Morrison applauds Watts Rec Center's new disability accommodations

HIGHWOOD – People with disabilities will soon be able to take greater advantage of the Watts Recreational Center and its ice skating rink thanks to a $2.5 million investment from the Rebuild Illinois capital grant program supported by State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest).

“The Watts Recreational Center has been a staple for many years thanks to its outdoor, lighted skating rinks and more than three acres of land,” Morrison said. “More people will be able to comfortably use this Glencoe gem because of this additional funding.”

The Watts Recreational Center, located within the Glencoe Park District, will receive $2.5 million for renovations and updates to allow the center to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards. Projects include a new elevator, a secondary entrance, as well as a new multi-purpose room, restrooms and storage. Additionally, support spaces within the ice skating rink will be renovated.

The PARC grant program provides up to 90% of project costs to help build, renovate and improve recreational buildings used by the public, with local governments matching the value of the grants awarded. The grant to Glencoe Park District was one of 17 grants awarded across the state this week.

“Fighting for inclusivity for people with disabilities has been one of my top priorities as a state senator, so it’s great to see that by voting for the Rebuild Illinois capital grant program, I was, in part, voting for a more inclusive community,” Morrison said.

A full list of grantees is available on IDNR’s website.

Morrison: As Lake County vaccination site ramps up, make a plan to get your shot

HIGHWOOD – Lake County residents will have an easier time receiving their COVID-19 vaccine thanks to enhanced support from the state, and Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) encourages any person eligible to schedule their shot at the Lake County Fairgrounds vaccination site.

“More workers will allow us to eventually create more vaccination sites, which will lead to more accessible doses for all Lake County residents,” Morrison said. “If you’re eligible, it’s time to make a plan to get your shot.”

The Illinois National Guard was called upon by Governor JB Pritzker to bolster current operations at the Lake County Fairgrounds site. Bringing in the National Guard will allow existing staff to relocate to other parts of the county to assure wider distribution of the vaccine to the communities who need it the most.

The COVID-19 vaccination site at the Lake County Fairgrounds opened earlier this year to help vaccinate as many people as possible. Because of the size of the expo hall, dozens of vehicles can be parked inside while the vaccine is administered to them through their windows. 

To receive a vaccine, people must be registered on the Lake County AllVax system and bring their QR code, which will then be scanned before the vaccine is delivered.

“Health care workers and the Illinois National Guard members who have been supporting the state’s vaccine efforts deserve the utmost appreciation,” Morrison said. “Please, if you are eligible, get your vaccine and thank a health care worker.”

Additionally, any person in Illinois who meets the eligibility criteria can schedule an appointment at a state-supported mass vaccination site by visiting vaccine.cookcounty.il.gov.

Morrison passes legislation to expand dental coverage for people with developmental disabilities

SPRINGFIELD – A measure to curb the price of dental care by expanding Medicaid coverage for people with autism and developmental disabilities sponsored by State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) is on its way to be considered by the full Senate. 

“Healthy teeth can help lead to better overall physical health,” Morrison said. “However, not everyone can endure the stressors of the dentist. We must ensure everyone – including people with autism or other developmental disabilities – can receive the care they need.”

Senate Bill 346 addresses dental care services that are either not covered or under-reimbursed by Medicaid. The measure, which is similar to two bills Morrison filed last year before the pandemic, expands coverage of dental care and anesthesia for people with autism or a developmental disability, making those individuals more comfortable when visiting the dentist.

According to the Journal of the American Dental Association, because it is difficult for them to get treatment, people with developmental disorders suffer “a high burden of dental disease.” More than 30% of the patients studied suffered from untreated cavities and 80% from serious gum infections.

Additionally, the measure requires Medicaid to cover dental care, including anesthesia, that is provided in a hospital or surgical treatment center for any individual with a medical condition that requires hospitalization or general anesthesia.

The measure passed the Senate Health Committee Tuesday. It now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration.

Morrison leads hearing on vaccine distribution

SPRINGFIELD – Following up on her promise to hold local health departments and other COVID-19 vaccine stakeholders accountable, State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) led a Senate hearing Monday to receive updates on the statewide distribution plan.

“Doses and distribution of the vaccine are ramping up, but we still have eligible people who have struggled to get an appointment,” Morrison said. “However, the number of people vaccinated and the promise from the federal government to increase supply have given me hope for the future.”

Last month, Morrison hosted a Senate hearing to get to the bottom of the confusing vaccination distribution process and call for a more comprehensive and timely plan. During the Feb. 11 meeting, she and other members of the Senate Health Committee raised concerns about the number of available vaccines and the competitive crowd.

Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike reassured the group people will receive their vaccines as quickly as possible. During Monday’s update, Ezike said more than four million vaccines have been administered in Illinois – an exciting milestone that has led to over 25% of adults getting their dose.

However, she also acknowledged in certain areas of the state – including suburban Cook County and rural areas – supply is lacking. She said she expects the number of doses to ramp up in the weeks to come. Additionally, she announced a rural vaccination program which will send mobile sites to certain communities this week.

While Morrison said she is pleased so many eligible Illinoisans have been vaccinated, she hopes to see the number grow exponentially in the weeks to come.

“The demand for the vaccine is higher than ever, but the number of doses available is continuing to grow,” Morrison said. “Thanks to the work of health department officials and the patience of Illinoisans anxious to receive their dose, we are the right track toward normalcy.”

Last week, the Lake County Public Health Department reported more than 50% of people over the age of 65 were vaccinated, and Cook County reported more than 65%.  

Any person who has questions about the vaccine or who is struggling to find an appointment is encouraged to call IDPH’s vaccine hotline at 833-621-1284.