Regional Media Podcast Network

State Senator Mike Halpin says Illinois’ new budget includes added support for school lunch programs and a three-month food assistance bridge for families losing federal benefits. Speaking on Wake Up Tri-Counties, Halpin also defended new taxes on digital advertising and social media platforms, saying the revenue could help fund services including mental health care. He said higher education funding remains a top priority, especially for rural students and schools like Western Illinois University. Halpin also discussed efforts to recover back wages, ease substitute teacher shortages, limit eminent domain for CO₂ pipelines, and protect vulnerable adults under guardianship. State Senator Mike Halpin praised three newly signed Illinois laws that strengthen support for military service members and veterans. The legislation aims to boost Illinois National Guard recruitment, help student service members return to college after military leave, and expand access to innovative mental health treatments for veterans. Halpin highlighted Senate Bill 3926, which moves the Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Program Advisory Council to the Illinois Department of Public Health, where it will help expand access to emerging therapies, improve provider training, enhance patient safety, and promote public awareness. He also applauded Senate Bill 3737, requiring colleges and universities to promptly readmit students returning from military service, and Senate Bill 3818, which encourages Illinois National Guard recruitment through a peer referral incentive program. All three laws take effect January 1, 2027. His office can be reached at 309-558-3612. Mike Halpin serves as Illinois State Senator for the 36th District, representing most of Rock Island County and portions of Mercer, Henry, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties. An attorney and former State Representative, Halpin previously worked for Congressman Lane Evans, assisting constituents and helping veterans secure military honors. He later earned his law degree from the University of Illinois and became a partner at McCarthy, Callas, & Feeney, P.C., where he focuses on labor and municipal law. Halpin continues to advocate for veterans through his work with Bridging the Gap: Stand Down for Homeless Veterans, providing legal assistance to those in need. During his time in the Illinois House, he supported balanced budgets and sponsored legislation allowing schools to stock undesignated glucagon to help save children's lives.

Republican nominee for Illinois Secretary of State Diane Harris joined Wake Up Tri-Counties with Ken Peel to discuss her campaign priorities. Harris, a Joliet native, retired ComEd employee, small business owner, library trustee, substitute teacher, and Joliet Junior College trustee, says DMV access is a major concern. She criticized appointment-only systems and called for walk-in service, kiosks in libraries or grocery stores, and expanded mobile options. Harris also emphasized election integrity, saying voter registration tied to driver’s licenses should include stronger cross-checks with government agencies. She also pledged cooperation with federal officials on CDL licensing records. Her campaign website is www.harrisforsos.com. Diane Harris is a conservative Republican candidate for Illinois Secretary of State who says her Midwestern upbringing instilled values of integrity, hard work, and public service. A retired ComEd employee with 32 years in the electric utility industry, Harris has also worked as an entrepreneur, insurance agent, notary signing agent, and substitute teacher. Harris has held several public service and Republican leadership roles, including Joliet Junior College Trustee, Joliet Public Library Trustee, Precinct Committeeman, and Secretary of the Joliet Township Republicans. She is also active in community, business, and faith-based organizations. If elected, Harris says she would modernize Secretary of State services by expanding DMV kiosks into underserved areas, improving online and in-person customer service, strengthening cybersecurity, and updating outdated technology. She also supports reducing vehicle registration fees for seniors and veterans, promoting election integrity, advocating for safer roads, and creating a more efficient, customer-focused Secretary of State's office. Harris is asking voters for their support in the November 3, 2026, election, pledging "faster, fairer" government for all Illinoisans.

Henry County Farm Bureau is wrapping up a busy summer and preparing for August events. Katie Laleman says the county fair brought strong member turnout, new sign-ups, and a successful pedal pull despite weather challenges. Membership is available for both farmers and associate members, with benefits ranging from legislative advocacy to travel and retail discounts. Coming up, the Farm Bureau Foundation’s Golf Fun Day is set for Friday, August 14th, at Baker Park in Kewanee, supporting scholarships and Ag in the Classroom. The foundation awarded $61,000 in scholarships this year. Young Leader Discussion Meet activities are also planned for August 12th. Membership information and event details are available at henrycofarmbureau.org or through the Farm Bureau office in Cambridge.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the "12 Communities in 12 Months" outreach event, prevention efforts to avoid mosquito bites and West Nile Virus, upcoming insurance navigator events, food inspections, school physicals, and free blood pressure checks on kiosks in Kewanee and Toulon. Henry and Stark County health officials are taking services on the road this month. Their “12 Communities in 12 Months” outreach stop is set for Friday, July 24th, from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Stark County Junior Fair in Wyoming, with medication disposal, free blood pressure checks, health information, giveaways, and insurance navigator help. Residents are also urged to fight West Nile Virus by dumping standing water where mosquitoes breed. Free blood pressure kiosks are available weekdays at First Choice clinics in Kewanee and Toulon. Families can also schedule school and sports physicals this summer for $50 cash. Call 309-852-0197 for details.

OSF St. Luke Medical Center is bringing health care directly to rural communities through the OSF OnCall King Caravan. Samantha Rux says the mobile unit includes two exam rooms and can offer screenings such as blood pressure and cholesterol checks, with some visits including an onboard provider. The caravan serves Bureau, Henry, LaSalle, and Putnam counties, including a monthly stop at the Kewanee YMCA on the fourth Thursday from 11 AM to 1 PM. It may also return for Hog Days and the Stampede. Event organizers can request a mobile health unit through www.osfoncall.org.

Alejandro Alvarez joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming golf outing and preschool screenings. AbilitiesPlus is highlighting programs and upcoming events serving Henry County residents. Director of Development Alejandro Alvarez says the nonprofit, founded in 1959, supports people with disabilities through residential services, day programs, work services, public transportation, and its Preschool for All, which is open to children ages three to five with or without disabilities. AbilitiesPlus is also preparing for its 35th annual golf outing on Monday, August 3rd, at Midland Golf Club, with registration at 11 AM and a shotgun start at noon. Sponsors and teams can email [email protected] or call 309-852-4626. Preschool screenings are set for July 28th and 29th.

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the dangers of e-bikes and electric scooters and provide safety tips for use. OSF St. Luke Medical Center is urging families to treat e-bikes and electric scooters as motor vehicles, not toys. Samantha Rux says emergency and trauma teams are seeing more child injuries linked to speed, lack of control, and limited understanding of traffic rules. Medical experts recommend helmets every ride, and some devices may call for face shields. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises riders be 16 or older for many of these devices. Doctors at OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital of Illinois in Peoria are warning families about a surge in severe e-bike and e-scooter injuries among children, especially ages 10 to 15. Pediatric trauma leaders say high-speed models can behave more like motorcycles than bicycles, raising the risk of broken bones, brain injuries, and spinal trauma. They point to the added battery weight as another danger, with crashes causing serious leg fractures and trapping riders. Physicians urge helmets, visibility, no headphones, and age-appropriate use. They’re also warning families to charge batteries safely, using manufacturer-approved cords and stopping immediately if overheating, smoke, or odd smells occur. With school approaching, OSF HealthCare also reminds parents to review walking and biking safety and schedule school or sports physicals early through OSF MyChart or by calling 309-852-7700.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss food safety during a power outage, outreach events in Wyoming, mental health services, home food safety and licensing, and insurance navigators. During power outages, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed; refrigerated perishables may be unsafe after four hours, while a full unopened freezer can last up to two days. Residents are also urged to check food carefully once power returns. The department’s “12 Communities, 12 Months” outreach visits the Stark County Junior Fair in Wyoming on July 24th, with medication disposal, blood pressure checks, health information, giveaways, and insurance navigator help. Mental health services are also accepting new patients through First Choice Healthcare in Kewanee. Call 309-852-0197 or visit henrystarkhealth.com.

The Dyer Davis Band joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about their group, the 2026 "Stay With Me" summer tour, and perform live from the Sav-A-Lot studio. The Dyer Davis Band is a blues-rock powerhouse known for electrifying live performances that blend modern blues with Southern rock and classic rock influences. Fronted by guitarist and vocalist Dyer Davis, the band delivers soaring guitar solos, gritty vocals, and a high-energy stage presence that has earned them a growing following across the United States. A live blues-rock show is headed to Cambridge, Illinois, as Dyer Davis and his band perform Thursday, July 16th, at Cà d’Zan House Concerts. The evening begins with a potluck and social hour at 6 PM, followed by the show at 7. A suggested donation of $20-$30 will be accepted, and the event is all-ages and family-friendly. In case of rain, the concert moves to Bishop Hill Creative Commons. Davis is known for powerful Southern blues-rock performances, with his debut album “Dog Bites Back” reaching number six on the Billboard Blues Charts. The group's sound combines traditional blues roots with contemporary rock, drawing inspiration from legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix, and The Allman Brothers Band while creating a style that is distinctly their own. Their performances feature a mix of original music and crowd-pleasing blues-rock favorites, making them a popular act at music festivals, theaters, and live music venues. Whether performing intimate club shows or festival stages, the Dyer Davis Band is known for its musicianship, dynamic improvisation, and passionate performances that appeal to both longtime blues fans and new audiences alike. Dyer Davis is on guitar and lead vocals, Warren Beck is on the keyboard, Will Weiner is on bass, and David Weatherspoon is on the drums. Find more details about the Cà d’Zan House Concerts on their "Facebook" page. Stay up-to-date with the Dyer Davis Band on their "Facebook" page and website.

Downtown Kewanee will be filled with art, music, shopping, and family fun during the Prairie Chicken Arts Festival on Friday and Saturday, July 17–18, 2026. Festival activities include chalk art, an art show, food vendors, a flea market, live entertainment, children's activities, museum tours, and local shopping. The celebration also features a Shop Small Business Crawl running July 9–18 and student artwork displayed in downtown storefronts July 13–20. Friday's events include a Sneak Peek Art Show from 5–7 PM at the Hog Capital Building and the Santa's Jingle & Mingle dance party from 7–9 PM in the Rotary Tent. Saturday begins with the Guns & Hoses Breakfast, followed by the Farmers Market, free family activities in Berrien Park, food vendors, live music, puppet shows, the Tiny Chicken Scavenger Hunt, and the announcement of festival winners at 4 PM. The festival is also hosting several special events, including a Chalk Art Competition with professional, amateur, and youth divisions; an Art Show & Competition featuring local artists; vendor opportunities for crafters and flea market sellers; volunteer service hour opportunities; and family-friendly activities throughout downtown. For schedules, registration information, and updates, follow the "Prairie Chicken Arts Festival" on Facebook.

Drew Herridge with the Marshall-Putnam County Fair Board joined Ken Peel on Wake Up Tri-Counties to give an update for the 2026 Marshall-Putnam Fair. The Marshall-Putnam County Fair is celebrating 105 years with a packed schedule in Henry, running July 15th through 19th, with pageant activities beginning July 12th. Drew Herridge, Director and Chairman of Events, says the fair remains free to enter with free parking every day. Highlights include Wednesday’s kickoff dinner and wine tasting, Kids Fun Day on Thursday, the demolition derby on Friday, and America’s PPL pull on Saturday. The biggest draw is Thursday night’s concert featuring Scotty McCreery, with Taylor Bruninga and Cody Calkins opening. Fair details and tickets are available at marshallputnamfair.org and on Facebook. Scotty McCreery has been a household name for nearly half of his life, making history in 2011 as the first country artist and the youngest male artist of any genre to debut his first studio album, the Platinum-certified *Clear as Day*, at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard Top 200 Albums chart. The 31-year-old has sold over 4 million albums and achieved 6 No. 1 hits: the recent “Cab in a Solo,” the RIAA Platinum-certified “Damn Strait,” the RIAA Gold-certified “You Time,” the RIAA Gold-certified “In Between,” the RIAA Platinum-certified “This is It,” and the RIAA Triple Platinum-certified “Five More Minutes.” His latest album is *Rise & Fall*, and his current EP is *Scooter & Friends*, which features the smash hit “Bottle Rockets” with Hootie & The Blowfish.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss heat safety, firework safety, CPR classes, holiday hours, free radon test kits, and insurance navigators. Henry and Stark County health officials are highlighting several July services for residents. Free radon home test kits are available while supplies last at the Kewanee office, 110 North Burr Boulevard, with no holds. The departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics will also be at the Stark County Junior Fair in Wyoming on July 24th from 10 to 2, offering medication disposal, blood pressure checks, giveaways, and health information. Officials are also urging heat safety as temperatures climb above 90 degrees. Residents should stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity, and check on neighbors and pets. Details: henrystarkhealth.com or 309-852-0197.

The Kewanee Chess Association is opening the board to players of all ages and skill levels. Founder Obrey Blumenshine says the group began from his lifelong love of chess and a desire to create a free, social place for the community to play, learn, and connect. Obrey says the association is now affiliated with the Illinois Chess Association and U.S. Chess Federation, with plans for rated tournaments in Kewanee. Chess players in Kewanee have a standing invitation to gather each week for friendly competition and conversation. The Kewanee Chess Association is hosting free open playing sessions every Thursday from 1 to 2:30 PM at the Henry County Senior Center. Organizers say the sessions are open to all ages and all skill levels, from beginners learning the basics to experienced players looking for a challenge. The weekly meetups offer a chance to sharpen strategy, enjoy a classic game, and connect with others in the community. No registration is required—just bring your interest in chess and be ready to play. To join, visit the "Kewanee Chess Association" on Facebook or email [email protected].

Mayor Volkert joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the carbon capture moratorium, playground equipment, a new police vehicle, and reelection. Galva Mayor Rich Volkert says the City of Galva is moving ahead on several major priorities following a packed council meeting. Council members approved an appropriation ordinance for the 2026-2027 fiscal year and unanimously backed Henry County’s moratorium on carbon sequestration projects, citing safety questions and the need for more information. Volkert also addressed ambulance response concerns, police vehicle replacement, and more than 100 local ordinance violations. On growth, he pointed to business retention, a planned housing development east of the park district, new playground equipment, solar projects, and efforts to brand Galva as “Where Music Lives” and “Small Town, Big Sound.”

Jon Looney, Kevin Lucas, and Steve Franklin joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about "Stuff the Bus" on Friday, Rotary Free Swim, First Christian Church Food Pantry, and the joint Rotary and First Christian Church clothing and backpack giveaway. Kewanee Rotary, the Salvation Army, and First Christian Church are teaming up for another Community Day at the Pool on Saturday, July 25th. Backpack and school supply distribution begins at 11 AM, with the pool opening at noon. Organizers say last year’s event handed out 429 backpacks, and they hope to reach 500 this year. Free children’s clothing will also be available, along with information about food blessing boxes at First Christian Church. Donations are still welcome. Salvation Army’s “Stuff the Bus” event is set for Friday, July 10th, from noon to 4 PM at Walmart.

The Minions band together to save the day after unleashing monsters upon an unsuspecting world.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss fireworks safety, food safety, Men's Health Month, the 12 in 12 Outreach Event in Stark County, school physicals, and insurance navigators. Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics will be closed Friday, July 3rd, for the Independence Day holiday, with limited home services continuing. RaeAnn Tucker says residents should keep safety in mind for the Fourth, from fireworks to cookouts. Officials urge adults to supervise fireworks, keep sparklers away from children, and never relight duds. Food safety reminders include keeping meat cold, avoiding cross-contamination, and discarding questionable leftovers. First Choice is also offering summer school and sports physicals in Kewanee and Toulon. The next “12 Communities, 12 Months” event is July 24th at the Stark County Junior Fair in Wyoming. More safety information is available at henrystarkhealth.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

OSF Saint Luke Medical Center is reminding Tri-Counties families to prepare for summer heat and the upcoming school year. Samantha Rux and family medicine provider Kate McGough joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss heat safety, school and sports physicals, and expanded lactation support. McGough has earned certification as an internationally board-certified lactation consultant, offering guidance for new and expectant mothers, including breastfeeding challenges and returning to work. OSF Healthcare is also encouraging parents to schedule physicals through OSF MyChart or by calling 309-852-7700. With extreme heat expected, residents are urged to limit afternoon outdoor activity, hydrate, check on vulnerable neighbors, and take breaks in air conditioning or shade. Find more information at https://www.osfhealthcare.org/ or on the "OSF Healthcare Saint Luke" Facebook page.

Connie Johnson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties for the May edition of "Cambridge Happenings" to talk about upcoming events in July 2026. Cambridge has a busy July ahead, with community events centered around College Square Park. The summer concert series continues Thursday evenings, with a special July 9th concert sponsored by Ridgewood Pharmacy in celebration of its fifth anniversary. Cambridge Car Cruisin’ rolls in on July 16th from 5 to 7 PM, welcoming hot rods, cars, golf carts, trucks, and motorcycles. The Cambridge Masons blood drive is July 15 from 7 to 10:30 at the Community Youth Center; appointments can be made at 309-945-7499. The food pantry opens July 19th from 3 to 5 PM at 123 West Exchange Street. Street. A Gray Matters volleyball fundraiser follows July 25. Check the village website at https://www.cambridgeil.org/ and the "Village of Cambridge" Facebook page for full schedules and updates.

OSF HealthCare is offering hands-on STEAM learning opportunities for students interested in science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Samantha Rux of OSF Saint Luke Medical Center says families can explore take-home labs, including a squid dissection kit, virtual shark lessons, activity books, and augmented-reality tools featuring 3D models of organs such as the heart, brain, and lungs. One featured kit lets students dissect a squid while learning about ocean life. OSF also offers virtual labs, mobile learning tools, and visits from innovation team members for schools and events. Recent STEAM camps served students in several Illinois communities, with possible future programs in Kewanee. More information is available at steam.osfhealthcare.org.

Dustin Williams has announced plans to run for mayor of Galva during an interview on Wake Up Tri-Counties with Ken Peel and Jennifer Russell. Speaking with Ken Peel on Wake Up Tri-Counties, Williams said his involvement in local CO₂ project discussions helped shape his decision, emphasizing the need for residents to stay informed and heard. Williams says his campaign will focus on transparency, community engagement, and preserving Galva’s small-town character. Williams plans to connect with residents through Facebook, at his automotive shop in Galva (Williams Collision and Restoration, 215 SE 8th Avenue), and eventually through a dedicated campaign page. He pointed to his involvement in local discussions surrounding the CO₂ project as part of what motivated him to seek office. Williams says residents deserve clear information, including data on air quality and the potential impact of carbon sequestration tied to ethanol production. He encourages residents to contact him through "Facebook" or stop by his shop in Galva to share concerns and ideas.

Sheldon Miller joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the 50th anniversary of Hooppole Fun Day. Hooppole Fun Day is marking a major milestone in 2026, celebrating 50 years alongside America 250. The big day is set for Saturday, June 27th, beginning with pie judging at 9:15 at the fire station, followed by the parade at 10. The schedule is packed with family favorites, including the kids’ pedal pull, penny scramble, frog races, mud volleyball, bingo, Rolle Bolle, bags, carnival games, and the Lil Mr. and Miss Hooppole presentation at 5:30. The Dani Lynn Howe Band plays from 7 to 11, with America 250-themed fireworks at dusk. Details are on Facebook at "Hooppole Fun Day."

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss West Nile Virus, Men's Health Week and Month, the WIC Program, radon test kits, and the Henry County Fair. Henry and Stark County health officials are highlighting several summer health reminders. During National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, residents are urged to reduce standing water, use EPA-approved repellents, and report stagnant water to help prevent West Nile virus. Free rapid HIV testing will be offered on June 26th at First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon. June is also National Safety Month, and radon test kits are available for $15, with elevated levels found in many local homes. Families can also apply for WIC assistance in person or online. For details, call 309-852-0197 or visit henrystarkhealth.com.

Regional Media Film Critic Sean Kernan reviews Toy Story 5. With their latest kid, Bonnie, receiving her first tech toy, Lilypad, voiced by Greta Lee, our favorite toys find themselves once again on the verge of being shelved. But plucky Jessie (Joan Cusack) won't go down without a fight. With her trusty horse, she follows Bonnie to a sleepover but things go awry and Jessie ends up at a familiar looking farm where she's forced to rely on an outdated tech product to help her get back to Bonnie and, perhaps, help Bonnie make a new friend.

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.