Regional Media Podcast Network

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Lyme Disease, West Nile Virus, gun locks, and sharps disposal. Health officials in Henry and Stark counties are urging residents to take extra precautions as the risk of tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease and mosquito-borne West Nile Virus rises with summer activity. The Health Department and First Choice Healthcare, with the support of partner organizations, now offer Lyme disease screenings at clinic locations in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon—most insurance accepted. Mosquito surveillance has detected the season’s first positive West Nile pools locally, prompting advice to reduce standing water, use repellents, and check for ticks after spending time outdoors. Free gun safety locks and sharps disposal drop-offs are also available to protect families. For more information, visit www.henrystarkhealth.org or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Russ Hughes and Jennifer Russell brought energy to the Sav-A-Lot Studio on May 30th for The Boiler Shop segment on Wake Up Tri-Counties. Together, they recapped outstanding moments from local baseball, softball, and track teams. Good luck at State, Kewanee High School Boilermakers.

At the Illinois House of Representatives’ annual Memorial Day tribute, lawmakers solemnly honored state soldiers who died in the past year. State Representative Dan Swanson spoke about the significance of Memorial Day, reflecting on the deep impact these losses have on Gold Star families. Swanson also criticized the Chicago Sky WNBA team for remaining in the locker room during the National Anthem, suggesting their actions failed to honor fallen service members. After facing backlash online, the Sky published a Memorial Day message, but further controversy erupted when fans pointed out the team appeared to confuse Memorial Day with Veterans Day in their tribute.

Illinois is gearing up for a historic celebration. The state House has adopted Senate Joint Resolution 12, led by Representative Dennis Tipsword, officially declaring 2026 as the Illinois Route 66 Centennial Year. The resolution encourages communities, historical societies, and state agencies to plan commemorative events and educational programs throughout the year. The intention is to honor and raise awareness about the rich cultural legacy of the "Mother Road," which played a significant role in both local and national history. Organizers hope the centennial will inspire renewed appreciation for Route 66 and boost tourism across Illinois.