funds were awarded for the following projects:
 

Library shelving refresh — Library

The shelving refresh project introduces several innovative features to enhance and optimize space in the Sandburg library. The beginning phase will transform the library shelving system into a more dynamic, user-centric space that embraces technology, provides better accessibility, fosters collaboration and improves the overall library experience for all who use the space.

Hands-on Vernier STEM equipment — Math & Natural Sciences

The hands-on Vernier learning STEM equipment offers a groundbreaking approach to teaching and learning through a fusion of technology, interactivity and real-world experimentation. Vernier is at the forefront of educational technology, revolutionizing the way physics, astronomy and other STEM classes are taught and learned. By combining innovative features with practical experimentation, it better empowers students to explore and understand the fundamental principles of physics in a more dynamic and engaging manner.

Nursing simulation laptops — Nursing

Five new Latitude 5340 laptops for the nursing simulation lab in the new Science & Technology Center will enhance the functionality and effectiveness of the facility. The laptops will improve students' medication administration and documentation by adding experiential learning to knowledge acquired in the dosage calculation course by providing a realistic bedside experience during simulation sessions.

Swing Caddie (SC)-300i golf launch monitors — Athletics (men’s and women’s golf)

Incorporating three SC-300i launch monitors into golf team practices and competitions will revolutionize training for student-athletes, giving them a wealth of accurate and immediate data that empowers players to refine their skills and helps coaches to optimize team performance. The SC-300i monitors provide yardage, ball speed, swing speed, launch angle, smash factor and apex data, which are currently unavailable to the men’s and women’s golf teams during their outdoor practices.

Portable inflatable projection screen — Information Services

This portable projection screen will help enrich campus life, promote community engagement and offer a versatile platform for various events and activities. The college previously rented an equivalent setup for student life and community events, meaning the acquisition of this system will provide cost efficiency.

Solar astronomy technology — Math & Natural Sciences

Two new solar telescopes will provide numerous benefits for students, offering a unique and engaging way to explore the sun. This technology has specialized filters that allow students to view solar features without risking eye damage, ensuring a secure and controlled observational experience when viewing solar flares and active solar regions. Grant funding also was used by the department to purchase glasses for the recent solar eclipse.

Loft cafeteria renovation — Student Life

Members of Sandburg’s Student Government Association came forward this year with an idea to refresh the Loft cafeteria space. SGA members recognized it as an under-utilized space with great potential to serve their peers and the college in numerous ways. The project includes brighter paint and flooring; more natural light; adjusted lighting fixtures for better illumination; new furniture for individual or group gatherings; and attractive seating and workspaces that encourage students to stay on campus while maintaining a flexible area that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Synergy video enhancements — Athletics (baseball)

The Synergy video logging platform offers numerous advantages, including detailed performance analysis, strategic game planning, player development, data-driven performance metrics and enhanced post-game and practice analysis. Synergy provides in-depth video analysis, allowing coaches to break down player performance frame by frame, precisely identifying strengths and areas for improvement.

CPR feedback training manikins and AEDs — Fitness Center

This includes six CPR training manikins and six automated external defibrillators (AEDs). The CPR manikins offer immediate feedback via an app on the efficacy of the skills being performed, such as chest recoil and compression depth and rate. These tools provide learners with real-time guidance, foster confidence and contribute to improved survival rates in critical situations. This equipment will be used every time there is a CPR class administered through the college.

Nomad dental X-ray imaging devices — Dental hygiene

The addition of two Nomads will broaden students’ experiences, employability and exposure to innovative technology. They will provide the opportunity for instructors to train current and future students with the most recent technology being used for dental X-ray imaging. In addition, they will complement other features of the dental hygiene program’s home in the new Science & Technology Center with their ability to be used on the clinical floor and serve as a mobile demonstration model for any classroom or laboratory. The Nomad also provides superior imaging for patients.

Career pathway exploration initiative — Workforce Development & Community Education

The career pathway exploration initiative workshops will introduce participants at Monmouth's Recharge Teen Center to a variety of career opportunities and the corresponding educational pathways offered by Sandburg. This project empowers teens with the knowledge and experience needed to envision their future careers and understand how Sandburg can facilitate their journey toward achieving their goals professionally. These workshops will give teens an immersive experience in various career fields, including health care, technology, trades and business. Each session will offer insights into different professions and highlight the specific programs and credentials Sandburg offers that align with those careers. Through interactive sessions, guest speakers from the industry and hands-on activities, teens will gain a comprehensive understanding of each career and the educational steps needed to get there.

eSkill workforce assessment — Workforce Development & Community Education

eSkill is a subscription-based program already used by Sandburg that offers customized tests across various disciplines including construction, welding, technical computer applications and health care. In continuing this service, Sandburg can use data analysis to identify specific training needs, enhancing the college’s ability to design collaborative corporate training programs. eSkill has proven instrumental for several students, particularly those competing in the SkillsUSA state contest. By customizing tests to match SkillsUSA standards and competition scoring, Sandburg has significantly enhanced students' preparedness for these knowledge-based tests.

For more information about innovation grants or to make a gift in support of this initiative, contact Eric Johnson at ebjohnson@sandburg.edu or 309.341.5349.

 Unforgettable Forgottonia’s Macombopoly was revealed  today May 9th 2024 on the  Historic Macomb square

 Unforgettable Forgottonia’s Macombopoly was revealed  today May 9th 2024 on the  Historic Macomb square which resembles the historic game.   May 9th also is the birthday of original creator Lizzie Magie who was born in Macomb, Illinois on May 9th 1966.  Erin Anderson- Lizzie Magie’s great great niece attended the ceremony to celebrate the occasion with her family.

The vision for Macombopoly was 6 years in the making and received a tourism grant from the State of Illinois. 

The  interactive game is available to be played on any phone with the download link, The Link and the statues will be available to play year round. 

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL INSTALLS CONSUMER DRUG TAKE-BACK
RECEPTACLE FOR SAFE MEDICATION DISPOSAL

Memorial Hospital is pleased to announce the installation of a new
Consumer Drug Take Back Receptacle on its premises. This initiative aims to provide a safe and convenient way for the community to dispose of unused or expired medications,
contributing to the prevention of drug misuse and environmental protection.

The Consumer Drug Take Back Receptacle, located inside the vestibule of the main
entrance under the clock tower at Memorial Hospital, is accessible to the public. Individuals can safely deposit prescription and over-the-counter medications, including pills, capsules, creams, controlled substances, and liquids, without questions.

The Consumer Drug Take Back Receptacle accepts medications in original packaging or
sealed bags. Items that cannot be accepted include herbal remedies, vitamins, supplements,  cosmetics, other personal care products, medical devices, batteries, mercury-containing thermometers, sharps, animal medications, and illicit drugs.

For more information about the Consumer Drug Take Back Receptacle and its guidelines,
contact the Memorial Hospital pharmacy at 217-357-8671.
Pictured: Crystal Huls, Director of Pharmacy at Memorial Hospital

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MEMORIAL HOSPITAL TO HOST NAUVOO WELLNESS EXPO PROMOTING

COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

Memorial Hospital is pleased to announce the Nauvoo Wellness Expo, scheduled
to take place on June 3, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Nauvoo City Center located at 1445 Mulholland St. This event is dedicated to fostering a culture of health consciousness and wellness within the Nauvoo community.

The Nauvoo Wellness Expo will serve as a platform for various workshops, activities, and health screenings aimed at enhancing the overall well-being of community members. Tony Wasielewski, APRN-FNP-C from Memorial Medical Clinic Nauvoo, expressed enthusiasm, stating, "We pleased to participate in an event that prioritizes the health of our community. The Nauvoo Wellness Expo provides an opportunity for individuals to take proactive steps toward better health outcomes and foster a healthier community overall."
The Expo will cater to all age groups, offering activities including essential health screenings like A1C and Blood Pressure checks. Additionally, children’s activities will be available.  Children can visit a special teddy bear clinic, while adults stand a chance to win prizes through various drawings and giveaways.

Ashlyn Housewright, Executive Director Community Health & Wellness at Memorial Hospital, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, "We are excited to gather the community for an evening centered on health and wellness. The Nauvoo Wellness Expo aims to equip individuals with the knowledge to make informed health decisions and lead fulfilling lives."
At the event, community members can meet their local healthcare providers. Attendees can visit interactive wellness stations designed to empower visitors with practical health tips and insights. They can discover more about Memorial Hospital and its comprehensive services to foster a deeper understanding of healthcare in the community.

The Nauvoo Wellness Expo underscores Memorial Hospital's unwavering commitment to wellness promotion and empowering individuals to take control of their health. The event aspires to inspire positive, lasting change within the community.
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Sandburg students win 6 golds, 8 total medals at SkillsUSA Illinois Championships

Sandburg students took home six state championships and eight medals overall at the SkillsUSA Illinois Championships from April 24-26 in Peoria.

Gavin Gerard won gold in masonry and for job interview. Joining him as state champions were Faith Kiprop (technical computer applications), Brian Kipchemis (medical math), Ascar Jepchirchir (medical terminology) and Sullivan Ross (welding sculpture).

As winners of their respective categories, all five students qualified to compete at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference from June 24-29 in Atlanta. This is the second consecutive year Gerard and Kiprop have advanced to the national level. Gerard qualified in the job interview category last year, and Kiprop qualified in technical computer applications.

Also appearing on the medal stand for Sandburg at the state competition were Ryan Leary and Deven Bushong. Leary won silver in welding sculpture, and Bushong was the bronze medalist in that category.

More than 2,000 students took part in the state championship event, which featured competitions in over 100 trade, technical and leadership fields.

More than 5,000 students who are expected to compete at the SkillsUSA national conference. SkillsUSA serves students at the college, high school and middle school level who are preparing for careers in trade, technical and skilled-service occupations and for further education.

Sandburg students (l-r) Faith Kiprop, Ascar Jepchirchir, Deven Bushong, Sullivan Ross, Gavin Gerard, Ryan Leary and Brian Kipchemis hold their awards from the SkillsUSA Illinois Championships on April 26 in Peoria. Gerard (masonry, job interview), Kiprop (technical computer applications), Kipchemis (medical math) Jepchirchir (medical terminology) and Ross (welding sculpture) won their respective categories to advance to the national competition next month in Atlanta. (Courtesy Carl Sandburg College)

Amy Gee and Tori Buckert from the Carthage Public Library discuss with Still  Talking the May Activities and 

UPDATE ON ALL ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE FOR YOUR SUMMER FUN

University of Illinois Extension- Kristin Huls ,TONS OF UPCOMING EVENTS FOR THE SUMMER AND THE EVER POPULAR 4-H FAIR

Longstanding Community Podiatrist Richard Sowlles DPM Joins

Memorial Hospital at New Clinic in Hamilton, IL

Hamilton, IL—Memorial Hospital is thrilled to announce the addition of Richard Sowlles,
DPM. to its esteemed medical team. With a wealth of experience spanning over three decades, Dr. Sowlles brings his expertise in General Podiatric Care, Surgery, and Wound Care to serve the community of Hamilton and its surrounding areas.

A native of Milwaukee, WI, Dr. Sowlles earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the
University of Wisconsin-Parkside before pursuing his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine at the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in Chicago, IL. Throughout his career, Dr. Sowlles has remained committed to advancing the field of podiatric medicine and has held memberships in prestigious organizations such as the Illinois Podiatric Medical Association, American Podiatric Medical Association, and Iowa Podiatric Medical Society.

Prior to joining Memorial Hospital, Dr. Sowlles served as a dedicated practitioner in Hamilton, IL, for over three decades. His exceptional clinical skills and compassionate patient care have earned him the trust and respect of the community. Dr. Sowlles also contributed significantly to the Wound Clinic at Keokuk Area Hospital from 2006 until 2022. Additionally, he worked for  Blessing Hospital in Keokuk, IA, from 2022 to 2024.

"I am happy to join a hospital that supports the community I live in," said Dr. Sowlles. With a longstanding practice in Hancock County and affiliation with Memorial Hospital, Dr. Sowlles is eager to continue providing comprehensive podiatric care to patients of all ages. 
In addition to his professional achievements, Dr. Sowlles is a proud father of three boys and two girls. While his children are grown, he remains dedicated to his family and the community. Outside of medicine, Dr. Sowlles enjoys pursuing his hobbies of fishing and golf.
Dr. Sowlles will be available to serve patients at Memorial Medical Clinic Broadway, located at 951 Broadway St. in Hamilton, IL. The new clinic is scheduled to open on May 9, 2024. Patients can expect personalized care delivered with expertise and compassion. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sowlles, please call 217-551-3100.
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July 6th  Warsaw - 3rd Annual 2024 Freedom Fest Parade Registration

This year's parade theme is "America The Beautiful"

Here are some key details regarding the parade:

Date: July 6, 2024

Parade Kick-Off Time: 10:00 am

Day-of-Registration / Check-In Starts: 9:00 am

Location: Staging will begin at the Warsaw High School Parking Lot

Traveling Trophy Judging will be held directly after the parade.  We would like to thank the 2023 winners The First Presbyterian Church of Warsaw, IL, and their Wobble Wagon.  This year the winner will be announced during intermission at the Freedom Fest Concert. 

As always there is no fee for participating in the parade, and pre-registration is not required, however, have also added another chance to win for those who complete pre-registration before 11:59 pm on 06/08/2024.  We will be having a drawing for a prize, and the winner of this will be announced the morning of the parade. 

Registration can be completed at the following link:

 https://forms.gle/8xgJj9JrmWgzUJx46.

If you or your group has already registered - THANK YOU!

To confirm your participation or for any further inquiries, please reach out to us at warsawfreedomfestparade@gmail.com

Hancock County Economic Development awards 2 Business Grants for 2024

Hancock County Economic Development  offered a 5 week workshop to help business complete or adjust their business plans to assist in development and growth  in Hancock County. Each award was $10,000

In the expansion category: Carter Hitz representing Hatz By Hitz.
Carter is a high school senior who started his business  program as a junior and has been so successful in doing so that he is ready for expansion just a year later.

In the start-up category: Gina Clarke on behalf of River's Edge Wellness offering therapy and counseling services in Warsaw. Gina will be offering remote and in-person services to children and adults.

Hancock County Economin Development will be offering this oppurtunity again in January 2025

Better Business Bureau- Don O Brien  talks with Still Talking about what to look out with Door to Door Offers

Democrats muscle through changes to ballot access, advisory questions

Amendment was introduced and passed within hours 

SPRINGFIELD – Supermajority Democrats in the Illinois House moved quickly Wednesday to push through a change to state election laws that partially limits ballot access and adds three nonbinding referendums to the 2024 general election ballot. 

It’s a move that caused minority party Republicans to vote “present,” then walk off the House floor without even debating the measure, while four Democrats voted against the bill that would amend ballot laws for the election cycle that is already underway.  

Republicans were particularly critical of a provision that prohibits political parties from appointing a candidate to a general election ballot if no member of that party filed nominating petitions for the primary. 

The minority party also criticized Democrats’ hasty movement of the proposed changes from introduction to floor passage. Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, filed the amendment to an unrelated bill, Senate Bill 2412, Wednesday morning before it was quickly moved to committee for passage, then to the floor within hours. It now awaits action in the Senate. 

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, noted at an impromptu news conference on a Capitol stairwell that the GOP has grown accustomed to legislation moving with little public notice – but it usually happens closer to the General Assembly’s end of May adjournment.  

“But we don't understand the sense of urgency right now, unless the goal – the end goal – is to stifle the democratic process through the changes on slating candidates,” she said.

At the same time the amendment was moving through the House, senators were being briefed separately on the proposed changes.

In the Senate Executive Committee, which meets one floor below the House chamber, Republican Leader John Curran, of Downers Grove, argued that changing the rules in the middle of an election cycle would be unfair to potential candidates who are operating under existing rules.

He also said such a move could add to what he called the public’s growing mistrust of the election system generally.

“There's a lot of talk around the country about stealing elections,” Curran said. “And the faith in the democratic process has been shaken a bit around the country. I believe Illinois would be adding to that, really, national problem, if it took that step here and changed the rules midstream rather than just waiting to the next election cycle.”

But Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, noted there are other ways to get on the ballot after the primary has passed. 

“A candidate who would want to run for General Assembly seat after the primary will have to run, as they can today, as an independent or a third-party candidate,” Harmon said. “They would no longer be able to appeal to the local party bosses to have them installed as the candidate of a major political party.”

Privately, GOP lawmakers said they believe the proposed change is designed to influence the outcome of one particular race this year – the 112th House District in the Metro East area, where incumbent Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, is running for reelection.

No Republican filed to run in that race in time for the March 19 primary, but party officials say one is currently being lined up.

Republicans believe that district is winnable for them. Stuart won reelection to that seat in 2022 by a 54-46 margin over Republican Jennifer Korte.

Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, was one of the four Democrats to vote “no” on the bill Wednesday afternoon, though others skipped the vote. She said she’s not opposed to eliminating the slating process beginning in the 2026 election cycle but said doing it now is “moving the goal posts” in the “final minutes of a ballgame.”

“That's problematic for me because as an elected official in Illinois, I'm constantly trying to rebuild trust in Illinois government and politics that many of the people I represent...don't have,” she told Capitol News Illinois after the vote. 

The measure would also pose three nonbinding advisory referendum questions to voters on the November ballot, including asking whether health insurance plans that cover pregnancy benefits should be required to cover in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments.

That mirrors legislation passed in the state Senate last month that would require IVF and other fertility coverage for insurance plans with pregnancy benefits that are sponsored by companies with 25 or more employees.

The other questions would ask voters whether they’d favor civil penalties for any candidate who “interferes or attempts to interfere with an election worker’s official duties” and whether the state should adopt an additional 3 percent tax on income over $1 million.

The extra revenue would be collected “for the purpose of dedicating funds raised to property tax relief” – a perennial concern in a state with the second-highest property taxes in the U.S., just behind New Jersey, according to a 2023 report from The Tax Foundation.

Illinoisans were already asked a similar nonbinding referendum a decade ago, when nearly 60 percent of voters said “yes” to a question about a 3 percent tax on income over $1 million for the purposes of education, which is largely funded by local property taxes. Then-House Speaker Michael Madigan’s push for the so-called millionaire’s tax was seen as a poke at then-gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner, a self-funded Republican who ultimately won the governor’s race and spent his four-year term fighting with the powerful Democratic speaker.

McCombie said Republicans had offered bills aimed at property tax relief on several occasions in recent years. She and state Rep. Ryan Spain, R-Peoria, argued the referendums were a distraction. 

“What you saw today was a phony attempt to solicit feedback from voters that was covering up the real intention to the Democrats’ bill upstairs, which is to eliminate competition in our elections,” Spain said.

As state law limits the number of questions on a statewide ballot to three, SB 2412 would also crowd out the possibility of any other citizen-initiated questions from making it to the ballot.

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, radio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.

STRAWBERRY STRUT INFORMATION WITH KRIS PLIKINGTON AND JOY SWEARINGEN            - T SHIRT DEADLINE FAST APPROACHING!

After 3 years, state poised to enforce law aiming to end lending discrimination

State-level Community Reinvestment Act finally was mired in rulemaking process

SPRINGFIELD – In 1977, then-President Jimmy Carter signed into law the Community Reinvestment Act, a federal law that sought to wipe away the last vestiges of racial discrimination and redlining in America’s home mortgage industry.

The idea was simple. By requiring lenders – primarily banks – to make credit available in all parts of the communities they served, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, the government could redirect the flow of private capital back into areas that had suffered from decades of systemic disinvestment.

Nearly half a century later, many people in Illinois argue the federal CRA has failed to live up to its promise. Whether that’s because the law was too narrow in scope, or because the lending business itself has changed dramatically over the decades, urban metropolitan areas like Chicago are still plagued with crumbling neighborhoods where few lenders are willing to invest.

“My area is the southeast side of Chicago, so if you want to talk about Woodlawn, Hyde Park, South Chicago, I mean, these are places where you have a significant amount of folks who are not white and upper-middle class. So yeah, there's been a problem,” Rep. Curtis Tarver, D-Chicago, said during a recent interview.

Tarver was among the sponsors of a 2021 bill that enacted a new state-level Community Reinvestment Act. Passed during a special lame duck session in January that year, it was part of the Legislative Black Caucus’ “four pillars” of social and economic reform measures that grew out of unrest that began sweeping across minority communities throughout the United States the previous summer.

“There were a few things that happened in 2020,” recalled Jane Doyle of the Chicago-based Woodstock Institute, one of the main backers of the bill. “Of course, the pandemic, the ways that the pandemic exposed racial disparities in our economy and our health care system, pretty much all parts of society. There was the murder of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter protests that ensued after that.”

But more specific to Chicago and the lending industry, Doyle said, was an investigative news story entitled “Where Banks Don’t Lend,” by public radio station WBEZ and the nonprofit news organization City Bureau. It was released June 3, 2020, less than two weeks after Floyd’s death.

“The sort of big summary data point that came out of that is that there was more mortgage capital invested in one majority-white community in Chicago than all majority-Black communities combined,” Doyle said.

It was against that backdrop that the Legislative Black Caucus pushed through the Illinois Community Reinvestment Act, a part of its “Economic Access, Equity, and Opportunity” pillar.

Unlike the federal law, which applies primarily to nationally chartered banks, the state law applies to state-chartered banks and savings banks, credit unions and non-bank mortgage lenders. 

It provides that every institution covered by the law has a “continuing and affirmative obligation to meet the financial services needs of the communities in which its offices, branches, and other facilities are maintained.” It also empowers the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to conduct examinations to measure each institution’s compliance with the law.

Much like the federal law, the state law does not impose specific mandates or establish any type of lending quotas on financial institutions. It does, however, require them to report on a periodic basis such things as the number and amount of mortgage loans and small business loans they make, the extent of their marketing activities to make community members aware of their services, and their participation in community development and redevelopment programs.

It also gives IDFPR authority to review those reports and assign rating scores to each institution, classifying their compliance record as either “outstanding,” “satisfactory,” “needs to improve,” or “substantial noncompliance.”

Gov. JB Pritzker signed the bill into law March 23, 2021, and the law was supposed to be in full effect by Jan. 1, 2022. 

That, however, proved to be more difficult than originally thought. The process of writing administrative rules to implement the law dragged on for nearly three years while regulators and industry officials negotiated the details of what information would have to be reported and how that information would be handled by the agency.

Those negotiations finally came to an end in April when the legislative Joint Committee on Administrative Rules, or JCAR, gave its blessing to the final rules, which now await publication in the Illinois Register before they are considered official.

“I knew it was hotly discussed and debated,” Sen. Chris Belt, D-Swansea, the bill’s chief Senate sponsor, said in an interview. “I'm not on JCAR so I don't know why it took so long. I know it was a lot of issues and nuances that they were discussing. I'm just glad that is over now.”

Belt is also the lead sponsor of a follow-up bill this year, Senate Bill 3235. It calls on the state’s Commission on Equity and Inclusion to conduct studies that will provide baseline information to identify geographies in Illinois where significant disparities exist in access to financial products and services, along with a listing of existing policies and practices that may have disparate impacts or discriminatory effects.

That bill passed out of the Senate April 18 and now awaits action in the House.

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, radio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.

Hancock County Economic Development- Sam Harnak Grant Updates

GRANT WINNERS TO BE ANNOUNCED FRIDAY AND THE UPCOMING TASTE OF HANCOCK COUNTY

WARSAW WELLNESS EXPO: HEALTH TAKES CENTER STAGE AT

BOTT COMMUNITY CENTER

Warsaw, IL – Over 150 participants attended the Warsaw Wellness Expo on Saturday, April 20. Memorial Hospital and the Warsaw Chamber of Commerce partnered to host the event at the Bott Community Center. The Expo offered a diverse range of screenings, demonstrations and activities tailored to all age groups and interests.

“The Warsaw Wellness Expo was not just an event; it was a celebration of health, community, and collaboration,” said Ashlyn Housewright, Executive Director Community Health & Wellness at Memorial Hospital. “By coming together, attendees learned, connected, and supported each other on their wellness journeys.”
Throughout the morning, attendees savored refreshments and learned about health services. The Warsaw Chamber of Commerce highlighted local businesses and attractions. Meanwhile, excitement buzzed around the prize drawings, offering participants the chance to win an iPad, a gift card and products from Memorial MedSpa, as well as a Skin Essence moisturizer.
Children were particularly delighted by the Kids Expo, where they engaged in demonstrations and activities, visited the Teddy Bear Clinic, enjoyed face painting, and bounced in the inflatable house.
“The event was a smashing success,” said Cassandra Grunewald, President, Warsaw Chamber of Commerce and Owner, RePete Candle & Coffee Bar. “Anything that brings our community out to celebrate together is important, but especially important when the focus is health. It's imperative that our citizens understand the resources available to them here in Hancock County.”
One of the highlights of the Expo was the opportunity for community members to provide
feedback on healthcare services through community surveys. Memorial Hospital invites Warsaw residents and Hancock County residents to fill out the surveys at the links below. 

Warsaw Community Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YB8F7XJ
Hancock County Residents: Community Health Needs Assessment:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5F7WD2S

Pictured: Local Warsaw resident Missy Finch (left) and Tonya Dooley, physical therapist (right).
Missy was the grand prize drawing winner of an iPad.

Warsaw Farmers Market information with Theresa Beeler and Jane Roskamp

WARSAW FARMERS MARKET STARTS UP MAY 8TH FROM 4PM-7PM AT RALSTON PARK WITH RAIN LOCATION BOTT CENTER

Warsaw Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting for Brittany Howe Photography

 April 29 2024

Sandburg hosting career fair May 2 featuring 8 Illinois agencies

 Carl Sandburg College will host a mini career fair from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. May 2 in the Student Center on its Galesburg campus for those interested in employment opportunities with Illinois government agencies.

Job seekers can explore and learn about careers with eight state agencies that will be on site:

• Department of Central Management Services
• Department of Children and Family Services
• Department of Corrections
• Department of Innovation and Technology
• Department of Transportation
• Illinois State Police
• Office of the State Treasurer
• Western Illinois Works

The event, sponsored by the Illinois Department of Employment Security, is free and open to the public. For more information, visit illinoisjoblink.com, or contact Tracy Engstrom, Sandburg’s coordinator of career development, at 309.341.5246 or tengstrom@sandburg.edu. 

Sandburg hosting career fair May 2 featuring 8 Illinois agencies

 Carl Sandburg College will host a mini career fair from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. May 2 in the Student Center on its Galesburg campus for those interested in employment opportunities with Illinois government agencies.

Job seekers can explore and learn about careers with eight state agencies that will be on site:

• Department of Central Management Services
• Department of Children and Family Services
• Department of Corrections
• Department of Innovation and Technology
• Department of Transportation
• Illinois State Police
• Office of the State Treasurer
• Western Illinois Works

The event, sponsored by the Illinois Department of Employment Security, is free and open to the public. For more information, visit illinoisjoblink.com, or contact Tracy Engstrom, Sandburg’s coordinator of career development, at 309.341.5246 or tengstrom@sandburg.edu. 

Sandburg hosting career fair May 2 featuring 8 Illinois agencies

 Carl Sandburg College will host a mini career fair from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. May 2 in the Student Center on its Galesburg campus for those interested in employment opportunities with Illinois government agencies.

Job seekers can explore and learn about careers with eight state agencies that will be on site:

• Department of Central Management Services
• Department of Children and Family Services
• Department of Corrections
• Department of Innovation and Technology
• Department of Transportation
• Illinois State Police
• Office of the State Treasurer
• Western Illinois Works

The event, sponsored by the Illinois Department of Employment Security, is free and open to the public. For more information, visit illinoisjoblink.com, or contact Tracy Engstrom, Sandburg’s coordinator of career development, at 309.341.5246 or tengstrom@sandburg.edu. 

Sandburg hosting career fair May 2 featuring 8 Illinois agencies

 Carl Sandburg College will host a mini career fair from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. May 2 in the Student Center on its Galesburg campus for those interested in employment opportunities with Illinois government agencies.

Job seekers can explore and learn about careers with eight state agencies that will be on site:

• Department of Central Management Services
• Department of Children and Family Services
• Department of Corrections
• Department of Innovation and Technology
• Department of Transportation
• Illinois State Police
• Office of the State Treasurer
• Western Illinois Works

The event, sponsored by the Illinois Department of Employment Security, is free and open to the public. For more information, visit illinoisjoblink.com, or contact Tracy Engstrom, Sandburg’s coordinator of career development, at 309.341.5246 or tengstrom@sandburg.edu. 

HANCOCK COUNTY HEALTH DEPTARTMENT- MELITA FINNEY- COTTAGE FOOD OPERATIONS RULES AND TAKING CARE IN YOUR FOOD HANDLING