Regional Media Podcast Network

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 will welcome community members at 123 West Exchange Street. September 28th brings a fishing derby for the kids at Valley View Country Club. Homecoming festivities are scheduled for October 4th, including a parade and pork chop dinners. Don’t miss the 35th Annual Fall Review on October 11th at the United Methodist Church, offering crafts, homemade treats, and more. Cambridge officials have confirmed this year’s trick-or-treat festivities, inviting families to mark their calendars for Friday, October 31st. Residents can prepare costumes and candy as neighborhoods welcome children from 5:30 to 7:30 PM.

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 family emergency plan, build an emergency supply kit, and get involved in your community.

With active threats inside hospitals often unfolding within eight minutes, OSF HealthCare Saint Luke Medical Center in Kewanee is taking action to safeguard staff and patients. Since 2016, the 25-bed facility has implemented a series of security upgrades, including increased protection for night-shift employees and training for 43 staff members in de-escalating aggressive behavior. The hospital introduced a workplace violence debrief tool, expanded departmental education, and prioritized thorough documentation of incidents. Backed by a $120,000 investment, these efforts aim to boost preparedness, enhance collaboration with local law enforcement, and foster a safer environment for the community. OSF Medical Centers conduct random drills to keep staff up-to-date on emergency procedures and practices.

Taking a few moments now to pack a go-bag or review Ready.gov’s low-cost preparation tips can pay off when every second counts. Classes in first aid, disaster response, and CPR are also available to help you protect yourself and others. Start today, and help ensure your family and community are prepared. Visit https://www.ready.gov/ for more information and safety tips.

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 awareness is equally important, as motorists often encounter slow-moving farm vehicles with limited visibility on local roads. The Governor’s proclamation encourages conversations about equipment operation, health practices, and safe behaviors to avert tragedies both on and off the farm. Illinois Representative Dan Swanson, who is also a farmer, talks about farm safety week.

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 fall cleanup week runs September 24th through 27th, with item pickup scheduled for the 24th and drop-offs allowed at the maintenance building. Cemetery cleanup follows from October 20th to 24th, with removal deadlines highlighted for families.