SPRINGFIELD – Route 66 enthusiasts and Springfield tourists will soon have a new interactive exhibit to enjoy thanks to the support of State Senator Doris Turner.

“Sharing our history with tourists is common for the Springfield community, but I am so proud that we will have a special emphasis on Black History when we talk about Route 66,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “The City of Springfield and partnering communities along Route 66 will be using the latest technology to not just tell these stories but educate a new generation and lift up voices that were previously ignored.”

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced $4 million in grant awards for various projects including a Springfield project designed to spur tourism and modernize attractions along the Mother Road leading up to the 100th Anniversary of Route 66.

DCEO awarded Visit Springfield, the city Convention and Visitors Bureau, a $1,170,523 grant meant to create an interactive metaverse using augmented reality and virtual reality. The exhibit will focus on the lived experiences of Black Americans traveling or living in communities along Route 66 throughout history. The funding will also support a separate exhibit at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, featuring a replica of the entirety of Route 66, nostalgic signage and more.

“Springfield is the heart of Route 66 in Illinois,” Turner said. “I am proud to help bring new technology that will tell the story of a community that has not adequately had their voice heard.”

For regular updates on funding opportunities and resources available for businesses and communities, people can visit the DCEO website.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) championed a recently signed law to ensure unbanked communities can establish a more equitable opportunity for residents.

“There are millions of people around the country, who due to the barriers of account balances and minimum deposit requirements, do not have a reliable bank,” Turner said. “This law will allow for communities to take a stand and create the conditions that allow for a more equitable banking experience.”

Under Turner’s law, an Illinois Banking Development District program will be created to encourage the establishment of banking branches into communities where there is the greatest need for banking services.

New York State’s Banking Department started the Banking Development District program in 1997. Under the program, the state agency incentivizes banks to establish new branches in communities with little to no branches.

“Creating a reliable banking program in communities across the state will economically liberate people and allow them to participate in the financial process,” Turner said.

House Bill 5194 was signed into law on Friday and goes into effect on January 1st, 2023.

SPRINGFIELD – As summer weather quickly approaches central Illinois, State Senator Doris Turner is encouraging residents to take up a new outdoor hobby like wingshooting.

“Summer is almost here, and I hope everyone gets a chance to spend quality time outdoors with the people that matter most,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Wingshooting is a great opportunity for quality bonding time while also getting some much-needed Vitamin D.”

Introductory wingshooting clinics teach participants to safely shoot a shotgun at a moving target. The clinic starts with a shotgun safety presentation followed by a small-group, hands-on shotgun orientation session with each group’s wingshooting instructor.

Wingshooting clinics are taught by instructors certified by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources or the National Sporting Clays Association. Not only do participants learn to safely handle and shoot a shotgun, but they also enjoy learning these things in a low-stress, fun environment.

The co-sponsors for this event are Capital Area Coveys Quail Forever, National Wild Turkey Federation, New Salem Firearms and Ducks Unlimited Tri-County Chapter.

The registration fee is $10 for the clinics, which will take place on June 11 and 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is provided. Register online here.