Chicago families who have lost loved ones to violence are invited to join State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago), who recently lost her nephews to violence, for a commemorative balloon release on Saturday, August 1st at the 12th Annual Health, Fun and Fitness Fair.

The balloon releases will be held at 10:45 a.m. at the Illinois Institute of Technology, located at 33rd and State Street. Local ministers will gather for a call-to-action against violence.

“Restoring the family structure in our neighbors can end violence. I want to stand with families in mourning to celebrate the lives of our loved ones. Together, we must all consciously commit to changing the community culture of crime, death and despair,” Hunter said.

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In June, the scientific journal Circulation published a new study showing that consuming sugary drinks like soda, energy drinks, fruit drinks, sports drinks and sweetened coffees and teas are linked to 25,000 American deaths per year. In light of that information, State Senate Majority Whip Mattie Hunter, (D-Chicago) is continuing to push for legislation that would place a small excise tax on sugary drinks to help fund health programs for those suffering from related illnesses and hopefully sway public opinion toward a healthier lifestyle.

“This recent study shows that action in needed. This is costing people lives and costing taxpayers millions to pay for the health care,” Hunter said. “It’s only fair that the products contributing to the epidemic of diabetes, heart disease and obesity help pay the tab.”

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A good-government law promoting greater transparency about Medicaid applications was signed into law today.

“Examining trends of long-term care applications for Medicaid can reduce our backlog and improve government efficiency,” said State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago). “In the past year, DHS and DHFS reduced their backlog from 12,500 pending cases to less than 6,000.”

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Free health and fitness services, back-to-school supplies, activities and food will be available for families and residents from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 1. State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) and the Institute for Positive Living are providing free health screenings. For the first time, Hunter will join the families of victims of violence and families for those who have lost loved ones to breast cancer for consecutive balloon releases at 10:45 a.m.

The 12th Annual Health, Fun & Fitness Fair, located at the Illinois Institute of Technology on 33rd and State St., will offer free eye and dental examinations, health screenings and provide information on nutrition, exercise and holistic health. The festivities will include raffles, prizes, food and refreshment.

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