Haas Resolution Declares September as River Clean Up Month in Illinois
A resolution introduced by State Rep. Jackie Haas to declare September as River Clean Up Month in Illinois was adopted in the House of Representatives. House Resolution 169 is a bipartisan resolution to encourage chambers of commerce, visitors’ bureaus, and other area groups to coordinate local cleanup activities along portions of rivers and waterways in their area.
“Illinois rivers are intrinsic to our ecosystems and our state culture,” said Rep. Haas. “However, when trash is disposed of in our beautiful waterways, it damages the visual aesthetic and biological qualities of these critical bodies of water. I am proud to have bipartisan support on this resolution to promote citizen participation in keeping our communities and natural habitats clean and healthy.”
HR 169 declares September as River Clean Up Month because water levels are usually low, temperatures are warm, and schools are in session. This presents an educational opportunity to involve area youth and highlight the importance of clean rivers and waterways.
“Whether you’re in a church group, community organization, or leading Scout troops, everyone can chip in to safely organize river clean ups in their communities,” Rep. Haas continued. “Knowing how important the Kankakee River is to the 79th District, we can extend this across Illinois and connect as a state in preserving our phenomenal natural resources.”
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, mismanaged trash that escapes into waterways can affect water quality, endanger plants and animals, and pollute outdoor spaces. Scientists also found at least 558 species are reported to have ingested or become entangled in plastic waste. Litter can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria, spread disease, and may cause fires. A 2009 Keep America Beautiful study found the U.S. spends about $11.5 billion per year to clean up litter.
National News
Sorry, we couldn't find any posts. Please try a different search.
Classifieds
Area News
Monee Police Blotter: February 6 – 11
Spread the loveOn February 6, at approximately 5:33 p.m., a traffic stop resulted in the arrest of Marcellus Bearden, 55, of Chicago. Bearden was issued citations for driving with expired license plates, driving while his license was suspended, and operating an uninsured vehicle. He was released with a notice to appear via his citations. On…
PJHS to Present ‘Annie JR.’ March 2-3
Spread the lovePeotone to learn important lessons: ‘You’re Never Fully Dressed without a Smile’ and ‘The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow.’ Leaping Lizards! Peotone will “stick up its chin and grin and sing ‘Tomorrow! Tomorrow!’” when Peotone Junior High performs Annie JR., it was announced by Drew Cohen, president of Music Theatre International (MTI). Based…
Joyce Responds to Proposed Aqua Illinois Rate Increases
Spread the loveIn response to Aqua Illinois filing a request with the Illinois Commerce Commission to increase the rate they charge for water, State Sen. Patrick Joyce issued the following statement recently: “Aqua Illinois recently filed for a water rate increase that could cause unnecessary financial hardships on families. Now is not the time to…
PHS Senior Scholarships Available; Deadlines Approaching
Spread the loveThe following scholarships recently were announced and are available for Peotone High School seniors. All application links are online on the PHS website. Go to the Student Services tab and click on “Scholarship Opportunities” to view all scholarships and qualifications. The deadline for most scholarships is March 8, unless otherwise indicated. •Alec J.…
Early Voting Begins on March 4 at New Locations
Spread the loveBy Karen Haave Early voting for the 2024 Primary Election will begin on Monday, March 4, with two new locations for casting ballots. As Monee Clerk Doneshia Codjoe reported during the village board’s December 13 meeting, Will County Clerk Lauren Staley Ferry’s office sent notification that early voting services will be moved to…
C-M 201-U Launches Strategic Planning Process
Spread the loveCrete-Monee School District 201-U is embarking on a strategic planning process to outline a path to sustainability and growth for the district in the coming years. The process will be driven by the Community Strategic Planning Workgroup, who will meet approximately four-to-five times during the next several months. Members will focus on identifying…
Ecumenical Soup Suppers, Lenten Services Begin
Spread the loveThe Peotone Ecumenical Council of Churches extends an invitation to gather together as the people of God on five Wednesdays in Lent. With the great success of the past, and the fellowship we have created as a community, residents will gather to share a simple dinner and inspiring worship on these nights. As…
Monee Police Blotter: February 1-5
Spread the loveOn February 1, at approximately 9:24 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 6600 block of Monee-Manhattan Road to investigate a theft. Reginald L. Johnson Jr., 27, of Lynwood, was arrested for theft-under $500 after he allegedly concealed an Apple Watch Series 9 under his sleeve. Johnson was taken to MPD, where…
Monee Chamber Again Offering Scholarships
Spread the loveThe Monee Chamber of Commerce, once again, is offering at least two $1,000 scholarships to high school graduates who reside in Monee Township. The application forms are on the Chamber webpage at monechamber.org, as well as at the student’s high school. Applications may be mailed to the Monee Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box…
Wind/Solar Task Force Looking for Changes in Illinois Legislation
Spread the loveBy Karen Haave Will County Board Chair Judy Ogalla and her newly formed Wind/Solar Task Force are looking for changes in Illinois legislation that has made it almost impossible to block construction of solar facilities. Solar farms, she said, “are all the rage, all over. Every month we have so many coming forward.”…
Gotion Holding Job Fair at KCC February 10
Spread the loveOn Saturday, February 10, Gotion, Inc., will hold a job fair to recruit workers for the electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant to be located in Manteno. The event will be held from 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., in the Iroquois Room, Room D152, at Kankakee Community College’s Riverfront Campus, 100 College Drive in…
Monee Police Blotter: January 23 – 29
Spread the loveOn January 23, at approximately 9:58 p.m., a traffic stop resulted in the arrest of Marlon Sanchez, 41, of Blue Island. Sanchez was issued citations for not having a valid driver’s license that was expired for more than one year and equipment violations. Sanchez was released with a notice-to-appear via his citations. January…
Rep. Haas Celebrates IBHE Grants for Olivet Nazarene University
Spread the loveFollowing the announcement of the recipients for this year’s Independent Colleges Capital Investment Grant Program, State Rep. Jackie Haas released the following statement: “I am delighted Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais is receiving more than $10 million in grant funding from the Independent College Capital Investment Grant Program,” said Rep. Haas. “Olivet Nazarene…
Rebuilding Illinois Key Part of Manufacturing Caucus Agenda
Spread the loveOur hard work to Rebuild Illinois is paying off, and I am excited to be part of a new group that will create more opportunities for our families and communities to grow and succeed. I recently was named one-of-four leaders in the Legislature of the new Illinois Manufacturing Caucus. This group will partner…
NIU Steelpan Band to Perform Locally March 9
Spread the loveThe Northern Illinois University Steelpan Band, who have performed locally and worldwide, will appear at Abundant Grace United Church of Christ, 18200 Dixie Highway in Homewood, on Saturday, March 9, from 6:30 – 8:45 p.m. Abundant Grace UCC is easily accessible and has ample parking on the east and west sides of the…