“Conversations Untapped” Provides Casual Conversations Opportunities in 32nd District
I want to thank everyone who came out to my Conversations Untapped event last week in Richmond at the Brathaus. Several people stopped in for a drink, some great food, and a casual chat with their State Senator.
Events like this allow me to really connect with the people I represent. I get to talk with them about issues that are important to them, and they can weigh in on new or recently-passed legislation.
My next Conversations Untapped event is scheduled for this week, on Wednesday, October 2, in Spring Grove. If you live in or around Spring Grove, I hope you join my staff and me at the Grove Pub & Grill from 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM.
New IPASS on Demand Event Added to Wilcox Events Calendar
In addition to the Conversations Untapped event in Spring Grove this week, I have three more events scheduled to round out my year’s community outreach efforts. You’ll notice that a second IPASS on Demand has been added to meet the need in this area.
Upcoming events in the 32nd District include:
- October 15, Senior Health Fair: Crystal Lake Park District Grand Oaks Building, 1401 W. Route 176, Crystal Lake, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- October 28, IPASS on Demand: Algonquin Township Building, 3702 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake, 3:00 – 7:00 PM
- November 4, IPASS on Demand: McHenry City Hall, 333 South Green Street, McHenry, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
You can visit the Events page on my website to learn more about these events.
New Changes to Illinois CDL Testing
New changes to the Illinois Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) test went into effect on September 1st. These updates impact both CDL and non-CDL drivers with a J51 restriction. Notably, the parallel parking requirement has been removed from the test.
The basic control skills portion has been streamlined to focus on four steps: forward stop, straight-line backing, forward offset tracking, and reverse offset backing. Additionally, pre-trip testing requirements have returned to the pre-2015 rules.
Girls Lead Program Now Accepting Applications
For the second consecutive year, the Illinois Council on Women and Girls is inviting girls in grades 5 through 12 to apply for the Illinois Girls Lead Program, a job shadowing and mentoring opportunity designed to connect students with women leaders in state government.
The Illinois Girls Lead Program offers a chance for young students to witness firsthand the impact women have on shaping Illinois. Participating mentors come from different areas of state government and serve in various leadership roles, including elected General Assembly women, policy directors, general counsels, chiefs of staff, agency directors, and more.
The shadowing opportunities are tailored by grade level, as follows:
- 5th Grade: One day of shadowing a female leader in state government, followed by a short reflection on what each participant learned.
- 6th-8th Grade: One day of shadowing a female leader, accompanied by an essay written by each participant on their mentor’s role, the office shadowed observed, and key leadership lessons.
- 9th-12th Grade: A minimum of three days shadowing a female leader and learning from her team. Participants will select an ongoing policy topic and write a research paper offering personal recommendations for solutions.
Applicants should demonstrate a strong desire to learn about the inner workings of state government. Applications are due by the end of the day on October 20th. To apply, visit the State Board of Education’s application page.
Submit Nominations for Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year
The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) wants to know more about outstanding educators, administrators, or school professionals who have made significant contributions to Illinois’ public and nonpublic elementary and secondary schools.
ISBE will be accepting applications until October 15th for the 2025 Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards.
Awards are presented in seven categories: classroom teachers, early career educators (teachers 1-4 years), school administrators, student support personnel, educational service personnel, community volunteers, and teams.
All awardees are honored at an annual banquet in the spring. To submit a nomination, click here.
Under the new update, drivers can now use a checklist during the pre-trip inspection, and test administrators are permitted to prompt drivers during examinations.
The Illinois Secretary of State (ILSOS) has released an updated section of the CDL study guide, found here.