Illinois News Now

Samanta Rux from OSF Healthcare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about skin safety in the summer sun and school physicals. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, common in sunlight and some artificial lights, poses significant health risks. Three types of UV rays—UVA, UVB, and UVC—each affect the body differently. UVA rays penetrate deeply, promoting premature skin aging and increasing cancer risk, while UVB rays are mainly responsible for sunburn and are strongly linked to most skin cancers. Although UVC rays are the most dangerous, our ozone layer shields us from them. Repeated exposure to UV radiation can cause not only skin cancer but also premature aging and eye issues such as cataracts. Experts recommend protective measures like sunscreen, sunglasses, and limiting sun exposure. For more information, visit OSF Healthcare at osfhealthcare.org. Parents are encouraged to take advantage of summer by planning for the next school year. Scheduling a well-child visit with your child's pediatrician can cover both routine check-ups and required school or sports physicals in one appointment. Health experts advise that appointment slots tend to book quickly during the summer months, so it's wise to secure a spot soon. Early planning helps ensure children meet all health requirements before classes resume. For those needing to make an appointment, visit osf.care/gynL50W171Q for more information and to access the scheduling portal. Taking steps now can help ease the back-to-school rush.

Illinois lawmakers have moved a step closer to legalizing physician-assisted end-of-life options. The House approved the measure late Thursday, with 63 votes in favor and 42 opposed. Eleven members did not cast a vote, and two voted present. Representative Travis Weaver of Edwards County spoke out strongly against the proposal before the final vote. Earlier attempts to pass similar bills stalled this year, but sponsors revived the measure by attaching its language to Senate Bill 1950. Now, the amended bill returns to the Senate. If senators agree, Illinois will become the twelfth state to authorize medical aid in dying.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Lyme Disease, West Nile Virus, gun locks, and sharps disposal. Health officials in Henry and Stark counties are urging residents to take extra precautions as the risk of tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease and mosquito-borne West Nile Virus rises with summer activity. The Health Department and First Choice Healthcare, with the support of partner organizations, now offer Lyme disease screenings at clinic locations in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon—most insurance accepted. Mosquito surveillance has detected the season's first positive West Nile pools locally, prompting advice to reduce standing water, use repellents, and check for ticks after spending time outdoors. Free gun safety locks and sharps disposal drop-offs are also available to protect families. For more information, visit www.henrystarkhealth.org or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Russ Hughes and Jennifer Russell brought energy to the Sav-A-Lot Studio on May 30th for The Boiler Shop segment on Wake Up Tri-Counties. Together, they recapped outstanding moments from local baseball, softball, and track teams. Good luck at State, Kewanee High School Boilermakers.

At the Illinois House of Representatives' annual Memorial Day tribute, lawmakers solemnly honored state soldiers who died in the past year. State Representative Dan Swanson spoke about the significance of Memorial Day, reflecting on the deep impact these losses have on Gold Star families. Swanson also criticized the Chicago Sky WNBA team for remaining in the locker room during the National Anthem, suggesting their actions failed to honor fallen service members. After facing backlash online, the Sky published a Memorial Day message, but further controversy erupted when fans pointed out the team appeared to confuse Memorial Day with Veterans Day in their tribute.

Illinois is gearing up for a historic celebration. The state House has adopted Senate Joint Resolution 12, led by Representative Dennis Tipsword, officially declaring 2026 as the Illinois Route 66 Centennial Year. The resolution encourages communities, historical societies, and state agencies to plan commemorative events and educational programs throughout the year. The intention is to honor and raise awareness about the rich cultural legacy of the "Mother Road," which played a significant role in both local and national history. Organizers hope the centennial will inspire renewed appreciation for Route 66 and boost tourism across Illinois.

Lyme Disease Awareness is getting extra attention in Illinois. State Representative Dan Swanson's yearly resolution has been adopted in the House, urging Congress to increase funding for Lyme disease research and a cure. With House Resolution 32, May 2025 will be officially recognized as Lyme Disease Awareness Month across the state. The resolution also encourages the Illinois State Board of Education to implement health education programs, targeting children who are at the greatest risk for tick-borne illnesses. Swanson emphasized the importance of early prevention as cases continue to rise in the region. Lawmakers hope these efforts can help protect families statewide.

Sara Billiet from the Kewanee Public Library joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about summer programs, online services, take-home craft projects, chalk art, and mini libraries in Kewanee Parks. The Kewanee Public Library is bustling with summer activities for all ages. Story Times kick off May 27th, offering interactive sessions for babies through preschoolers every Tuesday and Thursday at 11:15 AM, followed by bubbles, chalk art, and popsicles outside. For those who prefer gentle movement, Chair Yoga with Christy DeSmit is scheduled for Friday, May 30th, at 1 PM—no experience needed. Teens can create a Summer Vision Board on May 30th at 4:15 PM, and homeschoolers are invited to showcase their passions on May 29th. The library's summer reading program begins May 27th, providing prizes and engaging activities for everyone.

Music lovers, mark your calendars for Saturday, May 31, 2025, as the Doodle Folk Music Festival returns to Bishop Hill, Illinois. The village park will be alive with folk sounds from some of the state's most celebrated artists, including Barry Cloyd, Buck Halker, Chris Vallillo, and the Bucktown Americana Music Show. A special exhibit on Bishop Hill's own Jonas "Doodle" Danielson will be featured in the park gazebo. Admission is free, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Evening festivities continue at P.L. Johnson's with a dinner party, available by reservation. More information can be found at bishophillheritage.org. P.L. Johnson's is hosting a special dinner party this evening, open exclusively to guests with reservations from 4 to 8 PM. Highlights from the menu include hearty beef bourguignon, flavorful Swedish meatballs, cheese tortellini, and Oskar chicken. Dessert options are sure to tempt guests with choices like pavlova and rich chocolate lava cake. Those interested in securing a table are encouraged to call 309-927-3885 to reserve a spot. With a menu offering a variety of savory and sweet dishes, this event promises an indulgent experience for diners in the area tonight. The event kicks off at 10 AM with Barry Cloyd performing songs from his ten albums. At 11:30, Buck Halker brings American Coal Miner songs to the stage, covering more than seven decades of music history. After lunch, Chris Vallillo's afternoon set promises a blend of Midwest tales and masterful bottleneck slide guitar. At 3 PM, the Bucktown Americana Music Show closes out the festival, offering a lively mix of bluegrass, folk, and more. This free event is funded in part by the Illinois Arts Council, Illinois Humanities Council, Galesburg Community Foundation, and the Geneseo Foundation. For more details, you can call 309-927-3899 or email bhha@mymctc.net. Information about this festival is also posted on www.bishophillheritage.org and the Bishop Hill Heritage Association Facebook page.

State Senator Willie Preston has advanced new legislation aiming to address maternal health disparities among marginalized communities in Illinois. House Bill 2517, which has passed the Senate, seeks to expand implicit bias training for health care workers, with a focus on risk factors affecting Black women, who face a pregnancy-related mortality rate three times higher than white women. The training will cover current death statistics, identify specific risk factors for marginalized groups, and discuss effective medical care plans shown to reduce maternal mortality. The bill now moves forward for further consideration, marking a significant push for equity in maternal health care. “I am proud to lead the charge in implementing essential implicit bias training in health care surrounding maternal health risks associated with marginalized communities in particular Black communities,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related cause of deaths than white women. I will always advocate for every woman in Illinois to receive adequate, respectful, and dignified health care regardless of their background.” “This bill is the first step in taking collective action to ensure that we support the future of our daughters and their daughters,” said Preston. “Protecting maternal health care is about simple human rights – and we must protect the rights of all mothers.”

Illinois lawmakers are focusing on gun safety with new legislation led by State Senator Laura Ellman. At a Tuesday press conference, Ellman and advocates highlighted the dangers posed by unsecured firearms, particularly to children and teens. Citing research that links unlocked guns to suicides, accidental shootings, and increased crime, Ellman stressed the need for preventive action. Senate Bill 8 seeks to expand existing laws, currently limited to children under 14, to require safe storage of firearms when any minor could access them. Supporters argue that these changes could save lives and enhance community safety. The bill now moves to the House for consideration. “Unsecured firearms in homes pose serious risks, including unintentional shootings and suicides,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “Illinois has seen climbing numbers of firearm-related tragedies involving youth accessing unsecure guns, and our state has a clear need to prioritize preventive efforts.” “Illinois has an opportunity to take a significant step forward to protect residents and prevent more families from losing their child to unnecessary violence – a tragedy no parent should ever experience,” said Ellman. “This measure is meant to save lives and help communities feel safe.”

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss May designations and school physicals for your kids. Local schools may be out for summer, but it's time to think ahead about next year's school and sports physicals. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, together with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are now booking affordable physicals at their Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon locations—$40 cash, or bring your insurance information. Immunizations and screenings are also available. This month also spotlights important health themes: free blood pressure checks thanks to an American Heart Association grant, osteoporosis awareness, and the upcoming No Tobacco Day on May 31st. For appointments or information, visit henrystarkhealth.com or call your local clinic.

Excitement filled the Sav-A-Lot Studio as Seth Parlier and Jeremy Peart delivered the latest Boiler Shop segment on Wake Up Tri-Counties. The spotlight was on Alejandro "Alex" Duarte, honored as the Regional Media Athlete of the Year Scholarship recipient. Seth presented Alex with the scholarship during the senior assembly, marking a proud moment for the community. The segment also recapped recent victories for regional baseball, softball, and track teams. Jeremy and Seth shared energetic play-by-play recaps, emphasizing close finishes and highlighting athletes whose outstanding performances shaped an unforgettable season for Tri-Counties sports fans.

A 37-year-old Woodford County man faces 21 counts of possessing child pornography following an extensive investigation and a search of his home. After the state's attorney requested to deny pre-trial release, a judge, citing the Pretrial Fairness Act, ruled the defendant could not be detained but imposed strict conditions, including no internet access and no contact with minors. On the House floor in Springfield, Representative Dennis Tipsword criticized the system, questioning who would enforce these restrictions. Tipsword argued that blame lies with lawmakers themselves, not with police, attorneys, or judges, pointing to legislative responsibility for the outcomes. Today on the House floor in Springfield, State Representative Dennis Tipsword (R-Metamora) asked “Who is going to enforce these ridiculous conditions?”  He went on to say that it is not the police officers' fault, it's not the state's attorney's fault, and it's not the judge's fault.  He said, “Look around this chamber…it is our fault.”

Illinois continues to see a troubling trend: a significant population decline, especially among young adults and families. Since April 2020, the state's population under 18 has dropped by 6.1%, outpacing the national decline. Wealthy millennials and young professionals are also leaving, citing difficult public policies. State Representative Dan Swanson is proposing HB1501, a bill targeting one major barrier for young Illinoisans: access to farmland. The legislation would offer tax credits to those selling or renting agricultural assets to beginner farmers. Swanson says soaring land prices—now exceeding $20,000 an acre—make farming unattainable without family inheritance.

Tres Café in Kewanee is hosting a special fundraiser to benefit the Alzheimer's Association on June 7th from 4 to 8 PM. For just $10, attendees can enjoy a chicken and noodles dinner, with both dine-in and carry-out options available. The event also features a silent auction and a 50/50 drawing, promising excitement alongside the opportunity to help an important cause. Every dollar raised will go directly to support individuals living with dementia and provide resources for their caregivers. Organizers invite the community to participate, emphasizing that their support will make a meaningful difference in the lives of local families affected by Alzheimer's and related conditions. Call 309-761-8088 for carry-out. A new era in Alzheimer's detection is unfolding as the FDA has approved a groundbreaking blood test to help diagnose the disease. The Lumipulse G pTau217/ß-Amyloid 1-42 Plasma Ratio requires only a simple blood draw, offering a less invasive and more accessible alternative to current PET scans or spinal taps. Designed for adults 55 and older with signs of cognitive decline, the test detects amyloid plaques closely associated with Alzheimer's. In clinical studies, the test demonstrated strong accuracy in predicting plaque presence, though it's intended for use alongside other diagnostic evaluations rather than as a stand-alone screening tool. According to a study, four in five Americans said they would want to know if they had Alzheimer's before symptoms started, and 92% of Americans would want a medication to slow the progression of the disease. Message Amber Bowcott on Facebook for information on local resources on Alzheimer's and dementia. If the diagnosis is Alzheimer's or another dementia, you or your loved one are not alone. Join our free online community, ALZConnected, to share questions, experiences, and practical tips on message boards and in live chat rooms. For more information on Alzheimer's, visit https://www.alz.org/ or call 1-800-272-3900.

OSF HealthCare is implementing a new regional model to better serve patients across multiple local medical centers. Vice presidents will now be stationed at each facility to ensure a strong leadership presence and foster community relationships. The aim is to offer more medical services at centers like OSF Saint Luke while reserving specialized treatments for facilities such as OSF Saint Mary. This approach is designed to ease congestion at larger hospitals like OSF Saint Francis. Patients are encouraged to seek initial care at local centers, where staff will assess if transport is needed for advanced treatment elsewhere. Kory Tinkham oversees this initiative across multiple sites but is predominantly stationed in Kewanee. Kory Tinkham is the Vice President of Operations and Special Projects at OSF HealthCare Saint Luke Medical Center in Kewanee, OSF HealthCare St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg, and OSF HealthCare Holy Family Medical Center in Monmouth.

Katie Laleman joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about crop planting and Mental Health Month. The USDA Ag Statistics reports that statewide, as of May 11th, about 54% of corn has been planted and 51% of soybeans have been planted, which is further along than we were last year at this time. A golf outing fundraiser is scheduled for August 8, 2025, at Baker Park in Kewanee. Call the Henry County Farm Bureau office at 309-937-2411 to book your team. The money raised will support the Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom. If you are a Farm Bureau member, coming soon, you can purchase passes for the Henry County Fair at a discount. If you aren't a Farm Bureau member, you can join today by calling or stopping by the Henry County Farm Bureau office. There will be a kids' tractor pedal pull before the truck and tractor pull on Friday night. It's a blast for the kids! There will be prizes at the Farm Bureau booth during the Henry County Fair. For more information, visit the Farm Bureau Facebook page or website.  Rural communities across the region are joining forces to address the unique mental health challenges faced by farmers and their families. Community leaders emphasize that mental well-being is just as vital as physical health in the demanding world of agriculture. Local organizations are launching support groups and helplines, encouraging open conversations and peer support. The message is clear: no one should face these pressures alone. By breaking the stigma around mental health, rural communities aim to foster a stronger, more connected environment where reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, and this year's message is all about turning awareness into action. The Henry and Stark County Health Department, alongside First Choice Healthcare, is highlighting that one in five adults struggle with mental health every year—with many not seeking help. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Paige Humphrey encourages everyone to protect their mental health, noting that resources are readily available for support. Meanwhile, the departments are also promoting regular blood pressure checks during High Blood Pressure Awareness Month and reminding event organizers of new food safety regulations. More information can be found on the health department's website and social media.

Russ Hughes and Seth Parlier brought excitement to the Sav-A-Lot Studio during the latest Boiler Shop segment of Wake Up Tri-Counties. Their conversation spotlighted the recent victories and standout moments from the region's baseball, softball, and track teams. Russ and Seth shared play-by-play details of thrilling games and close finishes and highlighted several athletes whose performances made a significant impact. 

The Illinois Senate unanimously approved Senate Resolution 25, sponsored by Senator Neil Anderson (R-Andalusia), declaring May 2025 as Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) Awareness Month. The resolution was introduced following a member initiative request from Chris and Amy Avart of Mason City, whose young daughter, Esme, lives with PWS — a rare genetic disorder that causes constant hunger, developmental challenges, and requires 24/7 care. The Avarts shared their story earlier this year before the Senate Public Health Committee, urging lawmakers to bring greater attention to the condition. “Each day, Chris and Amy wake up with an unwavering commitment to caring for Esme,” said Senator Anderson. “Their courage and determination brought this issue to our attention, and through this resolution, we hope to raise more awareness and give the PWS community a stronger voice in their advocacy efforts.” PWS affects about 1 in 15,000 children and is caused by a defect on the 15th chromosome. The condition leads to significant neurological, metabolic, and behavioral challenges, including a constant, unrelenting sensation of hunger due to impaired communication between the brain and stomach. By declaring May as Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month, Senator Anderson hopes to promote public understanding of the condition and encourage future efforts to formally recognize PWS as a disability in Illinois.

Lorna Brown joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming 35th Anniversary Quilt Show in Bishop Hill this weekend. Quilters and art enthusiasts can now explore the 2025 Bishop Hill Quilt Show at the Bishop Hill Colony School in Bishop Hill.  The event celebrates the 35th anniversary of the Bishop Hill Quilt Show, which takes place May 16th through 18th. The main display, featuring a diverse array of quilts, will be at the Colony School. Admission to Colony School is $5, with doors open Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM, and Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM. On Friday, attendees will select the winners from five categories. Each year, the Prairie Queen Quilt Club members select a charity to support by providing homemade quilts and part of the proceeds from the quilt show. This year, the group is supporting GROW Ministries in Cambridge, which provides shelter for women who are homeless or abused. This special exhibit is free to the public, though donations are appreciated, and will remain open throughout the month during regular hours at the Steeple Building Museum, located at 103 North Bishop Hill Street. The quilt show was started 35 years ago by Betty Robertson and Marilyn Nelson, who both owned and operated quilt shops in Bishop Hill in the mid-1980s. The Bishop Art Council helped sponsor the event until 1990, when the Prairie Queen Quilt Club branched out on its own.

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss "Healthcare Week" at OSF Saint Luke Medical Center in Kewanee and digital options available to patients through OSF HealthCare.  OSF HealthCare is rolling out a week of appreciation and celebration for its dedicated staff. The festivities kick off with OSF Proud Day, encouraging everyone to sport their logo gear, alongside the DAISY and Sunflower Awards ceremony and a free cookout. Rock ‘n' Roll Day follows, inviting team members to get creative with musical outfits. Wednesday brings sports-themed attire, a Blessing of the Hands, popcorn treats, and an outdoor barbecue. Thursday gets colorful with pastel outfits and a potato bar lunch. The week wraps up Friday with a vacation-themed jeans day. Staff are invited to join in and share their festive moments on their Facebook page. OSF MyChart is making health care management more accessible and convenient. This secure online platform allows patients to view portions of their electronic medical record, manage appointments, and even access family health records at any time of day. Secure messaging with your care team and telemedicine options, like video visits, saves time previously spent on calls or in-person visits. Patients can also review medications, lab results, and summaries of hospital visits, all from one place. The MyChart app, available for Apple and Android devices, ensures your health information is right at your fingertips whenever you need it.

May is National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month, and First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon are spotlighting resources to support informed family planning. Women can access annual exams, Pap smears, contraceptive counseling, and pregnancy testing, with many services offered on a sliding fee scale or at no cost based on income. This aligns with National Women's Health Week, which kicks off on Mother's Day, urging women to prioritize preventive care and healthy habits. For appointments or more information, visit henrystarkhealth.com or call your local clinic. These initiatives empower women and promote lifelong health in the community.

House Republicans voiced concerns today following the passage of Senate Bill 42 out of the Judiciary–Criminal Committee. The proposal would eliminate the requirement for cannabis to be kept in odor-proof containers inside vehicles. Additionally, police would no longer be permitted to stop, search, or detain drivers and passengers over the age of 21 solely based on the smell of cannabis. Representative Dennis Tipsword, a veteran of 30 years in law enforcement, argued that this change would create new obstacles for police. The bill narrowly passed, 8-6, and will return to committee for amendments before advancing to the full House.

Russ Hughes and Jennifer Russell energized the Sav-A-Lot Studio on May 9th during the Boiler Shop segment of Wake Up Tri-Counties. Their lively discussion focused on recent triumphs from local baseball, softball, and track teams. Highlights included detailed accounts of impressive plays, close game results, and athletes whose outstanding performances turned heads. 

As temperatures rise and outdoor activities increase, it's important to remain vigilant about the risk of Lyme disease. The black-legged tick, commonly known as the deer tick, is behind most Lyme disease cases in Illinois, where infections have been steadily increasing. Symptoms can range from fever and joint pain to more severe neurological issues. Many cases remain unreported or misdiagnosed due to their similarity to other illnesses. Each spring, State Representative Dan Swanson champions a resolution to mark May as Lyme Disease Awareness Month, urging for increased federal funding and expanded prevention education, especially for children, Illinois' most at-risk group. The measure now moves to the full House for approval.

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie is raising alarms over Illinois's sanctuary state policies after Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Springfield today. McCombie claims these policies embolden criminals, put families at risk, and squander taxpayer funds. She criticized Governor Pritzker for focusing on future election ambitions instead of public safety, accusing him of reckless disregard for federal government directives. McCombie argues this approach leaves Illinois families to deal with the consequences. Her comments were delivered both on the House floor and before Wednesday's legislative session, as the debate over sanctuary policies continues to intensify at the Capitol.

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie is raising alarms over Illinois's sanctuary state policies after Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Springfield today. McCombie claims these policies embolden criminals, put families at risk, and squander taxpayer funds. She criticized Governor Pritzker for focusing on future election ambitions instead of public safety, accusing him of reckless disregard for federal government directives. McCombie argues this approach leaves Illinois families to deal with the consequences. Her comments were delivered both on the House floor and before Wednesday's legislative session, as the debate over sanctuary policies continues to intensify at the Capitol.

Illinois lawmakers are set to make it easier for seniors to renew their driver's licenses. State Senator Ram Villivalam, working with the Illinois Secretary of State and AARP, is championing legislation that would raise the age for mandatory, in-person license renewals from 75 to 79. Under the plan, a road test would only be required at 87 instead of 79, unless the senior has a commercial license. Immediate family members would also be allowed to report medical concerns affecting a driver's abilities. Supporters say this move recognizes seniors as some of the state's safest drivers and streamlines the process for them.

Farmers across Illinois may soon see relief from increasing wildlife-related crop damage. Legislation sponsored by Senator Neil Anderson, Senate Bill 710, cleared the State Senate unanimously and now moves to the House for review. The bill aims to help manage deer overpopulation, a persistent issue causing both agricultural losses and vehicle accidents. Key measures include automatic issuance of extra hunting permits for qualifying landowners, expanded free permits for those with at least 40 acres, and new guest permit options. The initiative was developed with input from local farm bureaus and state officials, underscoring the push for practical, bipartisan solutions. “Agriculture is Illinois' leading industry, and when experts in the field raise concerns, it's our responsibility as lawmakers to find real solutions,” said Senator Anderson. “This is a bipartisan issue, and I'm grateful my colleagues recognized the significant impact deer overpopulation has on both agriculture and public safety.” “This bill is a result of collaboration with local farm bureaus, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and the Illinois Farm Bureau,” Senator Anderson added. “It's a strong first step, and I'm committed to continuing our conversations further based on continued feedback from our agricultural community.” Anderson also stressed the public safety benefits of the legislation regarding deer-related vehicle accidents. Reducing deer populations near roadways is a crucial part of protecting drivers, especially in rural areas where these collisions are most frequent. “This bill supports our farmers, but it also looks out for everyday Illinoisans who drive our roads,” said Senator Anderson. “It's about protecting crops, ensuring road safety, and managing wildlife in a responsible, effective way.”

Galva Mayor Volkert joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to recap the Monday City Council meeting. Galva's City Council welcomed three members following April's election—John Wirth joins for Ward 2, while Doug Anderson and Jayme Hopping continue serving their wards. The American Legion begins poppy sales for Memorial Day and invites volunteers to place flags at Galva Cemetery on May 11, 2025, meeting at 7 AM. Citywide cleanup runs June 16–21, with pickup available on June 16th; contact Galva City Hall at 309-932-2555  for details, especially regarding tire disposal fees. Galva acquired 44 acres near the park district, and the park district is looking to expand recreational areas. The park district intends to use the five acres to add a parking area, soccer field, and ball diamond. The city is still installing the solar arrays, and when completed, residents will have the option to purchase electricity from the solar array. Mayor Volkert said the city will never ask you for financial information. If you have questions regarding individuals going door-to-door selling electricity, contact City Hall. The city has demolished some dilapidated buildings, and they have one building left. Anyone interested in opening a business in the final building or building on the land from demolished buildings should contact Galva City Hall for more information. The park district taxing boundaries need to match the city boundaries, so land around the ethanol plant has been annexed into the city, allowing for a larger tax base for the Galva Park District. Galva added a couple of trinkets and pictures to the Henry County time capsule, which will be opened far into the future.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about health designations as we begin the month of May. Child Mental Health Week is celebrated from May 5th to 11th, 2025, and Nurses Week is celebrated from May 6th to 12th, 2025. Health advocates in Henry and Stark counties are spotlighting children's mental health as part of a national awareness week from May 5th to 11th, underscoring that one in six youth nationwide faces mental illness annually. Limited resources leave many without critical care, so families are urged to seek help early. Alongside this, National Nurses Week runs from May 6th to 12th, honoring nurses' critical roles—from bedside support to community leadership. Meanwhile, Clean Air Month brings a warning about radon dangers, with local data revealing high levels in most Stark County homes. Affordable radon test kits are available for $15 at Health Department offices in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon.