WTVP
Dr. Zeller's Revolutionary Asylum Reforms: A New Era #shorts
- Title
- Dr. Zeller's Revolutionary Asylum Reforms: A New Era #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:35
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Dr. Zeller transformed patient care by removing restraints and advocating for shorter workdays for attendants. He challenged the label 'incurables,' leading to name changes reflecting humane treatment. FULL DOC: "Springdale Cemetery - Memories of a Lifetime" available on WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #MentalHealthReform #HistoryOfMedicine #PatientCare #Humanitarian
- Title
- Peoria's Elite Runners: USATF 4-Mile Championships! #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:03
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- USATF 4 Mile Championships ignite Peoria with elite and masters athletes. The Steamboat Classic SC415 mobilizes the community for health and wellness year-round. Experience the excitement! FULL EPISODE: bit.ly/4wIPekG #PeoriaEvents #USATFChampionships #SteamboatClassic #CommunityHealth #Running
- Title
- Mistaken for Escaped Prisoners at Angola #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:52
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- A boating trip turned terrifying when mistaken for escaped convicts at Angola State Prison. Guns were drawn, and a harrowing encounter unfolded before the truth was revealed. #AngolaPrison #TrueCrime #MistakenIdentity #BoatingAccident #ScaryStories
- Title
- The Ultimate Reward: Helping Those Who Can't #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:48
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Beyond big verdicts and saved fortunes, the true joy of law lies in empowering the vulnerable. Helping a parent or child navigate the unbearable is the ultimate legal reward. FULL EPISODE: https://bit.ly/4wIPekG #ProBono #CommunityImpact #LegalAid #MakingADifference #LawyerLife
- Title
- John Wesley Powell: Geology Pioneer & National Geographic Co-Founder #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:04
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Civil War veteran John Wesley Powell revolutionized science education. He pioneered fieldwork, taking students on expeditions and co-founding the National Geographic Society. His legacy includes developing our university seal and motto: 'Science and Wisdom.' FULL DOC: "McLean County: The Early Days" availble at WTVP.org and free on the PBS app. #JohnWesleyPowell #FieldScience #Geology #NationalGeographic #ScienceEducation
- Title
- Curling: A Sport for ALL Ages! #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:05
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Discover the enduring appeal of the Waltham Curling Club, a tradition spanning generations. From 8-year-olds to 90-year-olds, anyone can enjoy this fantastic sport and great exercise. FULL EPISODE: https://bit.ly/4bmXyhx #Curling #Sports #AllAges #Community #Tradition
- Title
- Annie Malone: Unsung Black History Hero of Peoria #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:52
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Orphaned and without a high school diploma, Annie Malone built a global empire and a fortune. She used her success to empower others, proving strength against racism and discrimination. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4eXE1GU #AnnieMalone #BlackHistory #Entrepreneurship #Inspiration
- Title
- In the Arena with Doug Cruitt
- Runtime
- 26:47
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- In the Arena with Doug Cruitt brings thoughtful conversations with the people shaping Central Illinois. From business and education to community leadership, innovation and public life, Cruitt explores the ideas, challenges and opportunities influencing the region and the people working to move it forward.
- Title
- Stronger Together: Building WTVP's Next Chapter
- Runtime
- 26:01
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- WTVP Now looks ahead at the future of public media in Central Illinois. James Kerr talks with WTVP President and CEO Jenn Gordon, Board Chair Dr. Andy Chiou and Past Board Chair John Wieland about community support, financial stewardship, new growth, the Stronger Together campaign and why every investment in WTVP matters.
- Title
- 7/16/2026 | Alakazam, Abracadabra and Petunia Marie | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:28
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Alakazam, Abracadabra and Petunia Marie.
Alakazam and Abracadabra are sisters. They are three-month-old, black domestic shorthair kittens. Petunia Marie is happy and bouncy! She is a one-year-old Labrador. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 7/16/2026 | Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo, Beluga and Beatrice | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo, Beluga and Beatrice.
Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo is a three-month-old domestic shorthair kitten. Beluga is a strong and smart Pit Bull. He is still growing at six-months-old. One-year-old Beatrice is full of love! She is a Labrador mix. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- Fighting Back: Mexican Americans Demand Civil Rights in Galesburg #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:33
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- After WWII, Mexican American soldiers in Galesburg faced discrimination. This video details their fight for civil rights, community action, and the formation of LULAC. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4wwoqDP #MexicanAmerican #WWIIHistory #CivilRights #LULAC #Galesburg
- Title
- Living It Up: The Best Central Illinois Events for July 17-19
- Runtime
- 2:01
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- 🎉 Looking for things to do in Central Illinois this weekend? Mark Welp has you covered with Living It Up for July 17-19!
This week features: 🎶 Peoria Municipal Band 🏳️🌈 River City Pride Festival 🍔 Bass and Bites 🍷 Art, Literature & Wine Festival 🚜 Livingston County Fair 🎨 Kewanee Prairie Chicken Arts Festival ⚾ Normal CornBelters baseball 🤘 Black Stone Cherry at the Castle Theatre 🎵 Make Music Normal Festival
From live music and festivals to fairs, food, art and family fun, there’s something for everyone across Central Illinois this weekend.
#CentralIllinois #ThingsToDo #PeoriaIL #BloomingtonNormal #WeekendEvents #RiverCityPride #MakeMusicNormal #LivingItUp #IllinoisEvents #FamilyFun
- Title
- Grandview Drive: Peoria's Most Beautiful Drive #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:09
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Discover Grandview Drive, a 'pleasure driveway' carved into bluffs long before Peoria Park District existed. Experience a magical journey from industrial riverfront through peaceful woods, culminating in breathtaking views. Even Theodore Roosevelt called it the world's most beautiful drive. FULL DOC: "Peoria's Playground: A History of the Peoria Park District" available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App #GrandviewDrive #ScenicViews #HistoricPlaces #PeoriaIllinois #TravelGoals
- Title
- Peoria's Best Hoopers: Who Reigns Supreme? #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:26
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- From Mitch to Marcellus, Peoria consistently produces elite basketball talent. Who reigns supreme in this city's legendary hardwood history? FULL EPISODE: https://bit.ly/4wIPekG #PeoriaHoops #BasketballLegends #CityOfAthletes #NBA
- Title
- Ancient Flood Created Fertile Land for Today #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:16
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- In 13,500 BC, a colossal ice dam burst near Marseilles, unleashing a 140-foot-deep, 26-mile-wide torrent. This catastrophic flood carved out the Illinois River valley, leaving behind fertile sand for crops and vast gravel deposits. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4aOnBOx #IceAgeFlood #Geology #AncientHistory #LandscapeFormation #NaturalDisaster
- Title
- Freedom Riders Bus Attacked in 1961 Mississippi #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:48
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- A harrowing account of a bus arriving in Jackson, Mississippi during the Freedom Riders era, encountering a hostile crowd and buses engulfed in flames. The stark contrast between hate and kindness is palpable. #FreedomRiders #CivilRights #History #Mississippi #1961
- Title
- Real Estate Mogul's Secret: Turning Marshland to Gold! #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:47
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- She bought thousands of acres, even marshland for $10/acre. A simple soil test transformed worthless land into a $140/acre goldmine. She revolutionized banking as its first female director. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/3R75Gf6 #LydiaBradley #RealEstate #BusinessWoman #Finance #History
- Title
- Beyond the Game: Reinventing Yourself After Success #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:03
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- When the cheers fade and the jerseys come off, life asks a deeper question: Who are you now? Discover how Mitch and Marcellus transformed their athletic discipline into thriving careers in law and community service, proving that growth is the real victory. FULL EPISODE: https://bit.ly/4wIPekG #PersonalGrowth #CareerChange #Resilience #SelfInvention #LifeAfterSports
- Title
- Historic Election: First Woman Elected to School Board #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:45
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- A remarkable achievement: Elected unopposed, she became the first woman on an Illinois school board, earning deep respect. A school was later named in her honor. FULL DOC: "Springdale Cemetery - Memories of a Lifetime" available on WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #PioneeringWomen #CommunityLeadership #PoliticalHistory #EducationAdvocacy
- Title
- Farming Legacy: Passing the Tractor Keys #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:50
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- From planting corn to watching his son sow soybeans, a father grapples with retirement. Is it time to let go, or is the farm his lifelong calling? A story of legacy, fairness, and the changing face of farming. FULL EPISODE: https://bit.ly/4wsQ30w #FarmLife #GenerationalFarming #Retirement #Legacy #Agriculture
- Title
- Mitch Gilfillan and Marcellus Sommerville: Giving Back
- Runtime
- 27:16
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Mitch Gilfillan, former Division I basketball player, coach and attorney, and Marcellus Sommerville, Bradley basketball legend and CEO of the Peoria Friendship House, join Vibe 309 for a conversation about basketball, leadership and giving back. Plus, we visit the Steamboat Classic, Peoria’s iconic running event, to celebrate its impact on the community.
- Title
- Belle Claxton: Black Community Beach Desegregation Pioneer #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:07
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Belle Claxton championed the Black community's fight for clean, accessible beaches in 1919. Though the beaches remained segregated, her activism led to improved conditions. FULL DOC: "McLean County: The Early Days" availble at WTVP.org and free on the PBS app. #BelleClaxton #CivilRights #BlackHistory #CommunityActivism
- Title
- Librarian: Changing Lives, One Patron at a Time #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:57
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- From job applications to finding a safe haven, librarians empower patrons. See how this public space fosters connections, understanding, and stable futures. It's more than books; it's a community. FULL EPISODE: https://bit.ly/4bmXyhx #LibraryLife #CommunityImpact #JobSeekerSupport #Empowerment #SafeSpace
- Title
- Down River: The Adventures of Bud Grieves
- Runtime
- 26:47
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Growing up on the shores of the Illinois River, Lowell “Bud” Grieves loved his time on the water. Then, as a teenager, a wild idea materialized and he set sail for New Orleans. Join us for part one of his adventurous tale of the many different seasons of his life, including as Peoria’s Mayor.
- Title
- 7/9/2026 | Mr. Tux, Ron and Toto | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:40
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Mr. Tux, Ron and Toto.
Mr. Tux is a black and white, domestic longhair cat. He is six-years-old. Ron is considered a senior at nine-years-old, but he still has energy! He is a mixed breed dog. Toto the Terrier mix is a great lap dog. He is two-years-old. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 7/9/2026 | Itsy Bitsy, Bobby and Justice | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Itsy Bitsy, Bobby and Justice. Itsy Bitsy has a whole lot of fur. She is a three-year-old domestic longhair cat. Bobby is a one-year-old domestic shorthair cat. Justice was confiscated for neglect, but she is now ready for a good home. She is a three-year-old Labrador. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- Living It Up: Top Things to Do in Central Illinois This Weekend (July 10-12)
- Runtime
- 1:59
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- 🎉 Looking for fun in Central Illinois this weekend? Mark Welp has you covered with the latest edition of Living It Up for July 10-12!
This week: 🦒 Brunch with the Giraffes at Peoria Zoo, ⚾ Chicago Snowballs and CornBelters baseball, 🎶 David Phelps, Rend Collective, Clay Street Unit and Hairbangers Ball concerts, 🎡 the Knox County Fair, and 🌳 Pack the Park family fun in Normal.
Watch now for the top events happening across Central Illinois this weekend!
#centralillinois #WeekendGuide #Peoria #BloomingtonNormal #LivingItUp #ThingsToDo #IllinoisEvents #FamilyFun #Concerts #Baseball
- Title
- South Park's Transformation to Trewyn Park: A Community Story #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:57
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Children pooled nickels and dimes to fund their own park fountain, 'Out In The Rain.' This beloved 10-acre spot later grew with a pavilion and bandstand, eventually renamed Trewyn Park. FULL DOC: "Peoria's Playground: A History of the Peoria Park District" available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App #SouthPark #CommunityLove #LocalHistory #ParkLife
- Title
- Widow Quadruples Estate: Unlocking Investment Secrets #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:16
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- When Tobias died unexpectedly, Lydia defied expectations. Instead of quiet widowhood, she quadrupled his estate, venturing into property development, land reclamation, and even becoming the first woman on a bank's board in Illinois. FULL DOC: "Springdale Cemetery - Memories of a Lifetime" available on WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #BusinessWoman #HistoricalFigure #FinancialGenius #PropertyDevelopment
- Title
- Bloomington's Railroad Boom: A Working Class Revolution #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:03
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Discover how the Chicago and Alton railroad shop transformed Bloomington, doubling its population and creating a thriving industrial middle class through high-paying, skilled trades. FULL DOC: "McLean County: The Early Days" availble at WTVP.org and free on the PBS app. #BloomingtonHistory #RailroadTown #IndustrialRevolution #AmericanHistory #SkilledTrades
- Title
- Fritz Triebel's Statue of Peace: Springdale's Masterpiece Unveiled #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:28
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Discover the Statue of Peace, a masterpiece by Fritz Triebel commissioned by Frederick Block. Joseph Pittardi's subtle marker hints at his true artistic genius. FULL DOC: "Springdale Cemetery - Memories of a Lifetime" available on WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #StatueOfPeace #SpringdaleArt #FritzTriebel #JosephPittardi #ArtHistory
- Title
- Harry Harrison: Peoria's Morning Mayor's Radio Journey #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:20
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Discover the story of Harry Harrison, Peoria's beloved 'Morning Mayor' on WPEO. His genuine connection, personal touch, and 44 years in New York radio cemented his legacy. A true friend on the airwaves. FULL DOC: "Main Street Memories: 1950's" available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #HarryHarrison #RadioLegend #MorningShow #PeoriaHistory #Broadcasting
- Title
- 7/2/2026 | Cruz, Piper and Mae Mae | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:44
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Cruz, Piper and Mae Mae.
Cruz is a large, domestic shorthair cat. He is two-years-old. Piper and Mae Mae are sisters. They are very well-behaved Labrador-Poodle mixes and are four-months-old. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 7/2/2026 | Boomer, Herbie and Journey | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Boomer, Herbie and Journey.
Boomer and Herbie came to TAPS after their owner passed away. They are 15-year-old domestic shorthair cats. Journey was neglected and abandoned when she came to TAPS. She is a four-year-old Great Pyrenees and is very calm. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- Central Illinois Fourth of July Fireworks!
- Runtime
- 2:01
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Living It Up has your full list of towns and locations for Fourth of July fireworks in central Illinois. Watch to find a place near you for booms, bright colors and a brilliant spectacle! Happy birthday, America!
- Title
- Cemetery Picnics: A Victorian Escape in Peoria #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:27
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In the 1800s, Peoria families sought green space. Springdale Cemetery offered a unique solution: a place for picnics and respite from the hot summer, away from urban bustle. FULL DOC: "Peoria's Playground: A History of the Peoria Park District" available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App #PeoriaHistory #VictorianEra #CemeteryPicnics #LocalHistory
- Title
- Carver Center: Black Children's After School Activities #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:52
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- For many African American children, the Carver Center was the heart of after-school and weekend activities. Structured fun from checkers to tap dancing, all for $2.25. A true community hub. FULL DOC: "Main Street Memories: 1950's" available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #CarverCenter #ChildhoodMemories #Community #AfricanAmericanHistory
- Title
- Terrifying River Night: Boat Crashes Through Shoreline! #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:29
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- 25 years experience couldn't stop the struggle. Nearing midnight, fog rolled in, a treacherous bend ahead hid a massive sandbar. A fresh coal load shifted, making the boat unsteerable, drifting towards the shore until a branch broke through a window. Chaos ensued. FULL DOC: "The Sinking of the Columbia" is available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #Riverboat #Navigation #MaritimeDisaster #TrueStory
- Title
- Peoria's Vice: Nightclubs, Red Light District & Betting #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:06
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Explore Peoria's history as a wide-open town, filled with clandestine horse betting, lively nightclubs like Faust, and the infamous Red Light District. A glimpse into the city's less-talked-about past. FULL DOC: "Main Street Memories: 1950's" available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #PeoriaHistory #Nightlife #RedLightDistrict #UrbanHistory #Vice
- Title
- Kent Kleinschmidt | A Shot of Ag | Ep. 640
- Runtime
- 26:48
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Kent Kleinschmidt of Emden, Illinois is technically retired, but he has a reputation for showing up. As a young married man, he started getting involved in local groups and leadership programs and now his influence spreads around the globe
- Title
- McLean County's 1900 Fire: Devastating Blaze, New Beginnings #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:51
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- A devastating fire ravaged downtown Bloomington on June 19th, 1900. In hours, 45 buildings were reduced to rubble, marking a dramatic end to an era and the dawn of a new century for McLean County. FULL DOC: "McLean County: The Early Days" availble at WTVP.org and free on the PBS app. FULL DOC: "McLean County: The Early Days" availble at WTVP.org and free on the PBS app. #BloomingtonFire #HistoricalDisaster #McLeanCounty #1900s #UrbanHistory
- Title
- Edith Barnard: Bringing Harriet Beecher Stowe to Life
- Runtime
- 26:47
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Christine Zak-Edmonds talks with Edith Barnard about portraying Harriet Beecher Stowe through living history. Barnard explores the author's life, the impact of Uncle Tom's Cabin and the beliefs and experiences that shaped Stowe's work, using performance to make a complicated chapter of American history more immediate.
- Title
- Segregated Theaters: A Look Back at Discrimination #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:55
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Restaurants refused service, theaters enforced balcony-only policies for Black patrons. Even within theaters, aisles dictated separation. An era of stark division. FULL DOC: "Main Street Memories: 1950's" available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #Segregation #CivilRights #AmericanHistory #Discrimination
- Title
- In the Arena Promo
- Runtime
- 0:35
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- WTVP is launching a new local show! In the Arena with Doug Cruitt reveals the backstory of your favorite companies and brands that you won’t find on their About Us page. You’ll hear the “why” of the business and what it took to go from idea to action to revenue to scale up. Through these conversations, host Doug Cruitt hopes to spark new generations of founders to think, “I could do that.”
- Title
- Columbia Steamboat: From Work Boat to River Legend #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:12
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Discover the fascinating transformation of the Columbia, once a log-hauling work boat named The Douglas Boardman. Learn how steamboats were reborn with new hulls and a signature tiered design. FULL DOC: "The Sinking of the Columbia" available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #SteamboatHistory #Riverboats #MaritimeHistory #BoatRestoration
- Title
- 6/25/2026 | Woody, Bo Peep and Remi | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:23
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Woody, Bo Peep and Remi.
Woody and Bo Peep are siblings and practically identical. They are three-month-old domestic shorthair kittens. Remi is a small mixed breed dog. The one-year-old can be a little shy. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 6/25/2026 | Jessie, Big Boy and Flaco | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Jessie, Big Boy and Flaco.
Jessie has a very unique and cool look! She is a three-year-old domestic shorthair kitten. Big Boy is a big boy! He is a two-year-old Pitbull. Flaco is also big. He is a ten-year-old Bulldog. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- Bradley's '57 Squad: Breaking Barriers in Basketball #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:35
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In 1954-55, Bradley University's team broke barriers as one of 16 major universities with Black players. While heroes on game days, they faced discrimination off the court, highlighting a complex social landscape. FULL DOC: "Main Street Memories: 1950's" available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #BradleyUniversity #NCAAHistory #CivilRights #CollegeBasketball #BlackHistory
- Title
- Central Illinois Weekend Guide: Festivals, Music & Fun (June 26–28)
- Runtime
- 1:59
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Living It Up is your go-to guide for fun in central Illinois this weekend, June 26–28!
From family festivals to live music and sports, there’s something for everyone. Celebrate at Old Settlers Days in Metamora, catch The Odd Couple at Cornstock Theatre, or watch hot air balloons soar at Pekin’s Dragon’s Fire Balloon Fest. Sports fans can cheer on the Peoria Prowlers and the CornBelters, while music lovers have plenty to enjoy—from the Peoria Pops Orchestra and Old Crow Medicine Show to Buckcherry rocking the riverfront.
Plus, don’t miss free concerts in Bloomington and Normal all weekend long!
👉 Subscribe for more local weekend guides
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#CentralIllinois #PeoriaEvents #WeekendGuide
