Feeds:
Posts
Comments

Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

McLaughlin Responds After Attending Congressional Hearing in Washington, D.C.

Posted in Deception, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Immigration, OP/Ed, Organizations, Politics, Press Release, Pritzker’s Rules of Order, Property Taxes, Resident Spotlights, Springfield, Taxes on June 13, 2025| 2 Comments »

Lake Barrington, IL – After attending a hearing today in Washington, D.C., Illinois State Representative Martin McLaughlin (R-52nd) issued the following statement:

“It’s simple: the Democrats want to take more of your money and give it to non-citizens.”

McLaughlin criticized both the federal direction and the Illinois leadership for prioritizing illegal migrants over the needs of American citizens—particularly Illinois taxpayers.

“When Governor Pritzker says that illegal migrants may be more worthy than many existing Illinois citizens, that’s not just outrageous—it’s offensive,” said McLaughlin. “It tells every hard-working Illinois family that their sacrifices come second to the governor’s political agenda. We have too many Illinois families whose loved ones have been hurt from his policies.”

The Representative emphasized that working families in Illinois are being taxed at record levels while basic public services are stretched thin.

“We are paying more and getting less,” McLaughlin continued. “State and federal leaders should be standing up for citizens, not funding a shadow system that rewards illegal entry and diverts billions from our schools, infrastructure, and senior care.”

Representative McLaughlin pledged to continue fighting for policies that protect taxpayers in Algonquin, Libertyville, the Barringtons, Fox River Grove, Island Lake, and Wauconda.

“We need to respect the rule of law, and put Illinois citizens first,” he concluded.

###

Read Full Post »

DAR Dedicates Patriot Marker in Barrington’s Memorial Park

Posted in Press Release, Signal Hill NSDAR, The Greatest Generation on May 23, 2025| Leave a Comment »

(L-R) Signal Hill Member Jackie Markus; DAR IL State America 250! Chair Jamie Atchinson; DAR IL District IV Director Audra Gray; fifth grade winner of Signal Hill’s 2025 History Essay Contest Genevieve Haradon; Signal Hill Regent Joyce Wright; and Village of Barrington President Karen Darch.

Members of Signal Hill Chapter, NSDAR, dedicated a bronze marker honoring “Revolutionary War Patriots” to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution that will be observed nationally in 2026. The marker was unveiled at Barrington’s Memorial Park on May 10, 2025. This event marked a significant milestone in celebrating our nation’s history and honoring the Patriots who contributed to its founding.

It was an inspiring occasion that brought together Village of Barrington’s President Karen Darch and other Village Trustees, Barrington residents, DAR State and National dignitaries, BSA Boy Scout Troop 10, along with nineteen members of DAR’s Signal Hill Chapter. It is just the start of remembering the invaluable contributions of the nation’s founders and those Patriots who fought for freedom and liberty.

The Signal Hill Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) was chartered fifty years ago in Barrington, IL in 1972. NSDAR is a volunteer women’s service organization headquartered in Washington, DC.

DAR members promote historic preservation, education and patriotism via commemorative events, scholarships and educational initiatives, citizenship programs, service to veterans, meaningful community service, and more.

Since the national organization was founded in 1890, over one million women have joined NSDAR. Membership is open to any woman aged eighteen and over who can prove lineal descent from a Patriot of the American Revolution. For more information about the Barrington, IL-based chapter, visit signalhilldar.com.

Read Full Post »

Hemmens Cultural Center unveils $14.4 million expansion with May 18 celebration

Posted in Elgin Symphony Orchestra, Entertainment, Organizations, Press Release, Topics Of Interest on May 17, 2025| Leave a Comment »

After a $14.4 billion renovation, Elgin’s Hemmens Cultural Center unveils expanded space with a public open house on May 18 featuring entertainment, arts groups, and circus performers 360 ALLSTARS | Courtesy of Hemmens Cultural Center

By Tony Lentino, Hemmens Cultural Center

After years of planning, community input and a recently completed three-year construction project, the Hemmens Cultural Center in Elgin will officially open its doors to the public on Sunday, May 18, to unveil a $14.4 million expansion.

The celebration begins at 2:30 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by an afternoon of live entertainment, immersive experiences and a thrilling headline performance that promises to captivate audiences of all ages.

“It’s beyond exciting to have finally brought the vision and dedication of so many to fruition,” said Amanda Harris, director of Cultural Arts & Special Events. “Having a beautifully renovated space that serves the community and stands as a cultural icon in our region — right here in our own backyard — is such a privilege. We intend to make the most of it by showcasing some amazing talent while also elevating the audience experience.”

Guests are invited to explore the newly renovated space, enjoy complimentary refreshments and engage with local arts organizations, highlighting Elgin’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

The 360 ALLSTARS performance, on their 10th Anniversary World Tour, will be performing at the May 18 celebration at the Hemmens in Elgin. | Courtesy of 360 ALLSTARS

Attendees will also get an exclusive preview of the upcoming 2025-26 performance season and discover what makes the Hemmens Cultural Center a cornerstone of the arts in the Fox Valley.

The celebration continues at 4 p.m. with a high-energy performance by 360 ALLSTARS, the internationally acclaimed urban circus phenomenon. Featuring BMX stunts, breakdancing, acrobatics, basketball, drumming and more, the show fuses street culture with elite athleticism in a spectacle that has captivated audiences on Broadway, the Sydney Opera House and around the world.

As part of their 10th Anniversary World Tour, 360 ALLSTARS brings their globally recognized talents to Elgin for one day only. Backed by award-winning musicians and cutting-edge visuals, this performance offers an unforgettable experience for families, arts lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Tickets are just $5. For tickets, go to hemmens.org.

Read Full Post »

Rep. Martin McLaughlin, Republican Lawmakers Unveil Over $5 Billion in Budget Savings

Posted in Deception, Ethics, Immigration, Politics, Press Release, Pritzker’s Rules of Order, Property Taxes, Springfield, Taxes on May 14, 2025| 2 Comments »

Rep. Martin McLaughlin, R-Barrington Hills

Barrington, IL – State Representative Martin McLaughlin (R-52) joined Republican colleagues, Chris Miller, Brad Halbrook, Adam Niemerg, Jed Davis, and Blaine Wilhour, today to unveil an alternative budget proposal identifying over $5 billion in savings. McLaughlin is challenging Governor Pritzker and the Democratic majority to prioritize the needs of Illinois citizens over unsustainable spending and sanctuary state policies.

“One year ago, I warned the Governor that his reckless spending priorities would drive Illinois into a significant deficit,” said McLaughlin. “Unfortunately, that prediction has come true. In the coming weeks, we fully expect the Democrats to present a $55 billion budget proposal filled with significant tax hikes in an attempt to balance the books.”

McLaughlin and fellow lawmakers highlighted wasteful spending on programs directing taxpayer money to non-governmental organizations that support illegal migrants—beyond the $1.6 billion Illinois spent on migrant healthcare last year.

“We must stop funding sanctuary state policies and start funding Illinois citizens’ needs,” McLaughlin said. “Whether you’re a Democrat, Independent, or Republican, it doesn’t matter—we all take the same oath: to protect and serve the public health and well-being of Illinois citizens, not the world’s population.”

At today’s press conference, McLaughlin and other legislators presented an alternative budget framework outlining more than $5 billion in potential savings. They also called for a full audit and review of costly programs like Medicaid to ensure responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

“It’s time we invest in actual engineering—not social engineering,” said McLaughlin. “We need our public-school proficiency scores to improve and show a real return on the state’s increased spending. If the federal government can find savings, so can Illinois. We cannot allow our state’s economy to revolve solely around government jobs and moving companies. We must reduce spending, cut inflation, and deliver real results for residents—not just in the 52nd District, but across the entire state.”

###

Read Full Post »

Public Invited to A Tribute to American Patriots at Barrington’s Memorial Park

Posted in Press Release, Signal Hill NSDAR, The Greatest Generation on April 29, 2025| Leave a Comment »

As part of the ongoing “America 250! Project” to honor and remember the valiant efforts of the patriots who fought for American independence, the Barrington-based Signal Hill Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) cordially invites the public to a special event at Barrington’s Memorial Park on Hough Street. The event will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., marking the unveiling of a commemorative marker dedicated to the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.

Join other Barrington community members to commemorate this significant milestone at this free public unveiling and dedication of a specially-crafted bronze Patriot Marker.  Attendees are encouraged to dress for the predicted weather conditions at this outdoor venue.

The commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution is not only a tribute to the past but also a reminder of the enduring values that shaped our nation. This event will honor the sacrifices of the patriots and reaffirm a commitment to the principles of freedom and democracy that define the United States of America.

Please join us on May 10, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Barrington’s Memorial Park to celebrate and memorialize our country’s history. All are welcome to participate and help make this event a meaningful and memorable tribute to the American Revolution and the patriots who fought for our nation’s independence.

Read Full Post »

State Representative Martin McLaughlin Statement regarding the April 1st Election

Posted in Elections, Illinois State Board of Elections, OP/Ed, Politics, Press Release, Resident Spotlights, Springfield, Topics Of Interest on April 9, 2025| 2 Comments »

Representative Martin McLaughlin (R) 52nd District

Illinois’ recent consolidated elections have sent a clear and undeniable message: mail-in ballot initiatives targeting low-propensity voters work. Not only do they boost turnout in general elections, but they’re also quietly and effectively increasing participation in local, consolidated elections—the very elections where most of your hard-earned tax dollars are spent.

For more than two and a half years, I’ve urged Republican leaders at every level—party officials, county chairs, and consultants—to invest in low-propensity Republican voter outreach through vote-by-mail registration. Unfortunately, many of those conversations have fallen on deaf ears. There remains a stubborn belief that door-knocking alone is the silver bullet. I support knocking on doors—if we’re also registering voters for mail-in ballots while we do it. But we’re not. Why? Because some still believe it’s unpatriotic to make voting more convenient.

That belief might carry weight—if our voters actually turned out. But they didn’t. In the most recent cycle, turnout in some areas was a dismal 12% to 16%. That’s not only discouraging—it’s devastating. Meanwhile, Democrats maintain a 2-to-1 or even 3-to-1 advantage in mail-in ballot returns. And it’s working.

When Grandma receives her ballot in late January or September, it sits on her kitchen table, quietly nudging her to vote. She might ask a friend, a neighbor, or a relative, “Who should I vote for in the school board or park district race?” That ballot becomes a conversation starter—and more often than not, it gets mailed back. That simple process is helping tip the scales in local elections across Illinois in favor of progressive candidates.

It’s long past time for Republican leadership to stop ignoring this reality. We must build, fund, and execute a comprehensive low-propensity mail-in registration program in Illinois. Doing so would make it far more difficult for candidates who don’t reflect balanced or conservative values to coast to victory by default.

Money alone doesn’t win elections-smart money does. And this is the smartest investment we can make in the next 18 months.

To put this in perspective: in state elections, a well-funded Republican campaign typically spends around $10 per vote. Democrats, who often enjoy a significant financial advantage, routinely spend three to ten times that amount in top-tier races. But when we successfully register a Republican or right-leaning independent for mail-in voting, we’re not just gaining one vote—we’re gaining up to 20 votes per ballot across down-ballot races. That drives the cost per vote down to about 50 cents—an incredible return on investment.

I’ve seen these results firsthand. I recently won in a district that leans 52.7% Democrat. I had no financial support from state party leadership. What I did have was 70 dedicated volunteers, a year and a half of strategic low-propensity targeting, and a mail-in ballot program. That is what made the difference—not blind door-knocking, not last-minute yard signs, and certainly not candidate charisma.

We must stop putting forward candidates with no community ties, asking them to quit their jobs and knock on doors for two years, and then failing to equip them with the infrastructure that actually turns out votes. We must stop pretending we can out-organize the left in person while they’re winning by mail—from dorm rooms, beach vacations, and kitchen tables across Illinois.

Meanwhile, we cling to outdated traditions—standing in six inches of snow, braving freezing rain, waiting in long lines, taking time off work—believing our neighbors are doing the same. Sadly, they’re not. At least not our Republican and conservative-leaning neighbors. We need to stop trying to hail cabs in an Uber or Lyft economy. We certainly aren’t cabbing or Ubering to our polling places in numbers required to win.

Change in Illinois is possible. But only if we adapt. We have 18 months. Let’s stop arguing—and start organizing.

Sincerely,

Martin J. McLaughlin
Illinois State Representative, 52nd District

Read Full Post »

Darby Hills Sworn In to Represent Illinois’ 26th Senate District

Posted in Animal Welfare, Appointments, Barrington Education Association, BOHICA, Clown Car, Deception, Dinky, Ethics, FOIA, FUBAR, Goat Rodeo, Look For The Union Label, Massbach Hounds, New Normal?, Politics, Press Release, Resident Spotlights, Springfield, The Chicago Way, Transparency, Unions, Village Government, Wikipedia on February 28, 2025| 2 Comments »

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 28th, 2025

BARRINGTON HILLS, IL – Darby Hills has officially been sworn in as the new State Senator for Illinois’ 26th Senate District, bringing a lifelong commitment to public service and advocacy for children and families to the Illinois Senate. A dedicated community leader, Hills has served as a trustee on the Barrington Hills Village Board and is the founder of Barrington Children’s Charity, which provides meals to hundreds of children each week.

“I am honored to officially represent the 26th District in the Illinois Senate, and my mission is clear— fighting for the families who make this community strong. We must support parents, create opportunities for kids to succeed, and ensure government works for the people, not against them,” said Hills. “I will fight to cut taxes, hold government accountable and advance policies that grow our economy. I will bring the voices of families to Springfield and work every day to build a better future for the next generation.”

Hills’ commitment to public service is deeply personal. Raised in a working-class household by a single mother, she understands the challenges families face and has dedicated her career to making a difference. Through Barrington Children’s Charity, she has helped ensure that 525 children receive meals each week in Barrington-area schools. As a Barrington Hills trustee, she has fought to keep taxes low, rein in wasteful spending, and hold government accountable.

A former Cook County prosecutor and attorney, Hills brings both legal expertise and real-world experience to the Senate. She is also a wife and mother of three, giving her a firsthand perspective on the issues that matter most to families.

As she begins her service in the Illinois Senate, Hills is focused on providing relief for taxpayers, ensuring government is transparent and accountable, and promoting policies that strengthen the economy. She is committed to supporting families, expanding opportunities for children, and making sure the voices of her constituents are heard in Springfield.

###

Source

Related: “Darby Hills chosen — again — to succeed Dan McConchie in state Senate,” “’The Fix’ is in?,” “Darby Hills’ appointment to state Senate on hold as Republicans reopen applications for McConchie’s seat,” “26th Legislative District Committee meeting cancelled,” “State Senator seat at any price?,” ”26th Legislative District Committee meeting tomorrow,” “Do Over Scheduled for Meeting to Replace State Senator Dan McConchie,” “Restraining order sought to block 26th Senate appointment amid legal fight,” “Lawsuit challenges legality of GOP appointment to 26th State Senate seat,” “McConchie’s would-be successor isn’t a Republican and can’t serve, lawsuit alleges,” “Darby Hills Appointed as New State Senator for Illinois’ 26th Senate District”

Read Full Post »

26th Legislative District Committee meeting tomorrow

Posted in Dinky, Elections, Politics, Press Release on February 20, 2025| 1 Comment »

For Immediate Release
February 20th, 2025
Contact: Derek@isrvf.com

Interested Parties –

The 26th Legislative District Committee for the Republican Party announced a vacancy in the State Senate due to the resignation of Dan McConchie after years of dedicated and honorable service. The Committee will meet and work to appoint a replacement who will serve the remainder of Senator McConchie’s term in the 104th General Assembly.

In accordance with 10 ILCS 5/25-6(a), vacancies created in the General Assembly must be filled within 30 days.

The members of the Legislative District Committee are determined by statute. The 26th Legislative District Committee is made up of the following Republican leaders from the 26th Legislative District:

Keith Brin (Lake County)
Jeff Thorsen (McHenry County)
Andro Lerario (Kane County)
Aaron Del Mar (Palatine Township)
Peter Kopsaftis (Barrington Township)

The Committee will convene at 1:00pm on Friday, February 21, 2025, to appoint the replacement for this vacancy. The meeting will be held at 765 N. Quentin Road, Palatine, Illinois, and is open to the public.

For general information, please contact Derek Murphy at derek@isrvf.com

Source

Related: “Do Over Scheduled for Meeting to Replace State Senator Dan McConchie,” “Restraining order sought to block 26th Senate appointment amid legal fight,” “Lawsuit challenges legality of GOP appointment to 26th State Senate seat,” “McConchie’s would-be successor isn’t a Republican and can’t serve, lawsuit alleges,” “Darby Hills Appointed as New State Senator for Illinois’ 26th Senate District”

Read Full Post »

Darby Hills Appointed as New State Senator for Illinois’ 26th Senate District

Posted in Appointments, Clown Car, Contests, Dumb and Dumber, Elections, Ethics, FUBAR, Goat Rodeo, Mad Cows, New Normal?, Politics, Press Release, Resident Spotlights, SNAFU, The Chicago Way, Village Board, Village Government, WTF on February 15, 2025| 3 Comments »

Darby Hills

BARRINGTON HILLS, IL – Darby Hills, 49, a dedicated advocate for children and families, has been selected as the new State Senator for Illinois’ 26th Senate District.

A trustee on the Barrington Hills Village Board and founder of Barrington Children’s Charity, Hills has spent years fighting for children in need, ensuring they have the support and resources to thrive.

“I am honored to serve as the next State Senator for the 26th District.

“This isn’t just about policy for me—it’s personal.

“I know firsthand the impact a little support can have on a child’s future, and I’m eager to bring that perspective to Springfield,” said Hills.

“Whether it’s fighting for families, keeping taxes low, or ensuring government remains accountable, I will work every day to make a real difference.

“This community has given me so much, and I’m committed to being a strong voice for it in Springfield.”

Through Barrington Children’s Charity, Hills has led an all-volunteer effort that provides meals to 525 children each week across Barrington-area school districts.

Her passion for helping those less fortunate stems from her own experience growing up in a low-income household with a single mother, receiving the same kind of hand-up she now works to give others.

As a trustee on the Barrington Hills Village Board, Hills has been a strong advocate for keeping taxes low, responsible budgeting, and accountable government.

She has worked to rein in wasteful spending, protect taxpayers, and ensure local government serves residents efficiently.

Her leadership reflects a commitment to good governance—principles she will continue to champion in Springfield.

She will also fight to create a pro-business environment that supports local job creators and strengthens Illinois’ economy.

A former Cook County prosecutor and an attorney by trade, Hills has built a career rooted in service.

In addition to her legal and charitable work, she is a wife and mother of three, bringing both professional expertise and personal experience to the issues affecting families.

“Darby’s dedication to children and families, along with her experience as a prosecutor and local leader, make her an invaluable addition to our team,” said Senate Republican Leader John Curran (R-Downers Grove).

“She brings a deeply personal perspective to the fight for Illinois’ most vulnerable children—one that will drive real change in Springfield.

“I look forward to working alongside her as she advocates for pro-growth policies to lift up Illinois families and businesses.”

– From the Illinois Senate Republican Victory Fund

Editorial note: This is NO JOKE, but it’s understandable if some are laughing. You CANNOT make this (stuff) up!

Read Full Post »

McLaughlin: Best Opportunity to Retain the 26th District Senate Seat

Posted in Elections, Politics, Press Release, Resident Spotlights, Springfield on January 29, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Rep. Martin McLaughlin, R-Barrington Hills

Barrington Hills, IL — Martin McLaughlin, a proven Republican leader and experienced public servant, has formally announced his interest in filling the 26th District Senate seat following Senator Dan McConchie’s upcoming resignation.

McLaughlin has extensive experience advocating for common sense policies and fiscal stewardship in the region for over a decade. His record of winning elections in challenging districts and his dedication to conservative principles make him the strongest candidate to retain the seat and ensure future Republican success.

“Many of you know my record of service, not only at the local level, but across the state,” McLaughlin said. “As a three-time elected State Representative and twice-elected Village President of Barrington Hills, I’ve consistently demonstrated my ability to win against well- funded opponents and deliver results for my constituents.”

McLaughlin highlighted his recent initiatives to engage low-propensity voters in Lake and McHenry Counties, which have already proven beneficial to Republican candidates. He emphasized his unique ability to energize voters and secure victories in a competitive district.

“In my last election, I faced a $3.8 million opposition effort and still won decisively— outperforming President Trump by over 5% in the 52nd District, while spending only $170,000. This demonstrates my ability to stick to the real issues that matter to my constituents and allows me to effectively represent a purple district,” McLaughlin stated.

McLaughlin also addressed concerns about insider politics and nepotism, referencing Senator McConchie’s recommendation of the party chairwoman’s son for the seat. “Republicans have rightly criticized Democrats for engaging in such practices. The 26th District deserves a candidate with a proven record, not one selected through insider politics. Republicans believe in merit-based selection. If the committee chooses to go down this path, I will actively campaign for the seat in the 2026 primary – and I will win”.

Looking ahead, McLaughlin is confident in his ability to lead Republican efforts in the next election cycle, where 16 Republican Senate seats will be up for grabs. “I’m prepared to raise the resources necessary and ensure that our party succeeds, both in the 26th District and across the state,” he said.

While McLaughlin has expressed willingness to participate in a virtual interview, he strongly advocates for an in-person discussion to provide the best opportunity for dialogue and decision- making.

“I am committed to strengthening our Senate messaging and ensuring Republican victories. Together, we can demonstrate that Republicans can win in competitive districts and beyond,” McLaughlin concluded.

About Martin McLaughlin

Martin McLaughlin is a pension investment advisor and a dedicated Republican leader with extensive experience in public service. He has been elected three times as a State Representative in the 52nd District and twice as Village President of Barrington Hills. McLaughlin is known for his grassroots campaigns, ability to breakdown complex fiscal issues, and commitment to conservative values, which allows McLaughlin to consistently deliver results for his constituents.

For further inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact Martin McLaughlin at 847-721-5014

###

Related: “Sen. Dan McConchie announces resignation”

Read Full Post »

« Newer Posts - Older Posts »