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)

 

Tracy with the Walk to End Alzheimer's was in studio on Big Jake's show Tuesday to talk about the upcoming walk in Centralia this Saturday, September 21st. Learn more, sign up, or donate at the link below!

https://act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk2024/MO-GreaterMissouri?pg=entry&fr_id=17725

 
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Future Business Leaders of America is a student organization for motivated students who want to have fun and grow as leaders. FBLA is a student leadership organization with many facets. While business is in the name, careers and leadership development programs benefits all students. Mt. Vernon Township High School's FBLA Adviser Julie Hayes and 2 MVTHS Seniors joined Big Jake's show this morning to chat about their program, future plans, and of course their annual Pink-Out Football Game to benefit Breast Cancer Treatment/Research on Friday, 9/13.

The FBLA has hosted this fundraiser since 2012 when the President (at that time) & football player wanted to do a fundraiser for breast cancer because his mother had been diagnosed.

Fans can purchase a Jersey Sponsorship for $100 to get a survivor or someone's name that is/was affected by breast cancer on the back of a Jersey worn by player during the game. That sponsor can also take part in the Jersey Ceremony after the game, where players give their game-worn jersey to the sponsor.

Pinkout Designed Shirts will also be available for purchase via the link below or the day of the game for Short sleeve ($15); Long sleeve ($20) Crew ($25) Hoodie ($35). T-Shirt Pickup at school next Tuesday 9/10. Online: https://shopsilkworm.com/mtvernonpinkout

Business Sponsors are also available. Sponsors get their business logo printed on back of Pinkout Shirts that will be worn LONG after the game on 9/13, all for a $100 donation.

The FBLA will also host a Rubberduck Drop Raffle where Pink rubber ducks dropped from the bucket of fire truck (fire science instructors) and the Duck closest to the "X" wins $100. Tickets can be purchased the night of the game for this too.

  • Contact: Julie Hayes, FBLA Adviser
  • jhayes@muths.org
  • 618-246-1828

 
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Big Jake had royalty in the house today. The 2025 Washington County Fair Queens, Little Miss Paisley Hund, Jr. Miss Maylen Kramper and Miss Washington County Fair Maci Wolf were all guests to talk about what winning means to them and how they hope to best represent their hometown.

 
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