Illinois News Now

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

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

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

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

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

The Kewanee City Council meeting began with a public hearing focused on the Source Water Improvement Project and lead service line replacement, aiming to ensure safer drinking water. Deputy Assessor Jennifer Prescott is set to provide insights into Equalized Assessed Value changes. On zoning matters, variances and special use permits for local properties will be considered. The council will vote on supplier agreements, including fuel for city vehicles, and address tax abatements related to major bond debts. Additional resolutions include authorizing city officials for financial transactions, appointing an IMRF agent, and setting next year's council meeting calendar. Organizational, procurement, and environmental policy updates are also on the discussion list.

Steve from Matthew 5:42 Ministries, and Briseidy and Hallee from Next Generation for Christ joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about their service to the community, volunteer needs, monthly community meals, working with the homeless, and clothing and furniture assistance. A group of dedicated teens from Next Generation for Christ is making a difference in Kewanee by organizing free monthly community meals at First Christian Church, which are on the last Saturday of the month. Volunteers of all ages prepare and serve food, with donations in the form of cash, checks, or supplies eagerly accepted. Their efforts extend beyond meal service, as members personally deliver food to homebound individuals and those experiencing homelessness. Their efforts don't stop there; December will see a Christmas event offering crafts and fun for kids, while parents can enjoy a night out. They will need volunteers to assist in babysitting the children. Partnering closely with Matthew 5:42 Ministries, they also support initiatives in furniture, clothing, and resources such as job applications and resumes. The Thanksgiving community dinner drew an impressive 148 attendees, with 30 dedicated volunteers serving up hearty meals. Organizers expressed gratitude as every bite was enjoyed, leaving behind no leftovers, a remarkable feat considering previous years often resulted in surplus food donations to local hospitals and emergency workers. The demand for meals underscores a growing need in the community. Organizers encourage local teens and anyone interested to join efforts through volunteer programs such as Key Club or Matthew 5:42, extending a warm invitation to both contributors and helpers. The First Christian Church is coordinating volunteer sign-ups and donation opportunities. Call 309-853-4298 if you need assistance, want to volunteer, or want to donate. A local church is preparing a special Christmas festival this December, offering a unique opportunity for parents to enjoy holiday shopping or a night out while their children are cared for. Aimed at kids ages five to eleven who are potty-trained, the event promises crafts, games, and a variety of fun activities. Organizers are still finalizing the exact date, with December 13th as the tentative choice. Updates and finalized details will be shared on the church's "Next Generation for Christ" Facebook page. Volunteers with skills in babysitting, crafts, or creative arts are encouraged to get involved and help make the event a festive success. First Christian Church is preparing to launch a community food pantry, with donations of canned goods now being accepted. Michelle Quagliano will lead this new outreach, an extension of the Matthew 5:42 ministry. The initiative is supported by a dedicated team, each focusing on essential needs—from Paula handling clothing distribution to Steve managing furniture donations. The food pantry is expected to open its doors soon, once shelves are fully stocked. Next-Gen, a local youth group, is also collaborating to ensure success. Organizers invite the community to contribute as they work together to address hunger and support families in need. Next Generation for Christ, launched three years ago, embarked on their journey with a visit to a Native American Reservation in Arapaho, Wyoming—a trip that left a lasting impact on its members. Beyond providing meals, the organization extends support to the community through various outreach activities. Volunteers assist with educational programs, youth mentorship, and cultural exchange events, fostering strong connections. They participate in cleanup projects and help facilitate access to essential resources. Group members emphasize that their mission goes beyond service, aiming to build lasting relationships and address the broader needs of the local population. Matthew 542 has become a cornerstone in the Kewanee community, focusing not only on feeding those in need but also building lasting trust with the area's homeless population. Over the last five years, this initiative—anchored by the First Christian Church—has expanded to reach more individuals, partnering with groups like Next Gen and Finish Well Ministries. Volunteers regularly deliver meals and essentials, fostering relationships and understanding. The unique approach ensures everyone is welcome at community dinners, regardless of their circumstances. Organizers say the key is treating guests with respect and dignity, paving the way for further help and spiritual support. Paula is gearing up to launch a series of clothing drives starting in January, aimed at providing essential items to those in need. Alongside these initiatives, resource fairs and job application workshops are planned to empower community members with new skills and opportunities. Within the Matthew 5:42 service, volunteers and staff often work shoulder to shoulder with recipients, forging a sense of shared purpose. Michelle also has exciting updates on the food pantry, ensuring broader community support. Many recipients of furniture assistance become regular volunteers, a clear sign of impact as the cycle of giving continues to grow and inspire others.

Drew Herridge with the Marshall-Putnam County Fair Board joined Issac on Wake Up Tri-Counties to officially announce the headliner music act for the 2026 Marshall-Putnam Fair! Country music sensation Scotty McCreery is set to take center stage at the 2026 Marshall-Putnam Fair in Henry, Illinois. The concert, presented by Country Financial—Steve Vogel and Jonathan Krieghauser, marks a major highlight for the fair and promises an evening packed with McCreery's chart-topping hits, including “Cab in a Solo” and “Five More Minutes.” With his storied career featuring award-winning albums and singles, anticipation is building for this special event scheduled for Thursday, July 16, 2026. Gates open at 5:30 PM, and the concert kicks off at 7 PM. Tickets will be available starting December 5, 2025, at 8 AM, at the fair's official website. Stay tuned for future announcements with the other opening acts. 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.

Sara Billiet joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to introduce the new Director of the Kewanee Public Library, David Eckert, and talk about upcoming events heading into the holiday season. The Kewanee Public Library has officially welcomed new director David Eckert, who brings three decades of library experience, including a start as a children's librarian. Library staff are encouraging community participation in several upcoming programs. Due to Baker & Taylor's closure, the library's Boundless app for ebooks will be replaced by The Palace Project soon, while Hoopla remains unaffected. Residents are invited to donate extra seeds for the library's growing seed exchange and contribute nonperishable food and hygiene items for the local food pantry—the collection runs through December 22nd. Santa visits the library on December 13th, complete with photo ops and activity kits for kids. David, the new library director, brings three decades of library experience—including a stint as a children's librarian—and even has a background in music, having played double bass professionally before joining the library world. David and his family are settling into the area, buying a house in Toulon, and are excited about the bigger yard for their two large dogs. He's looking forward to the region's Amtrak station for easy trips to Chicago and exploring local towns like the Quad Cities, Peoria, and Princeton. David hopes his innovative ideas from past roles will benefit the library community, even if he may have to start making homemade pizza.

Todd DeDecker with the Bishop Hill Heritage Association joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the 2025 Julmarknad, or Swedish Christmas Market, beginning on November 28th. Bishop Hill is gearing up for its annual Julmarknad Christmas Market, a vibrant celebration of Swedish culture scheduled across five festive days: November 28th, 29th, and 30th, and December 6th and 7th. Note: Saturday, November 29th, events may be rescheduled due to severe winter weather in the forecast. From Scandinavian folk characters and traditional cookie walks to Dala horse crafting and Swedish music concerts, the village is set to transform into a holiday destination for all ages. Shoppers will find unique handmade gifts, while children can enjoy model railroads and interactive workshops. Special events, including book signings, take place at sites like the Colony School and Vasa National Archives. Full event details are available at visitbishophill.com. The market runs from 10 AM to 4 PM on November 28th, November 29th, and December 6th. On November 30th and December 7th, doors open an hour later at 11 AM, closing at 4 PM each day.

Eddie Toliver from the Kewanee Salvation Army and Marty Medley from the Kewanee Elks Lodge #724 joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the functions of the Salvation Army and the Elks Lodge within the Kewanee community. The Salvation Army's Red Kettle campaign is in full swing, and community partners like the Elks Club are stepping up with grant support and volunteers.  The Kewanee Elks Lodge presented the Kewanee Salvation Army with a $2,000 check to help bridge the gap from grants this year. The Red Kettle campaign, angel trees, and a variety of grants aim to provide food, gifts, and assistance for those in need. This year's theme is "Give with Joy," but organizers say grants are down 50% and the need is greater than ever. Innovative giving options, like the “tip tap” contactless kettle and sponsorship packages, are now available. Volunteers for bell ringing are needed—just one hour can help. Applications for Angel Tree support are extended through November 25th. The registration deadline for the Angel Tree program has been extended to November 25th at the Kewanee Salvation Army. Families with children ages one to thirteen who need holiday assistance can apply online or visit the Salvation Army Store on North Tremont Street. Required documents include a medical card, a valid ID, and proof of current address. The Angel Tree program, in partnership with Patchy's Red, White, and Blue Christmas Toy Drive, aims to ensure local children in need receive gifts this season. Early angel tags are available for pickup, allowing shoppers to participate before tags appear at Kewanee Wal-Mart. The Kewanee Elks Lodge is making a significant impact in the community through the Elks National Foundation's Community Investments Program. As this year's grants coordinator, Marty Medley, reports, the local lodge has secured $9,000 in grant funding, which is being distributed to vital local initiatives. The Salvation Army's Adopt-a-Family holiday meal program will receive support for both Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. Additional grants are assisting the Goodfellas Christmas baskets, United Way's Shoes for Kids, the Kewanee High School pantry, the Kewanee Food Pantry, and Freedom House, to name a few. Elks members aren't just donating funds—they're directly involved in delivering meals, fitting shoes, and supporting distribution efforts throughout Kewanee. Want to join the 250 local members in Kewanee? The local Elks Lodge is actively seeking new members and welcomes anyone interested to join their efforts in supporting the community. Most membership dues stay with the local lodge, and a portion supports national initiatives. If you're interested in signing up, you can call 309-852-2797 and leave a message; the team will respond with information and an application. The Elks Lodge is known for giving back to the community through various charitable efforts and is eager to have more people involved in their projects and events. Local Salvation Army fundraising is facing a significant challenge this year, with grants down by 50% compared to last year. The annual goal this season is $36,000 to bridge the gap from grants, which are crucial to sustaining vital housing and utility assistance programs for the community. Organizers are urging residents to give with joy, emphasizing that all money raised stays local. Multiple giving options are available, including the new “tip tap”—a contactless card donation method. Unique kettle challenges, like Bears vs. Packers and Police vs. Fire, add a competitive spirit. Volunteers are also needed, with just one-hour shifts making it easier than ever to help. Shoppers will spot the iconic red kettles at Walmart, Farm King, Walgreens, and Save A Lot, where volunteers collect donations. This year brings added excitement, with local groups facing off in friendly kettle challenges and special themed events. The football rivalry kicked off the season on November 22nd, at the Bears vs. Packers Challenge. Organizers are calling for volunteers to help keep the festivities running smoothly. Interested individuals can sign up by calling 309-853-4192, emailing eddie.toliver@usc.salvationarmy.org, or visiting RegisterToRing.com. The event promises lively spirit, friendly competition, and plenty of opportunities to connect with neighbors. Mark your calendars and consider lending a hand to support your local community during this exciting day of football fun. On December 5th, it's police vs. fire; on December 6th, it's Santa vs. the Grinch; on December 13th, it's the Commanders Red Kettle Challenge.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Public Health Thank You Week, Turkey Tactics, National Care At Home Month, the blood test food drive, and Thanksgiving office closures. Health services in Henry and Stark counties will pause for Thanksgiving, as all Health Department offices and First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon close on November 27th and 28th. Limited home services staff remain available for essential home care needs. Residents can call each clinic directly or visit henrystarkhealth.com for additional details and updates. Social media accounts also provide daily information. November is National Care at Home Month, shining a spotlight on caregivers and home care assistants across Henry, Stark, and Bureau Counties. The Henry and Stark Health Department's Home Services Division offers meal preparation, housekeeping, transportation, and personal care to support independence and comfort for those recovering from illness or needing extra help. For personalized care at home, call 309-852-0492 or visit henrystarkhealth.com. National Public Health Thank You Day is set for November 24th, 2025. This day recognizes the dedication of public health professionals, from nurses to preparedness planners, who work year-round to keep communities safe and healthy.

Gwen Murphy has set a new milestone in the United Way's annual Jail and Bail fundraiser by bringing in $1,289, shattering previous records, which organizers say hovered around $300 to $400. The event, which took a new mobile format this year, raised a total of $4,900 for United Way, supporting 15 local non-profits and community impact projects such as Shoes for Kids, food assistance, and shelter programs. Both Gwen's enthusiasm and the community's generosity are being praised, with organizers hinting at more competition—and possibly even some extra rewards—for next year's participants. Linda Blair said, "She was really inspirational in this campaign. We really, really appreciate it. I don't think any of us thought it would be anywhere near this successful." Nat Smith said, "Tami and I were able to come up with a kind of a different format, and we were able to take the jail on the road so people didn't have to be away from their jobs very long. I think it allowed us to capture a few people that otherwise we would not have been able to get for volunteering." In 2025, the Kewanee Area United Way will fund 15 local agencies offering vital support for residents of Stark and Henry Counties. Services span mental health counseling, elder care, housing, food assistance, tutoring, and programs for veterans, youth, and families. Notable organizations include Abilities Plus for individuals with disabilities, ABCD's after-school initiative, Freedom House for domestic violence support, and the Kewanee Food Pantry. The Henry County Youth Services Bureau and Sunshine Community Services Center focus on empowering and mentoring children. These agencies rely on community support, ensuring essential resources are accessible for neighbors in need throughout Kewanee and the surrounding areas. Find the full list of agencies here. The Kewanee Area United Way continues its long-standing mission to enhance the quality of life in Henry and Stark Counties, supporting health, education, and financial stability for residents. “The mission of the Kewanee Area United Way is to increase the organized capacity of people to care for one another.” Their newest initiative, Shoes for Kids, began in 2024, providing much-needed footwear to students in the Kewanee Area School Systems, with plans to expand the program into 2025. Each year, the board selects nonprofit partners dedicated to essential community services. Residents are encouraged to show support through donations or volunteering on the Board of Directors. For more information or to get involved, visit the KAUW website, email Kewaneeareaunitedway@kewanee.com, or call 309-761-8447.

Cassandra Schmoll joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the Senior Center Cookie Fundraiser, Medicare Part D open enrollment, 2026 trips, home-delivered meals, weekly lunch, Tuesday dinner, and Cinnamon Roll Fridays. Enrollment for Medicare Part D is underway at the Henry County Senior Center, with the deadline coming up on December 7th. Staff are on hand to help residents compare plans—just bring your list of prescriptions for a free review that could save you money. The Senior Center is also launching a cookie kit fundraiser to support its home-delivered meal program; orders are open to all ages and needed by December 5th. Upcoming events for 2026 include trips to the Parade of Nations, Mount Rushmore, Mackinac Island, and Branson. For meals and more, call 309-853-8831. The Henry County Senior Citizens Center in Kewanee offers lunch at the center and delivers lunch to people in Henry County who are unable to leave their homes. The local community center offers nutritious lunches every weekday and a hearty supper on Tuesday evenings, with a modest suggested donation making it accessible to everyone over 60. Friday mornings feature homemade cinnamon rolls and coffee, creating a cozy start to the day. Beyond these gatherings, the program extends its reach with home-delivered meals, ensuring that seniors in Geneseo, Atkinson, Annawan, Cambridge, Orion, Kewanee, and Galva are not left out. For more details or to contribute to this cause, community members are encouraged to reach out to the center at 309-853-8831. They release a monthly menu on their Facebook and web pages. A suggested donation for the weekday noon lunch is $3.75, for the Tuesday night supper at 5 PM is $4.75, for Friday morning cinnamon rolls from 8 to 10:30 AM is $1, and for the meal delivery service is $4. A big fundraiser for the year for the Henry County Senior Citizens Center is underway, offering Christmas cookie decoration kits for $15 each. Each kit features a dozen cut-out cookies, three colorful frosting varieties, and an assortment of sprinkles, perfect for seasonal creativity. Orders are being accepted now through December 5th, with a scheduled pickup date of December 22nd, between 8 AM and 2 PM. Supporters are encouraged to participate and spread holiday cheer while contributing to a good cause. Organizers note that quantities are limited, so early reservations are recommended. Whether gifting to friends or enjoying at home, the kits promise fun and flavor for all ages. Contact the senior center at 309-853-8831 to order or for more information. The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period kicks off on October 15, 2025, offering a chance for Medicare recipients and those soon eligible to review and update their coverage. Everyone is encouraged to assess their Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage plans to ensure the best fit for their healthcare needs. The Henry County Senior Citizens organization is providing free assistance to help individuals navigate their policy choices and select the most suitable Medicare Part D plan. Appointments can be made by calling 309-853-8831, but availability is limited as slots are filling quickly. Don't miss out on this essential opportunity.

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare Saint Luke Medical Center joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to spotlight several community initiatives. Residents are encouraged to participate in the Holiday Lights Recycling program by dropping off unwanted holiday lights in a box inside the lobby of the main door, promoting both sustainability and local support. Rux also highlighted the Blessing Box—a resource providing essential food and supplies to neighbors in need. When the temperatures drop, Blessing Box items are moved inside the lobby of the main door. OSF HealthCare officials recommend taking what you need while leaving something for someone else in need. Community members are encouraged to take what they need and leave what they can. For after-hours donations, items can be delivered to the emergency room front desk. Additionally, she shared information on OSF OnCall services, which offer convenient, virtual healthcare options around the clock. OSF OnCall services are available 24/7 through their website, the MyChart app, or the MyOSF app. These efforts underscore OSF HealthCare's commitment to supporting the well-being and resilience of the Tri-Counties community throughout the holiday season and beyond. 

The 39th annual Country Village Christmas Bazaar lights up Visitation Catholic School in Kewanee this Saturday, November 22nd, from 9 AM to 3 PM. Inside Goetzman Gymnasium, shoppers will discover handcrafted gifts, unique holiday decor, and a special Mini Makers Market featuring creative youth crafters. Local vendors and artisans will showcase unique, handcrafted gifts and seasonal decor, with a special Mini Makers Market featuring the talents of young crafters. Don't miss out on the raffle extravaganza—over 45 prizes, ranging from themed baskets to electronics and gift cards, are up for grabs with $1 tickets available through Friday. Children can visit Santa Claus, with photo opportunities offered for a free-will donation. Rounding out the event, homemade treats and an array of food options promise to satisfy every taste. Organizers invite everyone to join a festive community gathering and support local talent. More details at visitationcatholic.com/bazaar or call 309-856-7451.

Connie Johnson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties for the monthly edition of "Cambridge Happening" to talk about the Minds 5K, the closure of the Village Office for Thanksgiving, and Christmas on the Square. Cambridge is gearing up for a season full of community celebrations. On November 22nd, residents are invited to participate in the Miles for Minds 5K run/walk at College Square Park, benefiting Gray Matters and the FFA. As Thanksgiving nears, keep in mind the Village Office will be closed November 27th and 28th. Christmas on the Square returns December 6th, kicking off with a spaghetti dinner at the United Methodist Church, followed by a lighted parade, horse-drawn carriage rides, face painting, and visits with Santa. All activities are free, with proceeds supporting local causes. Light Up Cambridge and other holiday contests add to the festivities.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Lung Cancer Awareness Month, the Great Smokeout on November 20th, insurance navigators, Covid and flu vaccines, the A1C test special, the food drive blood test special, and food safety. Residents of Henry and Stark Counties are encouraged to join the Great American Smokeout on November 20th, aiming to take that important first step toward quitting smoking. Local health departments are highlighting the significant health benefits of becoming tobacco-free, especially as November marks both Lung Cancer and Diabetes Awareness Months. Area clinics are offering discounted hemoglobin A1C tests for diabetes monitoring and updated COVID-19 and flu vaccinations. As the holidays approach, officials also urge extra food safety precautions to prevent illness at gatherings. For health support, resources, and vaccination information, contact the local health department or First Choice Healthcare clinics.

Lisa Janey from the Kewanee Food Pantry joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss how the Kewanee Food Pantry operates, the items it needs, and to express gratitude to the community for its donations of much-needed food, money, and hygiene essentials. Wethersfield High School's National Honor Society is cooking up community spirit this Friday during the football playoff quarterfinals. From noon to 2 PM, sweet treats will be on sale, with every dollar supporting the Kewanee Food Pantry. Along with the bake sale, students are offering Geese and Titans merchandise for donation. Looking to help another way? On Saturday, a drive-thru donation event in Good's Furniture parking lot invites locals to drop off food and hygiene essentials from 11 AM to 2 PM. The Kewanee Public Library is also collecting donations through December 22nd. Small acts are making a big difference for neighbors in need. The Kewanee Food Pantry is accepting online donations through the PayPal Giving Fund, a platform that ensures every dollar goes directly to support their mission. Unlike many donation services, this program charges no fees to either the charity or the donor, so contributions stretch even further. With your support, the pantry can purchase more supplies from food banks, maximizing the impact for community members in need. To donate, visit the PayPal Giving Fund online and select Kewanee Food Pantry. Every contribution helps provide essential groceries for local families and strengthens hunger relief efforts in the region.

Andrew Carlson has been officially sworn in as a police officer for the Kewanee Police Department at the October 27th meeting. New Business began with a presentation by a Waterworth representative. In city council matters, several ordinances were introduced this session: approval for a privacy fence height variance on South Chestnut Street and a variance for an accessory structure on Simpson Avenue. Additionally, a special use permit was approved for James Steinke, doing business as Chrome Gypsy Tattoo, at 600 North Lexington Avenue. A resolution was also passed affirming the mayor's appointments to commissions and boards.

At the October 14th Kewanee City Council meeting, Chris Berry was officially sworn in as Kewanee's new Public Works Director. Nic Nelson presented updates on Tax Increment Financing, with votes to terminate the Kentville Road TIF District. The council also moved forward on several resolutions, including a $250,000 grant application to IDOT for Safe Routes to School, airport board appointments, and an agreement with SMARSH for archiving city data. The fire department received approval to accept grant funds for new defibrillators and infrastructure upgrades for North Lexington. Discussions followed regarding utility funding and public works vehicles.

On Monday evening, the Kewanee City Council reviewed several proposed ordinances and resolutions, including the presentation of Restorative Justice from Mitrese Smith, a third-year law school student, and approved a resolution to vacate a portion of the alley between Jackson and Washington Streets. Council members approved a timber sale agreement with Fischer Sawmill and considered and tabled a long-term financial modeling contract with Waterworth for city infrastructure. Other resolutions included transferring real estate interests to the Illinois Department of Transportation and selecting a new energy supplier for city facilities beginning in 2026. Also on the agenda, the city council approved a resolution to replace the City Council Chambers' sound system, the acquisition of a new city truck, a tax levy discussion, new police tasers, GIS developments, and Highway 81 construction updates. After a lengthy discussion between council members Adam Cernovich and Chris Colomer with public works director Chris Berry regarding the difference between the budgeted amount for a new snow plow dump truck and the quote up for vote, Kasey Mitchell suggested public works pay the $187,000 budgeted and finance the difference. Then, address the difference during future work sessions. The next council work session is scheduled for November 19, 2025, and the tax levy discussion will take priority. The new sound system approved by the city council will allow for upgrades, add microphones, and stream on YouTube, for example. Construction of Highway 81 in Kewanee has been pushed back again. The initial phase of construction will begin in the summer of 2026 and will include sidewalks, removing trees, placing retaining walls, etc. Physical construction of the roadway isn't scheduled to begin until 2027, barring any additional delays. The Illinois Department of Transportation is requesting the City of Kewanee pay approximately $100K to pay for stain and anti-graffiti treatment on the retaining walls for the future Highway 81 through Kewanee. City council members agreed that it is worth discussing further. Call Michael Kuehn from the Illinois Department of Transportation at 815-284-5351 with any complaints or concerns regarding Highway 81.

Head football coach Tony Gripp joined Issac Forney on Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the Round 3 Quarterfinals for the A&W Titans on Saturday, November 15, 2025. An electric atmosphere is expected this Saturday as the A-W Titans go head-to-head with the Lena-Winslow Panthers in the IHSA Class 1A Football Playoff Quarterfinals. The matchup kicks off at 1 PM at Wethersfield Memorial Stadium, where both sides look to extend their impressive seasons. Fans can rally behind their teams in person, with digital tickets available on GoFan for $8 plus a $1.40 fee, or purchase admission with cash at the gate for $10. Supporters are urged to fill the stands as these rivals battle for a spot in the semifinals, promising an afternoon packed with gridiron excitement.

Samantha Rux with OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the respiratory illness season and what illnesses are prevalent at the moment. Hand, foot, and mouth disease is on the rise in young children, especially those in daycare, according to OSF HealthCare pediatricians. Classic symptoms include red blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth, along with fever, sore throat, and irritability. While most cases are mild and treated at home, parents should consult a doctor if high fever or worsening symptoms persist. Experts stress the importance of handwashing and disinfecting surfaces to limit the spread. In encouraging news, hospitals report fewer RSV hospitalizations this season, thanks to new prevention tools like maternal vaccines and infant antibodies. It's never too late to get flu, COVID-19, or RSV vaccinations to protect yourself and others. Talk with your primary care provider today regarding vaccinations. Find more information from the OSF HealthCare newsroom here.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Nurse Practitioner's Week, vaccines, a lab special for a food donation, insurance navigators, and expanded mental health services in Stark County. Residents in Henry and Stark Counties can take advantage of extended general health and thyroid panel blood test specials at First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon, now available through January 1, 2026. The $40 offer, plus a non-perishable food donation, covers a comprehensive panel including cholesterol screening, with all food donations benefiting local pantries. Additionally, the clinics are expanding mental health therapy services for those with Medicare. Nurse Practitioner's Week runs November 9–15, spotlighting their role in care and prevention. More details are available online or by calling either local clinic for appointments or information.

Galva Mayor Rich Volkert joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the November 3rd city council meeting. Key topics included the sale of an old squad car to a city police officer and a positive report from the city's auditor, confirming strong financial practices. The council addressed changes at the ethanol plant due to new restrictions on carbon dioxide emissions. Lapis Construction is set to begin a multi-year project to store CO2 deep underground, with further public meetings planned as the process unfolds, which could take a couple more years, according to Mayor Volkert. Lastly, Veterans Day will be marked with a ceremony at Veterans Park on November 11th at 11 AM. Mayor Volkert is asking residents to come on in full force for the Veterans Ceremony on Tuesday.