WTVP
Hidden History: A Community's Cultural Hub! #shorts
- Title
- Hidden History: A Community's Cultural Hub! #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:58
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- This building offered more than just education; it was a resource for the entire community. Featuring meeting rooms, a concert space, an ice cream parlor, and even spaces for sewing and baking, it was a true hub for arts, politics, and cultural events. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4eXE1GU #CommunityCenter #LocalHistory #CulturalHub #ResourceCenter
- Title
- Epilepsy and Seizures: What You Need to Know
- Runtime
- 26:47
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Mark Welp talks with OSF HealthCare neurologists Dr. Thandar Aung and Dr. Tiffani Franada about epilepsy and seizures. They explain the difference between a seizure and epilepsy, how symptoms can appear, links to multiple sclerosis, diagnosis and treatment, and what to do when someone is having a seizure.
- Title
- Segregation Shock: "We Pay Like Whites, Sit Where We Want!" #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:23
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- John refuses to be moved, demanding an end to segregation in the theater. A powerful stand against injustice. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4wwoqDP #CivilRights #Equality #StandUp #Theater
- Title
- Best Things to Do in Peoria & Central Illinois This Weekend (Aug. 7-9)
- Runtime
- 2:01
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Looking for fun in Central Illinois this weekend? Mark Welp highlights the best events happening August 7-9, including the Peoria Chiefs vs. River Bandits, River City Gospel Fest, Tracy Lawrence, Ignite Peoria, the Illinois Oz Festival, Logan County Fair, The Addams Family, Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, the Inside Out Arts Festival, and the Goo Goo Dolls in Bloomington.
📍 Featured events across Peoria, Bloomington-Normal, Lincoln, Mapleton, and beyond.
Subscribe for more local events, arts, entertainment, and community stories from around Central Illinois.
#CentralIllinois #PeoriaIL #LivingItUp #WeekendEvents #IgnitePeoria #GooGooDolls #TracyLawrence #IllinoisOzFestival #RiverCityGospelFest #PeoriaChiefs #BloomingtonIL #ThingsToDoInIllinois
- Title
- Glen Oak: A Victorian Dream Built in 1895 #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:27
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Witness the 1895 transformation of Glen Oak. From rugged hills to a grand boulevard, conservatory, and pavilion, this park's construction was a feat of engineering and vision. FULL DOC: "Peoria's Playground: A History of the Peoria Park District" available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App #GlenOakPark #VictorianEra #ParkHistory #LandscapeArchitecture #EngineeringMarvel
- Title
- Thompson Lake: 15,000 Years of Thriving Ecosystem #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:25
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Teeming with life for millennia, Thompson Lake is a vital backwater sanctuary. Its shallow waters and rich surroundings support diverse plants and animals, a crucial food source both above and below the surface. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4aOnBOx #ThompsonLake #Ecosystem #Wildlife #Nature #IllinoisRiver
- Title
- Building on Success: Announcing WTVP Stronger Together! #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:39
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Building on success, WTVP launches 'Stronger Together' to secure public media's future for the next 25 years. A new era begins now. FULL EPISODE: https://bit.ly/WTVPNow301 #PublicMedia #WTVP #Community #FutureOfMedia
- Title
- Lydia's Vision: From Watch Factory to Horological Institute #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:43
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In the 1880s, Lydia envisioned a school for practical arts and sciences. Her journey led her to purchase the Fredonia Watch Company, relocating it to Peoria to create an empty building. This space would later house the Parsons Horological Institute, fulfilling her educational ambitions. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/3R75Gf6 #Lydia #PeoriaWatchCompany #EducationalHistory #Innovation #Horology
- Title
- Can Data Centers and Clean Energy Grow Responsibly?
- Runtime
- 25:31
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Mark Welp reviews environmental wins and losses from the Illinois legislative session and updates local responses to proposed data centers. Advocates and industry voices debate water and energy safeguards, while a Dunlap solar farm shows how sheep can manage vegetation and keep agricultural production working alongside renewable energy.
- Title
- Unusual Cemetery Secrets: Judge's Tombstone Revealed #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:15
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Discover unique grave markers shaped like caskets, crafted from sandstone, and adorned with intricate carvings and crosses. A striking contrast to typical memorials, these tombs stand raised above ground. FULL DOC: "Springdale Cemetery - Memories of a Lifetime" available on WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #Tombstone #Cemetery #GraveMarker #History #Unusual
- Title
- Lincoln's 'Lost Speech': Stopping Slavery's Spread #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:40
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- The true story behind Lincoln's position on slavery: not abolishment, but containment. Learn how moderates aimed to control its spread, ensuring a natural death for the institution. FULL DOC: "McLean County: The Early Days" availble at WTVP.org and free on the PBS app. #Lincoln #Slavery #History #USHistory #CivilWar
- Title
- Stroke Recovery: Physical Therapy at Bradley University #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:41
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- After a stroke, feeling like a person with goals, not just a patient, is key. Physical therapy at Bradley University focuses on strength and potential, aiding a full recovery. FULL EPISODE: https://bit.ly/4bmXyhx #StrokeRecovery #PhysicalTherapy #Rehabilitation #BradleyUniversity
- Title
- Annie Turnbo Malone: Pioneering Haircare Education & Global Business #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:05
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Annie built a haircare and beauty empire with 32 US schools and global product sales. She championed self-love and faith, mirroring modern business strategies with daily prayer and community reflection. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4eXE1GU #AnnieMagee #BeautyPioneer #BlackHistory #Entrepreneurship #Haircare
- Title
- Told NO! Kids Denied Library Cards Because They Were Mexican #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:52
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- From discrimination to education, Mexican immigrants and their children in Galesburg forged a path. Balancing cultural heritage with American integration—a story of resilience and belonging. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4wwoqDP #ImmigrantStories #Galesburg #CulturalHeritage #Resilience #Community
- Title
- Living It Up: Central Illinois Weekend Fun | July 31-Aug. 2
- Runtime
- 2:01
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- 🎉 Living It Up with Mark Welp is your guide to fun across central Illinois for the weekend of July 31-August 2!
This week features FriYays at Glen Oak Park, Monsters of Yacht in Peoria, The Princess Concert at the Peoria Civic Center, the McLean County Fair, women's professional softball in Normal, Anthology's Allman Brothers tribute, roller skating at Grossinger Motors Arena, a free concert with Chicago Farmer and Dan Hubbard, and a family-friendly performance from Laurie Berkner.
📍 Featured events in Peoria, Bloomington and Normal
🎵 Live music
🎡 Fairs and family activities
🥎 Professional softball
🛼 Roller skating and more
#livingitup #CentralIllinois #PeoriaIL #BloomingtonIL #NormalIL #WeekendEvents #ThingsToDo #IllinoisEvents #LiveMusic #FamilyFun
- Title
- Glen Oak Lagoon: A Breathtaking Spectacle Built From Dreams #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:05
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Once a simple ravine, the Glen Oak lagoon became a breathtaking centerpiece. From ice skating to exotic gardens, witness the passion and surprising donations that transformed this park. FULL DOC: "Peoria's Playground: A History of the Peoria Park District" available at WTVP.org and free on the PBS App #GlenOakPark #ParkHistory #Lagoon #CommunityProjects
- Title
- Nature's Resilience: Dormant Seeds Reclaim Farmland! #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:33
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- After 80 years of farming, turning off the pumps allowed hydrology to be restored. Dormant wetland seeds from decades ago unexpectedly re-emerged, creating vast stands of cattails and lotus. Nature's comeback is astonishing. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4aOnBOx #NatureRestoration #WetlandEcology #Resilience #SeedBank #ConservationSuccess
- Title
- WTVP: Your Trusted Source for Local Stories & Future! #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:24
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- WTVP is dedicated to empowering our community through reliable educational programming, fostering connections, launching new local shows, embracing a digital-first approach, and delivering diverse local stories across all platforms. FULL EPISODE: https://bit.ly/WTVPNow301 #CommunityImpact #LocalEducation #PublicMedia #DigitalStrategy
- Title
- Why They Came: Farming
- Runtime
- 1:46
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Central Illinois' rich prairie soil attracted generations of farmers seeking opportunity. Explore how agriculture transformed the landscape, strengthened communities and established a tradition of innovation and stewardship that continues today.
- Title
- Real Estate Investor Turns Marshland Into Gold! #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:10
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Lydia transformed 680 acres of marshland bought for $10/acre into land worth $140/acre. Her secret? Soil testing and a single nutrient: potash. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/3R75Gf6 #RealEstate #Investment #LandFlipping #BusinessGrowth #SuccessStory
- Title
- Detweiller Park: A Father's Legacy in Peoria #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:45
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In 1927, Thomas Detweiller donated 140 acres, initially met with skepticism. This land, now Detweiller Park, overlooked the river, honoring his father's memory. It's become a dominant name in Peoria, spawning parks, a golf course, and a marina. FULL DOC: "Springdale Cemetery - Memories of a Lifetime" available on WTVP.org and free on the PBS App. #PeoriaHistory #ParkDistrict #CommunityLegacy #Detweiller
- Title
- Why They Came: Mining
- Runtime
- 1:41
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Discover how rich coal deposits beneath Central Illinois attracted workers, powered industry and helped build communities throughout the region. Learn how the mining industry shaped the economy and left a lasting mark on the people who called Central Illinois home.
- Title
- Why They Came: Railroads
- Runtime
- 1:46
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- As railroads expanded across America, they transformed Central Illinois by connecting communities to new markets, industries and opportunities. Learn how the railroad helped shape the region's economy and future.
- Title
- Illinois Wesleyan: Founding Story of Historic University #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:43
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- In 1850, a diverse group of 30 people established Illinois Wesleyan University. Key figures included Charles Merriman, editor of the Western Whig, and Reverend John Barger, a Methodist Church leader. FULL DOC: "McLean County: The Early Days" availble at WTVP.org and free on the PBS app. #IllinoisWesleyan #HigherEducation #UniversityFounding #History
- Title
- Dream Home Project with Addison: Love and Building Together #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:19
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- There's nothing better than working alongside someone you love and care about. Spending quality time together is a truly wonderful, indescribable feeling. FULL EPISODE: https://bit.ly/4bmXyhx #CoupleGoals #Teamwork #Love #QualityTime
- Title
- Weather, Broadcasting and Bond: Chuck Collins
- Runtime
- 26:47
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- From a young age, Chuck Collins was fascinated by three things: James Bond, broadcasting and weather. He pursued meteorology and enjoyed a career that spanned five decades. Now in retirement, he can dive deeper into his Bond fandom.
- Title
- Why They Came: Brewing & Distilling
- Runtime
- 2:01
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Once known as the Whiskey Capital of the World, Peoria became a national leader in brewing and distilling through abundant natural resources, expanding transportation and the expertise of immigrant entrepreneurs. Discover how this remarkable industry helped shape Central Illinois and left a legacy that can still be seen today.
- Title
- Annie Malone: African American Philanthropist & Visionary Icon #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:02
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Annie Malone, a true philanthropist, dedicated her life to empowering Black communities and children. Her legacy lives on through the Annie Malone Children and Family Service Center, honoring her vision and generous spirit. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4eXE1GU #AnnieMalone #Philanthropy #BlackHistory #SocialImpact #Legacy
- Title
- From Crazy Idea to Startup: Bridging the Communication Gap! #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:39
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- A wild idea sparks a realization: a major communication breakdown. Can this startup bridge the gap and find a solution? The journey begins now. FULL EPISODE: bit.ly/WTVPArena101 #StartupLife #Innovation #Communication #Entrepreneurship
- Title
- Why They Came: The River
- Runtime
- 1:41
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Before highways and railroads, the Illinois River connected Central Illinois to the nation. Discover how this vital waterway fueled trade, encouraged settlement and helped communities and industries flourish along its banks.
- Title
- Mom's Tough Life: Feeding Workers, Fighting Discrimination #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:05
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Emilia Masile and her mother's journey showcases unwavering strength and dignity against the odds. Their story is a testament to enduring hardship with grace. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4wwoqDP #Resilience #Dignity #OvercomingAdversity #Inspiration
- Title
- Living It Up: Top Things to Do in Central Illinois This Weekend (July 24-26)
- Runtime
- 1:51
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Looking for something fun to do in Central Illinois this weekend? From River & Rails Fest and Fiesta en el Rio to the Pekin Downtown Super Cruise, Peoria Chiefs baseball, the Fulton County Fair, live music, and the final performances of Annie, we've got your guide to the biggest events happening July 24-26.
🎡 Festivals ⚾ Baseball 🚗 Classic Cars 🎶 Live Music 🎭 Theater 🎠 Family Fun
Subscribe for more local entertainment and event coverage across Central Illinois.
#CentralIllinois #PeoriaIL #BloomingtonIL #WeekendGuide #FiestaEnElRio #RiverAndRailsFest #PeoriaChiefs #ClassicCars #LiveMusic #LivingItUp
- Title
- 7/23/2026 | Bowie, Zira and Sarabi | Mark's Furry Friends Extra
- Runtime
- 1:35
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Bowie, Zira and Sarabi.
Bowie is a two-month-old, domestic shorthair kitten. He is gray with cute white markings. Zira and Sarabi are sisters. These two-month-old Labrador-Australian Shepherd mixes are full of energy! Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- 7/23/2026 | Tin Man, Frown and Selena Gomez | Mark's Furry Friends
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Mark introduces us to Tin Man, Frown and Selena Gomez.
Tin Man is a gray and white, domestic shorthair kitten. He is two-months-old. Frown is three-months-old. He is a black, domestic shorthair kitten. Selena Gomez is shy, but sweet. She is a five-month-old Labrador. Help us find good homes for these animals!
- Title
- Grandview Drive: Theodore Roosevelt's World's Most Beautiful Drive #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:53
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Experience the magical journey of Grandview Drive, from industrial riverfront to peaceful woods, culminating in Peoria Heights. 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 #ScenicRoute #TravelInspiration #USHistory
- Title
- My Obsession with English: Losing Myself, Mastering a New Tongue #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:46
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Obsessed with learning English after moving to the US, he feared losing his Portuguese heritage. A journey of linguistic dedication fueled by heritage preservation. FULL EPISODE: bit.ly/WTVPArena101 #EnglishLearning #Bilingual #CulturalIdentity #ImmigrantExperience
- Title
- Nature Reclaims Illinois Farm: A Scientific Homecoming #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:53
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Once a massive agricultural operation, this land is now transformed. Pumps silenced, tractors gone, cattle moved aside. Rainfall revived dormant seeds, bringing life back and filling the skies with flight. Mother Nature's homecoming. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/4aOnBOx #NatureReclamation #EcologicalRestoration #Rewilding #Conservation
- Title
- Best Job Ever! Child's Drawing Touches Hearts at WTVP #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:44
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Witness the genuine impact of WTVP – a child's heartfelt thank you card tells the story. Join our panel as they share the profound fulfillment found in supporting community and family milestones. FULL EPISODE: https://bit.ly/WTVPNow301 #WTVP #CommunityImpact #FamilyMilestones #MakingADifference #Gratitude
- Title
- Lydia Bradley: Peoria's Visionary Philanthropist & Park Founder #shorts
- Runtime
- 2:24
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Discover how Lydia Bradley's investments and vision shaped Peoria. From funding the opera house to establishing its park system and influencing healthcare, her impact is profound. FULL DOC: https://bit.ly/3R75Gf6 #LydiaBradley #PeoriaHistory #Philanthropy #CommunityImpact #HistoricalFigures
- Title
- Teacher's Belief Changed My Entire Perspective on Humanity! #shorts
- Runtime
- 0:34
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Discover how Mrs. Boyle's unwavering belief transformed a student's outlook on humanity. See the incredible power one person's faith has on shaping a young mind and future. FULL EPISODE: bit.ly/WTVPArena101 #TeacherImpact #StudentSuccess #Inspiration #Education
- Title
- Dr. Zeller's Revolutionary Asylum Reforms: A New Era #shorts
- Runtime
- 1:35
- Date posted
- 4 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
- 4 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
- 4 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
- 4 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
- 4 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
- 4 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
- 4 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
- 4 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
- 4 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
- 4 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!
