Mr. Epstein and the REST of the Story

🌞 Sunshine Strategies Radio: This Week’s Big Picture in 7 Minutes

In this week’s episode, we take a quick but meaningful trip through the headlines that shape our lives—from the global stage all the way to our own neighborhoods in Central Illinois.

🌍 Around the World: Calm on the surface, but economic uncertainty in Southeast Asia and record-breaking U.N. climate advisories remind us that global shifts still touch our daily lives—yes, even the price of your coffee.

Across the Nation: Congress slashes $1 billion from public media funding, leaving small-town radio and TV stations scrambling. What does this mean for the future of trusted local news and kids’ programming?

🏛️ Here in Illinois: A lawsuit over a deadly police chase raises questions about accountability, while new housing data shows renters need to make nearly $30 an hour just to afford a modest two-bedroom apartment.

🌱 Closer to Home:

• 180 more ZIP codes—including Sangamon and Macoupin counties—added to Illinois’ high-risk lead list, with new child testing requirements on the way.

• Jacksonville celebrates a new autism clinic, expanded early childhood resources, and even a women’s flag football team at Illinois College.

🏫 Culture & Education: MacMurray College archives shed new light on how WWII-era narratives shaped stereotypes, while Macomb faces the ripple effects of declining university enrollment.

👨‍👩‍👦 Family Notes: A Taylorville community health fair offers free services and fun for kids, but a local boil-water advisory means families should double-check tap water before filling those bottles.

We wrap it all up with a reminder that community isn’t just what we have—it’s what we do.

🎧 Listen now for your quick, family-friendly snapshot of the week—and stay connected to what matters most.

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