Regional Media Podcast Network

With fall harvest underway, agricultural workers face increased risks, as the sector remains the most dangerous in the United States, according to new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. To raise awareness, the third week of September has been designated National Farm Safety and Health Week—a tradition dating back to 1944. During this observance, leaders like Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie underscore the dedication of farmers, calling them the backbone of rural communities and the economy. Safety advocates urge extra caution in the fields, emphasizing injury prevention for those working to bring in this year’s harvest.

Todd DeDecker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the 53rd annual Jordbruksdagarna harvest festival, which arrives in Bishop Hill on September 27th and 28th, promising a weekend brimming with heritage and community spirit. The village will transform into a lively hub, featuring traditional craft demonstrations, a range of food vendors, live music, and engaging activities tailored for children. Visitors can also explore historic exhibits scattered throughout Bishop Hill. Every demonstration and display comes at no cost, ensuring the festival remains accessible for all. Organizers invite families, history enthusiasts, and curious newcomers to experience a celebration deeply rooted in agricultural tradition and local culture.

Jordbruksdagarna, Bishop Hill’s annual harvest celebration, returns this year with a rich lineup of activities for all ages. Organized by the Bishop Hill Heritage Association, this family-friendly event highlights Swedish traditions, historic demonstrations, and local crafts. Support comes from community organizations such as the Bishop Hill Agricultural Association, VASA National Archives, and sponsors including the Illinois Arts Council and Nature’s Creations. The event’s success relies on dedicated volunteers, with special help from the Cambridge and Galva FFA chapters and the Galva Boy Scouts. Major media support is proudly provided by Regional Media. Details can be found at www.visitbishophill.com.

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to thank the Kewanee Police, Kewanee Fire, and the Henry County Office of Emergency Management for their participation in the first full-scale drill at OSF Saint Luke on Friday. In honor of National Farm Safety and Health Week, Sam talked about free access to Silver Cloud from OSF HealthCare. Residents in OSF HealthCare-served areas now have free access to SilverCloud, an online mental health platform designed to help adults manage depression, anxiety, and stress. SilverCloud offers up to seven interactive modules featuring mindfulness exercises, journaling, and lifestyle tracking, accessible by phone, tablet, or computer. Programs are tailored for specific needs, including stress reduction, anxiety management, and addressing depression or the combination of depression and anxiety. In response to the ongoing pandemic, a special “Challenging Times” program supports those facing COVID-19-related emotional struggles. Enrollment is open to anyone 18 or older; simply register and request a program online. As fall draws near, health officials are reminding the public that timely vaccinations are key to preventing illness. Families should arrange vaccine appointments for their children, as school-based flu clinics in Kewanee will not be held this year. Adults are also encouraged to keep current with vaccines such as the flu, COVID-19, RSV, and others like hepatitis B and shingles. These shots offer vital protection, especially for older adults, pregnant women, and those with underlying health issues. Talk to your provider about updating immunizations to keep yourself and your community healthy. The flu vaccine is available at OSF Medical Centers, so make an appointment by calling your medical provider or through the OSF MyHealth App. Find more information about seasonal vaccines here.

Patients using OSF HealthCare now have a new tool for managing their medical needs. The My OSF app combines a range of resources, enabling easy access to locations, appointment scheduling, bill payment, and OSF MyChart records, all from a single device. Designed to streamline the health care journey, the platform places essential information just a tap away, aiming to simplify routine tasks like checking test results or planning upcoming visits. The My OSF app is available for download, offering a more efficient, user-friendly way for patients to stay connected to their health care providers and services.

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.