Wishing you the happiest of holidaysand a joyful 2022!

Dear Friends,

Last year at this time, we were lumbering toward the end of a year that tested us all in ways we never could have imagined. While many of those same struggles linger, I believe that collectively we're in a better place now than we were then. I wish you a safe, healthy and peaceful holiday and thank you once again for the privilege of representing you in state government. May 2022 bless you with much good fortune.

Warm wishes,

Steve Stadelman
State Senator, 34th District
 

Stadelman voices support for Times Theater restoration

State Senator Steve Stadelman and State Rep. Maurice West joined local officials this week to show support for plans to redevelop the historic Times Theater in downtown Rockford.

“Bringing back business to downtown Rockford is important to our redevelopment of the entire area,” Stadelman said. “The Times can and should once again be a vital part of our community's entertainment scene."

The long vacant 1938 auditorium hopes to receive $3 million in assistance from the Rebuild Downtowns & Main Streets Capital Grant program toward a $14 million total restoration cost. Plans are to host live performances and films for audiences of 600 to 900, filling a mid-size gap between the landmark Coronado Performing Arts Center and the Nordlof stage north and south of the Times, respectively, on Main Street.

Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the Main Streets grant program provides financial support for commercial corridors and downtowns that have experienced disinvestment, particularly in communities hit the hardest during the COVID pandemic. Developers also are seeking private contributions.

“Creating spaces for the arts to thrive is essential to a community's quality of life," Stadelman said, "and this venue could bring people of all backgrounds together to enjoy wonderful experiences."

Stadelman reminds drivers of extension to renew licenses

State Senator Steve Stadelman is reminding Illinois drivers they now have an additional three months to renew licenses and ID cards.The thee-month extension runs through March 31, 2022.

“Eliminating long lines and crowded facilities is one step we are taking to help slow the spread of COVID-19,” Stadelman said. “Between this latest extension and the many services available online, there is no need to rush to a brick-and-mortar facility to renew your license.”

The extension, which doesn't apply to commercial licenses, comes as Secretary of State offices across Illinois continue to fight backlogs stemming from COVID-19-related closures to their daily operations. Stadelman urges drivers to take advantage of online services that include:

• Renewing a vehicle registration;
• Applying for a vehicle title and registration;
• Obtaining a duplicate driver’s license or ID card;
• Obtaining a driving record abstract;
• Renewing a standard driver’s license with the Safe Driver Renewal program.

Stadelman also notes the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has extended the federal REAL ID deadline to May 3, 2023. Current Illinois driver’s licenses or ID cards continue to be accepted at the airport, military bases and secure federal facilities.