Better Government Association

It was announced this morning that I would serve on behalf of the Better Government Association as the co-chair of the Public Corruption sub-committee for Cook County State’s Attorney-Elect Eileen O’Neill Burke’s transition team. As we have seen in recent years and given the ongoing public corruption cases going on in Illinois, this sub-committee is more important than ever. Public corruption can take on many forms, including but not limited to; bribery, patronage, election fraud, embezzlement and kickbacks. The Supreme Court ruling in Snyder v. United States can potentially open the door to more corruption and reduce the level of federal oversight. It is imperative that we study and recommend ways in which state and local prosecutors have the tools necessary to take on this vital work. I look forward to serving on the committee and collaborating with the team to make recommendations moving forward.

Join South Side Weekly and the Illinois Answers Project as we team up to answer your most asked questions about the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to find out what’s going on behind closed doors. We’ll answer any questions you have about using investigative journalism tools to get more transparency and accountability from governmental agencies. This workshop will be held on Zoom. Topics we will cover: → How do I determine what to request? → What documents are subject to FOIA? → What does FOIA law cover? → How do I write a a successful FOIA request? → What do I do if my request is denied? Learn more and register here: https://lnkd.in/gEGGVs5m

Join us for a deep dive into the challenges and solutions surrounding Illinois’ pension system with insights from key policymakers. This discussion will serve as a way to engage with leaders shaping the future of Illinois. Date: October 15, 2024 Location: The Ivy Room at Tree Studios Time: 11:30 a.m. –1:30 p.m. CST Buy your tickets here: https://lnkd.in/gFwREhPT

Last week, we hosted our Annual Luncheon & Celebration, raising an impressive $1,374,325 (gross) thanks to nearly 300 civic, business and philanthropic leaders. We had a great program! After opening remarks from President & CEO David Greising, we honored D. Carroll Joynes, a dedicated civic leader and BGA board member, with the 2024 Daniel L. Goodwin Watchdog Award for his outstanding work as a teacher, scholar, and philanthropist and his decade-long commitment to the BGA's mission. The luncheon featured a timely discussion with BGA President David Greising and Chicago Inspector General Deborah Witzburg, who highlighted key challenges in reforming government and promoting integrity. You can watch both parts of the program on our YouTube channel here: https://lnkd.in/gUgtm3kz

Join the Better Government Association for lunch on October 15th as we go into a deep dive on Illinois pensions and potential solutions with an all star panel of decision makers. Deputy Governor Andy Manar, Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, Rep. Steven Reick and Sen. Rob Martwick will join the BGA for a great discussion! Tickets are limited. RSVP Here: https://lnkd.in/gk_6C67j

I was so delighted to speak at the Better Government Association annual luncheon. Thank you so much, David Greising, for the conversation. (Video here! https://lnkd.in/gUmTPdcz)

Here at the Illinois Answers Project, we recently spent months investigating how county jails use what are known as “restraint chairs” – controversial devices that advocacy groups say are prone to misuse and abuse. Join reporter Grace Hauck on a video call tomorrow at 1 p.m. to learn more about how you can work with us to expand the investigation into your area. Learn more and register here: https://lnkd.in/dTM7wcdi

Our Annual Luncheon & Celebration is tomorrow! We'd like to thank our Platinum Sponsors for their support and commitment to the BGA's mission.

Our Annual Luncheon & Celebration is this Thursday! We'd like to thank our Second Century Council for their support and commitment to the BGA's mission. If you'd like to join us for this celebration, you can register here: https://lnkd.in/dkWq_sx3

Looking forward to our Annual Luncheon & Celebration, we'd like to thank Co-Chairs John A. Canning, Jr. and Heather A. Steans for their generosity and commitment to the BGA's mission. If you'd like to join us for this celebration, you can register here: https://lnkd.in/dkWq_sx3