Dear Friend,

With Thanksgiving Day just around the corner, this is the time of year that we are reminded of the many blessings in our lives.

Personally, there is so much to give thanks for this year. I'm the father of two sons who continue make me proud each-and-every day. I am blessed to be surrounded by the love of family and encouragement of friends. Beyond that, I have had the privilege of serving the people and businesses of the 55th Senate District for another year.

I am also so thankful to the men and women of our military and our communities' first responders for their endless sacrifices and continued service. As you gather with your loved ones this holiday weekend, please remember those who are not celebrating with their families and friends because they are working, protecting and sacrificing.

From my family to yours, God bless and have a happy Thanksgiving!

Sincerely,

Dale Righter
State Senator, 55th Senate



ISP steps up efforts to ensure safe holidays on Illinois roads

With the holidays around the corner, the Illinois State Police (ISP) wants to remind drivers to exercise extra caution to arrive safely at their destination.  The ISP will be using a combination of enforcement mechanisms to help reduce serious crashes.  They will be highly visible on the interstates and heavily-traveled state routes and will be aggressively enforcing the “Fatal Four” violations: speeding, DUI, distracted driving and seat belt violations.   

Drivers are asked to do their part for travel safety, by simply keeping their eyes on the road, watching their speed, buckling their seat belts, and refraining from driving after consuming alcoholic beverages.

In addition, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is joining the ISP to remind motorists to Click It or Ticket.  The Click It or Ticket campaign officially started Nov. 22 and will end Dec. 2.  The goal is to reduce motor vehicle crashes that result in injuries and traffic fatalities.  The stepped-up patrols and seat belt enforcement zones will be conducted during the holiday season throughout the state.

Only you can prevent turkey fires: safety information for holiday cooking

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) data, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. On average, 166,100 home fires, per year, involve cooking equipment. Thanksgiving Day is the leading day for home fires involving cooking equipment.

The Illinois Fire Marshal has offered tips to keep in mind when preparing food, not just during the holiday season but all year. Check it out here.