Regional Media Podcast Network

As temperatures rise and outdoor activities increase, it’s important to remain vigilant about the risk of Lyme disease. The black-legged tick, commonly known as the deer tick, is behind most Lyme disease cases in Illinois, where infections have been steadily increasing. Symptoms can range from fever and joint pain to more severe neurological issues. Many cases remain unreported or misdiagnosed due to their similarity to other illnesses. Each spring, State Representative Dan Swanson champions a resolution to mark May as Lyme Disease Awareness Month, urging for increased federal funding and expanded prevention education, especially for children, Illinois’ most at-risk group. The measure now moves to the full House for approval.

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie is raising alarms over Illinois’s sanctuary state policies after Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Springfield today. McCombie claims these policies embolden criminals, put families at risk, and squander taxpayer funds. She criticized Governor Pritzker for focusing on future election ambitions instead of public safety, accusing him of reckless disregard for federal government directives. McCombie argues this approach leaves Illinois families to deal with the consequences. Her comments were delivered both on the House floor and before Wednesday’s legislative session, as the debate over sanctuary policies continues to intensify at the Capitol.

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie is raising alarms over Illinois’s sanctuary state policies after Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Springfield today. McCombie claims these policies embolden criminals, put families at risk, and squander taxpayer funds. She criticized Governor Pritzker for focusing on future election ambitions instead of public safety, accusing him of reckless disregard for federal government directives. McCombie argues this approach leaves Illinois families to deal with the consequences. Her comments were delivered both on the House floor and before Wednesday’s legislative session, as the debate over sanctuary policies continues to intensify at the Capitol.

Illinois lawmakers are set to make it easier for seniors to renew their driver’s licenses. State Senator Ram Villivalam, working with the Illinois Secretary of State and AARP, is championing legislation that would raise the age for mandatory, in-person license renewals from 75 to 79. Under the plan, a road test would only be required at 87 instead of 79, unless the senior has a commercial license. Immediate family members would also be allowed to report medical concerns affecting a driver's abilities. Supporters say this move recognizes seniors as some of the state’s safest drivers and streamlines the process for them.

Farmers across Illinois may soon see relief from increasing wildlife-related crop damage. Legislation sponsored by Senator Neil Anderson, Senate Bill 710, cleared the State Senate unanimously and now moves to the House for review. The bill aims to help manage deer overpopulation, a persistent issue causing both agricultural losses and vehicle accidents. Key measures include automatic issuance of extra hunting permits for qualifying landowners, expanded free permits for those with at least 40 acres, and new guest permit options. The initiative was developed with input from local farm bureaus and state officials, underscoring the push for practical, bipartisan solutions.

“Agriculture is Illinois’ leading industry, and when experts in the field raise concerns, it’s our responsibility as lawmakers to find real solutions,” said Senator Anderson. “This is a bipartisan issue, and I’m grateful my colleagues recognized the significant impact deer overpopulation has on both agriculture and public safety.”

“This bill is a result of collaboration with local farm bureaus, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and the Illinois Farm Bureau,” Senator Anderson added. “It’s a strong first step, and I’m committed to continuing our conversations further based on continued feedback from our agricultural community.”

Anderson also stressed the public safety benefits of the legislation regarding deer-related vehicle accidents. Reducing deer populations near roadways is a crucial part of protecting drivers, especially in rural areas where these collisions are most frequent.

“This bill supports our farmers, but it also looks out for everyday Illinoisans who drive our roads,” said Senator Anderson. “It’s about protecting crops, ensuring road safety, and managing wildlife in a responsible, effective way.”

Galva Mayor Volkert joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to recap the Monday City Council meeting. Galva’s City Council welcomed three members following April’s election—John Wirth joins for Ward 2, while Doug Anderson and Jayme Hopping continue serving their wards. The American Legion begins poppy sales for Memorial Day and invites volunteers to place flags at Galva Cemetery on May 11, 2025, meeting at 7 AM. Citywide cleanup runs June 16–21, with pickup available on June 16th; contact Galva City Hall at 309-932-2555  for details, especially regarding tire disposal fees. Galva acquired 44 acres near the park district, and the park district is looking to expand recreational areas. The park district intends to use the five acres to add a parking area, soccer field, and ball diamond.

The city is still installing the solar arrays, and when completed, residents will have the option to purchase electricity from the solar array. Mayor Volkert said the city will never ask you for financial information. If you have questions regarding individuals going door-to-door selling electricity, contact City Hall. The city has demolished some dilapidated buildings, and they have one building left. Anyone interested in opening a business in the final building or building on the land from demolished buildings should contact Galva City Hall for more information. The park district taxing boundaries need to match the city boundaries, so land around the ethanol plant has been annexed into the city, allowing for a larger tax base for the Galva Park District. Galva added a couple of trinkets and pictures to the Henry County time capsule, which will be opened far into the future.