ROCKFORD – Illinois Senator Steve Stadelman announced last week that he is directing $35,000 in state funding toward a new roof for the Nordlof Center, a dime-store-turned-theater donated to the Rockford Public Library less than two years ago.

Library trustees are considering two bids to replace the roof at the former New American Theater on North Main Street, which the library uses for cultural and arts programming, computer instruction and meeting rooms. The state funding, available under the Build Illinois capital development program, would cover at least half of the replacement cost.

"The library has a solid plan for fully utilizing this public asset, and it makes sense for the state to absorb half of this unforeseen roofing expense," said Stadelman, D-Rockford. "This grant protects the public and private investments that have been made in the building so far and allows the library to finish converting the space."

Private owner Richard Nordlof made several improvements before donating the building in late 2012. "As the longtime home of New American Theater," Stadelman said, "there's a lot of nostalgia and good will associated with this facility, and it remains a unique venue in an important downtown location."

SPRINGFIELD – Across Illinois, employers are looking to hire new workers, but a common refrain is that job applicants don't have the necessary skills to be hired. A measure sponsored by State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) aims to change that dynamic.

The measure, which passed the Senate today, would create a career and technical education incentive program for school districts if students complete technical training.

"In order to increase employment and economic development in Rockford and throughout Illinois, it's critical that we match employers with applicants who have the skills necessary for the job," Stadelman said. "This proposal makes it easier for students to gain valuable job training in sectors that are looking to hire people."

Under the proposed plan, the State Board of Education would identify industries in Illinois that face workforce shortages.

The school district would be eligible for a $1,000 grant for each student who successfully completes an industry-recognized certification program.

The grants would begin with the 2015-2016 school year.

The bill, SB 3033, passed the Senate and now moves to the House for further consideration.

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) released the following statement on the expansion of Amtrak service to Rockford:

"Getting Amtrak service back on track has been a priority for me since I've taken office. Many people have worked to bring us where we are today," Stadelman said. "I am excited to be part of the final push to make Amtrak service a reality. For too long, the Rockford community's needs were ignored. No longer. Our growing, vibrant city boasts tremendous transportation opportunities and the addition of passenger rail service to and from Chicago enhances the amenities our community needs."

Governor Pat Quinn announced a $223 million state capital investment that will create hundreds of jobs and restart Amtrak service between Rockford and Chicago beginning in 2015.

After two years of discussion, the state of Illinois has decided to switch to a new route, utilizing tracks owned by Metra and the Union Pacific Railroad.

The new northern route was chosen after lengthy negotiations with the Canadian National Railway, whose tracks were originally chosen for the service. Switching to the new tracks will ensure that service begins in 2015 and isn't held up by continued delays.

Senator Stadelman recently was honored as the 2013 Get to Know NAMI legislative award by the Northern Illinois Chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. From NAMI Northern Illinois' Facebook page:

Congratulations to Senator Steve Stadelman who is the recipient of our 2013 Get to Know NAMI legislative award. Senator Stadelman earned this award when he and his staff continually step up to help members of our community who have had issues with mental health care. Thank you for all you do.

Last week, Stadelman passed legislation that would ensure the Rockford area would still have adequate mental health-care services after the closing of Singer Mental Health Center.