Regional Media Podcast Network

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 Blvd in Kewanee, from 10 AM to 1 PM. Attendees should bring their Medicare or insurance card, or $60 in cash or check. Meanwhile, World Contraception Day, observed on September 26th, highlights the availability of accessible, confidential reproductive health services at First Choice Healthcare locations. September also marks Suicide Prevention Month, with local providers promoting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and offering mental health support for all residents. Call 309-852-5272 for more information.

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 hands-on stations for over 150 high school driver's ed students. Highlights include simulation experiences, equipment tours, and sessions on rail and roadway safety, along with a new focus on teen mental health.

Teen mental health will take center stage at this year’s Drivers Education Share the Road program, thanks to a newly added session led by AgriAbility. Organizers stress the growing pressures faced by teens—balancing academic demands, social challenges, and learning to drive, particularly on unpredictable rural roads. The upcoming event aims to address both physical and mental well-being, providing students with strategies for safer driving and stronger mental health resilience. Farm Bureau advocates say that if just one student leaves the event better equipped to handle stress or make safer choices behind the wheel, the effort has been a success.

The Farm Bureau young leaders are gearing up for their annual “Cram the Cab” food drive this Saturday, November 8th, from 9 AM to 2 PM at the Fairway in Geneseo. Community members are encouraged to stop by, receive a list of needed pantry items, and help fill the cab of a tractor with food donations. The event welcomes both food and cash contributions, with organizers aiming to support local food pantries as the holiday season approaches. Rain, shine, or even snow—volunteers promise to be on site, showing dedication to the cause no matter the weather.

Farm Bureau is gearing up for its next major event, the Market Outlook Seminar featuring Naomi Bloom, scheduled for November 13. Organizers encourage everyone to mark their calendars, as the seminar promises industry insights amidst ongoing harvest activities and various local programs. Membership in Farm Bureau extends well beyond agriculture, with a host of benefits—over 300,000—that cater to travelers, lodging, and much more. Interested individuals are invited to visit the organization’s website or contact the Cambridge office directly for personalized assistance. Farm Bureau’s inclusive approach means you don’t need to be a farmer to join and enjoy these perks.

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, treatment, free condoms, contraceptives, and preventive immunizations for Hepatitis B and HPV. Counseling and partner treatment services are also available, with an emphasis on reducing stigma and empowering informed choices. For flu season, clinics are offering quadrivalent shots with no out-of-pocket costs for those with insurance or Medicare, or $60 cash for others. More information is available by calling each location or visiting henrystarkhealth.com.

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 biscuits and gravy and eggs from 7 to 11 AM, served by Cozzi Ranch, and don't miss the community church service at 10:30 AM. Family fun takes center stage with face painting, a petting zoo, games, karaoke, and a variety of kid-friendly activities. Shoppers will appreciate an impressive array of vendors, ranging from jewelry and baked goods to unique gifts and crafts. Organizers encourage new vendors to join early for smoother planning, though spots remain open up to event time. For details or to reserve a space, contact Peggy Gray at 309-695-6575. There's something for everyone at this community tradition established in 2000. Mark your calendars for a weekend of unforgettable fun.

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 developing future automotive technicians right in their hometown. Gustafson Ford is undergoing a major expansion, converting a neighboring property into a state-of-the-art technology center. The dealership has teamed up with Kewanee High School and Ford Motor Company to create a pipeline for young talent, offering students hands-on training, Ford certification, and an apprenticeship rotation with Parkland College. This effort means students can graduate high school with valuable credentials and a head start on a career—while also supporting local businesses and strengthening the community. With an expanding facility and a dedicated effort to train young, local talent, the program aims to benefit not only the dealership but also the wider business community needing skilled technicians.

Ford Motor Company has brought recognition to the small town of Kewanee, celebrating hometown talent and dedication. Courtney Conley has been honored as a Senior Master Technician, a significant achievement reflecting years of commitment and expertise. Longtime employee Wayne received a special award as he approached retirement, marking the end of his distinguished tenure with the company. These accolades highlight the value Ford places on its employees, especially in tight-knit communities. Residents express a sense of pride and gratitude, feeling fortunate to see local professionals acknowledged on a larger stage for their hard work and loyalty.

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.