Dylan Smith

KEOKUK (WGEM) - You drive past it when traveling to or from Keokuk from the Illinois side, but do you know what it actually does? Lock and Dam 19, or as the sign says, “Keokuk Plant,” has sat on the Mississippi River for 113 years. In fact, July 1 will mark the anniversary of the plant generating its first watt of electricity. In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, WGEM News has showcased the history of the Tri-States, bringing it back to life with monthly “We the People” segments.

QUINCY (WGEM) - Several police departments in the Tri-State region are experiencing a transitional period in leadership with new police chiefs. Some departments, like Macomb, have had their chief retire, and a full-time replacement has already been named. Others, like Quincy, are preparing to experience an interim role and work on the process of getting a new full-time chief. Then, some departments are without a chief entirely, like the Canton Police Department.

MACOMB (WGEM) - Starting this upcoming school year, Western Illinois University’s academic structure will look a little different. Effective July 1, WIU will consolidate into a two-college model. Right now, Western has four colleges: the College of Fine Arts and Communications, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Education and Human Services, and the College of Business and Technology.