Regional Media Podcast Network

State Representative Dan Swanson has supported a recently approved House measure aimed at alleviating financial burdens on small municipalities in Illinois. House Bill 1082 proposes amending the Illinois Municipal Auditing Law to exempt towns with populations under 1,000 from mandatory annual audits. Currently, the limited availability of Certified Public Accountants specializing in municipal audits, paired with the high costs, poses challenges for these small communities. The Illinois Municipal League highlights such audits as disproportionately expensive for towns with minimal annual budgets. With House approval secured, the bill now moves to the Senate for further consideration. Representative Swanson emphasized the importance of this exemption during recent debates.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss National Public Health Week, Cancer Control Month, and HIV Prevention Programs. As National Public Health Week 2025 commences, the Henry and Stark County Health Departments celebrate three decades of dedicated service, underscoring the theme “30 Years—Public Health Week It Starts Here.” With a focus on prevention and health equity, efforts are pursued to foster healthier communities. April also marks Cancer Control Month, encouraging lifestyle changes to reduce cancer risks. Additionally, National Youth HIV/AIDS Day highlights crucial PrEP/HIV prevention programs available in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon. This comprehensive initiative offers education, testing, and affordable treatment, contributing to the well-being of the community. For more details, contact the Henry & Stark Health Departments.

Tim Pletkovich joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming Zoom presentation at Kewane Public Library with descendants of two U.S. Presidents. The Kewanee Public Library is set to host an engaging Zoom event with two notable descendants of U.S. Presidents. On April 7, author and historian Tim Pletkovich will lead a discussion featuring Philip Smucker, a distant relative of George Washington and an accomplished war correspondent, alongside Ulysses Grant Dietz, a descendant of Ulysses S. Grant. They will explore several U.S. presidents' unique ancestral heritages and cultural influences, tracing their roots back to various regions of Britain. Smucker and Dietz bring their expertise and distinguished backgrounds, promising a captivating look into the historical connections that shaped America.

Russ Hughes joined Jennifer Russell in the Sav-A-Lot Studio for the April 4, 2025, edition of The Boiler Shop on Wake Up Tri-Counties. Russ talked about baseball, softball, and track. Congratulations to Bill Breedlove for being chosen as the 2025 Kewanee Outstanding Citizen.