Dupage Policy Journal

Senator Craig Wilcox recently conducted a two-day tour of businesses in his 32nd District, visiting various establishments in Lake Villa and Cary. The visits were organized in collaboration with local chambers of commerce and involved discussions on the challenges and opportunities faced by these businesses.

In Lake Villa, Senator Wilcox visited LovitIt Salon, Johnny D Tees, LLC, Harbor Brewing Company, and Timothy O’Toole’s Pub. The tour was supported by the Lake Villa, Lindenhurst, Round Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. Key figures accompanying him included Chamber Executive Director Mike Auckerman, Chamber President Katie Burau, Lake Villa Mayor James McDonald, and Village Administrator Michael Strong.

The following day in Cary, Wilcox continued his business tour with stops at Aptar, Plum Grove Inc., 750 Cucina Rustica, and the Cary Apothecary. This segment was organized with the Cary-Grove Area Chamber of Commerce. Joining him were Chamber President and CEO Lynn Caccavallo, Cary Mayor Kownick, Village Administrator Erik Morimoto, and Assistant Village Administrator Nick Radcliffe.

Senator Wilcox also announced upcoming "Conversations Untapped" events scheduled for July 15 at Spirit Water Brewery in Cary and July 23 at Rivalry Ale House in Antioch. Additional events include a document shredding event on August 16 in Woodstock and a pet adoption event on August 21 at Kishwaukee Brewing.

Separately last week, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker declared his intention to run for a third term as governor. Since first being elected in 2018, Pritzker has overseen significant increases in state spending. Under his leadership, Illinois has one of the highest tax burdens nationally and high unemployment rates within the Midwest.

Ahead of Independence Day celebrations, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and State Fire Marshal's office have urged residents to follow fireworks safety regulations strictly. Only licensed professionals are permitted to handle display fireworks under state law due to safety concerns highlighted by past incidents involving injuries.

For those wishing to report emergencies or violations related to fireworks use can contact IDNR or OSFM directly through their respective hotlines.