Courtney Beal with the U of I Extension (Bond-Clinton-Jefferson-Marion-and Washington Counties) sits down with Big Jake to discuss their current canned food drive going on that will see a big push during the Mt. Vernon Rams game on Saturday, 2/8.

 

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)

 
...

It’s time for Market Days at Veterans Park in Mt. Vernon! Market Days is the second Saturday of May, June, August and September from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join LoLo for our live broadcast this Saturday starting at 9am as we kick off the first weekend of Mt. Vernon Market Days with a radio party. Enjoy indoor and outdoor vendors with crafts, specialty items, flea market finds and more. Get your fair food fix from a variety of food vendors and have fun with a different theme each month! In May we celebrate Mother’s Day! The first 200 ladies to stop by the information tent receive a special gift. Visit enjoymtvernon.com for more information.  

 
...

Dale from RHHD and Kevin from Sleep in Heavenly Peace joined Big Jake's show this morning to discuss an upcoming bed-build event at the dealership. SHP is an organization that builds and delivers beds to children ages 3-17 who don’t have one. Their current coverage area covers Marion, Clinton, and Jefferson counties in Southern Illinois. Check out their Facebook page or shpbeds.org for more information. 

 
...