Congratulations to the Nashville Junior Hornettes for finishing 3rd in Class M at state this year. Big Jake chats with Head Coach Tierney Moore, and 8th graders Kinley Povolish, Ryann Goforth, Calleigh Dees, and Andi Gale.

 

The Mt. Vernon Township High School Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) stopped by Big Jake's show this morning to chat about their 16th Annual Blackout Game Fundraiser. The event takes place at MVTHS during the Rams game on 2/11 vs. Marion. This fundraiser helps offset the costs for FBLA to attend the State Conference in March. There are business sponsorships available for space on the shirts and there will be shirts available for sale to the general public. More information, sponsorship options, or to order a shirt, contact FBLA's Adviser Julie Hayes at jhayes@mvths.org or by calling 618-246-1828.

 
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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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Regional Recruiters Makyla & Whitney join Big Jake to discuss Deaconess Illinois' upcoming Healthcare Hiring Event in Mt. Vernon.

They are inviting healthcare professionals and job seekers to attend an upcoming Healthcare Hiring Event on Tuesday, July 29, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Deaconess Illinois Crossroads Conference Center, 8 Doctors Park, Mt. Vernon, IL.

This walk-in style event will offer attendees the opportunity to connect directly with department leaders, HR representatives and clinic managers to learn more about available positions and take part in on-the spot interviews.

Deaconess Illinois is actively hiring for a variety of roles, including:

• Registered Nurses (RNs)

• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)

• Clinical and non-clinical support staff

• …and many more roles essential to delivering high-quality care.

Job seekers are encouraged to bring a copy of their resume and come prepared to speak with hiring managers and leadership representatives.

“This event reflects our ongoing investment in people and our commitment to growing a strong, compassionate healthcare workforce,” said Thomas Rye, MBA, PHR, Deaconess Illinois Director of Human Resources. “As we continue building a new era of care at Deaconess Illinois, we are looking for healthcare professionals who are passionate about excellence and patient-centered care,” said Desireé R. Stumpf, MJ, BSN, RN, HACP-CMS, SSGB, Deaconess Illinois Crossroads Chief Nursing Officer. “Whether you’re early in your career or seeking your next opportunity, we welcome you to explore what Deaconess Illinois has to offer.”

To explore open positions in advance, visit deaconess.com/careers.

 
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