WTVP
The Stories Inside Pontiac’s Route 66 Museum
- Title
- The Stories Inside Pontiac’s Route 66 Museum
- Runtime
- 4:33
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Step inside the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac, where Illinois history stretches from Chicago to St. Louis. Bob Waldmire’s van, vintage memorabilia and familiar touches from “Cars” help visitors of every age connect the Mother Road’s past with the journeys still ahead.
- Title
- Getting There Was the Fun
- Runtime
- 3:23
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Kathryn Harris looks back on an unforgettable family journey to California in the early 1960s. Packed into a Chevrolet station wagon with eight siblings and no seat belts, she remembers the Grand Canyon, sleeping beneath the stars and discovering that getting there could be just as memorable as the destination.
- Title
- Discover Friendships: The Joy of Theater Community #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:31
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- From never-done-it-before to hooked for life. The theater stage is where unexpected friendships forge and lasting bonds are built, one show at a time. WATCH NOW: The Peoria Players https://bit.ly/PeoriaPlayers #CommunityTheater #FriendshipGoals #PerformingArts #TheaterLife
- Title
- Morton: The Official Pumpkin Capital of the World! #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:54
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Discover Morton, Illinois, the official "Pumpkin Capital of the World"! Since 1978, this town has been central to processing over 85% of the world's canned pumpkin, celebrated annually since 1967.
🔗 Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/MjEV0PGMmGw
#PumpkinCapital #MortonIllinois #FallFestival #CannedPumpkin #SeasonalFood
- Title
- Bringing Blood Moon to Life
- Runtime
- 26:01
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Rick Dienzo Blanco joins Christine Zak-Edmonds to discuss launching CasaBlanco Creative and bringing his background in gaming, entertainment and experience design to Central Illinois. He shares the inspiration behind Blood Moon, an immersive Halloween experience in Peoria, and how storytelling, local performers, set design and 3D printing help bring the concept to life.
- Title
- Big M Amusements: A 4-Generation Carnival Story #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:58
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Generations of family fun! Big M Amusements has been bringing joy to our community since 1957, evolving from a small show to a beloved carnival. The magic of the rides lives on!
🔗 Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/MjEV0PGMmGw
#CarnivalHistory #FamilyBusiness #BigMAmusements #CommunityEvent #Generational
- Title
- Alex Chequim: From Brazil to AgTech Innovation
- Runtime
- 26:47
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Entrepreneur Alex Chequim joins Doug Cruitt to trace a journey that began with childhood businesses in Brazil and grew into DigiFarmz, an agricultural technology startup serving farmers and agribusinesses. Chequim shares lessons on resilience, innovation, risk and finding opportunity in problems while building a company across borders.
- Title
- When Mothers Are Incarcerated: The Impact on Children and Families
- Runtime
- 26:41
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Mark Welp talks with Illinois Prison Project Assistant Director of Education Kaitlyn Foust and formerly incarcerated mother and activist Nia Frazier. They examine pregnancy behind bars, separation from children, the lasting effects of parental incarceration, reentry and arguments for rethinking punishment while maintaining accountability.
- Title
- Morton's Pumpkin Festival: From Field to Fame! #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:05
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- From a small-town idea to a major export celebration. The Morton Pumpkin Festival's humble, muddy beginnings paved the way for a beloved annual event. See how it grew from a rainy field to a town staple.
🔗 Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/MjEV0PGMmGw
#PumpkinFestival #MortonIllinois #CommunityEvent #FestivalHistory
- Title
- Top Things to Do in Central Illinois | Sept. 18-20 Weekend Events
- Runtime
- 1:56
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- 🎉 Living It Up with Mark Welp returns with your guide to the best events happening across central Illinois this weekend! From Peoria Oktoberfest and the Morton Pumpkin Festival to live music from the Oak Ridge Boys and Yachtley Crew, there's something for everyone. Plus, enjoy community festivals, symphony performances, football, comedy magic with Justin Willman, and outdoor family fun at Nature Trail Days.
📅 Weekend of September 18-20
📍 Central Illinois
#livingitup #CentralIllinois #Oktoberfest #MortonPumpkinFestival #PeoriaEvents #WeekendGuide #OakRidgeBoys #YachtleyCrew #FamilyFun #ThingsToDo #IllinoisEvents #MarkWelp
- Title
- Volunteer for Our Amazing Pumpkin Festival! #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:41
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- The secret to a thriving community event? Pure enthusiasm! Volunteers pour their passion into making festivals like this a blast, turning 'have to do' into 'get to do'.
🔗 Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/MjEV0PGMmGw
#CommunityEvents #VolunteerPower #FestivalFun #LocalSpirit
- Title
- Lake Clarity Secrets: Microscopic Life & Nutrient Cycles #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:26
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- The clarity of lake water dictates the abundance of life within. Light penetration fuels algae and zooplankton growth, supporting a complex food web that begins with tiny protozoa and bacteria. These organisms are vital, recycling nutrients and decomposing matter, completing the cycle from death to life. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4aOnBOx #LakeEcology #MicroscopicLife #WaterQuality #Ecosystems #Biodiversity
- Title
- Morton Pumpkin Festival: Homecoming & Community Celebration! #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:40
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- More than just a festival, it's homecoming for Morton. Bringing back kids, grandkids, and friends for a wholesome, family-friendly event filled with fellowship and community spirit.
🔗 Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/MjEV0PGMmGw
#MortonPumpkinFestival #Homecoming #FamilyEvent #Community
- Title
- Pumpkin Festival: 10,500 Pork Chops & 50,000 Doughnuts! #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:36
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- From Mr. Pork Chop himself to a staggering 10,500 sandwiches, the Pumpkin Festival is a pork chop paradise. Plus, 50,000 doughnuts and 1500 pies annually!
🔗 Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/MjEV0PGMmGw
#PumpkinFestival #PorkChops #FoodieEvent #FestivalEats
- Title
- Vietnam Veterans Faced Backlash on Return Home #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:46
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Returning Vietnam veterans faced more than just readjustment; they were met with spitting, verbal abuse, and projectiles upon arrival. The very people they fought for treated them as villains. WATCH NOW - Vietnam War: Personal Reflections https://bit.ly/WTVPVietnam #VietnamWar #VeteranStories #HistoricalFootage #SocialJustice
- Title
- Morton Pumpkin Festival: Volunteer Power Makes Magic Happen! #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:54
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- See how over 2,000 passionate volunteers make the Morton Pumpkin Festival an enormous success. It's a community effort fueled by pride, new ideas, and infectious enthusiasm, keeping the festival fresh and vibrant year after year.
🔗 Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/MjEV0PGMmGw
#CommunityLove #VolunteerPower #PumpkinFestival #LocalEvents
- Title
- Jimmy O’Connor and Second Story Foundation
- Runtime
- 28:07
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Jimmy O’Connor explains how Second Story Foundation is building a farm-based recovery community in Crete, Illinois. Drawing on his own decade of sobriety, he discusses the realities of addiction, the support needed for lasting recovery and how meaningful work with horses can help people rebuild purpose, stability and hope.
- Title
- Beau Landry and Lindsey Swischuk: Bringing Peoria Together
- Runtime
- 26:46
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Blake Wirth talks with Beau Landry about returning home, creating memorable experiences and investing in downtown Peoria through VAULT. Breast cancer survivor Lindsey Swischuk shares the story behind Pink Boots & Country Roots. Plus, Blake checks the vibe at River City Soul Fest and reflects on relationships through the “train theory.”
- Title
- Community Theater: Your Last Chance for Fun? #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:28
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- After high school and college, when is the last time you got to act, dance, or sing? Community theater offers a precious stage for passion. WATCH NOW: The Peoria Players https://bit.ly/PeoriaPlayers #CommunityTheater #PerformingArts #Hobbies #PassionProject
- Title
- 9/10/2026 | Junkyard Dog, Annie and Freckles | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:56
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Junkyard Dog, Annie and Freckles.
Junkyard Dog is a hefty boy! He is a two-year-old domestic medium hair cat. One-year-old Annie loves to play! She is a brown Chihuahua. Freckles is an energetic, medium-size mixed breed dog. He is one-year-old. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 1923 Missouri: Woman Paid More Taxes Than Anyone #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:21
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- In 1923, a Black woman in Missouri paid more taxes than any other human being in the state. A historical footnote of significant financial impact, challenging societal norms. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4eXE1GU #MissouriHistory #TaxRecord #HistoricalFacts #SocialJustice
- Title
- 9/10/2026 | Ginger, Gilligan and Mochie | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Ginger, Gilligan and Mochie.
Ginger and Gilligan were brought to TAPS as part of an unwanted litter. The brother and sister are three-month-old, domestic short hair kittens. Mochie is a beautiful Australian Shepherd mix. This 10-year-old was surrendered due to her owner's declining health. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- We Remember: Peoria’s 9/11 Exhibit
- Runtime
- 26:31
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Curators Bill Conger and Megan Nguyen preview “We Remember,” a Peoria Riverfront Museum exhibition created with objects and stories from the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. They discuss artifacts being shown publicly for the first time, the exhibit’s connections to Peoria, and a community remembrance marking 25 years since the attacks.
- Title
- Segregated Chapel, But Full of Heart: Mexican Catholics' Story #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:50
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Facing discrimination in Galesburg, Mexican Catholics found strength and belonging by establishing their own chapel at Davis Camp. Supported by the Burlington Railroad and St. Joseph Academy volunteers, they built a vital community hub. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4wwoqDP #GalesburgHistory #CatholicCommunity #DavisCamp #BurlingtonRailroad #ImmigrantStories
- Title
- Best Things to Do in Central Illinois This Weekend (Sept. 11-13)
- Runtime
- 2:01
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Explore the best events happening across central Illinois this weekend! Mark Welp highlights Peoria Players Theatre’s Come From Away, the Heartland Festival Orchestra season opener, the Marching Panther Invitational, Day of the Dozer, the Midwest Toy & Comic Fest, Melissa Etheridge live in Bloomington, and fall festival fun in Pekin, Elmwood, El Paso, and Havana.
#LivingItUp #CentralIllinois #Peoria #BloomingtonIL #WeekendEvents #ComeFromAway #MelissaEtheridge #FallFestivals #IllinoisEvents #ThingsToDoInIllinois
- Title
- Discover Peoria's Breathtaking Grandview Drive: A Must-See! #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:38
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Discover the 'wow factor' of Peoria's Grand View Drive. From its stunning vistas to historic homes, it's a must-see attraction offering panoramic views and captivating stories. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/GrandViewDrive #GrandViewDrive #PeoriaIL #ScenicDrive #TravelIllinois
- Title
- Lake Health Secrets: Invertebrates & Scientist's Tools #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:01
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Discover how creatures like Stentor and Planaria signal a healthy lake. Scientists use probes for pH, salinity, and oxygen, while sediment samples reveal fingernail clams and chironomid larvae—indicators of life that can persist for centuries. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4aOnBOx #LakeHealth #Ecosystems #WaterQuality #Biodiversity #ScientificDiscovery
- Title
- Vietnam War Combat: Unexpected Attacks & Harrowing Moments #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:23
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- A harrowing firsthand account of a mortar attack during the Vietnam War. Witness the chaos, the fear, and the immense human cost of conflict. WATCH NOW - Vietnam War: Personal Reflections https://bit.ly/WTVPVietnam #VietnamWar #MilitaryHistory #SoldierStories #Combat #History
- Title
- Restoring History: $5.7M Club Project & Exciting Donation News! #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Discover the incredible restoration of a building with a rich history. Over $50,000 annually to operate, this project aims to revitalize a music hall dormant for 50 years. A vision for the future, built on past accomplishments. FULL EPISODE: https://video.wtvp.org/video/inside-the-historic-peoria-womens-club-1cuxr4/ #HistoricRestoration #CommunityBuilding #MusicHistory #Fundraising
- Title
- Chandler James Finds Her Place in Agriculture
- Runtime
- 27:05
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Rob Sharkey talks with Chandler James about growing up around her family farm, becoming a Champaign County Fair Queen and finding a career in agricultural digital marketing. James reflects on losing her father, helping her brother keep the farm going and why she believes agriculture offers young people far more career paths than they may realize.
- Title
- Farm Girl's Journey: From Grief to Grain Truck Driver! #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:55
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Growing up on a farm, facing loss, and discovering a passion for agriculture. Now, a proud grain truck driver and partner in a farming life. This is the journey. ALL NEW A Shot of Ag tonight at 8:30 p.m. on WTVP or watch it now at https://video.wtvp.org/video/chandler-james-finds-her-place-in-agriculture-p2i42r/ #FarmLife #Agriculture #TruckDriver #CountryLiving #WomenInAg
- Title
- Unleash Your Confidence: The Power of Theatre #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:28
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Discover how theater builds personality, unearths suppressed parts of yourself, and boosts confidence. A journey of growth and humanness for young people. WATCH NOW: The Peoria Players https://bit.ly/PeoriaPlayers #TheaterKids #PersonalGrowth #ConfidenceBoost #YouthDevelopment #PerformingArts
- Title
- Inside the Historic Peoria Women’s Club
- Runtime
- 27:49
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Christine Zak-Edmonds welcomes Lynette Steger and Anne Schutt of the Peoria Women’s Club to explore an organization dating back to 1878. They discuss its historic clubhouse and theater, the role women played in shaping Peoria, ongoing restoration efforts and how the club is evolving to serve new generations of women and the community.
- Title
- Peoria Women's Club: Preserve History, Build Community #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:37
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Discover how the Peoria Women's Club, housed in an 11,000 sq ft building, serves as a vital connector for women's events and organizations in the region. Learn how you can utilize this historic space. ALL NEW episode of Consider This tonight at 7:30 p.m. or watch now at https://video.wtvp.org/video/inside-the-historic-peoria-womens-club-1cuxr4/ #WomensClub #HistoricPreservation #CommunityBuilding #Peoria
- Title
- Faith in Action: Miss Malone's $25,000 Donation #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:39
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Governor Malone reveals her $25,000 donation wasn't hers—it was God's. Discover the deep faith that guided her actions and inspired her community, emphasizing prayer and positive words. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4eXE1GU #Faith #Generosity #Inspiration #ChristianValues #Community
- Title
- 9/3/2026 | Jumper, Thumper and Spain | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:23
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Jumper, Thumper and Spain.
Jumper and Thumper are energetic brothers! They are two-month-old domestic shorthair kittens. Spain is a medium-sized mixed breed girl. She is five-months-old. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 9/3/2026 | Dover, Muffin and Number 46 | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Dover, Muffin and Number 46.
Dover is a sweet little fluff ball! He is a three-month-old, domestic longhair kitten. Two-year-old Muffin is very attentive. She is a medium-sized Beagle. Number 46 is a very gentle Poodle mix. This six-year-old is adjusting well to life after being rescued from a hoarding situation. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- The Need for Foster Families
- Runtime
- 24:31
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Thousands of Illinois children are in foster care, and Central Illinois has a significant need for more foster families. Mark Welp talks with Cathy Newbury of Let It Be Us about why the shortage matters, how foster care works, what prospective foster parents can expect, common misconceptions and the difference a stable, supportive home can make.
- Title
- WWI LABOR SHORTAGE: How Mexico Saved America's Economy #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:30
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- After WWI, the US faced a labor shortage. Mexican immigrants stepped in, becoming crucial for industries and railroads. A vital chapter in American economic history. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4wwoqDP #MexicanImmigration #LaborHistory #USHistory #WorldWarI
- Title
- Grandview Drive: Nature's Linear Park Masterpiece #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:47
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Discover how Grand View Drive harmonizes with the landscape, using natural bluffs and vistas. Shade trees planted for consistency create a stunning linear park designed for enjoyment. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/GrandViewDrive #GrandViewDrive #LandscapeDesign #UrbanPlanning #NatureWalks #ParkDesign
- Title
- Living It Up: Best Things To Do in Central Illinois | Sept. 4-6
- Runtime
- 2:06
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Get ready for a fun-filled Labor Day weekend in central Illinois! 🎉
In this edition of Living It Up, Mark Welp highlights some of the biggest events happening September 4-6, including the Peoria Chiefs' regular-season finale, Bluey’s Big Play at the Peoria Civic Center, the Delavan Fall Festival, Manito Popcorn Festival, Old State Hospital Dark Fair, Mackinaw Valley Vineyard’s Grape Stomp & Harvest Festival, Kewanee Hog Days, the Route 66 Centennial Fall Kick-Off Celebration at Rader Family Farms, and Illinois State Redbirds football at Western Illinois.
Whether you're looking for family fun, live entertainment, food festivals, sports, or unique local events, there’s something for everyone this weekend.
#CentralIllinois #Peoria #BlueysBigPlay #LivingItUp #WeekendGuide #LaborDayWeekend #Festivals #FamilyFun #IllinoisEvents #PeoriaChiefs
- Title
- Illinois River Ecosystem Restoration: Nature's Plan #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:26
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- The Illinois River system faced biological distress. In 2000, organizations led by The Nature Conservancy created a framework for nature to restore backwaters, prairies, and bluffs. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4aOnBOx #IllinoisRiver #EcosystemRestoration #Conservation #Nature Conservancy
- Title
- Uncovering Kramm's Murder Mystery: A True Crime Investigation #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:39
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- A heated baseball game in Kramm erupted into violence. Tempers flared, leading to a brawl and a tragic shooting by an off-duty deputy. Chaos ensued, forcing the deputy's swift removal. FULL EPISODE: https://video.wtvp.org/video/elmwood-filmmaker-tiffany-thomas-z7rpx1/ #KrammHistory #TrueCrime #LocalHistory #BaseballFights
- Title
- 1867 Peoria Tragedy: Accidental Death of Tobias Bradley #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:51
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- A tragic accident in Tazewell County, Illinois, on May 1st, 1867. A passenger was thrown from a carriage, then kicked by the panicked horse, leading to his death three days later. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/3R75Gf6 #TazewellCounty #HistoricalAccidents #19thCentury #IllinoisHistory #Tragedy
- Title
- Preserving Local Stories: Free Community Content #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:36
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Preserving and sharing the unique stories of farmers, local businesses, startups, inventors, and authors, freely accessible to the community. Essential media for all. FULL EPISODE: https://video.wtvp.org/video/wtvps-2025-26-impact-kmsoxe/ #LocalStories #CommunityMedia #Preservation #Storytelling
- Title
- WTVP’s 2025-26 Impact
- Runtime
- 17:17
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- WTVP President and CEO Jenn Gordon joins James Kerr for a look at WTVP’s 2025-26 Annual Impact Guide. They discuss growth in broadcast and digital audiences, 259 new local programs and specials, expanded community engagement, 2,500 new members and what it means for WTVP to move forward as a 100% community-supported public media organization.
- Title
- Vietnam Landmine Explosion: A Survivor's Harrowing Account #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:40
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- A horrific command-detonated mine explosion on July 18th, 1968, destroyed a truck and claimed the lives of four people, including a friend. The aftermath left deep scars, especially when recalling a similar age of his own daughter. WATCH NOW - Vietnam War: Personal Reflections https://bit.ly/WTVPVietnam #MineExplosion #TragicEvent #VietnamWar #RememberTheFallen #MilitaryHistory
- Title
- Whiskey Boom Parallels: Lessons from 1870s Upheaval #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:12
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- History repeats: The 1870s whiskey boom mirrors today's tech and immigration waves. Then, like now, unity—through unions, advocacy, and shared resources—powered progress through upheaval. FULL EPISODE: https://video.wtvp.org/video/elmwood-filmmaker-tiffany-thomas-z7rpx1/ #HistoryRepeats #SocialChange #CommunityPower #EconomicHistory
- Title
- Reliving Childhood Stage Fright: The Music Man #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:40
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Stepping onto the stage as a school kid, instruments in hand, knowing the performance depended on us. That electrifying feeling of live music in 'The Music Man'. WATCH NOW: The Peoria Players https://bit.ly/PeoriaPlayers #LivePerformance #SchoolPlay #TheaterKids #MusicMan
- Title
- Elmwood Filmmaker Tiffany Thomas
- Runtime
- 26:31
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Mark Welp talks with Elmwood filmmaker Tiffany Thomas about turning Central Illinois history into compelling documentaries. Thomas discusses the research behind her Prairie Tales films, the people and industries that shaped Peoria County, and her latest project, Over a Barrel, exploring the region’s past and the stories still waiting to be told.
