WTVP
Central Illinois Weekend Guide (May 15–17): Music, Comedy, Festivals & More!
- Title
- Central Illinois Weekend Guide (May 15–17): Music, Comedy, Festivals & More!
- Runtime
- 1:56
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Mark Welp brings you Living It Up, your go-to weekend guide for fun in Central Illinois, May 15–17! Enjoy performances from the Peoria Symphony Orchestra’s Grand Slam, the Prairie Wind Ensemble finale, and the Heartland Festival Orchestra’s country showcase, plus laughs with Whose Live Anyway or John Caparulo in Bloomington. Explore local history, Springfest in Pekin, and Parks on Tap—there’s something for everyone this weekend!
- Title
- Navarro Farm Part 1 | A Shot of Ag | ep 635
- Runtime
- 26:18
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Damion and Sherri Navarro of Frankfort, Illinois never planned to farm, but the birth of their son Carter with Down syndrome led them on an unexpected path. What began as land for their construction business has grown into a farm dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities and building a meaningful community. (Part one.)
- Title
- LiV Warfield: Choosing Not to Hide
- Runtime
- 25:46
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Peoria native LiV Warfield joins Blake Wirth to trace her journey from a shy student who hid her voice to an electrifying performer who worked with Prince and earned a Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent. She reflects on returning home to perform with the Peoria Symphony Orchestra, while a Vibe Check visits rehearsals and her mother, Bessie, shares memories of her creative childhood.
- Title
- The Big Table | At Issue with Mark Welp | Ep. 332
- Runtime
- 26:37
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Last August, my guests talked about how you could have a say in the future of this region. The Big Table events allowed residents to share ideas with business leaders, public officials and your neighbors. The 2025 Big Table report is now available and we are taking a deep dive into what it shows us. We’ll talk about what you think Peoria needs to be able to thrive and how we can get there.
- Title
- 5/7/2026 | Marcel The Shell, Millie and Barbara | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:28
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Marcel The Shell, Millie and Barbara. Marcel the Shell has beautiful blue eyes and a white coat. He is a two-month-old, domestic shorthair kitten. Marcel's sister Millie is also available for adoption. She looks a lot different than Marcel but is just as cute! Barbara is a ten-month-old Beagle mix. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 5/7/2026 | Tiffany, Sandy and Colt | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Tiffany, Sandy and Colt. Tiffany is a solid, domestic shorthair cat. She is four-years-old. There is no such thing as a perfect dog, but Sandy comes close! She is a three-year-old Labrador who knows basic commands. She also walks well on a leash and is housebroken! Colt is a black and white Labrador. He is eight-years-old and knows basic commands. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- Living It Up: Top Things to Do in Central Illinois | May 8–10 Weekend Guide
- Runtime
- 2:01
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Explore the Rennick Art Show at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, catch Peoria Chiefs baseball, and see Motown legends The Four Tops and The Temptations live. Enjoy Sleeping Beauty by the Central Illinois Ballet, rail-themed fun for National Train Day at Wheels O’ Time Museum, jazz in Galesburg, flea market treasures, family festivals, and a Jerry Garcia tribute.
- Title
- Power, Fire and the Choices Shaping a Greener Illinois
- Runtime
- 27:01
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Mark Welp examines the growing data center fight and Illinois's proposed POWER Act, then visits a Macomb homeowner who eliminated fossil fuels with electric appliances, heat pumps and solar. The episode also explores prescribed burns and the Clean Water Celebration, where students learn conservation through seed libraries and hands-on activities.
- Title
- Ron Meador | Welding Yard Art | A Shot of Ag | ep 634
- Runtime
- 26:22
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Ron Meador of Chadwick, Illinois grew up on his uncle’s farm where watching machinery repairs sparked an interest in welding. After attending vocational welding school, he built a career as a welder and spent 36 years hauling for DeKalb Feeds. Using salvaged truck parts, he began creating yard art during his wife’s illness and now crafts one-of-a-kind pieces that bring joy to others.
- Title
- Robin Raymer: From Plaster Man to Artist and Author
- Runtime
- 25:15
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Christine Zak-Edmonds talks with Canton artist, author and cartoonist Robin Raymer about the winding path behind his creative work. Raymer shares stories from Successories, Pete and Peaches and the Starfish Club, and explains the personal meaning hidden in his illustrations, including five birds that represent his family.
- Title
- Joe Chianakas | At Issue with Mark Welp | Ep. 331
- Runtime
- 26:45
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- A central Illinois teacher is helping to inspire young people to be authentic and kind, not just in the classroom, but in the young adult novels he writes. Author and professor Joe Chianakas is a long-time Peoria area educator and joins us to talk about his books and a national TV appearance you can see right here on WTVP!
- Title
- 4/30/2026 | Bower, Sam Eagle and Luke | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:33
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Bower, Sam Eagle and Luke.
Bower is a large, domestic shorthair cat. He is two-years-old. Sam Eagle wants to find a forever home. He is a mixed breed, two-year-old boy. Luke is a senior, but still has energy. He is a ten-year-old Beagle mix. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 4/30/2026 | Exclamation Point, Semi Colon and Camilla | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Exclamation Point, Semi Colon and Camilla. We have double black magic this week! Exclamation Point and Semi Colon are two-month-old, domestic shorthair sisters. Camilla is a shy, but sweet mixed breed dog. She is two-years-old. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- Living It Up: Central Illinois Weekend Fun | May 1–3
- Runtime
- 1:56
- Date posted
- 6 months ago
- Description
- Looking for fun this weekend in central Illinois? Living It Up has you covered for May 1–3. From the popular Luthy Botanical Garden Plant Sale and Friday Night Heights to Peoria Ballet's Swan Lake with the Peoria Symphony, civic chorale concerts, and Cinco de Mayo festivities on the Peoria riverfront, there’s something for everyone. Plus, pro wrestling returns with AEW Collision, Route 66 celebrations kick off, the Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market opens, and 90s rock band Filter hits the stage. 🎶🌿🎭
- Title
- Steve Lucie | A Shot of Ag | ep 633
- Runtime
- 27:07
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Cowboys don’t just live in Yellowstone. Steve Lucie is a fifth-generation rancher and farmer from Basco, Illinois who’s not just “all hat and no cattle.” He raises cattle, corn, beans and wheat, farming with his brothers.
- Title
- Understanding Obesity and Weight-Loss Options
- Runtime
- 26:46
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Mark Welp talks with Carle Health’s Dr. David Tennant about obesity as a chronic disease. They discuss BMI, common myths, ultra-processed foods, healthy eating, exercise, weight-loss medications such as GLP-1 drugs, possible side effects and how patients can find an approach that fits their health needs.
- Title
- Robert Bee | At Issue with Mark Welp | Ep. 330
- Runtime
- 26:31
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Ten years ago, Pekin teenager Robert Bee was found murdered. Now police have arrested a suspect. We talk with an investigator and filmmaker who immersed herself in the case and interviewed Bee’s relatives and friends.
- Title
- Waltham Curling Club
- Runtime
- 6:16
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Discover the strategy, history and camaraderie of curling at the Waltham Curling Club. Members from children to adults in their 80s share a sport that has brought generations together since the club’s founding in 1884. Learn how the game works and why its friendships can last a lifetime.
- Title
- 4/23/2026 | Neuhaus, Ferrero and Mama Girl | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:34
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Neuhaus, Ferrero and Mama Girl.
Neuhaus and Ferrero are four-month-old brothers. They are almost identical domestic shorthair kittens. Mama's Girl is a two-year-old Pit Bull. She sits on command and walks well on a leash. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 4/23/2026 | Frankie, Roomba and Rosalita | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Frankie, Roomba and Rosalita.
Frankie is an orange, domestic long hair cat. The big guy is two-years-old. Roomba is a black Labrador with a lot of energy! This eight-month-old puppy also will sit on command. Rosalita is an adorable Terrier. She is two-years-old. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- The House on Garling
- Runtime
- 6:02
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Tour the House on Garling, a Bloomington home unlike any other. What began as a remodeling project grew into a decade-long creative journey built with unconventional materials, imagination and persistence. Meet the father and daughter whose work on the house has strengthened their skills and their bond.
- Title
- Peoria Public Library
- Runtime
- 6:16
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Peoria Public Library is more than a place for books. Explore the classes, technology, job resources, outreach programs and welcoming spaces that help people learn, connect and find support. Meet the librarians working to make information and opportunity accessible throughout the community.
- Title
- Bradley Physical Therapy and Health Science
- Runtime
- 6:46
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Step inside Bradley University’s Glen and Poly Barton Clinic for Fitness and Function, where physical therapy students gain hands-on experience while serving people in need. See how pro bono care, encouragement and community help clients continue their recovery beyond the limits of insurance coverage.
- Title
- Living It Up: Sports, Music & Weekend Fun in Central Illinois (April 24–26)
- Runtime
- 1:56
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Living It Up with Mark Welp is your guide to fun in Central Illinois for the weekend of April 24–26! 🎉
From sports and theater to concerts, food, and author events, here’s what’s happening:
⚾ Peoria Chiefs vs. Cedar Rapids Kernels at Dozer Park
🎭 42nd Street opens at Peoria Players Theatre
🎸 ZZ Top & Dwight Yoakam co-headline the Dos Amigos Tour
🎶 Tremont native Katy Nichole brings her Honest Conversations Tour to Five Points Washington
🥙 48th Lebanese Food Festival at St. Sharbel Parish Hall
📚 David Sedaris reading and book signing
🎤 James McMurtry and Pop Evil live at the Castle Theatre
Hit play and plan your weekend!
👍 Like, subscribe, and share for more local picks.
#LivingItUp #CentralIllinois #PeoriaEvents #WeekendGuide #LiveMusic #Theater #FoodFest
- Title
- Peoria Chinese Association
- Runtime
- 6:02
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Join the Peoria Chinese Association as families welcome the Year of the Horse. Experience a Chinese New Year celebration filled with traditional foods, games, red envelopes, music and performances while learning how Central Illinois families preserve their culture and share its joy with the wider community.
- Title
- Nomad Theatre Company
- Runtime
- 6:13
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Go behind the scenes with Nomad Theatre Company, a site-specific company that stages productions in the places where their stories unfold. Its founders take theatre beyond the traditional stage, creating immersive experiences, introducing audiences to community spaces and making the arts more accessible.
- Title
- Little Feet, Big Dreams
- Runtime
- 5:11
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Meet Victoria McLean and her family, who transform plain shoes into colorful works of art through Little Feet, Big Dreams. What began as a creative outlet during grief became a nonprofit providing free, hand-painted shoes to children while showing how art can support healing and strengthen a family.
- Title
- Cuddles with Kindness
- Runtime
- 6:29
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Meet Taylor Cole, whose childhood hospital stay inspired Cuddles with Kindness. The nonprofit collects and distributes new stuffed animals to children facing hospitalization, foster care, homelessness and other difficult experiences, providing comfort, normalcy and a reminder that someone cares.
- Title
- Bringing Vaudeville Back to Peoria: Jolene and Craig Howard
- Runtime
- 26:22
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Christine Zak-Edmonds talks with Jolene and Craig Howard of Upstage Theatre Company about reviving the spirit of vaudeville in Peoria. They discuss musical theater, improv, dinner theater and performances at the historic GAR Hall, along with the appeal of creating live entertainment that feels both nostalgic and new.
- Title
- Where People Learn, Create and Connect
- Runtime
- 27:45
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Visit four Central Illinois places where people learn, create and connect. See how Bradley University pairs physical therapy training with compassionate care, discover how Peoria Public Library serves needs far beyond books, tour the one-of-a-kind House on Garling and take to the ice with generations of curlers at Waltham Curling Club.
- Title
- At Issue with Mark Welp | Ep. 329 | The Sun Foundation
- Runtime
- 26:11
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- The Sun Foundation provides educational programs in central Illinois combining the arts and environmental science. Through scholarships and other initiatives, the Sun Foundation reaches children in both rural and urban communities.
- Title
- 4/16/2026 | Jagger, Wally and Universe | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:43
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Jagger, Wally and Universe.
Jagger is the strong, silent type. He is a two-year-old, domestic shorthair cat. Wally is a large, multi-colored Cocker Spaniel. He is three-years-old. Six-month-old Universe is a Pit Bull mix. He is playful and sweet! Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 4/16/2026 | Gigabyte, Android and Smoothie | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Gigabyte, Android and Smoothie.
Gigabyte and Android are brother and sister. Gigabyte is a gray boy and Android is a black girl. They are two-month-old, domestic shorthair kittens. Smoothie is a three-month-old Anatolian Shepherd puppy. She is going to grow to be very large! Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- Living It Up: Central Illinois Weekend Guide | April 17–19 Events & Entertainment
- Runtime
- 1:58
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Living It Up is your go-to guide for fun in central Illinois! 🎉
Mark Welp highlights what’s happening April 17–19, from live music and theater to sports and special concerts across the region.
This weekend features The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe from Corn Stock for Kids, Peoria native LiV Warfield with the Peoria Symphony Orchestra, The Rock Orchestra, the Friends & Legends Concert from the Fogelberg Foundation, Suzy Bogguss in Galesburg, jazz in Peoria Heights, ABBA tribute favorites in Bloomington, Sound of Illinois Chorus in Normal, and Bloomington Bison hockey at home.
👉 Like, subscribe, and share to stay updated on the best events happening around central Illinois!
#livingitup #CentralIllinois #PeoriaEvents #BloomingtonNormal #WeekendGuide #LiveMusic #Theater #Sports
- Title
- Voices of A Nation | Part 1 | Peoria Symphony Orchestra
- Runtime
- 46:27
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Experience Peoria Symphony Orchestra’s Voices of a Nation concert. Filmed in January 2026, the performance featured themes that reflect the American spirit through pieces by iconic American composers. Part one includes music by the legendary John Williams and Ferde Grofé with the Olympic Fanfare and Grand Canyon Suite.
- Title
- Voices of A Nation | Part 2 | Peoria Symphony Orchestra
- Runtime
- 31:47
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Experience Peoria Symphony Orchestra’s Voices of a Nation concert. Filmed in January 2026, the performance featured themes that reflect the American spirit through pieces by iconic American composers. Part two includes “Javelin,” a thrilling piece by Michael Torke and is followed by Aaron Copland’s stirring “Lincoln Portrait.
- Title
- Treating Sprains, Strains and Joint Pain
- Runtime
- 26:47
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Mark Welp talks with OSF HealthCare’s Dr. Charles Miller and physical therapist Brandon Fritz about musculoskeletal injuries. They discuss how sprains, strains, tears and tendinitis are evaluated, when physical therapy or other treatments may help, and how strength, conditioning and proper warmups can reduce the risk of injury.
- Title
- At Issue With Mark Welp | Ep. 328 | Route 66
- Runtime
- 26:47
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of Route 66, the famous road that ran from Chicago to Santa Monica California and straight through central Illinois. This year McLean County is rolling out celebrations to honor the history, culture and community of Route 66. We’ll talk about the significance of Route 66 and how our central Illinois communities are capitalizing on this milestone event.
- Title
- 4/9/2026 | Greta, Tiffany and Pluto | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Greta, Tiffany and Pluto.
Greta has beautiful dilute calico fur. She is an eight-year-old domestic shorthair cat. Four-year-old Tiffany is a classic, orange cat. This four-year-old is affectionate! Pluto is here with his three siblings. They are six-month-old Pit Bulls. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 4/9/2026 | Captain, Geronimo and Luigi | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Captain, Geronimo and Luigi.
Captain is a large and furry domestic long hair cat. He is five-years-old. Three-month-old Geronimo is a Labrador-Poodle mix. He is very sweet! Luigi is a Boxer-Beagle mix. He is one-year-old and loves affection. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- Living It Up: Top Things to Do in Central Illinois | April 10–12
- Runtime
- 2:01
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Discover the best ways to Live It Up in central Illinois for the weekend of April 10–12! 🎉
Mark Welp rounds up can’t-miss events including the Peoria Chiefs home opener, Bradley Theatre’s Everybody, roller derby, All Time Low in concert, live theater, art adventures along Route 66, a massive collectibles expo, an ABBA tribute, and a new concert from the Illinois Symphony Orchestra.
Whether you’re into sports, music, theater, or local culture, there’s something fun waiting for you this weekend.
👍 Like, subscribe, and share to stay updated on what’s happening around central Illinois!
#livingitup #CentralIllinois #WeekendGuide #Peoria #BloomingtonNormal #ThingsToDo
- Title
- Building a Place to Age With Purpose: Peggy Jacques
- Runtime
- 26:05
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Christine Zak-Edmonds talks with Peggy Jacques about the Graceland Center for Purposeful Aging and a different vision for growing older. Jacques explains how programs, activities and social connection can help older adults remain engaged, build friendships and continue contributing to their community.
- Title
- Jehan Gordon-Booth: Building Peoria’s Momentum
- Runtime
- 27:16
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- State Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth joins Blake Wirth to discuss her Peoria roots and the persistence behind major community investments, including the Peoria Stadium Dome and Golf Learning Center. Peoria Park District Executive Director Emily Cahill joins the conversation to share how collaboration turns ambitious ideas into reality. Plus, Blake celebrates the momentum growing across the 309.
- Title
- St. Jude Runs | One Crazy Idea
- Runtime
- 25:31
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- It’s one of the most well-known charity events in Illinois and every year it grows larger. The St. Jude Memphis to Peoria Run began 45 years ago and since then runners have raised almost 100-million dollars to help fight childhood cancer and support families. Now a documentary called One Crazy Idea takes us inside one of the most unique fundraisers in the country.
- Title
- 4/2/2026 | Shuddy, Bailey Bean and Tallulah | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:34
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Shuddy, Bailey Bean and Tallulah.
Shuddy is a one-year-old, domestic shorthair cat. We have two energetic Pit Bulls this week. Bailey Bean is an affectionate one-year-old. Tallulah raised her seven puppies and now needs a forever home. This three-0year-old can sit and shake. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 4/2/2026 | Bears, Shoe and Lenox | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Bears, Shoe and Lenox. Bears is an orange, domestic shorthair kitten. He is five-months-old. One-year-old Shoe is a fun boy. He is a domestic shorthair cat. Lenox the Husky knows basic commands! He is an energetic two-year-old. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- Living It Up April 3–5 | Fashion, Sports & Family Fun in Central Illinois
- Runtime
- 2:00
- Date posted
- 7 months ago
- Description
- Living It Up April 3–5 is your guide to fun across central Illinois this weekend! From the Peoria Fashion Week finale and Rivermen hockey to classic cars in Pekin, Easter fun for kids, live music, theater, art walks, and more in Peoria and Bloomington-Normal. Get the highlights and plan your weekend now!
👉 Like, subscribe, and share for more local fun!
#LivingItUp #CentralIllinois #WeekendGuide #Peoria #BloomingtonNormal
- Title
- Elizabeth Nielsen | A Shot of Ag | ep 632
- Runtime
- 26:32
- Date posted
- 8 months ago
- Description
- Elizabeth Nielsen of Kaneville, Illinois founded Tiny Voices Therapy to serve children in need of speech therapy. Driven by a dream to incorporate horses into healing, she found the perfect farm in 2019 combining clinical space with a barn. Today, she also welcomes guests to Little Cottage on the Farm, offering meaningful connections with animals and nature.
- Title
- Meg Zakrzewski: Innovation, Joy and Children's Care
- Runtime
- 26:45
- Date posted
- 8 months ago
- Description
- Christine Zak-Edmonds talks with Meg Zakrzewski of OSF HealthCare Children's Hospital of Illinois about caring for children and families. Zakrzewski discusses new approaches to pediatric care, specialized programs including the Down Syndrome Clinic and traditions such as Tutu Tuesday that bring joy into difficult medical experiences.
- Title
- Bradley University | Women’s Sports
- Runtime
- 26:29
- Date posted
- 8 months ago
- Description
- From the WNBA and the Olympics to high school and college, opportunities for women and girls sports continue to expand. Here in central Illinois, Bradley University is adding five premier club sports.
