Senator Wilcox Tours Businesses in Lake Villa, Cary
When I’m not in Springfield, I enjoy touring local businesses and talking with owners and employees. It is extremely helpful to engage with our local job creators to discuss their challenges, successes, and to find ways that I can help them grow and thrive.
Last week I spent two full days touring businesses in the 32nd District. I spent the day Tuesday in Lake Villa, and made stops at LovitIt Salon, Johnny D Tees, LLC, Harbor Brewing Company, and Timothy O’Toole’s Pub. As mentioned, we discussed the challenges and opportunities facing their businesses, and discussed ways that the State of Illinois can help them succeed. The event was organized in partnership with the Lake Villa, Lindenhurst, Round Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. I was joined for the Lake Villa tours and conversations by Chamber Executive Director Mike Auckerman, Chamber President Katie Burau, Lake Villa Mayor James McDonald, and Lake Villa Village Administrator Michael Strong. The collage of photos above highlight a few of the visits.
Then on Wednesday, I continued the business tour with four stops in Cary. In collaboration with the Cary-Grove Area Chamber of Commerce, I was able to tour and talk with leaders at Aptar, Plum Grove Inc., 750 Cucina Rustica, and the Cary Apothecary. Joining me on this informational tour were Chamber President and CEO Lynn Caccavallo, Cary Mayor Kownick, Village Administrator Erik Morimoto, and Assistant Village Administrator Nick Radcliffe. The photo collage below showcases a few of the stops on the Cary business tour.
Conversations Untapped Coming This Month to Cary and Antioch
I want to thank everyone who came out for my ICASH event last week in Fox Lake. The dedicated mobile team from the IL Treasurer’s office was able to provide service to 65-70 constituents during the four-hour event.
Next on the docket are two Conversations Untapped events during the month of July. New events are added regularly, so please visit the Events page of my website regularly to be kept up to date about events taking place near you.
- July 15: Conversations Untapped, Spirit Water Brewery, Distillery, and Taproom, 3300 Three Oaks Road, Cary, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- July 23: Conversations Untapped, Rivalry Ale House, 945 Main Street, Antioch, IL, 5:30PM – 7:00PM
- August 16: Document Shredding Event, Office of State Rep. Steve Reick, 1072 Lake Avenue, Woodstock, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- August 21: Barks & Brews Pet Adoption Event, Kishwaukee Brewing, 1900 Dillard Court, Woodstock, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- September 17: IPASS on Demand, Lake Villa District Library, 140 N. Munn Road, Lindenhurst, 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM
- October 14: Senior Resource Fair, Grand Oaks Recreation Center, 1401 IL-176, Crystal Lake, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Governor Pritzker Announces Intent to Seek Third Term
Last week, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker announced that he intends to run for a third term in office. Illinois does not place term limits on governors, and Pritzker will be the first to pursue a third term since the 1980s.
First elected in 2018, Pritzker has served as governor since 2019. Since that time, state spending has increased by nearly $15 billion, marking an approximate 40% rise over 6 ½ years. Under Governor Pritzker’s watch, Illinois currently has one of the highest tax burdens in the nation, one of the highest rates of unemployment in the Midwest and he has directed billions of dollars in funding for illegal immigrants.
IDNR, Fire Marshal Urge Fireworks Safety Ahead of July 4th
With the Fourth of July fast approaching, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the State Fire Marshal’s office are reminding Illinoisans to prioritize fireworks safety and follow state regulations.
Licensed professionals are the only ones authorized to handle display fireworks under the Illinois Explosives Act. The IDNR oversees licensing and storage certification for these explosives, while the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) regulates approved consumer fireworks that are only allowed in communities that permit them by ordinance.
Officials stressed the dangers associated with fireworks, citing 156 injuries and one death during the most recent reporting period. Mortars, roman candles, bottle rockets, and sparklers accounted for the majority of injuries.
Residents are encouraged to attend licensed public displays rather than attempt their own.
For emergencies or to report violations, contact IDNR at 217-782-9976 or OSFM at 217-785-0969.