Originally published on Herald-News Will County on June 22, 2024

“This is so exciting for our community,” said Ventura, who presented Johnson with a resolution from state leaders recognizing the museum. “This investment in tourism and history will be an economic driver in our community, and as someone who loves to sightsee, I’m excited to have another tourism destination in our backyard. This museum will become a cornerstone for the community – a place where we can reflect on our past, celebrate our present and look forward to a brighter future together.”

JOLIET – Building upon the smart infrastructure investments supported by State Senator Rachel Ventura, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced an investment of $233.5 million in road and bridge improvement projects coming to the area.

“Transportation infrastructure is essential to our community as we are a critical juncture for not just Illinois but the country,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Joliet is a major transportation hub in Illinois, and much needed investments in our roads is crucial to improving the area.”

ROMEOVILLE – State Senator Rachel Ventura recently announced that Valley View Community Unit School District 365U received a $40,000 grant to allow it to expand arts or foreign language classes.

“Whether it be for aid in teacher planning or professional development, I am pleased to see efforts in funding local schools districts like Valley View,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “I commend the Illinois Art Council and Illinois State Board of Education for putting a focus on such an important program that will give thousands of students a better school experience and make memories for a lifetime.”

Valley View School District 365U serves students from Bolingbrook, Romeoville and portions of Plainfield, Lockport and Downers Grove, and serves the educational needs of approximately 18,000 students in 21 educational facilities.

JOLIET – To emphasize the importance of learning throughout the summer, State Senator Rachel Ventura is hosting a Summer Book Club.

“Reading keeps students engaged throughout the summer. I encourage students of all ages will take advantage of this program to make reading a habit and be rewarded for it,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This is a great way to keep kids actively learning. Developing a love of reading at a young age is key to a child's development and to increase their desire to read.”

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form and return the form to Senator Ventura’s office by Aug. 16.

Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card for a frozen treat from a local ice cream shop from Senator Ventura.

Ventura encourages residents of the 43rd District to participate in the program and visit their local library. Summer Book Club forms will soon be available at the following participating libraries:

• Woodridge Public Library
• Fountaindale Public Library District
• Joliet Public Library District
• Three Rivers Public Library District
• Manhattan-Elwood Public Library
• White Oak Library District
• Shorewood-Troy Public Library

Summer Book Club forms are also available to download at SenatorVentura.com as well as contact information for the libraries. People with questions can reach out to Ventura’s office at (331) 290-0443.