DEERFIELD – Thanks to strong support from State Senator Julie Morrison, local parks received a combined total of $1.8 million from the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant to help continue ongoing improvements.

“An investment in our parks is an investment in our communities,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “The 29^th Senate District has some of the best parks in the state, and that is – in part – thanks to state funding we’ve brought to the area.”

OSLAD is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. It’s become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. Since its establishment, OSLAD has awarded $675 million for park projects throughout Illinois.

Northbrook Park District, Prospect Heights Park District and the City of Lake Forest each received a total of $600,000 for their respective projects. With the funding, Techny Prairie Park and Fields will be renovated, Country Gardens Park will see redevelopment, and South Park will see continued enhancements.

“Our team at the Park District is excited to see this major project move forward with the support of OSLAD funding. The renovation of Techny Prairie Park and Fields — a well-used asset that is nearing the end of its useful life — has strong community backing, developed through an extensive community engagement process,” said Northbrook Park District Executive Director Chris Leiner. “District leadership is grateful for the continued support of our local legislators who prioritize funding for park districts.”

In partnership with Let It Be Us, State Senator Julie Morrison's office office invites you to attend a free, informative Foster Care & Adoption 101 Seminar on Saturday, Jan. 31 from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Libertyville Civic Center, located at 135 W Church St. in Libertyville.

This seminar is designed to help individuals and families learn how they can make a meaningful difference for children in Illinois foster care. Whether you are just beginning to explore fostering or adoption, or you are ready to take the next step, this session will give you the knowledge and support to get started.

During this seminar, you will hear from knowledgeable guest speakers about the various types of foster care available in Lake County and surrounding areas, including emergency, specialized, traditional and therapeutic foster care.

You will also learn what each pathway entails, what supports are available, and how Let It Be Us can guide you through your fostering or adoption journey.

Learn more and register for the event here.

SPRINGFIELD — Acknowledging the interconnected nature of human, animal and environmental health, State Senator Julie Morrison’s new law designed to enhance coordination among health care providers, veterinary professionals and environmental specialists in addressing Illinois' public health concerns takes effect Jan. 1.

“Recent events have demonstrated the clear connection between animal and human health – from COVID-19 to the latest bird flu cases,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Cross-disciplinary collaboration will enable the state to respond more effectively to complicated health threats.”

Senate Bill 291 establishes a One Health Commission within the Illinois Department of Public Health to promote collaboration among physicians, veterinarians and other scientific professionals. The commission will work closely with state agencies to recommend best practices to promote interdisciplinary communication, establish methods for the response to and recovery from disease outbreaks in animals and humans, and develop ways to monitor emerging health threats, among other responsibilities. The commission will submit a report of recommendations to the governor and General Assembly by Jan. 1, 2027.

The One Health approach recognizes the connection between human, animal and environmental health. This framework promotes a multisector approach to addressing broad health challenges, such as diseases that spread between animals and people, and bacteria or viruses that become resistant to medicine. Research shows integrating expertise across disciplines helps achieve better health outcomes for all living things.

"This law dismantles the barriers that currently separate human, animal and environmental health sectors," said Morrison. "Implementing a One Health framework enables us to leverage the expertise of top professionals across these fields, allowing for more proactive strategies in protecting public health."

Senate Bill 291 takes effect Jan. 1

DEERFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison is teaming up with the Deerfield-Bannockburn Fire Department to teach residents of all ages how they can help their friends, family, neighbors and others with emergency medical treatment before the professional paramedics arrive.

“Being equipped with basic skills to help during a medical emergency can save a life," said Morrison (D-Lake Forest).  "In the event that you should be called upon to provide assistance to someone in distress, this event is the perfect opportunity to introduce you to important life saving techniques."

The event will be held Saturday, Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Deerfield Bannockburn Fire Department located at 500 Waukegan Rd. in Deerfield. The fire department will host a number of informational stations including hands-only CPR, "Stop the Bleed," calling 911, and how to help someone who is choking. The Lake County Health Department will also provide Naloxone for folks to take home, as well as substance use treatment options.

The event is free and open to the public. People of all ages are encouraged to attend. Residents with questions can call Morrison’s office at 847-945-5200.