Regional Media Podcast Network

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes was joined by health care providers, students, patients and the Illinois Academy of Physician Associates for a press conference on a new law that would modernize PA practice laws, improving health care access across the state. “Last year, I was proud to sponsor legislation to begin the journey to allow physician assistants to practice to their full potential,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “This year’s Senate Bill 3421 is critical as we face an access to health care crisis in Illinois.” With similar training as nurses and doctors, PAs can provide high-quality health care, but have run into difficulties getting their license approved due to a long, tedious paperwork approval process. Senate Bill 3421 would remove outdated practice barriers for PAs, allowing them to deliver care more effectively and efficiently. The legislation allows PAs to obtain a license to prescribe and administer certain controlled substances without a written agreement from a doctor, as nurses are currently able to do. “This legislation is vital because our healthcare system continues to face increasing strain. Recognizing and empowering PAs in our communities will make a significant impact,” said Timothy Kinsey, a PA in emergency medicine and executive director of IAPA. “They are highly trained professionals who can serve as the first line of defense against serious health issues.” This legislation is crucial as it aligns with the growing demand for health care services while maintaining high standards of safety and quality. “Many communities, including my own, are experiencing medical deserts, and PAs are a vital part of the solution,” said Cervantes. “The federal government has initiated a Rural Health Transformation initiative, and Illinois risks leaving tens of millions of dollars on the table if we do not modernize our PA practice laws. The time to act is now.” Senate Bill 3421 awaits assignment to a legislative committee.

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Heart Health Month, Dr. Ford's retirement, insurance navigators, the new WIC location in Kewanee, and 12 communities in 12 months. February marks American Heart Month, and area health officials are urging residents to prioritize heart health. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are now offering free access to automated blood pressure monitors in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon. Individuals can use these monitors and take home a printout of their results. A new loaner program also allows residents to track blood pressure at home. The new WIC offices in Kewanee are open at 109 South Burr Boulevard, offering expanded services for families. In other news, Dr. Donald Ford retires after nearly five decades of distinguished service. Details about insurance help, WIC applications, and health resources can be found at henrystarkhealth.com. Health insurance navigators are available at several local venues in February to help with coverage questions and enrollment.

Sara Billiet from the Kewanee Public Library District joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the new non-fiction adult book club, the Page Turners Book of the Month, the Virtual Alzheimer's program, Sesame Street story time, and the new Blind Date with a Book Club. The Kewanee Public Library is rolling out a busy February and spring for the community. This month, virtual programs with the Alzheimer’s Association shine a light on understanding dementia, starting February 17 at 3 PM. For book lovers, the longstanding Page Turners fiction club is joined by the new Curious Minds non-fiction club, set to debut with meetings on the last Wednesday of each month. Adults are invited to join a new tabletop gaming club starting March 4. For families, a Sesame Street-themed story time takes place on February 21 at 11:15 AM, complete with crafts and music. Details and updates are available on the library’s website and Facebook page.

Katie Laleman with the Henry County Farm Bureau joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about young leaders at the national convention, the succession planning workshop, "Bushels for Hunger," scholarships, and contests. The Farm Bureau has been bustling with activity, highlighted by recent successes at the American Farm Bureau Federation convention in California, where young local leaders excelled in national competitions. Kate Huffman of Galva made Illinois proud with her strong showing. On the local front, farm families are encouraged to attend a succession planning workshop on February 20th, designed to help with the transition of family farms. Additionally, the Bushels for Hunger initiative continues its impactful run—over $354,000 and 1.77 million meals have been donated to local food banks over 16 years. Information on scholarships and contests is available on the Farm Bureau’s website.

Galva Mayor Rich Volkert joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss plans to replace playground equipment at Wiley Park, using funds from solar revenue, with city staff and volunteers slated to assist with installation this spring. The city council recently sold a surplus box truck for $1,550 and transferred ownership of a Northwest First Avenue property to a nearby resident. A new 20-year lease with Ameren will bring in $125,000 over its term for gas line use. Officials continue to evaluate options for a replacement street sweeper and remind residents about upcoming cemetery cleanup dates and the risks of tax-related scams. Grants were also discussed for maintaining and replanting the city’s trees. Cemetery cleanup begins on March 29th. Items need to be removed from the cemetery before March 29th, and then things can be put back on after April 3rd.

Samantha Rux joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the upcoming blood drive on February 12th and tips for heart health by staying active. February is Heart Month, and local healthcare providers are raising awareness about heart health. OSF Healthcare is hosting a blood drive on Thursday, February 12, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the East-West conference room. Donors can book appointments online at bloodcenter.org, but walk-ins are also welcome. Nearly 800 lives were saved last year through local drives. Experts encourage regular physical activity—150 minutes of cardio exercise a week, with walking and swimming suggested as accessible options. The YMCA offers indoor pools and senior programs, supporting low-impact exercise for all ages. Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference for heart health. As National Blood Donor Month draws to a close, the community celebrates an extraordinary year of generosity with ImpactLife. The past year saw 269 registered donors contributing 282 blood donations, with an estimated 794 lives touched by this collective effort. Organizers hope to carry this spirit forward as they announce the first blood drive of 2026, scheduled for Thursday, February 12th. Residents are encouraged to play their part—just one donation can make a profound difference. To join this lifesaving mission, sign up for the upcoming drive online and help create hope for those in need.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss "Wear Red Day" to honor women's heart health, National Heart Health Month, National Condom Week, insurance navigator events, and the February "12 Communities in 12 Months" at the Kewanee YMCA. Staff at the Henry and Stark County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare wore red today to highlight National Wear Red Day for American Heart Month. This initiative draws attention to women’s heart health, as heart disease is still the nation’s leading cause of death for both genders. Local clinics urge everyone to check their blood pressure and cholesterol, and nurse practitioners in Kewanee and Toulon are ready to help manage risks. Both locations are also offering free condoms and confidential STD testing during National Condom Week, emphasizing the importance of sexual health. For appointments or resources, call 309-852-5272 for Kewanee or 309-852-3115 for Toulon.

In a special Wake Up Tri-Counties interview, former U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See, Frances Rooney, shared insights into his personal friendship with Pope Leo, the first American pope born in Illinois. Rooney recounted their early meetings when Pope Leo was known as "Father Bob," attending board meetings in Tulsa and later leading the Augustinian Order in Rome. Reflecting on Pope Leo’s calm demeanor and his impactful message, Rooney noted the pope’s unique ability to engage with global issues like immigration. Rooney also discussed his time in Congress, work on Everglades preservation, and his book, "The Global Vatican," highlighting the Holy See’s diplomatic influence. Ambassador Francis Rooney boasts a distinguished career spanning diplomacy, business, and public service. Representing Florida’s 19th Congressional District from 2017 to 2021, Rooney was renowned for his bipartisan approach and leadership on climate action, including introducing carbon tax legislation and advocating for Everglades restoration. Prior to Congress, he served as U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See from 2005 to 2008 and authored a book on Vatican-U.S. relations. Rooney led Manhattan Construction Company, overseeing projects like the U.S. Capitol Visitor’s Center and major sports stadiums. He now serves as chairman of the family business, Rooney Holdings. An active board member and fluent in Spanish, Rooney’s contributions reach across public policy, international relations, and environmental advocacy. Born in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Francis Rooney is the eldest of six children in the Rooney family. Pursuing his education in Maryland, Rooney attended the prestigious Georgetown Preparatory School before entering Georgetown University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1975. He continued his studies at Georgetown University Law Center, obtaining his Juris Doctor in 1978. Rooney’s impressive academic journey set the stage for his notable career in business, law, and politics.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties Heart Health Month, Wear Red Day, Insurance Navigators, Kewanee WIC Move, and Vaccines. Henry and Stark County Health Departments are joining the American Heart Association this Friday, February 6, 2026, to promote National Wear Red Day and encourage awareness of heart disease in women. Heart disease claims more lives among women than all forms of cancer combined, yet many underestimate their risk. Residents are urged to wear red to spark conversation and alert loved ones to the dangers. Key risk factors—smoking, high blood pressure, and inactivity—can often be managed with lifestyle changes. Local clinics offer screenings and resources year-round. For more information on risk reduction or tobacco-free programs, contact your local health department or visit their social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Samanta Rux and Chris Willis joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about healthy eating and staying active for a healthy heart during National Heart Month. OSF HealthCare is honoring National Wear Red Day on February 6th. Watch the OSF Saint Luke Facebook page to post photos of you wearing red to honor American Heart Month. Chris Willis, Clinical Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Education Specialist at OSF HealthCare St. Mary Medical Center, is offering advice for those looking to improve their health this year. Drawing on 27 years of experience—and achievements like twice completing the Hawaiian Ironman—Chris highlights the power of setting realistic goals. She encourages individuals to skip fad diets and instead focus on making small, sustainable adjustments in daily routines. These incremental changes, Chris says, build lifelong habits that lead to lasting results. Whether it's healthier food choices or more daily movement, Chris believes practical steps are the foundation of long-term well-being. February 6, 2026, marks National Wear Red Day, a key event during American Heart Month focused on raising awareness about heart disease—the leading cause of death for women. Supporters across the nation are encouraged to wear red clothing, accessories, or lipstick, and to share information and resources about prevention. The American Heart Association's "Go Red for Women" campaign also encourages donations to fund research and advocacy. Participants often post photos on social media with the hashtags #WearRedDay and #OurHearts. National Wear Red Day highlights the importance of heart health, as more than 40% of women in the U.S. have some form of cardiovascular disease.

Samantha Rux and Jessi Sopiars recently joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Swing Bed Services at OSF HealthCare. OSF HealthCare is highlighting the value of its swing bed program at St. Luke’s, a specialized service designed to help patients recover after hospitalization before heading home. The program supports individuals needing extra therapy, such as those recovering from joint replacements, illnesses, or even extended IV antibiotic treatments. Swing bed services allow patients to transition from larger hospitals, bringing them closer to family support in their own community. The process is managed in coordination with Medicare and other insurance providers, with case managers guiding patients through eligibility and paperwork. Hospital staff encourage families to ask about swing bed options and provide feedback through surveys for continuous improvement.

Wyatt Brieser, CEO of Hammond-Henry Hospital, joined the Wake Up Tri-Counties morning show to discuss his recent Who’s Who of America award and his deep roots in the region. Born at the hospital he now leads, Dr. Brieser reflected on his 16-year journey from physical therapist to CEO, crediting strong community support and mentorship for his success. He emphasized the hospital’s commitment to rural healthcare, recent expansions in specialty services, and the challenges rural hospitals face, particularly in maternity care. While Hammond-Henry no longer delivers babies, efforts continue to enhance women’s health and specialty services across the region. Brieser stated his mission is to give back to the community that raised him, consistently striving for excellence in local healthcare.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the new WIC office in Kewanee, cold weather safety, insurance navigators, and National Birth Defects Prevention Month. This January, the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are emphasizing birth defect prevention with the theme “Every Journey Matters.” Officials urge all women of childbearing age to take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, consult healthcare providers about medications, and stay up to date on vaccines. Achieving a healthy weight before pregnancy and avoiding harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco are also recommended steps to lower risk. WIC services offer nutrition support for mothers and children, with a new Kewanee office opening February 3rd at 109 S. Burr Blvd. For local resources or assistance, visit henrystarkhealth.com or call 309-852-0197.

Connie Johnson with the Village of Cambridge joined Wake Up Tri-Counties for the monthly edition of "Cambridge Happenings" to discuss upcoming events in Cambridge. Cambridge residents have plenty of activities to enjoy this chilly February. The local library is inviting everyone to try “Blind Date with a Book,” where visitors select mystery books with only a few clues on the cover—perfect for the upcoming Valentine’s Day. Adults can also reserve a spot for craft night at the library on February 3rd. The Cambridge Community Youth Center is holding a breakfast burrito fundraiser on February 22nd, supporting summer camp opportunities for local children. Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the town’s Easter egg hunt on March 28th, and don’t forget the food pantry’s February 15th opening.

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about surgical services at OSF Saint Luke and healthy living after 50-years-old by Dr. Travis Swink. Former Kewanee mayor Steve Looney has retired after 24 years of service at OSF St. Luke and the broader OSF ministry. Looney most recently held the role of Western Region Director of Environmental Services. OSF staff gathered last week to celebrate his years of leadership and service. In related OSF St. Luke news, surgical offerings have expanded with Dr. Matt Heber joining Dr. Atwell, providing four days of surgery coverage for the community. Routine procedures like colonoscopies can now be done locally, reducing travel for patients. More resources and interviews can be found at newsroom.osfhealthcare.org. Reaching 50 often sparks both reflection and renewed focus on health. Dr. Travis Swink, a family medicine provider with OSF HealthCare, cautions that risks for chronic conditions climb after this milestone, particularly if self-care has slipped. He emphasizes regular physical activity, recommending brisk walking for just 15 minutes twice a day—no marathon required. Strength training with free weights or bands is advised for maintaining muscle without straining joints. Dr. Swink also urges better awareness of nutritional intake, highlighting a move away from carbs toward proteins and non-starchy vegetables. Moderation and consistency, not deprivation, set the tone for a healthier decade ahead.

At the latest Kewanee City Council meeting, officials tackled public safety upgrades, city infrastructure, and ongoing utility billing troubles. Council members weighed deals on ambulance equipment and accepted federal support for security improvements in public buildings. A highlight included honoring Rosabelle Moore’s 102nd birthday for her service to Kewanee. Water billing delays, caused by postal mishaps and rerouting city bills, generated concern, as many residents incurred late fees despite timely payments. The city maintains that missed bills aren’t grounds for waiving fees, though reconnection fees will be credited for some affected customers.

January is National Radon Action Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are reminding residents that radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Affordable radon test kits are available for $15 at local health department offices. As the season shifts, community health experts are also bringing attention to the “winter blues” and more severe forms like Seasonal Affective Disorder, urging those affected to seek support through First Choice Healthcare. For lifesaving skills, monthly CPR certification classes are available, and Health Insurance Navigators will assist community members with coverage options at Geneseo and Alpha locations later this month.

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the February 12, 2026, Blood Drive at OSF Saint Luke Medical Center in Kewanee and the rising respiratory infectious rates in Illinois. January marks National Blood Donor Month, and Samantha Rucks with OSF Healthcare is encouraging Tri-Counties residents to roll up their sleeves and give blood. The next community blood drive at St. Luke Medical Center is scheduled for February 12th from 7 AM to 5 PM. Regular donors are urged to make appointments, but walk-ins are also welcome. There’s a constant need for all blood types, especially O-negative, and local donations primarily serve area patients. Donors can save up to three lives with a single donation and are treated to snacks and small gifts for their generosity. Details can be found at osfsaintluke.org or bloodcenter.org. As respiratory illnesses rise, hospitals remind visitors about potential restrictions and masking policies. If you’re feeling unwell, utilize virtual urgent care or call ahead for appointments to ensure the community stays safe and healthy.

RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the increasing respiratory infection rates, Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, winter travel safety, sick appointments, and vaccines. Health matters are front and center in Henry and Stark counties this January. Local health officials emphasize the importance of cervical cancer prevention, urging regular screenings and HPV vaccinations for women and adolescents. As the flu season ramps up, residents are also encouraged to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, now available at First Choice Healthcare clinics in Kewanee and Toulon. As winter settles in, safety tips include using low-beam headlights, preparing emergency car kits, avoiding carbon monoxide, and preventing frostbite. Free health insurance enrollment assistance will be available at several local venues this month; details are available at henrystarkhealth.com.

Samantha Rux and Kaitlyn McGough from OSF Healthcare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about New Year's health and holiday light recycling. Kate McGough emphasized making small, sustainable steps when considering fitness and nutrition goals for the new year—such as brief daily walks or cutting sugary drinks—to boost both physical and mental health. She also discussed available clinic procedures, including joint injections, skin checks, and breastfeeding consultations. Samantha Rucks reminded listeners that this is the final week to recycle Christmas lights at the hospital lobby and noted the continuation of OSF’s masking policy for staff and encouraged masks for visitors, especially during the uptick in respiratory illnesses. Kaitlyn McGough is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. McGough specializes in preventive care, chronic disease management, and primary care for individuals of all ages. Her arrival is anticipated to boost access to vital health services and support continuity of care throughout the community. McGough earned both her Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees from Southern Illinois University–Edwardsville. She is also preparing for the International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant exam. Appointments can be made at OSF Saint Luke Medical Center in Kewanee by calling 309-852-7700 or visiting OSF’s website.

Amron Buch This year, the Kiwanis Goodfellows program made a major impact in Kewanee, serving 950 households and 2,667 people—about 21% of the Kewanee population—with Christmas food baskets. Over 2,600 individuals received essential groceries, with each basket containing staples like ham, eggs, and canned goods. The grocery bill for 2025 was over $38,317.36. The effort relied on support from community donors, local schools, the Kiwanis Key Club, and dozens of student and adult volunteers. Their hard work saw baskets quickly packed and delivered on schedule. Organizers emphasized that every donation helps and praised the district's young people for their commitment, ensuring no one in Kewanee went hungry during the holidays. Volunteers filled each basket with items from an impressive grocery list—859 boneless hams, over 13,500 canned goods, thousands of eggs, and heaps of fresh fruit, all thanks to countless donors and community partners. The operation involved students, school staff, and local businesses, highlighting the commitment and compassion of board members, educators, and volunteers who made it all possible. Read the full lists below. Goodfellows asks residents to continue supporting their mission to ensure no one goes hungry at Christmas, accepting donations year-round by mail or electronically. Organizers emphasized the power of teamwork and the difference these baskets make for local families. You can donate by mail to Kewanee Good Fellows, PO Box 5, Kewanee, Illinois, 61443; PayPal; or Venmo