FREEPORT CITY COUNCIL FAILS TO CENSURE ALDERWOMAN
At its June 1 meeting, the Freeport City Council considered a motion to censure 5th Ward Alderwoman Cecilia Stacy.
The motion, brought forward by Alderman Tom Klemm and Alderwoman Joy Sellers, alleged that Stacy "showed disrespect" and "berated" a Freeport police officer over complaints the officer had no control over during a neighborhood watch meeting May 19.
The resolution states that "such actions are a direct breach of the trust placed in Alderwoman Stacy by the voters of the city of Freeport."
During the meeting, multiple residents spoke during public comment to defend Stacy. Two said they were present at the neighborhood watch meeting in question but did not observe behavior that matched the allegations in the resolution. While acknowledging that Stacy can be passionate, they said nothing she said or did would be considered "inappropriate."
When the resolution came up for discussion, Klemm and Sellers made their case before giving the floor to Freeport Police Chief Jacquelyn Frausto. Frausto addressed the council in a lengthy statement and accused Stacy of "creating unnecessary tension, eroding trust and damaging morale" through her actions.
Alderwoman Rachel Simmons defended Stacy, arguing that since none of the council members were present at the neighborhood watch meeting, none could definitively know what occurred.
Ultimately, the motion came to a vote, with Klemm, Sellers and Shadle voting in favor and Simmons, Johnson and Stacy voting against. Mayor Jodi Miller broke the tie with a vote in the affirmative. However, under council rules, the resolution required five affirmative votes to pass. As a result, the motion to censure Stacy failed.
Aldermen Larry Sanders and Don Parker were absent.
At the end of the meeting, Stacy criticized the council for taking up the resolution and suggested she intends to pursue legal action, citing what she described as a violation of her free speech rights.
SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION MAKES DIASTER LOANS AVAILABLE
A month after a powerful EF-2 tornado struck Lena and parts of Stephenson County, federal disaster assistance is now available for residents and businesses working to recover.
The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved a disaster declaration for damage caused by the April 17 storms, making low-interest loans available to homeowners, renters, businesses and certain nonprofits in Stephenson County and surrounding counties, including Carroll, Jo Daviess, Ogle and Winnebago.
Business owners can qualify for up to $2 million in physical damage assistance, while homeowners may receive up to $500,000 for structural repairs.
Officials say loan payments are deferred for the first year. Applications for physical damage loans are due July 17. Residents can apply online through the SBA's MySBA Loan Portal at https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance/physical-damage-loans
LWPC GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD FINISHES SEASON ON TOP
The Lena-Winslow/Pearl City girls track and field team capped a remarkable season with a third-place finish at the IHSA Class 1A state finals in Charleston.
The Panthers scored 43 points, finishing behind co-champions St. Anthony and Maroa-Forsyth. Leading the way was Brooklynn Kaiser, who won the Class 1A state championship in the high jump.
Lena-Winslow/Pearl City also dominated the relay events, winning state titles in the 4x100, 4x200 and 4x400-meter relays. The 4x400 relay team of Harper Hastings, Adelynn Anderson, Mia Diffenderfer and Sienna Hastings set a Class 1A state record in the process.
The strong showing helped secure one of the best finishes in program history and highlighted the depth and talent of the Panthers' state-qualifying squad.
Congratulations on an outstanding season, ladies!
HONORING A FORMER HCC ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
Highland Community College and the Freeport community are mourning the loss of longtime coach and athletic director Donald Tune.
Tune led Highland's men's basketball program from 1967 to 1971 and again from 1980 to 1993, while also serving as the college's athletic director before retiring. Over a career that spanned decades, he mentored countless student-athletes and became known for his leadership, dedication and passion for education and sports.
A U.S. Air Force veteran, Tune also coached and taught in Michigan, Iowa and Illinois. He is survived by his wife, Sandra; two children; and a sister.
FACC/UIC OFFERING NO INSURANCE STREET MEDICINE
Freeport residents in need of medical care but without health insurance will have an opportunity to receive free medical attention next month.
The Freeport Area Church Cooperative, or FACC, is partnering with the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford to bring its Street Medicine program to Freeport on Tuesday, June 23.
Doctors will be available on site from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the FACC facility at 514 S. Chicago Ave. Organizers say no insurance is required, and individuals may seek medical attention for any health concern.
The Street Medicine program is designed to improve access to health care for underserved residents by bringing medical services directly into the community. Appointments are not required.
HIGHLIGHTING A FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT GRANT WINNER
A downtown Freeport building is set for a major makeover thanks to the city's 2026 Façade Improvement Grant Program.
One of seven projects selected this year is the building at 2 W. Spring St., at the corner of Spring and Chicago streets. Plans call for the structure to be renovated into two retail spaces on the first floor and two residential apartments on the second floor, with indoor parking for tenants.
Exterior improvements will include repairing and repainting the stucco to its original white color, installing new windows and adding a new awning.
City officials say the project will enhance the appearance of the neighborhood, encourage downtown investment and support ongoing revitalization efforts in Freeport's historic business district.
MOSQUITO ABATEMENT BEGINS IN FREEPORT
The Freeport Mosquito Abatement District is reminding residents to help combat mosquitoes this summer by reporting problem areas and eliminating standing water around their homes.
Residents can call the mosquito control hotline to report high mosquito activity, stagnant water or neglected swimming pools. The hotline can also be used to sign up for notifications before mosquito control truck spraying takes place.
Officials say mosquitoes can spread diseases such as West Nile virus and heartworm, making prevention important. Homeowners are encouraged to clean gutters, empty birdbaths and containers regularly, remove standing water and keep grass and shrubs trimmed.
Due to high call volumes, residents also may contact the mosquito control program by email for assistance. Phone: 1-800-942-2555. Email: callcenter@clarke.com.
MUSIC ON CHICAGO RETURNS
Summer nights and live music return to downtown Freeport this week as the Greater Freeport Partnership kicks off the 2026 Music on Chicago season.
The first concert of the summer takes place Friday, June 5, at the Freeport Art Plaza on E. Douglas St. Performers Rollin Whiskey and Lobbin Robbins will take the stage for an evening of outdoor entertainment.
Gates open at 5 p.m., and a $5 donation is requested for admission. Children 5 and under get in free. Food trucks and beverages will be available on site.
Organizers encourage attendees to bring lawn chairs, gather with friends and enjoy a night of music, community and summer fun in downtown Freeport.
UW OF OGLE COUNTY BRINGS BACK SUMMER EATS MEAL PROGRAM
The United Way of Ogle County is once again helping ensure local children have access to nutritious meals during the summer months through its Summer Eats program.
The initiative provides free meals to children and teens while school is out, helping fill the gap left when school breakfast and lunch programs end for the summer. The program is part of a statewide effort to combat childhood hunger and improve food security for families across Illinois.
United Way officials say no child should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from during summer break. Meal sites are available throughout Ogle County, offering easy access to healthy food at no cost to families.
For more information on meal locations and schedules, please call (815) 284-3339.
JO DAVIESS COUNTY SHARES RECORD FOR LARGEST SPRING TURKEY HARVEST
Jo Daviess County once again proved to be one of Illinois' premier destinations for turkey hunting this spring.
According to preliminary figures from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Jo Daviess County tied for the highest turkey harvest in the state during the 2026 spring season, with hunters harvesting 646 wild turkeys. The county shared the top spot with Jefferson County.
Statewide, hunters set a new Illinois record by harvesting more than 20,800 turkeys, surpassing the previous record set just last year. Permit sales and hunter success rates also increased, with about 22% of permits resulting in a harvested bird.
The strong showing in Jo Daviess County highlights the area's healthy wild turkey population and its continued reputation as one of the top turkey hunting regions in Illinois.
ILLINOIS SENATE PASSES AI ACCOUNTABILITY BILL
Illinois lawmakers have approved legislation aimed at increasing oversight of the most advanced artificial intelligence systems. Senate Bill 315 passed unanimously in the Illinois House last week and now heads to Gov. JB Pritzker, who has indicated he plans to sign it.
The measure would require major AI developers to publish safety and transparency plans, undergo independent audits and report potential risks associated with their technology. Supporters say the bill is designed to address public safety concerns as AI systems become more powerful while still allowing innovation to continue.
The Illinois attorney general would enforce the law, with penalties of up to $3 million per violation. Lawmakers say the measure could help establish a national standard for AI accountability.
VACCINATION RATES FOR ILLINOIS STUDENTS INCREASES SLIGHTLY
Illinois health officials say student vaccination rates are moving in the right direction.
New data from the Illinois Department of Public Health shows immunization rates increased for 10 of the 11 vaccines required for school attendance during the 2025-26 school year. State officials report that all but one vaccine met or exceeded the state's 95% coverage goal, helping protect students from the spread of infectious diseases.
The measles vaccination rate rose to nearly 97% statewide, a key milestone as measles cases have increased in other parts of the country. Health officials credit strong participation from families, schools, nurses and health care providers.
State Superintendent Tony Sanders says high immunization rates help keep students healthy and reduce disruptions to learning. Illinois officials say they will continue efforts to ensure families have access to vaccines and reliable health information.
DICK DURBIN GIVES FAREWELL ADDRESS
U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin delivered a farewell address to Illinois lawmakers last week, reflecting on more than three decades in the Senate and urging leaders to defend democratic values.
The Springfield native, who plans to retire next year, cited Abraham Lincoln's House Divided speech as a warning against growing political divisions in America. Durbin highlighted key accomplishments during his career, including efforts to reduce smoking and expand opportunities for immigrant families through the DREAM Act.
He also encouraged state lawmakers to address youth vaping and continue investing in major infrastructure projects.
Durbin said the greatest reward of public service has been the opportunity to help people across Illinois and the nation.
YOUTH CONFERENCE AT KING COMMUNITY CAMPUS
A youth conference aimed at inspiring and empowering local students is coming to Freeport on Friday, June 5.
Sponsored by the CYS Youth Committee, the event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at King Community Campus, 511 S. Liberty Ave. Registration and breakfast begin at 10 a.m., with conference activities starting at 11 a.m.
The conference is open to students in grades 5 through 12 and will feature workshops, guest speakers, activities, food, drinks and incentives. Freeport Police Chief Jacquelyn Frausto will serve as the general session speaker.
Organizers say the event is designed to provide young people with valuable information, encouragement and opportunities for personal growth.
YOUTH TENNIS PROGRAM BEGINS
The Freeport Park District is serving up an opportunity for young athletes to learn the game of tennis this summer.
A youth tennis program for children ages 6 to 12 will be held June 8-11 at the Read Park tennis courts. Sessions run Monday through Thursday from 5 to 6 p.m.
The program is designed to introduce players to the fundamentals of tennis while helping them develop skills and confidence on the court in a fun and supportive environment.
The cost is $25 for Freeport residents and $30 for nonresidents. Registration is open now and must be completed by June 5.
For more information or to register, call (815) 235-6114 or visit their website.
CULINARY HERBS 101 AT U OF I EXTENSION
Stephenson County residents interested in growing fresh herbs at home can take part in an upcoming University of Illinois Extension program.
Culinary Herbs 101 will be held Wednesday, June 10, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Senior Resource Center, 206 E. Stephenson St., Freeport.
The program will cover the basics of selecting, planting, growing, harvesting and using culinary herbs in everyday cooking. Participants will learn about popular herbs that thrive in northern Illinois gardens and containers, along with tips for preserving herbs and enhancing meals with fresh flavors.
The cost is $5, and advance registration is required. Those interested can register here:
https://extension.illinois.edu/events/2026-06-10-culinary-herbs-101
MUSIC ON THE PATIO AT PARK HILLS
Live music returns to Park Hills Golf Course on Friday, June 12, as the Freeport Park District kicks off its 2026 Music on the Patio series.
The event will feature local favorite Cross Cut performing from 5 to 8 p.m. on the patio at Park Hills Golf Course, 3240 W. Stephenson St., Freeport.
Residents are invited to enjoy an evening of live music, food, drinks and scenic views overlooking the golf course. The event is open to the public and offers a relaxed atmosphere for families, friends and music lovers alike.
Music on the Patio will continue throughout the summer with additional performances scheduled in July and August.
CAMP RAMP
Registration is now underway for Camp RAMP, a free summer program designed to help young people with disabilities build life skills, leadership abilities and confidence for the future.
Hosted by RAMP Disability Resources and Services, Camp RAMP: Building Skills for the Real World will take place July 27-30 at RAMP's Rockford office, 202 Market St. The camp is open to youth and young adults ages 16 to 22 from across northern Illinois.
Participants will take part in hands-on projects, tour local organizations, hear from guest speakers with disabilities and learn skills that support independent living and future employment opportunities. Organizers say the program is designed to prepare young adults for success in adulthood while helping them build connections within the community.
The camp is free, but space is limited. Registration is required by July 1. Call 815-968-7467 or email at mebert@rampcil.org.
IN CLOSING …
Before we sign off this week, we'd like to ask all of you for something we know you have: your opinion. Freepod has been broadcasting the news you've been missing for more than two years, and we want to hear from you about how we're doing.
We have compiled a survey that takes about five minutes to complete. Please give us your feedback so we can continue to improve and better serve our community. We will begin compiling results June 5, so please complete the survey before then. You can find a link to the survey in the print version of this podcast on our website.
We'd also like to remind you to listen to this past week's interview. Freepod host Becky Connors spoke with Ferol Labash and Kourtney Kraft from Parkview Home. The nonprofit long-term care facility is getting ready to celebrate 100 years of service to the Freeport community. Ferol and Kourtney spoke with Becky about the history of the organization, as well as plans for the centennial celebration coming up in July.
This coming Tuesday, Tim Connors will share his conversation with John Grider of Mac & Cheese Antiques in Stockton. That interview will be available starting at noon Tuesday, June 9. 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 valuable content for our program, our partners at WNIJ in DeKalb for helping share Freepod with a larger audience, and the Media Studies Department at Highland Community College for producing this podcast.
As always, please like us on Facebook, subscribe on the podcast platform of your choice and share with your friends. If you'd like to make a tax-deductible contribution to support local news content, please visit our website at www.freepod.org.
This has been Freepod. Thank you for listening.
Copy Edited by Eryn Lent