JOLIET — State Senator Rachel Ventura recently announced starting this month, Southern Illinois University is hosting its Cycle Rider Safety Training Program motorcycle classes on a limited basis, including at Joliet Junior College.

“We are excited to see this popular safety training program for new motorcyclists come back to Will County,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “By offering these courses, and encouraging drivers to see motorcycles on the road and – in turn – reducing motorcycle crashes, we can help prevent loss of life and give the best safety training available to new riders.”

The Illinois Department of Transportation’s Cycle Rider Safety Training Program, which was established in 1976, offers motorcycle-riding skills at three levels, from novice users and intermediate operators as well as advanced techniques for seasoned riders.

JOLIET — State Senator Rachel Ventura recently announced that a total of $66,297 has been granted to Joliet Junior College’s Adult Volunteer Literacy Program.

“These grant dollars will improve literacy levels, which will help improve people’s academic careers and help them become lifelong learners,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Investing in our libraries and aiding individuals with skills in reading, writing, math or improving their English proficiency is one of the greatest gifts we can back to the community.”

The grants were awarded by Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias, who has awarded nearly $22 million for library services and $6 million for literacy programs throughout the state.

JOLIET — State Senator Rachel Ventura released the following statement after the Illinois Supreme Court ruled that the smell of burnt cannabis alone no longer justifies a police search of a vehicle:

“Last year, I filed Senate Bill 125 to codify the appellate court decision affirmed by the Supreme Court into law. This particular ruling came after an individual in the Quad Cities area had their vehicle searched. However, this has been a long-standing issue across the state, including here in Will County, where an individual had their vehicle searched as well.

“I commend the court for coming to this decision today. Cannabis is legal in our state, and its use results in a pungent scent that can stick to clothes for extended periods of time. The odor of cannabis alone should not be used as a pretext for unwarranted traffic stops or searches, especially as people of color are unnecessarily pulled over far too often.

“The decision made today is a win for all Illinoisans and the protection of our 4^th Amendment rights.”

Originally published on ABC New Channel 20 on Sept. 19, 2024

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — Anassociate professor in the School of Education at the University of Illinois Springfield, is partnering with Springfield Public Schools District 186 to integrate yoga and social-emotional learning (SEL) into the curriculum.

Jennifer Martinrecently led a project combining a memoir-writing group with SEL and yoga workshops at Douglas Alternative School.

This initiative involved ninth-grade students, who created their own memoirs and engaged in yoga, breathing techniques and SEL practices. Feedback indicated that students found the breathing exercises effective for managing stress and improving emotional well-being.

Martin is also starting a yoga club at Hazel Dell Elementary School, targeting fifth-grade students during the Boys and Girls Club after-school program.This program aims to introduce younger students to yoga and SEL practices to support their physical, emotional and mental development.

Martin’s project aligns with new Illinois legislation, effective Jan. 1, 2025, which requires 20 minutes of yoga or meditation in schools. This new law, championed by State Senator Rachel Ventura, emphasizes the role of these practices in supporting student health and learning.