(KFVS) - The Illinois Department of Transportation unveiled Monday a new diversity internet site to boost communication of employment and contracting opportunities for prospective minority workers, minority-owned and woman-owned firms in Illinois.

According to IDOT, the launch of the site is an important improvement to help qualified firms and individuals better understand and access available contracting and employment opportunities.

“We designed this state-of-the-art Web site specifically to provide small businesses with immediate and direct access to IDOT construction and consultant-related information, and to better inform qualified candidates about employment and business opportunities,” said Acting Transportation Secretary Ann Schneider.

(KFVS) - The Illinois Department of Transportation recently unveiled their Yellow Dot program that they say will provide first responders with critical information to improve emergency care for people involved in car crashes.

IDOT, the Illinois Department of Public Health, Illinois Department of Aging and county health departments across the state are working together on the program. Participants in the program are given a simple, bright yellow decal for their car and a corresponding folder.

The decal is placed in the lower left-hand corner of the car window on the driver's side. The yellow dot means there is a folder in the glove compartment containing the following medical information about drivers: participant's name, close-up photo, emergency contact information, patient's physician information, medical conditions, recent surgeries, allergies and a list of current medications.

FRANKLIN COUNTY, IL (KFVS) - Governor Pat Quinn recently proclaimed Saturday, Nov. 26 as "Small Business Saturday" in Illinois to encourage shoppers to support small businesses in the state.

Shoppers are encouraged to use the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 26, between "Black Friday" and "Cyber Monday" to shop at small businesses around the state.

“Thanksgiving weekend traditionally serves as the kick-off for the holiday shopping season, and we want all Illinois businesses to have a strong showing,” said Governor Quinn. “I encourage people throughout Illinois to use this time to show their support for local merchants that contribute to our local economies, putting people to work and keeping our economy moving forward."