•April 24, 2024•

By Cole Longcor

Capitol News Illinois

An Illinois House committee advanced a measure that would end the state’s subminimum wage for tipped workers amid bipartisan opposition this week, but the bill’s sponsor said she’d seek further compromise before presenting it for a vote. 

Current Illinois law allows employers to pay their tipped workers 60 percent of the state’s minimum wage. That amounts to $8.40 hourly, compared to the minimum wage of $14 per hour. If their wages plus tips do not equal minimum wage, the employer must make up the difference. However, advocates say, employers don’t always do that.

House Bill 5345, sponsored by Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, D-Cicero, would mandate that tipped workers are paid at least minimum wage, not including tips. She said the bill will eliminate “subminimum wage, not tips.”  Read More

•April 24, 2024•

By Cheri Burcham

Extension Educator, 

University of Illinois Extension  

Here is a great article I would like to share written by Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist Saima Hasnin. Saima says: Ever wonder why colorful vegetables are so important? Not only are they bursting with flavor, but they are also the most beneficial ones for keeping our bodies healthy and strong. They are rich in carotenoids and antioxidants, important for preventing different types of cancer. But let’s face it, getting young children to eat vegetables can be challenging. We are here to guide early childcare educators and parents of young children with some tried-and-true tips that are as fun as they are effective.   Read More

•April 24, 2024•

Slow-cooked foods seem tailor-made when the mercury is low. Stews, soups and casseroles can simmer and gain great flavor through slow-cooking methods. But slow cooker appliances don’t need to be stored away when spring flowers start to bud. In fact, this method of cooking can bridge the gap between cold weather cuisine and the grilled and chilled fare of summer days to come. Read More