Regional Media Podcast Network

Russ Hughes and Jennifer Russell brought energy to the Sav-A-Lot Studio on May 2nd for The Boiler Shop segment on Wake Up Tri-Counties. Together, they recapped outstanding moments from local baseball, softball, and track teams. Listeners heard about recent game results, standout athletes, and notable plays that made a difference on the fields. Their coverage provided fans with all the essential highlights, ensuring that everyone stays connected to the progress and spirit of local sports at Kewanee High School.

State Senator Mike Halpin has introduced a measure aimed at strengthening the fight against human trafficking by empowering local authorities. Under Senate Bill 1422, municipalities would gain the power to enforce compliance with human trafficking recognition training at hotels, restaurants, and truck stops, with fines of up to $1,500 per violation. The bill highlights Illinois’ struggle with under-reported trafficking cases, as the Human Trafficking Hotline fielded over 760 signals from the state last year. Advocates and lawmakers emphasize the critical role of hospitality workers in spotting exploitation and supporting prevention efforts. The measure awaits a vote in the House.

Neuro Sleep Center Coordinator Karri Herberg from Hammond-Henry Hospital joined Tom Katz for “Here’s to Your Health” on Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss sleep disorders like sleep apnea. People struggling with sleepless nights may find hope at the Sleep Disorder Center within Hammond-Henry Hospital in Geneseo, Illinois. The center prioritizes comfort, offering patients queen-size beds, fans, and televisions to create a home-like setting. Staff greet patients personally, aiming to ease nerves during sleep studies. The facility employs state-of-the-art monitoring to assess brain activity, breathing, and other vital sleep indicators. Treatments like CPAP therapy can profoundly impact conditions such as sleep apnea. The center’s staff and Dr. Akshay Mahadevia are dedicated to personalized testing and diagnosis. For details, visit the hospital’s website or call 309-944-9290.

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss upcoming OSF HealthCare events. OSF HealthCare Saint Luke is seeking volunteers to support hospital operations, with roles ranging from front desk assistance to patient transport. To get involved, call 309-852-7500 or visit their website for online applications. In partnership with the Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network, OSF Saint Clare is co-hosting a two-day LivingWorks ASIST suicide intervention training on May 8th and 9th, 2025. This workshop is designed to equip participants with vital suicide first-aid skills. Visit here for more information or contact Stefanie Morris at stefanie.morris@osfhealthcare.org. Additionally, OSF Saint Luke and Saint Clare are accepting scholarship applications until May 1, 2025. Students can apply in person or online, taking an important step toward their educational ambitions. To apply for the OSF HealthCare scholarship at OSF Saint Clare, visit here. To apply for the scholarship at OSF Saint Luke, visit here.

Interested students can pick up an application at OSF Saint Luke or request an electronic copy via email from Samantha Rux at samantha.l.harkerrux@osfhealthcare.org. Completed applications must be returned to Samantha Rux via email or mailed to OSF HealthCare Saint Luke Medical Center, 1051 W. South St., Kewanee, IL 61443, by May 1st.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about April events and designations as we close out the month. As April draws to a close, the Henry and Stark County Health Department is highlighting important programs supporting local families. This month is Global Child Nutrition Month, and the WIC Supplemental Food Program is in the spotlight, offering free groceries and nutrition guidance to mothers and children. With the new Illinois WIC EBT Card and expanded clinic hours, access is easier than ever for working families in Henry, Stark, Marshall, and Putnam counties. Health officials are also marking Child Abuse Prevention Month, donning blue and urging community action with the theme “It Takes a Village” to help end child abuse and promote healthier futures for children.

Russ Hughes teamed up with Jennifer Russell in the Sav-A-Lot Studio for the April 25th edition of The Boiler Shop on Wake Up Tri-Counties. The duo touched on highlights from local baseball, softball, and track teams, sharing updates and key performances from the field. Music lovers are in for a treat as the Kewanee Area Community Choir prepares to deliver its highly anticipated spring concert. Performances are scheduled for Sunday, April 27th, at 2 PM, at First United Methodist Church and again on Tuesday, April 29th, at 5:30 PM, at the Kewanee Senior Center. Audiences can expect an engaging variety of hits from beloved musicals, including Annie, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Pocahontas, and Gypsy. Whether you’re a Broadway fan or new to musical theater, these concerts promise uplifting melodies and community spirit.