REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOLS UNDER INVESTIGATION BY FEDERAL DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Thirty-six Illinois public school districts are under investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice, including several in northwest Illinois.
Districts named in the review include Freeport, Oregon, Stockton and Galena.
The DOJ says it is examining whether schools are teaching sexual orientation and gender identity content in prekindergarten through 12th grade — and whether parents are properly notified of their right to opt their children out of that instruction.
The investigation also will examine how districts handle access to bathrooms, locker rooms and participation in girls sports, as well as compliance with federal Title IX regulations.
Combating what the federal government describes as "wokeness" in public schools has been a priority since the current Trump administration took office.
In a statement, Freeport School District 145 officials said they are unsure why the district was selected but are confident its policies comply with state and federal law. Oregon Community Unit School District 220 leaders echoed that message, saying there is no reason for concern and that the district will fully cooperate with the investigation.
Meanwhile, JB Pritzker's office criticized the investigation, calling it politically motivated, while Andrew Chesney said he plans to contact local districts to better understand the situation.
The DOJ has not announced a timeline for the investigation or any potential findings.
COLUMBIA COLLEGE OFFERING DISCOUNT FOR HCC ALUMNI
Students and staff connected to Highland Community College could soon see a break on tuition costs.
Columbia College is offering a 30% tuition discount for the 2026-27 academic year, marking 30 years of partnership between the two schools.
The discount is available to Highland employees, their families and alumni who have completed at least three credit hours.
It applies to online bachelor's, master's and certificate programs and can be combined with other grants to reach the full discount.
College leaders say the offer is a way to thank the Highland community and continue expanding access to flexible higher education opportunities.
School officials encourage interested students to contact Columbia College advisers to learn more.
Email: freeport@ccis.edu
Phone: (815) 599-3585
HCC HORTICULTURE SELLING SEEDLINGS
If you are getting your garden ready for the summer season, Highland Community College students have you covered.
Students in the college's horticulture program are selling vegetable and flower seedlings as part of a seasonal fundraiser.
Orders can be placed online through May 8, with pickup scheduled for Thursday, May 14.Proceeds help support hands-on learning opportunities for students in the program.
For more information or to place an order, visit https://veg-flower-order.cheddarup.com/
STOCKTON FARMERS WIN CONSERVATION AWARD
A Jo Daviess County farm couple is being recognized for leadership in conservation.
Greg and Janis Thoren, who raise crops and cattle near Stockton, have been named the 2026 Illinois Leopold Conservation Award recipients. The honor recognizes farmers who go above and beyond in protecting soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat.
The Thorens will receive a $10,000 award and will be recognized at events later this summer.
On their 2,200-acre farm, the Thorens use regenerative practices such as cover crops, no-till farming and adaptive cattle grazing to improve soil and reduce erosion. Their approach also helps cut costs while strengthening long-term sustainability.
Named after conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award highlights landowners who inspire others through environmental stewardship.
Officials say the Thorens exemplify a growing movement focused on healthier soil, stronger farms and more resilient communities.
FREEPORT ANNOUNCES ELECTRONIC RECYCLING EVENT
The city of Freeport is hosting an electronic recycling event next month for local residents.
The event will take place June 6 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Stephenson County Fairgrounds.
Freeport residents can recycle items such as TVs, laptops, computer monitors and smartphones, with a limit of three screened devices per vehicle. Other electronics, including printers, keyboards and speakers, will be accepted without limit.
Appliances will not be accepted, and proof of Freeport residency will be required.
Officials say the event is part of an effort to reduce illegal dumping and keep the community clean.
Drivers are asked to enter from Walnut Road and follow posted traffic directions. The event is first-come, first-served and may end early if capacity is reached.
FREEPORT REFRESH IS UNDERWAY
The City of Freeport is reminding residents how to take part in its monthly "Re-Fresh Freeport" cleanup program.
On the first Saturday of each month, Freeport residents can bring trash and bulk items to the Freeport Transfer Station on South Walnut Road from 8 to 11 a.m. A valid ID is required to prove residency, and officials stress the program is strictly for those living within city limits.
Items not accepted include yard waste, tires, hazardous materials like paint and oil, and electronics such as TVs and computers.
City leaders say several vehicles have recently been turned away for not meeting residency requirements. They warn continued misuse could put the program at risk of being discontinued.
Officials encourage residents to follow the rules to help keep the program available and reduce illegal dumping.
INVASIVE SPECIES OF TICK FOUND IN NORTHERN ILLINOIS
Health officials are warning northwest Illinois residents to be on alert as a potentially aggressive tick species continues spreading into the region.
The Kendall County Health Department reports lone star ticks have now been detected in northern Illinois, with confirmed findings in nearby counties and conditions favorable for further spread.
Experts say the ticks, once mostly found in the southern U.S., are moving into the Midwest due to warmer temperatures.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lone star ticks can carry illnesses such as ehrlichiosis and tularemia and have been linked to a rare red meat allergy known as alpha-gal syndrome.
While not yet confirmed as established in every county, officials say their presence is likely regional, including areas of northwest Illinois.
Residents are urged to take precautions as tick season ramps up this month, including using insect repellent, wearing long clothing and checking for ticks after spending time outdoors.
MAJOR INTERSECTION BEGINS ROAD WORK
A major road construction project is now underway in northwest Illinois.
The Illinois Department of Transportation has started work to reconstruct the intersection of U.S. Route 20 and Illinois Route 73 in Lena.
The nearly $12 million project includes roadway grading, culvert replacement, new turn lanes and the installation of traffic signals.
Improvements will also extend along U.S. 20 from Rees Road to about a half-mile west of Illinois 73, with additional work just north and south of the intersection.
Drivers can expect lane closures and delays during construction.
The project is scheduled to be completed within one construction season, weather permitting.
NEW FOUR-WAY STOPS BEING INSTALLED
Drivers in Winnebago and Stephenson counties should prepare for changes at two local intersections starting this week.
The Illinois Department of Transportation says crews began installing new stop signs May 4 at Springfield Avenue and Safford Road in Rockford and at Illinois Route 75 and Rock City Road in Rock City.
Both locations will be converted into four-way stops. Currently, only traffic on Safford Road and Rock City Road is required to stop.
IDOT says additional warning signs, flashing beacons and pavement markings will be added to help alert drivers.
The project is expected to be completed by Memorial Day, weather permitting. Message boards will also be posted near each intersection to remind motorists of the changes.
MAJOR BRIDGE WORK IN JO DAVIESS COUNTY
If you're taking a trip to Dubuque soon, consider leaving a little earlier. The Illinois Department of Transportation says bridge work in Galena began Monday, May 4.
Crews are repairing the bridge deck on the span carrying U.S. Route 20 and Illinois Route 84 over the Galena River.
During construction, traffic will be reduced to one lane, controlled by temporary signals. The bridge will remain open to pedestrians throughout the project.
All lanes will reopen for the Memorial Day weekend, with lane closures resuming afterward. The project is expected to wrap up by the end of June.
Drivers are urged to use caution, follow posted signs, avoid distractions and watch for workers in the construction zone.
FNWIL OPENING OFFICE IN GALENA
A new chapter is beginning for local philanthropy in northwest Illinois.
The Foundation for Northwest Illinois has officially opened a new office in Galena, holding a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its location on Spring Street.
Leaders say the new space will strengthen the organization's ability to serve residents and partners across Jo Daviess and Carroll counties.
For nearly 50 years, the foundation has supported community projects, grants, and charitable giving throughout the region.
Officials say the new Galena office will make it easier for individuals and organizations to establish funds, apply for grants, and explore ways to give back locally.
The move reflects a continued commitment to expanding community impact across northwest Illinois.
STATE LOOKING FOR DROUGHT SOLUTIONS
Ongoing drought conditions are raising concerns about long-term water supply across Illinois, including in northwest Illinois.
While recent spring rains have helped improve surface conditions, experts say months of dry weather and above-average temperatures have taken a deeper toll on groundwater and rivers.
Illinois Department of Natural Resources officials say water levels in key river systems remain below normal for this time of year, highlighting the lingering effects of drought.
Trent Ford says Illinois often has a "mirage of abundance" when it comes to water, but supplies are more limited than many realize.
Communities across the state have already taken action, with some issuing water restrictions earlier this year.
Now, lawmakers in Springfield are beginning discussions on long-term water management, including how to regulate high-use industries such as data centers.
Officials say protecting water resources will be critical to maintaining quality of life across Illinois in the years ahead.
NUCLEAR SUBSIDIES BECOME FINANCIAL RELIEF FOR CONSUMERS
ComEd customers in northern Illinois could soon see some relief on their electric bills.
A provision in the state's 2021 Climate and Equitable Jobs Act is now returning money to ratepayers as rising energy prices and federal subsidies have boosted revenues for nuclear power operators.
The average residential customer is expected to see about a $19 credit on monthly bills in the coming months.
The program was originally designed to support struggling nuclear plants but includes a cap that sends excess revenue back to customers.
Since 2022, the initiative has provided more than $1.8 billion in net savings to ratepayers.
Officials say the credits help offset rising energy costs while supporting reliable, carbon-free power across the region.
PINT NIGHT FOR FREEPORT CONCERT BAND
The Freeport Concert Band is getting a boost from the community with an upcoming fundraiser at Lena Brewing Company.
The band has been selected as the beneficiary of a special Pint Night happening Thursday, May 7, starting at 5 p.m.
For every pint sold during the event, $1 will be donated to support the band's "Music Under the Stars" summer concert series.
Organizers say it is a great opportunity to enjoy a night out while helping keep live music thriving in the community.
Everyone is encouraged to attend, bring friends and show support for the Freeport Concert Band.
ROYAL SCOTS PRESENTS VINYL MASTERS
Highland Community College’s Royal Scots are set to take the stage for their annual spring performance.
The 58th annual Royal Scots Show, titled "Vinyl Masters: Hits of the '70s," will be held Friday, May 8, at 7 p.m. in the Ferguson Fine Arts Center.
The show will feature a high-energy lineup of 1970s favorites, complete with choreography, vocal harmonies and a live band with horns.
Audiences can expect music made famous by artists such as Elton John, Chicago, Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Wonder.
Director Randy Haldeman says the performance celebrates the sound and themes of the decade, many of which still resonate today.
Tickets are available at the door or here: https://highland.vbotickets.com/events.
6TH ANNUAL WORLD MIGRATORY BIRD DAY
A family-friendly event celebrating migratory birds is coming to Freeport.
The Northwest Illinois Bird and Nature Alliance is hosting its annual World Migratory Bird Day event Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oakdale Nature Preserve.
The free event will feature hands-on activities for all ages, including crafts, games, birdwatching and guided trail walks.
Birdwatching outings will take place throughout the day, led by local experts, with accessible trails available.
Organizers say this year's theme highlights the importance of community involvement in bird conservation.
Guests are encouraged to bring binoculars, though some will be available to borrow. The event will be held rain or shine.
PRETZEL CITY WINEFEST THROWS IT BACK TO THE 80S
Downtown Freeport is turning back the clock this weekend as the annual Pretzel City Winefest returns with an '80s theme.
Hosted by the Greater Freeport Partnership, the event takes place Saturday, May 9, from noon to 4 p.m. and is designed as a walkable tasting experience through downtown businesses.
Participants will check in at Re-Spun Records and Resale before visiting 18 locations offering wine and mocktail samples, along with opportunities to shop locally.
Tickets are $30 and include a tasting cup, $10 in Partnership Cash and a list of stops along the route.
Organizers say the goal is to bring people downtown while supporting small businesses.
New this year, a live DJ will play '80s hits on Chicago Avenue, adding to the retro atmosphere and giving visitors a chance to dance and celebrate throughout the day.
You can register online here.
FHS PRESENTS "PETER PAN GOES WRONG"
Freeport High School is bringing comedy to the stage with its upcoming production of "Peter Pan Goes Wrong."
Performances will run May 7-9 at 7 p.m. at the Jeannette Lloyd Theatre, 701 W. Empire St. in Freeport.
The play follows a fictional drama group attempting to stage the classic story of Peter Pan, only for everything that can go wrong to do exactly that.
Known for physical comedy, missed cues and chaotic mishaps, the show promises plenty of laughs for audiences of all ages.
Tickets are available through the Freeport School District, and the community is encouraged to attend and support local student performers.
IN CLOSING…
As we wrap up this week's show, we'd like to remind you to listen to last week's interview. Tim Connors spoke with Katie Quittschreiber, the new owner of Lena Brewing Company. Tim and Katie discussed Quittschreiber's plans for the taproom moving forward, as well as her transition from employee to owner.
This coming Tuesday, Becky Connors will speak with Bruce Cubberley. Cubberley is the executive director of the Freeport Park District and shares information about summer programming available through the district. The interview will be available starting at noon Tuesday, May 12. You can find it, and all of our other interviews, on our website, www.freepod.org, or wherever you get your podcasts.
We'd like to thank our community liaisons and reporters for providing content for our program, our partners at WNIJ in DeKalb for helping share Freepod with a larger audience, and the Mass Communication Department at Highland Community College for producing this podcast.
As always, please like us on Facebook, subscribe on your preferred podcast platform and share with your friends. If you'd like to make a tax-deductible contribution to support local news content, please visit www.freepod.org.
This has been Freepod. Thank you for listening.
Copy Edited by Eryn Lent