Community News
Manar works with young cancer survivor to pass law
Senator Manar with Zoe and Jennifer Pramuk in Senate Transportation Committee.
SPRINGFIELD – A new license plate aimed at raising money for cancer research will soon be made available after the governor signed into law a measure creating the Curing Childhood Cancer license plate earlier this week.
The measure, sponsored by State Senator Andy Manar (D–Bunker Hill), was initiated by a local Decatur family whose daughter, 8-year-old Zoe Pramuk, was diagnosed with acute lymphatic leukemia in 2010. Zoe finished two years and three months of intense chemotherapy treatment in December 2012 and is now cancer-free.
“When I met Zoe and her family for the first time, I was immediately inspired by Zoe’s energy and positive outlook,” Manar said. “They worked to turn this unfortunate ailment into something positive that will help other families affected by cancer.”
Zoe and her parents, Chad and Jennifer Pramuk, worked with Senator Manar to get the legislation approved by both the House and Senate and ultimately, signed into law by the governor. Jennifer and Zoe joined Senator Manar to testify in favor of the bill to the Senate Transportation Committee back in May.
“Her smile can certainly light up a room,” Manar said. “It was definitely the highlight of my day, and I would imagine it was for my colleagues as well.”
As reported by the Decatur Herald and Review, Zoe’s mother and father came up with the idea for the license plate because they know how important cancer research was to Zoe’s successful treatment.
“It’s our way of trying to give back, giving back to all of the researchers and scientists and doctors who worked on this through the years and made progress,” her mom says. “You know, if Zoe was diagnosed in the ’40s, ’50s or ’60s, she would not be alive. Someone has to fund all that research.”
The proceeds from the license plates will go toward the Children’s Oncology Group, where Zoe got her treatments, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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Mt. Olive, IL — The vibrant community of Mt. Olive is proud to host the 4th Annual International Mother Jones Festival on Sunday, May 4th, celebrating the life and legacy of the legendary labor leader and activist, Mother Jones. The festival runs from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature a variety of live music, engaging programs, and historic tours, culminating in a special tribute at Union Miners’ Cemetery, where Mother Jones is laid to rest.
Highlights of the Festival Include:
- Live Music: Enjoy performances by Casting Runes, Wildflower Conspiracy, and Piasa Canyon.
- Family Activities: Kids and the young at heart can participate in a magic and medicine show by Dr. Longhair, as well as a hands-on shoe-making activity inspired by Mother Jones’ famous footwear used in her miners’ strikes.
- Historical Reenactments: Loretta Williams, the only actress to portray Mother Jones in both her native Ireland (City Cork) and at her final resting place, will perform a special program at the library, bringing Jones’ story to life for audiences of all ages.
Special Events & Tours:
- A shuttle bus will be available to transport visitors between downtown and Union Miners’ Cemetery.
- Guided tours will be offered by docents at the cemetery and the Friends of Mother Jones Museum, providing insight into her life and enduring impact.
Food & Refreshments:
Kazoo Coffee will serve their signature Hell Raiser blend—created in honor of Mother Jones—along with B&K Bakery cookies, as well as a variety of food and beverages to keep festival-goers energized.
In Case of Weather Changes:
All downtown activities will relocate indoors to City Hall and the library, ensuring the celebration continues rain or shine.
Come celebrate the spirit of activism, history, and community at this meaningful event honoring one of America’s most influential labor leaders. Everyone is welcome to join the festivities!
For more information, contact the Mother Jones Museum at 618-659-8759 or email friendsofmotherjonesmuseum@gmail.com.
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The Friends of the Library are excited to invite the community to an exclusive “Snap-On Jewelry” demonstration hosted by jewelry artist Jodi Flack. The event will take place on Monday, May 5th, at 6 p.m. in the Gillespie Public Library.
During this engaging program, Jodi will showcase her beautiful collection of snap-on jewelry, featuring versatile necklaces and bracelets with interchangeable pendants. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the various styles and options available, making it a perfect occasion to find a special gift or add a unique piece to their jewelry collection.
Jewelry will be available for purchase at the event, making it an ideal opportunity to find a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift or a special treat for yourself.
Don’t miss this chance to discover stylish, customizable jewelry and support the Friends of the Library. All are welcome!
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The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that a 14-mile patching and resurfacing project on Interstate 55 from Litchfield to the Macoupin/Madison County line begins Monday, April 21. Work is expected to be completed by the end of September.
Additionally, ramps for Litchfield (exit 52), Mount Olive (exit 44) and Staunton (exit 41) will be resurfaced. Most of the work is expected to take place between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. Sunday nights through Friday mornings.
Lane closures are expected, and message boards will be used to direct traffic through the work zones. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Benefits of this project include a smoother driving surface.
To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.
