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Joliet Data Center Project Sparks Debate over Jobs, Environment, and Taxes
The Joliet City Council will vote on the proposed data center campus project, which would consist of 24 buildings on 800 acres of farmland, at 5:30 p.m. Thursday after a marathon public hearing that went past midnight on Monday.
Veteran Hitting Coach Luis Reyes Joins Joliet Slammers
Luis Reyes has been hired as the Joliet Slammers’ hitting coach, bringing with him experience from the Minnesota Twins’ minor league system and international professional experience.
Joliet West Student earns first place at regionals, qualifies for state math competition
Zeb Zamoras of Joliet West High School has qualified for the state math competition after placing first in the Algebra 2 event at the regional contest.
Prepare Ahead for Weekend Brunch with Farmer’s Casserole
Farmer’s Casserole is a hearty breakfast dish that can be prepared the night before and baked in the oven for a ready-to-serve meal.
Measure proposed to enhance ePAY program
State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is leading a measure to prevent software companies from restricting local governments’ use of certain payment processing systems, such as the State Treasurer’s ePAY program.
Hastings calls for regulation on platforms skirting Illinois gambling laws
State Senator Michael E. Hastings is calling for legislation to ensure that online prediction platforms that allow users to wager money on real world events are subject to the same rules and consumer protections as regulated gambling operators in Illinois.
One Hope United now enrolling children for summer camp programs
One Hope United is now enrolling children in its Summer Camp programs, offering full-day care with hands-on academic enrichment, STEM-based activities, sports, cooking, and arts and crafts for children ages 5-12 at locations in Aurora, Joliet, and Bridgeport (Chicago).
Dear EarthTalk: Are some forests starting to release more CO2 into the atmosphere than they are absorbing due to so many dying trees from pest infestation and wildfire? – F.M.
Forests are vital carbon sinks, but due to pest infestations, wildfires, and climate change, some forests are now releasing more CO2 than they absorb, shifting from carbon sinks to sources.
Dear EarthTalk: Are disposable plastic straws really so terrible for the environment and what are some good alternatives that won’t get mushy in liquid? — Mary B.
Single-use plastic straws are causing significant environmental and health harm, and alternative biodegradable and reusable straws are becoming a priority to reduce waste and protect ecosystems.

