Regional Media Podcast Network

In Galva, Mayor Rich Volkert addressed concerns about understaffing in the local police department during a recent city council meeting. While ideally staffed with five officers, the department is currently operating with three. A new recruit has been added and is undergoing training, expected to join the force fully within a few months. Additionally, Volkert discussed the city's collaboration with Hometown Consulting to create a detailed master plan aimed at attracting new businesses and securing government grants—a crucial step after missing out on funding for the park district. Plans also include an upgrade to the city's webpage and the anticipated arrival of a new fire truck this spring.

Russ Hughes joined Host Seth Parlier on The Boiler Shop to talk about local sports and recap basketball games. 

Vincent, Greyson, and Aiden are third-grade students at Wethersfield Elementary School. They joined Wake Up Tri-Counties with the "Good News" from their Christmas break. 

State Representative Travis Weaver, representing the 93rd District in Illinois, was sworn in for his second term today in Springfield. Weaver emphasized his commitment to education, fiscal responsibility, job growth, and agriculture. He aims to address significant budget deficits while reducing taxes and regulations.

“It is the honor and privilege of a lifetime to represent the amazing people of the 93rd District in the Illinois House of Representatives,” said Rep. Weaver. “I look forward to continuing to bring effective, common-sense conservative reform to Springfield. My bipartisan legislative priorities continue to be Education, Fiscal Responsibility, Job Growth, and Agriculture. We are facing huge budget deficits this year, and in the future, if we don’t start enacting common-sense reforms and impactful legislation. Illinoisans are tired of being over-taxed and over-regulated, and I’ll continue to fight for the hard-working folks of the 93rd District.”

Chris Balkema was sworn in as the new Senator for the state's 53rd District. As part of the 104th General Assembly, Balkema steps into the role with a promise to diligently serve and address the needs of his constituents. Before this, he built a robust political and professional background, notably serving as the Chairman of the Grundy County Board and holding leadership positions at Caterpillar. Balkema plans to collaborate closely with local leaders to foster positive change across the 13 counties within his district. His proactive engagement has already seen him meeting with numerous mayors to fully grasp district-wide priorities. His tenure is now eagerly anticipated as he advocates for growth and unity throughout Illinois. Senator Balkema has a Bachelor of Science in Business Systems from Taylor University and an MBA from Bradley University. He and his wife of 26 years reside in Channahon and are parents of two sons in college.