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.

Stay tuned to the Henry County Fair website for updates to the daily schedule.

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 bhha@mymctc.net. 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.

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.

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 epeed@cityofkewanee.net.

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 mminx@cityofkeewaunee.net or 309-853-1911.

Braveheart CAC relies on donations and grants to provide vital services to children of physical and sexual abuse. Visit "Donate to Braveheart" to contribute.

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 jackie@braveheartcac.org 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

“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.

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.

• 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

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.

Listen to Sean’s review from today’s Back Road Lunch on the Hog Country Radio Network.

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."

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.

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.

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."

Lending a hand at Hammond-Henry Hospital means making a difference every day. Volunteers serve in numerous roles, from greeting visitors and assisting at the information desk to arranging flowers and supporting long-term care residents with special activities. Students in grades 8-12 can join the Junior Volunteer Program and gain valuable experience. Hospital volunteers also contribute behind the scenes—helping with office tasks, delivering mail, or even driving shuttles for patients.

Those interested in making a difference at Hammond-Henry Hospital can begin by filling out an application, either in person at the Volunteer Office or by requesting one via email at volunteer@hammondhenry.com. Next, schedule an interview by calling 309.944.9130, attend a volunteer orientation, and commit to a monthly volunteer schedule. Volunteers can take their support further by joining the Hammond-Henry Hospital Auxiliary, a group dedicated to planning educational and fundraising activities.

Phil Kerpen is fiercely criticizing proposed 10% interest rate caps on credit cards, calling them “disastrous” price controls. He warns that millions—especially subprime borrowers—could lose access to credit if banks can’t cover losses from risk and fraud. Kerpen contends such caps would force lenders to cut off high-risk consumers, dismantle popular rewards programs, and replicate historical failures from past government intervention in markets. He targets both Donald Trump and progressive politicians for supporting the cap, warning of a potential “government-run lending” scenario. Kerpen remains adamant that market forces, not regulations, should determine credit card interest rates.

American Commitment is taking an active role in shaping U.S. policy debates centered on free markets and limited government. Under the leadership of Phil Kerpen, the organization works to influence outcomes through advocacy, strategic analysis, and grassroots mobilization. By collaborating with key partners, American Commitment provides swift and impactful policy research aimed at advancing economic growth and safeguarding property rights. Kerpen’s background, including his time at Americans for Prosperity and other major organizations, brings substantial expertise to the cause. The group aims to bridge the gap between policy research institutions and on-the-ground activism, amplifying the free-market voice nationwide.

Due to the cancellation of Easter weekend tag days, the Sunshine Community Services Center is encouraging the community to support their Stepladder tutoring program through online and in-store donations. Contributions can be made on their website, www.sunshinecsc.com, via PayPal or credit card, or mailed to their Kewanee P.O. Box 405. Save-A-Lot in Kewanee is also running a roundup campaign with no end date set. The center, dedicated to helping middle school students catch up academically, especially in math and reading, continues to offer free after-school and summer tutoring, funded entirely through community support and fundraising.

So, tell us a little bit about Catrelle. Who was he? "Of course, that's my brother, my life, my better half, man, but he was just a father; he worked, drove semis, fished, he's real big on family. He'd give you anything, and he was in a point of trying to better his life, finding his Lord. That's where he was at; that's where we both was at, that's where we, you know, trying to change. But he was a real good person, though, you know, like, just kind, and like I said, he'd give you anything, you know what I'm saying?"

So, he was missing for about a week. How did you guys handle the search for Catrelle during that week and just the waiting? "Man, I just, all I could do, man, was just, I can't even, man, all I could do, man, was just keep praying and hoping to God, man, and that was, like, the worst time of my life, man, that week, like, the worst time, man, like, you just didn't know what to do, man."

Hear Zaffery talk about his brother and the pain he and his family have felt since Catrelle's death almost a year ago. 

Background: On May 22, 2025, Catrelle Reed, 39, didn't show up to his job as a truck driver. His glasses and the contents of his lunch box were found on the ground in his yard. His vehicle was found abandoned around a block away from his home. His phone was found on the ground near the old boiler shop property. Catrelle was reported missing to the Kewanee Police on May 22nd. Family and friends organized grid searches around his home and on roads leaving town. Authorities conducted investigations and conducted searches based on tips. On May 30th, family and friends received news regarding a body discovered in a wooded area on Highway 81 outside Kewanee that could be Catrelle. An autopsy on June 2nd confirmed the identity of the person found as Catrelle and the manner of death as homicide.

Since 1957, the Kewanee Area United Way has been dedicated to supporting residents in Henry and Stark Counties. Through decades of service and several name changes, the mission remains unchanged: fostering health, education, and stability for local families. With 75% of area students qualifying for free or reduced-cost lunches, the need for community support is significant. Nonprofit agencies, carefully selected each year by the board, receive funding to continue essential programs. Donations help keep these initiatives—and the community—moving forward. The KAUW supports agencies, including the Salvation Army, Braveheart CAC, Abilities Plus, the Kewanee Food Pantry, Freedom House, the Girl and Boy Scouts, the Henry County Senior Center, after-school programs, youth services, and many more. Find the full list of KAUW recipients at https://kauw.org/agencies.

The Kewanee Area United Way is urging residents to take action in battling poverty right here at home. Donations—large or small—go directly to vital services like food assistance and community programs in Henry and Stark Counties. Flexible giving options include one-time, monthly, or payroll-deducted gifts. There’s also an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy through wills or endowments. Find more details or make your gift online at kauw.org/donation, drop off a donation to Kewanee Area United Way, 200 East South Street, or by mail to PO Box 426, Kewanee, IL.

Here’s how you can make a difference in your community: The Kewanee Area United Way is looking for passionate individuals ready to play a key role in driving positive change across Henry and Stark Counties. Opportunities include volunteering with office projects, taking part in hands-on community impact work, joining the fundraising team, or even stepping up as a board member. Board Members help guide the direction of United Way by selecting agencies and making decisions that benefit families and neighbors. To get involved or learn more, contact the KAUW office at 309-761-8447 or email kewaneeareaunitedway@kewanee.com, or click the volunteer button on their website.

The Kewanee Area United Way continues its long-standing mission to unite residents, agencies, and businesses in addressing the core challenges faced by Henry and Stark counties. By forging partnerships with government, non-profit, and for-profit organizations, the United Way streamlines services, maximizing the impact of every dollar contributed by the community. Serving the area for over 50 years, the organization ensures that all donations remain local, directly benefiting individuals and families in need. With programs that touch nearly 40% of area residents, the United Way fosters collaboration and resource sharing, strengthening the safety net that helps neighbors help one another.

Health challenges continue to affect Kewanee residents, with many adults and children lacking insurance and facing barriers to affordable care. Inadequate prenatal support remains a concern, while obesity rates are rising across age groups. Local data also indicates growing mental health needs, particularly related to depression, and limited access to substance abuse prevention and rehabilitation services. The situation is further complicated as the elderly population is projected to double over the next 20 years. Community efforts are focused on increasing access to health and dental services, preventive care, and nutrition education, aiming for a healthier future for all residents.

The Kewanee community faces a critical education challenge as many local children are at risk of dropping out before finishing high school. Studies show that early learning lays the foundation for future success, but disadvantaged students often start behind and struggle to catch up. United Way of Kewanee is stepping in by funding programs that help children develop social and cognitive skills, stay on track with reading, and transition smoothly through school years. Improving graduation rates can lower poverty, reduce crime, and even increase voter participation. Strong support from families, schools, and the broader community remains essential for lasting impact.

Financial hardship continues to challenge many families in Kewanee, with a significant number struggling to earn a livable wage. Stagnant incomes combined with rising costs for essentials like housing, healthcare, and education are forcing some households to make difficult choices. United Way of Kewanee is responding with the Financial Stability Partnership, offering support through tax assistance and financial education programs. These initiatives aim to empower families to meet basic needs and establish a path toward long-term security. The organization is seeking volunteers to ensure these services continue, and anyone interested can participate, no financial background required.

The Kewanee Salvation Army continues its commitment to supporting the local community through vital services like housing, utility assistance, toiletries, non-perishable food, and clothing. Eddie Tolliver highlighted the organization’s strong partnership with KAUW, emphasizing how local contributions directly benefit Kiwanee residents—funding is used for emergency responses as well as ongoing needs. After recent tornadoes, the alliance quickly provided gift cards and supplies, demonstrating flexibility in times of crisis. Donations to the red kettles around Kewanee and dropped off at the store on N Tremont Street remain local, ensuring help reaches neighbors in need. Visit their website for more information.

At Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center, kids and teens who’ve faced abuse or witnessed crime now find comfort and support without having to repeatedly share their traumatic stories. Braveheart brings together professionals from DCFS, police, the State’s Attorney’s Office, and other advocates in one place. Children tell their story once, in a safe setting, while a multidisciplinary team observes via video, making the process less stressful. Braveheart guides families through investigations and the court, keeping everyone informed and offering resources, advocacy, and emotional support. Since its start in Cambridge in 1999, Braveheart has expanded to several counties, ensuring every child has access to a compassionate community.

Visit their website to make a donation and see a full list of items they need regularly. The Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center is calling on community members for support through donations of everyday necessities. Items such as juice boxes, bottled water, individually wrapped snacks, and granola bars bring comfort to children during difficult conversations. Gas cards, especially $10 cards from Casey’s, help families access vital medical exams and therapy sessions across the region. Everyday essentials like cleaning supplies, toilet paper, printer paper, and Forever Stamps also make a significant difference. All donated items must be new and unopened. For more details or to arrange a donation, email jackie@braveheartcac.org or visit the center in Cambridge.