McLean County Times

State Representative Dennis Tipsword Jr. (R-Pontiac) shared updates from around Illinois’ 105th District in his latest newsletter, highlighting local achievements, legislative developments, and community resources.

The Metamora Grade School Girls Cross Country Team recently won the IESA Class 3A state championship at Maxwell Park in Normal, marking their second consecutive state title. Rayleigh Reach led the team, finishing sixth overall with a time of 12:20 over two miles. Tipsword extended his congratulations, stating, "Congratulations, girls! Our entire community is proud of you, and we wish you continued success in the future!"

In educational news, Woodland Community School District 5, with assistance from Illinois Valley Community College (IVCC), will offer students a pathway to earn an associate’s degree while still in high school.

During the first week of the fall veto session, Tipsword criticized House Democrats for what he described as partisan actions rather than addressing pressing issues. "Instead of focusing on the serious problems facing Illinoisans, House Democrats chose to play partisan political games," he said. He noted that resolutions were passed criticizing the Trump Administration, law enforcement, and Republicans, while no progress was made on issues like mass transit funding, energy prices, or the cost of living.

Republicans voiced concerns that legislative attention was diverted from important matters such as taxes, energy costs, and public transit. The veto session will continue from October 28-30 in Springfield.

Tipsword addressed rising electricity prices in Illinois, linking them to the shutdown of coal mines and power plants. He noted that utilities have promised possible relief with cooler weather but said high prices persist into fall.

On education standards, Tipsword expressed disappointment with recent decisions by the Illinois State Board of Education: "This past summer, the Illinois State Board of Education chose to lower the bar for Illinois students rather than helping them excel in core subjects. We should be raising the standards, not lowering them, for our children."

The newsletter also highlighted a record-setting deer harvest by Illinois youth hunters this season and announced new waterfowl hunting zones and dates for 2026-2030 set by the Department of Natural Resources.

Tipsword commented on recent campaign finance controversy involving Senate President Don Harmon: "Senate President Don Harmon improperly accepted millions of dollars in campaign contributions and broke state elections laws. He was set to get hit with the largest campaign finance fine in Illinois history and suddenly the State Board of Elections is deadlocked on partisan lines on the issue. It’s no wonder we can’t get ethics reform passed in Illinois."

Eighty agricultural literacy coalitions across Illinois received $668,150 in grants from the Illinois Agriculture Association Foundation for classroom lessons during the 2025-2026 school year. These grants will benefit 89 counties statewide.

The newsletter included resources for seniors navigating Medicare Open Enrollment (October 15–December 7), pointing to fact sheets and counseling offered through local agencies via the Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP).

Tipsword concluded by expressing condolences to Darren and Cindy Bailey after a family tragedy: "My wife Betsy and I, along with our entire family, would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Darren and Cindy Bailey during this incredibly difficult time. Please pray for their family and keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they are confronted with the unimaginable loss of their son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren."

Tipsword has represented Illinois’ 105th House District since being elected in 2023 to succeed Dan Brady.