BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Better Government Association - ECPv6.17.5//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH 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:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20220101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20220101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20220313T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20221106T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago 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 BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20200308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20201101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20210314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20211107T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20220313T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20221106T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240509T160000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240509T200000 DTSTAMP:20240504T001540Z CREATED:20240315T003231Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240504T001540Z UID:14431-1715270400-1715284800@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Join us for Beyond the Byline and the Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting DESCRIPTION:Join us for Beyond the Byline: Featuring the 20th Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting on Thursday\, May 9th\, from 4:00-8:00 P.M. at Venue SIX10 in downtown Chicago. \n\n\n\nTo mark the 20th anniversary of the awards\, Illinois Answers Project\, the BGA’s Pulitzer Prize-winning newsroom\, will host an expanded event and programming\, “Beyond the Byline: Sparking Change\, Inspiring Action.”   \n\n\n\nThis event promises a dynamic and thought-provoking experience\, featuring a panel of local industry leaders discussing local news’ evolution and the power of news to foster community and civic engagement. This year’s event will culminate with the lauded Driehaus Foundation Awards winners. In addition\, Beyond the Byline and this year’s awards will feature a conversation with Nikole Hannah-Jones. \n\n\n\n\nTickets Available Here\n\n\n\n\nNikole Hannah-Jones portrait after winning MacArthur grant. (Credit: James Estrin/ The New York Times)\n\n\n\nNikole Hannah-Jones is a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter covering racial justice for The New York Times Magazine and creator of the landmark The 1619 Project\, an award-winning reframing of American history that placed slavery and its continuing legacy at the center of our national narrative. \n\n\n\nShe is the Knight Chair in Race and Journalism at Howard University\, where she is the founding director of the Center for Journalism & Democracy. \n\n\n\nThe annual Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting highlight the imperative impact and importance of investigative reporting in Illinois. Judged by a panel of journalists and media educators\, the awards were launched two decades ago by the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation\, thanks in large part to the late Richard Driehaus’ vested belief in the power of journalism as a cornerstone of democracy\, in addition to his long-standing collaboration with awards partner\, the Better Government Association.  \n\n\n\nTickets are available now for a $50 donation per person. As a thank you\, community and news partners\, and BGA supporters who donate $1\,000 or more annually will receive complimentary tickets. Please contact us at YourImpact@bettergov.org for more information. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nProgram\n\n\n\n4:00 – 4:30 PMRegistration + Welcome Reception \n\n\n\n4:30 – 5:30 PMBuilding Bridges: Community Collaboration and Journalism Panel with Tonika Lewis Johnson\, Jamie Kalven\, Mauricio Peña\, and Shamus Toomey \n\n\n\n5:45 – 7:00 PM Driehaus Foundation Awards + Conversation with Nikole Hannah-Jones \n\n\n\n7:00 – 8:00 PM Happy Hour + Closing Reception \n\n\n\nFINALISTS: \n\n\n\nLarge Newsroom Category \n\n\n\n\nChicago Tribune; “Stalled Justice” by Joe Mahr\, Megan Crepeau\, Brian Cassella\n\n\n\nInvestigative Project on Race and Equity & WBEZ Chicago; “Profiled: The State of Traffic Stops in Illinois” by Staff of the Investigative Project on Race and Equity & WBEZ Chicago\n\n\n\nInjustice Watch & WBEZ; “The Failure of Medical Release Reform” by Carlos Ballesteros\, Shannon Heffernan\, and Amy Qin\n\n\n\nCBS WBBM-TV; “The Cost of Being in Care” by Dave Savini\, Michele Youngerman\, Elliott Ramos\, Mike Klingele\, DeAndra Taylor\, Chris Hacker\, Paige Tortorelli\, Tim Viste\, Reed Nolan\, Sam Vega\, Jeff Harris\n\n\n\nWGN-TV; “Dolton’s Political Dysfunction” by Andrew Schroedter\, Ben Bradley\, and Vince Tagle\n\n\n\n\nSmall Newsroom Category \n\n\n\n\nThe TRiiBE & Invisible Institute; “Hundreds of Cops Can’t Testify in Court” by Max Blaisdell\n\n\n\nCity Bureau & Invisible Institute; “Missing in Chicago” by Sarah Conway & Trina Reynolds-Tyler\n\n\n\nInjustice Watch; “Exploited Elders” by David Jackson\n\n\n\nCicero Independiente & MuckRock; “The Air We Breathe: People-Powered Investigations about Environmental Concerns in Cicero\, IL” by Derek Kravitz\, Dillon Bergin\, Kelly Kauffman\, Luis Velazquez\, Richie Requeña\, Jorge Martinez\, Jesus J. Montero\, Stephana Ocneanu\, Glendalys Valdes\, Brian Herrera\, April Alonso\, Irene Romulo\, Karen Wang\, and Sanjin Ibrahimovic URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/join-us-for-beyond-the-byline-and-the-driehaus-foundation-awards-for-investigative-reporting/ LOCATION:Venue SIX10\, 610 S Michigan Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois\, 60605\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240425T120000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240425T133000 DTSTAMP:20240329T212707Z CREATED:20240329T212705Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240329T212707Z UID:14474-1714046400-1714051800@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Out of the Shadows: Empowering Communities Through Court Transparency DESCRIPTION:As part of the Court Transparency Coalition\, Common Cause\, the Better Government and BUILD’s Peace and Justice Center present a community forum to explore how Illinois Courts impact the lives of everyday people – especially in communities most impacted by the carceral system – and why it is time that the courts be held the same transparency and accountability standards as all other branches of government. \n\n\n\nMore broadly\, FOIA helps promote a culture of continual quality improvement and reform for which advocates and taxpayers are entitled to expect. How can the courts\, legislators\, the public or activists advocate for meaningful improvements or investments without access to essential data? Especially considering the enactment of the SAFE-T Act\, meaningful access to court data would help ensure that critical justice policy debates in the public square or the legislature are informed and guided by facts\, not political rhetoric at the expense of people’s lives. And finally\, as Illinois’ judicial branch oversees our Juvenile Detention Centers\, it is imperative that the public have access to information to ensure our most vulnerable children as safe. \n\n\n\nLunch will be provided. \n\n\n\n\nReserve A Spot Here URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/out-of-the-shadows-empowering-communities-through-court-transparency/ LOCATION:5100 W Harrison St\, 5100 W Harrison St\, Chicago\, Illinois\, 60629\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240404T173000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240404T193000 DTSTAMP:20240320T001814Z CREATED:20240311T140000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240320T001814Z UID:14405-1712251800-1712259000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Ink + Impact: A Celebration of Journalism DESCRIPTION:Step into the heart of literary excellence at the American Writers Museum\, and engage in captivating conversations\, share experiences\, and forge connections with like-minded individuals who share a vested belief in the power of journalism and good government. Full bar and appetizers will be served. \n\n\n\nHear from industry leaders as they share insights\, stories\, and the profound impact of the ever-evolving landscape of journalism: \n\n\n\nFeatured Guests:\n\n\n\n\nRuby Bailey\, Illinois Answers Project Editor-in-Chief\n\n\n\nTim Franklin\, Senior Associate Dean at the Medill School of Journalism\n\n\n\n\nAs a thank you\, community and news partners\, and BGA supporters who donate $250 or more annually will receive complimentary tickets. Please contact us at YourImpact@bettergov.org for more information. \n\n\n\nAmerican Writers Museum | April 4th | 5:30 – 7:30 P.M | $20 donation URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/ink-impact-a-celebration-of-journalism/ LOCATION:American Writers Museum\, 180 North Michigan Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois\, 60601\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Copy-of-ink-impact-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240321T083000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240321T103000 DTSTAMP:20240308T223056Z CREATED:20240301T032339Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240308T223056Z UID:14361-1711009800-1711017000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Ink + Impact: Ethics in Government DESCRIPTION:Join the BGA Second Century Council for a round table breakfast discussion regarding the City Council’s Ethics Committee\, with 47th Ward Alderman Matt Martin.This event is programmed for all current Patron level supporters+ and invited guests. Please reach out to the development team at YourImpact@bettergov.org with any questions. \n\n\n\nEvent Details:\n\n\n\nMarch 21\, 2024 | 8:30am – 10:30am The Thompson Chicago21 E Bellevue Pl\, Chicago\, IL 60611 URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/second-century-council-member-event-ink-impact/ LOCATION:The Thompson Chicago\, 21 E Bellevue Pl\, Chicago\, IL 60611\, Chicago\, Illinois\, 60611\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Ink-Impact-Ethics-in-Government-webpage-header.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20231017T180000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20231017T193000 DTSTAMP:20230926T031337Z CREATED:20230926T031155Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230926T031337Z UID:13726-1697565600-1697571000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:The Informed Chicagoan: How to have your voice heard by Chicago’s government officials DESCRIPTION:Join the BGA Policy team in sharing the structure of Chicago’s government\, and the tools available to you to connect with Chicago’s government officials. \n\n\n\nWe’ll also be there to discuss any questions you might have for us and the work we do. \n\n\n\nLight refreshments will be provided. \n\n\n\nTopics we will cover: \n\n\n\n\nChicago Government Structure\n\n\n\nCity Council Meetings\n\n\n\nPublic Comment\n\n\n\nFiling a FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request\n\n\n\nIntroducing Legislation\n\n\n\nWorking with your Alderperson\n\n\n\nUseful tools for gathering information\n\n\n\nAbout BGA Policy\n\n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/the-informed-chicagoan-how-to-have-your-voice-heard-by-chicagos-government-officials/ LOCATION:Austin Branch\, Chicago Public Library\, 5615 W Race Ave\, Chicago\, Illinois\, 60644 ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/https___cdn.evbuc_.com_images_605972089_534611578177_1_original.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="BGA Policy":MAILTO:policy@bettergov.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230627T130000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230627T140000 DTSTAMP:20230621T204421Z CREATED:20230621T204421Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230621T204421Z UID:13257-1687870800-1687874400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Virtual Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Training DESCRIPTION:FOIA is a critically important tool in every investigative reporter’s toolkit. Join us for a virtual training with Freedom of Information attorney Matt Topic for a refresher on filing FOIA requests\, how to best utilize FOIA in your reporting\, the legal limits of FOIA\, and what to do if your FOIA requests are denied. \nThis training is open to everyone but is aimed specifically at journalists and those with basic FOIA experience. \nSpeakers: \nThis session will be led by Matt Topic\, partner at Loevy & Loevys litigated hundreds of state and federal FOIA cases around the country. He has trained hundreds of journalists\, activists\, lawmakers\, and individuals on the Freedom of Information Act\, is a regular presenter at Investigative Reporters & Editors conferences\, and is frequently quoted in the media on transparency issues. He has also represented journalists seeking access to court records\, quashed subpoenas for sources\, defended and counseled against defamation claims\, and fought unconstitutional gag orders. \nThis session will be moderated by Illinois Answers Project data reporter Cam Rodriguez. Cam is a data journalist interested in the overlap between community engagement\, investigative and data reporting. In her work\, she has done everything from research and archive/database digging\, creating graphics and interactive visualizations\, editing and management\, engagement strategy\, public records requests and more. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/virtual-freedom-of-information-act-foia-training/ LOCATION:Online event CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/https___cdn.evbuc_.com_images_536920239_534611578177_1_original.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Better Government Association":MAILTO:info@bettergov.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230524T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230524T200000 DTSTAMP:20230428T213254Z CREATED:20230428T212747Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230428T213254Z UID:13066-1684949400-1684958400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:2023 Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Journalism DESCRIPTION:Join the Better Government Association for a night of celebration at the 2023 Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting! \nThe awards highlight the impact of Illinois investigative and enterprise reporting as a reform tool within the context of state and local government waste\, fraud\, and corruption. \nThe evening will be a celebration of awardees and include a conversation between BGA President David Greising and Megan Twohey\, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter for The New York Times and a best-selling author who has focused much of her work on the treatment of women and children. \nTwohey\, along with investigative reporter Jodi Kantor\, broke the story of decades of sexual abuse allegations against Harvey Weinstein in 2017\, helping to ignite the #MeToo movement. Twohey and Kantor co-authored “Chasing the Truth” and “SHE SAID\,” inspiring the 2022 film by the same name. \nAwards will be announced in two categories: Large Newsroom and Small Newsroom. In addition to the prestigious awards\, winners will take home $27\,000 in cash prizes. \nTickets include an open bar (wine and beer) with heavy hors d’oeuvres. \nRegister here URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/richard-h-driehaus-foundation-awards-for-investigative-journalism/ LOCATION:City Hall Events\, 838 W Kinzie St\, Chicago\, 60642\, United States CATEGORIES:Driehaus Awards ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/BGA_2023_RDF_Award_Hero_1920x1080.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230418T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230418T120000 DTSTAMP:20230428T214204Z CREATED:20230428T214204Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230428T214204Z UID:13128-1681808400-1681819200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:City Council 101 DESCRIPTION:Chicago’s new City Council will take office on May 15th. But how does it all really work\, inside the council chambers? Join the Better Government Association’s policy team for an in-depth seminar on the history\, rules\, and workings of Chicago City Council. \nFree and open to the public\, this seminar will be especially beneficial to new lawmakers and their staff\, as well as individuals and organizations active in seeking policy and legislative changes. \nPanels and Speakers: \n(9:15 – 10:30 am) Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Going: The History and Future of Chicago’s City Council\n\n\nFeaturing:\n\nJoe Ferguson – Former City of Chicago Inspector General\nDick Simpson – Professor\, University of Illinois – Chicago\nMichele Smith – Former Alderman 43rd Ward\n\n\n\n(10:35 – 11:55 am) Making the Sausage: The Rules and Workings of City Council\n\n\nFeaturing:\n\nAnna Valencia\, Chicago City Clerk\nAld. Jason Ervin (28th Ward)\nAld. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa (35th Ward)\nAld. Matt Martin (47th Ward)\n\n\n\nA complimentary breakfast will be available. \nRegister here URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/city-council-101/ LOCATION:Harold Washington Libary\, 400 S State St\, Chicago\, Illinois\, 60605\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/my-favorite-new-york-city-spots-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20211208T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20211208T183000 DTSTAMP:20220930T204013Z CREATED:20220930T204012Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T204013Z UID:7380-1638988200-1638988200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Understanding Cook County’s Pattern of Dead-End Drug Arrests DESCRIPTION:In Cook County\, thousands of people are arrested every year for possessing small amounts of drugs only to have their cases thrown out just days later. It’s due to an unwritten rule in the courts that costs millions of dollars in taxes and costs those getting arrested their jobs\, their homes and their freedom. \nA new investigation\, “Dead-End Drug Arrests\,” examines this pattern in Cook County. The Better Government Association and the Chicago Sun-Times found those charged with carrying less than one gram of drugs are still routinely arrested although their charges are overwhelmingly dismissed in the earliest stages of their court cases. \nJoin us online on Wednesday\, December 8 at 6:30 p.m. for our discussion with: \n\nKathie Kane-Willis\, director of research\, Chicago Urban League\nBenny Lee\, founder and CEO\, National Alliance for the Empowerment of the Formerly Incarcerated\nEra Laudermilk\, Chief of Staff for Cook County Public Defender’s office\nBen Ruddell\, Director of Criminal Justice Policy\, ACLU Illinois\n\nBetter Government Association investigative reporter Casey Toner will moderate the conversation with guests as they discuss the findings of the investigation\, the history behind existing drug laws\, the Cook County court system’s record on drug charges and the impact the Cook County criminal system has on communities. They’ll also examine what real reform could look like in Illinois. \n“Dead-End Drug Arrests” is part of The Circuit\, a joint project from Better Government Association and Injustice Watch\, in partnership with the civic tech consulting firm DataMade. Learn more about the project here. The University of Southern California’s Annenberg Center for Health Journalism also provided financial support for the “Dead-End Drug Arrests” project through a 2021 National Fellowship. \nReaders are welcome to participate in the digital discussion by submitting questions for our panel when you RSVP. \nYou will not need to be logged into Facebook/YouTube or have a Facebook/YouTube account to view the live stream. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/understanding-cook-countys-pattern-of-dead-end-drug-arrests/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BGAxCST_Digital_300x250-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20210726T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20210726T180000 DTSTAMP:20220930T204028Z CREATED:20220930T204028Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T204028Z UID:7394-1627322400-1627322400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:BGA Community Forum: Black Youth\, Carjacking and the Cook County Juvenile Justice System DESCRIPTION:Join us on Monday\, July 26\, from 6 – 7 p.m. for an interactive virtual discussion moderated by BGA’s Investigative Reporter Sidnee King on Facebook Live. King will be joined by community advocates to discuss the criminalization of Black youth\, the issues that affect young Black life in Chicago\, and where the solutions are for Black youth involved in carjackings and other crimes considered violent. \nSet your reminders to join us on Facebook Live or register for the event through our Eventbrite page. \n\nPanel:\nMark Clements  \n \nIn 1981\, 16-year-old Mark Clements\, confessed under police duress to a crime he did not commit. He became the second Illinois juvenile to be sentenced to natural life without parole\, and served 28 years before his conviction was overturned in 2009. He has been employed by the Campaign to End the Death Penalty\, National Alliance Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression\, and for the past three years with Chicago Torture Justice Center. Mark advocates for people and communities impacted as the result of police violence\, the abolition of the death penalty and criminal justice reforms. \n\nAna Mercado \n Ana Mercado is the director of restorative justice at Alternatives\, Inc. She has been a restorative justice practitioner\, educator and youth organizer for more than 15 years. She also founded the Peace Ambassador apprenticeship and has developed systems and supports for Alternatives to become a model of a restorative workplace. \n  \n  \n  \nMiracle Boyd \n(Photo by Davon Clark/Injustice Watch)\nMiracle Boyd is a youth organizer at GoodKids MadCity\, which works to end gun violence and build community resources on Chicago’s South and West sides. She began organizing in 2018 when she and her high school peers protested the closures of four neighborhood schools in Englewood. She studies at DePaul University. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/bga-community-forum-black-youth-carjacking-and-the-cook-county-juvenile-justice-system/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20210608T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20210608T160000 DTSTAMP:20230428T213311Z CREATED:20220930T204244Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230428T213311Z UID:7403-1623168000-1623168000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting A Remedy For Wrong Virtual Awards Ceremony DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/the-richard-h-driehaus-foundation-awards-for-investigative-reporting-a-remedy-for-wrong-virtual-awards-ceremony/ CATEGORIES:Driehaus Awards END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200929T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200929T180000 DTSTAMP:20220930T205444Z CREATED:20220930T205444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205444Z UID:7432-1601402400-1601402400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:TRiiBE Tuesday: A Town Hall with Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot DESCRIPTION:Chicago’s mayor will participate in TRiiBE Tuesday: A Town Hall with Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot\, a virtual event co-hosted by the Institute for Nonprofit News and the “Lens on Lightfoot” partners\, on Tuesday\, Sept 29 at 6 p.m.  \nThe BGA’s Alejandra Cancino will join our partners in this collaboration in questioning the mayor about her administration’s actions. \n Since taking office in 2019\, Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot has made big promises\, difficult decisions and faced unprecedented circumstances. During her inauguration speech\, Lightfoot promised to invest in schools\, improve safety for every neighborhood\, and address Chicago’s history of corruption in politics.\n \nBut some residents of Chicago question her progress so far: Is she still committed to delivering on some of the proposed progressive reform policies and actions she spoke about?\n \nYou can hear from Lightfoot herself as she takes questions from reporters and the public in this free online event.  \nMore about TRiiBE Tuesday: Sponsored by the Field Foundation of Illinois\, TRiiBE Tuesday is a monthly panel and discussion series hosted by The TRiiBE\, a digital media platform covering Black news and culture in Chicago. Visit thetriibe.com to learn more.\n  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/triibe-tuesday-a-town-hall-with-mayor-lori-e-lightfoot/ LOCATION:On Facebook Live and YouTube CATEGORIES:& Awards,Fundraisers,Special Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200903T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200903T110000 DTSTAMP:20220930T205444Z CREATED:20220930T205444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205444Z UID:7434-1599130800-1599130800@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Ready for Reform? The Path to Honest Government in Illinois DESCRIPTION:BGA President David Greising will discuss the need for comprehensive ethics reform and recommendations for how to make reform a reality in this virtual talk sponsored by the City Club of Chicago. The event is free to both members and non-members but registration is required. Register here.  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/ready-for-reform-the-path-to-honest-government-in-illinois/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/new_david_image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200707T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200707T140000 DTSTAMP:20220930T205615Z CREATED:20220930T205615Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205615Z UID:7436-1594130400-1594130400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Open or Shut Case: COVID-19 and the Fight for Public Records DESCRIPTION:Secret City Council meetings\, destruction of police files\, and statewide access to public records: They’ve all been on the line in the last few weeks. Using COVID-19 as cover\, governments in Chicago and Springfield have sought to go behind closed doors and shut out the public—but the Better Government Association has been there to stop them. \nZoom into a one-of-a-kind event as three experts explain it all to BGA President David Greising. They are: \n\nDaniel Bevarly\, executive director of the National Freedom of Information Coalition\nMarie Dillon\, BGA’s policy director\nMatt Topic\, BGA’s outside general counsel \n\nThe 45-minute discussion will uncover the stakes at risk in the BGA’s fight to hold government accountable. \nRegister here. You will receive a confirmation with a Zoom link and an opportunity to submit questions for the BGA team to answer. Capacity is limited. \nThank you for supporting the BGA! URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/open-or-shut-case-covid-19-and-the-fight-for-public-records/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200122T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200122T000000 DTSTAMP:20220930T205615Z CREATED:20220930T205615Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205615Z UID:7437-1579651200-1579651200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:A Lesson in Clout from the 25th Ward DESCRIPTION:As 25th Ward Ald. Daniel Solis was cooperating in a sweeping federal corruption probe before leaving office last year\, a top staffer was building a new career as a bouncer\, security guard and as a lobbyist at an Illinois utility company. Read the investigation here: How Embattled Alderman Solis’ Top Aide Landed Three Jobs \nJoin the Better Government Association and WBEZ at this free event to hear reporters discuss their recent reporting\, and to talk about how aldermen throughout all of Chicago wield unique power that sometimes leads to corruption. \nFree and open to the public. Bring your questions\, comments and tips. Come for the empanadas\, stay for a lesson in clout politics in Chicago! \nDoors and food at 6 p.m.\nProgram and discussion from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/a-lesson-in-clout-from-the-25th-ward/ LOCATION:Pilsen Outpost\, 1637 W 18th St\, Chicago\, 60608 ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/jan-22-event_0.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20191105T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20191105T113000 DTSTAMP:20230428T213327Z CREATED:20220930T205615Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230428T213327Z UID:7438-1572953400-1572953400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:2019 BGA Annual Luncheon DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/2019-bga-annual-luncheon/ LOCATION:Hilton Chicago\, 720 S. Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, 60605 CATEGORIES:Fundraisers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/scott-simon.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20181016T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20181016T113000 DTSTAMP:20230428T213335Z CREATED:20220930T212921Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230428T213335Z UID:7552-1539689400-1539689400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:2018 BGA Annual Luncheon DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/2018-bga-annual-luncheon/ LOCATION:Hilton Chicago\, 720 S Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, 60605 CATEGORIES:Fundraisers END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180307T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180307T180000 DTSTAMP:20220930T212906Z CREATED:20220930T212906Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212906Z UID:7547-1520445600-1520445600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Public Forums: Attorney General Race DESCRIPTION:The BGA\, in collaboration with ABC7\, hosted a public forum on March\, 7th with the candidates for attorney general.  \nThe forum was held at Roosevelt University in Chicago and was moderated by the BGA’s Policy & Civic Engagement Director\, Madeleine Doubek\, and ABC7 Political Reporter Craig Wall. Candidates were asked about the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Open Meetings Act (OMA)\, campaign contributions\, consumer protection\, identity theft\, and reform of the Chicago Police Department. \nThe event was split into two segments\, with the Republican candidates Gary Grasso and Erika Harold going first at 6:00 pm. During the forum\, Harold defended her decision to accept $300\,000 from Governor Bruce Rauner. "I have a record of already standing up for the things that I think are right and opposing him and that's a record\," Harold said. When asked about public funding for campaigns\, Grasso noted Rauner’s donation to his opponent. “There has to be some level of [public funding]\,” he said. “We’re getting too many people with independent wealth that have to run for office and not enough people who can do this grassroots-wise.” \n \nThe eight Democratic candidates took the stage at 7:00 pm\, including candidates Scott Drury\, Sharon Fairley\, Aaron Goldstein\, Renato Mariotti\, Pat Quinn\, Kwame Raoul\, Nancy Rotering\, and Jesse Ruiz. A key issue addressed by the candidates was the attorney general’s role in protecting the public’s access to information. \n“We should always err on the side of disclosure\, and only not disclose information when there is an actual\, real interest that could be harmed\,” said Fairley when asked about the Rauner administration’s use of FOIA exemptions to withhold documents related to a Legionnaires’ outbreak at the Quincy Veterans’ Home. Mariotti and Raoul suggested that guidelines might be set for the deliberative process exemption that Rauner is using in this case.  \n \nGoldstein argued that the next attorney general should litigate cases that come before the public access counselor’s office. Mariotti added that the counselor is “overburdened.” Raoul agreed that more resources were needed\, reminding the audience that he sponsored the legislation that originally created the office.  \nRotering suggested that more public education was necessary. “It’s vitally important to empower the residents of Illinois and give them\, through outreach\, and through education\, knowledge of what is meant by the Freedom of Information Act and what is meant by the Open Meetings Act\,” she said.  \nRuiz steered the conversation towards increasing the effectiveness of the public access counselor’s work. “There is always going to be more work than there are resources\,” he said. “What we have to do is proactively make sure that all the information that the media\, journalists\, and citizens are looking for in this era – when you have so much technology at play – [is] put out proactively so that we can re-engineer the workflow.”  \nQuinn also said more resources were needed for the public access counselor’s office. “We have to always have openness\,” he said. Drury challenged Quinn’s stance\, claiming it was “impossible” to get documents when Quinn was governor\, “even as a government representative.” Drury said\, “they used the deliberative process excuse and gave me blacked out documents.” \nDuring both sessions\, the moderators took questions from social media on a variety of issues\, including the opioid epidemic\, whether the candidates support a ban on assault weapons\, and whether they would use their office to support efforts that reform the criminal justice system. \nThe event was live-streamed by ABC7 and is currently available for viewing on the BGA’s Facebook page and the ABC7 website. For more information on the background of the attorney general candidates see the BGA’s voters guide and questionnaire.  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/public-forums-attorney-general-race/ LOCATION:Ganz Hall\, Roosevelt University\, 430 S Michigan Ave\, Chicago\, 60605 CATEGORIES:& Awards,Fundraisers,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/social.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180125T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180125T000000 DTSTAMP:20220930T212921Z 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:20220930T212657Z 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:20171011T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171011T110000 DTSTAMP:20230428T213342Z CREATED:20220930T212456Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230428T213342Z UID:7530-1507719600-1507719600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:2017 BGA Annual Luncheon DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/2017-bga-annual-luncheon/ LOCATION:Fairmont Chicago\, 200 N. Columbus Dr.\, Chicago CATEGORIES:Fundraisers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/dickerson.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170921T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170921T190000 DTSTAMP:20220930T212851Z 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:20220930T212837Z 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:20170801T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170801T180000 DTSTAMP:20220930T212851Z CREATED:20220930T212851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212851Z UID:7541-1501610400-1501610400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:LOL with BGA Summer Comedy Fun-raiser DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/lol-with-bga-summer-comedy-fun-raiser/ LOCATION:Untitled\, 111 W. Kinzie\, Chicago END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170508T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170508T000000 DTSTAMP:20220930T212851Z CREATED:20220930T212851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212851Z UID:7542-1494201600-1494201600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:The Future of News: Covering the Capitol DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/the-future-of-news-covering-the-capitol/ CATEGORIES:Idea Forums END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170503T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170503T000000 DTSTAMP:20230428T213357Z CREATED:20220930T212906Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230428T213357Z UID:7546-1493769600-1493769600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Richard H. Driehaus Foundation 2017 Awards for Investigative Reporting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/richard-h-driehaus-foundation-2017-awards-for-investigative-reporting/ CATEGORIES:Driehaus Awards END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170303T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170303T000000 DTSTAMP:20220930T212658Z CREATED:20220930T212658Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212658Z UID:7535-1488499200-1488499200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Separate But Unequal? School Funding In Illinois DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/separate-but-unequal-school-funding-in-illinois/ CATEGORIES:Idea Forums ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Nwsltr_SchoolFunding_Forum_March2017.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20170223T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20170223T190000 DTSTAMP:20220930T212851Z 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:20160927T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20160927T120000 DTSTAMP:20220930T212837Z CREATED:20220930T212837Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212837Z UID:7539-1474977600-1474977600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Recap | 2016 BGA Springfield Luncheon: Candidates\, Chaos And Consequences DESCRIPTION:Jim Edgar and Chris Kennedy talk Trump\, Clinton\, Rauner\, Madigan and more at BGA Luncheon. \n\nIn the midst of a chaotic\, surreal campaign season and one day following the first presidential debate\, civility and public discourse set the tone for the conversation between two political titans at the BGA’s Springfield Luncheon on Tuesday\, September 27. \nAs the featured guests in “Elections 2016: Candidates\, Chaos and Consequences\,” former Governor Jim Edgar\, a Republican\, and former University of Illinois Board Chair Chris Kennedy\, a Democrat and potential gubernatorial candidate in 2018\, offered a breakdown of the current state of politics in Illinois and the nation. From the race for the White House to reform here at home\, they analyzed it all in a conversation with Andy Shaw\, BGA President and CEO\, before an audience of about 185 in Springfield’s President Abraham Lincoln DoubleTree hotel. \n\n\nThe event replayed on WMAY 970-AM and 95.7-FM that evening and is available by podcast here: http://www.wmay.com/episode/podcast-candidates-chaos-consequences-w-better-government-association/. \nThe thought-provoking examination by both Edgar and Kennedy found common ground on a range of issues\, including that neither would vote for Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump. Edgar\, a Republican governor from 1991 to 1999\, said the November 8 election will be the first time he will not vote for the GOP candidate\, although he wouldn’t disclose whether he would vote for Democrat Hillary Clinton or a third-party candidate. “It’s a secret ballot\,” he said. \nDespite not voting for Trump\, Edgar said he still believes Trump could win the election. \nKennedy predicted Clinton will win the November election\, as Trump would not be able to win Electoral College votes. But\, speaking directly to the Springfield audience\, Kennedy said the well-informed\, engaged individuals who represent the “establishment” of both political parties need to listen to those who are disengaged and “raging.” \n“The American dream of rising from rags to riches was the promise of our country—the place where anyone could make it\,” Kennedy said. “And people don’t believe that anymore. They’re upset. They’re angry. And they’re willing to destroy everything we have if we don’t fix that. That’s the message of this election.” \nPhoto Gallery\n \n \nBoth Edgar and Kennedy agreed this election season to be a critical moment in our country’s history. \nIn Illinois’ history and the context of state-level races November 8\, the lack of a state budget is most critical\, they agreed. \nAs current chairman of the Kennedy Family investment firm Joseph P. Kennedy Enterprises Inc. and its real estate holdings in Chicago known as Wolf Point\, Kennedy said the fiscal uncertainty is crippling Illinois’ economy. \n“Why should we invest in the only state that doesn’t have a budget\,” he said\, reciting perspectives he hears from investors. \nNeither Edgar nor Kennedy believed good government election reforms—including the Independent Map Amendment to reform the way legislative districts are drawn in Illinois— would alone solve Illinois’ chronic problems.  Edgar also said rewriting Illinois’ 1970 Constitution would be unwise at this time. “There’s nothing wrong with our Constitution\,” he said. Rather\, we need to elect better people\, he quipped. \nThe Springfield luncheon was held just as news broke that a federal judge blocked same-day voter registration on Election Day. The BGA was part of a group of voting rights advocates that urged the U.S. District Court Judge Samuel Der-Yeghiayan to keep the Election Day Registration\, which has been in place in Illinois since 2014. \nThe BGA was disappointed in that ruling. “Too many Illinois residents are disengaged from the democratic process\, and we pay a high price for that\,” Shaw said. “We need more engaged voters\, not fewer.” \nThe luncheon was the first fundraiser in Springfield since the BGA’s three-year effort to establish a more permanent and prominent presence in the capital city. The 12-member Springfield Advisory Board\, chaired by Cindy Davis\, co-owner of Resource One office furniture in Springfield\, hosted the luncheon and urged the audience to get engaged. \n“We are all affected by Illinois’ compounding challenges\,” Davis said. “We—as individuals and as a community—can be informed and should demand a better government.” \nThe event raised more than $20\,000 towards the Springfield efforts\, thanks in part to the many sponsors\, particularly presenting sponsor Isringhausen Imports. \nOther sponsors included AARP Illinois\, Illinois REALTORS\, Hospital Sisters Health System\, KEB\, former Senator Larry K. Bomke\, BUNN\, Phelon Public Strategies\, Illinois Insurance Association and Dr. Stephen and Lisa Stone.  Media sponsors were 94.7 & 970 WMAY and the Illinois Times. \n\n  \nElections 2016: Candidates\, Chaos and Consequences\n Featuring: Jim Edgar\, Former Illinois Governor\n Chris Kennedy\, Former University of Illinois Chair\n Special Guest: Natalie Bomke\, FOX 32 Chicago\, Springfield Native \n  \nLuncheon sponsorship information:\n Bethany Jaeger\n 217-789-0960\n bethanyj@kebcpa.com \n\n\n\n      \n\nJim Edgar\n former governor of Illinois\n\n\n\n\n\nChris Kennedy\n former University of Illinois Chair\n\n\n\n\n\nNatalie Bomke\n Fox 32 Chicago news anchor and reporter and Springfield native URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/recap-2016-bga-springfield-luncheon-candidates-chaos-and-consequences/ LOCATION:The President Abraham Lincoln Springfield – A Doubletree by Hilton\, 701 E Adams St\, Springfield CATEGORIES:& Awards,Fundraisers,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/SpringfieldLuncheonSept27main.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20160913T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20160913T000000 DTSTAMP:20230428T213410Z CREATED:20220930T212255Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230428T213410Z UID:7525-1473724800-1473724800@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:2016 Annual Luncheon DESCRIPTION:Sponsorship Opportunities\nTo download a sponsorship opportunities form\, please click here. For ticket and sponsorship information please contact Mary Frances O'Connor at 312.821.9026 or mfoconnor@bettergov.org. \nSee more   \n​SHERATON CHICAGO\n 301 E North Water St\n Chicago\, IL 60611 \nReception 11:00 AM\n Luncheon 12:00 PM \n\nTITLE SPONSOR\n  \n​Luncheon Co-Chairs\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJohn A. Canning\, Jr.\n E. David Coolidge\n James S. Crown\n Lester Crown\n Janice L. Feinberg\n Daniel L. Goodwin\n  \n\n\nMichael L. Keiser\n Joe Mansueto\n Steven N. Miller\n James N. Perry\, Jr.\n Mark E. Rust\n James and Kathleen Skinner\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\nPlatinum Sponsor – $50\,000\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPriority table seating for two tables of ten\nPriority name/logo placement on all luncheon printed materials\nPriority name/logo placement on BGA website\nSignage at BGA issue briefings\nEntry to private reception with featured guest(s)\n\n\n\n\n\nGold Sponsor – $25\,000\n\n\nPrime table seating for a table of ten\nPrime name/logo placement on all luncheon printed materials\nPrime name/logo placement on BGA website\nEntry to private reception with featured guest(s)\n\n\n\n\n\nSilver Sponsor – $10\,000\n\n\nPreferred table seating for a table of ten\nPreferred name recognition on all luncheon printed materials\nPreferred name recognition on BGA website\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBGA Sponsor – $5\,000\n\nReserved table seating for a table of ten\nReserved name recognition on all luncheon printed materials\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIndividual Reservation(s) – $500\n\n\nReserved seating for one individual URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/2016-annual-luncheon/ LOCATION:Sheraton Chicago\, 301 E North Water St\, Chicago\, 60611 CATEGORIES:Fundraisers ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bettergov.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BGA_2016_Luncheon_event1.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR