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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20111115T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20111115T183000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T205615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205615Z
UID:7439-1321381800-1321381800@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Panel: High Costs of Wrongful Convictions
DESCRIPTION:Moderated by Andy Shaw \nPresident & CEO\, Better Government Association  \n \nFeaturing Andrea L. Zopp \nPresident & CEO\, Chicago Urban League  \n  \nPanelists include: \nThe Honorable Kwame Raoul\, Illinois State Senator (D-13)\nThe Honorable Tommy Brewer\, 7th Judicial Subcircuit\, Chicago\nThe Center on Wrongful Convictions\nClick here to read the joint investigation by the Better Government Association and the Center on Wrongful Convictions. \nTo RSVP\, go to www.wrongfulconvictions.eventbrite.com or email Joe Malinowski at jmalinowski@bettergov.org.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/panel-high-costs-of-wrongful-convictions/
LOCATION:Chicago Urban League\, 4510 S Michigan Ave\, Chicago\, 60653
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120111T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120111T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T205630Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205630Z
UID:7444-1326303000-1326303000@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:FOIA Clinic: Downtown
DESCRIPTION:Free FOIA Clinic\nQuestions about the Freedom of Information Act? Has your request been denied or ignored?  \nSign up for a one-on-one session with an attorney at no charge.\nA scheduled appointment is necessary.\nPlease contact Barb Macholz: bmacholz@bettergov.org | 312-821-9025
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/foia-clinic-downtown/
LOCATION:Center for Open Government\, Chicago-Kent College of Law\, Law Offices\, 565 W Adams St\, Ste 600\, Chicago\, 60661
CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120215T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120215T190000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T205814Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205814Z
UID:7453-1329332400-1329332400@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Panel: Illinois Townships - Relevant or Redundant?
DESCRIPTION:A Panel Discussion  \nHosted by the Better Government Association   \nModerator: NBC 5 Reporter Phil Rogers\nPanelists: \n\n\nHon. Larry Suffredin\, 13th District Cook County Board District Commissioner\n\n\nEmily Miller\, BGA Policy & Government Affairs Coordinator \n\n\nBob Porter\, Township Officials of Cook County Administrative Coordinator \n\n\nSam Yingling\, Avon Township Supervisor  \n \n\n\nThe event begins at 7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:30) \nTo RSVP register online here or contact Joe Malinowski at the BGA: jmalinowski@bettergov.org or 312-821-9028. \nThis event is free and open to the public.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/panel-illinois-townships-relevant-or-redundant/
LOCATION:Unitarian Church of Evanston\, 1330 Ridge Ave\, Evanston\, 60201
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120409T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120409T190000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T210229Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210229Z
UID:7468-1333998000-1333998000@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Fixing Illinois' Public Pensions
DESCRIPTION:A Panel Discussion \nCo-hosted by the Better Government Association & the School of Communication\, Loyola University Chicago. \n\n\n\nModerator: Charles Thomas\, ABC 7 Reporter\nPanelists:  \n\n\n Hon. Elaine Nekritz\, IL Representative\, 57th District \n\n\nHon. Darlene Senger\, IL Representative\, 96th District \n\n\nHenry Bayer\, Executive Director\, AFSCME Council 31 \n\n\nTy Fahner\, President of Civic Committee of The Commercial Club \n\n\nThis event is free and open to the public.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/fixing-illinois-public-pensions/
LOCATION:Regents Hall\, Lewis Towers\, 16th Fl\, 111 E Pearson St (Pearson and Rush)\, Chicago\, 60611
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120507T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120507T190000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T210229Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210229Z
UID:7470-1336417200-1336417200@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Pension Crisis - What's next for Chicago & Cook County?
DESCRIPTION:It’s not just state pensions that are in trouble. The Cook County and Chicago public pension systems are also in crisis. In an effort to explore and discuss possible solutions\, the BGA is hosting its second forum on the public pension crisis\, this time with the focus on Chicago and Cook County. \nModerator:\nRobert Reed\, BGA Director of Programming & Investigations \nPanelists: \n\n\nBridget Gainer\, 10th District Cook County Commissioner \n\n\nLaurence Msall\, President\, The Civic Federation  \n\n\nHank Scheff\, Director of Employee Benefits\, AFSCME Council 31  \n\n\nRalph Martire\, Executive Director\, Center for Tax and Budget Accountability  \n\n\n*Special thanks to Roosevelt University for their support of this event. \nTo RSVP register online here or contact Joe Malinowski at the BGA: jmalinowski@bettergov.org or 312-821-9028. (Note: If the event reaches capacity\, email Joe to be placed on the wait list.) \nThis event is free and open to the public.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/pension-crisis-whats-next-for-chicago-cook-county/
LOCATION:Roosevelt University\, Congress Lounge\, 430 S Michigan Ave\, 2nd Floor\, Chicago\, 60605
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120724T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120724T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T210429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210429Z
UID:7473-1343151000-1343151000@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Freedom of Information Act Clinic
DESCRIPTION:Questions about the Freedom of Information Act? Are you looking for help with a denied request? Need help formulating your FOIA request and asking for the right documents? \nSign up for a one-on-one 15 minutes session with an attorney at no charge! Meet with a FOIA expert for free legal advice on how to get your request answered. \nA scheduled appointment is necessary. Contact Barb Macholz at bmacholz@bettergov.org or 312.821.9025 for an appointment. Additional information is required before an appointment can be scheduled. \nThis FOIA Clinic will be held in downtown Chicago at: \nCenter for Open Government\nChicago-Kent College of Law\n565 W Adams St\, Ste 600\nChicago\, IL 60661\n \n\n 
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/freedom-of-information-act-clinic/
LOCATION:Center for Open Government\, 565 W Adams St\, Chicago\, 60661
CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120731T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120731T180000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211415Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211415Z
UID:7486-1343757600-1343757600@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Corruption Isn't Funny...But Sometimes You Have to Laugh to Keep from Crying!
DESCRIPTION:THIS EVENT HAS SOLD OUT. \n >> YOU CAN STILL SUPPORT THE WORK OF THE BGA BY MAKING A DONATION  \nWHAT: The Onion LIVE \nWHERE: Paris Club 59 West Hubbard Street \nWHEN: Tuesday\, July 31 6:00pm-9:00pm \nWHO: Emceed by WGN TV’s Larry Potash and Robin Baumgarten\, featuring special performances by IL Lt. Governor Sheila Simon and The Onion Players  \nWHY: This event is a FUN-raiser\, hosted by the BGA Young Professionals Board \n 
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/corruption-isnt-funny-but-sometimes-you-have-to-laugh-to-keep-from-crying/
LOCATION:Paris Club\, 59 W Hubbard St\, Chicago\, 60654
CATEGORIES:& Awards,Fundraisers,Special Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20120911T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20120911T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T210429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210429Z
UID:7475-1347384600-1347384600@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Improving Judicial Selection:  Are We Ready for Reform?
DESCRIPTION:The Better Government Association and the Union League Club of Chicago hosted a panel discussion featuring experts on judicial reform. \nPanelists include: \nCook County Circuit Judge and former State Representative Anthony Young \nRetired Appellate Court Justice Gino L. DiVito Brian Gladstein\, Executive Director\, Illinois Campaign for Political Reform John Thies\, President\, Illinois State Bar Association \nModerated by Andy Shaw\, President and CEO\, BGA
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/improving-judicial-selection-are-we-ready-for-reform/
LOCATION:Union League Club\, 65 West Jackson Blvd.\, Chicago\, 60606
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20121002T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20121002T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T205829Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T205829Z
UID:7457-1349179200-1349179200@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:2012 BGA Annual Luncheon
DESCRIPTION:Lara Logan introduced by Sun-Times Chairman Michael Ferro. \n \nCivic Achievement Award: Judge James Zagel Introduction by Chairman of Kroll Advisory Solutions and former NYC & LA police chief\, William Bratton. \n  \n  \n \nLifetime Achievement Award: Jimmie R. Alford Introduced by civic and philanthropic leaders Renee Crown and Ron Gidwitz. \n  \n  \n \n \n\n\n\n\n  \n \n 
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/2012-bga-annual-luncheon/
LOCATION:Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers\, 301 East North Water Street\, Chicago\, 60611
CATEGORIES:& Awards,Fundraisers,Special Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20121017T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20121017T180000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T210229Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210229Z
UID:7466-1350496800-1350496800@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Free FOIA Clinic
DESCRIPTION:Co-hosted with Kirkland & Ellis LLP and the Center for Open Government at Chicago-Kent. \nQuestions about the Freedom of Information Act? Are you looking for help with a denied request? Need help formulating your FOIA request and asking for the right documents? \nSign up for a one-on-one 15-minute session with an attorney at no charge! Meet with a FOIA expert for free legal advice on how to get your request answered. \nA scheduled appointment is necessary. Contact Stephanie Simon at ssimon@bettergov.org or 312.821.9042 for an appointment. Additional information is required before an appointment can be scheduled. \nThis FOIA Clinic will be held in downtown Chicago at: \nCenter for Open Government\nChicago-Kent College of Law\n565 W Adams St\, Ste 600\nChicago\, IL 60661
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/free-foia-clinic-2/
LOCATION:Center for Open Government\, 565 W Adams St\, Chicago\, 60661
CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20121114T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20121114T183000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211415Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211415Z
UID:7487-1352917800-1352917800@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Idea Forum: Charter Schools\, Neighborhood Schools & Public Education in Chicago
DESCRIPTION:  \nRegistration Closed. Click here to watch the video.\n  \nJoin the Better Government Association and Catalyst Chicago for a discussion about how charter schools have and will impact the landscape of public education in Chicago.  \n  \nModerated by Linda Lenz\, publisher\, Catalyst Chicago.Panelists include (additional panelists to be announced):Andrew Broy\, President\, Illinois Network of Charter SchoolsCharles Payne\, University of Chicago\, SSA  \nJackson Potter\, CTU\, Local 1 \n  \nDoors open at 6 p.m.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/idea-forum-charter-schools-neighborhood-schools-public-education-in-chicago/
LOCATION:Illinois Institute of Technology\, Exposition Center\, Hermann Hall\, 3241 South Federal St.\, Chicago\, 60647
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20130312T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20130312T180000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211415Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211415Z
UID:7490-1363111200-1363111200@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Free Freedom of Information Act Clinic: DePaul Law School
DESCRIPTION: \n\n  \nSign up for a one-on-one 15-minute session with an attorney at no charge! Meet with a FOIA expert for free legal advice on how to get your request answered. (Appointment necessary). \nCo-hosted with Kirkland & Ellis LLP and the Center for Public Interest Law at DePaul University. A scheduled appointment is necessary. Contact Stephanie Simon at ssimon@bettergov.org or 312-821-9042 for an appointment. Additional information is required before an appointment can be scheduled. \n  \n\n 
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/free-freedom-of-information-act-clinic-depaul-law-school/
LOCATION:DePaul University College of Law\, 25 E. Jackson Blvd.\, Chicago\, 60604
CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20130722T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20130722T183000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T210029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210029Z
UID:7462-1374517800-1374517800@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:2013 Young Professionals Board Summer Event
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/2013-young-professionals-board-summer-event/
LOCATION:UP Comedy Club\, 230 West North Avenue\, Chicago\, 60614
CATEGORIES:& Awards,Fundraisers,Special Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20130901T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20130901T183000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T210029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210029Z
UID:7464-1378060200-1378060200@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:TIFs In An Era Of School Budget Cuts
DESCRIPTION:The Better Government Association and Catalyst Chicago host a panel to discuss TIFs and school budget cuts. Moderated by Linda Lenz of Catalyst Chicago\, speakers include Ben Joravsky of the Chicago Reader\, Chris Brown from LISC Chicago\, Bill Vaselopulos from Cook County Clerk’s Office and Emily Miller of the Better Government Association. This program was recorded and streamed by Chicago Access Network Television (CAN TV). \n\n\n  \n \nIf you have any questions please call the BGA office at (312) 427-8330.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/tifs-in-an-era-of-school-budget-cuts/
LOCATION:Roosevelt University\, 430 South Michigan Avenue\, Chicago\, 60605
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20130924T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20130924T180000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T210029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210029Z
UID:7463-1380045600-1380045600@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Free FOIA clinic
DESCRIPTION:Sign up for a one-on-one 15-minute session with an attorney at no charge! \nMeet with a FOIA expert for free legal advice on how to get your request answered. (Appointment necessary). \nCo-hosted with Kirkland & Ellis LLP and the Center for Public Interest Law at DePaul University. A scheduled appointment is necessary. \nContact Stephanie Simon at ssimon@bettergov.org or 312-821-9042 for an appointment. Additional information is required before an appointment can be scheduled.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/free-foia-clinic/
LOCATION:DePaul University College of Law\, 25 E. Jackson Blvd.\, Chicago\, 60604
CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140103T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140103T180000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T210829Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210829Z
UID:7484-1388772000-1388772000@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Free FOIA clinic
DESCRIPTION:6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. \nSign up for a one-on-one 15-minute session with an attorney at no charge! \nMeet with a FOIA expert for free legal advice on how to get your request answered. (Appointment necessary). \nCo-hosted with Kirkland & Ellis LLP and the Center for Public Interest Law at DePaul University. A scheduled appointment is necessary. \nContact Stephanie Simon at ssimon@bettergov.org or 312-821-9042 for an appointment. Additional information is required before an appointment can be scheduled.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/free-foia-clinic-3/
LOCATION:DePaul University College of Law\, 25 E. Jackson Blvd.\, Chicago\, 60604
CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140224T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140224T183000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T210829Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T210829Z
UID:7481-1393266600-1393266600@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Smart Streamlining: DuPage County Idea Forum
DESCRIPTION:The BGA hosted an Idea Forum on government consolidation at National Louis University in Lisle\, Illinois on Monday\, February 24\, as part of its efforts to promote the “Smart Streamlining” of government units in Illinois. \nModerated by Madeleine Doubek\, Chief Operating Officer of Reboot Illinois\, the panel featured a lively discussion and question and answer session between DuPage County Board Chairman Dan Cronin\, Illinois State Representative Emanuel “Chris” Welch\, Township Officials of Cook County Administrative Coordinator Bob Porter and the Illinois Policy Institute’s Director of Government Reform\, Brian Costin. \n \nCronin said DuPage County officials are trying to determine if the services delivered by 13 local governments can be delivered in other ways at lower costs to taxpayers. Welch said he’s proposed legislation that could merge River Forest Township with the Village of River Forest because many of his constituents have asked for the opportunity to make such a change in order to save tax dollars. Porter said he supports consolidation in some cases\, but he warned that bigger isn’t always better when it comes to government efficiency or the delivery of services. And Costin noted that Illinois has too many layers of government for citizens to effectively monitor and the result could be higher taxes and more corruption. \nThe BGA regularly hosts Idea Forums to engage and educate the public on a wide range of good government issues. “Smart Streamlining\,” which tops the BGA’s 2014 legislative agenda\, is an effort to advocate for the public’s ability to consolidate or dissolve units of government found to be inefficient or ineffectual. \nIllinois leads the nation with nearly 7\,000 units of government\, about 2\,000 more than much larger states like Texas and California. The BGA kick started its “Smart Streamlining” campaign in January at a meeting of Springfield civic and business leaders who are considering a variety of ways to create more cost-effective local government. The BGA will return to the Springfield area in the spring to host another Idea Forum on government consolidation. \n\n\n \n 
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/smart-streamlining-dupage-county-idea-forum/
LOCATION:National Louis University\, 850 Warrenville Road\, Lisle\, 60532
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140422T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140422T180000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211621Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211621Z
UID:7496-1398189600-1398189600@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Free FOIA clinic
DESCRIPTION:6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. \nSign up for a one-on-one 15-minute session with an attorney at no charge! \nMeet with a FOIA expert from the BGA’s outside counsel for free legal advice on how to get your request answered. (Appointment necessary). \nCo-hosted with the Center for Public Interest Law at DePaul University. A scheduled appointment is necessary. \nContact Stephanie Simon at ssimon@bettergov.org or 312-821-9042 for an appointment. Additional information is required before an appointment can be scheduled.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/free-foia-clinic-4/
LOCATION:DePaul University College of Law\, 25 E. Jackson Blvd.\, Chicago\, 60604
CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140502T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140502T083000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211853Z
UID:7512-1399019400-1399019400@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Smart Streamlining: Exploring Government Efficiency In Your Community
DESCRIPTION:As a part of its “Smart Streamlining” campaign\, the Better Government Association hosted an Idea Forum on Tuesday\, May 20\, before a crowd of more than 50 guests at the Sangamo Club in Springfield. \nThe event featured a panel discussion moderated by Springfield radio personality Jim Leach of WMAY 970 AM\, which provided a live broadcast of the 90-minute event. A podcast of the conversation is available on the station’s website. The Idea Forum also featured a presentation on the more than 7\,000 units of government in Illinois—the highest of any state in the nation. \nSpringfield-area state Sen. Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill); former Springfield Mayor Karen Hasara; Jim Donelan with the Township Officials of Illinois; and Kent Redfield\, an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Illinois Springfield\, served as panelists. They talked about why Illinois has so many units of government\, the hard work being done to trim those numbers and the challenges standing in the way—like politics\, emotions and questions about whether consolidation will yield significant savings. \nLast year\, the Illinois General Assembly approved three measures that ease the path to consolidation for a select number of governments. However\, several other measures have stalled. Manar acknowledged that politics is part of the reason that progress has been slow\, but he said legislators are warming up to conversations about promoting government efficiency. \n“The more that the conversation is forced on the legislature\, the better off we’re going to be. But that takes continuous dialogue and probably a piecemeal approach\,” Manar said. “This is a complicated issue.” \nDonelan noted that consolidation plans shouldn’t move forward until there’s a firm understanding of the services provided by local governments and how consolidation might affect the people who rely on those services. Hasara said a thoughtful approach allowed officials in Springfield eliminate several local governments there without great pain to government workers and the public at large. \nDonelan\, Hasara and Redfield all served on the Citizens’ Efficiency Commission\, an effort to identify ways to save tax dollars in Sangamon County through government consolidation and collaboration\, like sharing services and personnel. \nRedfield said the taxing and bonding restrictions imposed by the state’s 1870 constitution help explain why Illinois has amassed nearly 7\,000 units of government. As a result\, communities created special districts to provide services that were beyond the fiscal means of counties and municipalities. Redfield said constitutional revisions in 1970 alleviated some of those restrictions. \n“The problem is it came a hundred years too late. And now we’re in a situation where everybody is invested in the status quo\,” Redfield said. “We’ve got land. We’ve got people\, and\, frankly\, we’ve got politics in terms of units of local government also become places where parties can run candidates or use them for organizing devices.” \nThe BGA regularly hosts Idea Forums to engage and educate the public on a wide range of good government issues. “Smart Streamlining\,” which tops the BGA’s 2014 legislative agenda\, is an effort to advocate for the public’s ability to consolidate or dissolve units of government found to be inefficient or ineffectual. The BGA launched the campaign in January. \n\n LISTEN\nThe panel discussion on “Smart Streamlining” was sponsored by the Better Government Association and broadcast live on 970 WMAY. \nPart 1 \nPart 2 \nPart 3 \n\n 
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/smart-streamlining-exploring-government-efficiency-in-your-community/
LOCATION:The Sangamo Club\, 227 East Adams Street\, Springfield\, 62701
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140506T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140506T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T210629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230125T214707Z
UID:7477-1399397400-1399397400@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:The 2014 Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting
DESCRIPTION:Reporter Shawn Boburg of The Record in Bergen\, NJ tells the story behind how he uncovered the Chris Christie “Bridgegate” scandal. Boburg spoke at The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting held by the Better Government Association. \n\n \n\n \n1st place\n \nTitle: “Chronic Crisis” \nNewspaper: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel \nContributor: Meg Kissinger \n\n\n2nd place\n \nTitle: “Small Claims…Big Injustice” \nTelevision Station: WTHR-TV\n \nContributors: Sandra Chapman\, William C. Ditton\, Steve Rhodes\, John Whalen\, Michael Eckstein \n\n\n3rd place\n \nTitle: “Backfire” \nNewspaper: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel\n \nContributors: John Diedrich and Raquel Rutledge \n\n\nHonorable Mention\n \nTitle: “Sweeping the Streets” \nNewspaper: The Chicago Reporter\n \nContributors: Angela Caputo\, Rui Kaneya\, Matthew Kovac\, Latricia Polk\, Evan Moore \n\n\n \nAWARD: Special Citation for body of work\n\nTelevision Station: WXYZ-TV\n \nContributors: Ross Jones\, Ramon Rosario\, Randy Lundquist\, Johnny Sartin\, Ann Mullen
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/the-2014-richard-h-driehaus-foundation-awards-for-investigative-reporting/
LOCATION:Union League Club\, Main Dining Room\, 6th Floor\, 65 West Jackson Blvd\, Chicago\, 60604
CATEGORIES:& Awards,Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://illinoisanswers.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2014InvestigativeAwardsEventsMain.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140507T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140507T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211654Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211654Z
UID:7510-1399483800-1399483800@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Springfield Reception - May 7
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/springfield-reception-may-7/
LOCATION:Inn at 835\, 835 South Second Street\, Springfield\, 62704
CATEGORIES:& Awards,Fundraisers,Special Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140714T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140714T180000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211853Z
UID:7515-1405360800-1405360800@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Free FOIA clinic
DESCRIPTION:Sign up for a one-on-one 15-minute session with an attorney at no charge! \nMeet with a FOIA expert from the BGA’s outside counsel for free legal advice on how to get your request answered. (Appointment necessary). \nCo-hosted with the Center for Public Interest Law at DePaul University. A scheduled appointment is necessary. \nContact Stephanie Simon at ssimon@bettergov.org or 312-821-9042 for an appointment. Additional information is required before an appointment can be scheduled.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/free-foia-clinic-5/
LOCATION:DePaul University College of Law\, 25 E. Jackson Blvd.\, Chicago\, 60604
CATEGORIES:FOIA Clinics
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://illinoisanswers.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BGA_LogoNoTag_Dec2010.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20140728T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20140728T180000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211853Z
UID:7513-1406570400-1406570400@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:2014 Young Professionals Board Summer Event
DESCRIPTION:The Young Professionals Board of the Better Government Association held its Third Annual Summer Comedy Event at the club untitled in Chicago’s River North neighborhood on July 28. Chicago comedians Pat McGann and Jim Flannigan kept the crowd laughing as they kicked back in this Prohibition-era speakeasy. Congratulations to the YPB for an event that raised more than $34\,000 for better government. Many thanks to everyone who attended\, our sponsors and raffle prize donors.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/2014-young-professionals-board-summer-event/
LOCATION:untitled\, 111 West Kinzie\, Chicago\, 60654
CATEGORIES:& Awards,Fundraisers,Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://illinoisanswers.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/summercomedyevent9.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20141014T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20141014T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211853Z
UID:7514-1413286200-1413286200@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:2014 BGA Annual Luncheon
DESCRIPTION:  \n \n \n 
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/2014-bga-annual-luncheon/
LOCATION:Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers\, 301 E North Water St\, Chicago\, 60611
CATEGORIES:& Awards,Fundraisers,Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://illinoisanswers.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/annualluncheon2014-1v2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20141112T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20141112T163000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211654Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211654Z
UID:7509-1415809800-1415809800@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:What's the Force Behind the Lucas Museum?
DESCRIPTION:Is building the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art on Chicago’s lakefront a fait accompli? \nMany people may think so but there are a lot of unanswered questions and crucial points that should be discussed before construction gets underway at the Museum Campus. \nJoin the BGA and the Union League Club of Chicago for a candid conversation about the important questions and issues still surrounding this new facility. The BGA/Union League Club Idea Forum will air all sides\, enhance community involvement and add value to public hearings being offered later at Chicago Park District forums or City Council committee hearings. \nCome join us!
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/whats-the-force-behind-the-lucas-museum/
LOCATION:Union League Club of Chicago\, 65 W Jackson Blvd\, Chicago\, 60604
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://illinoisanswers.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Lucasideaforum8.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20141216T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20141216T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211654Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211654Z
UID:7508-1418729400-1418729400@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Bruce\, Budget Blues & BGA
DESCRIPTION:Rauner Talks Budget Reform At BGA’s Springfield Event\nGovernor-elect discusses State’s Fiscal Crisis During Sangamo Club luncheon. \nBy the BGA \n“The more we peel back the onion\, the uglier it is.” \nThat’s the metaphor Illinois Governor-elect Bruce Rauner used to describe the state budget crisis during a luncheon event this week that was hosted Dec. 16\, 2014 by the Better Government Association and its recently created Springfield Advisory Board. \nDuring the event\, which was held at the Sangamo Club in Springfield and entitled “Bruce\, Budget Blues & BGA”\, Rauner stated that years of mounting unpaid bills\, “accounting shenanigans” and irresponsible borrowing have contributed to a messy budget process and Illinois’ ongoing fiscal woes. \nHis new administration will seek to correct these problems by focusing on structural reforms\, such as comprehensive overhaul of the tax code\, Rauner told an audience of nearly 150 people. \nMarilyn Kushak\, chair of the BGA Springfield Advisory Board\, opened the event by introducing Andy Shaw\, CEO and president of the BGA\, who moderated a brief question and answer session with the governor-elect. \nFollowing Rauner’s speech\, Shaw and Mike Lawrence\, former journalist\, president of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute\, and press secretary for ex-Governor Jim Edgar’s administration as well as a BGA Advisory Board member\, analyzed the Governor-elect’s statements and discussed his administration’s objectives. \nThe event was also carried live on radio station WMAY-AM. \n“Bruce\, Budget Blues & BGA” is part of the BGA’s initiative to expand its advocacy and civic engagement efforts to the state’s capital. \nKey to that effort is the formation of the advisory board that includes leading Springfield-based civic\, business and non-profit leaders. \n 
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/bruce-budget-blues-bga/
LOCATION:Sangamo Club\, 227 East Adams Street\, Springfield\, 62701
CATEGORIES:Candid Conversations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://illinoisanswers.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/bruceraunerspringfield29.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20141218T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20141218T000000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T212254Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T212254Z
UID:7522-1418860800-1418860800@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Rahm Talks Reform With BGA's Shaw
DESCRIPTION:In an exclusive interview with Andy Shaw\, president and CEO of the Better Government Association\, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel touted his administration’s track record on ethics while acknowledging there’s more to accomplish on the reform front. \nThe one-on-one interview Dec. 18\, 2014 at the downtown-based Union League Club\, which lasted for nearly an hour\, explored various good government issues\, including: need for a privatization ordinance\, increased government transparency\, police accountability\, tax-increment financing\, campaign finance as well as Emanuel’s leadership style. \n\n\nThe mayor led off the event with an announcement that the Chicago Park District is now in compliance with the federal Shakman Decree\, completing the work to free all branches of city government from federal oversight of hiring due to decades of rampant patronage. \n“Now\, what you know is more important than who you know\,” Emanuel said. “In the last three-and-a-half years\, we’ve gotten something done that no one thought was possible in the city.” \nThe mayor also strongly defended his use of tax increment financing\, or TIF\, proceeds as a redevelopment tool and his way of eliciting public feedback on major policy initiatives or projects. \nRahm\, Reform & BGA \n\nEmanuel estimated that 80 percent of TIF dollars are used for the public’s benefit in the form of schools\, parks\, libraries and public transit. The mayor also said that he favors establishing task forces to engage in public dialogue about major issues and then provide recommendations based on what they’ve heard. Emanuel said he’s used that feedback for his decisions to pursue a minimum wage increase and to nix plans to privatize Chicago Midway International Airport. \nThe process to study the proposed Midway deal and seek public input is one Emanuel said that he’d like to formalize in consideration of other major privatization deals down the road. The mayor said he wants to draft an ordinance that will avoid a return to privatization deals\, such as the widely disparaged Chicago parking meter deal that occurred during the regime of his predecessor Richard M. Daley. \nThe key to preventing future parking meter deals\, Emanuel told Shaw\, is to provide thorough examination of the proposal and then allow ample time for the city council and the public to vet the pros and cons. \nOn budget reform\, the mayor acknowledged that the city continues to struggle with debt\, but he said the administration has made tough choices and structural reforms that have the city headed in the right direction. “I did not say that in three-and-half years I was going to change all the paths\, but we have changed directionally where we’re going and we’re making fundamental different choices that get us to the place where we need to be\,” Emanuel said. \nThe event\, dubbed “Rahm\, Reform & BGA” was held in a fifth-floor ballroom at the Union League Club of Chicago before a crowd of nearly 50 BGA supporters\, board members\, staff\, media and invited guests. Several news outlets covered the interview and produced news stories on the mayor’s responses. \nMore than three years ago\, Emanuel sat down with Shaw for a similar interview on his first 100 days in office and his goals moving forward. \n\n\n 
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/rahm-talks-reform-with-bgas-shaw/
LOCATION:Union League Club\, 65 W Jackson Blvd\, Chicago\, 60604
CATEGORIES:Candid Conversations
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20150128T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20150128T180000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211622Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211622Z
UID:7497-1422468000-1422468000@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:Getting the Scoop on Charter Schools
DESCRIPTION:So how transparent and open are Chicago charter schools? Hear what BGA investigators think. They’ll share their experiences getting info and public records about charter schools… and talk about the tools you need to get the info yourself. \n\n\n\n\n \n\n  \n 
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/getting-the-scoop-on-charter-schools/
LOCATION:Portage-Cragin Library\, 5108 W Belmont Ave\, Chicago\, 60641
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20150302T111500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20150302T111500
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211622Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211622Z
UID:7498-1425294900-1425294900@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:A BGA Candid Conversation: Chuy's Challenge
DESCRIPTION: 
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/a-bga-candid-conversation-chuys-challenge/
LOCATION:This event is online only.\, bettergov.org\, Chicago\, 60606
CATEGORIES:Candid Conversations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://illinoisanswers.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Screen-Shot-2015-09-01-at-2.31.54-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20150324T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20150324T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T023550
CREATED:20220930T211640Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220930T211640Z
UID:7505-1427212800-1427212800@illinoisanswers.org
SUMMARY:FOIA Facts & Friction: The Future Of Open Records Laws In Illinois
DESCRIPTION:Join the BGA in Springfield to talk open records laws in Illinois. \nHosted by the BGA’s Springfield Advisory Committee\, “FOIA Facts & Friction: The Future of Open Records Laws in Illinois” will be a balanced panel discussion that will consider the viewpoints of both those who make public information requests and those charged with responding to them. \nThis event contributes to the BGA’s expanding advocacy and civic engagement in the state capital.
URL:https://illinoisanswers.org/event/foia-facts-friction-the-future-of-open-records-laws-in-illinois/
LOCATION:State Journal-Register Building\, One Copley Plaza\, Springfield\, 62705
CATEGORIES:Idea Forums
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://illinoisanswers.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/panel_moderator_foia_2015.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR