–“If you’re a young photographer looking to make your mark in the state of Illinois, then get your cameras ready for the Cream of the Crop Photo Contest,” said Illinois State Treasurer Dan Rutherford.  

Governor Pat Quinn, Secretary of State Jesse White and State Superintendent of Education Christopher A. Koch today encouraged all students across Illinois to access a free online tool designed to promote summer reading and keep students” brains active before school resumes in the fall. State leaders agree that summer vacation should not signal a break from learning for Illinois” 2 million students.

“By reading during summer months, students can build a strong bridge from one school year to the next,” Governor Quinn said. “This free online tool is a great way for children to spend time with their parents while sharpening reading skills and preparing for the year ahead.”

Through the Memorial Day Holiday Weekend, Illinois State Police troopers will be participating in the   “Click It or Ticket” Campaign.  This will be accomplished through the use of Occupant Restraint Enforcement Patrols (O.R.E.P.) and Seatbelt Enforcement Zones (S.B.E.Z.) throughout the District 19 counties. 

In addition, District 19 Troopers will be conducting s.T.E.P. (special Traffic Enforcement Patrols) patrols, which involve a combination of increased enforcement and public information designed to raise the awareness and compliance of all traffic laws.  Finally, Troopers will be aggressively enforcing the “Fatal Four” traffic violations most associated with fatal traffic crashes:  Speeding, DUI, Failure to Wear a Seatbelt, and Distracted Driving.