(SPRINGFIELD) The sixth annual winner of the “Makers Madness” contest was announced yesterday in Springfield. Chosen in the bracket-style competition from a field of more than 250 products, MTH Pumps’ aerial firefighting helicopter refill pump was named as the 2025 “Coolest Thing Made in Illinois.” This specific pump was designed to cut the refill time of water tanks used on helicopters to fight fires in half, from the prior one minute plus, to as little as 30 seconds. MTH Pumps is a family owned and operated business based in Plano, Illinois that began in 1965. One of the other final four entries is made in Carmi.
(SPRINGFIELD) Illinois Democratic Senate President Don Harmon has been ordered to repay some $4 million in political contributions that the 39th District lawmaker illegally received during the most recent election. According to the Chicago Tribune, state election officials report that Harmon’s campaign committee accepted numerous donations that exceeded Illinois contribution caps that were put in place to curtail big-money influence in elections. The Chicagoland Democrat has until next Friday, April 18th, to return the funds.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois Department of Corrections are partnering today in Peoria to sponsor a “Summit of Hope” resource fair in recognition of April being recognized as Second Chance Month. Dedicated to support those transitioning from incarceration back into society, today’s event serves as a one-stop fair, with services such as health screenings, job opportunities, housing assistance, & legal aid.
(SPRINGFIELD) Illinois youth turkey hunters harvested a preliminary record total of 2,091 birds during the 2025 four-day season, which ended this past Sunday. This year’s number was 81 turkey’s more than last year’s harvest of 2,010. There were 6,573 permits issued for this year’s season, 42 more than a year ago. The top counties for the turkey season were Jefferson & Pike, each at 69, followed by Randolph at 67, Fayette at 62, and Macoupin at 60. Looking are our downstate area harvest numbers, Wayne County was at 50, Clay & Marion at 49, Effingham at 42, Crawford at 37, White at 34, Jasper at 29, Cumberland at 21, Richland at 17, Lawrence at 13, Edwards at 11, and Wabash at 6. For more, logon at dnr.illinois.gov.