As Veterans Day approaches I am asking constituents to submit a photo and tribute to a loved one who has served in the United States Armed Forces to be displayed on the Veterans Day “Wall of Honor” in the Illinois State Capitol, November 4-15.
Families are asked to submit photos and written stories (max: 250 words) along with the following information: name, military branch (Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, National Guard, Navy) and conflict served (Afghanistan, Iraq, September 11, Gulf War, Vietnam, Korea, WWII, WWI, Peacetime, other).  Military photos are preferred, but not necessary.
Please email your submissions to veteransday@sgop.ilga.gov by November 3.  Submissions can also be mailed to Veterans Day Wall, 309 G Statehouse, Springfield, IL 62706.  For questions, call 217-782-7330.
Illinois State Police warn of a telephone scam

The Illinois State Police (ISP) is warning the public of a phone scam that is currently circulating throughout the country.  A number of residents have reported to the ISP that they have received a call with a voice indicating the person’s grandson has been arrested or is in trouble.  While the caller ID shows that the ISP is calling, ISP wants to make sure the public knows these calls are not coming from them.  
Citizens should be aware of this scam, and remember that the Illinois State Police does not ask for personal information and will never call to solicit money on behalf of the Department or ask you to send money for any reason.  Citizens are advised to hang up immediately and cautioned to not provide any personal information.
The Illinois State Police encourages those that believe they have been the victim of this phone scam to call them at 217-782-7980, or report information on this scam or different types of phone scams to the Illinois Attorney General’s office at www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/about/contacts.html
Proceeds from new lottery game to help homeless   
Illinois State Lottery officials have introduced a new game with the proceeds going to the Homeless Prevention Revenue Fund administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services.  The Fund provides rent and utility assistance to those in need.
The new scratch-off ticket, “Easy as 123,” started September 3 and is the first-ever Illinois Lottery game that addresses homeless.  It is $2 to play, with a maximum amount of $20,000 a player can win.
If you have any additional thoughts or ideas, please visit my website at www.senatorstewart.com and use the form to send me an e-mail.