* IDPH…

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today endorsed the recommendation by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for the newly FDA-approved COVID-19 shots for everyone over the age of 6 months. The federal agencies have given the green light for updated mRNA vaccines developed by Moderna and Pfizer that target the currently circulating strains of the COVID-19 virus.

Heading into the fall, IDPH is closely monitoring data on COVID-19 as well as other respiratory viruses including flu and RSV. The federal guidance comes as data indicates an uptick in COVID-19 hospitalizations in Illinois and the nation, with a seven percent increase statewide in the week ending September 2, the most recent period for which data is available. There are currently 12 Illinois counties at a medium level for COVID-19 hospitalizations according to the CDC national dashboard, meaning they exceed ten new cases per 100,000 population in the last week.

* When this bill was proposed in 2010, I repeatedly called it the worst bill ever. It allows local governments to use state sales tax money for local developments. Not a fan. Comptroller Mendoza is a fan and here’s her press release…

I’m so happy the city of Marion has approved the state’s first STAR Bonds project, which will bring welcome economic investment, jobs, new businesses, entertainment, fun and great opportunities to Southern Illinois.

I was very proud to work on the original legislation that former State Rep. John Bradley passed in 2010. Speaking on the House floor in favor of the bill, I outlined my language about Angel Investment Tax Credits that formed part of the Innovation Development and Economy Act, which paved the way for this district. That same year, Marion created its STAR Bonds District.

My Deputy Director of Outreach and Community Affairs, Josh Downs, read my letter of support for this project before the vote at last night’s Marion City Council meeting.

The Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) Bonds are paid for by future sales taxes collected by businesses that locate in the district.

The new businesses anticipated at Marion’s Oasis Outdoors development include sports complexes, expanded golf and pickleball complexes, go-karts, virtual reality, bowling alleys, climbing walls, arcades, restaurants, a redevelopment of the mall to showcase one of the world’s largest RV dealerships, and so much more.

This project will be an economic driver for Southern Illinois and will attract significant out-of-state tourism dollars.

Congratulations to developers Rodney Cabaness; Shad Zimbro, Millennium Destination Development LLC, Marion Mayor Mike Absher and everyone else who is working on this innovative project.

https://thesouthern.com/news/local/communities/marion/marion-approves-first-star-bond-project-during-a-special-council-meeting/article_575e41a4-51dc-11ee-9194-d739486b68fd.html

* Leader Curran…

Illinois Senate Republican Leader John Curran (R-Downers Grove) released the following statement on Saving Illinois Tax Credit Scholarships

“All Illinois children, regardless of their parents’ bank accounts or connections, deserve access to the best quality education possible to fit their individual needs. This access has been increased for over 9,000 lower-income families in Illinois through private donations in the Invest in Kids Scholarship program. The innocent children receiving these life-changing scholarships, and the thousands more on the waitlist, should not be caught in the middle of political or ideological fights, but instead should be given the certainty of a permanent program so they can continue to excel in their family’s school of choice. The Senate Republicans are united in our commitment to making permanent the Invest in Kids program this coming Veto Session, and will continue to prioritize empowering lower income parents to make the best educational choices for their children.”

* Press release…

Skokie, IL – The Women’s Board (WB) of the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center (IHMEC) raised more than $350,000 at its annual signature Soirée. More than 400 guests came together on Sept. 7th at Bryn Mawr Country Club to support the Museum’s mission to preserve the stories of Holocaust Survivors and continue their legacy into the future.

“We were thrilled to have everyone come together for such a wonderful night,” said Sue Spinello, Women’s Board co-president. “We appreciate everyone’s support of the Soirée as these critical funds will go a long way in helping the Museum achieve its mission,” said Leslie Schaffel, co-president. […]

“With the rise of antisemitism and other hate crimes, connecting the lessons of the Holocaust to present day continues to be as urgent as ever,” said Bernard Cherkasov, Museum CEO. “While our primary focus is on education and awareness, social events such as the Soirée are another way to work toward our mission.” […]

The Soirée raises funds to support the Museum’s mission to combat hatred, prejudice, and indifference, and to inspire visitors to become Upstanders who speak out for what’s right – turning powerful lessons of history into positive actions today. The WB specifically earmarked funds from this event to support upcoming special exhibitions, field trips to the Museum (virtual and in-person) for students in under-served communities, and Law Enforcement Action and Democracy (LEAD) Training.

* Women Employed press release…

Women Employed (WE) today announced it was named to the Crain’s Chicago Business 2023 list of Best Places to Work. For 50 years, Women Employed has relentlessly pursued equity for women in the workforce, from shaping policy change, expanding access to educational opportunities, to advocating for fair and inclusive workplaces so more women, families, and communities can thrive.

Ranked 22 out of 100 employers, WE was recognized in the top 25% for its deep commitment to equity that starts in its own workplace. As a small non-profit organization of 26 staff members, WE provides top-tier benefits, prioritizes fairness and inclusivity, and is highly responsive to staff needs. To ensure they are aligned with what they advocate for, WE offers family-friendly and employee-centered benefits such as generous sick time, paid leave, vacation, and health insurance, plus hybrid work and flexible scheduling options, allowing staff to manage responsibilities inside and outside of work. The leadership team holds itself accountable for organizational culture, staff development and nurturing and supporting the overall well-being of staff.

“We couldn’t authentically pursue equity for women in the workforce without ensuring equity, inclusivity, support, and flexibility in our own workplace,” said Cherita Ellens, President and CEO of Women Employed. “We believe our staff members deserve the best working environment to achieve success for themselves and our mission. We are thrilled to be recognized alongside so many other notable organizations that are doing right by their workers.”

* Oppo dump!..

On September 13, Eileen O’Neill Burke is set to hold a “Women Lawyers” fundraiser at the law offices of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard.

The first host listed on the invitation is Kristin Barnette – wife of disgraced and racist former Chicago Police Chief Garry McCarthy. Barnette donated a total of $23,120 to her husband’s mayoral campaign. Several other hosts of Burke’s upcoming fundraiser were also supporters of McCarthy’s Rudy Giuliani-supported mayoral run.

In total, the hosts of this event gave $30,600 to McCarthy’s Mayoral run. In addition to his wife, McCarthy received donations from:

• Sarah King - $500: Clifford Law Partner Sarah King gave $500 to McCarthy’s mayoral bid.

• Beth McCormack - $250: Beerman Partner Beth McCormack gave $250 to McCarthy’s mayoral bid.

• Clare McWilliams - $250: Judge Clare McWilliams gave $250 to McCarthy’s mayoral campaign.

• Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard - $2,500: The law firm where the fundraiser will take place gave $2,500 to McCarthy’s mayoral run.

• Patrick Salvi - $2,000: The firm is chaired by Patrick Salvi who gave $2,000 to McCarthy’s mayoral bid.

• Patrick Salvi Jr. - $2,000: The firm’s Chicago Managing Partner Patrick Salvi Jr. also gave $2,000 to McCarthy’s mayoral bid.

* Isabel’s roundup…

* Daily Herald | Witness says ex-DCFS workers were ‘ultimately responsible’ for AJ’s safety: Acosta, 57, of Woodstock, and Polovin, 51, of Island Lake, each are charged with two counts of endangering the life of a child and health of a minor and one count of reckless conduct related to their handling of the child’s case. Defense attorneys have argued the child welfare agency’s Woodstock field office, from which AJ’s case was handled, was “overwhelmingly overworked and understaffed.” […] To each question, Ruzicka said neither Acosta nor Polovin adhered to training and did what was required.

* Shaw Local | Grundy County chairman Chris Balkema announces candidacy for 53rd District senate seat: The district includes Grundy, Bureau, Ford, Iroquois, La Salle, Livingston, Marshall, McLean, Peoria, Putnam, Tazewell, Will and Woodford counties. During Balkema’s tenure, he said he defended Grundy County residents against gun regulations and executive orders during the COVID-19 pandemic. He said his firm stance ensured the rights of Grundy County residents were never compromised.

* Crain’s | White Sox attendance too low for over a decade for team to owe state fees: The management agreement between the ISFA and the White Sox requires the team to pay a base rent per season, plus net ticket fees if paid attendance exceeds 1.93 million tickets (excluding “comp” tickets, which are given away to sponsors).

* Crain’s | White Sox sued over alleged discriminatory ticket-sales practices: The lawsuit, filed today on behalf of Sox fans Ralph Yaniz and Douglas McCormick, alleges that the White Sox failed to offer equal benefits to people with disabilities, required under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, by refusing to sell accessible-seat season tickets on its website.

* WBEZ | Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson vows he won’t raise property taxes to close $538 million budget gap: The gap is fueled in part by the ongoing effort to support migrants being sent to the city, as well as rising personnel costs and pension payments, the budget forecast released Wednesday reads. At least $149 million of the shortfall is driven by support for new arrivals. But in a news release, Johnson vowed to follow through on a campaign promise to produce a budget that “holds the line on not raising the base property tax levy.”

* WCIA | ADM East plant evacuated again days after explosion: An ADM spokesperson said that an employee noticed smoke during a walk-through of the plant. Out of an abundance of caution, the spokesperson said the immediate area was evacuated and the fire department was called for support. The area was deemed safe by 11 a.m. and employees are allowed to reenter the area. The spokesperson added that ADM is taking additional precautions to ensure the safety of the area and to inform employees about the issue and resolution.

* WCIA | Fourth ADM worker released from hospital after explosion: “As we continue the process to assess the damage to our processing complex in Decatur and begin the process to restore operations, our priority remains offering to support our four injured colleagues who remain in the hospital as well as their families,” ADM officials posted to their website Tuesday night. “One colleague has been released. We are also providing counseling resources to colleagues on-site.”

* SJ-R | More than 700 IEMA workers will move to White Oaks Mall; here’s an update on construction: The mall project is in the second construction phase with CDB turning much of the former retail space into an office for more than 700 workers. Upgrades to electrical, HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, and security systems are underway along with installation of new flooring, lighting, windows, restrooms, and sewer. But workers also have had to navigate a series of change orders – nearly $6 million worth – caused by the aging condition of the building.

* Chalkbeat | Schools face a funding cliff. How bad will the fall be?: Some advocates had hoped that even more federal dollars would be on the way. For instance, the Los Angeles teachers union had sought to make federal relief permanent. But this is not going to happen. The recent deal that President Joe Biden struck with Congressional Republicans limits new federal spending on education for the next couple years.

* BND | Is it legal to hang items from your rearview mirror in Illinois? The law changes in 2024: On Jan. 1, 2024, Illinois police officers will no longer be allowed to lawfully stop or search vehicles solely because they have something hanging from their rearview mirror, though it will still be considered a violation if the item materially obstructs the motorist’s view.

* The Pantagraph | Illinois State University hires firm for presidential search: A statement Wednesday from ISU said Parker Executive Search was selected as the hiring and consulting firm to assist the search, and will be reimbursed $110,000, plus expenses. University leaders are seeking a replacement for former President Terri Goss Kinzy, who abruptly resigned in February after less than two years on the job. The board and Kinzy, the university’s first female president, agreed not to comment beyond an initial statement that said she would “pursue other opportunities.”

* Tribune | UAW may strike at small number of factories if it can’t reach deals with automakers: At the Tuesday meeting, Fain didn’t say whether the union would target vehicle assembly plants or component factories, one of the people said. Strikes at parts plants could force production halts at multiple assembly factories. He also didn’t say how many workers would walk off their jobs.

* Daily Herald | Electrifying 30% of heavy-duty vehicles could save hundreds of lives, billions of dollars: If the region surrounding Chicago took 30% of its heavy-duty vehicles and made them electric, 610 lives and $5.8 billion would be saved each year, according to a new study out of Northwestern University.

* Block Club | Southwest Siders With Kias, Hyundais Can Get A Free Steering Wheel Lock Next Month: Vehicles must be registered to owners in the 8th District, which includes parts of West Lawn, Chicago Lawn, Ashburn, Midway, Gage Park and Archer Heights. […] Over 7,000 Kias and Hyundais were stolen from Chicagoans in 2022, prompting Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul to demand a federal recall of the vehicles. Raoul was one of several officials across the country to sign a letter asking the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to take action.

* County approves nearly $750,000 in ARPA funding: The Kankakee County Board approved three requests for American Rescue Plan Act funds at its meeting on Tuesday, providing nearly $750,000 to the Helen Wheeler Center, a circuit court remodel and for the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Department’s old jail.

* Shaw Local | Woman charged with falsely reporting a bomb threat at Geneva High: A Geneva woman has been charged with making a false report of a bomb threat at Geneva High School. Terry L. Thomas, 54, of the 600 block of Willow Lane, is also charged with aggravated battery to a peace officer, aggravated assault and resisting a peace officer.

* SJ-R | Springfield council to consider new Lincoln Library director; Yazell returns to former job: With no discussion at Tuesday’s committee of the whole meeting, the council moved Gwendolyn Harrison’s appointment as Lincoln Library’s director to the full city council’s agenda on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Val Yazell, the interim director of the Office for Planning and Economic Development, will move back to permanent director pending council approval.

* Block Club Chicago | South Loop Neighbors Want To Block Data Center Expansion Near McCormick Place: The $500 million expansion would include a new, 565,069-square-foot, 13-story building with seven data center suites between the third and ninth floors with a bridge connecting the new building with the existing one. A chiller plant would be installed on the 10th floor, with additional cooling towers on the roof.

* Daily Herald | Why some people complained about pot-friendly music festival in Mundelein: Christine Spisla was the first person who spoke about the festival during the public comment portion of the meeting. She said the performances rattled her windows, shook the floors and made her walls vibrate. In response, Village Administrator Eric Guenther said sound levels sporadically were checked by police officers during both days of the festival, and the decibel outputs never reached unacceptable levels.

* Journal Star | Lead water line replacement is ramping up in Peoria: On Tuesday, Illinois American Water updated the Peoria City Council on where it stands in that process and is asking Peorians to help its census by self-reporting lead water pipes in their homes. By April 2024, Illinois American Water must have an inventory submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency of where lead water lines still exist in Peoria, the company told the council.

* WGLT | State to fund Illinois State University area traffic safety study: Normal Public Works Director Ryan Otto said the cost of the study to begin next year will be $450,000. “It will start with a larger overall review of crash reports, some surveys of students and community members, to try to identify points of conflict people see on the street. We’ll do a deep dive into geometrics, traffic counts, and things like that in specific areas,” said Otto.

* Daily Herald | Done deal: Texas data center firm closes on deal for Sears campus in Hoffman Estates: “We are very pleased to welcome Compass Datacenters to Hoffman Estates,” Hoffman Estates Mayor Bill McLeod said in a statement. “The redevelopment of the former Sears headquarters into a data center campus begins a new chapter for this high-profile property and continues the technology diversification of our tax base. Although still preliminary, the investment by Compass will be in the billions of dollars and will have positive effects for our community for years to come.”

* Block Club Chicago | Englewood’s Only Sit-Down Restaurant Has Been Closed For Years. City College Plans To Bring It Back To Life: Kennedy-King received a historic $5 million grant from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott in 2021. About $500,000 of that lump sum will go towards refreshing the restaurant, said Jewel Mideau, executive dean at the college’s Washburne Culinary and Hospitality Institute.

* AP | The iPhone 12 emits too much radiation and Apple must take it off the market, French agency says: French regulators ordered Apple to stop selling the iPhone 12, saying it emits electromagnetic radiation levels that are above European Union standards for exposure. The company disputed the findings and said the device complies with regulations.

* Daily Beast | And Now Gannett Wants a Beyoncé Reporter to Join Its Taylor Swift Reporter: The headline-making job listings come as Gannett, the largest U.S. newspaper chain, has gone through a series of layoffs over the last two years that have affected dozens of its local newsrooms, most recently shedding six percent of its news division in December. A Gannett spokesperson wrote to The Daily Beast that “we have hired 260 journalists and have more than 100 more open roles which are actively being recruited for as we grow our audience.”

* BND | Metro-east golfer shoots holes-in-one both left-handed and right-handed, a very rare feat: One day in 2021, for reasons he cannot explain, he found he could no longer grip a golf club from his natural left side. “All I know is one day I woke up and couldn’t hit the ball left-handed,” Martintoni said. “ I got up and we were playing and the next day I couldn’t hold the clubs and I couldn’t hit them anymore, so I struggled with that for a couple of months.”