Regional Media Podcast Network

Nichelle Morey joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the 2025 Henry and Stark Counties Relay for Life. Hope and community spirit take center stage as Relay For Life marks its 40th anniversary at Windmont Park in Kewanee, Illinois, on Saturday, August 23, 2025. Scheduled from 6 to 10 PM, this annual event pays tribute to all those touched by cancer, shining a light on survivors at every stage. An opening ceremony is at 6 PM, and the highlight of the evening is the Survivor Lap at 6:30, symbolizing collective strength and determination. The open walk is from 7 to 9 PM, followed by the luminary ceremony at 9. The silent auction is from 5 to 9 PM inside the shelter house. Participants can find support for registration and get involved by visiting the event’s official website or connecting via the Relay for Life of Henry and Stark Counties Facebook page.

The event features an inspiring Survivors Lap, an open walk for all participants, and the moving Luminary Ceremony to honor those affected by cancer. Supporters can purchase fundraising luminary bags for $10, floating luminaries for $25, or torch luminaries for $50, which will be displayed throughout the evening. To learn more or to get involved, head to relayforlife.org/henrystarkil. Join neighbors and friends in the fight against cancer and light up the night in support.

A remarkable milestone for the Henry & Stark Counties Relay For Life, as the event has now raised over one million dollars since its first walk in 1999. Organizers and supporters recently celebrated by unveiling a commemorative banner. Leading the local effort are co-chairmen Amy Sternes and Amanda Bickett, joined by American Cancer Society representative Annie Hogan. Proceeds from the relay support cancer research, patient resources, and awareness campaigns. Organizers credit the achievement to years of community participation and steady commitment to the fight against cancer, emphasizing that every donation makes a difference in local and national efforts.

Over 40 years ago, Dr. Gordy Klatt started a movement by circling a Tacoma track for 24 hours, raising $27,000 for cancer research and support. From that personal undertaking, Relay For Life has evolved into a worldwide effort, uniting communities in the fight against cancer. Since 1985, participants and volunteers have raised over $6.9 billion, fueling advances in advocacy, research, and patient care across more than 35 countries. The Relay For Life Hall of Fame now honors those whose dedication and leadership continue to inspire hope, support survivors, and honor the memory of loved ones lost to cancer. Dr. Gordon “Gordy” Klatt was inducted in 1997. He previously battled stomach cancer and passed away from heart failure on August 3, 2014, at the age of 71. 

Katie Laleman from the Henry County Farm Bureau joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the second annual Children's Expo, scholarships, the golf playday fundraiser, land assessment seminars, and Young Leader Kate Huffman. Katie Laleman shared highlights of the second annual Children’s Safety Expo. The event brings families together for demonstrations, giveaways, and learning resources, with support from Senator Neil Anderson and Representative Travis Weaver. Laleman also discussed scholarships for local students, updates on the popular golf playday fundraiser, and upcoming land assessment seminars. In Farm Bureau news, Young Leader Kate Huffman will represent Illinois in the American Farm Bureau competition in January. Community members are encouraged to attend, learn, and celebrate local achievements.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about National Immunization Awareness Month, insurance navigators, reproductive services, mosquitoes, and birth and death certificates. August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are reminding families to keep all vaccinations current, especially as students prepare to return to school. First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon are offering immunizations for both children and adults by appointment. The health departments are also stepping up West Nile virus prevention efforts after positive samples in the area—residents can help by reducing standing water, using repellents, and reporting mosquito breeding sites. Certified birth and death certificates, reproductive services, and free insurance navigation assistance are also available. Visit henrystarkhealth.com for more information.

Sara Billiet from the Kewanee Public Library joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about upcoming events at the Kewanee Public Library. Celebrating 25 years of dedication, Sara Billiet continues to bring excitement to the Kewanee Public Library’s youth programs. Upcoming highlights include a community yoga session with Deb Lindbeck on August 19th, offering a moment of wellness for all skill levels in the 2nd Floor Community Room. Book lovers won’t want to miss the Friends of the Library Hog Days Book Sale on August 30th outside Johnson’s Appliance. Families can embark on a pig-themed scavenger hunt starting August 18th, while crafters are invited to sew a pig mascot on August 21st. Don’t forget the Honey and Health presentation on September 11th, featuring valuable wellness tips.