McHenry Times

The deadline for the Valentines for Seniors program is approaching, with submissions due by Friday, February 7. The initiative aims to deliver valentines to seniors in assisted living centers and nursing homes within the 32nd District. Cards can be mailed or dropped off at Senator Craig Wilcox's district office in Woodstock.

In another community event, Woodstock Willie predicted an early spring during the annual Groundhog Days celebration. This year's festivities featured actor Stephen Tobolowsky and drew visitors from various regions.

Senator Wilcox is co-sponsoring Senate Bill 1313, which mandates collaboration between state law enforcement and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to deport undocumented individuals convicted of serious offenses. The bill challenges Governor J.B. Pritzker’s public safety policies.

Additionally, Senator Wilcox supports Senate Bill 98, which requires expulsion for students guilty of sexual assault at schools or related events. The Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault endorses this legislation.

A recent report ranks Illinois 38th nationally for education freedom, criticizing the end of the Invest in Kids program while praising its homeschooling environment. Senator Wilcox advocates for a new initiative to offer school choice to students in failing schools.

Illinois faces economic challenges with a high unemployment rate of 5.2% as of December, despite adding jobs in certain sectors in 2024. The state's job growth lags behind national averages due to high taxes and a challenging business environment.