The Carbondale Library and the Carbondale Branch of the NAACP will host a virtual discussion on the Illinois Criminal Justice Reform Bill Monday evening.

House Bill 3653 was signed last month and brings numerous changes to the justice system including eliminating cash bail, requiring body cameras and a ban on choke holds.

During March, southern Illinois residents can get a free at-home colon cancer screening test.

Franklin Hospital will be giving out tests on Friday March 12 from 9 am to noon. This will be done as a drive through, with no registration required. The screening test is done at home and returned to the hospital via a drop box.

The American Cancer Society recommends colon cancer screenings for all Americans beginning at age 50.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been especially challenging for Alzheimer's patients.

A report from the Alzheimer's Association shows a 16 percent increase in deaths among people with Alzheimer's and dementia during 2020. Researchers say preliminary data shows the pandemic has affected caregivers as well, due to the shutdown of adult day care centers and long-term care facilities prohibiting visitors.

Dan Klefstad and Leah Lerner report this morning's news for March 8th.

The extreme cold and snow of mid February resulted in many birds getting killed.  On this edition of WSIU InFocus, Ornithologist Mike Baltz talks about some things we can do to help birds survive in future cold blasts.

Brehm Preparatory  School in Carbondale is hosting a virtual workshop on March 11  to help caregivers of those with special needs,  plan for the future.  Jeremy Robbins, the head of the school, says the evening   will feature a certified financial planner bringing to light, assistance, that caregivers might not be aware of.