Come along with host Deann and enjoy the wildlife of Illinois at Snowman's Reindeer Farm in Canton, then travel back in time and explore a pre-Civil War secret hideaway. Other locations visited include Wildlife Prairie Park, Landmark Cafe & Creperie, Snowman's Reindeer Farm, and Lovejoy Homestead.

A Capitol Fourth premieres Tuesday, July 4, 2023, at 7 p.m. CT. Watch on your PBS station, the PBS App, pbs.org, and here on the PBS YouTube channel. More at pbs.org/capitolfourth

President Joe Biden visits Illinois, Gov. JB Pritzker signs a new law that’ll make big changes to insurance coverage, Illinois’ Assault Weapons Ban goes to court, and the Chicago Bears are still looking for a new home. All those issues and more round out the week’s news and politics for June 30, 2023.

In episode three, host Deann takes you to Peru, Illinois to tour a museum dedicated to the area's one-time largest employer, the Western Clock Company, or as it was better known, Westclox. Then explore an alpaca farm in Tiskilwa, visit an indoor rock-climbing facility, and explore local history. Backyard Journeys is produced by WTVP.

Fred Martino speaks with Jenna Jamieson, author of “Giving Back…lessons from an adopted immigrant on why a happy life is about helping others.” Jamieson is also the Director of the Public Health undergraduate program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

Gov. JB Pritzker is taking criticism from his own party after limiting eligibility for some state-funded programs, plus the unveiling of former Gov. Bruce Rauner’s portrait at the capitol and more.

On the debut episode of “Exploring the Heartland,” Fred Martino talks with Catherine Neville, Vice President of Communications for Explore St. Louis. Learn about some of the new attractions in the city, as well as a wide variety of summer events.

On this episode of WTVP’s Backyard Journeys, ride the rails back to the heyday of railroading in Galesburg, have a farm-fresh, homegrown dining experience, learn the curious art of axe throwing, escape the ordinary as you match wits with friends and co-workers, then relax with a glass of locally produced wine, all within easy driving distance of your backyard.

Illinois becomes the first state to bar book bans, and a follow-up to an investigation into abuse and mismanagement at a state developmental facility.