Regional Media Podcast Network

Juneteenth takes center stage this week on Wake Up Tri-Counties, as Ken Peel welcomed Etta LaFlora and Lovondi Jordan to discuss the holiday’s history and meaning. Juneteenth commemorates June 19th, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing freedom for enslaved people—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. The guests emphasized that Juneteenth is more than a day off; it is a time to remember, reflect, and teach younger generations about freedom, resilience, faith, and hope. They also highlighted Dr. Opal Lee’s efforts to make Juneteenth a national holiday, signed into law in 2021. Juneteenth marks a pivotal moment in American history — the day freedom finally reached enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, on June 19th, 1865. That announcement came more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. The first celebrations began in Texas the following year, with prayer, music, family gatherings, and community events. Texas officially recognized Juneteenth in 1980, and in 2021 it became a federal holiday. Today, Juneteenth is both a celebration of African American freedom, culture, and achievement—and a reminder of the continuing pursuit of equality and justice across the nation.

June is National Men’s Health Month, and OSF St. Luke’s is urging men across the Tri-Counties to stop putting off routine care. Samantha Rucks told Wake Up Tri-Counties that many men wait until pain or symptoms become serious before seeing a provider, which can make treatment harder. She says annual physicals, lab work, and age-appropriate screenings for prostate cancer, colon cancer, diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol can catch problems early. Rucks says men should build a relationship with a primary care provider before health issues arise. To connect with OSF in Kewanee, call 309-852-7700.

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to remind listeners that vacation time is more than a luxury — it can support better mental and physical health. Samantha Rux says time away, whether it’s a trip, a staycation, or a long weekend, can improve mood, sleep, and productivity, with benefits lasting up to six weeks. She emphasized the importance of truly disconnecting from work by using out-of-office messages and relying on coworkers for support. Health experts suggest taking two vacations a year when possible. More health resources are available through the OSF Newsroom and at osfhealthcare.org.

Raeann Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Juneteenth Holiday Closure, IDOT Exams, Sun Safety, and School Physicals. Offices and First Choice Healthcare Clinics will be closed Friday, June 19th, for Juneteenth, with limited home services still available. The departments will also host a “12 Communities, 12 Months” outreach event at the Henry County Fair in Cambridge on June 17th and 18th from 2 to 4 PM, offering medication disposal, blood pressure checks, health information, and insurance navigator help. First Choice is also offering DOT physicals in Kewanee and Toulon by appointment. Health officials are urging summer sun safety, especially for children.

Henry County Farm Bureau is gearing up for a busy summer, starting with next week’s Henry County Fair. Manager Katie Lalleman says Farm Bureau will have a booth in the Merchants Building, offering members discounted tickets for the pork producers' stand and sharing information with non-member agriculture education, landowner rights, legislative priorities, and member discounts. Upcoming events include a Market Outlook seminar on June 30th at Lavender Crest, Safety Starts With You on July 8th in Geneseo, and the Farm Bureau Foundation Golf Fun Day on August 14th at Baker Park in Kewanee. Proceeds support Ag in the Classroom programming.

The 167th Henry County Fair returns June 16th through the 21st in Cambridge, bringing a full week of livestock shows, fair food, carnival rides, and grandstand events. Jennifer West says this year’s highlights include a new school bus demolition derby on Saturday night, two truck and tractor pulls, a rodeo, and free family activities on Wednesday. Kids can enjoy pedal pulls, sack races, chicken scrambles, and pig scrambles, with an adult pig scramble also planned. Admission is $5 per day, while an $80 ultimate pass covers the full week and grandstand access. Fairgoers can also enjoy livestock shows, art hall exhibits, carnival rides, and favorites like Malone’s taffy and pork chop sandwiches. Fair organizers are also seeking volunteers, with details available through the Henry County Fair website and Facebook page. Stay tuned to the Henry County Fair website for updates to the daily schedule.

Todd DeDecker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the Doodle Folk Music Festival, the 17th Annual Honor Flight Benefit, and upcoming events in Bishop Hill. Bishop Hill is tuning up for a full day of community celebration today as the Doodle Folk Music Festival marks America’s 250th birthday with free concerts in the historic village park. Barry Cloyd opens at 10, followed by the Taproot Wranglers, the Bucktown Americana Music Show, and Lee Murdock at 3. Meanwhile, The Filling Station Restaurant hosts its 17th annual Honor Flight Benefit from 7 to 2, supporting Honor Flight of the Quad Cities. Guests can enjoy pay-what-you-can breakfast and lunch, a brown bag raffle, live auction, and music—all helping regional veterans. The Doodle Folk Music Festival returns with support from the Illinois Arts Council, the Minneapolis Foundation, and Regional Media as its media sponsor. Music lovers can enjoy a diverse lineup and regional acts. For more festival details, reach out by phone at 309-927-3899 or email [email protected]. Event schedules and updates are available online at www.bishophillheritage.org and on the Bishop Hill Heritage Association’s “Facebook page.” This community celebration promises an unforgettable experience for fans of folk music and local culture alike.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the Better Birth Outcomes Program, PrEP and HIV Prevention Programs, Family Health and Fitness Day, National Community Health Improvement Week, Men's Health Month, and Insurance Navigators at the Henry County Fair. Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare are spotlighting several June health programs. Expecting parents and families with babies under six months can enroll in the free Better Birth Outcomes program for nurse-guided pregnancy and newborn support. June also brings Pride Month HIV prevention services, including confidential testing, counseling, and access to PrEP or PEP. Men’s Health Month lab discounts include thyroid, prostate, and colon cancer screenings. Insurance navigators will also be at the Henry County Fairgrounds in Cambridge June 17th through 19th. For clinic appointments, call Kewanee at 309-852-5272 or Toulon at 309-852-3115.

Mayor Gary Moore and City Manager Kasey Mitchell joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the city-wide cleanup on June 6th, upcoming road construction, the sidewalk reimbursement program, and Hog Days. Kewanee residents are encouraged to take part in city-wide Cleanup Day, which will take place on Saturday, June 6th, from 7 AM until noon. Participants should ensure all items are bagged or boxed for quick unloading, helping keep the area clean and efficient. Proof of an address within Kewanee is required. Volunteers are needed to assist with unloading vehicles and placing materials into large dumpsters. Extra hands are necessary to help the process move smoothly for everyone involved. Anyone interested in volunteering should show up Saturday morning. Join the effort to keep the city looking its best and make a difference in your community. If the event is postponed due to rain, the backup date is next Saturday. Restrictions include no electronics, toner, or liquids such as paint. The city is also promoting involvement in upcoming events, including Hog Days, and highlighting summer construction projects and a sidewalk reimbursement program.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss food safety, monthly CPR classes, free gun locks, the monthly outreach event at the Henry County Fair, ticks, safe sharps disposal, and insurance navigators. June is National Safety Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare, are offering free gun locks at clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon to help reduce gun-related injuries and deaths. Residents are encouraged to pick up locks weekdays between 8 AM and 4 PM. Firearm suicide claims 64 American lives daily, and keeping both guns and ammunition locked can sharply reduce these risks. Free gun locks are also available via the Veterans Crisis Line—call 988 and press 1, chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net, or text 838255. For more safety news, the departments are hosting free blood pressure checks, sharps disposal, and insurance help at the Henry County Fair on June 17th and 18th. The departments also offer Lyme disease screening and tick testing and are expanding access to safe disposal kiosks for used medical sharps at six locations. Monthly CPR classes and food safety guidance for local vendors round out the health focus. More details at henrystarkhealth.com.

Sara Billiet joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the Summer reading program, getting a library card, magician Zach Purcell, and author Becca Kinzer. Summer is officially underway at the Kewanee Public Library, where the annual summer reading program has just kicked off and welcomes participants of all ages. Youth Services Manager Sarah Billiott highlights the annual program, which runs through July 18th and welcomes new participants anytime before it ends. Both children and adults can track their reading in the Beanstack app or with traditional paper logs and earn prizes just for reading. Signing up for the summer reading program is simple—just bring a photo ID and proof of address to the service desk. The library card is free, and district boundaries stretch into Stark County and beyond Kewanee. Special events this summer include magician Zach Purcell on June 8th at 10:30 AM and author Becca Kinzer, appearing June 11th from 2 to 4 PM. All events and participation are free. Find details at kewaneelibrary.org, on "Facebook," or visit the library in person.

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the patient transportation program. OSF HealthCare St. Luke’s continues to address barriers to local healthcare through its patient transportation program. Launched after a 2019 community health assessment revealed transportation as a major barrier, the hospital’s van service shuttles patients to and from medical appointments free of charge. Funded entirely through donations and events like today's annual golf outing at Midland Golf Club, the program has improved outcomes by ensuring patients can attend regular appointments, which is especially vital for those with injuries or no other means of transportation. For more details, patients can contact their healthcare provider or check with the scheduling team when scheduling an appointment. The hospital also hosts bi-monthly local blood drives. The next blood drive is on June 4, 2026, from 7 AM to 5 PM—find details at bloodcenter.org. To find more blood drives in the area, visit bloodcenter.org and search zip code 61443.

On Wake Up Tri-Counties, Deputy Assistant Police Chief Mike Minks joined Ken Peel and Jennifer Russell to share insights on the DAART program, which supports individuals battling addiction in Kewanee, Golf Outing, and National Night Out. The DAART program, revived through nearly $100,000 in grant funding, provides transportation for those seeking rehab and now includes neurofeedback therapy via licensed therapists. Kewanee’s DAART program is making a significant impact in the community, helping residents struggling with addiction access vital resources and support. Deputy Chief Mike Minx, who’s been with the Kewanee Police Department since 2007, shared how federal and local grant funding has revived the initiative, providing transportation to rehab and launching a neurofeedback program in partnership with licensed therapist Johanna Hager. Since January, more than a dozen participants have continued therapy on their own, thanks to successful early intervention. The program’s collaborative approach, uniting police, mental health agencies, and probation, is strengthening Kewanee by breaking barriers and building supportive networks for recovery. For more information or to donate, residents can contact Deputy Chief Mike Minx at the Kewanee Police Department at 309-853-1911. Golf enthusiasts and beginners alike are invited to test their skills at the upcoming Kewanee Police Department FOP Lodge 233 charity golf outing. Taking place July 11th with a 10 a.m. shotgun start at Midland Golf Course, this annual event raises funds for local community causes, with previous donations supporting Amber Patch’s Toy Drive and Brave Heart. Entry is $80 per person, with teams of four at $320, and single players will be paired up. The outing includes dinner, raffles, and a 50-50 drawing. For registration or sponsorships, contact Eric Peed at [email protected]. National Night Out returns to Northeast Park on Tuesday, August 4th, bringing the community together for an evening of connection and fun. Expect open swim at the pool, local vendors, and a vehicle showcase featuring fire trucks and tow trucks. The popular car show drive-in welcomes anyone with a classic or unique vehicle eager to inspire the next generation of enthusiasts. Enjoy free hot dogs and help support the event by donating juice boxes—Operation Juice Box is in full swing, aiming to provide drinks for local kids. To get involved or donate, contact Deputy Chief Mike Minks at [email protected] or 309-853-1911.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Blood Pressure Awareness Month, Osteoporosis Awareness Month, No Tobacco Day, school and sports physicals, and insurance navigators. With summer underway, the Henry and Stark County Health Departments remind families that school and sports physicals are available all season at Kewanee and Toulon clinics. Students entering kindergarten, preschool, sixth grade, freshman year, and all junior or senior high athletes can schedule exams, with insurance accepted and physicals priced at $50. Parents should bring completed forms for a fast visit. May marks National Osteoporosis Month, highlighting the need for bone health checks. Free blood pressure kiosks are available at clinics in Kewanee, Toulon, and Colona for easy monitoring. 

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Mental Health Awareness Month, the 12 Communities in 12 Months Community Outreach Event in Galva, Blood Pressure Awareness Month, and Insurance Navigators. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics will be closed Monday, May 25, for Memorial Day, with limited in-home services available. During May, as part of Mental Health Awareness Month, residents are encouraged to “Show Your Green” in support of local mental health initiatives, with proceeds from t-shirt sales aiding behavioral health patients. Free blood pressure checks, health info, and giveaways will be offered at the “12 Communities in 12 Months” outreach event on May 22 at Special Kneads Bakery in Galva. Insurance Navigators are also hosting free enrollment events throughout the month. For updates, visit henrystarkhealth.com.

Katie Laleman from the Henry County Farm Bureau joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss upcoming events, road safety during the planting season, the Henry County Fair, and Mental Health Awareness Month. Planting season is underway in Henry County, though recent wet and cold weather has left some farmers feeling behind. Safety is top of mind, as farm equipment remains on the roads—drivers are urged to slow down and watch for large machinery. The Farm Bureau encourages residents to support educational initiatives through "Birdies for Charity" and to register for the Foundation’s Golf Fun Day on August 14th at Baker Park. The Henry County Fair arrives June 16–21, with the annual Pedal Pull moving to Wednesday at the grandstand stage. May is also recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month.

Abilities Plus Director of Development Alejandro Alvarez joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the second annual Community Resource Fair on May 21, 2026. Abilities Plus is inviting the Kewanee community to its second annual Community Resource Fair on May 21st, from 4:30 to 6 PM at 1100 North East Street. The fair will feature over 26 organizations, including the Henry Stark County Health Department, Kewanee Public Library, and local law enforcement, plus representatives from education, health, and youth services. Attendees can discover a wide range of free support and resources, from early childhood programs to public transportation and disability services. The event is open to everyone and offers an excellent chance to connect, collaborate, and learn about services available in the tri-counties area.

A review of city business.

Felisha Rogers joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the services provided by Braveheart Children's Advocacy Center (CAC), child abuse, child trafficking, and donations. At Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center, a dedicated team is making a real difference for children and teens facing trauma from abuse or witnessing crimes. Previously, victims endured the pain of recounting their story to multiple agencies. Today, Braveheart brings together experts from law enforcement, child services, and the court system, so young people need only speak once in a safe setting. The conversation is recorded to ensure accuracy and spare the child further emotional strain. Since opening in 1999, Braveheart has expanded its caring approach across several Illinois counties, guiding families with advocacy, education, and unwavering support throughout the investigative process. Braveheart's mission: "Our mission is to strengthen our community's response to child abuse through prevention, intervention and advocacy." Braveheart CAC relies on donations and grants to provide vital services to children of physical and sexual abuse. Visit "Donate to Braveheart" to contribute. Donations needed to support children and families during the difficult process The Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center is in need of donations to support children and families navigating difficult situations. Staff encourages donations of individually wrapped snacks, juice boxes, fruit snacks, and bottled water, which can bring comfort to young clients. Gas cards—with a preference for $10 amounts from Casey’s—can be crucial in helping families access therapy and specialized medical care. Everyday essentials such as cleaning supplies, toilet paper, printer paper, and Forever Stamps are also sought, as grants do not cover these needs. Donations must be new and unopened. To coordinate a donation, email [email protected] or deliver it directly to 292 South East Road in Cambridge. Individually wrapped, multi-packaged food items, such as: Juice Boxes Bottled Water Variety boxes of chips, popcorn, etc Crackers like Cheez-It's or Goldfish Fruit Snacks Granola Bars K-Cups (Hot Chocolate, or Coffee: Regular & Decaf) - for parents/guardians as they wait in our building $10.00 cards from Casey’s (Casey's is conveniently located in most towns across our five counties​) Becks and Shell are also in many areas for secondary options​ Cleaning supplies—This need ranges from disinfectant wipes to bathroom cleaning products​ to dusting pads Toilet paper and Kleenex​​ Printer paper Forever Stamps

Diana Johnson joined Tom Katz on Wake Up Tri-Counties for the "Here's to Your Health" series, discussing services at Hammond-Henry Hospital. Spotlighting local healthcare, Diana Johnson, a respiratory therapist with nearly two decades at Hammond Henry Hospital, discussed her pivotal role in the pulmonary function department. She performs pulmonary function tests, which help diagnose breathing issues like asthma, COPD, and chronic coughs, on patients ranging from age six to 100. Symptoms prompting referral include persistent shortness of breath or unexplained coughing, especially active during allergy season and for student athletes. The testing process is thorough, and results are reviewed promptly by a pulmonologist to guide further care. More about these services can be found at hammondhenry.com.

Samantha Rux and Blaine Clarke joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about upgrades at OSF Saint Luke Medical Center, making OSF HealthCare a medical "destination," and the upcoming Golf Classic to support the OSF Saint Luke public transportation system. OSF HealthCare is wrapping up a week of celebrations honoring nurses and healthcare workers, marked by special events including theme days, food trucks, and the annual Daisy and Sunflower Awards. The focus shifts now to investments in technology and local care access through the Destination OSF initiative. Recent upgrades include a new MRI and DEXA machine at St. Luke’s, quicker lab services, and advanced breast imaging in Galesburg. General surgical services have expanded locally, reducing the need to travel for procedures. OSF encourages residents to explore care options closer to home as community hospitals grow their capabilities.

Lorna Brown joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the annual Quilt Show in Bishop Hill. Bishop Hill welcomes visitors this weekend for its annual Quilt Show, a highlight of Civil War Days. Hosted by the Prairie Queen Quilt Club, the event features nearly 100 quilts on display at the Colony School from makers across Henry County. Quilts aren’t for sale, but guests can browse the popular “trash and treasures” room for fabric, notions, and creative finds. Admission remains just $5, continuing a tradition that began 36 years ago. Club members also create charity quilts for local organizations throughout the year. The show runs from 9 AM to 4 PM on Friday and Saturday. “Quilting an American Legacy” is this year’s theme, nodding to both tradition and the upcoming 250th birthday of the United States. Proceeds and club initiatives will benefit local charities in Kewanee this year. To join the club or for more details, visit the "Prairie Queen Quilt Club" Facebook page or sign up during the event. Membership is $10 a year.

Todd DeDecker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming Civil War programs in Bishop Hill. History will come alive in Bishop Hill as the Heritage Association presents a full day of Civil War programs on May 16, 2026, celebrating America’s 250th birthday. The village park will be transformed with authentic Union and Confederate camps, military drills, and a parade. Highlights include a midday speech from Union General John Logan, a Civil War music concert, an artillery demonstration, and a reenacted battle. The day concludes with a spirited evening ball. Visitors can also enjoy the annual Quilt Show and children’s activities. Visitors can explore authentic Union and Confederate encampments, witness military drills, enjoy Civil War-era music from the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band, and watch artillery and medical demonstrations. Brian Fox Ellis will portray General John Logan, and attendees are invited to experience a traditional Civil War ball, open to the public with no dance experience required. Family-friendly activities, museum exhibits, and a period-authentic quilt show round out the program, with most events free of charge. Details can be found at bishophillheritage.org or by calling 309-927-3899. Saturday, May 16: Civil War Program Schedule Soldiers encamped all day in the village park; Sutlers and civilians Encampment by Steeple Building Museum 9:30 AM: Drill at Coopers’ Field 11:00 AM: Parade from Coopers’ Field to Steeple Building Museum 11:30 AM: Roll Call/Ration Issue in the park Noon: General Logan’s speech in the park 1:30 PM: Concert by the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band in the park 2:30 PM: Artillery Demonstration at Coopers’ Field 3:30 PM: Battle at Coopers’ Field, followed by a medical demonstration in the park 6-8 PM: Civil War Ball at Bishop Hill Creative Commons

Connie Johnson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties for the May edition of "Cambridge Happenings" to talk about upcoming events in May and June 2025. Cambridge is packed with activities this month, kicking off with the Cruise-In at College Square Park tomorrow, inviting all vehicle enthusiasts from 5 to 7 for cars, conversation, and food. The community-wide cleanup follows on May 15th—residents are reminded to have items out by 5 a.m. The Fireman's Breakfast takes place on May 17th, offering pancakes and more to support local first responders, with a high school graduation and the food pantry later that day. Spectrum Fest hits Memorial Day weekend with bands, tournaments, and kid-friendly activities. The summer concert series launches May 27th, promising music-filled Thursday nights at the band shell.

The 31st Relay for Life of The Sauk Valley is just a month away.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about National Women's Health Week, Children's Mental Health Week, Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month, Toulon Telepharmacy, and Insurance Navigators. National Women’s Health Week runs from May 10th to 16th, spotlighting prevention, innovation, and impact in women’s wellness. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, together with First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon, are urging women to schedule annual exams, receive immunizations, and maintain mental well-being. Children’s Mental Health Week, May 9th to 15th, emphasizes early intervention, with counseling available starting at age five. A special promotion offers residents a free General Health Blood Panel, worth $50, when transferring prescriptions to Toulon Telepharmacy. Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month brings a focus on accessible reproductive care for adolescents. Insurance Navigators will offer in-person help at upcoming community events. Details and appointment info are available at henrystarkhealth.com.

Brad provides a session update on Springfield legislation.

Erica Huffer, clinical educator at Hammond Henry Hospital, joined the Wake Up Tri-Counties morning show to discuss her new role and a promising initiative called SPARK. SPARK stands for Supporting Professionals Accountability Through Resources and Knowledge, aiming to enhance staff development and professional standards across the hospital. Since taking on her clinical educator position just before Thanksgiving, Erica has focused on empowering healthcare workers with accessible training, mentorship, and educational tools. The initiative hopes to create a culture of continuous learning and support for hospital staff. This new initiative offers full tuition coverage, paid clinical hours, and a guaranteed job after graduation for future nurses, lab staff, and athletic trainers. In exchange, participants pledge to work at the hospital for four years post-licensure. The program seeks applicants at least 18 years old, committed to improving community health, and capable of maintaining a 2.75 GPA. SPARK removes the burden of student debt while providing valuable hands-on experience. Funded by the Hammond Henry Hospital Foundation, the program welcomes applications through May 30 for the fall 2026 cycle. More details are available at hammondhenry.com.

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about health care designations during May and the Silver Cloud Mental Health services through OSF HealthCare. Health care workers are being celebrated across the tri-counties as OSF HealthCare marks both Nurses Week and Healthcare Week, spotlighting the tireless contributions of all mission partners, not just those in hospital settings. Community members are invited to join in festivities like food trucks, with the full schedule set to be announced soon. In addition, May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a reminder of the importance of caring for mental well-being. OSF HealthCare is highlighting its SilverCloud program, a free, confidential online resource offering personalized mental health support and modules for adults. For details, visit osf.silvercloudhealth.com or the myOSF app.

The Sheep Detectives stars Hugh Jackman, Emma Thompson, and the voices of Julia Louis Dreyfuss and Chris O’Dowd in the story of a beloved shepherd (Jackman) who spends time reading detective stories aloud for his flock of sheep. When the shepherd is murdered, the sheep take it upon themselves to solve the crime. Listen to Sean’s review from today’s Back Road Lunch on the Hog Country Radio Network.

News and Information from Sauk Valley Community College

Dustin Williams, Amanga Stodgel, and John Wirth joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the proposed CO₂ sequestration project near the city of Galva at the ethanol plant. Dustin shares the information he has accumulated regarding CO₂ capture and storage. Amanda is a registered nurse and shares information regarding carbon dioxide exposure and emergency response to a CO₂ leak. A group was formed to keep Galva residents educated and informed of the project. You can join the group on Facebook at "Galva Area CO2 Awareness Group". The June 1, 2026, council meeting will have Chief Byers and Mat Schnepple from the Office of Emergency Management to discuss the emergency response plan should there be a CO₂ leak. Residents of Galva packed the city council chambers to confront officials after learning that City Administrator David Dyer signed a land-use agreement with Lapis Carbon Solutions in November without a council vote. The contract would allow carbon-capture and storage activities on city land, contingent on permit approval, with an upfront payment of $20,000 and a total value of $170,000. Mr. Dyer told the public he wanted the money to hire a geologist to consult on the effects of pumping CO₂ into the ground and the possible long-term effects. Many residents expressed concerns over health, safety, property values, and transparency. City officials plan to hold a public meeting on the issue in June, with details forthcoming. Galva Fire Department Chief Nate Byers is moving forward with safety preparations for the ethanol plant’s upcoming CO₂ injection project, which remains several years from completion. In anticipation of potential risks, Byers has started collaborating with local fire chiefs who have experience with similar projects, as well as reaching out to the Henry County Office of Emergency Management for discussion about possible leaks and public safety measures. Firefighters from Altona, Oneida, and Wataga are also joining the effort, focusing on truck traffic concerns along Route 34. Byers advocates for early installation of air monitoring systems and public alarms at the plant, alongside clear signage to direct traffic in emergencies. Lapis and Big River Resources unveiled their partnership to tackle carbon emissions at the November 3, 2025, council meeting. Dave Zimmerman, CEO of Big River Resources, emphasized their ongoing collaboration to develop a safer alternative to earlier pipeline proposals. Erik Leigh from Lapis detailed plans for underground CO₂ storage, leveraging Galva’s unique geological layers to secure emissions without disrupting farmland or invoking eminent domain. The project features a rigorous state and federal permitting process and a half-century of post-storage monitoring. Representatives assured local leaders and residents of continued community involvement and openness as the initiative progresses, promising economic and environmental benefits for the region. In Galva, Illinois, a pioneering partnership between Lapis Carbon Solutions and Big River Resources is set to reshape the future of ethanol production. Their new project aims to capture and store over 725,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, significantly reducing ethanol's carbon intensity by at least 30%. Supported by federal tax incentives that could bring over $61 million each year for the first 12 years, this initiative combines environmental ambition with financial strength. Experts see this site-specific approach as a potential model, standing apart from controversial multi-state carbon pipeline projects. The Galva carbon sequestration project has entered the rigorous Environmental Protection Agency Class VI permit process, a step known for its complexity and strict requirements around CO₂ storage safety. Applicants must submit detailed geological information, operational plans, and post-closure strategies to ensure carbon dioxide remains securely underground. The permit review, which often takes years, is compounded in Illinois by the new SAFE CCS Act. This legislation, effective from 2025, enforces additional state-level regulatory controls and outright bans the use of stored CO₂ for enhanced oil recovery. Both federal and state oversight signal heightened scrutiny amid growing public concern. Class VI wells are specialized injection wells regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency to store carbon dioxide deep underground, a process known as geologic sequestration. These wells aim to capture CO₂ from industrial sources or directly from the air and inject it thousands of feet below the surface, keeping it out of the atmosphere to combat climate change. Strict construction, operation, and monitoring requirements are in place to protect underground sources of drinking water. Public involvement is emphasized, with opportunities to comment on permits and attend hearings. All Class VI projects undergo careful oversight and must meet federal and local safety regulations. Find more information on Class VI wells and carbon capture on the "EPA Website." Find more information from Lapis at the "Big River Project" website. Stay up-to-date with information at the "Lapis Big River Facebook Page."

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Department and First Choice HealthCare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Children's Book Week, Nurses Week, the May Community Outreach Event, radon test kits, and insurance navigators. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, in partnership with area organizations, are highlighting several community initiatives this May. Residents are invited to donate children’s books during Children’s Book Week, May 4th through 10th. Drop-offs are accepted at Henry & Stark County Health Department offices and First Choice Healthcare clinics. National Nurses Week, May 6th to 12th, shines a light on the compassion and leadership that local nurses provide. Residents are reminded to test their homes for radon, the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, with affordable $15 kits available at local offices. Visit henrystarkhealth.com for more details.

An update on city business and some events coming up

Keri talks about the summer program Let's Feed Our Children

The presented a Crime Stoppers update, and had some fun conversation as well.

Listen to Sean Kernan live on the Hog Country Radio Network every Friday at 12:45 on The Hog County Radio Network for weekly movie reviews. This week, The Devil Wears Prada Today on Friday at the Movies, Sean Curnan digs into The Devil Wears Prada 2, a sequel that puts fashion and art on the front lines. Meryl Streep reprises her iconic role as Miranda Priestly—still commanding, but with newfound vulnerability as Runway Magazine faces a crisis. Anne Hathaway returns as Andy Sachs, now a sharp journalist pulled in to rescue both magazine and meaning. The film shifts its focus from haute couture drama to a battle against tech and finance forces that threaten to strip art of its soul.

Wake Up Tri-Counties with OSF HealthCare Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the Gift of Hope flag-raising, tissue and organ donation, May health designations, and podiatry services at OSF Healthcare. OSF Healthcare hosted its annual Gift of Hope flag-raising ceremony on April 28th at 2:30 PM, honoring organ, tissue, and eye donors and their families. The event emphasizes the power of donation—one person can save multiple lives—and encourages listeners to discuss donation wishes with loved ones and consider registering. May features various health awareness celebrations, including Nurses Week, Hospital Week, and Mental Health Awareness Month, with activities and food trucks planned. April is National Foot Health Awareness Month. OSF reminds everyone to care for their feet, consult providers before attempting at-home callus treatments, and seek out local podiatry services if needed. Podiatry Specialist at OSF in Kewanee and Peoria Dr. Jeffrey R. Ruskusky, DPM, a board-certified foot surgeon with the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery since 2006, offers specialized podiatric care in Kewanee and Peoria. While he is not employed by OSF HealthCare, his credentials include a 2002 residency at Mercy Hospital & Medical Center and a 2000 medical degree from the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Ruskusky is currently accepting new patients at his practice, focusing on a wide range of foot and ankle concerns. He conducts consultations and procedures in English. Schedule an appointment now Patients can schedule appointments every Monday and Wednesday by calling 309-852-7700. For more information and location details, visit the OSF HealthCare website at "OSF Saint Luke Medical Specialties."