The Bost Bulletin

Dear Friend,

A quick reminder for anyone interested in the future of Little Grassy Lake, on Monday, June 2nd, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Army Corps of Engineers are hosting a public meeting from 6 to 7:30pm at the Carterville Community Center. During this informational meeting they’ll be giving us updates on the dam safety improvement work they’ve put in so far and what we can expect moving forward. If you have questions, be sure to attend Monday at 120 North Greenbriar Road or keep tuned to their website.

Bringing VA Secretary Doug Collins to Mt. Vernon for a Veterans Forum

We had a packed house in Mt. Vernon last week for my Veterans Forum with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins. I believe government governs best when it does so close to the people, and this forum provided veterans an opportunity to speak directly with a key decision maker from Washington. Thank you to everyone who was able to attend, the Mt. Vernon Police Department for hosting us all, and a big thanks to Secretary Collins for taking time from his busy schedule to come down to Southern Illinois and give our veterans a seat at the table.

Pushing Back Against Planned Parenthood

Planned Parenthood is going behind the backs of parents to give children transgender treatments. This is just another reason we absolutely must get President Trump’s "One Big, Beautiful Bill" through the Senate and onto his desk to be signed into law. The version of this bill that I voted for last week revokes taxpayer funds from going to Planned Parenthood. Parents deserve a voice when their children are contemplating such life altering and dangerous decisions!

Announcing Small Business Administration Disaster Relief

Southern Illinois was hit hard by April’s storms and flooding. Now, the Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans to help our communities recover. If you live in Marion, Clay, Clinton, Jefferson, Washington, or Wayne counties, you may be eligible for help – whether you're a homeowner, renter, small business owner, or participate in a nonprofit. Click this link to find out more.

Attending the Marine Corps Evening Parade at 8th and I

I recently attended the Marine Corps Evening Parade at 8th and I - the oldest active-duty Marine Barracks in the United States, as the Guest of Honor. As a proud Marine veteran, it meant the world to stand alongside today’s Marines and witness the discipline, precision, and tradition that make the Corps second to none. Thank you to the United States Marine Corps for the incredible evening and for all you do to protect and defend our country. Semper Fi.

Southern Illinois Fun Fact

In the early 1900s, Olney became known for its population of white squirrels. Over time, these unique creatures became a source of local pride, leading the city to adopt them as an official symbol. Today, Olney's albino squirrels are protected by city ordinance, granting them the right of way on all public streets. Drivers who harm one can face a fine of up to $750. The city even maintains a squirrel count and celebrates them with annual events, which you should check out if you haven't already. Pretty nuts!

Hosting June Mobile Office Hours

My staff will be hosting mobile office hours across Southern Illinois this June so you can speak with our casework experts face-to-face with comfort and convenience. Please visit with any questions you may have regarding veterans’ benefits, Social Security, Medicare, the IRS, and more.

To stay updated on the work I am doing, make sure you follow me on Facebook or Twitter. And if you would like to receive these email updates, make sure you sign up for my newsletter here.

- Mike