SPRINGFIELD – Thanks to strong support from State Senator Doris Turner, the Springfield area received a combined total of $1.8 million from the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant to help continue ongoing improvements.

“Our neighborhood parks are a part of our community,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Investing in local parks provides a place for people to gather, enjoy and explore.”

OSLAD is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. It’s become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. Since its establishment, OSLAD has awarded $675 million for park projects throughout Illinois.

The city of Springfield received $600,000 to make improvements at Lake Springfield Center Park and the Springfield Park District received $600,000 to redevelop Dreamland Park.

"The Park District is grateful to Senator Turner for her consistent support in improving the quality of life for her constituents,” said Springfield Park District Board President Leslie Sgro. “This grant to upgrade Dreamland Park in Springfield will provide another generation the opportunity to make positive memories building on the already rich history of the park."

The Village of Grandview was awarded $600,000 to build an outdoor sports complex featuring two bocce ball and pickle ball courts, two soccer fields, a basketball court and a 5-foot-wide concrete walking path at the site. The park also will be graded for storm water prevention and have a fence around the north and east side.

“This project represents far more than new courts and walking paths. It represents opportunity, equity and investment in the people of Grandview,” said Village President Maria “Mia” Ray. “For a small, economically challenged community like ours, OSLAD funding is the difference between having a vision and being able to bring that vision to life.”

Visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website for more information on the OSLAD grants.

SPRINGFIELD – To show appreciation and lift the spirits of local seniors, State Senator Doris Turner is collecting cards for residents in long-term care facilities for Valentine’s Day.

“Writing a card or small note to our seniors is an easy way to show our appreciation for them,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Each year we have dropped off hundreds of cards that truly make each and every one of them smile. Let’s come together to make sure our seniors know they are important to our communities.”

Turner is encouraging residents to write handmade or store-bought cards to help bring joy to older adults living in various senior facilities across the 48th District. Children are also encouraged to participate.

Cards can be mailed or delivered now through Feb. 11 to Turner’s Capitol office located at 401 S. Spring St., Section F, Office B or Turner’s Decatur office located at 1210 S. Jasper St.

For more information, contact Turner’s office at 217-782-0228.

SPRINGFIELD – In response to the horrific murder of Sonya Massey, State Senator Doris Turner worked to address police hiring practices. A comprehensive review of prospective law enforcement officers prior to hiring will be required starting Jan. 1.

“The murder of Sonya Massey shattered our community,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This is something that happens on TV – not in my hometown and not involving someone that is an integral part of my life. Since then, I have worked diligently to bring justice for Sonya, the only thing her mother asked for.”

Turner’s law requires law enforcement agencies to conduct a more comprehensive review of a prospective officer’s past employment to ensure his or her fitness for duty as a police officer before making an offer of employment.

To ensure the highest degree of integrity and professionalism in the hiring process of sheriff’s deputies and other personnel, Turner’s law expands the creation of sheriff’s merit boards and sheriff’s merit commissions for counties with a population of at least 75,000.

“With this law in effect, I feel confident that going forward our communities and law enforcement will build a trusting relationship,” said Turner. “Now, I will have kept my promise to my friend and Sonya’s mother.”

Senate Bill 1953 takes effect Jan. 1.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner is kicking off her annual holiday card drive to spread cheer this holiday season for residents at local long-term care facilities.

“We often lose track of what’s most important this season – and that’s spreading joy,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Everyone enjoys a small, yet meaningful, act of kindness during the holidays.”

Turner is encouraging residents to write handmade or store-bought cards to help bring joy to older adults who may be feeling lonely or isolated during the holidays. Children are also encouraged to participate.

Cards can be mailed or delivered now through Dec. 17 to Turner’s Capitol office located at 401 S. Spring St., Section F, Office B, Springfield, IL 62706 or Turner’s Decatur office located at 1210 S. Jasper St., Decatur, IL 62321.

For more information, contact Turner’s office at 217-782-0228.