Regional Media Podcast Network

Wake Up Tri-Counties RaeAnn Talks Illinois Basics Initiative, Poison Prevention, Nutrition Month, CPR, 12 in 12 Orion, and Insurance Navigators

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the "Basics Initiative, IL," Poison Prevention week, Nutrition Month, monthly CPR classes, 12 Communities in 12 Months for March in Orion, and Insurance Navigators. The Henry and Stark County Health Department is spotlighting National Poison Prevention Week from March 15th to 21st, urging families to make safety a priority. Over two million poisonings occur nationwide every year, most happening at home and affecting young children. Residents are encouraged to secure chemicals and medications, use child-resistant containers, and always check dosages in good light. Poisonous household items include cleaning agents, over-the-counter medicines, and vitamin supplements. Immediate help is available through the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. More tips and resources can be found at henrystarkhealth.com, as the community focuses on keeping families safe.

Wake Up Tri-Counties Chris Willis and Samantha Rux Talk Exercise and Nutrition for National Nutrition Month

Chris Willis and Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about nutrition during National Nutrition Month, emphasizing smart eating habits over fad diets. This year’s campaign, “Discover the Power of Nutrition,” urges listeners to prioritize variety—fill half your plate with colorful veggies, choose diverse protein sources, and limit highly processed foods. Dietitian Chris Willis recommends practical steps: swap sugary drinks for water, try new vegetables, and control portions by pre-packaging snacks. She also highlights affordable options, like canned or frozen produce, and underscores the importance of both daily movement and regular strength training for long-lasting health benefits. Find reliable nutrition facts at EatRight.org.

Contact your primary care medical provider for a referral for nutrition services within OSF HealthCare. Find more information about nutrition services at OSF Healthcare here. 

Representative Tony McCombie

Natalie from The YWCA of The Sauk Valley

Wake Up Tri-Counties Kathy Talks Friends of The Animals Annual Craft Fair on March 28, 2026

The Friends of the Animals annual craft show returns March 28th, running from 9 AM to 2 PM at the American Legion on East 3rd Street. This event, the group’s largest fundraiser, supports families with veterinary bills. Attendees can browse goods from more than a dozen local vendors, including homemade foods and unique crafts. Raffle baskets, featuring items from local businesses and animal-care suppliers, add excitement to the day. All proceeds will help cover veterinary expenses for families struggling with pet care costs. Find more details on the Friends of the Animals Facebook page.

You can donate year-round on the Friends of the Animals account at the Kewanee Vet Clinic and at Friends of the Animals, PO Box 574, Kewanee, IL 61443. For more information, email Kathy at kwerderman77@gmail.com.

Wake Up Tri-Counties Samantha Talks The Visitation Spring Fling Fundraiser on March 21, 2026

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the 2026 Visitation Catholic School Spring Fling on March 21, 2026. Bidding has begun for the 2026 Spring Fling Fundraiser! Bidding ends on March 21, 2026, at 7:30 PM; bid here. Visitation School’s annual Spring Fling gala is set for Saturday, March 21st at the school gym, promising an exciting evening of community spirit and fundraising. Doors open at 5 PM with dinner at 6, followed by Steinhaus Dueling Pianos from 7 to 10. Attendees can join the fun by purchasing dinner and event tickets for $50 or enjoy just the piano show for $25. A highlight is the online auction, featuring experiences like Chicago Cubs and Bears tickets, a Savannah Bananas club box package, and theater outings, alongside themed baskets from each class. The night also includes a drawdown raffle, with a top prize of $1,000. The signature gala serves as the school’s largest fundraiser, supporting academic and extracurricular programs and benefiting local charities. Tickets and more information are available through the school or its website.

Visitation The Catholic School is inviting the community to reserve their spot for the upcoming event. To secure attendance, guests are encouraged to call or visit the school office at (309) 856-7451. Those preferring to pay online can use Venmo; remember to include the number of meal tickets and entertainment-only tickets needed, and mention seating preferences. Each table accommodates up to eight people, so groups are welcome. Don't miss the chance to enjoy an engaging evening supporting local education while spending quality time with friends and family. More information is available by contacting the school directly or visiting their Venmo page.

Visitation Catholic School’s cherished Dinner and Auction fundraiser makes its anticipated return, aiming to boost growth for students, faculty, and programs alike. Recognized for its inclusive community and remarkable alumni, VCS has long welcomed families from every background, providing outstanding education and life preparation. Organizers hope that this year’s event will help bridge critical funding gaps, supporting scholarships, classroom enhancements, and faculty training initiatives. Community members are encouraged to consider donations, ensuring every child continues to benefit from the school’s tradition of excellence. For more information, contact event coordinators Amelia Schiltz at aschiltz@visitationcatholic.com or Kali Nichols at knichols@visitationcatholic.com at Visitation Catholic School.

Wake Up Tri-Counties Alondra Garcia Talks Second Annual Cinco De Mayo Celebration on May 2, 2026

Kewanee is gearing up for its second annual Cinco de Mayo celebration at Northeast Park, set for May 2nd from noon to 5 PM. Visitors can look forward to traditional Mexican cuisine, live performances—possibly including a mariachi band—and a variety of local vendors. Activities for children will feature bounce houses, raffles, and opportunities for young entrepreneurs ages 8 to 17 to sell their goods free of charge. The event will also offer a free health fair with screenings and wellness information. Organizers are actively seeking food vendors, child vendors, and volunteers, especially for kids’ activities. Interested parties can connect via Facebook or by calling 773-542-8389. Organizers invite residents of all ages to join in the festivities and experience a day filled with culture and fun. For those interested, festivities will kick off with plenty to see, taste, and do at Northeast Park.

La ciudad de Kewanee se prepara para una vibrante celebración del Cinco de Mayo en el Parque Northeast, situado en 1200 North Main Street. Organizado por la Comisión de Relaciones Humanas, el evento reunirá a la comunidad con una feria de salud, sabores auténticos de la comida mexicana, música en vivo y entretenimiento para toda la familia. Desde actividades culturales hasta información sobre el bienestar, la jornada promete diversión para asistentes de todas las edades. La entrada no tiene costo y el acceso está abierto a quienes deseen sumarse. Los organizadores invitan a la participación de toda la comunidad local.

The Cinco De Mayo fundraiser in Kewanee is now in full swing, giving residents a chance to support this year’s community celebration. T-shirts and hoodies are on sale, with all proceeds directly benefiting local cultural activities, live music, and family-friendly entertainment planned for the event. These special edition items are available only for a limited period, so community members are encouraged to place their orders soon to ensure they don’t miss out. Organizers emphasize that every purchase goes toward making the celebration memorable for all ages, highlighting Kewanee’s vibrant spirit and commitment to cultural traditions. Order here.

La celebración de Cinco de Mayo en Kewanee impulsa su evento con la venta de camisetas edición especial de color amarillo brillante y sudaderas negras clásicas. Estas prendas no solo muestran el espíritu festivo, sino que cada compra ayuda a financiar más cultura, música y actividades para familias durante la festividad. Los organizadores animan a la comunidad a apoyar la causa comprando en línea a través del enlace disponible. Esta iniciativa busca fortalecer la participación local y garantizar una experiencia vibrante para todos los asistentes al tradicional evento de Mayo en Kewanee. Ordene aquí.

Emily and Denise with The Whiteside County Senior Center