News Progress

•July 6, 2022• The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) is sharing tips to beat the heat because July is Extreme Heat Safety Month. “We’ve already had 100 °+ temperatures for several days in June, and it’s clear that extreme heat is dangerous,” said IEMA Deputy Director Scott Swinford. “Take precautions and reduce your risk to avoid heat exhaustion by staying cool and well hydrated.” High temperatures paired with significant humidity can lead to increased risks of heat cramps, heat illness, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion. Take breaks in the shade Drink plenty of water … Read More

•July 6, 2022• The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is increasing the financial support provided to foster parents, caregivers and older youth in care to help offset the recent increases in cost of living expenses experienced by families throughout the state. DCFS had already planned on providing these families and youth a 3 percent cost of living adjustment in the new fiscal year. The new, additional support of $14.6 million is supported by a decrease in youth coming into DCFS care and reuniting youth with their biological families. “Foster parents and foster youth deserve our state’s investment,” … Read More

•July 6, 2022• Lake Land College will host a court reporting First Steps class on July 19 from 6-9 p.m. in Webb Hall, room 081. The class is a free three-hour introductory course and is open to anyone interested in learning about the court reporting profession. Attendees will learn about the career opportunities available to court reporters, as well as have the opportunity to gain experience on the industry-standard steno machine. The class will also allow attendees to ask questions and explore the possibility of pursuing a career in court reporting. “One-third of our court reporters are already eligible for … Read More

•July 6, 2022• Governor JB Pritzker signed SB3792 into law, amending the code of multiple acts and agencies to replace references to high school equivalency certificates to State of Illinois High School Diplomas. This change recognizes the equal value of a State of Illinois High School Diploma and will aid Illinois graduates in establishing reciprocity with educational requirements in other states. “Graduates of Illinois schools should never have to start their post-secondary career or schooling at a disadvantage,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This legislation reflects the high standards to which we hold our high school students and protects graduates from … Read More