BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Better Government Association - ECPv6.16.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Better Government Association X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.bettergov.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Better Government Association REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19690427T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19691026T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19700426T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19701025T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19710425T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19711031T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT 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TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20120311T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20121104T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20130310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20131103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20140309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20141102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20150308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20151101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20160313T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20161106T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20170312T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20171105T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20180311T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20181104T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20190310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20191103T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180125T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180125T000000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212921Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212921Z UID:7555-1516838400-1516838400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: City Bureau DESCRIPTION:About eighty Chicago residents from the South Side learned they can file Freedom of Information Act requests anonymously during a watchdog training session hosted jointly by the Better Government Association and City Bureau. \nCity Bureau is a nonprofit civic journalism lab based on Chicago’s South Side known for its public newsrooms. The BGA and City Bureau used that public newsroom to host a special citizen watchdog training session.  \nThe BGA’s Civic Engagement Coordinator\, Annum Haider\, opened the program by delivering “Ten tips on how to be a Watchdog.” These included pointers on how to effectively track government in communities and neighborhoods\, how to monitor questionable behavior\, and how to conduct relevant research. BGA Engagement Editor Mia Sato live-tweeted the entire event\, while Marketing Manager Starlyn Matheny was the official photographer of the night.   \nThe BGA’s outside counsel\, Matt Topic\, and his associate\, Josh Burday\, began the heart of the presentation by delving straight into the Illinois Freedom of Information Act—its various components and provisions. They also spoke about the Open Meetings Act. Topic walked the audience through Illinois’ FOIA statute\, dissected each provision and took citizens through the practical steps of learning who handles FOIA requests in various government offices\, how best to write a request\, and what to expect from responding governments.  \nAudience members were particularly interested in the anonymity with which they could file their FOIA requests. Even those with experience filing FOIA’s were surprised to learn that they are not required to disclose their names when filing a FOIA request. While learning about the various bodies exempt from FOIA\, some audience members said they were dismayed to learn they could not FOIA their aldermen. But many of them were interested to learn they can still FOIA employees who work for their Aldermen — a point raised by BGA Policy Manager\, Rachel Levin. Matt Topic also noted residents can FOIA City Council.  \nThose who make FOIA requests after attending BGA Watchdog Training sessions are encouraged to share their FOIA experiences with the BGA and to send follow-up questions. \nWatchdog Trainings are open to the public\, free of charge\, and can be conducted at various Illinois locations. To see the schedule for Watchdog Trainings\, check the BGA events page on our website. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-city-bureau/ CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/IMG_2543-2-copy.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20171023T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171023T180000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212456Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212657Z UID:7527-1508781600-1508781600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Bloomington-Normal DESCRIPTION:The Better Government Association held a watchdog training in collaboration with the League of Women Voters\, McLean County. Attendees included concerned citizens from Bloomington\, Normal\, and surrounding communities of Shirley\, Twin Grove\, and Towanda. \nThe BGA’s Civic Engagement Coordinator\, Annum Haider\, opened the program by delivering “Ten tips on how to be a Watchdog.” This included pointers on how to observe government in communities and neighborhoods\, how to monitor questionable behavior\, and how to conduct relevant research. \n \nBGA Attorney Matt Topic then talked in depth about the Illinois Freedom of Information Act's components and provisions. He also spoke about the Open Meetings Act. \nTopic walked the audience through Illinois’ FOIA statute\, dissected each provision and took citizens through the practical steps of learning who handles FOIA requests in various offices\, how best to write a request\, and what to expect from responding governments. Audience members were particularly interested in the types of documents redacted by government organizations and what do in case their FOIA request was denied. \nAttendees who make FOIA requests after attending BGA Watchdog Training sessions are encouraged to share their FOIA experiences with the BGA and to send follow-up questions. \nWatchdog Trainings are open to the public\, free of charge\, and can be conducted at various Illinois locations. To see the schedule for Watchdog Trainings\, check the BGA events page on our website. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-bloomington-normal/ LOCATION:First Presbyterian Church\, 2000 East College Avenue\, Normal\, 61761 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170921T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170921T190000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212456Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212851Z UID:7528-1506020400-1506020400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: DeKalb DESCRIPTION:More than one hundred members of the DeKalb area community learned what it takes to be a good watchdog at a training session held at Northern Illinois University (NIU). The event was sponsored by the Better Government Association in collaboration with the NIU Department of Communication and the Northern Illinois Newspaper Association (NINA). \nJason Akst\, an award-winning journalist and instructor at NIU\, opened the event\, which was attended by NIU students\, professors\, NINA members\, and concerned citizens. The BGA’s Civic Engagement Coordinator\, Annum Haider then discussed how to be an effective watchdog\, including how to observe government in communities and neighborhoods\, how to monitor questionable behavior\, and how to conduct relevant research. \nBGA Attorney Matt Topic then talked in depth about the Illinois Freedom of Information Act's components and provisions. He also took citizens through the practical steps of learning who handles FOIA requests in various offices\, how best to write a request and what to expect from responding governments. \nThe audience came prepared with a host of questions for Topic\, most attendees having already filed three to four FOIA requests in the recent past. Several audience members indicated they understood the importance of FOIA\, especially after several controversies in the DeKalb community\, including the recent severance package received by NIU’s ex-president\, Doug Baker. \nTopic addressed concerns raised by FOIA beginners\, as well as those posed by journalism students and active citizens of the DeKalb community. \nAttendees who make FOIA requests after attending BGA Watchdog Training sessions are encouraged to share their FOIA experiences with the BGA and to send follow-up questions. NIU also granted student attendees credit for attending the event. \nWatchdog Trainings are open to the public\, free of charge\, and can be conducted at various Illinois locations. To see the schedule for Watchdog Trainings\, check the BGA events page on our website. \nFor further information or questions about Watchdog Training\, contact Annum Haider at ahaider@bettergov.org. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-dekalb/ LOCATION:Northern Illinois University\, Cole Hall\, Room 100\, 1425 Lincoln Hwy\, DeKalb\, 60115 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170809T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170809T000000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212837Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212837Z UID:7538-1502236800-1502236800@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Sulzer Library\, Chicago DESCRIPTION:Chicagoans learned how to use the Freedom of Information Act to watch their governments at a training session sponsored by the Better Government Association in partnership with the League of Women Voters of Chicago at the Conrad Sulzer Regional Library. \nBGA Attorney Matt Topic talked in depth about the Illinois FOIA law’s components and provisions as well as took citizens through the practical steps of learning who handles FOIA requests in various offices\, how best to write a request and what to expect from responding governments. \n \nThe Watchdog Training began with a 10-minute introduction on how to be a good-government watchdog delivered by the BGA’s Civic Engagement Coordinator\, Annum Haider. Attendees were given several BGA tips on how to observe government in their communities and neighborhoods\, how to monitor questionable behavior\, and how to conduct relevant research. \nWhile some attendees were new to the land of FOIA\, others came prepared with questions for Topic and shared their concerns with the BGA staff. Several citizens asked questions about getting information about specific government contracts and vendors\, whether judges are subject to FOIA\, how you can determine whether you’ve gotten all the documentation that exists on a certain topic and more. \nAttendees who make FOIA requests after attending BGA Watchdog Training sessions are encouraged to share their FOIA experiences with the BGA and to send follow-up questions. \nWatchdog Trainings are open to the public\, free of charge\, and can be conducted at various Illinois locations. To view the schedule for our Watchdog Trainings\, check the BGA events page on our website at http://www.bettergov.org/events. \nFor further information or questions about Watchdog Training\, contact Annum Haider at ahaider@bettergov.org. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-sulzer-library-chicago/ LOCATION:Sulzer Library CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170223T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170223T190000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212851Z UID:7544-1487876400-1487876400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Elmhurst DESCRIPTION:UPDATE: This event is now sold out. \nBGA Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening in your community. In this training\, experts will help you understand government\, the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. \nThis training is free and open to the public. \nFor more information\, call Stephanie Simon at (312) 821-9042 or email at ssimon@bettergov.org. \nRSVP Now \nSpecial thanks to the McCormick Foundation for supporting BGA civic engagement activities.\n       \n  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-elmhurst/ LOCATION:Elmhurst College\, 190 S. Prospect Ave.\, Elmhurst\, 60126 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdogthisone.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20150121T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20150121T160000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T211654Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211654Z UID:7507-1421856000-1421856000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: DePaul University DESCRIPTION:The BGA will host the next Citizen Watchdog Training at DePaul University from 4:00pm-5:30pm. \n \nBGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \nExpert presenters from the BGA’s outside counsel will teach you all you need to know to keep an eye on your local government. Members of the BGA Investigative Unit also will be there. \nThis event is free and open to the public. For more information\, call Addie Epstein at (312) 386-9202. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-depaul-university/ LOCATION:DePaul University\, 14 E Jackson Blvd\, Room 1128\, Chicago\, 60604 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140916T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140916T183000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212054Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212054Z UID:7516-1410892200-1410892200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Elgin DESCRIPTION:The BGA will host the next Citizen Watchdog Training at Judson University in Elgin on Sept. 16 at 6:30 p.m. \n \nBGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \nExpert presenters from the BGA’s outside counsel will teach you all you need to know to keep an eye on your local government. Members of the BGA Investigative Unit also will be there. \nThis event is free and open to the public. For more information\, call Stephanie Simon at 312-821-9042. \n\nRead More:BGA offers FOIA training session Sept. 16 at Judson(The Courier-News) URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-elgin/ LOCATION:Eagle Lounge\, Lindner Tower\, Judson University\, 1151 N. State St.\, Elgin\, 60123 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140619T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140619T183000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T210629Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211430Z UID:7478-1403202600-1403202600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Skokie DESCRIPTION:The BGA will host the next Citizen Watchdog Training at National Louis University’s Skokie campus. \n \nBGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \nExpert presenters from the BGA’s outside counsel will teach you all you need to know to keep an eye on your local government. Members of the BGA Investigative Unit also will be there. \nThis event is free and open to the public. For more information\, call Stephanie Simon at 312-821-9042. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-skokie/ LOCATION:National Louis University\, 5202 Old Orchard Rd #300\, Skokie\, 60077 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/SkokieWatchdogJune19.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140521T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140521T183000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T210629Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211430Z UID:7479-1400697000-1400697000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Hyde Park DESCRIPTION:The BGA will host the next Citizen Watchdog Training in Hyde Park with the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics. \nBGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \nExpert presenters from the BGA’s outside counsel will teach you all you need to know to keep an eye on your local government. Members of the BGA Investigative Unit also will be there. Dinner will be provided starting at 6:15 p.m. \nThis event is free and open to the public. SPACE IS LIMITED–PLEASE RSVP. \nFor more information\, call Stephanie Simon at 312-821-9042. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-hyde-park/ LOCATION:University of Chicago Institute of Politics\, 5707 S. Woodlawn Ave.\, Chicago\, 60637 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140325T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140325T183000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T210829Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210829Z UID:7483-1395772200-1395772200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Loop DESCRIPTION:The BGA will host the next Citizen Watchdog Training in the Loop at DePaul University’s College of Communication. \nBGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \nExpert presenters from Kirkland & Ellis LLP will teach you all you need to know to keep an eye on your local government. Members of the BGA Investigative Unit also will be there. \nThis event is free and open to the public. For more information\, call Stephanie Simon at 312-821-9042. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-loop/ LOCATION:DePaul University College of Communication\, 14 E. Jackson Blvd.\, Chicago\, 60601 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/LoopWatchdogTraining2014.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20131021T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20131021T183000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T210630Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210630Z UID:7480-1382380200-1382380200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Orland Park DESCRIPTION:The BGA will host the next Citizen Watchdog Training in Orland Park.  \nBGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \nExpert presenters from Kirkland & Ellis LLP will teach you all you need to know to keep an eye on your local government. Members of the BGA Investigative Unit also will be there. \nThis event is free and open to the public. For more information\, call Stephanie Simon at 312-821-9042. \nThe Orland Park Public Library is not a sponsor of this organization or program. \n>> SEE THE PHOTOS URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-orland-park/ LOCATION:Orland Park Public Library\, 14921 S. Ravinia Ave.\, Orland Park\, 60462 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/OrlandParkWatchdog2013.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20130625T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20130625T183000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T210029Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210029Z UID:7465-1372185000-1372185000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Bridgeport DESCRIPTION: \n\nThe BGA will host the next Citizen Watchdog Training in Bridgeport. This will be a shorter but more interactive\, in-depth training. \n  \nBGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \n  \nExpert presenters from Kirkland & Ellis LLPwill teach you all you need to know to keep an eye on your local government. Members of the BGA Investigative Unit will also be there. \n\n \n  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-bridgeport/ LOCATION:Benton House\, 3034 S Gratten Ave.\, Chicago\, 60608 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20130307T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20130307T183000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T211415Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211415Z UID:7489-1362681000-1362681000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Lakeview DESCRIPTION: \n\nThe BGA will host the next Citizen Watchdog Training in Lakeview. \nBGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and report on what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois.  \nExpert presenters from the Illinois Attorney General’s Public Access Bureau and Kirkland & Ellis LLPwill teach you all you need to know to keep an eye on your local government. Members of the BGA Investigative Unit will also be there. \n  \n\n  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-lakeview/ LOCATION:Second Unitarian Church\, 656 West Barry Ave.\, Chicago\, 60657 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20121025T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20121025T190000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T210629Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210629Z UID:7476-1351191600-1351191600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Naperville DESCRIPTION:Are you sick of fraud and corruption? Are you ready to do something about it? Become a watchdog! BGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and report on what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \nRSVP: http://napervillewatchdog.eventbrite.com/ \nWhere: DePaul University\, Naperville Campus\, Room 110 \n150 E. Warrenville Rd. \nNaperville\, IL 60563 \nWhen: Thursday\, Oct. 25\, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. \nThis event is free and open to the public. \nFor more information\, please contact Stephanie Simon at 312-821-9042 or ssimon@bettergov.org. \nRSVP: http://napervillewatchdog.eventbrite.com/ URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-naperville/ LOCATION:DePaul University\, 150 E. Warrenville Rd\, Naperville\, 60563 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120902T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120902T190000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T210429Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210429Z UID:7474-1346612400-1346612400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Lake County DESCRIPTION:RSVP: http://lakecountywatchdog.eventbrite.com/ \nWhere: Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science\, Health Science Building\, Room 1.702 \n3333 N. Green Bay Rd. \nNorth Chicago\, IL 60088 \n  \n  \nWhen: Thursday\, Sept. 20\, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. \nThis event is free and open to the public. \nFor more information\, please contact Stephanie Simon at 312-821-9042 or ssimon@bettergov.org. \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \nRSVP: http://lakecountywatchdog.eventbrite.com/ URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-lake-county/ LOCATION:Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science\, Health Science Building\, Room 1.702\, 3333 N. Green Bay Rd.\, North Chicago\, 60088 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120626T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120626T190000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T210429Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210429Z UID:7472-1340737200-1340737200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: DuPage County DESCRIPTION:BGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and report on what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois.  \nFor more information\, please contact Barb Macholz at 312-821-9025 or bmacholz@bettergov.org. Space is limited\, please RSVP here. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-dupage-county/ LOCATION:National-Louis University – Lisle Campus\, Public Forum Room\, 850 Warrenville Rd\, Lisle\, 60532 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120223T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120223T190000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T205814Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205814Z UID:7455-1330023600-1330023600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: South Side DESCRIPTION:BGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and report on what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois.  \nSpace is limited\, please RSVP. For more information\, please contact Barb Macholz at 312-821-9025 or bmacholz@bettergov.org URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-south-side/ LOCATION:Saint Xavier University – Warde Academic Center\, McGuire Hall – 3700 W 103rd St\, Chicago\, 60655 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20111207T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20111207T183000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T205629Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205629Z UID:7441-1323282600-1323282600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Maywood DESCRIPTION:BGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and report on what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \nSpace is limited\, please RSVP. For more information\, please contact Barb Macholz at 312-821-9025 or bmacholz@bettergov.org URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-maywood/ LOCATION:Rock of Ages Baptist Church\, 1405 Madison St\, Maywood\, 60153 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20111012T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20111012T180000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T205630Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205630Z UID:7442-1318442400-1318442400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Union League/Downtown DESCRIPTION:BGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and report on what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \nPlease note: the Union League Club of Chicago maintains a strict ‘business casual’ dress code (i.e.\, no jeans/denim).\n \nSpace is limited\, please RSVP. For more information\, please contact Barb Macholz at 312-821-9025 or bmacholz@bettergov.org \n  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-union-league-downtown/ LOCATION:Union League Club of Chicago\, 65 W Jackson Blvd
Room 710\, Chicago\, 60603 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20110803T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20110803T180000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T205800Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205800Z UID:7450-1312394400-1312394400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:BGA Citizen Watchdog Training - River Forest/Oak Park DESCRIPTION:BGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and report on what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \nSpace is limited\, please RSVP. For more information\, please contact Barb Macholz at 312-821-9025 or bmacholz@bettergov.org \n(Parking garage entrance on Bonnie Brae Place) \nKoehneke Community Center in the Oak Park Room URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/bga-citizen-watchdog-training-river-forest-oak-park/ LOCATION:Concordia University Chicago\, 7400 August Street\, River Forest\, 60305 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20110623T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20110623T000000 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T205813Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205813Z UID:7451-1308787200-1308787200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:BGA Citizen Watchdog Training - Pilsen DESCRIPTION:BGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and report on what’s happening in your community. Attend a Watchdog Training and learn the ins and outs of the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Learn more about how the BGA keeps an eye on government throughout the state of Illinois. \n  \nContact # 847-699-0300 URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/bga-citizen-watchdog-training-pilsen/ LOCATION:1 S Hwy\, 5th Floor\, Park Ridge\, 60608 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212921Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212921Z UID:7551-0-0@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Eastern Illinois University DESCRIPTION:This training is in collaboration with Eastern Illinois University.  It is free and open to the public. \nFor more information\, call Annum Haider at (312) 821-9031 or email at ahaider@bettergov.org. \nSpecial thanks to the McCormick Foundation for supporting BGA civic engagement programming. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-eastern-illinois-university/ LOCATION:Buzzard Hall Auditorium\, Eastern Illinois University\, 600 Lincoln Ave\, Charleston\, 61920 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212921Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212921Z UID:7553-0-0@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Recap: Watchdog Training Rock Island DESCRIPTION:The Better Government Association held a watchdog training in collaboration with The Dispatch Argus in Rock Island County. The event was held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center. \nThe audience—consisting of over 70 individuals—was a dynamic mix of public officials\, journalists\, journalism students\, real estate developers\, and concerned citizens from across the Quad Cities who all came prepared with a host of questions about government and transparency for our presenters. \nThe BGA’s Civic Engagement and Research Analyst\, Annum Haider\, opened the program and welcomed audience members to the training. BGA First-Amendment attorney Matt Topic then talked in depth about the Illinois Freedom of Information Act’s components and provisions. \nTopic walked the audience through Illinois’ FOIA statute\, dissected each provision and took citizens through the practical steps of learning who handles FOIA requests in various offices\, how best to write a request\, and what to expect from responding governments. Audience members were particularly interested in filing requests with anonymity and the many exemptions officials use to deny FOIA requests. \nAttendees who make FOIA requests after attending BGA Watchdog Training sessions are encouraged to share their FOIA experiences with the BGA and to send follow-up questions. \nWatchdog Trainings are open to the public\, free of charge\, and can be conducted at various Illinois locations. To see the schedule for Watchdog Trainings\, check the BGA events page on our website. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/recap-watchdog-training-rock-island/ LOCATION:Martin Luther King\, Jr. Community Center\, 630 Martin Luther King Drive\, Rock Island\, 61201 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event_0.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212921Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212921Z UID:7554-0-0@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Indivisible Chicago\, Northwest Chapter DESCRIPTION:The Better Government Association held a watchdog training in collaboration with Indivisible\, Northwest Chapter in Old Irving Park\, Chicago. The event was an intimate gathering of concerned citizens from the neighborhood who came prepared with a host of questions about government and transparency for our presenters. \nThe BGA’s Civic Engagement Coordinator\, Annum Haider\, opened the program by delivering “Ten tips on how to be a Watchdog.” This included pointers on how to observe government in communities and neighborhoods\, how to monitor questionable behavior\, and how to conduct relevant research. \nBGA Attorney Matt Topic then talked in depth about the Illinois Freedom of Information Act's components and provisions. \nTopic walked the audience through Illinois’ FOIA statute\, dissected each provision and took citizens through the practical steps of learning who handles FOIA requests in various offices\, how best to write a request\, and what to expect from responding governments. Audience members were particularly interested in filing requests with anonymity and the many exemptions officials use to deny FOIA requests. \nAttendees who make FOIA requests after attending BGA Watchdog Training sessions are encouraged to share their FOIA experiences with the BGA and to send follow-up questions. \nWatchdog Trainings are open to the public\, free of charge\, and can be conducted at various Illinois locations. To see the schedule for Watchdog Trainings\, check the BGA events page on our website. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-indivisible-chicago-northwest-chapter/ LOCATION:3857 N Kostner Ave\, Chicago\, 60641 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event_0.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212906Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212906Z UID:7550-0-0@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Arlington Heights DESCRIPTION:This training is in collaboration with the League of Women Voters\, Arlington Heights.  It is free and open to the public. \nFor more information\, call Annum Haider at (312) 821-9031 or email at ahaider@bettergov.org. \nSpecial thanks to the McCormick Foundation for supporting BGA civic engagement programming. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-arlington-heights/ LOCATION:Mount Prospect Public Library\, 10 S. Emerson Street\, Prospect\, 60056 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event_0.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212837Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212837Z UID:7537-0-0@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training | Depaul University DESCRIPTION:UPDATE: This event is sold out. \nBGA Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening in your community. In this training\, experts will help you understand government\, the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. \nThis training is free and open to the public. \nFor more information\, call Stephanie Simon at (312) 821-9042 or email at ssimon@bettergov.org. \nRSVP Now \nSpecial thanks to the McCormick Foundation for supporting BGA civic engagement activities.\n           \n  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-depaul-university-2/ LOCATION:DePaul University\, 14 E. Jackson\, Chicago\, 60604 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212657Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212657Z UID:7531-0-0@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training: Urbana DESCRIPTION:Dozens of watchdogs from the Urbana-Champaign area joined the BGA and local news organizations for a full tutorial on the Freedom of Information Act—one of citzens' best tools for understanding the workings of government. \n \nThe BGA's outside counsel\, Matt Topic\, presented key do's and don'ts and answered crowd questions. \nBGA Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening in your community. Find more FOIA tips and tricks here. \nThis watchdog training was a collaboration of the Better Government Association; Knight Chair of Investigative Reporting\, Journalism Department at the College of Media\, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; CU-CitizenAccess and The Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting.  \n  \n \nSpecial thanks to the McCormick Foundation for supporting BGA civic engagement activities.  \n \n\nFor more information\, call Stephanie Simon at (312) 821-9042 or email at ssimon@bettergov.org or Pam Dempsey at (217) 239-6617 or email pamelagdempsey@investigatemidwest.org. \n  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-urbana/ LOCATION:Knight Auditorium\, Spurlock Museum\, 600 South Gregory Street\, Urbana\, 61801 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212657Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212657Z UID:7532-0-0@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training | Northwestern University DESCRIPTION:UPDATE: This event is full. \nBGA Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening in your community. In this training\, experts will help you understand government\, the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. \nTraining will also cover federal FOIA. Seating is very limited. \nFor more information\, call Stephanie Simon at (312) 821-9042 or email at ssimon@bettergov.org \nRSVP \n*Reservation required.  \nSpecial thanks to the McCormick Foundation for supporting BGA civic engagement activities. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-northwestern-university/ LOCATION:Medill School; Northwestern University\, 303 East Wacker\, Room 1623\, Chicago\, 60601 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212255Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212255Z UID:7523-0-0@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training University of Illinois Springfield DESCRIPTION:RSVP \n \nSpecial thanks to the Robert R. McCormick Foundation for its generous support of BGA civic engagement events. \n  \n  \n  \nBGA Springfield Advisory Board\nOfficers\nMarilyn Kushak\, Chair\, President of Mid-West Family Broadcasting \nCindy Davis\, Vice Chair\, Co-owner of Resource One \nMembers\nEmily Becker\, General Manager of the Sangamo Club \nDan Cadigan\, Retired Partner of Kerber\, Eck & Braeckel LLP (KEB) \nDr. Kevin Dorsey\, former Dean and Provost of SIU School of Medicine \nJames Forstall\, Consultant\, retired Associate Director of Illinois Board of Higher Education \nHon. Karen Hasara\, Chair of the Sangamon County Citizen’s Efficiency Commission \nMike Lawrence\, former Executive Director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute \nKip Leverton\, CPA\, CFP and Financial Advisor \nVictoria Ringer\, former Executive Director of Downtown Springfield Inc. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-university-of-illinois-springfield/ LOCATION:One University Plaza\, Springfield\, 62703 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/watchdog_event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T175025 DTSTAMP:20260531T175025 CREATED:20220930T212254Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212254Z UID:7521-0-0@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdog Training Governors State University DESCRIPTION:The Better Government Association (BGA) in conjunction with Governors State University hosted a public Watchdog Training session. Matthew Topic\, BGA's outside counsel\, gave an in-depth presentation on the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)\, the state’s primary disclosure law\, at the University Park-based institution. Topic’s presentation focused on the law and how to get access to public records by filing an effective FOIA request. \n  \n \n  \nPhotos courtesy of Danish Murtaza\, BGA Policy Associate. \n \n  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdog-training-governors-state-university/ LOCATION:Governors State University\, 1 University Parkway\, Chicago\, 60484 CATEGORIES:Watchdog Training END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR