Illinois News Now

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the February 12, 2026, Blood Drive at OSF Saint Luke Medical Center in Kewanee and the rising respiratory infectious rates in Illinois.  January marks National Blood Donor Month, and Samantha Rucks with OSF Healthcare is encouraging Tri-Counties residents to roll up their sleeves and give blood. The next community blood drive at St. Luke Medical Center is scheduled for February 12th from 7 AM to 5 PM. Regular donors are urged to make appointments, but walk-ins are also welcome. There's a constant need for all blood types, especially O-negative, and local donations primarily serve area patients. Donors can save up to three lives with a single donation and are treated to snacks and small gifts for their generosity. Details can be found at osfsaintluke.org or bloodcenter.org. As respiratory illnesses rise, hospitals remind visitors about potential restrictions and masking policies. If you're feeling unwell, utilize virtual urgent care or call ahead for appointments to ensure the community stays safe and healthy.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the increasing respiratory infection rates, Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, winter travel safety, sick appointments, and vaccines. Health matters are front and center in Henry and Stark counties this January. Local health officials emphasize the importance of cervical cancer prevention, urging regular screenings and HPV vaccinations for women and adolescents. As the flu season ramps up, residents are also encouraged to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, now available at First Choice Healthcare clinics in Kewanee and Toulon. As winter settles in, safety tips include using low-beam headlights, preparing emergency car kits, avoiding carbon monoxide, and preventing frostbite. Free health insurance enrollment assistance will be available at several local venues this month; details are available at henrystarkhealth.com.

Samantha Rux and Kaitlyn McGough from OSF Healthcare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about New Year's health and holiday light recycling. Kate McGough emphasized making small, sustainable steps when considering fitness and nutrition goals for the new year—such as brief daily walks or cutting sugary drinks—to boost both physical and mental health. She also discussed available clinic procedures, including joint injections, skin checks, and breastfeeding consultations. Samantha Rucks reminded listeners that this is the final week to recycle Christmas lights at the hospital lobby and noted the continuation of OSF's masking policy for staff and encouraged masks for visitors, especially during the uptick in respiratory illnesses. Kaitlyn McGough is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. McGough specializes in preventive care, chronic disease management, and primary care for individuals of all ages. Her arrival is anticipated to boost access to vital health services and support continuity of care throughout the community. McGough earned both her Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees from Southern Illinois University–Edwardsville. She is also preparing for the International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant exam. Appointments can be made at OSF Saint Luke Medical Center in Kewanee by calling 309-852-7700 or visiting OSF's website.

Amron Buch This year, the Kiwanis Goodfellows program made a major impact in Kewanee, serving 950 households and 2,667 people—about 21% of the Kewanee population—with Christmas food baskets. Over 2,600 individuals received essential groceries, with each basket containing staples like ham, eggs, and canned goods. The grocery bill for 2025 was over $38,317.36. The effort relied on support from community donors, local schools, the Kiwanis Key Club, and dozens of student and adult volunteers. Their hard work saw baskets quickly packed and delivered on schedule. Organizers emphasized that every donation helps and praised the district's young people for their commitment, ensuring no one in Kewanee went hungry during the holidays. Volunteers filled each basket with items from an impressive grocery list—859 boneless hams, over 13,500 canned goods, thousands of eggs, and heaps of fresh fruit, all thanks to countless donors and community partners. The operation involved students, school staff, and local businesses, highlighting the commitment and compassion of board members, educators, and volunteers who made it all possible. Read the full lists below. Goodfellows asks residents to continue supporting their mission to ensure no one goes hungry at Christmas, accepting donations year-round by mail or electronically. Organizers emphasized the power of teamwork and the difference these baskets make for local families. You can donate by mail to Kewanee Good Fellows, PO Box 5, Kewanee, Illinois, 61443; PayPal; or Venmo

Henry County Sheriff Josh Verscheure Talks First Term, Future Plans, and how the SAFE-T Act has affected the Henry County Jail

After a meet-and-greet on his campaign for Governor of Illinois, Republican candidate Sheriff James Mendrick answers questions about repealing the SAFE-T Act, crime, and the new assisted suicide bill. 

Galva Mayor Rich Volkert joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the Monday night council meeting. The latest city council meeting focused on several key updates for the community, including the purchase of $151,000 worth of new playground equipment that is set to be installed by late summer, offering a fresh space for families and daycares. Longtime employee Greg Thompson announced his retirement after 46 years; Jake McClintic will step into his role in the water department. Residents interested in city property can submit bids for newly available lots and a 2006 Ford F-250 truck. The council also handled routine business like renewing its Ameren gas franchise agreement, keeping municipal operations running smoothly.

As Illinois lawmakers prepare for a new session, House Republican Leader Tony McCombie is urging the state to change course, focusing on affordability, public safety, and job-driven infrastructure. McCombie says Illinois families are struggling with rising costs, making daily sacrifices while, in her view, state leaders prioritize spending over real solutions. She's calling for reforms to the SAFE-T Act, stronger victims' rights, and a rollback of energy policies she says are hiking utility bills. Infrastructure investment and job growth, especially outside Chicago, remain key concerns. McCombie warns that without shifts in priorities, Illinois risks further economic uncertainty.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about resolutions, reproductive health, HIV prevention, insurance navigators, flu and COVID-19 vaccines, and gun locks. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments are doubling down on their commitment to community wellness in 2026 with a range of initiatives. Residents can access free and confidential HIV prevention services, including testing, education, and medication support through the PrEP/HIV Prevention program at First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon. In a push for safety, free gun locks aimed at preventing firearm injuries are available weekdays at multiple locations. For those navigating health insurance, the Get Covered Illinois Navigator Program offers personalized assistance at upcoming local events. Visit henrystarkhealth.com or follow their social media for updates and resources.

RaeAnn Tuck joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about facility holiday closures, flu and Covid vaccines, DOT physicals, tips to avoid illness, and New Year's designated drivers. Offices and clinics operated by the Henry and Stark County Health Departments will be closed Thursday, January 1st, and Friday, January 2nd, for the New Year's holiday. Essential in-home care services will remain available, and help can be reached through each location's direct phone numbers or by visiting the health department's website and social media. Meanwhile, officials remind everyone to celebrate responsibly by arranging sober drivers, offering non-alcoholic beverages, and monitoring travel during peak late-night hours. For support with health insurance enrollment, residents are invited to Midwest Massage Therapy & Wellness Center on December 30th for personalized assistance from Get Covered Illinois Navigators.

Sara Billiet joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the end of 2025 at the Kewanee Public Library and events heading into January 2026. Holiday hours and exciting updates are ahead at the Kiwanee Public Library. The library will be closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day. Story time will take a short break over New Year's week, resuming January 6th. Watch for details on the community reading challenge launching through the Beanstack app, encouraging all ages to hit a goal of 300,000 minutes read next year. The newly named Page Turners Book Club will discuss "The Love of My Life" by Rosie Walsh on January 19th, with sessions at 2 PM and 6 PM. Activities, crafts, and take-home projects await children throughout winter. Watch the Kewanee Public Library Facebook page and website for updates.

Douglas Blank from Festive Fright Lights joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the first annual holiday light competition. Festive Fright Lights lit up the Kewanee area this season with their first-ever community holiday light competition, drawing a strong response from residents. Homeowners competed in categories such as Most Festive, Best Traditional, Most Creative, and the ever-popular People's Choice, which was judged through community votes and a dedicated panel. This year's big winner, William Minton, dazzled with over 100,000 lights and took home both Most Festive and the People's Choice titles. Organizers say the event aims to revive and grow the tradition of festive decorations town-wide, and plans are already in motion to expand the contest next year with prolonged registration and potential new categories. Holiday lights shone bright in our first-ever community competition, as neighbors wowed judges and attendees with dazzling displays. Austin Pettis and family claimed Most Creative for their show at 11850 East 2450 Street, while Chris Lamb's classic arrangement at 615 Midland Drive took home Best Traditional. William Ornelas and family's spectacular setup at 1918 East Prospect Street earned both People's Choice and Most Festive. Each winner received a $100 gift card to a local restaurant and professional-grade Christmas lights, all courtesy of Festive Fright Lights.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Christmas closure, radon test kits, the blood panel special, employee years of service recognition, the "Adopt-A-Family" with Central School, and travel safety tips for holiday travel. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments have announced that their offices and First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon will be closed December 24th through 26th in observance of Christmas. Essential in-home care services will still be available for those in need. For healthcare assistance or information, community members are encouraged to call their local clinics or visit henrystarkhealth.com. The departments are also urging residents to take precautions against respiratory illnesses as cases rise and reminding everyone that updated COVID-19 and flu vaccinations are available by walk-in or appointment at Kewanee and Toulon locations. As holiday travel surges, health officials in Henry and Stark counties urge drivers to prepare for smooth journeys. They recommend checking your vehicle's condition, planning routes to avoid congestion, and keeping roadside assistance contacts handy. Secure valuables and monitor children closely at rest stops. Meanwhile, the Environmental Health Division is spotlighting an invisible risk: radon gas. Home testing kits are available for $15, with high levels detected locally and health risks even for non-smokers. Finally, a special health screening at local clinics continues through January 1, 2026. Bring non-perishable food and $40 cash for a thyroid and cholesterol panel while supporting food pantries.

Connie Johnson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties for the monthly edition of "Cambridge Happening" to talk about closures for the Village Office for Christmas and New Year, the trash and recycling schedule, and the Cambridge Fire and Ambulance Department's fundraiser. Cambridge residents are reminded that the village office will be closed December 24th and 25th, as well as December 31st and January 1st, for the holiday season. Trash and recycling will operate on normal schedules through both holiday weeks. The Cambridge Fire and Ambulance Department is hosting Rock and Roll Bingo on Saturday, January 10th, at the fire station. For information or reservations, contact Amy at 309-314-6328. Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season.

Katie Laleman joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about awards from the Annual Illinois Farm Bureau Meeting, upcoming events, membership options, the Ireland trip, and Bushels for Hunger. The Henry County Farm Bureau is celebrating recent achievements and gearing up for busy months ahead. Fresh off a successful women's holiday wreath workshop, the Bureau announced state-level recognition for its young leaders, including third place in the “Harvest for All” campaign supporting local food pantries. Kate Huffman, honored with the state Ag Excellence Award, will soon compete nationally. The Bureau also earned the Liberty Bell Award for legislative advocacy. Upcoming events include a women's mental health program, “Strong Enough to Bend,” on January 29th, and a day-long farm succession planning seminar on February 20th. Membership benefits and a July group trip to Ireland are available.

Samantha Rux from OSF Healthcare joined the Wake Up Tri-Counties show today to share tips for a healthier holiday season. In addition to advice on navigating tempting holiday treats—like opting for smaller portions, eating a light snack before gatherings, and slowing down during meals—Rux highlighted an opportunity to give back. On Thursday, December 18th, OSF St. Luke will host a community blood drive from 7 AM to 5 PM, with Impact Life ensuring donations remain local. Appointments are available at bloodcenter.org, but walk-ins are welcome while space allows. OSF also offers holiday recipes and healthy eating resources on its website. Residents are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and make a life-changing impact at the upcoming community blood drive. Taking place in the East/West Conference Room on Thursday, December 18, from 7 AM to 5 PM, this event offers a chance to provide healing and hope by donating blood. Each contribution goes directly to those in need within the area, turning a few minutes of your time into renewed strength for others. To secure a time slot, participants can sign up online. With the season of giving upon us, this is an opportunity to truly make a difference. As holiday feasts fill tables through November, December, and January, health professionals are sounding a note of caution. Dr. Andrew Zasada of OSF HealthCare advises planning ahead to avoid overeating. A light snack before big meals and using smaller plates can help with portion control, while eating slowly gives your body time to signal when it's full. Moving away from the food after eating also reduces temptation. For those who occasionally overindulge, avoid alcohol or lying down right after to prevent heartburn. Anyone struggling with eating disorders is urged to seek help from trusted friends and a healthcare provider. One big meal won't ruin your health, but consistent support is vital. Andrew Zasada, MD, said “If you come to the meal hungry, you tend to try to make up for not having breakfast. You load your plate up, which is going to cause you to overeat,” Dr. Zasada says. “Instead, have a light snack an hour or two before you sit down to the meal. “Put the food in one room and sit down in another room to eat. That necessitates you going there rather than having food available for another fill.”

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss food safety, reproductive health services, sharps disposal locations, Medicare wellness visits, and insurance navigators. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments are highlighting vital resources for community health and safety. Medicare recipients can access a free Annual Wellness Visit at First Choice Healthcare clinics in Kewanee and Toulon, where patients receive personalized assessments and can address health concerns. In addition, six convenient sites now offer Residential Sharps Collection Kiosks for safe disposal of used needles, helping prevent accidental injury. As the holidays approach, officials remind residents that foodborne illnesses strike millions each year. They advise handwashing, separating raw and ready-to-eat foods, thorough cooking, and rapid refrigeration to keep celebrations safe and healthy.

William Ornelas has transformed his East Prospect yard into a dazzling holiday spectacle featuring over 100,000 lights, handmade displays, and a towering 30-foot inflatable. What began as a family tradition inspired by his mother has grown over a decade, now drawing crowds eager to snap pictures with the homemade cutouts and enjoy the festive treats handed out once a year during the park's lighting night—including cookies, popcorn, and candy canes. Ornelas repurposes old materials for many of his decorations and continues to expand each season. He encourages neighbors to join in on the decorating spirit, hoping to see even more lights brighten every holiday. What began as a few twinkling bulbs for his children has evolved into a neighborhood spectacle, with an archway boasting more than 32,000 lights and a towering 30-foot blow-up Clark Griswold. Hand-painted cutouts, a mega tree adorned with nearly 30,000 lights, and cherished family keepsakes fill the display. Clever organization and labeling mean it now takes just four to five weekends to set up. With careful organization and creative repurposing, William plans to keep shining for years to come.

Todd DeDecker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Lucia Nights, which is set for December 12th and 13th, offering evening festivities from 6 to 9 PM on Friday and 4 to 9 PM on Saturday. The annual Festival of Lights kicks off with the tree lighting in the park at 6 PM on Friday and features caroling, live Swedish music, and a glittering display of luminaries along the historic streets. Highlights include a soup supper fundraiser, performances at four separate venues, barn dancing, a soup supper fundraiser, and a selfie station inside Colony Church. Local shops and restaurants will offer special gifts and extended hours. The event is free and family-friendly, celebrating Bishop Hill's unique heritage. For full schedules and details, visit the Bishop Hill Heritage Association Facebook page, visit www.visitbishophill.com, or call 309-927-3899. You can find the schedule for both days listed below. Bishop Hill is set to celebrate its annual Lucia Nights Festival of Lights on December 12 and 13, 2025. The event promises a lively atmosphere with traditional Swedish customs, including caroling, live music at four venues, and the much-anticipated lighting of the park's Christmas tree. Visitors can enjoy special holiday gifts and extended hours at local restaurants and shops. Organizers highlight that all festivities are free, making it an inviting destination for families and those seeking a unique cultural experience. The festival showcases Bishop Hill's Swedish heritage and community spirit, marking a highlight on the town's winter calendar.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the closing of the Primary Care Medical Services in the Colona Clinic, vaccines as infections rise, WIC services remaining available, Toy Safety Month in December, and insurance navigators. Primary Care Medical Services at the Colona Clinic will be closing on December 5, 2025, though public health and WIC services will continue at the same site. Community members are assured a smooth transition as staff move to other First Choice Healthcare clinics in Kewanee and Toulon. Amid rising infections, the health department is offering updated COVID and flu vaccines on a walk-in basis. To schedule a children's vaccination, call the Kewanee clinic at 309-852-5272 or the Toulon clinic at 309-852-3115. December is National Safe Toys Month, and families are urged to inspect their homes for holiday hazards. Health insurance navigators will be available in Geneseo on December 9th and Colona on December 15th to assist with coverage questions. For more information, visit www.henrystarkhealth.com or connect on their social media platforms.

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about specialty services at OSF Saint Luke, including the addition of Dr. Matthew Heberer to the surgical team in Kewanee. OSF Healthcare is expanding specialty care at St. Luke's Medical Center, bringing top services closer to home for area residents. Dr. Matthew Heberer will now provide general surgery services locally, including colonoscopies and minimally invasive procedures, with more complex surgeries available in Galesburg using advanced technology like the DaVinci robot. Great Plains Orthopedics has also returned, offering comprehensive orthopedic care after a brief gap. Additional specialties such as pulmonary, podiatry, diabetes, obstetrics, and cardiovascular care are growing, ensuring a wide range of medical needs can be addressed locally. Expanded clinic hours run weekdays from 7 AM to 5 PM.

Kewanee Good Fellows President Amron Buchanan and Vice President Ken Knowles joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Good Fellows Christmas Baskets. The deadline to nominate someone for a food basket or get your name on the list for a basket is December 12, 2025. Call Kewanee High School at 309-853-3328, option 2, to get yourself or someone you know on the list for a Christmas food basket. You will need to provide a name, address, phone number, and number of people in the family when you call Kewanee High School. The baskets will be delivered on December 19th. The cutoff date allows them time to set up the boxes and fill them with food. If you miss the December 12th cutoff, call Kewanee High School as soon as possible to be added to the list. Ken said they "have never not had somebody get a basket," but the food options in the basket may be limited. They are planning for 860 baskets, but will ask Save-A-Lot to plan for 860 to 900 baskets. Amron and Ken said that Sav-A-Lot always works with them to make sure they get all the food they need. Thanks to organizations like Kiwanis and student clubs, Amron and Ken said they have enough volunteers but need donations to pay for the food. They thank the adults who drive the students around to deliver the baskets and all the students who help organize the food boxes and fill them. The food bill was $34,574 last year for 860 baskets. Baskets are small, medium, and large in size, depending on the number of people in the family. They don't have an anticipated total for the food bill this year but estimate around $34,000 for 860 baskets. 100% of your donation is spent in Kewanee and delivered to Kewanee and Neponset residents. The Gordon Vickrey Memorial Food Drive is in full swing and is underway now through December 17th. Students and families are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items at the Kewanee, Wethersfield, and Visitation School Districts. As an added incentive, the classroom in each school that collects the highest number of items will win a pizza party. The initiative, organized by the Key Club, aims to support local families through the Good Fellows Christmas Baskets for people in need during the holiday season. Community members can contribute by dropping off items at any district school building, helping to make a difference and honor Gordon Vickrey's legacy of giving. You can still donate through PayPal, Venmo, or mail a donation to Good Fellows Christmas Baskets Club, PO Box 5, Kewanee, IL 61443.

Mayor Gary Moore and City Clerk Kasey Mitchell joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the city manager form of government, the approval to recruit a new city manager, a temporary city manager, and the new electronic delivery of water bills. Kewanee's city council has begun the search for a new city manager, following recent discussions about the city's government structure. Officials say they're committed to maintaining the city manager system, which provides consistency and professional expertise, instead of switching to a strong mayor model. The recruiting firm MGT has been hired to lead the search, focusing on candidates with strong communication and social skills. In the meantime, City Clerk Casey continues to fill the role temporarily but has announced she isn't interested in the position full-time. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for emailed water bills to avoid recent postal delays. Discussion continues in Kewanee over the city's form of government, following the appointment of a temporary city manager. City leaders explain that the current city manager system was established by public referendum, and any reversal back to a strong mayor model would require another citywide vote. Supporters argue that a city manager brings stability, professional training, and consistency to local administration. Switching to a strong mayor system would mean increased costs, heightened political turnover, and practical barriers for potential mayoral candidates, particularly younger working residents. City officials emphasize that nonpartisan governance reduces political influence and serves the community more effectively. The city council has begun its official search for a new city manager, following a work session where members outlined key qualities they want in a candidate. The recruiting firm, MGT, will guide the process, starting with an in-depth call to clarify council expectations and any challenges facing the city. Council members emphasized the need for strong communication and social skills, pointing out that the city manager must collaborate with a broad range of partners—from residents to state agencies. Next steps include creating a detailed job description and launching the formal application and interview process in the coming weeks. James Webb has stepped down from his position as finance director, submitting his resignation to pursue other opportunities. For now, the city has appointed an interim replacement, with leadership expressing confidence in this individual's ability to manage the department. Officials are taking a wait-and-see approach to determine whether the current temporary arrangement could become permanent or if a broader recruitment effort will be necessary. The final decision may be influenced by the incoming city manager, who will likely play a significant role in selecting the next full-time finance director. For now, city operations continue smoothly under capable interim leadership. Residents are urged to keep an eye out for water bills, as recent postal delays have caused late deliveries. The water department is launching an initiative to email bills directly, ensuring same-day receipt. Paper copies remain available upon request. Those who sign up for emailed bills will be automatically entered into a drawing to win a one-time $100 credit on their water bill. The signup process is simple: a link to a Google form will be shared on the town's website and Facebook page

Katie Laleman joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about awards at the annual Illinois Farm Bureau meeting, Bushels for Hunger, an international trip for 2026, a "Cram A Ford" update, and a farm succession workshop in February. The Henry County Farm Bureau is gearing up for a series of significant events. Representatives attended the Illinois Farm Bureau annual meeting in Chicago, where county awards and policy changes will be spotlighted. With state officer elections and key policy decisions on the agenda, members are also looking forward to celebrating local achievements.  Young leaders from Henry County will compete in discussion meets, and Kate Huffman was recognized for her agricultural achievements. Harvest season is winding down, but farmers are reminded to drive safely, especially when transporting equipment and crops. The Bushels for Hunger campaign remains open for grain donations through December 31, supporting local food pantries. Members interested in an Ireland trip can attend an informational meeting on November 20th. A farm succession planning workshop takes place on February 20th at Lavender Crest Winery—advance registration required.

Todd DeDecker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the schedule changes on the last weekend of Julmarknad and Lucia Nights next weekend. Bishop Hill is embracing the holiday spirit with two weekends of festive celebration. The Christmas Market continues December 6th and 7th, featuring a cookie walk, chocolate walk, and ornament making at the Bjorken Hotel. Lucia Nights is set for December 12th and 13th, offering evening festivities from 6 to 9 PM, including traditional Swedish music, caroling, and luminaries lining the streets. Enjoy performances across four venues, a soup supper fundraiser, and unique activities like barn dancing and a selfie station at Colony Church. For full schedules and details, visit BishopHill.com or call 309-927-3899. Christmas kicks off in Bishop Hill! Bishop Hill is set to celebrate its annual Lucia Nights Festival of Lights on December 12 and 13, 2025. The event promises a lively atmosphere with traditional Swedish customs, including caroling, live music, and the much-anticipated lighting of the park's Christmas tree. Visitors can enjoy special holiday gifts and extended hours at local restaurants and shops. Organizers highlight that all festivities are free, making it an inviting destination for families and those seeking a unique cultural experience. The festival showcases Bishop Hill's Swedish heritage and community spirit, marking a highlight on the town's winter calendar.

Linda Blair joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the start of the 2026 Kewanee Area United Way (KAUW) fundraising campaign. KAUW's annual fundraising campaign is now underway across the Tri-Counties, following an October kickoff event hosted by the Kewanee Kiwanis and Rotary clubs. Executive Director Linda Blair highlights a challenging year, with donations down as much as 40%.  Many contributions may be tax-deductible, and ongoing workplace campaigns—where employees pledge a small amount from each paycheck—are a key source of funding. United Way tracks how funds are used, offering donors transparency and accountability. Current projects include the successful Shoes for Kids initiative, which partners with school systems to provide footwear to children in need. The organization also supports food assistance and utility aid through grants to groups like the Salvation Army. Community involvement remains crucial as the demand for assistance continues to rise. Even so, recent support from businesses like Peoples National Bank and Great Dane—recent donations include $8,300 and almost $4,000, respectively—has helped the organization continue funding for local agencies, including food pantries, youth programs, and the Shoes for Kids initiative. KAUW helped 15 agencies in 2025, providing over $80,000 in contributions. The amount of money and number of agencies they can help are dependent on donations from businesses and individuals. Community fundraisers such as Jail and Bail, trivia contests, and Rock and Roll Bingo are all planned to boost support in 2026. Donations can be made online, by mail at KAUW, PO Box 426, Kewanee, IL, 61443, or in person at 200 East Street South. Follow KAUW on Facebook and stay up-to-date with information.

Heavy snowfall hit the Tri-Counties region recently, bringing over a foot of wet, heavy snow and creating hazardous conditions. Samantha Rux from OSF Healthcare emphasized the importance of winter safety, especially when shoveling. Residents are advised to take small sections at a time, avoid overexertion, and listen to their bodies to prevent injury. Checking on neighbors, particularly the elderly or those with disabilities, is encouraged. OSF Healthcare continues to provide care despite the storms, with teams working around the clock. Residents are reminded to plan, stay safe, and watch for updates as more winter weather is expected. Visit OSF HealthCare's website for snow shoveling safety tips.

Samantha Rux, Tami Harker, and Barb Spencer from OSF Saint Luke Medical Center joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about diabetes. Diabetes Awareness Month is underway, and the OSF Healthcare diabetes care team visited the studio to raise awareness. Advanced Practice Nurse Tami Harker and diabetes nurse Barb Spencer, from the diabetes care team, shared vital information about both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, highlighting warning signs such as excessive thirst and frequent urination. Nearly 38 million Americans live with diabetes, and many remain undiagnosed. Lifestyle adjustments—like weight loss and increased activity—can help prevent or delay the onset, especially for those with a family history. The team also promoted newer technologies, such as continuous glucose monitors that track blood sugar in real time, empowering individuals to make healthier choices every day. For more information or to make an appointment, visit OSF Saint Luke's website or use the OSF MyChart app.

Galva Mayor Rich Volkert joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the tax levy, comprehensive plan, snow removal, winter street parking, and the Ol' Fashioned Christmas event. Mayor Rich Volkert recapped Monday's city council meeting, highlighting the approval of a lowered tax levy ordinance—though changes in property assessments could still impact homeowners' bills. The council also adopted an updated comprehensive plan, paving the way for future grants and downtown revitalization. Mayor Volkert addressed snow removal challenges, urging residents to move their cars for effective plowing as winter weather persists. He mentioned a water main leak that the city is working to fix. The rescheduled old-fashioned Christmas celebration will proceed this weekend, featuring rides, lighting, and local business participation. Volunteers have been setting up the decorations despite wintry conditions. The minimum bid for the old Lord Chevrolet building is $24,000.