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The Plan to “Train Up” for Grid Modernization
Tuesday, May 24, 2011 - Posted by Advertising Department [The following is a paid advertisement.] Modernizing Illinois’ electric grid will require thousands of workers. That’s why HB 14 directs ComEd to invest $10 million in skills training centers. The centers will be a key part of a three-year program for overhead linemen, underground workers and substation mechanics that will include classroom work, pole-climbing and setting, wire stringing, cable splicing and high voltage transformer installation training. By the end of 2010, ComEd expects to build a LEED-certified facility in Chicago and a smaller facility in Rockford to train new and current employees. In addition to preparing ComEd’s work force for the future, the training program will create jobs at time when they are needed most. With a new Mobile Qualification Center that travels to different locations, ComEd would offer opportunities for members of the community to apply and train for well-paying jobs. An open enrollment would be held and candidates would undertake a seven-day period of preparation and qualification testing. Building a 21st century grid for Illinois is important work. The training program outlined in HB 14 is part of ComEd’s commitment to get the job done right.
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Most Illinois Gamblers Prefer Smokefree Casinos
Monday, May 23, 2011 - Posted by Advertising Department [The following is a paid advertisement.] A survey of Illinois’ casino gamblers by the Center for Policy Analysis (CFPA) at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth finds that a large majority of this state’s casino gamblers either prefer casinos where smoking is prohibited on the gaming floor or it does not matter to them. According to the random sample poll, conducted from April 27 to May 9, 2011, 45% of respondents who had visited a casino in the last twelve months say they are more likely to visit a casino where smoking is prohibited on the gaming floor. 31% say it doesn’t matter. Only 24% say they are less likely to visit a casino where smoking is prohibited. Like the rest of us, gamblers are cutting back mainly for economic reasons: 40% cite the increased cost of gasoline and 35% cite the increased cost of living, while others blame loss of income (16%), falling behind on bills (15%), job loss (12%), and declining home values(11%). Will allowing smoking in casinos increase state revenues? Not really! In fact, bringing back smoking could set Illinois’ casinos further behind: 36% of casino gamblers who smoke report that they too either prefer a smoking prohibition on the gaming floor or say it doesn’t matter. Think smoking and gambling go together? Actually, smokers do not constitute a disproportionate percentage of casino gamblers in comparison to the state’s general adult population. Want a real, politically viable revenue option? Raise the cigarette tax! For more information please visit www.smokefreeillinois.com.
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