Regional Media Podcast Network

Kewanee Parks Director Andy Dwyer joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the extension for soccer registration, the splash pad, a dog park at Chautauqua Park, and the lake in Widmont Park. The park district set another record for soccer registration, with 370 kids signed up for summer soccer. Baker Park Golf Course will open for the season on Friday, March 28, 2025. Stay tuned to the Kewane Park District Facebook page for day-to-day updates on the golf course until the weather improves for the season. 

State Representative Dan Swanson is championing a new bill aimed at addressing the growing issue of alpha-gal syndrome in Illinois. Known commonly as "the red meat allergy," this tick-borne ailment results from a sugar molecule, alpha-gal, which causes allergic reactions to mammalian products. Recent data highlights Illinois as a hotspot for this underdiagnosed condition. Swanson emphasizes the critical need for more awareness and data to improve patient care. His mother is among those affected, underscoring his commitment to this cause. HB1754, now in its third reading, is crucial for better management and understanding of the syndrome.

State Representative Dan Swanson is championing a new bill aimed at addressing the growing issue of alpha-gal syndrome in Illinois. Known commonly as "the red meat allergy," this tick-borne ailment results from a sugar molecule, alpha-gal, which causes allergic reactions to mammalian products. Recent data highlights Illinois as a hotspot for this underdiagnosed condition. Swanson emphasizes the critical need for more awareness and data to improve patient care. His mother is among those affected, underscoring his commitment to this cause. HB1754, now in its third reading, is crucial for better management and understanding of the syndrome.

Shirley, Lisa, and, Allison joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the free meals for veterans and first responders, meals for the homeless, and a free Easter meal. Tres Café Kewanee is strengthening community connections with its generous offer of free meals to veterans and first responders. Shirley Chu and her business partner, Max Organista, extend this gesture every Tuesday for veterans and Thursday for first responders, available from 6 AM to 8 PM. Since 2020, Tres Café has provided around 70,000 meals, demonstrating a deep-rooted commitment to gratitude and support. Shirley, a cancer survivor, draws from her second chance at life to lead this mission of helping others. Charities interested in collaboration can connect with Shirley at 309-761-8088. Tres Café’s deeds exemplify community spirit and appreciation.

Her Galesburg and Abingdon locations work with local charities to feed the homeless, veterans, and first responders. They also have volunteer help to deliver meals to those who are unable to travel to the restaurant. They have expanded these services in Kewanee as well. Beginning in April, Tres Café will begin providing free meals to the homeless population. 

Tres Tres Café is launching its free holiday meal initiative on Easter in Kewanee. Shirley said giving back and helping people is the right thing to do, and is giving a free meal for Easter, with no questions asked. Call the Kewanee location at 309-761-8088 to order a meal for pickup on Easter by April 13, 2025, to allow adequate time for them to prepare the meals. 

Dr. Jeffrey Johnson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the upcoming "Great Gatsby" fundraiser for the Kewanee Schools Foundation. The Kewanee Schools Foundation invites all to ‘An Evening with The Great Gatsby’ on April 12, 2025, at the Midland Golf Club. This event commemorates 35 years of dedication to the Kewanee Community Unit School District. With a roaring 1920s theme, the gathering aims to raise $25,000 for an Outdoor Fitness Court at Kewanee High School and bolster the Foundation’s Unrestricted Fund. Tickets are available starting at $60 before March 31st and $65 after March 31st, offering an opportunity to support educational initiatives while enjoying a night of elegance and nostalgia. Exciting news from the Kewanee Schools Foundation as they gear up to disburse over $150,000 in scholarships for the class of 2025. Find out more about their scholarships here.

For more details or to contribute, visit their website or Facebook page, call the foundation at 309-856-8702, or their office at 1001 N. Main Street, Kewanee, IL 61443.

For more information or to register for the event, please contact foundation assistant Mindi Goard at [email protected] or 309-856-8702. Online registration and donations may also be made on the Foundation’s website at www.kewaneeschoolsfoundation.org.

Dr. Ally David, DC, ATC, from Hammond-Henry Hospital, joined Tom Katz for "Here's to Your Health" on Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the potential chiropractic treatments for athletes, children, and expectant mothers. Learn how chiropractic methods can enhance well-being and improve performance. Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or an expectant mother seeking relief, this segment promises valuable information on holistic health practices. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation on innovative care approaches.

Her expertise promises to advance holistic health practices within the hospital, supporting both performance and overall well-being. While she hasn't yet commenced consultations, anticipation builds as Hammond-Henry Hospital prepares to benefit from Dr. David’s unique skills. Join in extending a hearty welcome as she embarks on this promising venture.

In Illinois, March 25, 2025, is designated as Equal Pay Day to highlight ongoing wage disparities, as stated by State Senator Celina Villanueva. Despite the Equal Pay Act of 1963, the pay gap persists, with women earning significantly less than men. Senate Resolution 158 emphasizes the disparities for various groups: Asian American women reach parity on April 7th to bridge the gap, Black women until July 10th, and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander women until Aug. 28th. Latinas must work until Oct. 8th, Disabled women until Oct. 23rd, and Native women until Nov. 18th. Moms face a significant pay gap as well, with their Equal Pay Day falling on May 6th, and LGBTQIA+ individuals must work until June 17th. The resolution encourages public awareness and action to address these inequalities. Villanueva stresses the importance of closing the wage gap for economic justice and equity in Illinois.