SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura celebrated Illinois’ music history with a Senate resolution honoring legendary rock band REO Speedwagon for their enduring contributions to music, culture and the state as a whole.

Senate Resolution 502 was introduced at the request of the Illinois Rock and Roll Museum in Joliet, which formally presented the honor to members of REO Speedwagon during a special recognition event held in March.

“REO Speedwagon is a defining part of Illinois’ musical legacy,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “For decades, their music has brought people together, inspired generations of artists, and put our state on the map in the world of rock and roll. I’m proud to recognize their incredible achievements with this Senate resolution.”

BOLINGBROOK – State Senator Rachel Ventura and State Representative Dagmara Avelar are celebrating a $1,600 grant awarded to Brooks Middle School in Bolingbrook through the Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grant Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois Conservation Foundation.

“For me, education is strongest when students can step outside the classroom and experience learning firsthand,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Field trips like this give students the opportunity to engage directly with the natural world, ask questions and build a deeper understanding that simply can’t be replicated in a textbook.”

SPRINGFIELD – A bill sponsored by State Senator Rachel Ventura that would allow current tenants of a rental property the right to make an offer on the residence before an outside party was heard on subject matter in the Senate Executive Committee Thursday.

“With rent prices rising and the high cost of living continuing to place a heavy burden on working Illinoisans, we need to make sure existing housing stock is prioritized for individuals and families, not private equity,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Nearly 35% of Illinois residents rent their homes, and in a time of increasing fiscal uncertainty, we must take steps to protect renters from business practices that could see them facing sudden eviction.”

SPRINGFIELD - A measure led by State Senator Rachel Ventura providing grants to local governments for planting native trees and grasses in communities passed the Senate Wednesday.

“Planting native greenery in local communities is a small step that can have a massive impact in combatting the catastrophic effects of climate change,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Responsible stewardship of the environment starts right in our own backyards.”