Prairie State Wire

Youth between the ages of 10 and 17 are invited to apply for youth wingshooting clinics and pheasant hunts at three Illinois state parks. These events are scheduled for Saturday, November 9, at Iroquois County State Wildlife Area in Iroquois County, Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area in Henry County, and Mackinaw River State Fish and Wildlife Area in Tazewell County.

Fort Massac Encampment brings history back to Metropolis

The Fort Massac Encampment is set to return to Metropolis, Illinois, on October 19 and 20. This annual event has been attracting thousands of visitors for five decades, offering a glimpse into life at Fort Massac during the 18th and early 19th centuries. The fort was a significant frontier outpost along the Ohio River from 1757 to 1814, serving France, Britain, and the early United States.

Illinois Conservation Foundation launches new awards to honor outdoor excellence

The Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF) has announced the introduction of the Illinois Outdoor Excellence Awards. This new initiative aims to honor significant contributions to the state's natural resources and outdoor heritage. The awards will be presented at the annual ICF Gala, alongside the induction of individuals into the Illinois Outdoor Hall of Fame.

Illinois Conservation Foundation announces new inductees into Outdoor Hall of Fame

The Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF) Board of Directors has announced the induction of seven individuals into the Illinois Outdoor Hall of Fame. The honorees are Angela Funk, Henry Eilers, Jeremiah Haas, Matt Mullady, Rich McElligott, Terry Wunderle, and Thomas Foss. The formal ceremony will take place during the annual ICF Gala in spring 2025.

Illinois opens state parks for youth waterfowl hunting in all zones

Numerous sites across Illinois will be accessible for youth waterfowl hunting during the 2024 hunting seasons. These include state parks, fish and wildlife areas, conservation areas, and recreation areas in the North Zone, Central Zone, South Central Zone, and South Zone. Federal sites under the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' (IDNR) waterfowl administrative rule will also be open.

Kevin Phillip Makowan, 35, Remembered for his Adventurous Spirit and Love for Family

Kevin Phillip Makowan passed away on Oct. 6. Below is the obituary.

Stephanie J. Jasik Remembered for Devotion to Family and Long Service at Little Company of Mary Hospital

Stephanie J. Jasik passed away on Oct. 6. Below is the obituary.

Officials highlight free Chicago area smoke alarm installation program

State and local fire safety officials gathered at the Lansing Fire Department to emphasize the importance of working smoke alarms and promote a no-cost installation program for residents in the Chicago area. Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera highlighted the state's commitment to community safety through programs like "Be Alarmed!" He noted, "Sadly, in 2023 there were 89 residential fire deaths in Illinois with the majority of these deaths occurring in homes without working smoke detectors."

Youth wingshooting clinics and pheasant hunts open for application in Illinois

Young hunters aged 10 to 17 are invited to apply for wingshooting clinics and pheasant hunts scheduled for October. The events will be held on October 19 at Edward R. Madigan State Park in Logan County and on October 26 at Clinton Lake State Recreation Area in DeWitt County.

VA’s Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loans in Illinois average $324,756 for Q3

The VA’s Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loans in Illinois for the third quarter of the fiscal year 2024 averaged $324,756, according to the Veterans Affairs Home Loans Index.

Johanna Becker Remembered as a Beloved Mother and Nana

Johanna Becker passed away on Oct. 5. Below is the obituary.

Daniel B. Kosiek, US Marine Corps Veteran, Remembered as Loving Husband and Father

Daniel B. Kosiek passed away on Oct. 5. Below is the obituary.

Illinois emphasizes fire prevention week with focus on working smoke alarms

Governor JB Pritzker has declared October 6-12 as Fire Prevention Week in Illinois. This announcement comes as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that working smoke alarms can reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half. Alarmingly, three out of five fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms.

Illinoisans urged to vaccinate as respiratory virus season begins