Macon Reporter

Many resources are available to Illinois' senior citizens and state Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield) is trying to get the word out.

Turner and the Christian County Senior Citizens Center are planning a senior fair 9 to 11 a.m. Oct. 4. at the center on Adams Street in Taylorville.

"There are a wide variety of resources available to seniors, but not everyone is aware of them," Turner said in an announcement about the senior fair. "Our goal is to help connect our neighbors with resources and information to help them stay safe, informed and healthy."

Next month's senior fair in Taylorville is intended as "a one-stop shop for available resources" for local seniors, Turner said in her announcement.

Local and state resource organization representatives are expected to attend, ready to provide information and answer questions. The event is open and free to the public, as well as to "interested vendors," the announcement said.

Among the organizations expected to be represented is the Christian County Department of Public Health, which plans to provide flu vaccinations. Anyone interested in receiving a flu vaccine should bring their insurance or Medicare cards or pay the $40 out-of-pocket cost.

Any organization that would like to register for the event may do so on Turner's legislative website or by calling her office at (217) 782-0228.

A former Springfield City Council and Sangamon County Board member and former Springfield Ward 3 Alderwoman, Turner has represented Illinois' 48th Senate District since her appointment in February of last year in place of now former Sen. Andy Manar. Manar resigned to accept a senior advisor position in Gov. J.B. Pritzker's administration. 

Turner was unopposed in June's Democratic primary for a full term in her Senate seat and her challenger in November's General Election is State House Rep. Sandy Hamilton (R-Springfield), who represents the 99th House District.

Illinois' 48th Senate District includes much of the central part of the state, east Springfield to Decatur then south to include Christian and Mongtomery Counties, along with portions of Macoupin and northern Madison counties.