Some news from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources on grants: The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is accepting applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) grants now through Feb….

Inside: Getting ready for another spring session at the Capitol Another spring session of the Illinois House of Representatives is about to get underway. We will be returning to the…

Wishing all a safe and happy New Year as we ring in 2026!

May you have a joyous Christmas Day filled with your favorite traditions and surrounded by loved ones. Merry Christmas!

Inside: ‘Blackhawk Battalion’ guardsmen begin returning home Just in time for the Christmas holiday season, 265 Illinois National Guardsmen of the 2-130 Infantry, also known as the ‘Blackhawk Battalion’ have…

Our area is lucky to have some excellent skilled nursing facilities to care for our seniors. But unfortunately, there are occasional bad actors. All of us want to ensure the…

Last week I was honored with the “Policy Champion” award from Americans for Prosperity-Illinois for working on behalf of Illinois taxpayers. “Illinois needs more principled leaders like Rep. Swanson in…

Inside: “Policy Champion” award This week I was honored with the “Policy Champion” award from Americans for Prosperity-Illinois for working on behalf of Illinois taxpayers. “Illinois needs more principled leaders…

May you have a blessed Thanksgiving holiday surrounded by great company and enjoying delicious food. Happy Thanksgiving!

Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 230,000 Illinois residents and their families. It is the most common cause of dementia, leading to memory loss, confusion and the gradual loss of independence. The impact…