To uplift the vital economic contributions the arts industry provides to Illinois and the Northwest Suburbs, State Senator Cristina Castro helped lead an initiative through the Senate to support this industry and others.

“Illinois’ creative and performing arts industries employ nearly 200,000 Illinoisans,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “With more flexible rules in place, well-paying job opportunities and a diverse pool of talent, we can expect to see continuing success in the growth of the arts across our state.”

The Illinois Live Theater Production Tax Credit Program provides theaters with a transferable tax credit, offering an incentive to hire locally by covering a percentage of Illinois labor and in-state talent costs.

To help local veterans and their loved ones access important resources and connect with veteran-serving organizations, State Senator Cristina Castro is partnering with Elgin City Councilman Anthony Ortiz and Hanover Township to host a resource fair this November.

“Navigating the complex web of services and benefits as a veteran or family member can be overwhelming,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “We want to do everything we can to connect these brave individuals with the supports and opportunities that will help them thrive.”

Veterans, their families and caregivers are invited to meet with service groups, nonprofit organizations, local businesses and others at the veterans’ resource fair on Wednesday, Nov. 6 to learn about assistance and other benefits they may be eligible for. The event will be held from noon to 3 p.m. at the Hanover Township Senior Center and is open to all military branches. Attendees will also hear from special guest speaker Vietnam veteran Marine Corps Cpl. Jack Imburgia, Delta Company, 2nd Platoon, 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment.

Photo: City of Elgin

Elgin-area residents will see enhanced recreational activities in the coming years as Elgin breaks ground on its new sports complex expansion, a move State Senator Cristina Castro applauds.

“Investing in the infrastructure that improves residents’ quality of life will create new construction jobs, draw visitors, and help Elgin attract new events and tournaments – ultimately benefiting our local economy,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “I’m excited to see this project begin and look forward to the new opportunities the complex will create for families, athletes and vendors across our community.”

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To help reduce the spread of influenza this fall and winter, State Senator Cristina Castro is encouraging residents to protect themselves by getting their annual flu shot at an upcoming event this month.

“An annual flu vaccine is the first and best way to keep yourself and others healthy this winter,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “Our community flu shot clinics will give residents of the 22^nd District the opportunity to safely and conveniently protect themselves from the flu this winter.”

Castro has partnered with Ascension Health to offer free flu shots Saturday, Oct. 12 from 9 a.m. to noon in the Elgin Room at Gail Borden Library, located at 270 N. Grove Ave. in Elgin. Flu shots will also be offered at a second event on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Hanover Township Senior Center, located at 240 Illinois Route 59 in Bartlett.

Flu shots at both events will be available for adults 18 and older. For more information, contact Castro’s office at 847-214-8864 or online.