McHenry Times

Senator Craig Wilcox recently hosted a Conversations Untapped event in Richmond at the Brathaus, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage in casual conversations with their State Senator. "I want to thank everyone who came out to my Conversations Untapped event last week," said Wilcox. The event allowed residents to discuss important issues and offer feedback on new or recently-passed legislation.

Wilcox has scheduled another Conversations Untapped event for Wednesday, October 2, in Spring Grove at the Grove Pub & Grill from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. He encouraged residents of Spring Grove and nearby areas to attend.

Additionally, Wilcox announced several upcoming events aimed at community outreach. A second IPASS on Demand event has been added due to local demand. Upcoming events include:

- October 15: Senior Health Fair at Crystal Lake Park District Grand Oaks Building from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

- October 28: IPASS on Demand at Algonquin Township Building from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

- November 4: IPASS on Demand at McHenry City Hall from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Information about these events is available on Senator Wilcox's website.

Changes to the Illinois Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) test took effect on September 1. These changes affect both CDL and non-CDL drivers with a J51 restriction. The parallel parking requirement has been removed, and the basic control skills portion now focuses on four steps: forward stop, straight-line backing, forward offset tracking, and reverse offset backing. Pre-trip testing requirements have reverted to pre-2015 rules.

The Illinois Council on Women and Girls is now accepting applications for the Illinois Girls Lead Program for students in grades 5 through 12. This program offers job shadowing and mentoring opportunities with women leaders in state government. Participants will engage in various activities based on their grade level, such as shadowing female leaders and writing reflections or research papers.

Applications are due by October 20th and can be submitted via the State Board of Education’s application page.

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is seeking nominations for the Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards until October 15th. These awards recognize outstanding educators, administrators, and school professionals who have made significant contributions to public and nonpublic elementary and secondary schools in Illinois.

Awards are presented in seven categories, including classroom teachers, early career educators, school administrators, student support personnel, educational service personnel, community volunteers, and teams. Awardees will be honored at an annual banquet in the spring.

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