Regional Media Podcast Network

Illinois Moves to Track and Raise Awareness of Alpha-gal Syndrome Linked to Tick Bites

Alpha-gal syndrome, a serious allergic reaction linked to Lone Star tick bites, is driving new action in Illinois. State Representative Dan Swanson is backing legislation that would require the Department of Public Health to track cases of this meat and dairy allergy. If passed, medical providers will be required to report alpha-gal cases, giving officials a clearer picture of the syndrome’s spread. Swanson emphasizes that cases are on the rise, and his focus is on raising awareness about AGS symptoms and potential dangers. The legislation aims to inform residents and better equip the state to address this emerging health threat.

Illinois Bill Seeks Greater Access to Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Resources

A new measure led by State Senator Christopher Belt aims to boost access to mental health support and enhance suicide prevention statewide. The proposal requires public buildings throughout Illinois to display the contact details for the 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, ensuring immediate help is more accessible. The legislation calls for evidence-based suicide prevention education in grades 6 through 12 and increases support for those leaving state correctional facilities. Tammy Bush, President of Tam’s Beautiful Butterflies, emphasizes that visibility and education can save lives. Senate Bill 2771 is currently awaiting review by the Illinois Senate Behavioral and Mental Health Committee.

Illinois Bill by State Senator Steve Stadelman Seeks Continuous Protection for Domestic Violence Survivors

State Senator Steve Stadelman has introduced Senate Bill 3044, targeting gaps in legal protection for survivors of domestic violence and stalking. The bill would ensure that emergency orders of protection remain valid until a final, or plenary, order is in place and served. Currently, survivors may be left without safeguards during this transition, a gap that prompted legislative action after a local constituent, Elizabeth Malone, shared her experience. Stadelman emphasized the urgent need for continuous protection, stating that the risk to victims escalates rapidly. The proposed measure is awaiting further progress in the Senate and could impact survivors statewide.

Illinois Lawmakers Seek More Federal Aid and Education to Combat Rising Lyme Disease Cases

Illinois lawmakers are pushing for more federal support to fight Lyme disease. The House public health committee has adopted a resolution sponsored by State Representative Dan Swanson, which calls for increased funding to find a cure. Swanson highlighted a rise in Lyme cases across the state, noting that available data may underestimate the problem, as major employers’ insurance plans aren't included in official counts. The measure also urges the State Board of Education to launch tick-bite prevention lessons for schoolchildren, who are at particular risk. May 2026 would be designated as Lyme Disease Awareness Month under the resolution, now headed to the full House.

Kim Ewoldsen Small Business Development Center at SVCC

Wake Up Tri-Counties Galva Mayor Volkert Talks CO₂ Sequestration Project, Road Improvement Plan, Spring Cleanup, and Bicycle/Electric Bike Safety

Galva Mayor Rich Volkert joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the proposed underground CO₂ sequestration project at the ethanol plant, road work in the northeast section of town, proper disposal of large items, yard ordinances, cemetery cleanup beginning on March 29th, bicycle and electric bike rules, and spring cleanup in June. Galva officials are urging residents to stay informed as discussions intensify regarding CO2 sequestration at the ethanol plant. The proposed plan would store CO₂ 4,400 feet underground, with public meetings set to provide accurate information and address safety concerns, particularly regarding groundwater. Mayor Volkert emphasizes the importance of attending these meetings and reminds residents to check the city website and local news outlets for updates. Other city news includes street improvement projects in the northeast section of town and spring cleanup events, along with reminders to dispose of large items properly. Residents are also encouraged to follow traffic rules while using bicycles and electric bikes.

A major initiative known as Project Big River, located in Galva, is set to tackle carbon emissions with an ambitious plan to capture, transport, and store over 725,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. The project is a collaboration with Big River Resources and is designed as a near-plant, multi-landowner solution. The application for Class Six status has already been submitted, signaling progress toward full regulatory approval for underground storage. Mayor Volket said the permit process could take two years to complete. Lapis will attend the public meetings to answer questions about the process and safety measures. This significant step showcases the region’s commitment to responsible energy practices and innovative environmental technology.

Big River Resources is pushing forward with an ambitious carbon capture initiative aimed at reducing industrial emissions in the region. The project plans to capture, transport, and store more than 725,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, showcasing a partnership-driven approach with multiple landowners. With a Class Six permit application now in, the roadmap includes acquiring pore space, drilling a stratigraphic well in 2025, and proposing an official permit submission by 2026. If timelines hold, investment decisions and construction would begin in 2027, with the first injection of captured carbon targeted for 2028. Find more information regarding Project Big River here.

Wake Up Tri-Counties Samantha Rux Talks Exercise and Weight/Resistance Training Help Women More than Men

Samantha Rux from OSF Healthcare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about a study that shows that regular exercise and weight training are more impactful for women than men. New research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology highlights greater exercise benefits for women compared to men. Tracking 400,000 individuals, the study found that women who work out regularly are 24% less likely to die early, compared to a 15% reduction for men. Women also saw a 36% lower risk of cardiovascular death, far outpacing men at just 14%. Nurse practitioner Mary O’Meara of OSF HealthCare urges women to add strength training to their routines, explaining that it can help combat muscle loss, improve heart health, and lower risks of dementia and osteoporosis. Proper protein intake and healthy fats are also recommended to maximize these benefits.

A new study highlights a significant gender gap in heart health: women who exercise regularly experience a 36% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular events, compared to a 14% reduction in men. Mary O’Meara, a nurse practitioner at OSF HealthCare, points out that heart attacks in women are often missed, as symptoms can be subtle—fatigue, nausea, or heartburn—rather than intense chest pain. O’Meara emphasizes strength training and adequate protein intake, especially during menopause, to reduce risks of dementia, osteoporosis, and muscle loss. She also advocates for healthy fats like olive oil and fish oil in the diet, reminding women that it’s never too late to start moving. Find more information at https://www.osfhealthcare.org/services/specialties/women.

Henry County Board District 2 Republican Forum on March 4, 2026

The Republican primary candidates forum for Henry County Board District Two takes place Wednesday, March 4th, at 7 PM inside the Kewanee City Hall council chamber. Six Republican candidates compete for five open seats, while two others seek to fill a two-year unexpired term. The League of Women Voters of the Kewanee Area will moderate, and community members can attend in person, listen on WKEI 1450 AM or 102.1 FM, or watch online. Residents are encouraged to submit questions for the candidates by mail. The primary election is set for March 17, 2026. More details are available at henrycty.com and vote411.org.

Chad Winter, Natalie Hendryx, Deborah Casteel, Crystal Strode, and Mike Rabas joined the forum and answered questions submitted by Henry County residents.