Joyce measure to increase fire prevention education among children clears Senate

SPRINGFIELD – A measure led by State Senator Patrick Joyce that would bring more fire prevention education to children across the state passed the Senate Thursday.

“Many accidental fires can be prevented, which is why it’s important our youth have knowledge about fire prevention,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “With proper education from experts, we can provide children the tools they need to make responsible decisions.”

Joyce’s legislation would create positions of certified youth firesetter interventionists in the Division of Arson Investigation within the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

These positions would help local authorities stress the importance of fire safety. They would conduct firesetter interventions and would work closely with families, schools and other organizations to provide education, support and guidance to children.

”Fire education can save lives, so it’s crucial children know what to do in emergency situations,” said Joyce. “By providing targeted intervention and prevention strategies, we can help protect public safety and prevent future incidents of firesetting behavior in our communities.”

House Bill 2372 passed the Senate.

Illinois General Assembly marks May 3 as Bacon Day

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Patrick Joyce supported a resolution Wednesday that declares May 3 as Bacon Day in Illinois.

“I’m very excited about Bacon Day – I’m a farmer and a big supporter of our pork producers,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “We’re proud to celebrate Bacon Day and to recognize the impact of the pork industry in Illinois.”

This measure is backed by the Illinois Pork Producers Association. Illinois falls fourth in ranks for pork production in the United States and contributes over $13.8 billion to Illinois’ economy.

National Bacon Day is Dec. 30 and International Bacon Day is Sept. 2.

“The hardworking hog farmers who raise this high-quality product deserves our support,” said State Senator Tom Bennett (R-Gibson City), who introduced the Resolution. “Whether it’s plain or applewood-smoked, whether store-bought or artisan-made, bacon is a meat for any meal.”

This measure passed the Senate Wednesday.

Joyce announces tourism marketing grant for Kankakee County Convention and Visitors Bureau

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KANKAKEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce joined the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity in announcing a $16,000 grant to boost local tourism efforts and attract visitors to the area.

“Programs like the Illinois Travel and Tourism grants  will continue to help the 40^th District develop new tourist experiences and enhance existing facilities and activities,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “Tourism sites and attractions have the opportunity to bring economic growth to the area, which is beneficial for all involved.”

Through the Illinois Travel and Tourism Grant Program, a total of $2.9 million is being awarded to 51 grantees to support local tourism promotional efforts. This program provides funding for promotional efforts by local governments, municipalities, non-profits and local promotional groups such as Illinois' Certified Convention and Visitor Bureaus, with the goal of attracting visitors to destinations, attractions, and events throughout Illinois.

The Kankakee County Convention and Visitors Bureau is set to receive a $16,527 grant from the program, which is funded by a federal Economic Development Administration grant.

“This grant will help maximize the distribution of our 2023 Visitor Guide. The design, production and distribution of the guide is imperative to the growth of overnight visitors and, in turn, economic growth in Kankakee County,” said Nicole Gavin, Executive Director of Visit Kankakee. “Our all-inclusive guide spans 22 communities and we diligently work to include all visitor-centric destinations, overnight accommodations, outdoor and indoor activities and experiences, museums, architecture, theatrical and musical performances and events, festivals, restaurants, breweries, wine bars, boutiques, antique shops, and everything in between that makes Kankakee County unique.”

To view a full list of Illinois Travel and Tourism Grant Program recipients, click here.

Joyce encourages households to utilize home improvement grants

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• Home Improvement

KANKAKEE- Residents in need across the district State Senator Patrick Joyce represents now have an opportunity to receive financial assistance for necessary home improvement projects.

“This assistance is given at no cost to homeowners in need of critical repairs to make their homes safe and accessible,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This is a great investment in underserved communities and will help people stay in their homes and communities.”

The Home Repair and Accessibility Programs designed to support health, safety, accessibility and energy efficient repairs to qualifying households. HRAP will provide $15.3 million in funds across the state to cover these necessary repairs through five-year, forgivable loans. The funding is designed to serve underfunded communities and ensure residents are able to stay in their homes.

Areas in the 40^th District that will receive funding include:

• Chicago Heights - $400,000
• Kankakee - $500,000
• Park Forest - $400,000

“There are people who need repairs or additions to their homes such as ramps, new roofs, or updates to plumbing and electrical issues, but cost can be an issue,” said Joyce. “Everyone should have access to the help they need to stay in their community.”

Contact information for each organization is available on IHDA’s website at https://www.ihda.org/my-community/revitalization-programs/.