Illinois lawmakers are pushing for state-level legislation to protect the federal rights of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, who are often blocked from creating community living arrangements due to discriminatory local zoning laws.
Bill targets zoning laws that block homes for adults with disabilities
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Dear EarthTalk: What does “phantom load” mean with regard to energy consumption, how big of a problem is it, and what can we do to prevent it? — Jim C., Provo
Phantom loads from electronic devices consume approximately $200 of electricity per household annually, contributing to a total of $19 billion in costs and 450 tons of carbon dioxide emissions, but can be reduced by unplugging devices and investing in energy-efficient appliances.
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JJC seeks volunteer “fixers” for Romeoville repair Café
Joliet Junior College is looking for volunteer “fixers” to help people repair everyday items at a free Repair Café event on April 18th.
Posted inLocal
East & Southeast Regional Alliance April Meeting
The Three Rivers Association of Realtors is hosting their annual Home Expo on April 18, 2026, and Ezio Community Development Services is accepting applications for their Home Remodel & Repair Grant Program, while the City of Joliet Tree Advisory Board is organizing a training program to form an Openlands TreeKeepers Chapter.
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In Illinois, a short-term guardianship can help youths during ICE deportations
Short-term guardianship forms can be completed by parents to protect their children in case of deportation or other crises, allowing a trusted adult to take temporary custody of the child for up to one year.
Posted inNews
Statewide warehouse pollution reduction bill fails to meet committee deadline
The Warehouse Pollution Reduction Act, which would have created the first statewide regulations to reduce pollution from Illinois’ 2,400 warehouses, failed to receive a committee vote in either chamber of the General Assembly.
Posted inNews
Community honors Sgt. Jose Dueñez Jr. with memorial tribute and sign unveiling in Joliet
The Joliet community came together to honor the life and legacy of Sgt. Jose Dueñez Jr. with a memorial sign unveiling and a heartfelt ceremony, attended by community leaders, family, and friends.
Posted inNews
New Healing Place brings Trauma-Focused Care and Community Education to Joliet
Lorraine “Lorena” Guerrero, LCSW, CADC, PEL, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Senior Trauma Therapist, opened the Healing Place in downtown Joliet to provide trauma-focused care, education, and consulting to children, families, and organizations impacted by trauma.
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New gallery in downtown Joliet a destination for art enthusiasts
Bill Dimitroulas has opened the Atelier Joliet Art Gallery in downtown Joliet, featuring artwork ranging in price from $500 to $8000, with the goal of inspiring and connecting people from diverse backgrounds.
Posted inCommentary
License plate reader success is telling
License plate cameras have been instrumental in helping law enforcement identify and stop criminals, providing a sense of safety and security to families with special needs who are particularly vulnerable.
