Stadelman: Local library awarded grant to enhance technology

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman announced that the Rockford Public Library was awarded a Secretary of State grant aimed at assisting public libraries in underserved communities with crucial technology advancements.

“In today’s digital age, access to technology is key for personal and professional development,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “By enhancing the technological capabilities of our public libraries, we are empowering residents with the tools they need to succeed. This grant will help level the playing field for those in underserved areas, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive in our increasingly digital world.”

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Stadelman announces state funding for local business development organizations

• Rockford

ROCKFORD - Two local business development organizations are receiving more than $53,000 in state funding as part of Illinois' ongoing efforts to provide relief from the harmful economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, State Senator Steve Stadelman announced today.

Growth Dimensions for Belvidere & Boone County Inc. is being awarded $40,969 and Miracle Mile Rockford Corporation will get $12,236 in the latest round of Back to Business (B2B) Local Chambers grants. Business and professional organizations dedicated to improving the economic climate and business development of the community in which they are located qualified for the B2B grants along with traditional chambers of commerce so long as they had annual revenue of $1 million or less.

Awarded through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the B2B chamber grants can be used to market and develop communities or provide small businesses with professional development and other support to help grow local economies. Grant amounts were determined by total annual revenue declines between 2019 and 2020 as reflected on tax returns. All eligible applicants received a grant as long as the organization met eligibility requirements and submitted proper documentation.

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Stadelman announces funding for mental health clinic in Rockford

• Rockford

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman announced that a mental health center in Rockford has been chosen to join a federal program aimed at enhancing access to coordinated mental health care and substance use services.

“By participating in this program, we are taking a proactive approach to provide better care, reduce stigma, and to support those in need,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This initiative represents more than just enhanced care – it signifies hope and progress for our community.”

The local selected awardee organization is Rosecrance Incorporated in Rockford.

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Stadelman opens annual summer reading challenge

State Senator Steve Stadelman is opening his annual Summer Book Club online today and with formal kickoff rally June 17.

During his summer reading challenge, Senator Stadelman encourages students in the 34th legislative district that he represents to read eight books over the summer. Those who accomplish the challenge are invited to celebrate at an August pizza party.

For a third year, Stadelman is basing his Summer Book Club at the Boys and Girls Club Stenstrom Unit, where the kickoff and pizza party will take place. Students at Stenstrom participate in the book club as part of their Summer Enrichment Program where experienced teachers focus on building math and reading skills through small group lessons, hands-on activities and interactive Chromebook exercises.

But the kickoff rally and the pizza party are open to any student whose parent or guardian signs and returns a form listing the eight books that were enjoyed to fulfill the challenge. The kickoff rally -- where Senator Stadelman will read a book aloud -- is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. June 17 at the Stenstrom Unit, 609 Kilburn Avenue, Rockford.

Families can download a brochure by visiting https://www.senatorstadelman.com/SBC. Or paper copies can be obtained by visiting public libraries in Rockford, Loves Park, Cherry Valley and Belvidere beginning the week of June 10.