Regional Media Podcast Network

Illinois lawmakers are focusing on gun safety with new legislation led by State Senator Laura Ellman. At a Tuesday press conference, Ellman and advocates highlighted the dangers posed by unsecured firearms, particularly to children and teens. Citing research that links unlocked guns to suicides, accidental shootings, and increased crime, Ellman stressed the need for preventive action. Senate Bill 8 seeks to expand existing laws, currently limited to children under 14, to require safe storage of firearms when any minor could access them. Supporters argue that these changes could save lives and enhance community safety. The bill now moves to the House for consideration.

“Unsecured firearms in homes pose serious risks, including unintentional shootings and suicides,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “Illinois has seen climbing numbers of firearm-related tragedies involving youth accessing unsecure guns, and our state has a clear need to prioritize preventive efforts.”

“Illinois has an opportunity to take a significant step forward to protect residents and prevent more families from losing their child to unnecessary violence – a tragedy no parent should ever experience,” said Ellman. “This measure is meant to save lives and help communities feel safe.”

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss May designations and school physicals for your kids. Local schools may be out for summer, but it’s time to think ahead about next year’s school and sports physicals. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, together with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are now booking affordable physicals at their Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon locations—$40 cash, or bring your insurance information. Immunizations and screenings are also available. This month also spotlights important health themes: free blood pressure checks thanks to an American Heart Association grant, osteoporosis awareness, and the upcoming No Tobacco Day on May 31st. For appointments or information, visit henrystarkhealth.com or call your local clinic.

Excitement filled the Sav-A-Lot Studio as Seth Parlier and Jeremy Peart delivered the latest Boiler Shop segment on Wake Up Tri-Counties. The spotlight was on Alejandro "Alex" Duarte, honored as the Regional Media Athlete of the Year Scholarship recipient. Seth presented Alex with the scholarship during the senior assembly, marking a proud moment for the community. The segment also recapped recent victories for regional baseball, softball, and track teams. Jeremy and Seth shared energetic play-by-play recaps, emphasizing close finishes and highlighting athletes whose outstanding performances shaped an unforgettable season for Tri-Counties sports fans.

A 37-year-old Woodford County man faces 21 counts of possessing child pornography following an extensive investigation and a search of his home. After the state’s attorney requested to deny pre-trial release, a judge, citing the Pretrial Fairness Act, ruled the defendant could not be detained but imposed strict conditions, including no internet access and no contact with minors. On the House floor in Springfield, Representative Dennis Tipsword criticized the system, questioning who would enforce these restrictions. Tipsword argued that blame lies with lawmakers themselves, not with police, attorneys, or judges, pointing to legislative responsibility for the outcomes.

Today on the House floor in Springfield, State Representative Dennis Tipsword (R-Metamora) asked “Who is going to enforce these ridiculous conditions?”  He went on to say that it is not the police officers’ fault, it’s not the state’s attorney’s fault, and it’s not the judge’s fault.  He said, “Look around this chamber…it is our fault.”

Illinois continues to see a troubling trend: a significant population decline, especially among young adults and families. Since April 2020, the state’s population under 18 has dropped by 6.1%, outpacing the national decline. Wealthy millennials and young professionals are also leaving, citing difficult public policies. State Representative Dan Swanson is proposing HB1501, a bill targeting one major barrier for young Illinoisans: access to farmland. The legislation would offer tax credits to those selling or renting agricultural assets to beginner farmers. Swanson says soaring land prices—now exceeding $20,000 an acre—make farming unattainable without family inheritance.

Tres Café in Kewanee is hosting a special fundraiser to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association on June 7th from 4 to 8 PM. For just $10, attendees can enjoy a chicken and noodles dinner, with both dine-in and carry-out options available. The event also features a silent auction and a 50/50 drawing, promising excitement alongside the opportunity to help an important cause. Every dollar raised will go directly to support individuals living with dementia and provide resources for their caregivers. Organizers invite the community to participate, emphasizing that their support will make a meaningful difference in the lives of local families affected by Alzheimer’s and related conditions. Call 309-761-8088 for carry-out.

A new era in Alzheimer’s detection is unfolding as the FDA has approved a groundbreaking blood test to help diagnose the disease. The Lumipulse G pTau217/ß-Amyloid 1-42 Plasma Ratio requires only a simple blood draw, offering a less invasive and more accessible alternative to current PET scans or spinal taps. Designed for adults 55 and older with signs of cognitive decline, the test detects amyloid plaques closely associated with Alzheimer’s. In clinical studies, the test demonstrated strong accuracy in predicting plaque presence, though it’s intended for use alongside other diagnostic evaluations rather than as a stand-alone screening tool. According to a study, four in five Americans said they would want to know if they had Alzheimer's before symptoms started, and 92% of Americans would want a medication to slow the progression of the disease.

Message Amber Bowcott on Facebook for information on local resources on Alzheimer's and dementia. If the diagnosis is Alzheimer’s or another dementia, you or your loved one are not alone. Join our free online community, ALZConnected, to share questions, experiences, and practical tips on message boards and in live chat rooms. For more information on Alzheimer's, visit https://www.alz.org/ or call 1-800-272-3900.