Executive Director Nat Shook joins Big Jake's show to discuss a new initiative by United Way of South Central Illinois designed to support teachers in enhancing or building their classroom libraries. Teachers can now request specific books they need for their students, ensuring every child has access to the educational resources necessary for a successful learning experience.

This program was inspired by our joint venture with the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, where we discovered the significant need for books in classroom libraries. United Way Reads aims to fill this gap by providing essential educational materials to teachers.

How You Can Help:

Book Donations: Check our website and Facebook page for a list of requested books. If you have any of the listed books and wish to donate, please drop them off at:

📍 123 S 10th St., Suite 202, Mt. Vernon, IL.

Amazon Wish List: Prefer to purchase books online? Visit our Amazon Wish List for a complete list of requested books. Your purchase will be sent directly to our office, ready to be distributed to teachers in need.

Teachers: You can apply for books directly on our website or by clicking the following link: https://forms.gle/mmNb3inTWR2RPFaZ8.

By supporting United Way Reads, you are directly contributing to the educational success and future of our community’s youth. Together, we can ensure that every child has the resources they need to thrive. Thank you for your generosity and commitment to making a difference!

 

Angela & McKenzie stop by the show to discuss the MASSIVE amount of events taking place in downtown Mt. Vernon and the surrounding Jefferson County area this weekend.

https://enjoymtvernon.com/events/

 
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Angela & Jason hop on the radio with Big Jake to give some updates and insight to all that is happening during Mt. Vernon Fall Fest. It takes place Friday, September 27th & Saturday, September 28th in downtown Mt. Vernon on 9th Street. More details at mtvfestivals.com!

 
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The Wolfe Cattle Company proudly presents McCoy Rodeo’s Extreme Bull Bash and country concerts, Friday, March 28th and Saturday, March 29th at the Southern Illinois Center, located within the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds. Cord joins Big Jake's show to get you ready for the adrenaline pumping, bull riding action!

 

 Prepare for the heart-pounding thrill of the 8-second ride as cowboys strive to conquer the bulls for points and prizes.

 On Friday,  March 28th, Drew Baldridge will be the music headliner. A Southern Illinois native currently making waves in the Tennessee music scene, Baldridge will captivate the audience with his new single, "Tough People," alongside his recently acclaimed viral hit, "She's Somebody's Daughter," which achieved number one status.

On Saturday, March 29, country music superstar Trace Adkins will be performing! Adkins, who has sold over 11 million albums, charted more than 20 singles, and earned numerous awards and Grammy nominations, has garnered over two billion streams. Adkins, originally scheduled to perform at the 2024 Du Quoin Rodeo, had to cancel due to a leg injury.

 All rodeo tickets, including VIP tickets, grant entry to the concert, and concert-only tickets are also available. Please note that rodeo-only tickets are not offered, making this a truly unique and exclusive experience.

 VIP tickets include bleacher seating, access to the VIP section of the concert, and food and drink until the concert begins.

 Doors for the rodeo will open at 5 PM each night, with the rodeo starting at 6:30 PM. For concert-only attendees, doors will open at 8 PM, and the concert will begin at 9 PM.

Tickets and show information will be available at wolfecattlecompany.com.

 
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