Illinois News Now

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the "Basics Initiative, IL," Poison Prevention week, Nutrition Month, monthly CPR classes, 12 Communities in 12 Months for March in Orion, and Insurance Navigators. The Henry and Stark County Health Department is spotlighting National Poison Prevention Week from March 15th to 21st, urging families to make safety a priority. Over two million poisonings occur nationwide every year, most happening at home and affecting young children. Residents are encouraged to secure chemicals and medications, use child-resistant containers, and always check dosages in good light. Poisonous household items include cleaning agents, over-the-counter medicines, and vitamin supplements. Immediate help is available through the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. More tips and resources can be found at henrystarkhealth.com, as the community focuses on keeping families safe.

Chris Willis and Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about nutrition during National Nutrition Month, emphasizing smart eating habits over fad diets. This year's campaign, “Discover the Power of Nutrition,” urges listeners to prioritize variety—fill half your plate with colorful veggies, choose diverse protein sources, and limit highly processed foods. Dietitian Chris Willis recommends practical steps: swap sugary drinks for water, try new vegetables, and control portions by pre-packaging snacks. She also highlights affordable options, like canned or frozen produce, and underscores the importance of both daily movement and regular strength training for long-lasting health benefits. Find reliable nutrition facts at EatRight.org. Contact your primary care medical provider for a referral for nutrition services within OSF HealthCare. Find more information about nutrition services at OSF Healthcare here. 

The Friends of the Animals annual craft show returns March 28th, running from 9 AM to 2 PM at the American Legion on East 3rd Street. This event, the group's largest fundraiser, supports families with veterinary bills. Attendees can browse goods from more than a dozen local vendors, including homemade foods and unique crafts. Raffle baskets, featuring items from local businesses and animal-care suppliers, add excitement to the day. All proceeds will help cover veterinary expenses for families struggling with pet care costs. Find more details on the Friends of the Animals Facebook page. You can donate year-round on the Friends of the Animals account at the Kewanee Vet Clinic and at Friends of the Animals, PO Box 574, Kewanee, IL 61443. For more information, email Kathy at kwerderman77@gmail.com.

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the 2026 Visitation Catholic School Spring Fling on March 21, 2026. Bidding has begun for the 2026 Spring Fling Fundraiser! Bidding ends on March 21, 2026, at 7:30 PM; bid here. Visitation School's annual Spring Fling gala is set for Saturday, March 21st at the school gym, promising an exciting evening of community spirit and fundraising. Doors open at 5 PM with dinner at 6, followed by Steinhaus Dueling Pianos from 7 to 10. Attendees can join the fun by purchasing dinner and event tickets for $50 or enjoy just the piano show for $25. A highlight is the online auction, featuring experiences like Chicago Cubs and Bears tickets, a Savannah Bananas club box package, and theater outings, alongside themed baskets from each class. The night also includes a drawdown raffle, with a top prize of $1,000. The signature gala serves as the school's largest fundraiser, supporting academic and extracurricular programs and benefiting local charities. Tickets and more information are available through the school or its website. Visitation The Catholic School is inviting the community to reserve their spot for the upcoming event. To secure attendance, guests are encouraged to call or visit the school office at (309) 856-7451. Those preferring to pay online can use Venmo; remember to include the number of meal tickets and entertainment-only tickets needed, and mention seating preferences. Each table accommodates up to eight people, so groups are welcome. Don't miss the chance to enjoy an engaging evening supporting local education while spending quality time with friends and family. More information is available by contacting the school directly or visiting their Venmo page. Visitation Catholic School's cherished Dinner and Auction fundraiser makes its anticipated return, aiming to boost growth for students, faculty, and programs alike. Recognized for its inclusive community and remarkable alumni, VCS has long welcomed families from every background, providing outstanding education and life preparation. Organizers hope that this year's event will help bridge critical funding gaps, supporting scholarships, classroom enhancements, and faculty training initiatives. Community members are encouraged to consider donations, ensuring every child continues to benefit from the school's tradition of excellence. For more information, contact event coordinators Amelia Schiltz at aschiltz@visitationcatholic.com or Kali Nichols at knichols@visitationcatholic.com at Visitation Catholic School.

Kewanee is gearing up for its second annual Cinco de Mayo celebration at Northeast Park, set for May 2nd from noon to 5 PM. Visitors can look forward to traditional Mexican cuisine, live performances—possibly including a mariachi band—and a variety of local vendors. Activities for children will feature bounce houses, raffles, and opportunities for young entrepreneurs ages 8 to 17 to sell their goods free of charge. The event will also offer a free health fair with screenings and wellness information. Organizers are actively seeking food vendors, child vendors, and volunteers, especially for kids' activities. Interested parties can connect via Facebook or by calling 773-542-8389. Organizers invite residents of all ages to join in the festivities and experience a day filled with culture and fun. For those interested, festivities will kick off with plenty to see, taste, and do at Northeast Park. La ciudad de Kewanee se prepara para una vibrante celebración del Cinco de Mayo en el Parque Northeast, situado en 1200 North Main Street. Organizado por la Comisión de Relaciones Humanas, el evento reunirá a la comunidad con una feria de salud, sabores auténticos de la comida mexicana, música en vivo y entretenimiento para toda la familia. Desde actividades culturales hasta información sobre el bienestar, la jornada promete diversión para asistentes de todas las edades. La entrada no tiene costo y el acceso está abierto a quienes deseen sumarse. Los organizadores invitan a la participación de toda la comunidad local. The Cinco De Mayo fundraiser in Kewanee is now in full swing, giving residents a chance to support this year's community celebration. T-shirts and hoodies are on sale, with all proceeds directly benefiting local cultural activities, live music, and family-friendly entertainment planned for the event. These special edition items are available only for a limited period, so community members are encouraged to place their orders soon to ensure they don't miss out. Organizers emphasize that every purchase goes toward making the celebration memorable for all ages, highlighting Kewanee's vibrant spirit and commitment to cultural traditions. Order here. La celebración de Cinco de Mayo en Kewanee impulsa su evento con la venta de camisetas edición especial de color amarillo brillante y sudaderas negras clásicas. Estas prendas no solo muestran el espíritu festivo, sino que cada compra ayuda a financiar más cultura, música y actividades para familias durante la festividad. Los organizadores animan a la comunidad a apoyar la causa comprando en línea a través del enlace disponible. Esta iniciativa busca fortalecer la participación local y garantizar una experiencia vibrante para todos los asistentes al tradicional evento de Mayo en Kewanee. Ordene aquí.

Quarter Madness is set to ignite Kewanee with excitement on March 13th, 2026. The Rotary Club of Kewanee and Prairie Chicken Arts Festival are joining forces, hosting their signature auction night at the Elks Lodge. Jon Looney and Dianne Packee joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to reveal the big prize for the night from Martin Engineering. You can watch the video below on our YouTube channel. The Yeti cooler full of goodies will be the last item of the night and is valued at $1,500! Regional Media's COO, Darren Brown, surprised Jon and Dianne with a donation of tickets to the Chicago Bulls game on April 10, 2026, to add to the prize list. Watch below, listen live on-air, or listen to the podcast to hear about more of the amazing items up for grabs Friday night. If you'd like to donate or purchase paddles, please contact Dianne Packee at 309-312-0168. Doors open at 5:45 PM, with bidding beginning at 6:30. Prizes include designer purses, power tools, gift cards, and themed baskets—all up for grabs with just a few quarters. Proceeds help fund community projects and the Prairie Chicken Arts Festival. Advance paddle sales are recommended, with Platinum options allowing even off-site play. Participants can choose from three different types of auction paddles: the Platinum paddle, ideal for those who want to bid from home and be notified if they win; the Gold paddle, which offers the best value and entry for every item at the in-person event; and the White paddle, available only onsite the night of Quarter Madness. Each person can buy up to two white paddles. Bidding involves placing quarters for each item, giving everyone a shot at fantastic prizes for just change. Platinum paddles, offering premium chances, are available for $60 until noon on March 13th. Gold paddles are set at $30 each. Purchases can be made online at kewaneerotary.com or in person at Sutton and Associates Real Estate and Country Financial Erin Spivey's office. Gold and white paddles will also be available at the Elks Lodge, but supplies are limited. For updates, visit the Rotary Club of Kewanee Facebook page. A new feature this year is in-person-only prizes; depending on how it works, it may be a new permanent feature. Watch the Rotary Facebook page for the full list of prizes, which will show the prizes that are in-person only.  The bar will be open to purchase beverages, and participants are encouraged to bring food or order food to their table.

Connie Johnson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties for the monthly edition of "Cambridge Happenings" to talk about upcoming events in the Village of Cambridge. The Cambridge Community and Youth Center is set to host its Puzzle Palazzo on Saturday, March 14th. Teams of four to six will compete to finish a 500-piece puzzle in just two hours, with a smoked pork dinner included in the $100 entry fee. Doors open at 4:45 PM, and the contest kicks off at 5:30. All proceeds benefit the center. On Sunday, the local food pantry at 123 West Exchange Street will be open from 3 to 5 PM. Plus, mark your calendars for a village-wide Easter egg hunt at College Square Park on March 28th. Mark your calendars: community yard sales are set for May 8th and 9th, and cleanup day for May 15th.

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the new process for requesting medical records and severe storm safety. OSF St. Luke is rolling out a new process for requesting medical records, starting March 16th. Instead of walk-in requests at the hospital, patients are encouraged to use OSF MyChart for a faster, more secure experience. For those less comfortable with technology, records can also be requested by phone at 309-852-7785, by fax at 309-852-7591, or by email—details are available on the hospital's social media pages. Alongside this policy update, OSF reminds everyone to review emergency kits and prepare for spring storms. Severe weather training is also available on March 26th at OSF St. Mary in Galesburg from 6 to 8 PM in Room 9 of the Education Building. Registration is not required for the severe weather training. 

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the 12 Communities in 12 Months Event in Orion for March, insurance navigators, National Groundwater Awareness Week, emergency supply checks, and food safety. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments are highlighting several key programs this month. Residents are urged to check emergency supplies and replace smoke alarm batteries during the time change on March 8th as part of the "Set Your Clocks, Check Your Stocks" campaign. National Groundwater Awareness Week, March 8-14, is the perfect time for homeowners to schedule annual water well inspections to ensure water safety and prevent costly repairs. Meanwhile, anyone serving food at local events this summer must submit permit applications in advance. For those needing health insurance help, in-person assistance is available at multiple local venues throughout March.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about International Women's Day, Colon Cancer Awareness Month, free FIT tests, 12 Communities in 12 Months in Orion for the March event, CPR classes, WIC services in National Nutrition Month, and insurance navigators. International Women's Day arrives this Sunday, with the Henry and Stark County Health Departments partnering with First Choice Healthcare to spotlight women's health. RaeAnn Tucker notes that clinics in Kewanee and Toulon provide essential services such as annual exams, pap smears, breast exams, and contraceptive counseling. Appointments are available to women of all ages, including those via Medicaid or insurance. This month, residents aged 45 to 75 can pick up free home FIT tests for early colorectal cancer screening—no appointment needed. For updates, call 309-852-5272 or find the Henry and Stark County Health Departments on social media for resources and event information.

Samantha Rux and Kathleen Hendricks joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about how OSF On-Call Urgent Care is making healthcare more accessible for area residents. Samantha Rux and lead advanced practice nurse Kathleen Hendricks explained how the virtual service provides 24/7 urgent care from the comfort of home. Using a phone, tablet, or computer, patients can connect with a medical provider through an online questionnaire or video visit. Common concerns like colds, rashes, mild burns, and UTIs can be treated quickly without leaving the house. Prescriptions are sent directly to your pharmacy if needed. Services are available for a flat fee and provide a convenient alternative to traditional urgent care visits. Visit the OSF HealthCare On-Call website or the OSF MyChart app to begin a visit.

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about broken heart syndrome, reverse dieting to maintain weight loss, and the importance of male friendships for men. OSF Healthcare is highlighting topics vital to community health this month. As February marks Heart Month, OSF St. Luke is urging people to recognize symptoms of “broken heart syndrome,” which can be triggered by intense emotional or physical stress. The hospital's cardiology experts are available for consultation and diagnostic testing, including outpatient exams. OSF is also releasing features on reverse dieting to support sustained weight management after weight loss, with guidance from local dietitians. Another focus is the importance of male friendships in overall well-being, addressed through OSF's behavioral health experts. Further details and stories are available on the OSF Healthcare website and Facebook page.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Health Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Cancer Awareness Month, heart health tips, insurance navigators, and February 12 Communities in 12 Months. February is National Cancer Prevention Awareness Month, and local health officials are reminding the public that many cancers are preventable. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, alongside First Choice Healthcare, point out that quitting tobacco, staying active, keeping a healthy weight, and practicing sun safety can significantly reduce cancer risk. Regular screenings and vaccinations, such as the HPV vaccine, further boost prevention. Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon provide screenings and immunizations, supporting early detection and healthier lifestyles. For more information about available services or to book an appointment, residents can contact First Choice Healthcare at 309-852-5272 or 309-852-3115.

Andrew Regal joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about his experiences with workplace bullying and his quest to educate employers and employees on how to survive workplace bullying. During the isolation of the pandemic, Andy Regal began documenting his life story, aiming to leave a meaningful legacy for his children, Sophie and Lucas. As he revisited decades spent in the cutthroat media industry, a painful realization emerged: workplace bullying had been a constant, corrosive force. Raised outside Chicago with values centered on respect and fairness, he once believed hard work would shield him. Yet, aggressive and demeaning behavior became a daily reality in New York's fast-paced production world. Motivated by this self-reflection, he now seeks to help others recognize, address, and overcome psychological harassment in their own workplaces. Andy's upcoming publication, “Surviving Bully Culture,” is making waves in the literary world ahead of its April 2026 release. The book takes a bold stance, urging a shift away from harmful norms and encouraging a culture built on authenticity and self-compassion. Early buzz promises a practical guide for anyone seeking positive change in their personal or professional lives. Readers who pre-order now are eligible for exclusive bonuses, making this a timely opportunity for those interested in overcoming adversity and fostering kindness in daily interactions. Stay tuned as anticipation grows for this powerful new resource. Pre-order "Surviving Bully Culture" here or on Amplify Publishing for a 10% discount here. If you are experiencing workplace bullying and need assistance, contact Andy Regal by email at aregalmedia@gmail.com or on his website.

The Kewanee City Council is considering several key ordinances this week. Bill 26-13 proposes amendments to regulations on Tianeptine and Kratom, aiming to update public health guidelines. The council voted to prohibit the sale of Tianeptine and Kratom within the city limits of Kewanee. Bill 26-17 focuses on changes to permitting requirements for large solar energy systems, reflecting the city's commitment to renewable energy initiatives. Council members are also evaluating a special use permit for Indigo Bunting Solar, LLC, to develop property south of 1051 West South Street. Additionally, Bill 26-19 could authorize the sale of surplus city land on West Fifth Street. A discussion on possible updates to the city's waterworks regulations is also scheduled. Landscape waste burning and collection begin in April.

Katie Laleman joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming Market Outlook Seminar, Women in Ag Conference, and Farm Bureau membership. The Henry County Farm Bureau is gearing up for a busy March, hosting important events to support local agriculture. A key highlight is the Market Outlook seminar on March 12th at Lavender Crest, led by market analyst Darren Newsome. Interested participants are encouraged to RSVP by March 5th by calling 309-937-2411. Toward the month's end, the annual Women in Agriculture Conference takes place on March 27th at Bally's Quad Cities, featuring keynote speaker Tara Barrett-Dusen. With registration filling fast, attendees can learn more at womeninagricultureconference.com. Farm Bureau membership remains open to both those in agriculture and supporters, unlocking a wide array of discounts and benefits.

The Kewanee City Council is considering several significant ordinances and resolutions this session. Among them, Bill 26-13 proposes amendments to local regulations on substances such as Tianeptine and Kratom, which could impact their legality and sale within the city. The resolution was tabled. Other items include Bill 26-14, which seeks an experimental alternative work schedule for the Kewanee Police Department in collaboration with the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police. The council will also review agreements to reconstruct portions of IL Route 81, including plans for water main relocation and sanitary extension, essential for infrastructure improvements in partnership with the state and engineering firm Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc.

Watch the January 26th Kewanee City Council meeting below. The Hutchison Engineering Pavement Index presentation aims to address road conditions and future maintenance. Council members will also discuss a side letter of agreement linked to the firefighters' union, potentially affecting local emergency response. Streetlights may soon brighten neighborhoods, pending approval of Ameren Illinois' proposal to install them for public safety. Dana Peterson is under consideration for a cash rent farming lease. A proposed agreement could see Kewanee police providing security at Wethersfield school events. Finally, the council will review ordinances on regulating substances like tianeptine and kratom.

Cambridge Happenings with Connie Johnson, Burrito Fundraiser, National Honor Society Hygiene Collection, Easter Egg Hunt, City-Wide Yard Sales, and City-Wide Clean-Up. Cambridge National Honor Society students are kicking off their Comfort and Care Drive, collecting essentials for the Viking Vault at the high school. Donations of toiletries, hats, gloves, socks, laundry detergent, and non-perishable food are needed and can be dropped off at the school or at donation jars in local businesses until the 27th. Mark your calendars for the annual Easter Egg Hunt on March 28th at 2 PM, with staggered time slots by age group and a special appearance by the Easter bunny. Citywide yard sales are set for May 8th and 9th, followed by a citywide cleanup on May 15th.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes was joined by health care providers, students, patients and the Illinois Academy of Physician Associates for a press conference on a new law that would modernize PA practice laws, improving health care access across the state. “Last year, I was proud to sponsor legislation to begin the journey to allow physician assistants to practice to their full potential,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “This year's Senate Bill 3421 is critical as we face an access to health care crisis in Illinois.” With similar training as nurses and doctors, PAs can provide high-quality health care, but have run into difficulties getting their license approved due to a long, tedious paperwork approval process. Senate Bill 3421 would remove outdated practice barriers for PAs, allowing them to deliver care more effectively and efficiently. The legislation allows PAs to obtain a license to prescribe and administer certain controlled substances without a written agreement from a doctor, as nurses are currently able to do. “This legislation is vital because our healthcare system continues to face increasing strain. Recognizing and empowering PAs in our communities will make a significant impact,” said Timothy Kinsey, a PA in emergency medicine and executive director of IAPA. “They are highly trained professionals who can serve as the first line of defense against serious health issues.” This legislation is crucial as it aligns with the growing demand for health care services while maintaining high standards of safety and quality. “Many communities, including my own, are experiencing medical deserts, and PAs are a vital part of the solution,” said Cervantes. “The federal government has initiated a Rural Health Transformation initiative, and Illinois risks leaving tens of millions of dollars on the table if we do not modernize our PA practice laws. The time to act is now.” Senate Bill 3421 awaits assignment to a legislative committee.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Heart Health Month, Dr. Ford's retirement, insurance navigators, the new WIC location in Kewanee, and 12 communities in 12 months. February marks American Heart Month, and area health officials are urging residents to prioritize heart health. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are now offering free access to automated blood pressure monitors in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon. Individuals can use these monitors and take home a printout of their results. A new loaner program also allows residents to track blood pressure at home. The new WIC offices in Kewanee are open at 109 South Burr Boulevard, offering expanded services for families. In other news, Dr. Donald Ford retires after nearly five decades of distinguished service. Details about insurance help, WIC applications, and health resources can be found at henrystarkhealth.com. Health insurance navigators are available at several local venues in February to help with coverage questions and enrollment.