Regional Media Podcast Network

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.

Sam Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about National Preparedness Month and how the OSF HealthCare system prepares its staff, and how you can prepare at home. September marks National Preparedness Month, a time to focus on getting ready for emergencies before disaster strikes. This year’s theme from FEMA’s Ready Campaign, “Preparedness Starts at Home,” spotlights essential steps: know your risks, make a family emergency plan, build an emergency supply kit, and get involved in your community.

With active threats inside hospitals often unfolding within eight minutes, OSF HealthCare Saint Luke Medical Center in Kewanee is taking action to safeguard staff and patients. Since 2016, the 25-bed facility has implemented a series of security upgrades, including increased protection for night-shift employees and training for 43 staff members in de-escalating aggressive behavior. The hospital introduced a workplace violence debrief tool, expanded departmental education, and prioritized thorough documentation of incidents. Backed by a $120,000 investment, these efforts aim to boost preparedness, enhance collaboration with local law enforcement, and foster a safer environment for the community. OSF Medical Centers conduct random drills to keep staff up-to-date on emergency procedures and practices.

Taking a few moments now to pack a go-bag or review Ready.gov’s low-cost preparation tips can pay off when every second counts. Classes in first aid, disaster response, and CPR are also available to help you protect yourself and others. Start today, and help ensure your family and community are prepared. Visit https://www.ready.gov/ for more information and safety tips.

September 15 through 21 is Farm Safety Week in Illinois, highlighting the urgent need for caution in one of the nation’s most hazardous professions. With more than 500 farming-related fatalities occurring annually across the U.S., tractor accidents top the list, alongside grain bin incidents and chemical exposures. Farmers routinely work in challenging environments and face unique risks from machinery, animals, and weather. Public awareness is equally important, as motorists often encounter slow-moving farm vehicles with limited visibility on local roads. The Governor’s proclamation encourages conversations about equipment operation, health practices, and safe behaviors to avert tragedies both on and off the farm. Illinois Representative Dan Swanson, who is also a farmer, talks about farm safety week.