SenWilliePreston

Today we salute the individuals who have bravely served our county. Their unwavering commitment to the safety and freedom of our citizens is admirable. I encourage you to thank a veteran for their service, and remember to honor these heroes not just today, but every day.

This Veterans Small Business Week, we honor the service, dedication and entrepreneurial spirit of our nation’s veterans. Thank you for continuing to serve our communities through innovation and leadership.

Need help putting food on your table for Thanksgiving? In partnership with Walner Law, I am holding my annual turkey giveaway at 9 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 22 at BJ’s Market & Bakery, which is located at 1156 W. 79th St. in Chicago. Come get your turkey while supplies last!

Wishing a Happy Diwali to all those celebrating in Illinois and around the globe. May you have a blessed, healthy and prosperous Diwali!

It’s National Veterans and Military Families Month, a time to recognize and appreciate the brave men and women who have served our nation, as well as the families who support them. Let’s honor their sacrifices and continue to support our military heroes and their loved ones.

Lung cancer has the most cancer-related deaths in the U.S. This year alone, nearly 230,000 individuals were diagnosed with this disease, and most of those affected won’t show symptoms until the cancer is advanced. Visit ow.ly/6wZb50C9DP2 to learn how to lower your risk.

November is Native American Heritage Month. Join me in paying tribute to the rich ancestry, traditions and continuing cultures of America's indigenous people. Let’s work together to ensure their voices are heard and their contributions to our nation are celebrated.

I was honored to receive @TMAInfo’s Statesman of Steel Award! I have fought to increase opportunities for young adults in our communities to work in the trades, and I will continue to do so.

“Every day, more Illinois residents are unable to pay their rising energy bills, having to sacrifice another necessity to keep their lights on.” Learn more about the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program at tinyurl.com/3u4fyaaf.

I am introducing legislation to compel Chicago to allow the video gaming terminals that were legalized over nine months ago but are being stalled by a lack of licensing. In a recent Chicago Tribune op-ed, I lay out the laws' rationale. Find out more at tinyurl.com/2592yfzs.

“The Illinois Grocery Initiative is a crucial program for helping our communities invest in improving residents’ lives. Increasing access to fresh, healthy food saves residents time and money.” Learn more about the Illinois Grocery Initiative grants at tinyurl.com/5e8vwea2.

Helping those in need can come in many shapes and sizes, and I was proud to provide the Wallace Chance Center with $1.5 million to continue offering community services. Whatever barriers residents face, the Wallace Chance Center assists them in making the most of opportunities.

As we get further into a digital age, protecting our history is essential. That is why I was pleased to bring $1.5 million in funding to the Pike House Foundation for the protection and preservation of the historic Eugene S. Pike House in Chicago.

Education is essential to the success of our children. That is why I secured $4.125 million in funding to help @LEARNCharters continue offering tuition-free public education to children throughout the district I represent and all of Illinois.

“Any meaningful effort to better protect children online is a step in the right direction, but it is only a starting point.” Find out more about social media safeguards at tinyurl.com/2jpjmuzj.

“I’m proud to see this investment in our community, and I’ll keep fighting for the resources our libraries and literacy programs need to serve every family in the Sweet 16th District.” Learn more about the Touch Gift Foundation’s literacy grant at tinyurl.com/yz8r98up.

“The severe storms that recently came through our area left significant damage, and our communities are still picking up the pieces. Residents and businesses deserve support in this tough time.” Learn more about storm recovery assistance at tinyurl.com/4jkdytnb.

I brought home $2 million in funding for Black Fire Brigade to train and mentor Black firefighters. Increasing diversity in firefighting is vital, and the Black Fire Brigade helps make that happen.

Want to discuss issues you are facing while eating tasty seafood? Attend my Fish Fry Town Hall from 5-7 p.m. tomorrow at LEARN Charter Elementary School, located at 1700 W. 83rd St. in Chicago. I hope to see you there! Learn more about the event at tinyurl.com/se5evtus.

I released a statement about the damage caused by the destructive storms that have recently pummeled much of Chicago. See the statement at tinyurl.com/mrrjb9w4.