Regional Media Podcast Network

With fall harvest underway, agricultural workers face increased risks, as the sector remains the most dangerous in the United States, according to new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. To raise awareness, the third week of September has been designated National Farm Safety and Health Week—a tradition dating back to 1944. During this observance, leaders like Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie underscore the dedicat...

Todd DeDecker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the 53rd annual Jordbruksdagarna harvest festival, which arrives in Bishop Hill on September 27th and 28th, promising a weekend brimming with heritage and community spirit. The village will transform into a lively hub, featuring traditional craft demonstrations, a range of food vendors, live music, and engaging activities tailored for children. Visitors can also explore histor...

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to thank the Kewanee Police, Kewanee Fire, and the Henry County Office of Emergency Management for their participation in the first full-scale drill at OSF Saint Luke on Friday. In honor of National Farm Safety and Health Week, Sam talked about free access to Silver Cloud from OSF HealthCare. Residents in OSF HealthCare-served areas now have free access to SilverCloud, an...

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss National Lung Day, the Drive-Thru Flu Shot Clinic, World Contraception Day, Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, and Insurance Navigators. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments are encouraging community participation in several vital health initiatives. On October 17th, adults can receive the seasonal trivalent flu vaccine through a drive-thru clinic at 110 N. Burr Blv...

National Farm Safety and Health Week kicks off September 22nd, emphasizing this year’s theme: “Safety First, Avoid the Worst.” With the harvest in full swing, local roads will see more slow-moving farm equipment, such as combines and grain haulers. Drivers are urged to stay patient, watch for blind spots, and maintain safe following distances. On Tuesday, Henry County Fairgrounds will host the annual Share the Road event, featuring...

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Health Care Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss health news and designations for September. September is Sexual Health Awareness Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are spotlighting a range of vital resources at First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon. Residents can access confidential STD testing, treatme...

Peg Gray and Connie Osborne joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the 2025 Stark County Fall Festival this weekend. Excitement is building as the Stark County Fall Festival returns to Thomas Park in Wyoming on September 20th and 21st. Attendees can look forward to delicious food, including the beloved Wyoming Lions Club Pancake & Sausage Breakfast on Saturday morning from 7 AM until noon. On Sunday, enjoy a breakfast of bis...

Kurt Gustafson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties from the future expansion of Gustafson Ford in Kewanee. Gustafson Ford has been a family business for 75 years, with Kurt heading the family business for 40 years. Kurt talks about how he got started in the automotive business as a kid and a new apprenticeship program with Kewanee High School as a way to give back to the community. A local car dealership in Kewanee is making big strides in...

Cambridge is gearing up for a packed fall season, featuring the Backyard Barbecue Fest at College Square Park on September 20th. Attendees can expect live music from three bands, a barbecue cook-off featuring ribs and chicken, a car cruise-in, tournaments, and family-friendly activities. Cambridge residents in need of food assistance should mark their calendars for September 21st. Between 3 and 5 p.m., the Cambridge Food Pantry wil...

Sam Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about National Preparedness Month and how the OSF HealthCare system prepares its staff, and how you can prepare at home. September marks National Preparedness Month, a time to focus on getting ready for emergencies before disaster strikes. This year’s theme from FEMA’s Ready Campaign, “Preparedness Starts at Home,” spotlights essential steps: know your risks, make a fa...

September 15 through 21 is Farm Safety Week in Illinois, highlighting the urgent need for caution in one of the nation’s most hazardous professions. With more than 500 farming-related fatalities occurring annually across the U.S., tractor accidents top the list, alongside grain bin incidents and chemical exposures. Farmers routinely work in challenging environments and face unique risks from machinery, animals, and weather. Public ...

Galva Mayor Rich Volker provided key updates following Monday’s rescheduled city council meeting. Progress continues removing old lead water lines, with only 19 left to replace and two hydrants yet to be updated this year. Mayor Volker addressed growing safety concerns about electric bikes and scooters, emphasizing the need for parental awareness and adherence to existing sidewalk regulations. Residents are reminded that the city’s...

A festive atmosphere filled the streets as the 2025 Kewanee Hog Days Parade showcased 84 vibrant entries. Clear skies contributed to the jubilant mood, enhancing the experience for attendees and participants alike. Judges announced Peoples National Bank as the Ambassadors Club winner, while the State Bank of Toulon claimed the coveted Sweepstakes title. Cookies Gaming took top honors in the Commercial category, demonstrating creati...