Podcasts about Kewanee

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

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

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

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

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

Regina works feverishly to wake Snow and Charming from the Sleeping Curse. Gold comes face to face with the Black Fairy, the powerful enemy Emma must fight in the Final Battle. Hook, still in Neverland, meets up with Tiger Lily, who gives him a piece of an ancient fairy wand to aid Emma in defeating […]

Rebecca is determined to get her life on track so when Josh's sister, Jayma asks her to be a bridesmaid, Rebecca decides to use her role to make things right with Valencia. Paula cannot accept Rebecca's new mindset while Greg, when helping someone else with their love dilemma, makes a realization of his own. So […]

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

In Storybrooke, Gold reveals to Emma and Snow that the Black Fairy is his mother and that the Dark Curse Regina cast was created by the Black Fairy. Emma agrees to help Gideon kill the Black Fairy, but is double-crossed by Gideon and left to die at the hands of a giant spider. Gideon opens […]

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

Rebecca is stuck on a plane with Dr. Akopian, heading to New York to get her old job back, and recounts her turbulent track-record with the men in her life. Back in West Covina, Rebecca’s friends attempt to search for her. So grab a cup of tea and join us as we explore the musical […]

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

At a loss for hope, Regina suggests a “girls’ night out” for Emma with her and Snow. While at the bar, she confides in the mixologist and sheds a tear. Meanwhile, the Nautilus is transported to the Enchanted Forest, where Aladdin and Jasmine board. They have yet to locate Agrabah and are growing weary. After […]

Rebecca learns how Josh feels about her and contemplates her role in life. Darryl announces his newfound sexuality to everyone at the firm. Heather and Greg struggle to work together after their break-up. So grab a cup of tea and join us as we explore the musical world in West Covina, California with Chelsea and […]

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss upcoming OSF HealthCare events. OSF HealthCare Saint Luke is seeking volunteers to support hospital operations, with roles ranging from front desk assistance to patient transport. To get involved, call 309-852-7500 or visit their website for online applications. In partnership with the Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network, OSF Saint Clare is co-hosting a two-day LivingWorks ASIST suicide intervention training on May 8th and 9th, 2025. This workshop is designed to equip participants with vital suicide first-aid skills. Visit here for more information or contact Stefanie Morris at stefanie.morris@osfhealthcare.org. Additionally, OSF Saint Luke and Saint Clare are accepting scholarship applications until May 1, 2025. Students can apply in person or online, taking an important step toward their educational ambitions. To apply for the OSF HealthCare scholarship at OSF Saint Clare, visit here. To apply for the scholarship at OSF Saint Luke, visit here. Interested students can pick up an application at OSF Saint Luke or request an electronic copy via email from Samantha Rux at samantha.l.harkerrux@osfhealthcare.org. Completed applications must be returned to Samantha Rux via email or mailed to OSF HealthCare Saint Luke Medical Center, 1051 W. South St., Kewanee, IL 61443, by May 1st.

In the Enchanted Forest, The Evil Queen is in search of a spell that will help her end Snow White for good, but her father has love in mind for his daughter and leads her on a quest to Cupid’s Arrow. However, The Evil Queen rebrands the arrow to follow hatred and discovers that the […]

Sara Billiet from the Kewanee Public Library joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about events happening at the Kewanee Public Library in May.  This May, the Kewanee Public Library is buzzing with activity for all ages. Cinema at the Carnegie features “Wicked” with screenings on April 29th, complete with refreshments and an intermission. Readers of all ages can gear up for the 2025 Summer Reading Program—“Level Up at Your Library!”—which offers prizes and special events. Homeschoolers can enjoy a hands-on project with The Garden Club on May 15th, and young adult homeschoolers are invited to share their hobbies at the Hobby Hangout on April 29th. Don't miss the library's 150th Birthday Celebration Block Party on May 17th, packed with music, crafts, treats, and family fun.

Rebecca and Josh present their case in Los Angeles while also confronting their buried feelings. Greg still harbors feelings for Rebecca, which leads to Heather and Greg breaking up. After realizing he’s bisexual, Darryl declares his love for White Josh in public. So grab a cup of tea and join us as we explore the […]

Raeann Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments to discuss what is happening in April at the health departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, alongside First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are spearheading efforts for healthier communities in alignment with National Public Health Week. Throughout April, affordable General Health/Thyroid Panel Blood Tests, featuring a complete cholesterol panel, are available for $50. Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon operate on a first-come, first-served basis, encouraging residents to make appointments. Additionally, National Infant Immunization Week highlights the critical role of vaccines in protecting children under two from preventable diseases. Vaccines have significantly reduced infant mortality, with the measles vaccine alone saving nearly 94 million lives since 1974.

During the First Ogres War, Beowulf leads a fearsome charge on the battlefield in the Enchanted Forest of old. After every last soldier had been slain, Beowulf surrenders to death just as Rumpelstiltskin intervenes, killing all the ogres. Hailed as a hero in the village, Beowulf is irked by Rumple’s new title. He creates a […]

Rebecca hopes to redeem herself by working on a case that she thinks will bring her closer to Josh. Rebecca tries to get people who live in Josh’s apartment complex to sign a petition about the water pressure. Rebecca originally wants to spend time alone with him, but Josh ends up inviting a lot of […]

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss STI Awareness Month, Easter food safety, and free Medicare wellness visits. April is highlighting key health initiatives in Henry and Stark Counties. With STI Awareness Month on, the mantra is "Talk. Test. Treat." to combat the rising 20 million new STI cases annually in the U.S., heavily impacting those aged 15 to 24. Local clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon offer discreet testing and treatment. As Easter nears, food safety remains paramount. Follow guidelines for safe egg handling to avoid illnesses. Lastly, prioritize preventive care with free Medicare Annual Wellness Visits. Call local First Choice Healthcare clinics for appointments and ensure a healthier tomorrow. Stay informed and proactive this April.

The events of how Robert, the father of David and James, was murdered are detailed in a flashback, in which Robert learns what happened to James after he ran away from King George. With help from Rumple, he tracks him to Pleasure Island, but their reunion is cut short by King George, who orders Robert’s […]

Katie Laleman from the Henry County Farm Bureau recently highlighted several significant initiatives fostering community support and education. The Bushels for Hunger program has enabled area farmers to donate enough grain, translating to 1.7 million meals over 15 years, significantly aiding the River Bend Food Bank with a $21,523 contribution this year. Scholarships worth $50,000 have been awarded by the Bureau, with recipients soon to be announced. Additionally, the Rural Nurse Practitioner Scholarship Program is inviting applications, focusing on strengthening healthcare in rural Illinois. Upcoming events include the annual golf outing at Baker Park in Kewanee, set for August 8, 2025.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss National Public Health Week, Cancer Control Month, and HIV Prevention Programs. As National Public Health Week 2025 commences, the Henry and Stark County Health Departments celebrate three decades of dedicated service, underscoring the theme “30 Years—Public Health Week It Starts Here.” With a focus on prevention and health equity, efforts are pursued to foster healthier communities. April also marks Cancer Control Month, encouraging lifestyle changes to reduce cancer risks. Additionally, National Youth HIV/AIDS Day highlights crucial PrEP/HIV prevention programs available in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon. This comprehensive initiative offers education, testing, and affordable treatment, contributing to the well-being of the community. For more details, contact the Henry & Stark Health Departments.

Tim Pletkovich joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming Zoom presentation at Kewane Public Library with descendants of two U.S. Presidents. The Kewanee Public Library is set to host an engaging Zoom event with two notable descendants of U.S. Presidents. On April 7, author and historian Tim Pletkovich will lead a discussion featuring Philip Smucker, a distant relative of George Washington and an accomplished war correspondent, alongside Ulysses Grant Dietz, a descendant of Ulysses S. Grant. They will explore several U.S. presidents' unique ancestral heritages and cultural influences, tracing their roots back to various regions of Britain. Smucker and Dietz bring their expertise and distinguished backgrounds, promising a captivating look into the historical connections that shaped America.

Kewanee City Council candidates in the 2025 consolidated election joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss their backgrounds, why they are running, what they want to accomplish, and their thoughts on privatizing Kewanee's water system. Listen to Tyrone Baker, Steve Faber, and Obrey Blumenshine in the podcasts below and on-air on Monday, March 31, 2025, beginning at 8:15 AM.

Kewanee City Council candidates in the 2025 consolidated election joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss their backgrounds, why they are running, what they want to accomplish, and their thoughts on privatizing Kewanee's water system. Listen to Tyrone Baker, Steve Faber, and Obrey Blumenshine in the podcasts below and on-air on Monday, March 31, 2025, beginning at 8:15 AM.

Kewanee City Council candidates in the 2025 consolidated election joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss their backgrounds, why they are running, what they want to accomplish, and their thoughts on privatizing Kewanee's water system. Listen to Tyrone Baker, Steve Faber, and Obrey Blumenshine in the podcasts below and on-air on Monday, March 31, 2025, beginning at 8:15 AM.

BreAnne Bryner, Sergeant Andrew Kingdon, and Chief Steve Kijanowski from the Kewanee Police Department joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about fundraising efforts to buy ROTH ID Tags in bulk to give away with car seat checks. The Kewanee Police Department, in collaboration with Amber Patch-Troxell of Farmers Insurance, is thrilled to offer free ROTH ID Tags for children. These tags are crucial in emergencies, offering a Universal Emergency Contact Identification System. They transform into ID bracelets to aid first responders if a driver is incapacitated in a crash. Parents can obtain a tag by having their car seat checked by Certified Passenger Safety Technicians or by attending a free event at City Hall on April 27, 2025, from 12-4 PM. The ROTH ID Tags are a $20 value. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your child's safety. Find out more about ROTH ID Tags here.

Sara Billiet from the Kewanee Public Library joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss events at the Kewanee Public Library in April. The Kewanee Public Library is buzzing with activities this April. "Coding for Tweens," postponed due to weather, is rescheduled for April 9th at 3:30 PM. Meanwhile, residents can look forward to a lively block party offering a bounce house, face painting, and engaging activities aimed at uniting the community in joy and camaraderie. Adding to the excitement, the Cinema at the Carnegie is presenting the enchanting musical "Wicked," with its first screening on April 10th at 2 PM, followed by another on April 29th at 10:30 AM. Get ready for a month filled with fun, creativity, and connection! For more information, visit https://kewaneelibrary.org/.

Kewanee Parks Director Andy Dwyer joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the extension for soccer registration, the splash pad, a dog park at Chautauqua Park, and the lake in Widmont Park. The park district set another record for soccer registration, with 370 kids signed up for summer soccer. Baker Park Golf Course will open for the season on Friday, March 28, 2025. Stay tuned to the Kewane Park District Facebook page for day-to-day updates on the golf course until the weather improves for the season. 

Shirley, Lisa, and, Allison joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the free meals for veterans and first responders, meals for the homeless, and a free Easter meal. Tres Café Kewanee is strengthening community connections with its generous offer of free meals to veterans and first responders. Shirley Chu and her business partner, Max Organista, extend this gesture every Tuesday for veterans and Thursday for first responders, available from 6 AM to 8 PM. Since 2020, Tres Café has provided around 70,000 meals, demonstrating a deep-rooted commitment to gratitude and support. Shirley, a cancer survivor, draws from her second chance at life to lead this mission of helping others. Charities interested in collaboration can connect with Shirley at 309-761-8088. Tres Café's deeds exemplify community spirit and appreciation. Her Galesburg and Abingdon locations work with local charities to feed the homeless, veterans, and first responders. They also have volunteer help to deliver meals to those who are unable to travel to the restaurant. They have expanded these services in Kewanee as well. Beginning in April, Tres Café will begin providing free meals to the homeless population.  Tres Tres Café is launching its free holiday meal initiative on Easter in Kewanee. Shirley said giving back and helping people is the right thing to do, and is giving a free meal for Easter, with no questions asked. Call the Kewanee location at 309-761-8088 to order a meal for pickup on Easter by April 13, 2025, to allow adequate time for them to prepare the meals. 

Rebecca mistakenly texts Josh instead of Paula that she moved to West Covina only because she loves him. To prevent Josh from seeing the message, she enters his apartment and deletes it from his phone, but he catches her when he returns, so she makes up a story about a burglary at her place. Meanwhile, […]

Dr. Jeffrey Johnson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the upcoming "Great Gatsby" fundraiser for the Kewanee Schools Foundation. The Kewanee Schools Foundation invites all to ‘An Evening with The Great Gatsby' on April 12, 2025, at the Midland Golf Club. This event commemorates 35 years of dedication to the Kewanee Community Unit School District. With a roaring 1920s theme, the gathering aims to raise $25,000 for an Outdoor Fitness Court at Kewanee High School and bolster the Foundation's Unrestricted Fund. Tickets are available starting at $60 before March 31st and $65 after March 31st, offering an opportunity to support educational initiatives while enjoying a night of elegance and nostalgia. Exciting news from the Kewanee Schools Foundation as they gear up to disburse over $150,000 in scholarships for the class of 2025. Find out more about their scholarships here. 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. For more information or to register for the event, please contact foundation assistant Mindi Goard at mgoard@ksf229.org or 309-856-8702. Online registration and donations may also be made on the Foundation's website at www.kewaneeschoolsfoundation.org.

In 1990 Minnesota, a young Emma is told by a teenager that she has the power to change her fate. In present day, after they miss their way out of the Wish realm, Emma and Regina find another option for escape when they come across August, who agrees to help create a new portal. Regina […]

Russ Hughes joined Jennifer in the studio for the Friday, March 14th, edition of The Boiler Shop. Russ Hughes closed out the winter sports season and gave a special shoutout to the seniors about to graduate. Next week will feature the athletes named to the All-Conference and introduce spring sports. If you know a Kewanee resident participating in College Sports, Russ wants to hear from you. You can email Russ at russchris325@gmail.com with their name, college, and what sport(s) they are playing.

Clinical Dietitian Marcia Wirth joined Tom Katz on "Here's to Your Health" to introduce the upcoming Kewanee 'Community Health Series' hosted by the Kewanee Public Library. Launching on March 18th, this promising initiative aims to foster community connectivity through a range of innovative nutrition programs. Sparked by growing awareness around diet and wellness, the series aspires to empower individuals with knowledge and practical tips for healthier living. The series, featuring discussions on various health topics, kicks off on March 18, 2025, from noon to 1 PM, with "Food Connects Us," presented by dietetic intern Kayla Jasperson. Each session in the series will meet in the second-floor community room at the Kewanee Public Library, which you can access from the front door and the elevator. Each event offers lunch for $5, payable at the door. Reservations are essential and can be arranged by contacting the Kewanee Clinic. Secure your spot by contacting the clinic at 309-853-3677 or emailing hhhfound@hammondhenry.com. Please include the number of guests attending with your reservation. The Kewanee Clinic is open from 7 AM to 4 PM. Future sessions include mental health, sleep issues, and diabetes, scheduled for May 20th, September 16th, and November 18th.

RaeAnn Tucker, Alex Lindbom, and Megan Washburn from the Henry and Stark Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to promote health and safety. Representatives from the Henry and Stark Health Departments emphasized the necessity of testing well water. Available at the Kewanee location for a nominal fee of $25, these testing kits ensure water quality as the summer season approaches. Additionally, Megan Washburn and Alex Lindbom highlighted the importance of adhering to food safety regulations, encouraging early permit applications to sidestep late fees. Residents with concerns or questions are urged to contact the Environmental Health Division at 309-852-0197 for expert guidance and support in maintaining community health standards.

Russ Hughes joined Jennifer in the studio for the Friday, March 7th, edition of The Boiler Shop. Russ Hughes recapped the exciting showdown between Kewanee and Sherrard in boys' basketball. Kewanee delivered an impressive performance in a thrilling match, showcasing their grit and determination. Some Boilermaker players in girl's basketball have been recognized for their outstanding efforts, earning spots on the prestigious Three Rivers Conference East Division list. This accomplishment highlights the dedication and talent of these young athletes. Stay tuned as Russ promises to delve deeper into the achievements and prospects of these celebrated players in next week's segment. Congratulations to Kewanee on their remarkable journey!

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss health designations for March and local education on heart health for school kids. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, in collaboration with First Choice Healthcare, are making strides in community health education. March is crucial as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, with clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon offering free FIT tests for those aged 45-75. Meanwhile, National Nutrition Month promotes the WIC Supplemental Food Program. Recently, RaeAnn Tucker engaged with local schools, educating children on heart-healthy habits and spotlighting the importance of regular exercise, balanced diets, and ample sleep. Additionally, as International Women's Day approaches on March 8, empowerment through health prioritization for women takes center stage.

A group of home-schooled children recently relished an engaging visit to the Regional Media studios in Kewanee. Ranging from toddlers to teenagers and accompanied by adults, the group explored the fascinating world of radio broadcasting. Their journey began at the WKEI studio, where they witnessed the transformation of interviews into radio shows. Seth Parlier then introduced them to the Hog County studio, sharing the secrets of his Birthday Barn recordings. Meanwhile, Jaden entertained in the conference room, and families recorded the "Wake Up Tri-Counties" intro. The tour concluded with juice boxes and goldfish crackers, leaving everyone with unforgettable memories. You can hear their show greeting at the top of the 7:50 AM newscast, on 1450 AM and 102.1 FM, on Thursday and Friday, February 27th and 28th. 

Josh volunteers at a camp for at-risk teens, with Valencia’s disapproval. Rebecca buys herself in as a donor to lead empowerment seminars for the girls, but she secretly tries to recreate her own teenage summer camp experience with Josh. Meanwhile, Greg works on his commitment issues for Heather. Darryl invites the boys over for a […]

The Kewanee Schools Foundation has an exciting lineup of events and opportunities ahead. On February 25th, a scholarship application workshop for seniors and parents will be held at Golby Student Center, aiding access to over 150 scholarships. Music enthusiasts can enjoy a Disney Spectacular concert by Kewanee High School Symphonic Band on March 1st at Petersen Auditorium, with tickets priced at just $5. Looking further ahead, mark your calendars for 'An Evening with the Great Gatsby' on April 12, 2025, at Midland Golf Club, supporting the Outdoor Fitness Court. For more information, visit their website or Facebook page.

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about upcoming events at Visitation Catholic School in March and April. As Lent approaches, it's time for the much-awaited fish fry season! Mark your calendars for a delectable treat featuring All-You-Can-Eat fried pollock happening on March 7th, March 21st, April 4th, and April 11th from 5:00-7:00 PM. Dive into this oceanic feast for just $12, complete with two sides of your choice, including baked potato, baked beans, pasta salad, or coleslaw, alongside a roll and a delightful dessert.  The annual Spring Fling Dinner & Auction at Visitation Catholic School in Kewanee is set for March 15, 2025. Beginning at 5 PM when doors open, attendees will enjoy a meal at 6 PM, entertainment, and an exciting online auction. The meal features a menu of pork carnitas, fajitas, and more, catered by the Saint John Paul II Parish Spanish Ministry. Tickets are priced at $25 and can be purchased through Venmo (@Visitation-CatholicSchool) or directly at the school office. This cherished event is a significant fundraiser, with all proceeds dedicated to supporting Catholic education. It's a perfect opportunity to enjoy a lovely evening while contributing to a worthy cause in the community. Some of the items in the auction include gift baskets donated by each class and local businesses, vacation packages, professional sports tickets, a ride to school with Kewanee Police and Fire Departments, private cooking lessons and catered dinners, furniture, a quilt handmade by Visitation students, plus more. For more information, please visit visitationcatholic.com/springfling, Facebook @visitationcatholic, or call the school office at 309-856-7451.

Sara Billiet from the Kewanee Public Library joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to highlight events for March at the Kewanee Public Library. This month, the library will host a variety of activities catering to both kids and adults. Highlights include interactive storytelling sessions for children, designed to enhance imagination and creativity. Additionally, the library offers a unique sensory room to provide a calming environment for young visitors. Adult patrons can look forward to engaging in workshops and book clubs, fostering community connection and lifelong learning. Don't miss the opportunity to participate in these enriching experiences at the Kewanee Public Library this March.

Dr. Carlos Avila joined Tom Katz on WKEI's "Here's to Your Health" to discuss family medicine at the Hammond-Henry Medical Group in Kewanee. Dr. Avila brings a wealth of knowledge from his diverse medical background, including his education in El Salvador and residency at Southern Illinois University. His roles have spanned from surgical assistant in San Salvador to lead physician at Unity Point Health Care. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Dr. Avila is not only a practicing physician but also a mentor to medical students. Dr. Avila is now accepting appointments at 309.853.3677. Visit the clinic at 1258 W. South Street, Kewanee.

Kewanee's much-anticipated Quarter Madness makes a grand return on March 14, 2025, at the Elks Lodge. This exhilarating raffle event promises exciting prizes like designer purses and gift cards, kicking off at 6:30 PM. Not only a night of fun, but proceeds also support the Prairie Chicken Arts Festival and Kewanee Rotary Club's community initiatives. Paddles are your ticket to participate—secure yours in advance online or at local outlets. Platinum paddles offer convenience, while Gold and White paddles bring thrill. Join the community, win incredible prizes, and make a difference. Follow the Kewanee Rotary Club on Facebook for updates. "Quarter Madness isn't just about winning; it's about giving back. Proceeds from the event support the Prairie Chicken Arts Festival and the Community Projects of the Rotary Club of Kewanee Foundation. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and individuals, we're assembling an amazing lineup of prizes." If you'd like to donate or purchase paddles, please contact Dianne Packee at 309-312-0168. How to Play and Win: To participate, you'll need a paddle—and the best way to secure yours is to buy in advance! Get your paddles online at www.kewaneerotary.com or in person at: Sutton and Associates Real Estate (Main & First Streets) Country Financial – Erin Spivey's Office (Division & Main Streets) Gold and White paddles will also be available for purchase at the Elks Lodge once doors open. How to play: The easiest way to play is to purchase a Platinum paddle for $40. Platinum paddles are entered to Win every prize all night, and you do not have to be present to win. You can sit at home on your couch, and we'll call you to tell you what you've won! Now if fun is your thing and you want to be at Quarter Madness in person, you'll want to purchase a Gold paddle for $30. With a Gold paddle, you must be there to watch your number. When we call your number, you've got to hoot and holler so we can get that prize over to your table! You can purchase unlimited Platinum or Gold paddles. Last but not least, we also have White paddles. White paddles are $5 each and are only available once the doors open on the day of the event. Here's where the quarters come in. In order for a White paddle to be in the raffle, you must bid the amount of quarters for the item's value. Items up to $25 are one quarter, $26-$50 are two quarters, $51-75 are three quarters, and $76 on up are 4 quarters per bid. Each person can only purchase two white paddles, and each paddle must have a bid on the item for it to be on the raffle drawing.

Kewanee Mayor Gary Moore joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to recap the Kewanee City Council Meeting on February 10, 2025. Finance Director James Webb presented the 2024 city audit, assuring no future audit issues after resolving past finance department concerns. Two ordinance amendments passed successfully. Exciting news for the Henry County Humane Society, which received a donation and a 40-year lease for a new shelter on South Fisher Avenue. However, during the meeting, residents voiced concerns over the proposed assistant for City Manager Gary Bradley, given budgetary constraints. Mayor Moore explained the assistant's cost is balanced by six recently unfilled city positions, lightening Bradley's current workload.

Etta LaFlora joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming Community Black History Extravaganza on February 16th at 2 PM at the First Congregational Church on West Prospect Street in Kewanee. Centered on the theme "Achieving more with togetherness and love," the event promises a vibrant celebration of culture and community. Highlights include performances by high school choirs, soul-stirring music from local churches, and educational displays that honor Black history. Local officials and community leaders will join in the festivities, making it a true gathering of unity and inspiration. The event celebrates the contributions of African Americans in the community and beyond. Attendees can enjoy educational displays, choir performances, and an essay contest with prizes sponsored by the Kewanee Commission on Human Relations. Refreshments will be served after the program.