McHenry Times

Last week, during the National Nurses Appreciation Week, Senator Craig Wilcox visited Northwestern Hospital McHenry to express his gratitude towards the night shift nurses. He said, "Nurses are frontline healthcare heroes who work long hours to help keep us healthy. It was an absolute pleasure to thank them personally during Nurses Appreciation Week."

The Illinois Senate has recently advanced legislation that formally recognizes the United States Space Force as an official branch of the United States Armed Forces. House Bill 5640 aims to change state law so that it includes the Space Force wherever the Armed Forces are mentioned. The bill passed unanimously out of the Senate Veteran Affairs Committee on May 2 and is now advancing to the Senate floor for further action.

Senator Wilcox also announced winners of his first annual “My Inspirational Teacher” Essay Contest. Middle School/Junior High School students were invited to submit a 250-500-word essay about a teacher who had significantly impacted their educational journey. The winning essays were written by Ryleigh Tadelman, Max Seymour, and Evan Mann from Bernotas Middle School and Matthews Middle School respectively.

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) is providing high school students with valuable resources to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). ISAC's mission is to ensure every student is aware of free assistance available for financial aid and college planning.

May marks Law Enforcement Appreciation Month in Illinois. In observance of this, the Illinois State Police and other law enforcement agencies across the state are honoring officers' dedication and sacrifices. This annual month of recognition was created in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, current and former officers, and their families.