News Progress

•June 14, 2023•
Governor JB Pritzker was joined by Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, advocates, and lawmakers today at the Harold Washington Library to sign legislation outlawing book bans in Illinois. This nation-leading legislation comes in the wake of a nationwide rise in extremists targeting literature, libraries, and books in an effort to censor the material students need to thrive in the classroom. Targeted books cover a wide range of categories and predominantly consists of stories by and about People of Color and the LGBTQ+ community. Read More

•June 14, 2023•
Cataracts effect more than 24 million people over the age of 40 in the United States according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital is addressing the growing need for improved eye care by establishing advanced ophthalmological surgical services here in Decatur.
St. Mary’s Hospital is the first in the region to use the LenSx® Laser featuring ASCEND Technology to perform cataract surgeries. This system uses advanced laser technology for enhanced precision and increased efficiency.
“A cataract is something we can take care of surgically as soon as it starts to bother you in your daily life,” said Dr. Kenneth Farr, ophthalmological surgeon. “Once we complete the surgery, your cataracts are gone for good.” Read More

•June 14, 2023•
Illinois dairy farmers are committed to building up communities experiencing food insecurity. Recognizing the hardships many families are facing, the Illinois Milk Producers Association (IMPA) donated nearly 10,000 pounds of milk, including lactose-free, between two local food banks.
“We know that many families are struggling with food insecurity amid rising prices at the grocery store,” said Don Mackinson, IMPA president. “Everyone deserves access to fresh, nutritious food, which is why Illinois dairy farmers wanted to find a new way to support our communities.” Read More

•June 14, 2023•
The HSHS Good Shepherd Foundation will host a golf outing at Eagle Creek Golf Course in Findlay on Friday, June 23. All proceeds from the outing will be used to assist Good Shepherd Hospital in the purchase of 3D mammography equipment. Read More

•June 14, 2023•
June is Pet Preparedness Month and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security reminds you that a backpack with a few pet preparedness items could make all the difference with safety and comfort in a disaster for your favorite family pets.
“During Pet Preparedness Month, I challenge families to gather pet preparedness items,” said Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau. “Preparing now will greatly benefit your pets especially during a flood, tornado, or other severe weather.” Read More