Equipment Upgrades Grant Program (Illinois Grocery Initiative)

Equipment Upgrades Grant Program (Illinois Grocery Initiative) is sponsored by Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). This program provides grants for energy-efficient equipment upgrades for existing independently owned for-profit grocery stores, cooperative grocery stores, or not-for-profit grocery stores in Illinois.

[](https://dceo. illinois. gov/news/press-release.

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html#) # Amid Measles Outbreak in Douglas County, IDPH Urges Illinoisans to Get Vaccinated # Governor Pritzker Announces Applications Open for Next Round of Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program # SAMPLE AND SHOP LOCAL AT THE ILLINOIS PRODUCT EXPO # IDNR invites potential vendors to pre-bid meeting for concession operation at Moraine View State Park # IDNR invites potential vendors to pre-bid meeting for gift shop concession operation at World Shooting and Recreational Complex # Lincoln’s New Salem to host 45th traditional music festival and bluegrass concerts Sept.

11-12 # Galesburg Community Water System and Six Satellite Systems Notified of Right-to-Know Requirements # Make sure to come to a complete stop… and connect with IDOT at the Illinois State Fair **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** **Media contact:**dnr. pio@illinois. gov **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** **Media contact:** dnr.

pio@illinois. gov **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** **Media contact:** dnr. pio@illinois.

gov **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:** Joe Schatteman 217. 970.

0082 _**State, local health departments mobilize after at least four confirmed cases of measles identified in area residents**_ **KEY POINTS FOR MEDIA:** * At least four confirmed, linked cases of measles have been identified in Douglas County * IDPH is working with area health departments and providers to offer immunizations, identify exposure locations, and provide guidance for exposed persons * Immunization remains the best protection against measles; two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles **SPRINGFIELD –**The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is responding to an outbreak of measles in Douglas County, Illinois, involving at least four cases.

An outbreak is defined as three or more cases that are connected by a common exposure source or epidemiological link. IDPH is working with local health departments to identify residents who were exposed to patients during their infectious period and offer vaccination to those who are high-risk, as well as others in the community.

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can be administered to unvaccinated persons six months and older who are exposed to measles, but they must receive the shot within 72 hours of first exposure. In addition, an injection known as immune globulin can be provided to high-risk individuals who cannot receive the measles vaccine or who missed the 72-hour window, including infants, pregnant persons, or people who are immunocompromised.

People who are non-immune (have no protection from measles) are encouraged to get vaccinated in consultation with a health care provider. It is important that all residents who are not immune (or protected from measles) get vaccinated at least two weeks before international travel or travel to areas with measles outbreaks.

“Illinois is fortunate to have high vaccination rates overall that protect most Illinois residents from measles,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “However, there are still areas across the state with lower vaccination rates where people are at high risk.

With almost 3,000 cases in the US so far this year, IDPH has been preparing and works closely with local public health and health care partners on strategies to reduce spread and minimize outbreaks. IDPH continues to urge clinicians to be attentive to pre-travel vaccination needs and consider a measles diagnosis in patients with consistent symptoms and alert their local health department immediately if they suspect a case.

” “The key to preventing measles is the highly effective measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses of measles vaccine are 97% effective in preventing measles,” said Dr. Vohra. “I recommend that our Illinois residents make sure that they and their family members are up to date on the MMR vaccine and all other age-appropriate immunizations.

” Measles is a highly contagious disease, which is caused by a virus. It can easily be spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through direct contact with nose or throat secretions from an infected individual. Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but unfortunately it has seen a resurgence in recent years as national immunization rates have dropped.

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is administered in two doses. The first is usually given around one year of age and the second between four and six years of age, usually before the child starts school, but can be given as soon as 28 days after the first dose. A single dose is 93% effective in preventing measles, while the two-dose regimen is 97% effective.

You can learn more about measles and how to prevent it at Measles on the IDPH website.

There you can also find other resources, including IDPH’s School Vaccination Coverage Dashboard and Measles Outbreak Simulator Dashboard The Department of Central Management Services has received notice from Governor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act are to fly the flags at half-staff in honor of: Please lower the United States flags and the State flags at all buildings occupied by your agency’s personnel from: **Sunrise Friday, September 11, 2026** **until Sunset Friday, September 11, 2026** More information is available at https://www.

illinois. gov/about/flag-honors. html _**Eligible entities can now apply for the sixth round of funding through Illinois Works**_ **CHICAGO –**Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced applications are now open for the sixth round of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program provides training opportunities, expands the talent pipeline, and boosts diversity in the construction industry and building trades. Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) process. “Illinois Works is about opening doors to opportunity and giving every Illinoisan a clear path to a good career and a good life,” **said Governor JB Pritzker**.

“This latest round of funding will build on our continued success investing in our people, fostering a diverse talent pipeline, and giving businesses the skilled workforce they need to grow and thrive in our state. ” “Illinois Works is an invaluable asset, creating opportunities for all Illinoisans, including good-paying jobs in the trades.

These opportunities are especially meaningful for expanding diversity in the workforce,” **said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton**. “We're committed to making Illinois the best place to live, work and raise a family. Bettering our infrastructure and creating long-term success is key to doing just that.

” This round of $25 million in funding will increase the representation of underrepresented groups – including people of color, veterans, and women in the construction trades. This round of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program will fund up to 45 programs throughout the state including new grantees, serving nearly 2,000 residents.

“The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program is a great example of how the state prioritizes investments in our world-class workforce,” **said DCEO Director Kristin Richards**. “Through this program, we are continuing to create a diverse pipeline of talent ensuring Illinois continues to be a leader in the construction trades.

” The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 with the goal of increasing access to apprenticeship programs to a more diverse pool of candidates. These comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide graduates a greater opportunity to start a long-term career in the trades.

Since the program’s inception Illinois Works has awarded over $70 million serving over 7,000 residents. Participants of the program attend tuition-free and receive a stipend and other supportive, barrier reduction services, to help enter the construction industry.

Upon completion of the program, pre-apprentices receive industry aligned certifications, which will prepare and qualify them to continue to a registered apprenticeship program in one of the trades. Illinois Works is expanding DCEO’s statewide network of providers to recruit, prescreen, and provide pre-apprenticeship skills training.

The program providers offer structured pathways and manage the program graduates' transition from the pre-apprenticeship program to a registered apprenticeship program in construction and the building trades. “I’m thrilled to hear about the continued success of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program,” **said Representative Will Davis**.

“Creating a diverse pipeline of talent is critical to ensuring all Illinoisians have an opportunity to succeed and obtain a good paying job that result in long term careers. ” “Initiatives like the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program are crucial in preparing the next generation of Illinoisians for careers in the construction trades,” **said Senator Cristina Castro**.

“The success of this program has been transformative for not only the residents of Illinois but for the state’s overall economic development. ” Eligible applicants include non-profit, community-based organizations, such as industry associations, chambers of commerce, local workforce areas, community colleges, technical schools, and school districts.

Experienced and new providers are encouraged to apply, along with existing Illinois Works grantees who propose to serve a different geographic area or Economic Development Region than they were originally contracted to serve. Priority will be given to applicants serving priority Economic Development Regions and underrepresented populations as outlined in the NOFO. Qualified entities can apply for grants between $150,000 to $550,000.

Applications will be accepted until October 2, 2026, at 5:00 p. m. To view the NOFO and apply for the grant, please visit the DCEO website.

Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to CEO. GrantHelp@illinois. gov for application assistance.

To help applicants prepare to apply for funding, DCEO will also be providing technical assistance in the form of webinars, regional meetings, and FAQ. Signed into law in 2019, the Illinois Works Jobs Program Act is designed to promote diversity, inclusion, and use of apprentices in state-funded capital projects.

The Act created three major programs: the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, the Illinois Works Apprenticeship Initiative, and the Illinois Works Bid Credit Program. Together these three programs aim to create a talent pipeline of skilled and diverse candidates to fill new job opportunities created by the $45 billion Rebuild Illinois capital plan.

**DU QUOIN, IL –** The Du Quoin State Fair celebrates Illinois agriculture – the state’s number one industry – and there’s no better way to experience it than with a visit to the 2026 Illinois Product Expo.

“Consumers are increasingly interested in where their food comes from, and the Illinois Product Expo is a great way to connect buyers with local farmers and producers,” **said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA)**. “With demand for locally grown products on the rise, we’re excited to showcase the best of Illinois agriculture at the Du Quoin State Fair.

” The Illinois Product Expo, located in the Expo Hall, will be open the second weekend of the Du Quoin State Fair. Shop for local products Friday, Sept. 4 from 5 to 9 p.

m. ; Saturday, Sept. 5 from 9 a.

m. to 8 p. m.

; and Sunday, Sept. 6 from 11 a. m.

to 5 p. m. Vendors will be offering samples and selling seasonings, jellies and jams, honey, freeze dried candy, salsa, coffee, herbal tea, soaps, lip balm, birdhouses, wood and gourd crafts, candles and much more.

In addition, several Illinois wineries will offer wine tasting. "The Illinois Product Expo in Du Quoin is one of my favorite opportunities to celebrate the incredible flavors of Southern Illinois,” **said Kayla Graven, IDOA Domestic Marketing Manager**. “It’s a chance for people to sample outstanding local products and support the companies that make Illinois so vibrant.

We’re proud to showcase the creativity and quality of the businesses." The Du Quoin State Fair runs from August 28 - September 7. Admission to the fair is free.

Please visit dsf. illinois. gov for additional information including seasonal parking and handicap parking details.

**SPRINGFIELD –**The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) invites interested vendors to attend a pre-bid meeting for operating a concession at Moraine View State Park in McLean County. The mandatory pre-bid meeting will occur at 10 a. m.

Monday, Sept. 21 at the site’s restaurant location. During the meeting, participants will receive essential details on the bid submission process, contract terms, expectations and requirements.

IDNR encourages all interested vendors to register in BidBuy at bidbuy. illinois. gov. There is no cost to register.

Additional site-specific concessions information and meeting information is available on the BidBuy website. Search NIGP code 961-15 to receive notifications for upcoming IDNR concession pre-bid meetings. Moraine View State Park is at 27374 Moraine View Park Road in LeRoy.

The site features camping, hiking, fishing and boating opportunities. For additional information call 309-724-8032. **SPRINGFIELD –**The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) invites interested vendors to attend a pre-bid meeting for operating a gift shop concession at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County.

The pre-bid meeting will take place at 10 a. m. Tuesday, Sept.

15 via WebEx. Call 1-312-535-8110 and enter access code 2861 583 2096. During the meeting, participants will receive essential details on the bid submission process, contract terms, expectations and requirements.

IDNR encourages all interested vendors to register in BidBuy at bidbuy. illinois. gov. There is no cost to register.

Additional site-specific concessions information and meeting information is available on the BidBuy website. Search NIGP code 961-15 to receive notifications for upcoming IDNR concession pre-bid meetings. The World Shooting and Recreational Complex is located at 1 Main Event Lane in Sparta.

The site features premier shooting events including the American Trapshooting Association’s Grand American Championships. For additional information call 217-782-5707.

_**New health consultation released for Manners Park in Taylorville; 30-day public comment period underway, community event planned**_ **KEY POINTS FOR MEDIA:** * New health consultation report evaluates soil contamination at Manners Park in Taylorville, located near the Ameren CIPS Superfund site.

* Lead levels in soil at Field 1, a baseball field at the park, may have increased the blood lead level of players who used the field prior to 2023. Field 1 has been closed to the public since 2024. * The soil throughout the rest of Manners Park does not pose a health risk to people using the park for recreational purposes.

* A public comment period is underway, and a community event will be held to answer questions raised by the report. **SPRINGFIELD –**The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has announced the release of a new health consultation which evaluates soil contamination at Manners Park in Taylorville in Christian County, Illinois. The park is directly east of the Ameren CIPS Superfund site.

The release of the report marks the beginning of a 30-day public comment period about the information contained in the report. The report was requested by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) and prepared in collaboration with the federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). It evaluates potential exposures to the metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) found in soil at the park.

A manufactured gas plant operated at the Ameren CIPS Superfund site from 1892 to 1932, which contaminated soil and groundwater in the Site area with PAHs. Known contamination at the Site drove community concerns about possible soil contamination at nearby Manners Park. IDPH’s key findings include: * Concentrated areas of high metals were found at Manners Park Field 1 and near the park’s dining hall during environmental investigations.

While the source of the metals detected in park soil is unknown, the presence of metals is not believed to be related to the Ameren CIPS site, because such metals were not among the contaminants at the site. * Exposure to lead in soil at Manners Park Field 1 may have impacted the blood lead level of past summer league baseball players prior to 2023. A higher amount of lead in the blood can increase the risk for adverse health effects.

* PAHs in park soil were found to be near or below levels that would typically be expected in a community like Taylorville. This indicates the soil at the park was unlikely to have been impacted by a source of high PAHs, like coal tar. * Exposure to metals and PAHs in the soil throughout the rest of Manners Park does not pose a health risk to people using the park for recreational purposes.

* All park baseball fields other than Field 1 can resume normal use. IDPH recommends that people visiting the park avoid accessing fenced-off areas, as this is where elevated levels of lead have been found. People can visit the park without taking any other precautions.

IDPH encourages the Taylorville Park District to ensure that fence and gate locks placed at Field 1 and snow fencing near the park’s Dining Hall are properly maintained and in good working order. Additionally, IDPH recommends that the Taylorville Park District conduct additional testing of soil at and near Field 1 for further analysis of the potential lead levels in the soil there.

IDPH will review future available sampling data and prepare an additional report if necessary. A 30-day public comment period is now open, running until October 1, 2026. During this time, members of the public can submit comments or questions related to the health consultation.

IDPH will respond to all comments in an updated version of the report; commenters’ names will not be included. Comments may be submitted to DPH. Tox@illinois.

gov. Additionally, IDPH will host a public open house on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, from 4:30 to 6:30pm at the University of Illinois Extension Service office, 1120 N. Webster Street, Taylorville. During this informal gathering, the public will be able to speak with IDPH environmental health staffers and ask questions about the site.

A fact sheet summarizing the findings of the public health assessment can be found here. Additional information can also be found at Public Health Assessments and Health Consultations. **SPRINGFIELD –** Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site in Menard County will host the 45th Traditional Music Festival and Bluegrass Concerts Sept.

11-12. Bluegrass concerts will take place in the Kelso-Hollow Amphitheater from 6-10 p. m.

Friday, Sept. 11. Then on Saturday, Sept.

12, musicians from across the Midwest will gather at Lincoln’s New Salem, filling the campground and historic village with impromptu jam sessions from 10 a. m. to 4 p.

m. Historic site interpreters will present demonstrations and reenactments throughout the village. Musicians are welcome to participate in Saturday’s traditional music festivities in the historic village.

Only traditional, non-electric musical instruments are permitted. Those who enjoy live music and dancers are welcome. “Each year, the village comes to life with more than 100 musicians playing on porches, under trees and along the pathways.

This year is a significant milestone, marking 45 years of traditional music at New Salem,” **said Troy Gilmore, superintendent of Lincoln’s New Salem**. The festival is free and open to the public. In the event of rain, Friday and Saturday evening concerts will move indoors to the visitor center auditorium.

For additional information call 217-632-4017. To accommodate traveling musicians, the campground’s online reservation system will not accept reservations from Monday, Sept. 7, through Sunday, Sept.

13. All campsites will be available on a walk-in, first-come, first-served basis.

_**PFAS Compound Detected in Groundwater; System Owners/Operators, Private Well Owners, and all Residents are Encouraged to Reduce PFAS Exposure**_ **Springfield –** The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) is notifying the owners and operators of the Galesburg Community Water System (CWS), Abingdon CWS, East Galesburg CWS, Henderson CWS, Knoxville CWS, Windwood Water CWS and Little York CWS that there has been a detection of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), a Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) compound, in water samples collected by the Galesburg CWS, as part of the PFAS Initial Monitoring Period, which began in April 2026.

The Abingdon, East Galesburg, Henderson, Knoxville, Windwood Water, and Little York CWS purchase water from the Galesburg CWS. All of the systems are in Knox County except Little York, which is in Warren County. The samples identified PFOS at 15 and 4.

7 parts per trillion (ppt), which is above the Illinois Class I groundwater quality standard of 4 ppt. In April of 2025, these seven systems were also notified of a detection of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA).

“Illinois EPA was proactive in our efforts to address PFAS contamination in Illinois community water systems, which resulted in the adoption of state groundwater quality and drinking water standards among the most protective in the nation,” **said Illinois EPA Director James Jennings.

**“This notification both satisfies state law and serves as a reminder to all residents to reduce exposure to PFAS compounds, which can be found in everyday products and the environment. ” The 2009 Right-to-Know law requires owners and operators of CWSs to notify their customers when groundwater contamination poses a threat of exposure to the public above the Class I groundwater quality standards.

In 2025, Illinois adopted new groundwater quality standards for six PFAS, based on the most recent scientific information available. Those include PFOA, PFOS, hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid, also known as GenX (HFPO-DA), perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS), pefluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS).

In January 2026, Illinois also adopted amendments to Illinois drinking water regulations that are identical in substance to science-based Biden-era U.S. EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs/federal drinking water standards) for certain PFAS. CWSs were required to begin sampling for those PFAS in April 2026 and must comply with the federal MCLs for PFAS by April 2029.

PFAS have been used in a wide range of consumer products, industrial processes, and in some fire-fighting foams (called aqueous film-forming foam or AFFF) since the 1940s. This has resulted in the release of PFAS into the air, water, and soil. PFAS do not easily break down under natural conditions and are often referred to as “forever chemicals.

” PFAS are stable, persistent chemicals that bioaccumulate in blood and organs over time. As a result, all residents may be at risk from PFAS exposure. Current scientific literature indicates that people are primarily exposed to PFAS through the ingestion of food and water.

Everyone is encouraged to be proactive in addressing potential PFAS contamination, not only in drinking water, but through the other common routes of exposure. Ways to reduce exposure include: • Choose stainless steel, cast iron, or non-stick cookware that does not contain PFAS. • Avoid water repellents on clothing.

• Use personal care products without “PTFE” or “Fluoro” ingredients. • Use water filters designed to remove PFAS (NSF/ANSI 53 or 58 standards). The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) also encourages private well owners near the impacted water system to test their well water for PFAS or consider installing treatment, such as activated carbon filters, on drinking water faucets.

Private well owners who have health-related questions or require technical assistance can contact IDPH by phone at (217) 782-5830 or by email at dph. tox@Illinois. gov. Attached is a copy of the Public Health Notice being provided to the CWS and customers, which includes information on potential health effects, home water filter treatment options, and ways to minimize PFAS exposure from other sources.

The notice provided to CWS will be posted on the Illinois EPA website at: https://epa. illinois. gov/topics/drinking-water/public-water-users/notices.

html. More information regarding PFAS, including health effects and additional ways to reduce exposure, is available on the Illinois EPA PFAS webpage at https://epa. illinois.

gov/topics/water-quality/pfas. html. Additional information can be found on the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry website at: https://www.

atsdr. cdc. gov/pfas/.

The IDPH provides additional information on PFAS in drinking water at: https://dph. illinois. gov/topics-services/environmental-health-protection/private-water/fact-sheets/pfas-drinking-water.

html.

**Attachments:**Public Health Notices – English and Spanish _**Highlights include flight simulator, Operation Habitat and a drawing for a Route 66 sign**_ **SPRINGFIELD –**The Illinois Department of Transportation is inviting the public to join them at the Illinois State Fair, where fairgoers can stop by the agency’s tent to see a demonstration on roadside pollinator preservation practices, sign a snowplow blade, learn about Rebuild Illinois projects in their communities, play interactive games that reinforce safe driving practices and register to win a commemorative Route 66 sign.

“Our tent offers you several opportunities to learn about more about the work we are doing across the state to improve your communities,” **said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi**. “Stop by, ask questions, have some fun with our staff and find out more about how IDOT is working for you. ” * Find out how you can help reduce fatalities and injuries as part of the “It’s Not a Game” safety campaign.

* Test your skills in the sky with a flight simulator. * Enter a free drawing for a commemorative Route 66 sign. * See how the Rebuild Illinois capital program is investing in your towns and neighborhoods.

* Learn about Operation Habitat, IDOT’s program to create, preserve and protect areas for pollinators. The tent can be found on Brian Raney Avenue, north of the Village of Cultures. It will be open between 10 a.

m. and 6 p. m.

from Aug. 13 through Aug. 22.

Hours are 10 a. m. to 3 p.

m. on Sunday, Aug. 23, the fair’s final day.

For more information on the 2026 Illinois State Fair, visit statefair. illinois.

gov. * Amid Measles Outbreak in Douglas County, IDPH Urges Illinoisans to Get Vaccinated * Patriot Day Proclamation * SAMPLE AND SHOP LOCAL AT THE ILLINOIS PRODUCT EXPO * IDNR invites potential vendors to pre-bid meeting for concession operation at Moraine View State Park * IDNR invites potential vendors to pre-bid meeting for gift shop concession operation at World Shooting and Recreational Complex * New health consultation released for Manners Park in Taylorville; 30-day public comment period underway, community event planned * Lincoln’s New Salem to host 45th traditional music festival and bluegrass concerts Sept.

11-12 * Make sure to come to a complete stop… and connect with IDOT at the Illinois State Fair * Emergencies and Disasters * Traveler Information & Road Conditions [](https://www. facebook. com/GovPritzker)[](https://twitter.

com/GovPritzker)[](https://www. instagram. com/GovPritzker/) * Missing & Exploited Children