Illinois News Now

RaeAnn joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Health Center Week, School Ready Services, Breastfeeding Awareness Week, and Pool Safety. August also marks Breastfeeding Awareness Month, with local WIC and peer counselors offering support for new and expectant mothers. During National Health Center Week, First Choice is spotlighting primary care, behavioral health, immunizations, and walk-in services. Officials are also reminding families to practice pool safety through constant supervision, CPR readiness, and secure fencing. Henry and Stark County families are being urged to prepare now for the new school year. First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon are offering school and sports physicals for $50 cash, with insurance billing available for those who bring coverage information. Physicals are available for athletes, freshmen, sixth graders, kindergartners, and preschoolers. Parents should bring completed school forms to help reduce wait times. Clinics can also provide immunizations, TB checks, lead screenings, and lab testing for additional charges. To schedule, call Kewanee at 309-852-5272 or Toulon at 309-852-3115.

The Pastor and Andy talked about the Farm Heritage Festival coming up at East Jordan United Methodist Church

Brad discussed legislation he's presented that is now signed into law, plus community events he's attended throughout the area.

Ana talked about the Free Tutoring Program at Sauk Valley Community College, Project Vital.

Dr. Heather Wakefield joined Tom Katz for the Hammond-Henry "Here's to Your Health" addition to discuss her new role as a general surgeon. Dr. Wakefield brings 14 years of experience, most recently at CGH in Sterling, and will work alongside Dr. James Schreier. Her services include hernia, gallbladder, colon, breast, wound care, and thyroid procedures, including ultrasound-guided biopsies. She says the goal is to help patients receive more specialized care locally, without traveling to the Quad Cities. Beginning September 1st, Dr. Wakefield will hold clinic Mondays in Geneseo, operate Tuesdays and Thursdays, and host a Wednesday outreach clinic in Kewanee. A meet-and-greet is set for August 27th from 2 to 4 PM in the hospital dining room. The surgical team will continue to provide a full range of general surgery services, including colonoscopies, gastrointestinal procedures, hernia repair, gallbladder surgery, appendicitis treatment, thyroid surgery and biopsies, breast surgery and biopsies, port placements, and burn and wound care. Dr. Wakefield has a special interest in breast surgery, wound care, and thyroid procedures and plans to expand those services at Hammond-Henry Hospital. Prospective patients in the Geneseo area now have direct access to care through Dr. Wakefield's office at the Specialty Clinic inside Hammond-Henry Hospital at 309-944-1595. Patients may self-refer for an appointment, unless their insurance provider requires a referral from another physician. The office is located on the first floor of the hospital, making it easy to find for those coming in for specialty services. Clinic hours are Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. Anyone interested in scheduling a visit is encouraged to check their insurance requirements before making an appointment.

The Kewanee Schools Foundation is highlighting its ongoing support for students and teachers across the district. Executive Director Dr. Jeff Johnson says the foundation, founded in 1990, focuses on “enhancing education through giving.” This year, it helped administer 73 scholarships, with more than $150,000 awarded to graduating seniors. The foundation also funds the Care Closet, providing quick help for students needing clothing, shoes, eyeglasses, or hygiene items. Upcoming efforts include support for health science career training, teacher advancement grants, and the August 24th dedication of the David L. Sprague Tennis Center and Outdoor Fitness Court at 3 PM. Retired teacher Sue Blake painted the mural on the outdoor fitness center. The foundation is also supporting career-track programs, dual-credit tuition, and new professional advancement grants for teachers. The Kewanee Schools Foundation is preparing for its Athletic Hall of Fame banquet on September 19th at the high school, with about 150 people expected to attend. Executive Director Dr. Jeff Johnson says the event, held every other year, is part of the foundation's ongoing work to enhance education and reconnect with alumni. Johnson says class reunion tours have become a growing way to bring graduates back into the schools and rebuild relationships. Those interested in supporting the foundation can visit KewaneeSchoolsFoundation.org, follow their "Facebook" page, or contact the foundation office. Johnson says the mission is simple: build relationships that lead to continued growth.

New leadership is in place at the Kewanee Food Pantry, where Sarah Titlow has been named director. Titlow, a retired Kewanee High School special education teacher, says the pantry now serves more than 400 families each month, with demand rising due to higher food costs and changes to SNAP benefits. She says shelves are especially low near month's end, with needs including protein, fruits, vegetables, cereal, hygiene products, and easy-open foods for people without access to cooking. Donations can be made at kewaneefoodpantry.org, by mail to P.O. Box 492 in Kewanee, or during pantry hours. The Kewanee Food Pantry is located at 924 Rose Street and is open on Tuesdays from 10 AM to 2 PM and Thursdays from 3 to 6 PM. Kewanee Food Pantry continues to make a major impact for local families facing food insecurity. The nonprofit serves eligible Kewanee residents, assisting about 475 households each month and distributing roughly one million pounds of food every year. In 2025, the pantry handed out nearly 5,700 food boxes, helping approximately 19,500 people. Food and supplies come from wholesalers, distributors, area food banks, local stores, and commodity items from the State of Illinois. Public donations, along with support from area groups and businesses, also play a vital role. The pantry's “Backpacks for Kids” program remains another key effort, providing 3,760 backpacks to local children during the 2025 school year.

Janna talked about the 1st Sterling Street Fest success and the upcoming Hot Dog Day in Sterling.

 The Clinton Area Rod Club invites one and all to the 38th Annual “Fun in the Sun Car Show” Sunday, August 16, 2026 at: 251 Ball Park Drive, Clinton Iowa (Down by Riverfront Drive). Registration on the day of the show is $15 from 9am until noon. There are no classes – all vehicles are welcome to enter.

Scott discussed the previous city council meeting agenda and some projects being completed before summer runs out. 

Keri talked about another successful Let's Feed Our Children summer program, and a few events down the calendar coming up.

Sheriff Booker had no crimestoppers incidents to share or crime of the month. Conversation then went to community safety and some upcoming events.

RaeAnn joined Ken Peel on Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss National Minority Mental Health Awareness, reproductive health services, school physicals, and insurance navigators. Henry and Stark County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare Clinics are reminding residents about several summer health services. Family planning and reproductive care are available in Kewanee and Toulon, including exams, pregnancy testing, contraceptive options, and free condoms, with some patients qualifying for free or reduced-cost care. The clinics are also offering $50 cash school and sports physicals through summer 2026, along with immunizations and lead screenings. July's National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month is also being recognized, with counseling and therapy available for new patients. Health insurance navigators will visit several local sites this summer. Call 309-852-5272 for details.

Samantha Rux joined Ken Peel on Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss cyclosporiasis, blood drive, and National Night Out. OSF St. Luke Medical Center is urging residents to take precautions amid a Midwest spike in cyclosporiasis, a foodborne illness caused by a parasite often linked to contaminated produce. Samantha Rux says symptoms can include diarrhea, appetite loss, weight loss, cramping, bloating, and dehydration, with illness appearing anywhere from two days to two weeks after exposure. Health officials recommend washing produce, choosing whole-head lettuce over pre-chopped kits, discarding outer leaves, and cleaning hands, utensils, and prep surfaces. OSF will also take part in National Night Out at Northeast Park on August 4th and will host an Impact Life blood drive on August 6th. An ImpactLife blood drive is coming up Thursday, August 6th, at OSF HealthCare Saint Luke Medical Center, offering local donors a chance to help save lives with a simple appointment. The drive runs from 7 AM to 5 PM in the East/West Conference Room. Organizers say blood donations remain vital for hospitals and patients who rely on a steady supply for emergencies, surgeries, cancer treatments, and other medical needs. Donors are encouraged to schedule ahead and arrive prepared with identification, a good meal, and plenty of water. Appointments and details are available online or by calling 309-852-7810.

Kewanee National Night Out 2026 brings free family fun and a movie in the park The Kewanee Police Department will host National Night Out 2026 on Tuesday, August 4th, from 4:30-7:30 PM at Northeast Park. The free community event is designed to bring neighbors, families, and first responders together for an evening of fun and community engagement. The event also includes a Nintendo Switch 2 raffle, with $5 tickets available. The winning ticket will be drawn on August 5 at 10 AM. You can purchase tickets at www.zeffy.com or at the event on August 4th. Activities and attractions include: Free swimming at the Oasis Pool Free hot dogs, chips, water, and juice boxes (while supplies last) Cruise-in featuring classic and custom vehicles Emergency vehicles and public safety demonstrations Local displays and community organizations Pony rides for children by TriCo Equestrian Center LLC (4:30-6:30 PM), sponsored by the Kiwanis Club Movie in the Park featuring Disney's Lilo & Stitch beginning at 8 PM between the north and south pool baseball fields. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs Nintendo Switch 2 raffle with $5 tickets and the winner drawn August 5 at 10 AM The event is made possible through the support of numerous local sponsors and donors, including People's National Bank, State Bank of Toulon, Union Federal, Community State Bank, US Foods, Doghouse, Great Dane, Finish Well Ministry, First Baptist Church, Kiwanis Club, Happy Joe's, Pizza Hut, La Gondola, G&M Distributors, Moore Tire, Sullivan Foods, Ed Morse Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, D's Freeze/The Snack Shack, Kewanee Park District, and others. National Night Out is free and open to everyone, offering an opportunity for the community to meet local law enforcement, enjoy family-friendly activities, and strengthen neighborhood connections.

Cambridge is closing out summer with a busy community calendar. The final concert in the park is set for Thursday, July 30th, at 6:30 PM in College Square Park, featuring two bands and free music. Saturday brings the Rotary Car Show downtown, with registration from 8 to 10:30 AM, trophies, food, and a 50-50 raffle. The FFA drawdown follows at 5 PM, with a street dance at The Combine from 8 to 11 PM. Looking ahead, the Cambridge Historical Museum marks its second anniversary on August 8th, and iCash with Senator Anderson comes to the Village Office on August 25th.

Get no-cost, confidential guidance for starting, growing, and improving your business in the Sauk Valley, Illinois region. Whether you are developing an idea, preparing to launch, seeking funding, strengthening your marketing, or planning for growth, the Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College provides practical support at every stage.

State Senator Mike Halpin says Illinois' new budget includes added support for school lunch programs and a three-month food assistance bridge for families losing federal benefits. Speaking on Wake Up Tri-Counties, Halpin also defended new taxes on digital advertising and social media platforms, saying the revenue could help fund services including mental health care. He said higher education funding remains a top priority, especially for rural students and schools like Western Illinois University. Halpin also discussed efforts to recover back wages, ease substitute teacher shortages, limit eminent domain for CO₂ pipelines, and protect vulnerable adults under guardianship. State Senator Mike Halpin praised three newly signed Illinois laws that strengthen support for military service members and veterans. The legislation aims to boost Illinois National Guard recruitment, help student service members return to college after military leave, and expand access to innovative mental health treatments for veterans. Halpin highlighted Senate Bill 3926, which moves the Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Program Advisory Council to the Illinois Department of Public Health, where it will help expand access to emerging therapies, improve provider training, enhance patient safety, and promote public awareness. He also applauded Senate Bill 3737, requiring colleges and universities to promptly readmit students returning from military service, and Senate Bill 3818, which encourages Illinois National Guard recruitment through a peer referral incentive program. All three laws take effect January 1, 2027. His office can be reached at 309-558-3612. Mike Halpin serves as Illinois State Senator for the 36th District, representing most of Rock Island County and portions of Mercer, Henry, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties. An attorney and former State Representative, Halpin previously worked for Congressman Lane Evans, assisting constituents and helping veterans secure military honors. He later earned his law degree from the University of Illinois and became a partner at McCarthy, Callas, & Feeney, P.C., where he focuses on labor and municipal law. Halpin continues to advocate for veterans through his work with Bridging the Gap: Stand Down for Homeless Veterans, providing legal assistance to those in need. During his time in the Illinois House, he supported balanced budgets and sponsored legislation allowing schools to stock undesignated glucagon to help save children's lives.

Republican nominee for Illinois Secretary of State Diane Harris joined Wake Up Tri-Counties with Ken Peel to discuss her campaign priorities. Harris, a Joliet native, retired ComEd employee, small business owner, library trustee, substitute teacher, and Joliet Junior College trustee, says DMV access is a major concern. She criticized appointment-only systems and called for walk-in service, kiosks in libraries or grocery stores, and expanded mobile options. Harris also emphasized election integrity, saying voter registration tied to driver's licenses should include stronger cross-checks with government agencies. She also pledged cooperation with federal officials on CDL licensing records. Her campaign website is www.harrisforsos.com. Diane Harris is a conservative Republican candidate for Illinois Secretary of State who says her Midwestern upbringing instilled values of integrity, hard work, and public service. A retired ComEd employee with 32 years in the electric utility industry, Harris has also worked as an entrepreneur, insurance agent, notary signing agent, and substitute teacher. Harris has held several public service and Republican leadership roles, including Joliet Junior College Trustee, Joliet Public Library Trustee, Precinct Committeeman, and Secretary of the Joliet Township Republicans. She is also active in community, business, and faith-based organizations. If elected, Harris says she would modernize Secretary of State services by expanding DMV kiosks into underserved areas, improving online and in-person customer service, strengthening cybersecurity, and updating outdated technology. She also supports reducing vehicle registration fees for seniors and veterans, promoting election integrity, advocating for safer roads, and creating a more efficient, customer-focused Secretary of State's office. Harris is asking voters for their support in the November 3, 2026, election, pledging "faster, fairer" government for all Illinoisans.

Henry County Farm Bureau is wrapping up a busy summer and preparing for August events. Katie Laleman says the county fair brought strong member turnout, new sign-ups, and a successful pedal pull despite weather challenges. Membership is available for both farmers and associate members, with benefits ranging from legislative advocacy to travel and retail discounts. Coming up, the Farm Bureau Foundation's Golf Fun Day is set for Friday, August 14th, at Baker Park in Kewanee, supporting scholarships and Ag in the Classroom. The foundation awarded $61,000 in scholarships this year. Young Leader Discussion Meet activities are also planned for August 12th. Membership information and event details are available at henrycofarmbureau.org or through the Farm Bureau office in Cambridge.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the "12 Communities in 12 Months" outreach event, prevention efforts to avoid mosquito bites and West Nile Virus, upcoming insurance navigator events, food inspections, school physicals, and free blood pressure checks on kiosks in Kewanee and Toulon. Henry and Stark County health officials are taking services on the road this month. Their “12 Communities in 12 Months” outreach stop is set for Friday, July 24th, from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Stark County Junior Fair in Wyoming, with medication disposal, free blood pressure checks, health information, giveaways, and insurance navigator help. Residents are also urged to fight West Nile Virus by dumping standing water where mosquitoes breed. Free blood pressure kiosks are available weekdays at First Choice clinics in Kewanee and Toulon. Families can also schedule school and sports physicals this summer for $50 cash. Call 309-852-0197 for details.

OSF St. Luke Medical Center is bringing health care directly to rural communities through the OSF OnCall King Caravan. Samantha Rux says the mobile unit includes two exam rooms and can offer screenings such as blood pressure and cholesterol checks, with some visits including an onboard provider. The caravan serves Bureau, Henry, LaSalle, and Putnam counties, including a monthly stop at the Kewanee YMCA on the fourth Thursday from 11 AM to 1 PM. It may also return for Hog Days and the Stampede. Event organizers can request a mobile health unit through www.osfoncall.org.

Alejandro Alvarez joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming golf outing and preschool screenings. AbilitiesPlus is highlighting programs and upcoming events serving Henry County residents. Director of Development Alejandro Alvarez says the nonprofit, founded in 1959, supports people with disabilities through residential services, day programs, work services, public transportation, and its Preschool for All, which is open to children ages three to five with or without disabilities. AbilitiesPlus is also preparing for its 35th annual golf outing on Monday, August 3rd, at Midland Golf Club, with registration at 11 AM and a shotgun start at noon. Sponsors and teams can email golf@abilitiesplus.org or call 309-852-4626. Preschool screenings are set for July 28th and 29th.

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the dangers of e-bikes and electric scooters and provide safety tips for use. OSF St. Luke Medical Center is urging families to treat e-bikes and electric scooters as motor vehicles, not toys. Samantha Rux says emergency and trauma teams are seeing more child injuries linked to speed, lack of control, and limited understanding of traffic rules. Medical experts recommend helmets every ride, and some devices may call for face shields. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises riders be 16 or older for many of these devices. Doctors at OSF HealthCare Children's Hospital of Illinois in Peoria are warning families about a surge in severe e-bike and e-scooter injuries among children, especially ages 10 to 15. Pediatric trauma leaders say high-speed models can behave more like motorcycles than bicycles, raising the risk of broken bones, brain injuries, and spinal trauma. They point to the added battery weight as another danger, with crashes causing serious leg fractures and trapping riders. Physicians urge helmets, visibility, no headphones, and age-appropriate use. They're also warning families to charge batteries safely, using manufacturer-approved cords and stopping immediately if overheating, smoke, or odd smells occur. With school approaching, OSF HealthCare also reminds parents to review walking and biking safety and schedule school or sports physicals early through OSF MyChart or by calling 309-852-7700.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss food safety during a power outage, outreach events in Wyoming, mental health services, home food safety and licensing, and insurance navigators. During power outages, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed; refrigerated perishables may be unsafe after four hours, while a full unopened freezer can last up to two days. Residents are also urged to check food carefully once power returns. The department's “12 Communities, 12 Months” outreach visits the Stark County Junior Fair in Wyoming on July 24th, with medication disposal, blood pressure checks, health information, giveaways, and insurance navigator help. Mental health services are also accepting new patients through First Choice Healthcare in Kewanee. Call 309-852-0197 or visit henrystarkhealth.com.

The Dyer Davis Band joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about their group, the 2026 "Stay With Me" summer tour, and perform live from the Sav-A-Lot studio. The Dyer Davis Band is a blues-rock powerhouse known for electrifying live performances that blend modern blues with Southern rock and classic rock influences. Fronted by guitarist and vocalist Dyer Davis, the band delivers soaring guitar solos, gritty vocals, and a high-energy stage presence that has earned them a growing following across the United States. A live blues-rock show is headed to Cambridge, Illinois, as Dyer Davis and his band perform Thursday, July 16th, at Cà d'Zan House Concerts. The evening begins with a potluck and social hour at 6 PM, followed by the show at 7. A suggested donation of $20-$30 will be accepted, and the event is all-ages and family-friendly. In case of rain, the concert moves to Bishop Hill Creative Commons. Davis is known for powerful Southern blues-rock performances, with his debut album “Dog Bites Back” reaching number six on the Billboard Blues Charts. The group's sound combines traditional blues roots with contemporary rock, drawing inspiration from legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix, and The Allman Brothers Band while creating a style that is distinctly their own. Their performances feature a mix of original music and crowd-pleasing blues-rock favorites, making them a popular act at music festivals, theaters, and live music venues. Whether performing intimate club shows or festival stages, the Dyer Davis Band is known for its musicianship, dynamic improvisation, and passionate performances that appeal to both longtime blues fans and new audiences alike. Dyer Davis is on guitar and lead vocals, Warren Beck is on the keyboard, Will Weiner is on bass, and David Weatherspoon is on the drums. Find more details about the Cà d'Zan House Concerts on their "Facebook" page. Stay up-to-date with the Dyer Davis Band on their "Facebook" page and website.

Downtown Kewanee will be filled with art, music, shopping, and family fun during the Prairie Chicken Arts Festival on Friday and Saturday, July 17–18, 2026. Festival activities include chalk art, an art show, food vendors, a flea market, live entertainment, children's activities, museum tours, and local shopping. The celebration also features a Shop Small Business Crawl running July 9–18 and student artwork displayed in downtown storefronts July 13–20. Friday's events include a Sneak Peek Art Show from 5–7 PM at the Hog Capital Building and the Santa's Jingle & Mingle dance party from 7–9 PM in the Rotary Tent. Saturday begins with the Guns & Hoses Breakfast, followed by the Farmers Market, free family activities in Berrien Park, food vendors, live music, puppet shows, the Tiny Chicken Scavenger Hunt, and the announcement of festival winners at 4 PM. The festival is also hosting several special events, including a Chalk Art Competition with professional, amateur, and youth divisions; an Art Show & Competition featuring local artists; vendor opportunities for crafters and flea market sellers; volunteer service hour opportunities; and family-friendly activities throughout downtown. For schedules, registration information, and updates, follow the "Prairie Chicken Arts Festival" on Facebook.

Drew Herridge with the Marshall-Putnam County Fair Board joined Ken Peel on Wake Up Tri-Counties to give an update for the 2026 Marshall-Putnam Fair. The Marshall-Putnam County Fair is celebrating 105 years with a packed schedule in Henry, running July 15th through 19th, with pageant activities beginning July 12th. Drew Herridge, Director and Chairman of Events, says the fair remains free to enter with free parking every day. Highlights include Wednesday's kickoff dinner and wine tasting, Kids Fun Day on Thursday, the demolition derby on Friday, and America's PPL pull on Saturday. The biggest draw is Thursday night's concert featuring Scotty McCreery, with Taylor Bruninga and Cody Calkins opening. Fair details and tickets are available at marshallputnamfair.org and on Facebook. Scotty McCreery has been a household name for nearly half of his life, making history in 2011 as the first country artist and the youngest male artist of any genre to debut his first studio album, the Platinum-certified *Clear as Day*, at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard Top 200 Albums chart. The 31-year-old has sold over 4 million albums and achieved 6 No. 1 hits: the recent “Cab in a Solo,” the RIAA Platinum-certified “Damn Strait,” the RIAA Gold-certified “You Time,” the RIAA Gold-certified “In Between,” the RIAA Platinum-certified “This is It,” and the RIAA Triple Platinum-certified “Five More Minutes.” His latest album is *Rise & Fall*, and his current EP is *Scooter & Friends*, which features the smash hit “Bottle Rockets” with Hootie & The Blowfish.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss heat safety, firework safety, CPR classes, holiday hours, free radon test kits, and insurance navigators. Henry and Stark County health officials are highlighting several July services for residents. Free radon home test kits are available while supplies last at the Kewanee office, 110 North Burr Boulevard, with no holds. The departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics will also be at the Stark County Junior Fair in Wyoming on July 24th from 10 to 2, offering medication disposal, blood pressure checks, giveaways, and health information. Officials are also urging heat safety as temperatures climb above 90 degrees. Residents should stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity, and check on neighbors and pets. Details: henrystarkhealth.com or 309-852-0197.

The Kewanee Chess Association is opening the board to players of all ages and skill levels. Founder Obrey Blumenshine says the group began from his lifelong love of chess and a desire to create a free, social place for the community to play, learn, and connect. Obrey says the association is now affiliated with the Illinois Chess Association and U.S. Chess Federation, with plans for rated tournaments in Kewanee. Chess players in Kewanee have a standing invitation to gather each week for friendly competition and conversation. The Kewanee Chess Association is hosting free open playing sessions every Thursday from 1 to 2:30 PM at the Henry County Senior Center. Organizers say the sessions are open to all ages and all skill levels, from beginners learning the basics to experienced players looking for a challenge. The weekly meetups offer a chance to sharpen strategy, enjoy a classic game, and connect with others in the community. No registration is required—just bring your interest in chess and be ready to play. To join, visit the "Kewanee Chess Association" on Facebook or email kiwanichessassociation@outlook.com.

Mayor Volkert joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the carbon capture moratorium, playground equipment, a new police vehicle, and reelection. Galva Mayor Rich Volkert says the City of Galva is moving ahead on several major priorities following a packed council meeting. Council members approved an appropriation ordinance for the 2026-2027 fiscal year and unanimously backed Henry County's moratorium on carbon sequestration projects, citing safety questions and the need for more information. Volkert also addressed ambulance response concerns, police vehicle replacement, and more than 100 local ordinance violations. On growth, he pointed to business retention, a planned housing development east of the park district, new playground equipment, solar projects, and efforts to brand Galva as “Where Music Lives” and “Small Town, Big Sound.”

Jon Looney, Kevin Lucas, and Steve Franklin joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about "Stuff the Bus" on Friday, Rotary Free Swim, First Christian Church Food Pantry, and the joint Rotary and First Christian Church clothing and backpack giveaway. Kewanee Rotary, the Salvation Army, and First Christian Church are teaming up for another Community Day at the Pool on Saturday, July 25th. Backpack and school supply distribution begins at 11 AM, with the pool opening at noon. Organizers say last year's event handed out 429 backpacks, and they hope to reach 500 this year. Free children's clothing will also be available, along with information about food blessing boxes at First Christian Church. Donations are still welcome. Salvation Army's “Stuff the Bus” event is set for Friday, July 10th, from noon to 4 PM at Walmart.

The Minions band together to save the day after unleashing monsters upon an unsuspecting world.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss fireworks safety, food safety, Men's Health Month, the 12 in 12 Outreach Event in Stark County, school physicals, and insurance navigators. Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics will be closed Friday, July 3rd, for the Independence Day holiday, with limited home services continuing. RaeAnn Tucker says residents should keep safety in mind for the Fourth, from fireworks to cookouts. Officials urge adults to supervise fireworks, keep sparklers away from children, and never relight duds. Food safety reminders include keeping meat cold, avoiding cross-contamination, and discarding questionable leftovers. First Choice is also offering summer school and sports physicals in Kewanee and Toulon. The next “12 Communities, 12 Months” event is July 24th at the Stark County Junior Fair in Wyoming. More safety information is available at henrystarkhealth.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

OSF Saint Luke Medical Center is reminding Tri-Counties families to prepare for summer heat and the upcoming school year. Samantha Rux and family medicine provider Kate McGough joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss heat safety, school and sports physicals, and expanded lactation support. McGough has earned certification as an internationally board-certified lactation consultant, offering guidance for new and expectant mothers, including breastfeeding challenges and returning to work. OSF Healthcare is also encouraging parents to schedule physicals through OSF MyChart or by calling 309-852-7700. With extreme heat expected, residents are urged to limit afternoon outdoor activity, hydrate, check on vulnerable neighbors, and take breaks in air conditioning or shade. Find more information at https://www.osfhealthcare.org/ or on the "OSF Healthcare Saint Luke" Facebook page.

Connie Johnson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties for the May edition of "Cambridge Happenings" to talk about upcoming events in July 2026. Cambridge has a busy July ahead, with community events centered around College Square Park. The summer concert series continues Thursday evenings, with a special July 9th concert sponsored by Ridgewood Pharmacy in celebration of its fifth anniversary. Cambridge Car Cruisin' rolls in on July 16th from 5 to 7 PM, welcoming hot rods, cars, golf carts, trucks, and motorcycles. The Cambridge Masons blood drive is July 15 from 7 to 10:30 at the Community Youth Center; appointments can be made at 309-945-7499. The food pantry opens July 19th from 3 to 5 PM at 123 West Exchange Street. Street. A Gray Matters volleyball fundraiser follows July 25. Check the village website at https://www.cambridgeil.org/ and the "Village of Cambridge" Facebook page for full schedules and updates.

OSF HealthCare is offering hands-on STEAM learning opportunities for students interested in science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Samantha Rux of OSF Saint Luke Medical Center says families can explore take-home labs, including a squid dissection kit, virtual shark lessons, activity books, and augmented-reality tools featuring 3D models of organs such as the heart, brain, and lungs. One featured kit lets students dissect a squid while learning about ocean life. OSF also offers virtual labs, mobile learning tools, and visits from innovation team members for schools and events. Recent STEAM camps served students in several Illinois communities, with possible future programs in Kewanee. More information is available at steam.osfhealthcare.org.