Natural gas is almost as ubiquitous an energy source in American households as electricity. Indeed, 48 percent of U.S. homes stay warm with gas-powered furnaces while 38 percent do their cooking with gas. But recent revelations about the negative effect cooking with gas can have on indoor air pollution has given rise to new concerns about other types of gas-powered appliances inside our homes as well.
TW Our Environment: Dear EarthTalk: I’ve heard that gas stoves are bad for indoor air quality, but what about gas furnaces and other gas-powered appliances typically found in homes?
A 100th year celebration for Ruby Willis-Williams
Family and friends gathered in April to celebrate Ruby Willis-Williams’ 100th birthday, sharing memories and milestones, and looking forward to creating more in the future. There are many accomplishments in her life to commemorate: retired correctional officer at Statesville, and the first female sergeant in Illinois; Will County election judge; charter member of the Joliet Chapter of the National Hook-Up of Black Women; dedicated civil rights activist; advocate for the first Head Start program in Joliet; recipient of the Joliet Rotary Club Silver Eagle Award; and a member of Second Baptist Church since 1945, serving as usher and Sunday School teacher.
‘ComEd Four’ found guilty on all counts in bribery trial tied to ex-Speaker Madigan
A federal jury on Tuesday convicted three ex-lobbyists and the former CEO of electric utility Commonwealth Edison for their involvement in an alleged bribery scheme aimed at longtime Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.
Window to apply to be Air Traffic Controller opens Friday
The window to apply to be an air traffic controller will be open May 5 – 8, 2023. Candidates interested should go to faa.gov/be-atc to check eligibility, learn if they have what it takes to do the tough job, and gather documents to apply.
Grants of up to $5,000 available to cultural, community service programs from Nicor Gas
Expanding on its commitment to support neighborhoods across its service territory where stabilization needs are the greatest, Nicor Gas is providing $100,000 in funding to support cultural and community service programs.
Rock Run Crossings changes name to RockRun Collection
“As construction continues at the site, our feeling was that the development had evolved and needed to reflect more of the synergy we are cultivating with the possible tenant mix,” said Matthew Beverly, CEO of Cullinan Properties. “We also wanted to continue to focus on the aspect of providing an environment where visitors and local residents can come and spend a day or the weekend. Being close with the Joliet community and creating a place they are proud of is important and why we strive to collaborate with local municipalities,” added Beverly.
Romeoville Mayor Noak delivers 2023 State of the Village address
Romeoville Mayor John Noak delivers the 27th Annual State of the Village Address on Tuesday at the Mistwood Golf Club in Romeoville. In his address he highlighted another strong year for the Village of Romeoville, including the addition of over 1,600 jobs, retail sales projected more than $1.1 billion, and an equalized assessed value of the community at $1.48 billion. Given the success, the Village once again passed a balanced budget and lowered its portion of the property tax rate for the 8th year in a row.
Route 66 secures over $1.6 million for tourism industry
“As a lifelong resident of Will County, I know there is so much here to offer to tourists,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Making strong investments into our communities will continue to keep Will County and Illinois on the map.”
City of Joliet adds new category to CitizenVUE app
The City of Joliet has a new category on the free citizen engagement mobile app CitizenVUE. The new category titled “Americans with Disabilities Act” will provide residents a convenient way to report accessibility concerns in Joliet.
Joliet’s new mayor and council take oath of office
It was heartfelt and emotional goodbyes for Mayor Bob O’Dekirk and Councilwoman Bettye Gavin Monday evening as they attended their final meetings on the Joliet City Council.
But those re-elected to their prior posts and the duo who will preside over their first meetings as the newest elected officials on the City Council on Tuesday, Monday night was the beginning of what they hope will usher a brighter future for all residents of Joliet.

