BURBANK — With support from State Senator Mike Porfirio, the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs launched the 2023 Operation Rising Spirit campaign to encourage service organizations, schools, communities and individuals to write letters of appreciation to former service members currently residing in veterans’ homes across the state.

“Writing letters for our veterans is a simple, yet meaningful way to honor their dedicated service and bring joy and comfort during the holiday season,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “These letters serve as a gesture of support, combating feelings of isolation that so many of our veterans experience during the holidays.”

Operation Rising Spirit initially launched in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to support residents who were unable to visit friends and family. The campaign was successful in encouraging veterans and facilitated their connection with the community. During the 2022 holiday season, IDVA distributed over 5,000 letters to veterans in the state’s care.

“Operation Rising Spirit honors veterans, offers support and rallies community involvement in acknowledging the sacrifices made by those who have served,” said Porfirio. “I encourage all our residents to show their appreciation for our former service members by submitting a letter.”

To participate, people can mail letters directly to IDVA, or submit on the IDVA website. Letters will be divided equally between the state’s five veterans’ homes. If mailing, send letters to:

Crystal Womack

The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs

Central Office

833 S. Spring St.

Springfield, IL 62794-9432

BURBANK – With support from State Senator Mike Porfirio, the Pleasantview Fire Protection District will receive funding for new emergency vehicles through the Fire Truck Revolving Loan Program.

“Ensuring our firefighters have the necessary resources is vital to protecting the lives and properties of our residents,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “This funding shows our commitment to prioritizing public safety and supporting those who selflessly serve our communities.”

The Fire Truck Revolving Loan Program is designed to assist departments or cities in purchasing emergency vehicles that they may not otherwise be able to afford. Under the FTRL program, fire departments, fire protection districts and township fire departments may apply for up to $350,000 in low-interest or no-interest loans for purchase of a fire truck or brush trucks.

PFPD, which serves Hodgkins and Countryside in Porfirio’s district, received $350,000 from the FTRL program. 

“Without programs such as our Fire Truck and Ambulance Revolving Loan, many departments would have to continue to repair vehicles that are not reliable anymore and never be able to afford a new fire truck or ambulance,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera. “The OSFM thanks Governor Pritzker for his commitment to our first responders and safety of our state’s residents.”

For a full list of recipients, or to learn more about the loan programs, click here.

BURBANK — State Senator Mike Porfirio co-sponsored a substantial victory for the dedicated men and women who serve and protect our communities.

“This legislation shows our commitment to the well-being of those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our communities,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “The increase in benefits will ensure that CPD officers can enjoy their well-earned retirement with the financial stability they deserve.”

Senate Bill 1956 removes the birth date requirement that was previously in place (born before Jan. 1, 1966) for Tier 1 retirees to be eligible for an annual 3% cost-of-living adjustment. The legislation also ensures that police officers born after Jan. 1, 1966, who received a retroactive increase of 1.5% in any year, will receive a proportional increase for that year so that the total increase is equal to 3% for each year.

“Our retired police officers have selflessly served our communities, and it is our responsibility to ensure they have a comfortable and secure retirement,” said Porfirio. “This is a small token of our appreciation for their dedicated service and commitment to public safety.”

This monumental achievement will have a major impact on the lives of retired Chicago police officers. It means that they will now receive a 3% COLA, doubling the previous 1.5% rate. This boost in benefits not only recognizes the dedication and sacrifices of Chicago police officers, but also provides them with greater financial security and stability in their retirement.

This measure will bring retired Chicago police officers in line with the current Chicago firefighter retirement standards.

Senate Bill 1956 passed both chambers of the General Assembly and advances to the governor for final approval.

BURBANK— Last week a Chicago Public Schools teacher in Garfield Ridge was murdered. Days later, the alleged killer attacked and shot an Illinois State Police officer in Springfield, leaving the officer critically wounded.

In response, State Senator Mike Porfirio released the following statement regarding the urgency to take action and pass legislation to prevent situations like these from occurring in the future:

“I am devastated by the tragic shooting that occurred in our district, resulting in the loss of a valued public servant and member of our community. The murder of Adrianna Lopez in such a cruel and violent manner is unacceptable. We owe it to Ms. Lopez’s memory to take concrete steps to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.

“Gun violence against women is a repeated pattern that must be addressed. Illinois lawmakers have the responsibility to take action to prevent attacks like this from occurring. I remain committed to working with my colleagues to pass legislation, known as Karina’s Bill, that will prevent further violence and save lives to empower law enforcement to grant more protection to victims of domestic violence.  

“We must reflect on this loss, acknowledge the pain it has caused and unite to prevent further suffering and loss of life. We must remember that violence and abuse have no place in our community. My heartfelt condolences are with Ms. Lopez’s family, her loved ones and the entire CPS community during this unprecedented and difficult time.

“While Officer Chapman-Green was shot several times, he is thankfully expected to recover. I will continue to keep him in my thoughts and I wish for a speedy recovery.”