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Harris highlights over $700,000 in funding for local apprenticeship programs HOMEWOOD – State Senator Napoleon Harris III helped secure a $765,000 state grant through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program for Ascending Knowledge Community Outreach International in Harvey and Chicagoland Prison Outreach in South Holland. “I’m glad to see residents of our community will get to take advantage of the Illinois Works program,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “Pre-apprenticeship programs like this are a critical pathway for ensuring Illinoisans are offered a chance to participate in the building trades, especially for people who haven’t previously been exposed to the option of trade school.” The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 with the goal of increasing diversity and access to apprenticeship programs. Comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide
a greater opportunity to obtain employment in the construction trades and secure a lifelong career. In the district Harris represents, two local programs received a combined total of $765,000 through the program: · Ascending Knowledge Community Outreach International - $325,000 · Chicagoland Prison Outreach - $440,000 Through Illinois Works, DCEO is expanding its statewide network of providers to recruit, prescreen and provide pre-apprenticeship skills training. Equally important, the program providers offer structured pathways and manage the program graduates’ transition from the pre-apprenticeship program to a full apprenticeship program in construction and the building trades. Click here to learn more about the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.
Start Planning Now for a Thriving Spring Garden (Family Features) While winter weather puts outdoor gardening on pause in most parts of the country, the colder months offer a perfect opportunity to begin preparing for a lush garden come springtime. With a little creativity, and some extra time spent creating a plan, you can set yourself on a path toward success before the growing season even begins. Assess Your Space and Research Ideas Evaluate your current garden, taking note of what worked well last season and where improvements can be made. Use this downtime to sketch an updated layout, research companion plants and decide which fruits, vegetables or flowers you want to grow next based on what did (or didn’t) work last spring. Build an Updated Blueprint Winter is the ideal time to upgrade your garden design and make tweaks for efficiency. Use the offseason to consider crop rotation patterns for optimal soil health as well as ways to maximize your space such as raised beds, trellises or containers. You can also make a list of materials needed for any new features you may be adding, such as an irrigation system, and map out their placement so you’re ready to build as soon as the weather allows. Nourish the Soil Even if the ground is frozen, you can prepare your garden beds by adding compost, leaves or organic matter in late winter, ensuring nutrients are available when spring arrives. Also remember to test your soil’s pH level now, which can help guide your fertilization plan.
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Start Seeds Indoors If you’re eager to get your hands dirty, consider starting your seeds indoors. Early seed starting gives plants a head start, allowing you to transplant stronger seedlings outdoors when temperatures warm. Get Organized Use the slower pace of winter to clean and sharpen your garden tools, sort through leftover seeds and make a supply checklist so you’re ready to dig in when warmer days arrive. Find more advice to get your garden ready to burst to life in spring at eLivingtoday.com.
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