Tony Wielt, your local State Farm Agent in Mt. Vernon stopped by the Big Jake show this morning to discuss the upcoming Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce Home & Outdoor Expo at the Times Square Mall.

 

Ava Tolley & Shaylen Rowland from the MVTHS FFA join Big Jake to discuss their upcoming BBQ Scholarship Fundraiser on 10/3/25.

 

 

 
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Big Jake invites Paul Shields with Allstate Insurance in Mt. Vernon to come sit in on his chat with Elijah & Nicole Adkins. This month you can save on insurance, win some prizes, and help a local family in need. Nolan Adkins is a 4-year-old from our area that is winning, but still recovering from, his fight with cancer. Obviously costs add up and still to this day since being diagnosed, the family is dealing with the costs of care. During the month of March, txt the name "NOLAN" to the Paul Shields, Allstate Insurance text line at 618-242-0094 to get a link for an insurance quote. For every new quote, Paul will donate $20 to the Adkins Family and there is no obligation to you to donate nor agree to switch insurance providers. Paul just wants the chance to potentially help you but for sure, this local family. By participating, you'll also be in the drawing for a jumbo adult Easter egg containing a $100 Visa gift cart, free food gift certificates, chocolate, some Allstate swag, and so much more!

 
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United We Stand: A Weekend of Unity, Culture, and Community Connection

Mark your calendars for August 8th and 9th as United Way of South Central Illinois proudly presents United We Stand, a two-day celebration dedicated to embracing diversity, building bridges of understanding, and strengthening the bonds that tie our community together.

Friday, August 8 – United We Stand

A Meal with Meaning

(Centralia)

Begin the weekend with a moving community gathering at the United We Stand Dinner in Centralia.

 Featured Speakers:

  • Alex Kor, son of Holocaust survivors Mickey and Eva Kor, will share his family’s powerful story and speak about compassion, remembrance, and the importance of standing united in the face of injustice.
  • Dr. Linda & Carl Flowers, respected community leaders and educators, will offer insight on the importance of connection, understanding, and resilience in building a stronger Southern Illinois.

 Dinner Provided By:

Chammies Food for the Soul — enjoy a delicious soul-filled meal that nourishes both body and spirit.

 This event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited - ticket required - click here for ticket.

Saturday, August 9 – United We Stand Cultural Festival (Mt. Vernon)

The celebration continues Saturday at the brand-new Commons Park in Mt. Vernon with a full day of global flavors, local artists, music, and cultural exploration.

 Speaker: Alex Kor

Alex will speak with a heartfelt message about healing, resilience, and the power of shared history.

 Featured Artists:

  • Brandy Mount
  • Cortez Hodges
  • Robbie Edwards
  • Janis Steury
  • Vanessa Thomas

 Live Entertainment:

  • Performances by Center Stage
  • Local talents throughout the day.

 Food Vendors:

  • Chammies Food for The Soul – Southern cuisine
  • Joe's Pizza – Local favorite
  • Jee Family – Representing Canada
  • Papa Knocks – Comfort food & soul favorites
  • Crazy Asian Eats – Asian fusion flavors

吝 Family Fun:

A fun and educational way to explore the world!

 Free and open to the public — bring the whole family!

Why It Matters

In a time when connection matters more than ever, United We Stand is an opportunity to share stories, build bridges, and create lasting memories with neighbors near and far. Let’s come together to celebrate who we are — and who we can become — side by side.

 Save the Dates:

  • Friday, August 8 – United We Stand Dinner (Centralia)
  • Saturday, August 9 – United We Stand Cultural Festival (Mt. Vernon Commons)

 
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