BOLINGBROOK – Local residents are invited to join State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel for a cup of coffee and conversations on Sept. 24, where she will discuss with attendees how she can best serve her district.

“Each and every month, I look forward to hearing from residents about what I can do to help them,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Having direct conversations with residents is a great way for me to better understand the issues they care about.”

The free event will be held Tuesday, Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to noon at Charlie’s Restaurant, located at 130 Clow International Parkway in Bolingbrook.

Monthly Coffee and Conversations serve as open forums for community members to share their concerns and talk with the senator about state issues. Coffee will be provided for attendees.

People with questions or concerns can contact Loughran Cappel’s Crest Hill office at 815-267-6119 or visit her website at www.SenatorLoughranCappel.com.

PLAINFIELD – To celebrate and honor those who served our country, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is hosting a veterans appreciation breakfast event ahead of the Veterans Day holiday.

“Veterans deserve our thanks and recognition for putting their lives on hold in service of something greater than themselves,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “This event serves as a small token of appreciation for our local heroes, while helping them connect with others who have served and providing them an opportunity to learn more about programs and services that are available to assist them.”

The event will take place Saturday, Oct. 5 at 9 a.m. at the Plainfield Township Community Center, located at 15014 S. Des Plaines St. in Plainfield. Warm breakfast will be provided for attendees.

PLAINFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel has teamed up with the Plainfield Park District and Plainfield Area Public Library to host a pet expo for local residents on Sept. 7.

“Pets are a part of our family too,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Join us for our annual fun, family-friendly event where you can bring your four-legged friends out to show them some love.”

The expo will be held on Saturday, Sept. 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Clow Stephens Park, located at 16650 S. Lily Cache Road in Plainfield.

Families are encouraged to bring their pets for an array of photo opportunities, training demonstrations and other activities. Face painting and temporary tattoos will be available for kids, and many local pet businesses will have booths with unique pet products.

Contact Senator Loughran Cappel’s office at 815-267-6119 for additional information.

SPRINGFIELD – A new law led by State Senator Loughran Cappel will get more teachers in the classroom, continuing her commitment of addressing the ongoing teacher shortage.

“Every year we have taken necessary steps to tackle the teacher shortage, getting more educators in the classroom,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “People who want to be teachers need support and encouragement. We can’t risk losing aspiring educators – we need to ensure they can get their licenses without delays.”

House Bill 5057 allows those applying for teaching licenses to take content area tests before, during and after student teaching. Loughran Cappel’s law will ensure applicants receive their license in a timely manner.