Illinois News Now

Country music artist Angela Meyer joined Wake Up Tri-Countries to introduce her powerful new single, “Blood Disease,” ahead of her much-anticipated live performance at the Levitt Amp Galva Music Series on June 29, 2025. Meyer's forthcoming album, also titled “Blood Disease," releases in September and will be available on all major platforms like iTunes and Spotify. Crowned the Midwest Country Music Organization's “New Artist of the Year” in 2023, she continues to move listeners with her heartfelt songwriting and live shows. For more, catch her “Muddy Water Radio” program every Saturday on WQUD 107.7 FM. Find more about Angela Meyer on her website. Angela Meyer continues to capture hearts in the Quad Cities and beyond with her heartfelt songwriting and powerful live performances. Raised in a family steeped in country music, Meyer's artistic journey began when her grandparents gave her a guitar at the age of ten. By fifteen, she was writing her songs, quickly making a name for herself on stage. With more than a decade of professional experience, Meyer's sets blend acoustic covers and her country-western originals. She's performed from New Mexico to New York, including at the prestigious National Finals Rodeo events. Discover her music on YouTube at www.youtube.com/angelacmeyer.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about fireworks safety, food safety, sun safety, men's health, HIV testing, and school physicals. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments will close all offices and First Choice Healthcare Clinics on Friday, July 4th, in observance of Independence Day. Some home services staff will continue essential care, but regular hours will resume on July 7th. Officials are warning of increased fireworks injuries during holiday celebrations, particularly among children under 15. The departments urge safe handling: never let kids use fireworks unattended and always follow instructions. Food safety is also a concern—keep perishables cold and discard food left out too long. For appointments, information on school physicals, HIV testing, or birth certificates, visit henrystarkhealth.com.

Russ Hughes and Kewanee Schools Athletic Director Coach Tim Atwell joined Jennifer Russell in the Sav-A-Lot Studio for the June 27, 2025, edition of The Boiler Shop on Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Kewanee Boiler Nation sports.

Sara Billiet joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about what's happening in July at the Kewanee Public Library. The Kewanee Public Library is wrapping up its successful summer reading program for children, which officially concludes on July 7th. Prizes should be claimed by then, but arrangements can be made if notified in advance. Story times continue through July, with both in-person and Facebook options available. Adults can look forward to a packed schedule, including a “Jaws” movie night for Shark Week, a native pollinator gardening session, an investing workshop, and a Scrabble tile coaster craft. The library is also seeking a young adult clerk for a 16-hour position focused on programming for teens. Details are on the library's website and Facebook page.

Kewanee Parks Director Andy Dwyer joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to explain the reasons why motorized or electric scooters, bikes, golf carts, skateboards, and similar devices are banned in Windmont Park; the dog park grand opening on July 3rd; the splash pad update; the wiffle ball league; and the movie in the park on June 27th. A host of changes and new activities are underway in Kewanee parks. The Park District has issued an immediate ban on motorized and electric scooters, bikes, and similar devices at Windmont Park, citing ongoing safety concerns. Only manually powered options are permitted, with pedestrians prioritized on all paths. Meanwhile, anticipation is growing for the Chautauqua Park dog park's grand opening on July 3rd at 10 AM, providing a vibrant social space for dogs and their owners alike. The splash pad's debut depends on weather-related delays, and registration is open for a new wiffle ball league beginning July 13th. Visit the district's website and Facebook page for more details.

At the League of Women Voters of the Kewanee Area's 79th annual meeting on June 18, 2025, Daniela Lozano and Lovondi Jordan, along with Mayor Gary Moore, highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Kewanee Commission on Human Relations. The commission is dedicated to reducing prejudice and promoting equality within the community, partnering with local organizations to advance its mission. Monthly meetings are held at Kewanee City Hall, welcoming public participation. The Kewanee Commission on Human Relations remains committed to fostering understanding and respect among all residents. Its mission is to eliminate prejudice, intolerance, bigotry, and discrimination in the city. The commission collaborates with local civic, religious, and educational groups to achieve these goals. Members such as Jessica Fornander, Taurean Bond, Liz Bermudez, Kari Clark, Daniela Lozano, and Lovondi Jordan serve alongside others with varying term expirations. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every month at 6 PM at Kewanee City Hall, and the public is invited to attend. The public can stay informed by reviewing agendas and minutes online. For inquiries or to get involved, contact City Clerk Kasey Mitchell at kmitchell@cityofkewanee.net or visit the commission's Facebook page.

Samantha Rux from OSF Healthcare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss mosquitoes and West Nile Virus. Health officials in Illinois are urging caution as mosquito testing reveals positive results for West Nile Virus in 18 counties, including Henry, Stark, and Bureau. Although no human cases have been reported so far, the risk remains high, particularly for older adults and those with compromised immune systems. The West Nile virus is mainly transmitted by mosquito bites, and past outbreaks in Illinois have been severe. Residents are encouraged to use EPA-approved insect repellent, wear protective clothing outdoors, and regularly remove standing water to prevent mosquito breeding. Early symptoms include high fever and severe headache; seek medical care if these occur. The West Nile virus, primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, is a growing health concern during the warmer months. While most people experience no symptoms or only mild, flu-like illness, severe cases can lead to dangerous conditions such as encephalitis or meningitis, especially in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. There is no vaccine or specific treatment available. The best defense is prevention: use EPA-approved insect repellents, wear long sleeves and pants outdoors, and eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed. Awareness of symptoms like high fever, severe headache, or confusion is crucial—seek medical attention if these develop. Illinois has faced significant challenges with West Nile virus since it was first detected in dead crows in the Chicago area in September 2001. By 2002, the state reported the highest number of human cases and fatalities in the United States, with 884 cases and 64 deaths. The Illinois Department of Public Health uses a comprehensive surveillance system to track infected birds, mosquitoes, horses, and humans. West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes, with people over 60 most at risk for severe illness. Authorities urge residents to eliminate standing water and use protective measures to reduce risk.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about HIV rapid tests, radon tests, men's health, WIC, school physicals, and sun safety. Health experts in Henry and Stark counties are urging residents to take advantage of a variety of preventative health initiatives this summer. Free rapid HIV testing will be available on June 27 at clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon, coinciding with National HIV Testing Day. Affordable radon home test kits are also on offer, raising awareness about this invisible lung cancer risk. For families, the WIC program now provides a streamlined EBT card for nutritional support. Men can access discounted lab screenings through June, and school physicals for students are being scheduled now. Details and appointments are available at henrystarkhealth.com.

Kunes Auto Group of Macomb is hosting First Responders Day this Saturday, June 21st, from 10 AM until 1 PM. The dealership at 3200 E Jackson Street welcomes everyone to celebrate the community's first responders. Andy Leverdiere joined What's Happening Western Illinois to talk about a special event on Saturday to honor the heroes of our community.  Attendees can explore emergency vehicles and equipment up close and interact with local heroes—including the Macomb Police Department, Illinois State Police, Office of Public Safety, Macomb Fire Department, Lifeguard Ambulance Service, Air Evac Helicopter Service, and the Illinois National Guard. Recent graduates looking for rewarding careers are invited to a special event spotlighting opportunities in police, fire, medical, and military fields. Organizers are focusing on connecting community members with representatives from each sector, offering insight into various roles and requirements. The event is open to all at no cost and welcomes families, creating a comfortable atmosphere to ask questions and learn more about public service careers. By encouraging participation from both job seekers and area residents, the event aims to foster stronger community partnerships with first responders and service members who work tirelessly to keep neighborhoods safe. "At Kunes Auto Group of Macomb, we believe in the power of community — and in honoring the everyday heroes who keep us safe. That's why we're thrilled to host our very first First Responders Day!"

Connie joined Jennifer on the phone for the monthly edition of "Cambridge Happenings" on Wake Up Tri-Counties to cover events at the end of June and through July 2025. Don't miss out on the Henry County Fair running through Sunday, June 22, 2025. The Henry County Fair continues to honor traditions with a community worship service this Sunday at the Midway Entertainment Tent. Local churches will lead the event, emphasizing unity and inclusivity, and all residents are encouraged to bring friends and family for a reflective gathering. Car lovers can gear up for the 2025 Car Cruise'n in Cambridge, with dates set for July 17th and August 14th at College Square Park, plus a special BBQ festival cruise on September 20th. Meanwhile, Valley View Club hosts monthly Steak Nights on the last Friday of each month, requiring reservations by the preceding Monday due to expected demand.

Russ Hughes and Jerry Salisbury joined Jennifer Russell in the Sav-A-Lot Studio for the June 20, 2025, edition of The Boiler Shop on Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Kewanee Boiler Nation sports.

Etta LaFlora and Lovondi Jordan joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Juneteenth and the meaning of Juneteenth, the history, and the importance of the Juneteenth Holiday. Across the country, communities are gathering to honor Juneteenth, commemorating the liberation of the last enslaved Black Americans in Texas on June 19, 1865. Observances focus on both celebration and reflection, highlighting the date's transformation from a Texas holiday in 1980 to national recognition in 2021. Events include parades, educational forums, and cultural performances, all centered on themes of freedom and equality. Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved Black Americans in Texas were finally told they were free, nearly two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. The announcement came as Union soldiers, led by General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston with life-changing news and the promise of a new beginning. Today, Juneteenth stands as a celebration of Black resilience, freedom, and the ongoing pursuit of justice. Communities gather for music, food, and reflection, honoring the struggles and dreams of those who endured enslavement. Juneteenth reminds us all to reflect, remember, and keep working toward equality for everyone.

Todd DeDecker from the Bishop Hill Heritage Association joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming Midsommar Music Festival. Bishop Hill prepares to welcome visitors to its annual Midsommar Music Festival on June 21, 2025. This free event pays tribute to the town's Swedish roots, featuring performances from groups like Black Hawk Pipes & Drums, Chloe Finch, Orion Community Band, and Norwegian Bachelor Farmers, all at the park gazebo beginning at 10 AM. Activities include Maypole decorating, a lively procession to the Colony School, and traditional Maypole dancing. Attendees can meet author Jannifer Stevens Powelson at Prairie Arts Center and enjoy refreshments, with the festivities concluding at The Colony Inn with live country music. Music will fill the village park gazebo starting at 10 AM as the summer concert series kicks off, featuring performances from Black Hawk Pipes and Drums, Chloe Finch, the Orion Community Band, and the Norwegian Bachelor Farmers. After the music winds down at 4 PM, everyone is invited to join in decorating the Maypole and participating in a festive procession to the Colony School. There, guests can dance around the Maypole and enjoy refreshments from the Bishop Hill Vasa Lodge—no experience needed. Don't miss the Midsummer Respite at the Vasa National Archives or a book signing by Jannifer Stevens Powelson at the Prairie Arts Center. The day wraps up with live country music by Ryan Bizarri at The Colony Inn from 7 to 11 PM. For directions or more information, visit www.visitbishophill.com or call 309-927-3899.

Kiran Ahluwalia (pronounced KIR-un all-oo-WAHL-iya) is making waves with her innovative sound, melding Indian vocal traditions with influences as varied as Malian blues, rock, and jazz. Kiran Ahluwalia joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about her music and upcoming performance at the Levitt Amp Galva Music Festival on June 22, 2025. Raised in Canada, Ahluwalia leads a dynamic six-piece band, consisting of electric guitar, accordion, organ, tabla, bass, and drum kit, that brings her artistic vision to life. Her latest album, titled "Comfort Food," doesn't just explore musical boundaries—it dives into pressing social issues, earning widespread praise from critics. As a two-time Juno Award winner, Ahluwalia continues to expand her global reach, inviting listeners into a rich tapestry of sounds and stories rooted in her diverse musical journey. Ahluwalia and her band will take the stage at 7:15 PM. Kiran Ahluwalia stands as an influential force in the world of contemporary global music. Drawing from Sufi, Qawalli, Ghazal, and Punjabi folk traditions, she crafts a vibrant and boundary-crossing sound, blending Indian classical roots with elements of blues, jazz, and R&B. Her 6-piece ensemble features electric guitar, accordion, tabla, and more, offering a rich, dynamic backdrop to reflective and socially conscious songs. Ahluwalia's latest album, "Comfort Food," includes collaborations with international artists and challenges rising Hindu fundamentalism and nationalism. Her achievements include two Juno Awards and the recent Canadian Folk Music Award for ‘Pushing Boundaries.' “When I was growing up in India, there were concerts that people from all over would crowd into. These concerts featured a repertoire, language and content that was both demanding and beyond the experience of a child. I was, however, entranced by the sound and feel of the music, even from an early age. My father would play tapes of Indian music for me and we would also listen to Bollywood on the radio,” Ahluwalia recalls. “So when a song came on that I wanted to learn, my mother would quickly write down the lyrics for me and I would sing along to learn the melody."

Katie Laleman joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about upcoming events for the Henry County Farm Bureau. Youngsters are gearing up for the Kids' Pedal Tractor Pull at the fairgrounds this Friday, June 20th. Registration starts at 3 PM, with competition kicking off at 3:30. Kids can climb aboard miniature tractors and race each other for fun and friendly bragging rights. Entry is free, and families are encouraged to come out and cheer, creating an energetic atmosphere full of community spirit. Later this summer, families can also enjoy a free safety-focused event on July 9th at the Central Bank Pavilion in Geneseo, featuring demonstrations and giveaways. Both events promise fun, learning, and plenty of excitement for all ages. Agricultural producers have an upcoming opportunity to deepen their market knowledge. Chip Nellinger of Blue Reef Agri-Marketing will host a Market Outlook Seminar Series at Lavender Crest Winery in Colona, Illinois, scheduled for July 1st. Topics are expected to include commodity trends, risk management, and agri-marketing strategies. Registration for this educational event closes on June 24th. Save the date for the annual golf outing on August 8th at Baker Park in Kewanee. 

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about what is coming up for the Henry County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare at the end of June. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments have announced temporary office and clinic closures on June 19th in honor of Juneteenth Freedom Day. Essential in-home services will still be available for those in need. Meanwhile, recent West Nile Virus detections in local mosquito populations have prompted health officials to urge residents to eliminate standing water, use insect repellent, and report stagnant sites. Free blood pressure checks and health information will be offered at the Henry County Fair on June 18th and 20th. Health insurance navigation and DOT physicals are also available at designated clinics. Details at henrystarkhealth.com.

Russ Hughes and Jerry Salisbury joined Jennifer Russell in the Sav-A-Lot Studio for the June 13, 2025, edition of The Boiler Shop on Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about baseball, softball, and track.

Dr. Jeffrey Johnson from the Kewanee Schools Foundation joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about 2025 scholarships, the Great Gatsby fundraiser in April, the outdoor fitness court, new band instruments, Wall of Honor updates, the alumni newsletter, and tennis courts. The Kewanee Schools Foundation recently awarded $155,000 in scholarships to 52 students from the 127 graduates of the Class of 2025, acknowledging nearly 4,000 collective service hours. Five new scholarships, including those honoring local families and first responders, were introduced. “An Evening with the Great Gatsby” fundraiser brought in $25,000 toward an outdoor fitness court, which, despite delays, remains slated for completion this year.  Five new scholarships were awarded this year, including the John Headlund, John Spets Family Memorial, Kyle and May Kay DeJaeger, James Mock Memorial (Kewanee First Responders), and Margo Eastman Barry Memorial Scholarships.  The Wall of Honor outside the Peterson Auditorium will have updated plaques soon. Over 7,000 newsletters will be mailed to registered alumni at the end of the month. The future tennis courts may include a Marjabelle Stewart Memorial Butterfly Garden in honor of Marjabelle Stewart and match the mural on the outdoor fitness court. If you would like to register for the newsletter or read back newsletters, visit the Kewanee Schools Foundation website.  For more details or to contribute, visit their website or Facebook page, call the foundation at 309-856-8702, or their office at 1001 N. Main Street, Kewanee, IL 61443.

Samantha Rux from OSF Healthcare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to give tips on keeping safe while grilling this summer. Grilling season is here, but safety should be on the menu alongside your favorite burgers. The Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that both charcoal and gas grills come with hidden dangers, including fatal carbon monoxide poisoning and gas explosions. To reduce risk, never use charcoal indoors or store a grill with smoldering coals inside. For gas grills, always check for leaks every time you reconnect the propane tank, and keep all components in top condition. Use grills outdoors, away from buildings, and remember—never start a gas grill with the lid closed. Following these tips can help ensure your backyard barbecue stays safe and fun. Visit https://healthlibrary.osfhealthcare.org/ for more grill safety tips. ImpactLife is calling on community members to roll up their sleeves and help save lives during an upcoming blood drive on June 19th. Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment and make a vital contribution that could change the course of a patient's recovery. Just one donation can make a difference for those in urgent need. Participants can sign up easily online at osf.care/Lbha50VZaUr. Every pint counts, especially as summer months often see shortages. ImpactLife invites everyone eligible to join this life-saving effort and make an impact in just a few minutes. OSF MyChart is introducing two-factor authentication to enhance the security of your personal health information. Soon, users will need to confirm their identity with a code sent to their phone or email, providing additional protection against unauthorized access. This process is similar to the security steps used by many banking and secure applications. Step-by-step instructions are available online to guide users through the setup. These changes are aimed at ensuring both ease of use and increased privacy for all patients. To get started or for more information, visit the OSF MyChart website and follow the detailed directions provided.

Organizers are calling for volunteers to join a lively community event with music, games, and contests at the Pride Picnic on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Northeast Park tennis courts. The event runs from 1 to 3 PM, or until everyone is done socializing. Elvis fans are in for a treat, as he'll be performing a few songs, with guests encouraged to snap photos. The first 175 attendees get a free kazoo—six colors to choose from—and everyone's invited to join a musical sing-along, featuring kazoos, ukuleles, or any quirky instrument. Fun competitions include a Kitty Superstar “meow" singing challenge and creative obstacle courses. If you have a chess set you can loan out for a few hours, bring it to the event, or contact Brad Ahrens for a fun twist on chess. While sales tables are out, art displays are encouraged. Volunteers of all ages and talents are welcome to participate. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 12:30.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about what's happening at the health departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, in partnership with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are spotlighting men's preventative health through June with discounted lab screenings for area men. Special rates are available for general health tests and prostate and colon cancer screenings; tests are offered on a cash basis, with some requiring fasting. The clinics also provide primary care, walk-in, mental health, and community health services, further expanding local healthcare access. In addition, free insurance assistance will be available at the Henry County Fairgrounds on June 18th and 20th. For appointments or information, visit henrystarkhealth.com or call your local clinic.

Kewanee Parks District Director Andy Dwyer and intern and University of Illinois baseball player Coltin Quagliano joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the splash pad, dog park, Northeast Pool, baseball clinic with Coltin, and golf league. The splash pad and dog park are weeks away from completion, depending on the weather. Andy talked about opening the pool in Northeast Park and what is required to open the pool. The temperatures prevented the pool from opening by Memorial Day this year, but the Oasis swimming pool officially opened on Saturday, May 31st. Once the pool opens, staff are needed to maintain the pool and pool house, lifeguards need to be on duty when the pool is open, and supplies are needed to keep the pool water safe. Coltin Quagliano plays baseball for the University of Illinois. Coltin graduated from Wethersfield High School in 2021 and started his college baseball career at Illinois Central College in East Peoria. Coltin is a senior and in his third year playing baseball for the University of Illinois. Coltin is an intern this summer for the Kewanee Park District. He will provide one-on-one instruction in baseball and softball, as well as organize and conduct a two-day baseball clinic over the summer. Coltin has held baseball clinics in Kewanee in past years, but this year he will be hosting the clinic in partnership with the Kewanee Park District. Stay tuned to the Kewanee Park District Facebook page for information as it becomes available.

Russ Hughes joined Jennifer Russell in the Sav-A-Lot Studio for the June 6, 2025, edition of The Boiler Shop on Wake Up Tri-Counties. Russ talked about baseball, softball, and track.

Galva Mayor Rich Volkert joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to recap the June 2, 2025, Galva City Council Meeting.  The water department expects a new truck by July, improving local service. Chief Townsend issued a reminder: burn days remain Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, with only yard waste permitted. Large item pickup can be arranged through City Hall or Eagle Enterprises. Hydrant flushing has wrapped up for the season, and two faulty hydrants have been repaired. A grassy lot between Market Street's former vet office and the dentist will soon be offered for sale, with a minimum bid set at $775. Mayor Volkert said, "It would make a good parking space for a business." June 13th marks the next car cruise-in event, starting at 5 PM, with free food available while supplies last. Galva residents are encouraged to participate in the upcoming clean-up week, running from June 16th to June 21st. It's crucial to bring proof of residency when dropping off most items at the city's maintenance yard, located between Preferred Home Health Care and Mary's Family Dining and Lounge. Please note that hazardous waste and yard waste are not accepted, and fees apply for tires and electronics. Elderly and handicapped residents unable to transport items should call City Hall to schedule a single curbside pickup. All items should be on the curb by 7 AM on June 16th for pickup, but please don't place items on the curb more than two days before. Staff will not retrieve items from backyards or inside structures. Contact Galva City Hall at 309-932-2555 for details. Shingles, antifreeze, LP tanks, yard waste, paint, or any hazardous material will not be accepted. Televisions and electronic components will be accepted for a fee at Eagle Enterprises during their normal business hours. Call Eagle Enterprises at 932-2936 if you have any questions. The maintenance yard will have extended hours from June 16th to 19th, from 7 AM to 5 PM, to allow for better convenience for residents. On June 20th, the yard will be open until 3 PM, and on June 21st, the yard will be open from 7 AM to noon.

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.