Johnson: No verdict could truly restore George Floyd’s loss

• Criminal Justice Reform
• Illinois Legislative Black Caucus

BUFFALO GROVE – State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) released the following statement in response to news that former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin has been found guilty on all the counts he faced over the death of George Floyd:

“Over a year ago, George Floyd’s death spurred unrest across the nation. Today’s verdict offers some consolation that racism, bigotry and violence carry consequences.

“However, I am still not satisfied with this version of ‘justice’—no verdict could truly restore what has been lost. George Floyd’s daughter will still grow up without a father.

“In his memory, and in her honor, we will continue working toward true justice for all, building on the momentum of the activists that have laid the path for us, to create a better world for this generation and the next.”

Johnson invites high school and college students to apply for internship program

• In the district
• Students
• Apply Now

BUFFALO GROVE – State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) is seeking motivated, community-minded high school and college students to serve in her district office as interns.

“I want to give young people a chance to make a difference in our community while gaining valuable experience working in government,” Johnson said. “If you’re an energetic, driven student who’s interested in public service, I encourage you to apply to be a part of our team.”

Interns would take on an active role in Johnson’s office, helping plan events, assisting with outreach to community organizations and local governments, and researching legislative initiatives. Interns will primarily work remotely, but may be asked to attend in-person events with the senator when conditions allow.

The position requires a minimum commitment of five hours per week from May to August, but scheduling is flexible. Johnson’s office will work with interns seeking college credit for the internship.

Johnson’s staff is hiring interns on a rolling basis, so candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as they are able. Applicants should email Priyanka Khanna at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with a resume and a brief explanation of their interest in joining the 30^th District team.

Johnson announces summer infrastructure projects, urges motorists to drive carefully in work zones

• Capital projects
• Infrastructure

BUFFALO GROVE – Six projects valued at $43 million will improve roads, bridges and sidewalks across the East Lake County area, including four projects in the district State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) represents.

“Infrastructure improvements create jobs, spur economic growth, and allow residents, commuters and visitors in Lake County to travel safely,” Johnson said. “These investments will make all the difference for our region.”

This summer, motorists can expect the completion of a long-running construction project at the intersection of U.S. 41 (Skokie Highway) and Illinois 132 to remove and replace the Union Pacific Railroad bridge, reconstruct Grand Avenue, and widen the southbound U.S. 41 ramp.

Additionally, projects to resurface and install ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps on three roadways in the 30^th District are scheduled to begin this summer:

• U.S. 41 from Illinois 21 to Dorchester Avenue,
• Illinois 60 from Des Plaines River to Riverwoods Road, and
• Illinois 131 from Illinois 120 to Canadian National Railway.

Construction on these projects will be completed in the fall.

During this time, Johnson reminds drivers to be patient, allow extra time for travel, and drive cautiously in and around work zones.

“These projects are a victory for safety and mobility in our area, and they will continue to benefit our communities for years to come,” Johnson said. “Please take caution when driving in these areas over the next few months for your safety and the safety of our construction workers.”

The projects are made possible by Rebuild Illinois, a $33.2 billion program to invest in the state’s aging transportation system, create jobs and promote economic growth across Illinois.

Johnson visits Green Oaks distillery, invites other local businesses to participate in tour series

• In the district
• Local business
• Small business tour series

BUFFALO GROVE – As part of her small business tour series to get to know local business owners and better understand their needs during the pandemic and beyond, State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) paid a visit to North Shore Distillery in Green Oaks.

“Like many other businesses in our community, North Shore Distillery suffered economic setbacks as a result of the pandemic,” Johnson said. “But over the past year, they have shown impressive resilience and innovation to keep their doors open. I’m proud to have businesses like North Shore Distillery in the 30^th District.”

North Shore Distillery bills itself as Illinois’ original craft distillery, established in 2004 by Derek and Sonja Kassebaum, a husband-and-wife team who invested their life savings into the facility.

When the COVID-19 pandemic put a pause on in-person gatherings, North Shore Distillery—which regularly hosted tours, classes and other events in its spacious bar and tasting room—took a hit.

Despite this hardship, North Shore Distillery pivoted at the onset of the pandemic to help support first responders, long-term care facilities and health care providers by becoming the first distillery in the country to receive approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to produce alcohol-based hand sanitizer, addressing a dire nationwide shortage.

Thankfully, the business was eventually able to secure funding through the Paycheck Protection Program to help cope with pandemic-related losses. The Kassebaums say they hope to expand their seven-person team as COVID-19 restrictions loosen.

“Like the other outstanding small businesses I’ve had the privilege of visiting as part of my tour series, North Shore Distillery not only offers exceptional products and exciting experiences—they also serve the community,” Johnson said. “I encourage everyone to shop and dine local when possible to ensure these establishments can continue to enrich the 30^th District.”

Johnson encourages local business owners to sign up to participate in her tour series. To apply, visit SenatorAdrianeJohnson.com/SmallBusinessTours. Once an application is received, a member of Johnson’s team will reach out with additional details.

With questions, contact Senator Johnson’s office at 847-623-3006 or by visiting SenatorAdrianeJohnson.com/contact-us.