PARK FOREST— To encourage young people to continue learning this summer, State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is encouraging kids to participate in his Summer Book Club for children and young people who live in the 40th State Senate District.

“The purpose of this reading club is to inspire our youth to read during the summer when school is out,” Joyce said. “This book club also offers a completion incentive, giving kids something to work toward during the summer months.”

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form and return the form to Joyce’s office by Aug. 11. Participants will receive a gift card and certificate from Senator Joyce. 

“This Summer Book Club makes reading fun and promotes lifelong learning,” Joyce said. “I am encouraging young readers to set aside 10-15 minutes a day to read and make it a part of their summer routine.”

To receive a book club form, visit SenatorPatrickJoyce.com to download and print the form, or call Joyce’s office at 708-756-0882 to request a copy by mail.

Joyce urges interested residents to call his office with any additional questions.

KANKAKEE – A measure sponsored by State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) to prevent children’s lemonade stands from being shut down for not having a permit was signed into law Friday by Gov. JB Pritzker. 

This new law was inspired by 12-year-old Hayli Martinez, whose lemonade stand in Kankakee was flagged by local officials and shut down.

“Opening a lemonade stand can teach kids about entrepreneurship and responsibility, so it’s really a great opportunity for them to learn while making some extra money,” Joyce said. “This new law will allow our young entrepreneurs to dream big without any hurdles.”

Under this measure, the Illinois Department of Public Health, a local health department or public health district cannot regulate the sale of lemonade or nonalcoholic drinks or mixed beverages by a person under age 16. The law also prevents authorities from requiring a permit for children to sell lemonade on private properties or in a public park.

Senate Bill 119 was signed into law on Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2022.

BOURBONNAIS – State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) invites residents to ask questions and get assistance with state matters at his Coffee, Conversation and Constituent Services event on Saturday, July 31 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Starbucks, located at 532 Main St. NW in Bourbonnais.

“This is a great opportunity for the residents of Bourbonnais and surrounding communities to enjoy a cup of coffee while having a conversation about what’s happening in state government, or to simply bring an issue to my attention,” Joyce said. “I look forward to having a casual conversation with those who are available to join me.”

Community members are welcome to stop by Starbucks to work with the senator’s staff and receive assistance with different services. Attendees can receive help with FOID cards applications, unemployment and much more.

With questions or for additional information, contact Joyce’s office at 708-756-0882 or visit SenatorPatrickJoyce.com.

SOUTH WILMINGTON – Motorists who have been unable to visit a driver services facility to renew their driver’s licenses and purchase vehicle stickers will be able to attend a free mobile unit event, sponsored by State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) in partnership with the secretary of state’s office.

“The mobile unit makes it easier for folks to receive necessary services without waiting for long periods of time outside a driver services facility,” Joyce said. “I encourage anyone in need of a safe and convenient way to renew and pay fees to attend this upcoming event.”