Illinois News Now

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.

Dustin Williams has announced plans to run for mayor of Galva during an interview on Wake Up Tri-Counties with Ken Peel and Jennifer Russell. Speaking with Ken Peel on Wake Up Tri-Counties, Williams said his involvement in local CO₂ project discussions helped shape his decision, emphasizing the need for residents to stay informed and heard. Williams says his campaign will focus on transparency, community engagement, and preserving Galva's small-town character. Williams plans to connect with residents through Facebook, at his automotive shop in Galva (Williams Collision and Restoration, 215 SE 8th Avenue), and eventually through a dedicated campaign page. He pointed to his involvement in local discussions surrounding the CO₂ project as part of what motivated him to seek office. Williams says residents deserve clear information, including data on air quality and the potential impact of carbon sequestration tied to ethanol production. He encourages residents to contact him through "Facebook" or stop by his shop in Galva to share concerns and ideas.

Sheldon Miller joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the 50th anniversary of Hooppole Fun Day. Hooppole Fun Day is marking a major milestone in 2026, celebrating 50 years alongside America 250. The big day is set for Saturday, June 27th, beginning with pie judging at 9:15 at the fire station, followed by the parade at 10. The schedule is packed with family favorites, including the kids' pedal pull, penny scramble, frog races, mud volleyball, bingo, Rolle Bolle, bags, carnival games, and the Lil Mr. and Miss Hooppole presentation at 5:30. The Dani Lynn Howe Band plays from 7 to 11, with America 250-themed fireworks at dusk. Details are on Facebook at "Hooppole Fun Day."

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss West Nile Virus, Men's Health Week and Month, the WIC Program, radon test kits, and the Henry County Fair. Henry and Stark County health officials are highlighting several summer health reminders. During National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, residents are urged to reduce standing water, use EPA-approved repellents, and report stagnant water to help prevent West Nile virus. Free rapid HIV testing will be offered on June 26th at First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon. June is also National Safety Month, and radon test kits are available for $15, with elevated levels found in many local homes. Families can also apply for WIC assistance in person or online. For details, call 309-852-0197 or visit henrystarkhealth.com.

Regional Media Film Critic Sean Kernan reviews Toy Story 5. With their latest kid, Bonnie, receiving her first tech toy, Lilypad, voiced by Greta Lee, our favorite toys find themselves once again on the verge of being shelved. But plucky Jessie (Joan Cusack) won't go down without a fight. With her trusty horse, she follows Bonnie to a sleepover but things go awry and Jessie ends up at a familiar looking farm where she's forced to rely on an outdated tech product to help her get back to Bonnie and, perhaps, help Bonnie make a new friend.

Juneteenth takes center stage this week on Wake Up Tri-Counties, as Ken Peel welcomed Etta LaFlora and Lovondi Jordan to discuss the holiday's history and meaning. Juneteenth commemorates June 19th, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing freedom for enslaved people—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. The guests emphasized that Juneteenth is more than a day off; it is a time to remember, reflect, and teach younger generations about freedom, resilience, faith, and hope. They also highlighted Dr. Opal Lee's efforts to make Juneteenth a national holiday, signed into law in 2021. Juneteenth marks a pivotal moment in American history — the day freedom finally reached enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, on June 19th, 1865. That announcement came more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. The first celebrations began in Texas the following year, with prayer, music, family gatherings, and community events. Texas officially recognized Juneteenth in 1980, and in 2021 it became a federal holiday. Today, Juneteenth is both a celebration of African American freedom, culture, and achievement—and a reminder of the continuing pursuit of equality and justice across the nation.

June is National Men's Health Month, and OSF St. Luke's is urging men across the Tri-Counties to stop putting off routine care. Samantha Rucks told Wake Up Tri-Counties that many men wait until pain or symptoms become serious before seeing a provider, which can make treatment harder. She says annual physicals, lab work, and age-appropriate screenings for prostate cancer, colon cancer, diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol can catch problems early. Rucks says men should build a relationship with a primary care provider before health issues arise. To connect with OSF in Kewanee, call 309-852-7700.

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to remind listeners that vacation time is more than a luxury — it can support better mental and physical health. Samantha Rux says time away, whether it's a trip, a staycation, or a long weekend, can improve mood, sleep, and productivity, with benefits lasting up to six weeks. She emphasized the importance of truly disconnecting from work by using out-of-office messages and relying on coworkers for support. Health experts suggest taking two vacations a year when possible. More health resources are available through the OSF Newsroom and at osfhealthcare.org.

Raeann Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Juneteenth Holiday Closure, IDOT Exams, Sun Safety, and School Physicals. Offices and First Choice Healthcare Clinics will be closed Friday, June 19th, for Juneteenth, with limited home services still available. The departments will also host a “12 Communities, 12 Months” outreach event at the Henry County Fair in Cambridge on June 17th and 18th from 2 to 4 PM, offering medication disposal, blood pressure checks, health information, and insurance navigator help. First Choice is also offering DOT physicals in Kewanee and Toulon by appointment. Health officials are urging summer sun safety, especially for children.

Henry County Farm Bureau is gearing up for a busy summer, starting with next week's Henry County Fair. Manager Katie Lalleman says Farm Bureau will have a booth in the Merchants Building, offering members discounted tickets for the pork producers' stand and sharing information with non-member agriculture education, landowner rights, legislative priorities, and member discounts. Upcoming events include a Market Outlook seminar on June 30th at Lavender Crest, Safety Starts With You on July 8th in Geneseo, and the Farm Bureau Foundation Golf Fun Day on August 14th at Baker Park in Kewanee. Proceeds support Ag in the Classroom programming.

The 167th Henry County Fair returns June 16th through the 21st in Cambridge, bringing a full week of livestock shows, fair food, carnival rides, and grandstand events. Jennifer West says this year's highlights include a new school bus demolition derby on Saturday night, two truck and tractor pulls, a rodeo, and free family activities on Wednesday. Kids can enjoy pedal pulls, sack races, chicken scrambles, and pig scrambles, with an adult pig scramble also planned. Admission is $5 per day, while an $80 ultimate pass covers the full week and grandstand access. Fairgoers can also enjoy livestock shows, art hall exhibits, carnival rides, and favorites like Malone's taffy and pork chop sandwiches. Fair organizers are also seeking volunteers, with details available through the Henry County Fair website and Facebook page. Stay tuned to the Henry County Fair website for updates to the daily schedule.

Todd DeDecker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the Doodle Folk Music Festival, the 17th Annual Honor Flight Benefit, and upcoming events in Bishop Hill. Bishop Hill is tuning up for a full day of community celebration today as the Doodle Folk Music Festival marks America's 250th birthday with free concerts in the historic village park. Barry Cloyd opens at 10, followed by the Taproot Wranglers, the Bucktown Americana Music Show, and Lee Murdock at 3. Meanwhile, The Filling Station Restaurant hosts its 17th annual Honor Flight Benefit from 7 to 2, supporting Honor Flight of the Quad Cities. Guests can enjoy pay-what-you-can breakfast and lunch, a brown bag raffle, live auction, and music—all helping regional veterans. The Doodle Folk Music Festival returns with support from the Illinois Arts Council, the Minneapolis Foundation, and Regional Media as its media sponsor. Music lovers can enjoy a diverse lineup and regional acts. For more festival details, reach out by phone at 309-927-3899 or email bhha@mymctc.net. Event schedules and updates are available online at www.bishophillheritage.org and on the Bishop Hill Heritage Association's “Facebook page.” This community celebration promises an unforgettable experience for fans of folk music and local culture alike.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the Better Birth Outcomes Program, PrEP and HIV Prevention Programs, Family Health and Fitness Day, National Community Health Improvement Week, Men's Health Month, and Insurance Navigators at the Henry County Fair. Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare are spotlighting several June health programs. Expecting parents and families with babies under six months can enroll in the free Better Birth Outcomes program for nurse-guided pregnancy and newborn support. June also brings Pride Month HIV prevention services, including confidential testing, counseling, and access to PrEP or PEP. Men's Health Month lab discounts include thyroid, prostate, and colon cancer screenings. Insurance navigators will also be at the Henry County Fairgrounds in Cambridge June 17th through 19th. For clinic appointments, call Kewanee at 309-852-5272 or Toulon at 309-852-3115.

Mayor Gary Moore and City Manager Kasey Mitchell joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the city-wide cleanup on June 6th, upcoming road construction, the sidewalk reimbursement program, and Hog Days. Kewanee residents are encouraged to take part in city-wide Cleanup Day, which will take place on Saturday, June 6th, from 7 AM until noon. Participants should ensure all items are bagged or boxed for quick unloading, helping keep the area clean and efficient. Proof of an address within Kewanee is required. Volunteers are needed to assist with unloading vehicles and placing materials into large dumpsters. Extra hands are necessary to help the process move smoothly for everyone involved. Anyone interested in volunteering should show up Saturday morning. Join the effort to keep the city looking its best and make a difference in your community. If the event is postponed due to rain, the backup date is next Saturday. Restrictions include no electronics, toner, or liquids such as paint. The city is also promoting involvement in upcoming events, including Hog Days, and highlighting summer construction projects and a sidewalk reimbursement program.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss food safety, monthly CPR classes, free gun locks, the monthly outreach event at the Henry County Fair, ticks, safe sharps disposal, and insurance navigators. June is National Safety Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare, are offering free gun locks at clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon to help reduce gun-related injuries and deaths. Residents are encouraged to pick up locks weekdays between 8 AM and 4 PM. Firearm suicide claims 64 American lives daily, and keeping both guns and ammunition locked can sharply reduce these risks. Free gun locks are also available via the Veterans Crisis Line—call 988 and press 1, chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net, or text 838255. For more safety news, the departments are hosting free blood pressure checks, sharps disposal, and insurance help at the Henry County Fair on June 17th and 18th. The departments also offer Lyme disease screening and tick testing and are expanding access to safe disposal kiosks for used medical sharps at six locations. Monthly CPR classes and food safety guidance for local vendors round out the health focus. More details at henrystarkhealth.com.

Sara Billiet joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the Summer reading program, getting a library card, magician Zach Purcell, and author Becca Kinzer. Summer is officially underway at the Kewanee Public Library, where the annual summer reading program has just kicked off and welcomes participants of all ages. Youth Services Manager Sarah Billiott highlights the annual program, which runs through July 18th and welcomes new participants anytime before it ends. Both children and adults can track their reading in the Beanstack app or with traditional paper logs and earn prizes just for reading. Signing up for the summer reading program is simple—just bring a photo ID and proof of address to the service desk. The library card is free, and district boundaries stretch into Stark County and beyond Kewanee. Special events this summer include magician Zach Purcell on June 8th at 10:30 AM and author Becca Kinzer, appearing June 11th from 2 to 4 PM. All events and participation are free. Find details at kewaneelibrary.org, on "Facebook," or visit the library in person.

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the patient transportation program. OSF HealthCare St. Luke's continues to address barriers to local healthcare through its patient transportation program. Launched after a 2019 community health assessment revealed transportation as a major barrier, the hospital's van service shuttles patients to and from medical appointments free of charge. Funded entirely through donations and events like today's annual golf outing at Midland Golf Club, the program has improved outcomes by ensuring patients can attend regular appointments, which is especially vital for those with injuries or no other means of transportation. For more details, patients can contact their healthcare provider or check with the scheduling team when scheduling an appointment. The hospital also hosts bi-monthly local blood drives. The next blood drive is on June 4, 2026, from 7 AM to 5 PM—find details at bloodcenter.org. To find more blood drives in the area, visit bloodcenter.org and search zip code 61443.

On Wake Up Tri-Counties, Deputy Assistant Police Chief Mike Minks joined Ken Peel and Jennifer Russell to share insights on the DAART program, which supports individuals battling addiction in Kewanee, Golf Outing, and National Night Out. The DAART program, revived through nearly $100,000 in grant funding, provides transportation for those seeking rehab and now includes neurofeedback therapy via licensed therapists. Kewanee's DAART program is making a significant impact in the community, helping residents struggling with addiction access vital resources and support. Deputy Chief Mike Minx, who's been with the Kewanee Police Department since 2007, shared how federal and local grant funding has revived the initiative, providing transportation to rehab and launching a neurofeedback program in partnership with licensed therapist Johanna Hager. Since January, more than a dozen participants have continued therapy on their own, thanks to successful early intervention. The program's collaborative approach, uniting police, mental health agencies, and probation, is strengthening Kewanee by breaking barriers and building supportive networks for recovery. For more information or to donate, residents can contact Deputy Chief Mike Minx at the Kewanee Police Department at 309-853-1911. Golf enthusiasts and beginners alike are invited to test their skills at the upcoming Kewanee Police Department FOP Lodge 233 charity golf outing. Taking place July 11th with a 10 a.m. shotgun start at Midland Golf Course, this annual event raises funds for local community causes, with previous donations supporting Amber Patch's Toy Drive and Brave Heart. Entry is $80 per person, with teams of four at $320, and single players will be paired up. The outing includes dinner, raffles, and a 50-50 drawing. For registration or sponsorships, contact Eric Peed at epeed@cityofkewanee.net. National Night Out returns to Northeast Park on Tuesday, August 4th, bringing the community together for an evening of connection and fun. Expect open swim at the pool, local vendors, and a vehicle showcase featuring fire trucks and tow trucks. The popular car show drive-in welcomes anyone with a classic or unique vehicle eager to inspire the next generation of enthusiasts. Enjoy free hot dogs and help support the event by donating juice boxes—Operation Juice Box is in full swing, aiming to provide drinks for local kids. To get involved or donate, contact Deputy Chief Mike Minks at mminx@cityofkeewaunee.net or 309-853-1911.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Blood Pressure Awareness Month, Osteoporosis Awareness Month, No Tobacco Day, school and sports physicals, and insurance navigators. With summer underway, the Henry and Stark County Health Departments remind families that school and sports physicals are available all season at Kewanee and Toulon clinics. Students entering kindergarten, preschool, sixth grade, freshman year, and all junior or senior high athletes can schedule exams, with insurance accepted and physicals priced at $50. Parents should bring completed forms for a fast visit. May marks National Osteoporosis Month, highlighting the need for bone health checks. Free blood pressure kiosks are available at clinics in Kewanee, Toulon, and Colona for easy monitoring. 

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Mental Health Awareness Month, the 12 Communities in 12 Months Community Outreach Event in Galva, Blood Pressure Awareness Month, and Insurance Navigators. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics will be closed Monday, May 25, for Memorial Day, with limited in-home services available. During May, as part of Mental Health Awareness Month, residents are encouraged to “Show Your Green” in support of local mental health initiatives, with proceeds from t-shirt sales aiding behavioral health patients. Free blood pressure checks, health info, and giveaways will be offered at the “12 Communities in 12 Months” outreach event on May 22 at Special Kneads Bakery in Galva. Insurance Navigators are also hosting free enrollment events throughout the month. For updates, visit henrystarkhealth.com.