State Rep. Dan Ugaste
State Government: Agencies/Departments/Divisions | Elected State Legislators
Recent News About State Rep. Dan Ugaste
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International Anti-Corruption Day: Urgent Call for Ethics Reform in Illinois
Today, on December 9, 2023, the world observes International Anti-Corruption Day. This day holds particular significance in light of recent events, such as the ComEd Four Trials and the indictment of former House Speaker Michael Madigan. The urgency to address corruption and promote ethical practices has never been more apparent, especially within the Illinois General Assembly.In order to commemorate International Anti-Corruption Day, there is a pressing need for the Illinois General Assembly to take bold and decisive action by passing sweeping ethics reform. This reform...
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Hanukkah Begins at Sundown
Hanukkah, the important Jewish holiday, is set to begin this evening at sundown, marking the start of eight days and eight nights of celebrations. This festival holds great significance in the Jewish community and is observed with joy and reverence.As the sun sets, Jewish households worldwide will gather to kindle the first candle of the Hanukkah menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum. Each night, an additional candle is lit, symbolizing the miraculous oil that lasted for eight days in the ancient Temple in Jerusalem.This festival commemorates the victory of the...
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Thank You to Everyone Who Supported Rep. Ugaste’s Gift Cards For the Troops Holiday Drive
Thank you to everyone who supported and donated to our recent Gift Cards for the Troops Holiday Drive. The gift card donations that were received were used to purchase important items for holiday stockings as well as for care packages that will be shipped to troops across the globe. According to a recent statement, Rep. Ugaste expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community, saying, "I am incredibly grateful to everyone who donated to our Gift Cards for the Troops Holiday Drive. The generosity of our community will bring joy and comfort to our...
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Home Alone Filmed in Chicago
While many people are aware that the movie Planes, Trains, & Automobiles was filmed in Illinois, there is another beloved Christmas movie that was also shot in the Chicagoland area. Home Alone, a film by John Hughes, holds a special place in the hearts of many, bringing back happy memories and lots of laughs.One of the most iconic locations in the movie is the McAllister residence. Located in the north suburban town of Winnetka, this house has become a popular destination for fans of the film. The grand staircase and foyer, where Kevin famously yelled "Pizza!", were also...
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Stay Fire Safe This Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude. It is also a day that sees a significant increase in home cooking fires. According to statistics, Thanksgiving has more than three times the daily average for such incidents. With the kitchen being the heart of the home during this festive season, it is crucial to prioritize fire safety to ensure a joyful and accident-free celebration.As families gather to test family recipes, decorate cakes, and prepare the feast, it is essential to keep fire safety at the forefront of our minds. By following a few simple safety...
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Illinois Department on Aging Provides Senior Help Line for Information and Assistance
The Illinois Department on Aging has launched a Senior Help Line to provide information and assistance to seniors in the state. Seniors can call the helpline with any questions about the Department's programs and services.The Senior Help Line is designed to help seniors navigate the various programs offered by the Department on Aging. This includes the Community Care Program, which provides in-home care and adult day programs, as well as the home delivered meals program. The helpline can also assist seniors in locating a senior center in their community.In addition to...
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Former shopping malls adapt to changing marketplace in Illinois
Once thriving shopping malls in Illinois and across the nation are facing challenging times as online retailers and home delivery services gain popularity among shoppers. According to recent research, foot traffic and sales at shopping malls in the U.S. have increased from 2019 to 2022, indicating a potential resurgence in the industry. However, the number of malls has significantly decreased over the years, with an estimated 2,500 malls in the country in 1980, and now less than 700 remaining, which could further decline to just 150 in the next decade.In Illinois, several...
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Are There Mountains in Illinois?
Illinois, often associated with its prairies and flatlands, may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of mountains. However, contrary to popular belief, this Midwestern state offers a surprising range of elevated adventures. From ski resorts to hiking trails, Illinois provides exciting opportunities to explore the great outdoors from a higher vantage point.One notable destination for outdoor enthusiasts is the Fox River Trail. Stretching over 40 miles from Algonquin to Aurora, this trail offers a variety of activities for all seasons. With an elevation...
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Rep. Ugaste Hosts Holiday Gift Card Drive for U.S. Troops
State Representative Dan Ugaste (R-Geneva) is organizing a Holiday Gift Card Drive for U.S. troops this November. The gift cards, from retailers such as Amazon, Sam's Club, Costco, and Dollar Tree, will be collected at his district office in St. Charles. The initiative, called Operation Support Our Troops - America's Holiday Stockings, aims to bring some holiday cheer to the brave men and women who serve our nation."Our troops sacrifice so much for our nation, including being away from family during important holidays," said Rep. Ugaste. "A gift card can provide an...
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The Spirit of Giving This Thanksgiving
The Thanksgiving season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and giving back to those in need. Unfortunately, for the 1.2 million people in Illinois who face hunger, this time of year can be particularly challenging. Shockingly, over 300,000 of those affected are children. According to Feeding America, 1 in 11 people in Illinois face hunger, and 1 in 9 children go to bed hungry each night.In light of these sobering statistics, it is crucial that we come together as a community and extend a helping hand to those in need. There are several organizations in Illinois that...
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What to do if you are being impersonated on social media
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, with a significant portion of the global population using at least one platform. However, along with the benefits, there are also drawbacks to using social media, one of which is the growing problem of impersonation.Impersonation on social media refers to the act of someone pretending to be another individual or business by using their name, image, or other identifying elements. This fraudulent practice can have serious consequences and is on the rise. In fact, the number of reported cases of social media...
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Rep. Ugaste Urges Vote on Invest in Kids Permanency: “Let’s Get This Done”
In a passionate plea on the House floor, Representative Ugaste called for a vote to make the Invest in Kids program permanent in Illinois. This program has been instrumental in providing educational opportunities for thousands of students in the state.The Invest in Kids program offers a 75% tax credit to individuals and businesses who donate to Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs) that fund scholarships for children to attend qualifying non-public schools. Since its inception, over 9,000 students in Illinois have benefited from this program.Speaking in support of...
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Deadlines to Mail those Holiday Season Packages
The 2023 holiday shopping season is fast approaching, and it's crucial to know the important dates and deadlines for shipping packages to ensure they arrive on time for family celebrations. The United States Postal Service (USPS) has provided a comprehensive list of deadline dates for domestic, international, and military shipping destinations to guarantee the timely delivery of cards, letters, and packages by December 25.According to USPS, there will be no peak or demand surcharge this holiday season. For shipments within the lower 48 states (excluding Alaska and...
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State Representative Dan Ugaste Updates on Education, First Responders, Higher Education, Immigration, and Jobs
Illinois State Representative Dan Ugaste has released an update on various topics including the General Assembly, education, first responders, higher education, immigration, and jobs.In the General Assembly, preparations are underway for the second and final week of the fall 2023 veto session. The Illinois House of Representatives will reconvene on Tuesday, November 7 in Springfield. House Republicans are fighting to keep the popular "Invest in Kids" scholarship program alive, which provides indirect state assistance to those who donate money to Illinois private-school...
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8 Illinois Fall Adventures
Fall in Illinois is a magical time when the state's natural beauty and vibrant communities truly come alive. From stunning fall foliage to exciting harvest festivities, there are countless adventures waiting to be explored. Here are eight must-try experiences that capture the essence of an Illinois autumn.One of the most iconic sights in Illinois during fall is the breathtaking display of colors as the leaves change. As the treetops transform into a kaleidoscope of oranges, yellows, browns, and reds, it's the perfect time to embark on a scenic road trip across the state....
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Making Halloween Inclusive for Kids with Disabilities
Halloween is a highly anticipated night for children, filled with costumes, candy, and excitement. However, for children on the autism spectrum or with disabilities, Halloween can present unique challenges. Sensory overload from scary sounds and decorations, uncomfortable costumes, and venturing out at night can be overwhelming for these children. In order to ensure that Halloween is an enjoyable experience for everyone, there are several strategies and resources available.Autism Speaks provides a valuable tool called "All About Halloween," a personalized teaching story...
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Halloween Safety Tips: Ensuring a Safe and Happy Holiday
As Halloween approaches, it is important to prioritize safety, especially when it comes to children and their costumes. The National Safety Council (NSC) has provided valuable insights to help make this holiday a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.One of the key aspects of costume safety is ensuring that all costumes, wigs, and accessories are fire-resistant. This precautionary measure can significantly reduce the risk of accidents or injuries. Additionally, enhancing visibility is crucial, especially when children are out after dark. The NSC suggests...
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Halloween Fire Safety: Ensuring a Fun and Fire Safe Holiday
As Halloween approaches, it's important to remember that while the holiday is filled with fun and spooky activities, it can also pose some serious fire safety hazards. To ensure a fun and fire safe holiday, it is crucial to take simple precautions and be aware of potential risks.One of the key fire safety tips during Halloween is to use alternative lighting sources for jack-o-lanterns and other decorations. "Use glow sticks or battery-operated candles for jack-o-lanterns and other Halloween decorations," advises the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). This...
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Rep. Dan Ugaste: Here’s how to combat opportunity deserts in Illinois
Illinois Democrats have long been focused on addressing food deserts, but it is essential to recognize that these are just a symptom of a larger problem: opportunity deserts. A recent study by WalletHub ranked Illinois last in racial economic equity, highlighting the disproportionate impact on minority families. These areas, where job opportunities are scarce and businesses are hesitant to invest, are a cancer that can spread throughout the state.State Representative Dan Ugaste emphasizes that combating opportunity deserts requires three key elements: access to quality...
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Back to Veto Session in Springfield
This week, the General Assembly is returning to Springfield for the fall veto session. With sessions scheduled for October 24th, 25th, and 26th, it is an important time for lawmakers to address pending issues and work towards finding solutions for the state of Illinois.During this session, legislators will be focusing on various matters that require their attention. One of the key resources available to the public to stay updated on the proceedings is the Daily House Calendar. This calendar provides a comprehensive overview of the legislative schedule, including bill...