Rep. Tipsword’s Weekly E-Newsletter: Around the District, Grants, Outdoors, and More

Earlier this week, we were fortunate to experience a day full day of community connection! We teamed up with Senator Chris Balkema for an Open House in Pontiac, then wrapped up the day with a Ribbon Cutting to celebrate the Grand Opening of our new district office in El Paso.

Thanks to everyone who stopped by to chat, ask questions, and learn more about the services available to you. We’re here to help!


GRANTS

As part of the 2025 Made in Illinois Grant Program, 29 small and mid-sized manufacturers across Illinois are receiving a combined $1.35 million in capital grant funding to drive innovation, efficiency, and growth in the state’s vital manufacturing sector. The program is part of Illinois’ broader commitment to support the state’s manufacturers while bolstering the manufacturing ecosystem.

The 2025 grant recipients include two companies in District 105. They are Tri C Company in Eureka and Zarc International, Inc. in Minonk. Congratulations to both of these small businesses and continued success into the future!  Governor Pritzker Awards $1.3 Million to 29 Manufacturing Companies Through Made in Illinois Grant Program


OUTDOORS

IDNR Free Fishing Days – Whether you are an experienced angler or a first-timer, this weekend presents a perfect opportunity for fathers to connect with their kids outdoors, embrace nature, and fish together.  The Caucus Blog of the Illinois House Republicans: Illinois residents can fish for free over Father’s Day weekend


CYBERSECURITY

A recent data breach at the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services may have exposed Illinoisans’ private information to hackers. Learn more here:  Illinois Department of Healthcare data breach reveals Social Security and child support details | MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports


LAW ENFORCEMENT

More than 3,000 law enforcement officers from across Illinois are expected to participate in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run over the next two weeks, carrying the Flame of Hope more than 1,500 miles through towns, cities, and communities statewide. Learn more here:  Illinois law enforcement torch run set to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics


IMMIGRATION

It looks like Governor Pritzker has gone back on yet another promise. After he assured Illinoisans they would not foot the bill for a Chicago migrant tent camp that was never built, a $1.3 million payment to the project’s contractor was quietly tucked into this year’s budget.  Illinois agrees to pay $1.3M for never-built migrant encampment