My response to the Wall Street Journal Article about Macomb, IL. 5/20/25 I agree that there has been decline at WIU and lots of changes, which I am hoping they are turning around, because they have a history of having some truly wonderful teachers who really care about their students (in fact, my husband just retired last week after 31 years at WIU.)
The thing about Macomb? I've lived in a lot of other places. Anchorage. Kansas City. St. Charles, MO. And lots of places in between.
But the reason I have stayed here for 25 years is that Macomb is such a lovely little place to live.
I think we are at the cusp of a turning point for positive things.
There are such caring people in Macomb. It is safe. We have a thriving Downtown Square - which is outstanding. We have an Amtrak line to Chicago twice a day.
Macomb is a wonderful place. People work together. They care about each other.
Is it small? Undoubtedly. Out of the way? Definitely. But, instead of dying, I see Macomb as having rich opportunities for the right people - entrepreneurs, restaurants, people to work remotely, young families, and older adults wanting quality care. We have excellent community colleges, K-12 schools, and facilities for older adults. Our housing market is amazing and the cost of living here is very low.
You actually couldn't find a nicer small town.
Macomb is transforming. We can't rely solely on WIU anymore, we have to grow our town into something more sustainable on its own - which so many of us are doing, piece by piece. And WIU, will hopefully turn the tide and begin to grow into its new identity, as a smaller, more focused school.
I feel new energy coming to our lovely little town.
I've owned Free Range Yoga and Community Wellness Center for 13 years and I love Macomb and I love the people here. I've seen a lot of changes and weathered a lot of hardships, but Macomb is holding its own.
And Macomb is such a welcoming place. I'd like to invite people to come check out all we have to offer. If you want to start your own business or raise your family in a small, caring community, come check us out.
We are out of the way - here in 'Forgottonia' - but honestly that's not a bad thing. The pace is a little slower. Life is a bit less hectic here than in a bigger, city.
In Macomb people are resilient. They are hard workers. And they are kind.
I've never lived in a place that was more delightful.
I highly recommend our town to anyone who wants to grow with us. There are lots of possibilities and a rich environment.
Dawn Piper, owner Free Range Yoga and Community Wellness Center 118 and 122 N Lafayette St. Macomb, IL 61455
