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Illinois Secretary of State flagship building named in honor of Jesse White

Details: Published: Friday, July 25, 2025 11:04 AM

Legislation championed by State Senator Willie Preston becomes reality with ribbon cutting ceremony

CHICAGO – In a historic and heartfelt tribute, the Illinois Secretary of State’s flagship building has been officially named in honor of Jesse White, the longest-serving and most respected Secretary of State in Illinois and American history. The dedication ceremony and ribbon cutting took place today in Chicago, marking the culmination of legislation spearheaded by State Senator Willie Preston.

“It was my honor to carry this legislation through the Senate to ensure the legacy of Secretary Jesse White is forever etched in the fabric of Illinois,” said Preston. “His decades of service, unwavering integrity, and transformative leadership have shaped not only the Secretary of State’s office, but public service in this state and across the nation.”

Halpin and Johnson honor Congressman Evans’ memory and legacy with highway dedication

Details: Published: Thursday, July 24, 2025 12:15 PM

ROCK ISLAND – To honor the life and public service of former Congressman Lane Evans, State Senator Mike Halpin, alongside Representative Gregg Johnson, dedicated I-74 in the Quad Cities to his memory.

“Lane Evans was committed to this community and to this country,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “With this dedication, Illinois recognizes Evans’ service and accomplishments. Both as a mentor and a friend, Lane served as a great inspiration to me and showed what public service is all about: speaking your mind and fighting for folks in your community.”

Senate Joint Resolution 48 designates I-74 in the Quad Cities from 4^th Avenue to I-280 as the “Rep. Lane Evans Memorial Highway.” This designation pays honor and respect to former Congressman Evans’ service to his country.

Castro encourages organizations to apply for Illinois Pre-Apprenticeship Program

Details: Published: Monday, July 21, 2025 03:04 PM

ELGIN – State Senator Cristina Castro is urging community organizations, educational institutions, and industry groups to apply for grants from the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program to enhance workforce training and economic growth in Illinois communities.

“I’m thrilled to see the continued success of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “The funding provided through this program is critical to increasing career opportunities for Illinoisans and building up our state’s world-class workforce.”

This latest round of funding provides $25 million to support pre-apprenticeship programs that aim to increase diversity and create pathways for underrepresented groups in the construction industry, including women, veterans and people of color. The program offers comprehensive, tuition-free training and certifications, along with supportive services to help individuals gain entry to apprenticeships and ultimately secure stable, well-paying careers.

Koehler applauds the new Adient manufacturing facility, bringing jobs and investment to Normal

Details: Published: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:52 AM

NORMAL – State Senator Dave Koehler commended the announcement that Adient, a global automotive seating supplier, will open a new manufacturing facility in Normal, strengthening Central Illinois’ role in the electric vehicle industry and creating 75 new full-time jobs.

“This announcement is fantastic news for Central Illinois,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Adient’s decision to locate in Normal not only builds on our region’s growing role in the EV supply chain, but it also brings new, good-paying jobs to our community.”

Adient will invest over $8 million to establish the new facility, which will supply seating assemblies directly to Rivian, the prominent electric vehicle manufacturer headquartered in Normal. Adient plans to renovate an existing 85,000-square-foot warehouse near Rivian’s leading production site, enabling efficient supply chain integration.

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