(WASHINGTON, D.C.) In our nation’s capitol, Congresswoman Mary Miller has introduced the Defining Male & Female Act, which will constitutionally codify the definition of gender as either male or female. The Oakland, Illinois farmer and other downstate lawmakers believe that such a move is very much needed to provide clear legal definitions so neither the current administration nor any future administration in Washington, D.C. can redefine Title IX. Furthermore, Miller and the other downstate lawmakers say it is time to take action to protect biological women and girls’ opportunities and safety while officially recognizing the fundamental differences between men and women.
(SPRINGFIELD) A new report says people experiencing homelessness are likely to have a significantly reduced life expectancy and therefore are more likely to be the victim of a violent assault and/or homicide. The Illinois Homelessness Morbidity & Mortality Report, prepared for the Illinois Department of Public Health by the University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health, is based on statewide hospital records and death certificates and was developed as part of an ongoing multi-agency effort by Illinois State Government to promote housing access and stability throughout the state of Illinois.
(SPARTA) One of the premier events in shooting sports has returned to southwestern Illinois with the annual Amateur Trapshooting Association’s Grand American Trapshooting Championships at the World Shooting & Recreational Complex in Sparta. The largest and oldest shooting event of its kind, the Grand American features more than 20 events with over 5,000 competitors and spectators from throughout America and the world every year. The event, which was first hosted at the downstate site in 2006, has an estimated economic impact of around $30 million annually. The 125th annual shooting event officially began yesterday with the shooting to continue each day through Saturday, August 10th.
(SPRINGFIELD) Those interested in displaying their vehicles in this year’s Secretary of State’s Vehicle Show to be held in Springfield on Saturday, September 7th, now have 30 days to pre-register for the popular event. Highlighting the 60th Anniversary of the iconic 1964 Ford Mustang, the 74th Annual Vehicle Show will run from 10:00 to 3:30 in the State Capitol Complex with vehicle registration from 7:00 to 10:00 that morning. To be held rain or shine, the show & swap meet is also open to motorcycles, trucks, & tractors. The signup deadline is August 30th. For a registration form & more, go to ilsos.gov/services/vehicle_show/home.