Hastings appointed to serve as Senate’s Veterans Affairs Chair

• Veterans

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Michael E. Hastings was appointed Chair of the Illinois State Senate’s Veterans Affairs Committee.

“Our veterans selflessly served our country and they deserve nothing but the best state services,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “I look forward to continuing my 25 year career of public service as a soldier and a State

Senator in the role of the Chair of the Illinois State Senate Veterans Affairs Committee. We have made monumental achievements in helping our veterans over the last decade, and I am certain that we will accomplish much more in the future.”

Hastings is one of two military veterans in the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus.

Following his graduation from United States Military Academy at West Point, Hastings rose to the rank of Captain while deployed in support of the Global War on Terrorism. On July 4, 2006, he was deployed to Iraq as a part of “The Surge.”

Throughout his deployment, Hastings served as the Aide-de-Camp to the Commanding General of the 1st Infantry Division (Forward), coordinating air, ground and security movements throughout Iraq. For meritorious service in a combat zone, Hastings was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and 1st Infantry Division combat patch.

After ten years of distinguished service Hastings was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army.

“I look forward to a continued collaboration with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle on how we can work together to improve our veterans' quality of life," said Hastings.

He pledges to continue on his commitment to uplifting our nation’s heroes in his new role.

During Hastings’ time in the Senate, he has passed a number of initiatives to provide and connect veterans with mental health resources, prevent the exploitation of veterans and promote the availability of free service programs, expand access to the MIA/POW Scholarships and increase funding at our state’s veterans homes.

Hastings urges those connected with veterans’ organizations or individuals with ideas on improving access to state programs to contact his office at (815) 464-5431 to share their input on how Illinois can continue to improve services to our nation’s heroes.

Hastings and Frankfort Park District invite residents to Ninja Park grand opening

FRANKFORT – State Senator Michael E. Hastings and the Frankfort Park District invite families and neighbors to attend the grand opening of the new Ninja Park on Tuesday, July 25 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Lincoln Meadows Ninja Park located at 300 Elm St. in Frankfort.

“This new park will serve as a fun, new recreation stop for our families, young ninja aficionados and neighbors,” said Hastings (D- Frankfort). “I am proud to have partnered with Frankfort Park District and community members to bring this park to fruition. This new park will serve as an integral part of our healthy, happy community.”

The grand opening event will include music, time trials, ice cream treats and other fun activities.

Read more …

Hastings partners with area lawmakers to host Orland Hills recycling event

ORLAND HILLS – State Senator Michael E. Hastings is partnering with Mayor Kyle R. Hastings and Orland Township Highway Commissioner Antonio Rubio to host a one-stop recycling event on Saturday, Aug. 26 from noon to 2 p.m. at Kelly Park, located at16553 Haven Ave. in Orland Hills.

“Our goal is to provide residents with a safe and secure way to dispose of confidential documents that they no longer need,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “I encourage residents to take advantage of this free recycling event and unload small household appliances they no longer need.”

To accommodate all participants, each person will be limited to two boxes of residential shredding. Boxes and bags will be returned. Documents will be accepted for shredding until trucks reach capacity.

Read more …

Hastings announces Matteson set to receive nearly $27 million to improve local roads and highways

MATTESON – State Senator Michael E. Hastings is excited to announce that the Village of Matteson is set to receive $26.6 million in investments to improve local roads and highways.

“Our highways and roads serve as a lifeline,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “These improvements to I-57, US 30 and Central Avenue will connect residents with economic opportunities, education and health services and improve our quality of life.”

As part of IDOT’s latest Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, Matteson, which Hastings represents, will see nine infrastructure projects totaling more than $26 million over the next six years.

“This will make a tremendous impact on the Southland Region, and the Village of Matteson is appreciative of State Senator Hastings’ efforts,” said Matteson Mayor Sheila Chalmers-Currin.

Read more …