BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Better Government Association - ECPv6.15.18//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: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 TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19720430T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19721029T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19730429T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19731028T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19740106T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19741027T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19750223T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19751026T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19760425T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19761031T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19770424T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19771030T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19780430T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19781029T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19790429T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19791028T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19800427T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19801026T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19810426T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19811025T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19820425T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19821031T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19830424T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19831030T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19840429T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19841028T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19850428T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19851027T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19860427T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19861026T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19870405T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19871025T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19880403T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19881030T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19890402T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19891029T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19900401T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19901028T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19910407T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19911027T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19920405T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19921025T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19930404T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19931031T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19940403T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19941030T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19950402T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19951029T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19960407T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19961027T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19970406T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19971026T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19980405T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19981025T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:19990404T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:19991031T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20000402T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20001029T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20010401T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20011028T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20020407T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20021027T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20030406T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20031026T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20040404T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20041031T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20050403T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20051030T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20060402T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20061029T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20070311T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20071104T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20080309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20081102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20090308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20091101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20100314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20101107T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20110313T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20111106T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT 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 END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120911T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120911T173000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T210429Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210429Z UID:7475-1347384600-1347384600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Improving Judicial Selection: Are We Ready for Reform? DESCRIPTION:The Better Government Association and the Union League Club of Chicago hosted a panel discussion featuring experts on judicial reform. \nPanelists include: \nCook County Circuit Judge and former State Representative Anthony Young \nRetired Appellate Court Justice Gino L. DiVito Brian Gladstein\, Executive Director\, Illinois Campaign for Political Reform John Thies\, President\, Illinois State Bar Association \nModerated by Andy Shaw\, President and CEO\, BGA URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/improving-judicial-selection-are-we-ready-for-reform/ LOCATION:Union League Club\, 65 West Jackson Blvd.\, Chicago\, 60606 CATEGORIES:Idea Forums END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120902T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120902T190000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 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:20120731T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120731T180000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T211415Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211415Z UID:7486-1343757600-1343757600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Corruption Isn't Funny...But Sometimes You Have to Laugh to Keep from Crying! DESCRIPTION:THIS EVENT HAS SOLD OUT. \n >> YOU CAN STILL SUPPORT THE WORK OF THE BGA BY MAKING A DONATION \nWHAT: The Onion LIVE \nWHERE: Paris Club 59 West Hubbard Street \nWHEN: Tuesday\, July 31 6:00pm-9:00pm \nWHO: Emceed by WGN TV’s Larry Potash and Robin Baumgarten\, featuring special performances by IL Lt. Governor Sheila Simon and The Onion Players \nWHY: This event is a FUN-raiser\, hosted by the BGA Young Professionals Board \n  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/corruption-isnt-funny-but-sometimes-you-have-to-laugh-to-keep-from-crying/ LOCATION:Paris Club\, 59 W Hubbard St\, Chicago\, 60654 CATEGORIES:& Awards,Fundraisers,Special Events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120724T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120724T173000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T210429Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210429Z UID:7473-1343151000-1343151000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Freedom of Information Act Clinic DESCRIPTION:Questions about the Freedom of Information Act? Are you looking for help with a denied request? Need help formulating your FOIA request and asking for the right documents? \nSign up for a one-on-one 15 minutes session with an attorney at no charge! Meet with a FOIA expert for free legal advice on how to get your request answered. \nA scheduled appointment is necessary. Contact Barb Macholz at bmacholz@bettergov.org or 312.821.9025 for an appointment. Additional information is required before an appointment can be scheduled. \nThis FOIA Clinic will be held in downtown Chicago at: \nCenter for Open Government\nChicago-Kent College of Law\n565 W Adams St\, Ste 600\nChicago\, IL 60661\n \n\n  URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/freedom-of-information-act-clinic/ LOCATION:Center for Open Government\, 565 W Adams St\, Chicago\, 60661 CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120626T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120626T190000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 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:20120602T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120602T183000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T210429Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210429Z UID:7471-1338661800-1338661800@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Citizen Watchdogs of Education: Urban League DESCRIPTION:The BGA will be hosting the next Citizen Watchdogs of Education training in partnership with the Chicago Urban League.\nJoin parents and community leaders in understanding how your local Chicago public school operates. This Citizen Watchdogs of Education training session will teach you about the governing structure of the Chicago Public Schools system\, school budgets and public school funding.\nExpert presenter Sarah Karp from Catalyst Chicago and the BGA’s Investigative Team will teach you all you need to know about school finances and the Freedom of Information Act and they’ll give you the tools you need to keep an eye on your local school.\nRSVP to Barb at bmacholz@bettergov.org or 312.821.9025\nAbout The Chicago Urban League \nEstablish in 1916\, the Chicago Urban League works for economic\, educational and social progress for African Americans and promotes strong sustainable communities through progressive advocacy\, effective collaboration\, and innovative programming. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/citizen-watchdogs-of-education-urban-league-2/ LOCATION:Chicago Urban League\, 4510 S Michigan Ave\, Chicago\, 60615 CATEGORIES:Education Watchdogs END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120601T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120601T000000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T212054Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230428T213547Z UID:7519-1338508800-1338508800@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:The 2012 Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting DESCRIPTION:The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting recognize the best in government-related investigative reporting from across the Midwest region. \n \n\nWe are pleased to announce the winners for The 2012 Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting: \nFIRST PLACE\nPension Games\nBy: Mark Suppelsa\, Marsha Bartel\, Jason Grotto\, Ray Long and Jodi CohenWGN-TV and The Chicago Tribune \nA tip from a frustrated worker to WGN-TV led the station’s investigative team to a vacant park\, where union sources revealed shocking abuses of Illinois’ pension system. \nThis secret discussion was the spark behind a four-month multimedia series that exposed waste and fraud within an already cash-strapped state pension system. \nThe station\, in collaboration with The Chicago Tribune\, learned\, among other things\, that the man in charge of the city’s Pension Board committed fraud by trying to ‘double dip’ his own pension; that a former legislator nearly doubled his pension by working on a one-month project for the dean of Chicago’s city council; and that one of Chicago’s most powerful union leaders convinced city hall to let him work an extra day as a laborer so that he could collect a nearly $160\,000 public pension. \nA team of five poured over government records and scoured multiple databases to clearly explain how private workers scammed the system to receive large public pensions. \nThe series led to a federal grand jury investation into the pension deals of nearly a dozen of union officials. The Department of Labor began to audit one of the city’s key unions and the Governor signed a bill that would help prevent pension abuse. \nSECOND PLACE\nBoth Sides of the Law\nBy: Gina BartonMilwaukee Journal Sentinel In 2004\, off-duty Milwaukee police officers beat a man at a party. While investigating that story\, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter Gina Barton learned that one of those officers had a criminal record prior to joining the police force. This finding drove her to ask: how many other officers\, if any\, also had criminal records? No one\, not even the Fire and Police Commission responsible for hiring officers\, had an answer. So Barton began to investigate. \nHer investigation revealed that more than 90 Milwaukee police officers have violated the very laws they are sworn to uphold. The offenses ranged from sexual assault to domestic violence to shoplifiting. The Milwaukee Police Department often turned a blind eye to this misconduct and the general public was kept in the dark about these officer’s criminal activities. \nThe Sentinel produced a multi-article series in 2011 that detailed the results of the investigation. In addition\, the paper created a searchable database that allowed the public to search department disciplinary records.  \nThe investigation’s impact was immediate. One officer was found guilty of sexual assault. The governor vetoed a proposed bill that would allow officers accused of criminal misconduct to stay on the payroll. And the chief of police rolled out a new program to support and discipline officers who struggle with alcohol dependency. \nTHIRD PLACE\nSuperintendent Payout\nBy: Kara Kenney\, Kevin Finch and Susan BattWRTV-ABC \nA short\, anonymous letter to WRTV-ABC in Indianapolis tipped off staff that a retired school superintendent was being paid for serving as a “Supt. Emeritus”. Curious\, Reporter Kara Kenney began to investigate. What she found was a retired superintendent accepting a $1 million retirement package that no one seemed to know about. \nKenney\, along with News Director Kevin Finch and Special Projects Producer Susan Batt\, also learned that school board members had no idea just how much the board will ultimately pay out to the the retired superintendent. The WRTV-ABC team also discoverd that school board members took lavish trips and received other expensive perks at a time when the the district was making drastic cuts in the classroom. \nThe retired superintenent is no longer on the payroll and Indiana lawmakers are considering legislation that would require more transparency in superintendent contracts. \n HONORABLE MENTIONS\nWayne County Confidential: Government Run Amok \nBy: Ross Jones\, Heather Catallo\, Ann Mullen\, Johnny Sartin\, Randy Lundquist\, Ramon RosarioWXYZ-TV Detroit \nShattered Trust \nBy: Raquel Rutledge\, Rick Barrett\, John Diedrich\, Ben PostonMilwaukee Journal Sentinel URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/the-2012-richard-h-driehaus-foundation-awards-for-investigative-reporting/ CATEGORIES:Driehaus Awards END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120507T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120507T190000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T210229Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210229Z UID:7470-1336417200-1336417200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Pension Crisis - What's next for Chicago & Cook County? DESCRIPTION:It’s not just state pensions that are in trouble. The Cook County and Chicago public pension systems are also in crisis. In an effort to explore and discuss possible solutions\, the BGA is hosting its second forum on the public pension crisis\, this time with the focus on Chicago and Cook County. \nModerator:\nRobert Reed\, BGA Director of Programming & Investigations \nPanelists: \n\n\nBridget Gainer\, 10th District Cook County Commissioner \n\n\nLaurence Msall\, President\, The Civic Federation \n\n\nHank Scheff\, Director of Employee Benefits\, AFSCME Council 31 \n\n\nRalph Martire\, Executive Director\, Center for Tax and Budget Accountability \n\n\n*Special thanks to Roosevelt University for their support of this event. \nTo RSVP register online here or contact Joe Malinowski at the BGA: jmalinowski@bettergov.org or 312-821-9028. (Note: If the event reaches capacity\, email Joe to be placed on the wait list.) \nThis event is free and open to the public. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/pension-crisis-whats-next-for-chicago-cook-county/ LOCATION:Roosevelt University\, Congress Lounge\, 430 S Michigan Ave\, 2nd Floor\, Chicago\, 60605 CATEGORIES:Idea Forums END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120409T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120409T190000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T210229Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210229Z UID:7468-1333998000-1333998000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Fixing Illinois' Public Pensions DESCRIPTION:A Panel Discussion \nCo-hosted by the Better Government Association & the School of Communication\, Loyola University Chicago. \n\n\n\nModerator: Charles Thomas\, ABC 7 Reporter\nPanelists: \n\n\n Hon. Elaine Nekritz\, IL Representative\, 57th District \n\n\nHon. Darlene Senger\, IL Representative\, 96th District \n\n\nHenry Bayer\, Executive Director\, AFSCME Council 31 \n\n\nTy Fahner\, President of Civic Committee of The Commercial Club \n\n\nThis event is free and open to the public. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/fixing-illinois-public-pensions/ LOCATION:Regents Hall\, Lewis Towers\, 16th Fl\, 111 E Pearson St (Pearson and Rush)\, Chicago\, 60611 CATEGORIES:Idea Forums END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120227T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120227T183000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205814Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205814Z UID:7454-1330367400-1330367400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdogs of Education: Avondale DESCRIPTION:The BGA is holding a free training session at which you’ll learn about: \n\nthe governing structure of the Chicago Public Schools\,\nschool budgets\, and\nhow you can monitor what’s going on in your local schools.\n\nEducation experts will help you understand how schools operate and how budget decisions are made. You’ll also hear inspiring stories from regular citizens who have stepped up and made a difference in their local schools. If you want to understand what’s going on in your schools and you want to get involved\, we’ll show you how. Become a BGA Citizen Watchdog of Education! \nFor more information or to RSVP\, please contact Barb Macholz at 312-821-9025 or at bmacholz@bettergov.org. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdogs-of-education-avondale/ LOCATION:St. Hyacinth Basilica – Resurrection Hall Cafeteria (2nd Flr)\, 3636 W Wolfram Street\, Chicago\, 60618 CATEGORIES:Education Watchdogs END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120223T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120223T190000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 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:20120215T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120215T190000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205814Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205814Z UID:7453-1329332400-1329332400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Panel: Illinois Townships - Relevant or Redundant? DESCRIPTION:A Panel Discussion \nHosted by the Better Government Association   \nModerator: NBC 5 Reporter Phil Rogers\nPanelists: \n\n\nHon. Larry Suffredin\, 13th District Cook County Board District Commissioner\n\n\nEmily Miller\, BGA Policy & Government Affairs Coordinator \n\n\nBob Porter\, Township Officials of Cook County Administrative Coordinator \n\n\nSam Yingling\, Avon Township Supervisor \n \n\n\nThe event begins at 7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:30) \nTo RSVP register online here or contact Joe Malinowski at the BGA: jmalinowski@bettergov.org or 312-821-9028. \nThis event is free and open to the public. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/panel-illinois-townships-relevant-or-redundant/ LOCATION:Unitarian Church of Evanston\, 1330 Ridge Ave\, Evanston\, 60201 CATEGORIES:Idea Forums END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120111T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120111T173000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205630Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205630Z UID:7444-1326303000-1326303000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:FOIA Clinic: Downtown DESCRIPTION:Free FOIA Clinic\nQuestions about the Freedom of Information Act? Has your request been denied or ignored? \nSign up for a one-on-one session with an attorney at no charge.\nA scheduled appointment is necessary.\nPlease contact Barb Macholz: bmacholz@bettergov.org | 312-821-9025 URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/foia-clinic-downtown/ LOCATION:Center for Open Government\, Chicago-Kent College of Law\, Law Offices\, 565 W Adams St\, Ste 600\, Chicago\, 60661 CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20111207T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20111207T183000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 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:20111115T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20111115T183000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205615Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205615Z UID:7439-1321381800-1321381800@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Panel: High Costs of Wrongful Convictions DESCRIPTION:Moderated by Andy Shaw \nPresident & CEO\, Better Government Association \n \nFeaturing Andrea L. Zopp \nPresident & CEO\, Chicago Urban League \n  \nPanelists include: \nThe Honorable Kwame Raoul\, Illinois State Senator (D-13)\nThe Honorable Tommy Brewer\, 7th Judicial Subcircuit\, Chicago\nThe Center on Wrongful Convictions\nClick here to read the joint investigation by the Better Government Association and the Center on Wrongful Convictions. \nTo RSVP\, go to www.wrongfulconvictions.eventbrite.com or email Joe Malinowski at jmalinowski@bettergov.org. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/panel-high-costs-of-wrongful-convictions/ LOCATION:Chicago Urban League\, 4510 S Michigan Ave\, Chicago\, 60653 CATEGORIES:Idea Forums END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20111112T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20111112T090000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205615Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205615Z UID:7440-1321088400-1321088400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Special Edition: BGA Education Watchdogs at NAACP Fall Parent Conference DESCRIPTION:This all day parent conference will include workshops on: \n\nStudent Rights \nStudent Harassment \nCivil Rights 101 \nLocal School Council Overview \n BGA Education Watchdog Training \n\nAt the BGA Education Watchdog Training you’ll learn about: \n\nthe governing structure of the Chicago Public Schools\,\nschool budgets\, and\nhow you can monitor what’s going on in your local schools.\n\n  \nBGA workshops will take place at 10:30a.m. and 1:00p.m. \nEducation experts will help you understand how schools operate and how budget decisions are made. If you want to understand what’s going on in your schools and you want to get involved\, we’ll show you how. \nFor more information or to RSVP\, please contact Barb Macholz at 312-821-9025 or at bmacholz@bettergov.org. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/special-edition-bga-education-watchdogs-at-naacp-fall-parent-conference/ LOCATION:Austin Town Hall Park\, 5610 W Lake Street\, Chicago\, 60644 CATEGORIES:Education Watchdogs END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20111027T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20111027T183000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205829Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205829Z UID:7456-1319740200-1319740200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdogs of Education: South Side Citizen Training DESCRIPTION:The BGA is holding a training session at which you’ll learn about: \n\nthe governing structure of the Chicago Public Schools\,\nschool budgets\, and\nhow you can monitor what’s going on in your local schools.\n\nEducation experts will help you understand how schools operate and how budget decisions are made. You’ll also hear inspiring stories from regular citizens who have stepped up and made a difference in their local schools. If you want to understand what’s going on in your schools and you want to get involved\, we’ll show you how. Become a BGA Citizen Watchdog of Education! \nFor more information or to RSVP\, please contact Barb Macholz at 312-821-9025 or at bmacholz@bettergov.org. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdogs-of-education-south-side-citizen-training/ LOCATION:St. Columbanus School Hall\, 7120 S Calumet Ave\, Chicago\, 60619 CATEGORIES:Education Watchdogs END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20111012T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20111012T180000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 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:20111003T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20111003T110000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205800Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205800Z UID:7446-1317639600-1317639600@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Public Hearing on the High Costs of Wrongful Convictions DESCRIPTION:The hearing will stress the urgent need to reform the criminal justice system to prevent wrongful convictions. This hearing is the result of a BGA investigation with the Center on Wrongful Convictions that uncovered the high cost of wrongful convictions to taxpayers and the heavy human toll on those affected by wrongful convictions.  \nEighty-five cases of wrongful conviction have cost Illinois taxpayers $214 million since 1976\, the bulk of the expenses occurring in the last 20 years. In addition\, innocent men and women served a total of 926 years for crimes they did not commit. \nWe will be presenting testimony regarding the nature of our investigation\, our findings and our suggestions for reform.  Several wrongfully convicted witnesses will testify to their experiences. Community members will also have a chance to voice their concerns\, as will other advocates working on the issue. \nWe hope you’re able to attend the hearing– we feel it is vital to address this issue. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/public-hearing-on-the-high-costs-of-wrongful-convictions/ LOCATION:Michael A. Bilandic Building\, Room C-600\, 160 N LaSalle St\, Chicago\, 60601 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20111002T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20111002T120000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205630Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230428T213604Z UID:7445-1317556800-1317556800@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:2011 BGA Annual Luncheon DESCRIPTION:>> TICKET SALES CLOSED URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/2011-bga-annual-luncheon/ LOCATION:Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers\, 301 East North Water Street\, Chicago\, 60611 CATEGORIES:Fundraisers END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20110927T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20110927T180000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205800Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205800Z UID:7447-1317146400-1317146400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Free FOIA Clinic (Downtown) DESCRIPTION:Free FOIA Clinic\nSign up for a one-on-one sessions with an attorney at no charge.\nA scheduled appointment is necessary.\nPlease contact Barb Macholz: bmacholz@bettergov.org | 312-821-9025 URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/free-foia-clinic-downtown/ LOCATION:Center for Open Government\, Chicago-Kent College of Law\, 565 W Adams St\, Suite 600\, Chicago\, 60661 CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20110922T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20110922T120000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205800Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205800Z UID:7448-1316692800-1316692800@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Brownbag Lunch: A Review of the Lobbyist Registration Act DESCRIPTION:Panelists: \nDavid Weisbaum \nChief Deputy Director\, Index Department \nIllinois Secretary of State \n  \n  \nPaul Thompson \nLegal Counsel\, Office of the Inspector General \nIllinois Secretary of State \n  \nRSVP to Emily Miller at emiller@bettergov.org URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/brownbag-lunch-a-review-of-the-lobbyist-registration-act/ LOCATION:DePaul University College of Law\, Lewis Building 25 E. Jackson Blvd. Rm. 904\, Chicago\, 60605 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20110902T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20110902T180000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205630Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205630Z UID:7443-1314986400-1314986400@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Watchdogs of Education: Lawndale/North Lawndale DESCRIPTION:The BGA will hold regular training sessions throughout Chicago at which you’ll learn about: \n\nthe governing structure of the Chicago Public Schools\,\nschool budgets\, and\nhow you can monitor what’s going on in your local schools.\n\nEducation experts will help you understand how schools operate and how budget decisions are made. You’ll also hear inspiring stories from regular citizens who have stepped up and made a difference in their local schools. If you want to understand what’s going on in your schools and you want to get involved\, we’ll show you how. Become a BGA Citizen Watchdog of Education! \nFor more information or to RSVP\, please contact Barb Macholz at 312-821-9025 or at bmacholz@bettergov.org. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/watchdogs-of-education-lawndale-north-lawndale/ LOCATION:Douglass Branch Public Library\, 3353 W. 13th Street\, Chicago\, 60623 CATEGORIES:Education Watchdogs END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20110818T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20110818T183000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T205800Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205800Z UID:7449-1313692200-1313692200@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Citizen Watchdogs of Education Training - Albany Park DESCRIPTION:The BGA will hold regular training sessions throughout Chicago at which you’ll learn about: \n\nthe governing structure of the Chicago Public Schools\,\nschool budgets\, and\nhow you can monitor what’s going on in your local schools.\n\nEducation experts will help you understand how schools operate and how budget decisions are made. You’ll also hear inspiring stories from regular citizens who have stepped up and made a difference in their local schools. If you want to understand what’s going on in your schools and you want to get involved\, we’ll show you how. Become a BGA Citizen Watchdog of Education! \nFor more information or to RSVP\, please contact Barb Macholz at 312-821-9025 or at bmacholz@bettergov.org. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/citizen-watchdogs-of-education-training-albany-park/ LOCATION:Albany Park Autonomous Center\, 3460 West Lawrence Avenue\, Chicago\, 60625 CATEGORIES:Education Watchdogs END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20110803T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20110803T180000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 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:20110728T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20110728T180000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 CREATED:20220930T210829Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210829Z UID:7485-1311876000-1311876000@www.bettergov.org SUMMARY:Special Event: Dan Sprehe Memorial Benefit DESCRIPTION:BGA Investigators and Media Partners Open Their Notebooks: An Evening of the Wildest Stories.\nJoin the Young Professionals Board of the Better Government Association in celebrating the life and career of Dan Sprehe with an evening of spirited discussion about the inside workings of investigative journalism. \nFeatured guests: \n\nChris Fusco (Chicago Sun-Times)\nDane Placko (FOX News)\nPam Zekman (CBS 2 Chicago)\nModerated by David Hoffman (Sidley Austin LLP)\n\nProceeds from this benefit will support the establishment of the Dan Sprehe Memorial Chair within the BGA’s Investigative Unit to honor the distinguished\, albeit short\, career of Dan Sprehe. Dan passed away last September from complications related to diabetes. He was 32 years old. \nTickets are $40 per individual. Each ticket includes one Billy Goat hamburger\, french fries\, and your first drink. \nRegistration is closed. URL:https://www.bettergov.org/event/special-event-dan-sprehe-memorial-benefit/ LOCATION:Original Billy Goat Tavern\, 430 N Michigan Ave at Lower Level\, Chicago\, 60611 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20110623T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20110623T000000 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 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:20260405T083346 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260405T083346 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 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:20260405T083346 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260405T083346 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 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:20260405T083346 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260405T083346 DTSTAMP:20260405T083346 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 END:VCALENDAR