Ella Ruestman

When I looked for places to recycle items that can't go in my curbside recycling bin, I found that there are several local options. Many electronics stores and recycling centers accept old computers, phones, cables, and batteries. Some home improvement stores near me also collect rechargeable batteries and plastic bags. We also recently went through our medicine cabinet and took our unused old meds to the local pharmacy. I was very surprised by how many items can still be recycled or disposed of if you just find where to take them.

What surprised me most about my energy footprint was how much of it came from everyday activities that I don't usually think about, such as using electronics, heating and cooling my home, and transportation. I realized that even small habits I don't recognize, like leaving lights on or taking short car trips, can add up over time and have a significant impact on my energy usage. After seeing my results I decided to make a few changes. I have started to always turn off the lights when I leave a room, unplug everything I am not currently using, and reduce unnecessary driving by sometimes walking if it's close. These may seem like small things, but I think overtime if will help my energy footprint become better!

Equality for transgender, femme, and nonbinary people is important because a just and sustainable society works best when everyone is treated with dignity, has equal opportunities, and can participate fully in their communities. Everyone deserves the same legal protections and freedoms regardless of their gender identity or expression. When people are accepted they are more likely to feel safe in their community, schools, etc. Overall, supporting equality for transgender, femme, and nonbinary people helps create stronger communities, improves health and economic opportunities, and promotes respect for human rights.

Like a lot of states, I have learned Illinois has a relativity broad voting access. There is still a few barriers that will discourage or prevent people from voting. These barriers include registration requirements, identification needed to vote, transportation, accessibility, and work and schedule conflicts. There are some discussions going on out there to help get rid of these barriers. Some of these include expanding voter education through schools, communities, and local organizations so voters understand everything they need to know. Also expanding the hours you can vote and making more locations. There are ways you can help and encourage people to vote as well! So make sure you are registered to vote and always make sure you know all the facts before voting :)

It helped me get on to a good morning routine before heading to work. I now automatically wake up at 6am before my alarm even goes off. I head to the gym around then and usually stay between 30 minutes to an hour. Some of that time is spent in the sauna or the red light therapy machines. I think this has gotten me into a good mind set physically and mentally!