Galesburg's Morning News

Galesburg City Manager Eric Hanson joined Galesburg's Morning News on Monday, Aug. 17, ahead of tonight's 6 p.m. city council meeting at Galesburg City Hall, previewing a full agenda: a state grant application for Lincoln Park upgrades, next steps on the Standish Park redesign, and a development deal with ILPEA Industries. Hanson said the ILPEA agreement is designed to retain and grow jobs at the Galesburg facility, characterizing the deal as favorable to Galesburg over the company's South Carolina operations. He talked about: Why the city is applying for an OSLAD grant to overhaul Lincoln Park's 30-year-old playground and add a splash pad A new Purington paver sign at Dale Kelley Park — and the story behind the park's name that a commemorative plaque will soon tell The ILPEA Industries deal, and how Hanson describes it as a win for Galesburg's facility over the company's South Carolina operations Next steps on the $2 million Standish Park redesign, and how the project protects the historic arboretum What his team is working on outside tonight's agenda, including the city's internal budget season Click here to view the full agenda.   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Carl Sandburg College President Seamus Reilly joined Galesburg's Morning News in the WGIL studio on Friday, Aug. 14, ahead of a big stretch for the Galesburg college: fall semester begins Aug. 24, and a ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Charger Center is set for 4 p.m. Aug. 27 on the Galesburg campus. The 70,204-square-foot building will house two wood-floor gymnasiums and a third gym with multi-purpose flooring, plus fitness and training areas, a golf simulator room and an esports arena — with room for more than 3,500 people at a time, enough to host regional conferences and expos. Outside, the college is adding turf fields for baseball, softball and soccer. Designed by Legat Architects and expected to open in late 2027, it replaces a gym that's served the Chargers since 1978. He talked about: What's going inside the 70,000-square-foot Charger Center, and how a bond issuance is funding it without changing the college's tax rate Why enrollment is up about 7%, and the share of the district's 108,000 residents Reilly wants Sandburg reaching every year Charge Forward, the program that puts adult students in class one night a week and guarantees a degree in two years Earn as You Learn, a new grant paying returning adult students up to $4,000 — and the $500 figure that inspired it Why roughly 87% of Sandburg instruction is still face-to-face The Galesburg and Sampson Promise programs, and why 9 in 10 Sandburg graduates finish without student loan debt The 518 Collective, the agriculture technology incubator coming to downtown Galesburg What Reilly is proudest of, nine years into the job   Related story: "If you don't grow, you die": Sandburg's president on the college at 60 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Comedian Tom Briscoe called into Galesburg's Morning News from the Queen Mary, somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic, to preview his stand-up show "Old Mansplaining," coming to the Historic Orpheum Theatre Saturday, Aug. 22, at 7:30 p.m. Briscoe, a cruise ship comedy veteran who's performed in over 100 countries, built the show around the generational disconnect between himself and younger audiences — and insists it's not what it sounds like. Tom Briscoe joined Galesburg's Morning News on Thursday, Aug. 13. Listen to the full interview above. They talked about: What "Old Mansplaining" actually means, and why it's not about gender The secret to a 41-year marriage Getting banned from roughly 14 of the 100-plus countries he's performed in How he stumbled into comedy at 35 after years working in corporate health and transportation What audiences can expect on Aug. 22 — plus a local preview from Orpheum Executive Director Andrew Driscoll Need tickets? Visit galesburgorpheum.org.   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Galesburg Heritage Days turns 31 this year, running Friday through Sunday, Aug. 14-16, at Lake Storey Park in Galesburg. Organizers Dave Bernhart and Mark Ebner joined Galesburg's Morning News on Thursday to preview the free, family-friendly event. Nearly 1,000 reenactors and about 50 merchants are expected across two side-by-side venues — a pre-1840 Rendezvous and a Civil War encampment. They talked about: Why running two separate living-history venues on the same weekend is so rare How this year's event ties into the 250th anniversary of the United States A descendant of Civil War nurse Mary Bickerdyke traveling from Florida to trace his family history in Galesburg Highlights at both the Civil War camp and the Rendezvous, including a "chat" with General Robert E. Lee and the candy cannon Hours, parking and how to get around between the two venues Visit the Galesburg Heritage Days website.   Related story: Nearly 1,000 reenactors head to Galesburg for Heritage Days' 31st year 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Galesburg District 205 students head back to class Wednesday — and Superintendent John Asplund has answers for the questions parents actually ask, from why the year now starts in early August to what it really costs to send a child to district schools (spoiler: not much). Asplund joined Galesburg's Morning News for a wide-ranging conversation that also covered the district's $65 million reserve fund, a change to student eligibility rules, and more. They talked about: Why school now starts in early August — and the surprising reason behind it A breakdown of this year's calendar, including fall break and a shot at four-day weeks in May What it actually costs parents to send a child to District 205 schools A change to the "no pass, no play" eligibility rule Why enrollment continues to decline, and where Asplund sees early signs of a turnaround New video boards at Van Dyke Field and John Thiel Gym What Asplund would tell the next superintendent about taking over the job   Related story: What parents need to know about District 205's 2026-27 school year 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Al Williams, a member of Galesburg High School's 1957 Elite 8 basketball team, first faced Don Nelson at a jump ball circle. Nelson played at rival Rock Island High School when the two squared off as seniors. Williams remembers finally beating Nelson to the tip his senior year and telling him, "Gotcha, didn't I?" — Nelson didn't say a word back. Nelson, who went on to star at the University of Iowa and for the Boston Celtics before becoming a Hall of Fame NBA coach, died Sunday at 86. Al Williams joined WGIL's Jay Redfern on Monday, Aug. 10. Listen to the full interview below. They talked about: How Nelson used his size to win jump balls — and how Williams finally got him back The stalling strategy that helped Galesburg upset Rock Island 23-21 What kind of player and person Nelson was, on and off the court Staying in touch with Nelson over the decades that followed Whether Williams saw Nelson's coaching career coming   Related story: 'Gotcha, didn't I?': Former Streak Al Williams remembers Don Nelson 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

A photo found in the basement of a downtown Galesburg store is now a 5-by-8-foot mural hanging at Discovery Depot Children's Museum, 128 S. Chambers St. Denise Gerstenberger, the museum's executive director; her husband Steve Gerstenberger, a longtime board member; and Galesburg artist Dusty Scott joined Galesburg's Morning News on Monday, Aug. 10, to talk about the mural, commissioned to mark Discovery Depot's 30th anniversary. They talked about: The building's history as a Meadow Gold Dairy, and what's still preserved from that era today How a 2013 basement discovery turned into a museum centerpiece Dusty Scott's process for finishing an incomplete, decades-old photograph Why the mural is painted in sepia tone instead of black and white How Scott's daughter, Lucy, contributed her own section of the painting   Related story: A basement photo becomes a mural — the story behind Discovery Depot's newest piece 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

"A vibrant downtown is absolutely like having a healthy heart." That's how Phil Dickinson, chair of the Galesburg Downtown Council's Facade Committee, summed up why Galesburg has spent nearly two decades funding facade improvements downtown. Dickinson, Downtown Council board president Bob Bondi, and Steve Gugliotta, the city's director of community development, joined Galesburg's Morning News on Friday, Aug. 7, to explain how two separate grant programs work together to fund projects across downtown. They talked about: How the city's program and the Downtown Council's program differ, and how property owners can use both Where the money actually comes from, including a tax downtown property owners agreed to pay themselves The current facade work underway at the Weinberg Arcade building Decades of past projects, from the Bondi Building's restored 1928 doors to the Orange Cup Sidecar Why free downtown parking took 15 years to achieve What it will take to keep downtown Galesburg thriving over the next decade   Related story: The plan to keep downtown Galesburg thriving, and the grants behind it 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

"Please come out. We are looking for everybody to come out in the community. If you need a backpack or not, just come out and just be among your neighbors." That's Pam Davidson, president of the Galesburg NAACP, previewing the organization's 18th annual Back to School Community Cookout, set for Saturday, Aug. 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kiwanis Park, 2191 E. Knox St. in Galesburg. She talked about: Why the cookout—which features grilled hotdogs and burgers—has run every year for nearly two decades, timed to the weekend before school starts How more than 250 backpacks and school supplies get distributed each year The volunteers who make it happen, including the Galesburg High School football team and Carl Sandburg College students What's planned for the day, from free haircuts to a splash pad and mobile entertainment unit Why Davidson says the event is open to everyone in the community, not just families in need   Related story: NAACP's Back to School Cookout returns for 18th year with backpacks, haircuts, and food 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

"You really can come and spend $0 and have a fantastic time." That's how Nikki Malley, owner of Malley Farms, describes First Fridays on Seminary Street — the free, family-friendly street party returning to downtown Galesburg this Friday, Aug. 7, from 5 to 8 p.m. Malley and Candace D'Agnolo, owner of Dante & Dory's Pet Emporium, joined Galesburg's Morning News to preview the night, which features Soul Situation, a seven-piece soul and funk band making its first-ever Galesburg appearance. They talked about: Why Soul Situation's Galesburg debut is one of the bigger musical draws First Fridays has booked The DIY flower windmill activity Discovery Depot is running for kids Which restaurants are bringing bite-sized specials to the street this month How stores across Seminary Street stay open late with their own specials and samples for the night — Malley Farms and Dante & Dory's among them A first look at the Sept. 4 season finale, featuring Pippi and Daniel Music with the Experience Band   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts

Galesburg Police Chief Kevin Legate joined Galesburg's Morning News live in studio on Monday, Aug. 3, 2026, to preview National Night Out, a free community event set for Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Standish Park, 42 W. Tompkins St. in Galesburg. Now in its sixth year locally, the event brings together the Galesburg Police and Fire departments, the Knox County Sheriff's Office, and more than 30 community groups for an evening built around building trust between residents and first responders. They talked about: Why Legate says most people's only interactions with police happen during "the worst moment of their life" How the event has grown from a hand-drawn map and free hot dogs in 2021 to more than 30 vendors last year Why building trust with kids early matters so much to the department Who's going in the dunk tank this year, and who's staying dry The new bike giveaway from Galesburg Gives, and what food will be on hand   Related story: 'You don't want your only interaction with police to be the worst moment of your life' 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Spotify

Galesburg City Manager Eric Hanson joined Galesburg's Morning News live in studio on Monday, Aug. 3, 2026, to preview this evening's Galesburg City Council meeting, the first of two sessions this August, set for 6 p.m. at City Hall. Council's agenda  includes an inducement resolution for a new TIF district along South Henderson Street, an engineering agreement for two new PFAS-free wells in Oquawka, final reading of a private parking lot maintenance ordinance, and approval for a live K-Pop entertainment event at Lake Storey Pavilion later this month. They talked about: Why the city is racing to get ahead of a federal PFAS deadline years in advance How a Tax Increment Financing district could reshape South Henderson Street A K-Pop show, packed disc golf trails, and 5:45 a.m. pickleball games The parking lot maintenance ordinance up for final reading A $50 million logistics park deal Hanson expects before Council this fall   Related story: City Matters: New wells aim to keep Galesburg ahead of federal PFAS deadline 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Spotify

Asked what he'd say today to the coach who shaped his life, Jim Reinebach didn't hesitate: "I'd probably say thank you. He treated us well." Reinebach, a 1969 Galesburg High School graduate and Galesburg Athletic Hall of Famer, joined Galesburg's Morning News live in studio on Friday, July 31, 2026, while back in Galesburg for his class reunion — his first trip back since 2012. He played under legendary coach John Thiel during the Silver Streaks' basketball glory years of the 1960s, helping lead Galesburg to the 1968 state finals and a historic upset of eventual state champion Proviso East in 1969, before playing college basketball at Iowa State and spending most of his life as a pastor. They talked about: What it was like moving to Galesburg in 1964, right into the peak of its basketball fever Coach John Thiel's "businesslike," no-profanity approach, and what he meant to Reinebach's life The Quincy supersectional overtime thriller that sent Galesburg to state in 1968 The upset over eventual state champion Proviso East in 1969 — "probably the greatest win" His college recruitment, playing at Iowa State, and a near-upset of a Final Four Kansas team His decades-long path into ministry, and what he'd tell a young Galesburg athlete today   Related story: 'I'd probably say thank you': Reinebach on what he'd tell Coach Thiel today 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Spotify

Musicians Pippi Ardennia and Daniel Leahy, who perform together as Pippi & Daniel Music, join a 10-piece group called The Experience Band this Sunday, Aug. 2, at 2 p.m., for a benefit concert at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in downtown Galesburg. The show, called "It's Never Too Late," is a fundraiser for the Orpheum's Gift of Performance initiative, which uses ticket sales to fund seats for local nonprofit clients who might not otherwise get to experience live theater. Tickets are a minimum $20 donation. Pippi Ardennia and Daniel Leahy joined Galesburg's Morning News on Thursday, July 30, 2026, ahead of Sunday's show. Listen to the full interview above. They talked about: How a $20 ticket to Sunday's show sends someone else to a future Orpheum performance The 10-piece band behind Sunday's "It's Never Too Late" theme Their all-time musical idols, from Diana Ross to Oscar Peterson A family milestone: their 7-year-old grandson Easton's stage debut, and the secret song he's kept even from us   Related story: Pippi and Daniel preview Sunday's Orpheum benefit show 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Spotify

UPDATE, July 30: This event has been postponed. The Maple City Street Machines Cruise-In has been moved from Friday, July 31 to Friday, Aug. 7, due to concerns over potential lightning. Details below reflect the original preview; the new date carries the same 4 to 8 p.m. hours in downtown Monmouth. Read the full update here. A car show that started with 50 cars now draws 3,500 of them, plus 30,000 people, to downtown Monmouth every summer. Organizers Kenny Tatman and Mike McCormick stopped by to preview Friday's 27th annual Maple City Street Machines Cruise-In, including a visit from the flower-covered Mystery Machine van from "Scooby-Doo," on loan from Chicago's Volo Museum. Kenny Tatman and Mike McCormick joined Galesburg's Morning News on Wednesday, July 29, 2026. Listen to the full interview above. They talked about: How the show grew from 50 cars to 3,500 in 27 years This year's star attraction, on loan from the Volo Museum The million-dollar cars that show up thanks to a Saturday connection Where to park and what to expect if you show up early What happens to the show if it rains   Related story: Organizers preview 27th Maple City Street Machines Cruise-In 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Spotify

Picture a commercial kitchen where a caterer can stage a wedding dinner, a home baker can get certified to sell her bread, and Sunday brunch becomes a standing invitation for the whole town. That's the Kitchen Collective, a shared incubator kitchen taking shape at the Galesburg Community Arts Center, led by executive director Tuesday Çetin alongside Angelica Mangieri, founder of CommunityGro. Built to give food entrepreneurs, caterers, and a new members-only social club called the Art of Nourishment a permanent home, the shell is already standing. What's missing is $75,000. Tuesday Çetin and Angelica Mangieri joined Galesburg's Morning News on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. Listen to the full interview below. They talked about: How a temporary pandemic feeding program turned into a six-year partnership Why emergency food assistance wasn't enough to fix the real problem Who actually gets to use the Kitchen Collective once it's finished The $75,000 still standing between "shell" and "open" What success looks like five and ten years from now A shoutout to CommunityGro's cardboard boat race this August   Related story: Galesburg nonprofits need $75,000 to finish a shared community kitchen 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Spotify  

He has run a city on a $3 million budget a quarter mile from the Oklahoma line. He has seen asbestos concrete water lines and once ran into a town with bamboo pipes. Four states and more than a decade later, Lou Leone took the Monmouth city administrator job because the mayor, the council and the residents all told him the same thing during the interview, and he had learned not to take that for granted: "In my field, if you're not growing, you're dying." Lou Leone joined Galesburg's Morning News on Monday, July 27, 2026. Listen to the full interview above. He talked about: The one thing under Monmouth that actually surprised him How he plans to hear from residents who never set foot in City Hall The nine acres that could turn into 23 houses, and the vote that decides it Where he draws the line on spending taxpayer money to attract business The three things that will tell him his first year went well What he tries first in every new town he moves to   Related story: 'If you're not growing, you're dying,' Monmouth's new city administrator says 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Spotify

There's fruit growing all over Galesburg that most people never notice — and most of it just falls to the ground and rots. That's part of what CommunityGro is working to change, and it's also the spirit behind the group's Summer Social, coming to Lake Storey Pavilion on Sunday, Aug. 9. Michelle Kim and John Simkins joined Galesburg's Morning News on Friday, July 24. Listen to the full interview below. Kim and Simkins walked through what CommunityGro actually does — connecting Galesburg residents with community gardens, orchards, and free food resources around the city — and what's coming to Lake Storey this August. The event's cardboard boat race breaks down into three ways to place, so a boat doesn't have to be fast to win something. There's also a sidewalk chalk competition open to everyone from kids to working artists, a farmers market, food trucks, and a very specific volunteer need: a certified lifeguard. Related story: CommunityGro's Summer Social brings cardboard boat race, chalk art to Lake Storey 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Twenty-four hot air balloons fill Lake Storey Park this weekend for the Great Balloon Race, and organizer Greg Saul stopped by to walk through what's planned. Greg Saul joined Galesburg's Morning News on Wednesday, July 22. Listen to the full interview above. They talked about: The weekend's launch and night glow schedule The ghost balloon making its return this year, and why it looks a little familiar The wind and lightning rules that decide whether anything flies at all Saturday night's golf ball drop and 50/50 raffle What it actually feels like to fly, from a pilot with 37 years of experience How to volunteer, and what it takes to keep 24 balloons and 19 committee members organized every summer   Related story: Great Balloon Race returns to Galesburg with 24 balloons, free admission 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Three years after losing the man they call "the Rock of GYAC," the leaders of Galesburg Youth Athletic Club are still finding their footing — and they're not slowing down. Rich Norton, Jeff Hoschek, and Terrence Gregory joined Galesburg's Morning News on Tuesday, July 21. Listen to the full interview above. They talked about: How Carlos Duncan's original mission still guides the club today What it's really like to run a nonprofit boxing gym on volunteers alone A memorial outside the gym that keeps their founder close Why the club's Teen Court partnership matters more than any trophy What it costs a family to get a kid in the ring — and what happens when they can't afford it Details on GYAC's amateur boxing event this September   Related story: Galesburg Youth Athletic Club sets Sept. 12 boxing event, looks to grow volunteer base 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

For years, Ohio Avenue near the East Main Street Hy-Vee has only run one way. That could be about to change. City Manager Eric Hanson joined Galesburg's Morning News to explain why demolishing one derelict building might finally reopen the street both directions — plus what else is on tonight's City Council agenda, from a clean financial audit to a new transit partnership reaching rural Knox County for the first time. Eric Hanson joined Galesburg's Morning News on Monday, July 20, 2026. Listen to the full interview above. They talked about: Why the city's newest clean audit opinion matters The complaint pattern behind the new private parking lot ordinance A demolition project that could finally reopen Ohio Avenue to two-way traffic Two Main Street façade grants moving forward downtown A new countywide transit partnership reaching rural Knox County for the first time What's next for All Stars Sports Academy's East Knox Street building   Related story: Audit, parking lot rules and a transit deal highlight Monday's council agenda 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

You've probably seen the headlines about a stomach bug spreading across the country, with salad greens under suspicion. So has it reached Knox County? Wil Hayes and Tammy Nelson of the Knox County Health Department came in with the local answer — and a few surprises, including why the vinegar wash in your kitchen does nothing, why freezing won't save you, and the one food-safety rule that matters most at your next backyard cookout. Wil Hayes and Tammy Nelson joined Galesburg's Morning News on Thursday, July 16. Listen to the full interview above. They talked about: Whether Knox County has any cyclosporiasis cases What the parasite actually is, and how it spreads Why "pre-washed" bagged greens still need washing The vinegar myth, and what actually kills the parasite Why dehydration, not the illness itself, lands people in the hospital The two-hour rule and how vendors get inspected at Taste of Galesburg   Related story: No cyclosporiasis cases in Knox County, but health officials say wash your greens 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Two summers ago, Shawn Hickey walked into his first day as Galesburg's football coach and counted 38 kids. This June, 80 showed up — and unlike last year's summer mirage of 120 that shrank to 60 by kickoff, the coach says these numbers are real. Now he has to get them all through a brand-new state eligibility rule, with the earliest season start in Illinois history bearing down. His pitch to Galesburg is simple: Friday nights at CBI Bank Stadium are "the best ticket in town." Shawn Hickey joined Galesburg's Morning News on Wednesday, July 15. Listen to the full interview above. They talked about: Why last summer's roster numbers fooled him, and this year's won't The new 12-day rule that could bench players for the opener The Week 4 hole in the schedule, and the road trip nobody wants to repeat Speed school, junior high pipelines, and coaching as "surrogate fathers" Camps for the young kids and a discount card deadline this Friday   Related story: From 38 players to 80: Galesburg football's roster doubles as earliest season ever nears 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Phil Dickinson was there for the first Taste of Galesburg — eight or 10 restaurants sweating it out behind the high school — and he fought hard against the move to Thursday nights that made the event what it is. "The first year I got slapped in the face hard with the reality of I didn't know what I was doing," he admits. "I was wrong." Forty years later, he and lead organizer Kraig Boynton preview the biggest Taste ever, and Boynton reveals this one will be his last in charge. Kraig Boynton and Phil Dickinson joined Galesburg's Morning News on Tuesday, July 14. Listen to the full interview above. They talked about: The record 28 restaurants and why participation doubled this year A bratwurst made of bison and elk, and the other dishes pushing the envelope The footprint stretching from Seminary almost to Prairie for the first time Why the days of judges tasting all 144 items are over Boynton stepping away, and who might take the reins Veteran tips, starting with the simplest: don't eat lunch Menus: Visit Taste of Galesburg on Facebook   Related story: 'Watching thousands of your neighbors catch up': Taste of Galesburg turns 40 Thursday 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Bob Hope took him on USO tours. Ray Charles once held his hands mid-juggle just to feel the rhythm. Fifty years into a career that has already cost him his eyebrows, world champion juggler Mark Nizer brings his high-tech show 4D to the Historic Orpheum Theatre July 25 — and he says the audience "might need counseling afterwards." Mark Nizer joined Galesburg's Morning News on Monday, July 13, 2026, ahead of his show 4D, coming to the Historic Orpheum Theatre July 25. Listen to the full interview above. They talked about: What actually makes a show "4D" — and why the audience needs those glasses The mentors who shaped his career, from Bob Hope to Ray Charles to Buzz Aldrin How a malfunctioning lighter cost him his eyebrows, on stage, mid-show Why the show works for grandparents and grandkids sitting side by side Ticket details for the July 25 show at the Orpheum   Mark Nizer's 4D plays the Historic Orpheum Theatre in downtown Galesburg Saturday, July 25 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20, or four for $60 with the Me+3 deal, at GalesburgOrpheum.org or by calling (309) 342-2299, Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

The stage floor is cement, so don't expect a trap door — but Prairie Players Civic Theatre found other ways to make the magic happen. Allie Bryan, Connor Atwell, Lorie Larsen, and director Kenny Knox joined Galesburg's Morning News ahead of the July 17 opening of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella. They talked about: Why this version of Cinderella is closer to the original fairy tale than the Disney film The intimate "box theater" setting, and how it puts the audience right in the middle of the action How the cast pulls off costume transformations on stage without a traditional trap door Allie's return to musical theater after several years away, and the challenge of learning the waltz Prairie Players' upcoming "A Night of One Acts" this September   Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella runs July 17, 18, 24, and 25 at 7:30 p.m., with matinees July 19 and 26 at 2 p.m., at Prairie Players Civic Theatre, 160 S. Seminary St., Galesburg. Tickets are available at prairieplayers.com. 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

A stage that's been dark since 1934 is putting on a show again. Fran Moore of the Altona Historical Society and Tim Holmes of the Galesburg Performing Arts Academy joined Galesburg's Morning News on Thursday, July 9, to talk about the restored Ransom Memorial Library Hall and the free Oklahoma! Youth Edition performance marking its reopening. They talked about: The restoration of Ransom Memorial Library Hall, and why the project grew from a simple museum into a full community center The unexpected challenge that means the hall's new elevator won't be working for Saturday's reopening How more than $500,000 in restoration costs came entirely from community support Why Oklahoma! Youth Edition was chosen for the reopening performance What else is happening around Altona Day, including a parade, softball, and fireworks   Related story: After 92 years, Altona's historic stage hosts a show again 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

United Way is matching every dollar raised by this year's Taste of Galesburg raffle, up to $5,000, and sending all of it straight to Riverbend Food Bank. Jeannie Weber, Anthony Law, and Pippi Ardennia joined Galesburg's Morning News on Wednesday, July 8, to talk about it. Listen to the full interview below. They talked about: This year's Taste of Galesburg raffle prizes, and why winners no longer need to be present How to buy raffle tickets in advance, plus two separate bonus prize drawings United Way's merger and expansion into Knox, Henderson, and Mercer counties The 211 crisis line and Imagination Library literacy program What to expect from Pippi Ardennia's performance at this year's Taste   Related story: United Way raffle at Taste of Galesburg to benefit Riverbend Food Bank 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Orly KG, founder of Bad Momz of Comedy, joined Galesburg's Morning News on Tuesday, July 7, ahead of Saturday's show at The Orpheum. Listen to the full interview above. Orly KG founded Bad Momz of Comedy in 2022 after a career as a TV news reporter and 15 years running her own public relations firm. What started as a search for something to do once her kids became teenagers has grown into a touring comedy brand with more than 80 female comics nationwide, featured on NBC's Kelly Clarkson Show. Saturday's Galesburg show features a four-comic lineup, including Orly KG, ahead of what she calls a "no drama allowed" green room culture built around supporting each other rather than competing. Orly KG talked with WGIL's Tyler Gumm and Jay Redfern about: What to expect from Saturday's R-rated, 18-and-over show How a mom of two ended up doing stand-up comedy in her 40s The "no drama allowed" culture backstage with the Bad Momz of Comedy lineup Her comedy influences, including Phyllis Diller, Joan Rivers, Carol Burnett, and her own mother What she's expecting from a historic venue like The Orpheum   Bad Momz of Comedy performs Saturday, July 11 at 7:30 p.m. at The Orpheum Theatre in Galesburg. Tickets are available at GalesburgOrpheum.org or by calling (309) 342-2299. 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

The 2026 Knox County Fair Queens joined Galesburg's Morning News on Monday, July 6, 2026 — opening day of the 175th Knox County Fair. Lillian Rogers of Gilson was crowned Miss Knox County Fair Queen, Mila Nolan of Knoxville was crowned Junior Miss Knox County Fair Queen, and Ensley Ball of Knoxville was crowned Little Miss Knox County Fair Queen — all at The Orpheum Theatre on June 27. Topics covered in this interview include: What it felt like when their names were called at The Orpheum Lillian's goal of becoming a criminal investigator Mila's small business and love of competitive cheer and volleyball Ensley's favorite ride at the fair Must-have fair food — all three queens weigh in The 175th Knox County Fair runs July 6 through July 11 at the Knox County Fairgrounds in Knoxville. Read the full pageant results: 2026 Knox County Fair Queens — full results For the full 175th Knox County Fair preview, visit our fair preview story. For schedules and tickets, visit knoxfair.com. 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts Spotify  

The Galesburg Orpheum Theatre just hit a major financial milestone — and the momentum doesn't stop there. A new season goes on sale Tuesday, a summer comedy lineup kicks off in less than two weeks, and a long-term renovation study is now in motion. Orpheum Executive Director Andrew Driscoll joined Galesburg's Morning News on Wednesday, July 2, to share all of it. Topics covered in this interview include: The $200,000 DCEO Tourism Grant and how the match was achieved The role of David and Marie Volkers in pushing the campaign over the finish line Phase 1: LED lighting upgrade targeted for September Phase 2: Concept design study with DLR Group — the firm behind the Coronado renovation in Rockford Why fundraising continues through July 31 Four-show packages available now — why to buy before July 7 Individual tickets on sale July 7 at 10 a.m. for 2026 shows Season highlights — Don Jovi, Robert Townsend, Rumors, Midtown Men, and more Summer Comedy Series — Bad Momz of Comedy, Mark Nizer 4D, Dueling Pianos, Tom Briscoe The Gift of Performance, Power of Community program   Individual tickets for the 2026-27 season go on sale Tuesday, July 7, at 10 a.m. The Summer Comedy Series opens July 11. For tickets and information, visit GalesburgOrpheum.org or call (309) 342-2299. Read our full story: Orpheum Theatre meets $100,000 match, kicks off new season and summer comedy series 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Nikki Malley, owner of Malley Farms, joined Galesburg's Morning News on Tuesday, June 30, to preview Friday's First Fridays on Historic Seminary Street. First Fridays returns Friday, July 3, from 5 to 8 p.m. on Seminary Street in downtown Galesburg, giving the community a head start on the Fourth of July weekend. The headline act is the return of Frank F. Sydney's Western Bandit Volunteers, a beloved local bluegrass and folk group making their comeback after roughly two years away. "This is kind of their redebut for the Galesburg community," Malley said. The Galesburg Community Arts Center will handle hands-on children's activities for all ages. Restaurants along Seminary Street will offer sample-sized portions of their menu favorites, along with drink specials, while shops stay open until 8 p.m. for evening shopping. OSF St. Mary Medical Center is July's event sponsor, with Euclid Beverage providing beverage sponsorship. Malley also previewed the rest of the First Fridays season — Soul Situation, a Peoria-based soul, R&B, and funk band, on Aug. 7, and the return of the Pippi and Daniel Music and the Experience to close the season on Sept. 4. First Fridays is free and family-friendly. Bring a lawn chair. 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts Spotify  

Justin Thomas of J&M Displays joined Galesburg's Morning News on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, to preview Saturday's Big Bang BOOM — the area's largest Fourth of July fireworks display, returning to Lake Storey Park in Galesburg. This year's show marks America's 250th birthday. Topics covered in this interview include: How America's 250th birthday shaped this year's show Why blue is the hardest color to produce in fireworks What makes Lake Storey Park an ideal site for a fireworks display The setup process — six to eight crew members working all day How the show is synchronized to a live soundtrack A fan-favorite effect returning to the show this year How heat and humidity affect a fireworks display J&M Displays' massive holiday workload — up to 600 shows nationwide Tips for getting the most out of Saturday's show   Big Bang BOOM is Saturday, July 4, at Lake Storey Park in Galesburg. Free admission. The synchronized soundtrack broadcasts on Z 106.1 FM and 92.7 FM The Laser. Read our full story: Big Bang BOOM 2026 — full preview 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Pro wrestling is coming to Galesburg on the Fourth of July — and the Knox County YMCA is about to open something the community has never had before. Blake Benedict, co-owner of Reserve Artisan Ales, and Adam Sampson, executive director of the Knox County YMCA, joined Galesburg's Morning News on Monday, June 29, 2026, to talk about both. Topics covered in this interview include: How pro wrestling and Reserve Artisan Ales ended up together The Rumble at Reserve format — traditional matches plus a Royal Rumble finale The wrestler lineup — AEW, NWA, regional champions from Kentucky and Tennessee, and a Milwaukee group Live entrance music by The Ex-Bombers Speed-round trivia and photos with wrestlers after the show The Piledriver Pilsner special release How the YMCA and MSI partnership came together The new indoor playground and teen center — and why Sampson calls it a regional draw The YMCA's food program — 3,000 meals a month to Knox County kids Target ribbon cutting date: July 21   Rumble at Reserve is Saturday, July 4. Doors open at 4 p.m., wrestling at 5 p.m. Free admission. All donations benefit the Knox County YMCA. Read our full story: Rumble at Reserve brings pro wrestling to Galesburg on July 4 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Mary McGunnigal has lived in Galesburg since 1979. A few years ago, she started helping her daughter navigate an Ancestry.com subscription — and ended up tracing her family line all the way back to 1620 and the Mayflower. McGunnigal joined Galesburg's Morning News on Friday, June 26, 2026, to share the story of her discovery and offer tips for anyone who wants to try genealogy research themselves. Topics covered in this interview include: How a daughter's DNA test started a genealogy rabbit hole Using family paperwork from the 1980s to verify an online family tree The moment a photo of Plymouth Rock appeared on the screen How census records turned names on paper into real people Who the Puritans were and why they sailed for America What the Mayflower connection means personally The surprising family connections to Gail Borden and Lizzie Borden Tips for beginners — free resources and where to start   Key genealogy resources mentioned: Ancestry.com FamilySearch.org (free) FindaGrave.com (free)   Read the full story: A Galesburg woman's genealogy rabbit hole led to the Mayflower — and Lizzie Borden 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Michael Bennett, executive director of VNA Community Services, joined Galesburg's Morning News on Thursday, June 25, 2026, to preview Saturday's Rays & Graze festival and discuss the agency's work supporting Knox County seniors. VNA Community Services has delivered more than 280,000 meals to Knox County seniors since 2020 and is on track to serve more than 45,000 meals this year through its Home Delivered Meals program. Topics covered in this interview include: What VNA Community Services does — and why the need is growing The Home Delivered Meals program — 280,000 meals since 2020 The senior center at 2262 Grand Ave. — free fitness facility and congregate meals Rays & Graze festival details — Saturday, June 27, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Thrive Community Services Seven food trucks, live music, family activities, and 12 nonprofit resource booths The Sunshine for Seniors campaign and local business partnerships How local donations unlock federal funding — $7 for every $1 raised The inaugural Shirley Chu Community Beacon Award   Rays & Graze is Saturday, June 27, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Thrive Community Services, 2015 Windish Drive in Galesburg. Free admission. Read our full story: Free festival Saturday supports Knox County seniors — VNA Community Services hosts Rays & Graze 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Amber Bowcott, senior walk manager at the Alzheimer's Association, and Shirley Chu, owner of Tres Cafe, joined Galesburg's Morning News on Thursday, June 25, 2026. Bowcott discussed free local resources available to Knox County residents affected by Alzheimer's and dementia, including a monthly support group in Galesburg, care consultations, and a 24/7 helpline. She also shared updates on research breakthroughs — including two FDA-approved drugs that now slow disease progression. Topics covered in this interview include: The difference between Alzheimer's and dementia — and why it matters Warning signs families should watch for Common misconceptions about who gets dementia Free local resources in Galesburg — support group, education programs, care consultations Two FDA-approved drugs now slowing disease progression The Walk to End Alzheimer's — Saturday, Sept. 26, at Lake Storey Park Shirley Chu on how dementia has touched her customers at Tres Cafe Tres Cafe's chicken and noodle benefit dinner — Friday, June 26, 4–8 p.m., 1135 Lincoln St. For free local resources or to register for the walk, visit alz.org or call the 24/7 helpline at 1-800-272-3900. Read our full story: One in nine people may have dementia — Galesburg's Alzheimer's Association offers free local support 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Julie King, executive director of the National Railroad Hall of Fame and one of the key organizers of Railroad Days, joined Galesburg's Morning News on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. King previewed the 48th annual Railroad Days festival, running Thursday, June 25, through Sunday, June 28, in downtown Galesburg. She also shared the latest on construction of the National Railroad Hall of Fame visitor center, located south of the Amtrak depot. Topics covered in this interview include: Why Railroad Days matters to Galesburg's identity — now in its 48th year The Wilson Family Carnival, opening Thursday at City Square The Choo Choo & Brew kickoff Friday evening at the Galesburg Community Arts Center — free admission, local beer, and a photography exhibit BNSF Rail Yard tours Friday and Saturday — and why tickets sell out fast The BNSF wheel change demonstration, Mini-Mac rides, trolley rides, and the Santa Fe War Bonnet locomotive on display The Model Train Show at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Fremont Street — Saturday only Live music Saturday: Even Steven in the afternoon and Neon Nova in the evening on Main Street Construction milestones at the National Railroad Hall of Fame visitor center — helical piers complete, concrete pour set for July 6 Exhibit production underway with BRC Imagination Arts of Burbank, California A late spring opening targeted — potentially in time for Railroad Days 2027 For the full Railroad Days schedule, visit galesburgrailroaddays.net. Read our full Railroad Days preview story: Railroad Days 2026 — full preview Read our full National Railroad Hall of Fame construction update: National Railroad Hall of Fame visitor center update 🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News: Apple Podcasts Spotify  

LaDonna Green and Cindy Brinkmann of the Stoneware Museum of Monmouth join Galesburg's Morning News to preview the fifth annual Stoneware Fest and Swap Meet — Saturday, June 27, at 507 S. Sunny Lane in Monmouth. Free admission. Free parking. Free appraisals. Topics covered in this interview: How the event grew from 23 vendors in year one to more than 70 this year, representing eight states Why vendors come from across the country — including the free booth model and Friday night meal Free appraisals from four experts with up to 45 years of experience — and the $5 yard sale find appraised at $2,000 Pottery throwing demonstrations on electric and kick wheels — and how to try it yourself Butter churning at 11 a.m. using an authentic Monmouth Pottery butter churn circa 1902 The free "get your purchases home safely" packaging and wrapping booth Monmouth's history as a pottery hub — five potteries from 1870 to 2012 What the museum's 1,700-piece collection includes — and what makes stoneware valuable Door prizes including a Red Wing Christmas tree stand, an 1800s salt-glaze crock, and a late 19th-century West Virginia canning jar Free golf cart shuttles, free ice cream starting at 10 a.m., and food from Phat Belly's BBQ of Monmouth   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Read the full story: Stoneware Fest brings 70 vendors from 8 states to Monmouth this Saturday — admission, appraisals, and ice cream all free For more information, contact Ray Brinkmann at (309) 255-1939.

Harvey Schofield of the Knoxville American Legion joins Galesburg's Morning News to preview the Legion's big June 27 celebration — a "parking lot party" marking both America's 250th birthday and the Legion's 50th year in its current building. The event is Saturday, June 27, with doors open at noon at the Knoxville American Legion. Topics covered in this interview: Live music all day — J&J Entertainment noon-3 p.m., 90 Proof Stew 3-6 p.m., and Whiskey Ridge 7 p.m. until close Food trucks on site — Big Cats and Carnival Delight, starting at noon Kids activities — free bounce house, video gaming bus, and face painting Patriotic decorating contest for side-by-sides and golf carts — cash prizes, no entry fee Beer can golf for adults — $10 entry fee First 100 people through the bar get to pull from a pull tab board for cash and prizes A historical display inside marking the Legion's 50th year in the current building How the Legion maintains 160-180 members and what makes Knoxville's post welcoming The Legion's Friday night food specials and hall rental availability How veterans can join the Legion — now open to all who have served, not just wartime vets   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information or to inquire about hall rentals and membership, contact the Knoxville American Legion at (309) 289-2315. [caption id="attachment_702552" align="aligncenter" width="683"] The Knoxville American Legion is hosting a 250th birthday party for the USA on Saturday, June 27, starting at noon. (Photo provided)[/caption]

Yemm Auto Group General Manager Sara Yemm joins Galesburg's Morning News to preview the dealership's 3rd Annual Cars & Coffee event, happening Saturday, June 20, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 2195 N. Henderson St. in Galesburg. All vehicles are welcome — classic cars, muscle cars, sports cars, vans, motorcycles, lifted trucks, and everything in between. You don't need to own a show car to attend. Topics covered in this interview: How Cars & Coffee grew from a casual employee idea to an event drawing more than 100 vehicles Why Sarah says the stories behind the cars are her favorite part of the day The legacy of founder Dick Yemm and the 1955 yellow Bel Air that still sits in the Chevy showroom Live music from the Larson Brothers Food available from Taquería Jalisco on Wheels Coffee from Innkeeper's Fresh Roasted Coffee A 50/50 raffle and door prizes, with proceeds benefiting Carl Sandburg College's automotive program   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Yemm Auto Group is located at 2195 N. Henderson St. in Galesburg. Cars & Coffee runs Saturday, June 20, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. All are welcome.

Richard Cangro, Professor and Director of Music Education at Western Illinois University, joins Galesburg's Morning News to preview the Knox-Galesburg Symphony's season finale, "Silver Screen Symphony," Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater in Galesburg. Topics covered in this interview: What audiences can expect from Saturday's film and television score concert The featured violin solo for "Theme from Schindler's List" Cangro's path from Staten Island trumpet student to university music professor His memorable stint performing trumpet for the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus Conducting and teaching music in more than a dozen countries What makes the Orpheum Theater a unique venue for the symphony Why the concert is designed to be accessible for first-time symphony attendees   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Tickets are available at galesburgorpheum.org, by calling the Orpheum Theater at (309) 342-2299, or at kgsymphony.org. Read the full story: From Star Trek to Schindler's List: Knox-Galesburg Symphony's season finale goes to the movies

Monmouth Mayor Rod Davies and City Administrator Lew Steinbrecher join Galesburg's Morning News with an update on Wednesday's (June 17) storm damage, ongoing power restoration, and the city's recovery efforts. Topics covered in this interview: The overall scope of storm damage across Monmouth, including downed trees, power lines, and roof damage to city hall Significant property damage on the east side of the downtown square, including Maude Specklebelly's and the old Whitman Law Office Power outage numbers — more than 6,000 Ameren customers at peak, with roughly 3,400 still without power City debris cleanup plans for residential areas over the coming week Outreach to state and federal officials and a meeting with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency for possible disaster assistance The train derailment near Ormonde and its impact on the response effort How residents can help, including donations to the local food pantry   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Dick Anderson, President and CEO of Anderson State Bank, Josh Gibb, President and CEO of the Galesburg Community Foundation, and Pete Holmes, President of the ROWVA Public Schools Foundation, join Galesburg's Morning News to discuss the bank's 150th anniversary and the launch of the new ASB 150 Fund. Topics covered in this interview: The founding of Anderson State Bank in 1876 by A.B. Anderson, a Scottish immigrant Four generations of Anderson family leadership Employee longevity, including Linda Edstedt's 50 years and Earl Copeland's 67 years with the bank Anderson State Bank's Best Bank to Work For honor and two 40 Under 40 honorees How the ASB 150 Fund evolved from a one-time donation into a permanent endowment Projected impact of the fund — $1 million annually and $32.6 million cumulatively by 2185 What the ROWVA Public Schools Foundation has historically supported, and what the fund means going forward   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Read the full story: Anderson State Bank marks 150 years with new endowed fund for ROWVA students

Joy Boostrom, business manager and 41-year member of the Monmouth Municipal Band, joins Galesburg's Morning News to talk about the band's 96th season, its multi-generational membership, and what's ahead this summer. Topics covered in this interview: What it means for the band to reach its 96th season The band's multi-generational membership, ranging from recent high school graduates to musicians in their 70s and 80s The band's connection to Monmouth College through director Dr. Justin Swearingen Weekly Tuesday rehearsals at First United Methodist Church in Monmouth Thursday concerts at 6 p.m. Why the band travels to community events rather than performing at a fixed venue This summer's concert schedule, including Harmon Park, the Fourth of July Fly-In Breakfast, the Strom Senior Center, and the Warren County Museum How adults who haven't played an instrument since high school can rejoin The band's goals as it approaches its 100th anniversary   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For more information or to get involved with the Monmouth Municipal Band, find them on Facebook.

Kara Downin, Resource Conservationist with the Knox County Soil and Water Conservation District, joins Galesburg's Morning News to preview two upcoming events and a reminder for landowners enrolled in a federal conservation program. Topics covered in this interview: A well sealing demonstration on Thursday, June 25, at 10 a.m. on the Carlson property on County Road 9, across from Ameren State cost-share funds available for sealing abandoned wells — up to $500 for dug wells and $850 for drilled wells The Women and the Land: Spotlight on Conservation workshop on Friday, June 26, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Wataga Fire Station, in partnership with University of Illinois Extension A reminder for landowners enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program — no mowing on contracted acres until after August 1 Small-scale soil testing kits and Plantskydd organic animal repellent available through the district   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. To register for the Women and the Land workshop, visit registration.extension.illinois.edu/start/women-and-the-land-spotlight-on-conservation-knox-2026. RSVPs are due June 25. For more information on Knox County Soil and Water Conservation District programs and services, visit the district's Facebook page or stop by the USDA building, 233 S. Soangetaha Road, Suite 4 in Galesburg.

Mary Beth Shomos — known in Galesburg as Mary Beth Erffmeyer, GHS Class of 1979 — joined Jay Redfern on Galesburg's Morning News on Monday, June 15, 2026, to reflect on two major efforts she helped lead on behalf of GHS band alumni: the naming of the Sally Rynott Music Wing at Galesburg Junior/Senior High School, and the creation of the GHS Band Alumni Legacy Fund through the Galesburg Community Foundation. Shomos served as the second female drum major in GHS history under Rynott's direction, was a member of the band that traveled to Rome in 1978 to perform at an international music festival, and has spent the past year helping organize alumni support for both the wing naming and the legacy fund. In this interview, Shomos discusses: What the 7-0 board vote on June 8 meant to her and fellow alumni Sally Rynott's demanding leadership style — and her softer side The 1978 Rome trip and what it meant for kids from Galesburg The GHS Band Alumni Legacy Fund — what it is, who it's for, and how to give The upcoming alumni reunion, July 31 and August 1 in Galesburg   To contribute to the GHS Band Alumni Legacy Fund, contact the Galesburg Community Foundation. For reunion information, email [email protected]. Read the full story: 'Jeezy Cricks, what have you gone and done?': GHS drum major reflects on Sally Rynott and a fund for the future Read WGIL's full coverage of the Sally Rynott Music Wing naming: Preview story | Board vote story  Subscribe to Galesburg’s Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Galesburg City Manager Eric Hanson joins Galesburg's Morning News ahead of the June 16 Galesburg City Council meeting to preview the agenda, including a significant update on the Galesburg Business Park, a new agreement with Burlington Junction Railway, and the latest on the Standish Park revitalization project. Topics covered in this interview: The Galesburg Gauntlet disc golf tournament at Lake Storey — June 27 Paratransit service contract with the Knox County Health Department Decommissioned squad car donated to Galesburg Area Vocational Center for law enforcement training Acoustic water leak detection system — addressing a 40% non-revenue water loss rate Replacement police vehicle — 2027 Ford Police Interceptor DeLong Company grain terminal update — on schedule, construction likely spring 2027 Burlington Junction Railway agreement — marketing the remaining 98 acres of the Business Park Standish Park — community response, timeline, and coexistence with the arboretum   🎧 Subscribe to Galesburg's Morning News on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Read the full story: Galesburg Business Park poised for growth as rail project advances, new firm recruited to fill remaining acres Tonight's Galesburg City Council meeting begins at 6 p.m. at Galesburg City Hall. Click here to view the entire agenda.

Kelly Price, executive director, and Pam Perkins, board president of CASA of West Central Illinois, joined Galesburg's Morning News on Thursday, June 11, 2026, to preview Putts 'N' Pubs and talk about the organization's work on behalf of foster children across five counties. Putts 'N' Pubs is Saturday, July 11 — check-in at 2 p.m. at Reserve Artisan Ales, 185 S. Kellogg St. Event runs 3–7 p.m. Tickets are $30 per person, teams of four. Kelly and Pam walk through how the pub golf event works, what CASA volunteers actually do for children in foster care, and why the need is greater than most people realize — there are more than 400 children in foster care across CASA's five-county service area, and the organization is currently serving 127 of them. CASA is looking for volunteers and board members. It takes under five hours a month to make a real difference. Learn more at casaofwestcentralillinois.org or call (309) 343-4299. For the full story, visit: ➡️ CASA of West Central Illinois brings Putts 'N' Pubs to downtown Galesburg July 11 — and the cause couldn't be more important

Pam Davidson, organizer of the second annual Knox County Miss Juneteenth Pageant, joined Galesburg's Morning News on Wednesday, June 10 to preview the event ahead of Saturday's pageant at the Knox College Center for Fine Arts. The pageant is Saturday, June 13. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and the program begins at 5. Free to attend. Donations are welcome. Davidson talks about the history of Juneteenth, how the pageant came together, what the 12 contestants go through in the weeks of preparation, and what she hopes the community takes away from the experience. She also shares a moving story from last year's Junior Miss winner that captures exactly what the pageant is trying to do. Age divisions: Little Miss (ages 5–9), Junior Miss (ages 10–14), Miss (ages 15–18). Emceed by Jarvis Hodges. Find the event on Facebook — Miss Knox County Juneteenth Pageant. For the full story, visit: ➡️ Knox County Miss Juneteenth Pageant is Saturday — and it's not your typical pageant