Antiques & Collectibles Club of West Central Illinois will meet Wedndesday, Sept 16, 2026 at 7:00 pm in the Community Room of Macomb City Hall, 232 East Jackson Program: Learn about Collecting Baseball Cards This month's speaker, Mark Twitchell, will share insights on collecting baseball cards. He is well-known in our local sports card collecting Community as the host of the Macomb Sports Card Show, which takes place twice a year.

Mark began collecting baseball cards in 1980, took a break in 1995, and returned to the hobby in 2015.

Many of us remember collecting baseball cards from packages of bubble gum, although few may recall the early 'T' cards produced by tobacco companies starting in the 1900s. These baseball cards were originally offered as advertising premiums. Collecting cards remains a fascinating hobby for both young and old alike. Join us as Mark explains why baseball cards continue to dominate the national pastime and capture the enthusiasm of millions of collectors.

Meetings are open to the public. We hope you can join us!

Dr. Yusuf provides comprehensive primary care with a strong emphasis on preventive medicine, routine health maintenance and chronic disease management. His clinical interests also include osteoarthritis.

“Preventive care is an important part of helping patients live healthier lives,” said Dr. Yusuf. “When conditions are identified early, there is often much more we can do to treat them effectively or help patients manage them over time. Vaccinations, wellness exams and regular screenings all play an important role in that process.”

Dr. Yusuf completed his family medicine residency through the Mercyhealth Family Medicine GME Consortium in Rockford, Illinois. He earned his medical degree from Washington University of Health and Sciences in Belize. His professional affiliations include the American Academy of Family Physicians, the Illinois Academy of Family Physicians, and the American Medical Association.

Originally from Nigeria, Dr. Yusuf brings experience caring for patients in rural communities and a genuine passion for helping others. His approach to medicine is grounded in treating every patient with the same care and respect he would want for himself or a member of his own family.

“I take life as it comes, remain open to learning, and try to stay grounded in what matters most,” Dr. Yusuf said. “I am excited to join Memorial because I already have friends here, and I look forward to becoming part of the community and helping patients improve and maintain their health.”

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Yusuf to the Memorial Medical Clinics family of providers,” said Tasha Koehler, Executive Director of Clinic Operations. “His commitment to preventive care, experience with rural patients, and compassionate approach to family medicine will be valuable additions to our Colchester clinic and the communities we serve.”

Outside of medicine, Dr. Yusuf enjoys staying active through soccer and pickleball. He also enjoys traveling, woodworking, drawing, and painting.

Dr. Yusuf will see patients ages 10 and older at Memorial Medical Clinic Colchester, 110 Market Street, Colchester, Illinois. To schedule an appointment, call 309-776-3301.

About Memorial Medical Clinics Memorial Medical Clinics provide access to primary and specialty care throughout the region. As part of Memorial Hospital, the clinics are committed to delivering exceptional care close to home and supporting the health and well-being of the communities they serve.

According to Niki Duffy, public information officer and emergency response coordinator, the bat was collected and subsequently tested at the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) laboratory after a Macomb resident reported a possible exposure with household members.

“In Illinois, bats are the primary carrier of rabies, which is a fatal disease caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system and can only be confirmed by laboratory testing. Rabies is medically urgent but not an emergency,” Duffy shared. “Once exposure to rabies is identified, the administration of PEP, the treatment after exposure, should not be delayed. PEP is a dose of human rabies immunoglobulin (RIG), along with several doses of rabies vaccine over a 14-day period to prevent rabies infection.”

Duffy pointed out the best way to avoid rabies is to avoid exposure and take preventative steps, including: Make sure doors, windows, and vents have screens that are securely framed and free of holes, chimneys are capped and gaps around utility lines are plugged.

Do not touch, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or litter.

Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home. Do not try to nurse sick, wild animals to health.

Rabies vaccinations are required for both cats and dogs in Illinois. Be a responsible pet owner and make sure your pets are up to date with their vaccinations.

Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.

McDonough County residents who find a bat in their home and come into contact with the animal, or were in the same room as the animal while sleeping, should contact the health department for guidance regarding exposure, testing and next steps.

“Residents should take care to not have direct contact with a bat, live or dead,” she added. “Please use a shovel or plastic bags to collect a bat for testing, and note that bats must be in good condition (i.e. head intact) and recently diseased in order to be submitted for testing.”

For more information on rabies, call the McDonough County Health Department at (309) 837-9951.

Bearce is represented by Mark Wykoff and Daniel Fultz of Springfield. The case was continued to another pre-trial hearing at 1:30 p.m., Oct. 20, where State's Attorney Matt Kwacala and Bearce's attorney will provide additional information regarding witnesses and any possible plea discussions. Additional motions are expected to be filed by Oct. 16, with responses due by Oct. 23.

See Bearce on page 14 At the Sept. 9 court hearing, Judge Graham ordered the continued detention of Bearce for the protection of the community. He has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and obstruction of justice/destroying evidence in connection with the July 29, 2025 shooting death of Saddoris at 625 N. Randolph St. Bearce has pleaded not guilty and requested a jury trial.

According to police reports following the murder, Bearce admitted that he shot Saddoris six times with a revolver, claiming he fired the additional shots to “put the victim out of his misery' after the initial gunshot. A second man, Sean Hayes, of Macomb, was initially arrested but was released Aug. 19, 2025 after charges were dropped by McDonough County State's Attorney Matt Kwacala, who determined there was new evidence that supported Hayes' release.

Prior to Sadoris' murder, authorities stated the three men (Bearce, Saddoris and Hayes) were smoking methamphetamine at Bearce's Randolph Street home. Hayes initially denied involvement in the shooting but reportedly had admitted to photographing Saddoris' body and cleaning the crime scene.

Bearce claims that he was in another room of the home when he heard a gunshot in his kitchen. He told police he found Hayes in the kitchen standing over Saddoris, holding a shotgun. He then allegedly handed Bearce a revolver and instructed him to put the victim out of his misery. Bearce admitted to emptying the revolver on the victim.

The crime was discovered a few days later when police descended on the home as Bearce loaded a car with drugs and guns. He initially told police that it was 'Sean's mess' in the laundry room. The crime was brought to the attention of law enforcement after Hayes allegedly posted a photo on social media of Saddoris' body.

In spite of being released following Saddoris's murder, Hayes continued to face arrest for numerous other charges. The 38-year-old Hayes was arrested a few months after the murder for two counts of disorderly conduct Oct. 3 for allegedly threatening a McDonald's employee, as well as threatening an individual near T.J. Maxx. On April 24, 2026, Hayes was arrested for allegedly stealing copper from utility vehicles. He was charged with possession of stolen property and possession of drug paraphernalia. In June of this year, Hayes was arrested for criminal trespass, as well as for theft of stolen property. He is set to appear at another pretrial hearing Sept. 15 for the October 2025, April 2026 and June 2026 charges.

150 Farm Families

Roughly 150 farm families were displaced when the government purchased or condemned 17,500 acres of farmland between Table Grove and Ipava. A few families moved to nearby farms, but many left the county to purchase farms in McDonough and surrounding counties.

It was a precarious time. The government didn’t make payments to the farmers immediately, yet many of them were trying to purchase new farms on credit after coming through the Great Depression. There is no doubt some farmers moved to McDonough County. My own grandparents and some of their siblings were among them.

Employment

When the jobs at Camp Ellis disappeared, local workers had to look elsewhere for employment. Jobs that had been previously left open because so many men were serving in the military were now needing to be filled. Macomb offered steady factory jobs within driving distance, as did Peoria.

McDonough County farms were also looking for workers. The closing of Camp Ellis affected the local economy by adding more people to the pool of available workers.

GI Bill and WIU

After World War II, returning soldiers could take advantage of the GI bill, which provided education, home loans, business loans and job assistance. For McDonough County, the education benefits were especially important.

The government paid tuition, books, and living expenses for veterans attending college, vocational schools, and approved training programs. Western Illinois State Teachers College, as WIU was known at the time, had reached its wartime low of just 545 students in 1945 – 1946 school year.

The institution changed its name to Western Illinois University in 1947, and enrollment more than doubled. There were 1,345 students enrolled for the 1947-1948 school year. It is impossible to know how many of those students had served at Camp Ellis and then chose to attend WIU, but the postwar increase clearly contributed to the growth in enrollment.

Some of those soldiers may have found housing in the married student housing section and had a certain sense of déjà vu.

Barracks from Camp Ellis were used as student housing at postwar WIU.

Police

Coincidentally, Camp Ellis also played a role in the early adoption of two-way radios in Macomb police cars. In April 1944, the Macomb City Council authorized the purchase of radios to help deal with problems for those stationed at Camp Ellis who came to Macomb on leave.

Prisoners of War

When Camp Ellis closed, its prisoners of war were transferred to other camps. Under the Geneva Convention, the United States was required to return the prisoners to their home countries, but a few former Camp Ellis POWs eventually returned to the United States.

Kurt Pechmann and his wife returned to Madison, Wisconsin where they established a memorial business. Before the war, Kurt had been a stone mason in Silesia.

Reinhold Pabel escaped from the Washington, Illinois satellite camp of Camp Ellis.

He remained in the United States until 1953, when the FBI discovered him. With the help of a United States Army acquaintance, Pabel eventually returned to the United States.

At least one former Camp Ellis POW returned to McDonough County to farm.

He farmed near Adair in the mid-1970s before moving his family in the late 1970s.

Relationships

A look through the Camp Ellis News shows soldiers marrying local women. Many from McDonough County worked at Camp Ellis and no doubt met their future spouse there. Local families often hosted soldiers for Sunday dinners to help ease their homesickness.

Rooms, apartments, and houses were rented to Camp Ellis officers and their families. General Maxwell, commander of Camp Ellis, rented the Harry Holmes house in Compton Park in June 1943.

These relationships changed people’s lives. My own great aunt and uncle rented rooms to soldiers during the war and remained in correspondence with them until their deaths.

A Lasting Footprint

The impact of Camp Ellis on McDonough County is difficult to quantify. But during a time when the country was deep in a world war, McDonough County did its part to support the wartime effort in many ways.

Camp Ellis may have disappeared, but it left a lasting footprint on McDonough County.

Public Hearings

Prior to the regular meeting, the Council held two public hearings. The first was to hear public comment on the city's plans to offer credit card payments. Only one person addressed the council and spoke in favor of the plan. The second hearing dealt with the Class S liquor license for the Golf Garage. Four individuals spoke in favor of the mayor (who serves as city liquor commissioner) granting the license after the owners Blake and Devyn Denney filed an application.

Regular session

When the regular City Council meeting convened, local resident Gunther Weaver called for the city police to be more vigilant about speeding through the western section of Route 136 through town.

The Council then addressed normal procedures of accepting minutes, approving claims and accounts, and the City Treasurer's report.

Concerning action on the above-mentioned Class S liquor license. The issue of tinted windows came up; Mayor Mark Clark will speak with the Denneys and make the final decision by the end of the week. When asked about hours of operation, Devyn Denney indicated that plans call for the golf instruction and fitness center to be open from 6 or 7 a.m. until 8 or 9 p.m depending on clients and their individualized lessons. The Denneys are exploring being open on Sundays as well.

A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to first readings of several proposed ordinances. They are as follows: — 2026-10, an ordinance to amend Chapter 22 of the City Code regarding a dedicated investment account for a city hall renovation and additional construction; — 2026-11 and 2026-12, ordinances to amend Chapter 22 of the City Code regarding the purchase of police vehicles and public works vehicles; — 2026-13, an ordinance to add Section 12 to Chapter 22 of the City Code to adopt a policy and rules to accept credit card payments for authorized obligations; The Council will act upon the above ordinances at the October meeting.

— 2026-14, an ordinance to add Section 13 to Chapter 22 of the City Code regarding purchases and the uses of purchase orders. A department supervisor may authorize an employee of that department to make purchases when necessary, but there are restrictions: Any purchase up to $500 may be made without prior authorization of the City Council; purchases from $501 to $2,500 would require pre-authorization from the mayor or that department's City Council Committee; purchases over $2,500 would require full authorization from the entire City Council. The Council waived second reading of this ordinance and voted its approval.

Other Business

— Approved a contract with General Code, not to exceed $5,000 for the purpose of updating and codifying of the city code book; — Approved the purchase from B & B Livestock for the installation of a new flatbed for a street department truck for $4,275; — Approved changing part-time summer employee Michelle Taylor to a year-round part-time employee with new duties; — Approved a contract with Prairie Hills Land Bank Authority (PHLBA) code inspector to deal with vacant, abandoned, tax delinquent, or physically deteriorated properties within the city limits and get them back to productive reuse; — Approved cancelling contracts with T-Mobile and entering into contracts with AT&T for MIFI units (forms of WiFi hotspots) for police cars.

In a nearly 3.5-hour meeting of the Colchester Fire Department (CFD) Board of Trustees Wednesday evening, with numerous backand- forth conversations and questions with audience members during the course of the meeting, the external audit of the department’s books, which was conducted by Greg Butler of Butler & Associates of Macomb, was presented. The audit included no hard evidence of criminal wrongdoing, though the report criticized poor financial controls and recommended reforms.

Trustee Mike Weaver received the report Wednesday afternoon, and read most of it aloud during the meeting. The trustees plan to further review the audit findings and then determine next steps at a future meeting.

According to the report, “The principal problem disclosed by the records is primarily one of the financial structure, internal controls and accountability, rather than presently established theft or misappropriation. The district allowed a system to develop under which members could personally purchase goods or services for district purposes, obtain reimbursement through the memorial account, and thereafter submit the same expenditure to the district for reimbursement of the memorial account from the general fund. The memorial account therefore functioned, at least in part, as an informal revolving or bridge account for ordinary district expenditures. That practice should end.”

Numerous recommendations were provided by Butler, as well as the board’s attorney, Dustin Clark of Bougher, Krisher & Clark of Macomb, some of which are already in motion, including complete board oversight of the district’s accounts and purchases. The final recommendation, “refrain from making a criminal referral on the present record, unless additional evidence establishes a transaction that was knowingly unauthorized and accompanied by the requisite criminal intent.”

“This recommendation should not be read as a conclusion that every historical transaction was proper. It is instead a conclusion that the available accounting evidence does not presently establish the specific loss, a specific recipient of any improper benefit, of any improper benefit, or the state of mind necessary to reasonably characterize the matter as theft,” the audit report continued as read by Weaver.

Report Explained

While there is still a matter of around $2,500 that has not been accounted for, Weaver stressed that the report looked at the records that were available, and that the funds that remain unaccounted for do not necessarily point to any wrongdoing. Butler, as well as Clark, also recommended that a limited transaction-level reconciliation focused on the expenditures most capable of producing an actual recoverable loss. The district’s treasurer has been directed to complete a spreadsheet outlining purchases and reimbursements to determine if there is an actual loss.

“Theft requires more than an accounting irregularity. Theft requires that a person knowingly obtains or exerts unauthorized control over another’s property and acts with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of its use or benefit or engages in the equivalent conduct specified by Illinois statute,” the auditor concluded. “The present record is problematic for proving both knowing lack of authority and intent to permanently deprive.”

The report goes on to state, “It is difficult to prove criminal intent when trustees knew about transactions and were reimbursing for said transactions. Thus, the method was not inherently clandestine. The board and district personnel appear to have permitted a practice under which a member could be reimbursed through memorial account first, after which the underlying expense would be presented through the district’s normal financial process. That practice was poor financial management.”

Clark hired Butler & Associates to conduct the audit of the district’s finances following allegations of the misuse of, and missing, money, tools and fuel by former members Robbie Phelps and Michael Phelps, who served as chief and assistant chief, respectively. Both men resigned their positions in June. At the July trustees meeting, it was determined that the external audit would commence as the job was too unwieldy for trustees to complete on their own and because some discrepancies were found in the district’s records.

“The accounting evidence presently makes a criminal characterization even more difficult. Butler could not identify a definite amount that should have been reimbursed but was not. We gave him our bank statements, memorial account paperwork, our board meetings, and our treasurer reports, so basically, they’re looking at figures and they’re trying to get a conclusion based on these figures,” Weaver added. “There is not yet a transaction specifically showing that a particular individual knowingly engaged in prohibited conduct for personal advantage. He also does not recommend that the board presently characterize the historic memorial account activity as theft, fraud, or official misconduct, nor does he recommend a criminal referral based solely on existing aggregate accounting records. Basically, he’s saying, ‘Your accounting records suck.’” Since the August meeting, the trustees now have complete oversight of the district’s Memorial Account, which is going to be split into separate bank accounts for purchases, fundraising and donations with numerous checks-and-balances put into place. In addition, a department-issued credit card will be obtained so purchases can be authorized and tracked.

ISP Improvement

At last month’s board meeting, audience members, including department firefighters, suggested bringing in the Illinois State Police to conduct an investigation. During that meeting Weaver said he would ask the attorney, and at Wednesday’s meeting, he shared he had discussed the possibility with Clark. However, according to Weaver, before the audit was released, a private citizen who is not part of the fire department reportedly has turned over to the Illinois State Police the numerous documents received from the fire protection district through various Freedom of Information Act requests. The Community News Brief cannot currently verify if the Illinois State Police has the documents and will subsequently conduct an investigation.

The Community News Brief inquired about the ISP submission, and subsequently received Thursday morning the following from Evan Schmalshof, who previously worked with Robbie Phelps at the McDonough County Sheriff’s Office: “Yes. On August 14, 2026, I submitted information and supporting documentation concerning the Colchester Fire Protection District to Illinois State Police Crime Tips and requested an investigation/review of the matter. ISP acknowledged receipt of my submission by email at 4:34 p.m. that day. For accuracy, I can confirm only that I submitted the request and that the ISP confirmed receiving it. I have not received confirmation from ISP that a formal investigation has been opened, so I don’t want to characterize the current status beyond that. I submitted the information because I believed the records and circumstances warranted review by an independent law-enforcement agency. Whether an investigation or any further action is warranted is for ISP to determine.”

The Community News Brief cannot currently verify if the Illinois State Police has the documents and will subsequently conduct an investigation. An email inquiry has been submitted to the ISP FOIA officer.

In Other Business

In other business, trustees discussed filling the vacant trustee position following Kory Nichols’ resignation at the July meeting. Following a closed session, the board voted to move John Purdy forward to the McDonough County Board for vetting and approval as a Colchester Fire Protection District Trustee.

Suarez took over the role in January 2026 following the departure of Miranda Lambert. His last day in the office is Sept. 18. According to City Administrator Scott Coker, Suarez is returning to the Chicagoland area as his wife has accepted a position there.

Leonard, who hails from Hanna City, served for four years as an economic development and community development coordinator in Payson, AZ. She will begin her tenure Sept. 21. Prior to serving as the economic development coordinator for Payson, she managed a federal workforce grant at Central Arizona College. While Leonard’s hire was unanimously approved, Alderman Dave Dorsett brought up the city’s hiring practices.

“We have two hirings with no memo that was included in our packet. Under the guidelines for the city administrator, he can hire below the department head level. I appreciate the ability to have some input here tonight, but I believe that we need to reconsider how we're doing with some of these hires,” Dorsett pointed out. “We have a standing personnel committee and if there is a standing committee, then items are supposed to go through them first. So, I believe the personnel committee should be involved in these prior to us getting this lady's resume at the vote.”

The council also approved hiring Jerry Depoy as fleet mechanic in the transportation department. Depoy recently sold Depoy’s Auto Service in Macomb, which he had owned since 1983 In other business, council members approved a change order reflecting higher concrete costs for 2026 road repairs. Public Works Director Alice Ohrtmann said the $1.7 million project would include an additional $109,604 to Gunther Construction for curb and gutter and driveway work in the Rolling Meadows subdivision. Aldermen also approved $68,923 for Complete Asphalt Services for annual crack sealing, this time including the downtown square. A contract totaling $16,541 was awarded to Varsity Striping for pavement marking from University Drive to Wigwam Hollow Road, and at the intersection of East Grant Street and Maple Avenue.

The council okayed a $79,128 package for a car chassis from Landmark Ford and a truck body from Knapheide. Ohrtmann said the new utility truck package was based on the state procurement process. In other business, alderman approved $80,972 to Cummins Sales and Service to replace an engine in one of the city fire trucks as the engine has been overheating and has a cracked cylinder head. The fee includes $1,210 to tow the fire engine to Normal.

Prior to the start of Tuesday’s meeting, the council held a public hearing regarding a consolidated vehicle procurement grant for $485,000 to replace five vehicles in the Macomb Transportation Department fleet. Transit Director CallaBria Putrino told those present that two medium-duty buses and three mini-vans will be replaced. Aldermen later voted to authorize an application to the Illinois Department of Transportation for the grant money. Also approved was the transportation department's agreement to provide emergency services to The Elms at no charge, if needed.

A resolution was approved authorizing $145,312 in Enterprise Zone benefits to iDoc Repair at 1277 Hemp Rd, as was a $5,000 residential rehabilitation program grant to Doug and Cheryl Rossio to build a front porch at 4 Finn Lane. Two downtown facade renovation grants were also approved: $20,000 for Stacy Foxall Allstate Insurance at 28 W. Side Square, and $18,300 for The Book Post at 107-111 South Side Square.

The city council voted to adopt a resolution authorizing an Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program application for enhanced streetscape construction surrounding Chandler Park, and heard the first reading of an ordinance setting compensation for elected city officials. The ordinance will be discussed at the City Council Committee of the Whole next week.

Have you made it to Camp's Orchard yet? They have the most delicious apples, donuts, cider - all the orchard favorites! Hard Cider is hitting the shelves this weekend - I can't wait to try some cider slushies soon!

The Spoon River Drive is happening soon! Get your maps out and make your plans! What a fun way to get out and enjoy the views of the drive as well as the tastes of all the delicious food and the goods all the vendors have to offer.

This is an opportunity to shop from a person and not a company - you get the opportunity to help someone support their family!

Grills Gone Wild is coming up October 17th, hosted by the Bushnell Community Pool. What a fabulous time to show off your grilling talents! Please see their Facebook page for details.

On October 24, the VFW Women's Auxiliary is hosting a Mystery Dinner Theater - 50's Theme. A great opportunity for you to show off your detective skills and solve the mystery! Make plans to attend - it will be a fun night!

September 19 is city-wide clean-up in Bushnell! This is a Saturday - a great time to clean out your garage or basement!

Someone once said, 'You can't add days to your life, but you can add life to your days.' And that one sentence shifted everything for me. We spend so much time chasing time - trying to stretch it, beat it, control it. But what if the real magic isn't in more time, but in better moments? In being present. In laughing deeply. In doing things that bring music to your soul. Now, I focus less on counting days...and more on making the days count. Because a full life isn't measured by how long it lasts but by how deeply it's lived.' - Adeife Adeyere Stay safe and give grace - Robin

The combination of Caramielo’s talent and the powerful music of Celine Dion promises to create a memorable evening. Her mannerisms, look and powerful voice bring the favorite hits of Celine to the stage, such as 'Because You Loved Me,' 'I Drove All Night,' 'The Power of Love' and ' My Heart Will Go On,' all delivered with a talented live band.

Besides “Celebrating Celine,” Caramielo’s signature shows include “Icons & Divas,” a tribute to the biggest voices of this generation; and “Broadway to the Big Screen,” featuring hits from famous theatrical shows and iconic movies.

After studying classical voice at the Civic Light Opera in Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, Caramielo graduated with a bachelor of fine arts in musical theater from Shenandoah Conservatory.

Her early performances were in regional musical theater and opera workshops. Caramielo says her greatest honor to date is performing at the Governor’s Ball in The White House, backed by the United States Marine Band, Navy Sea Chanters, and Air Force Singing Sergeants.

Tickets for this and other upcoming shows are available at the Legacy Theater Box office from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday at 1160 Buchanan (Rt. 136). The box office is open one hour prior to shows.

Buy tickets by phone at 217-357-9479, leave a message if calling outside of box office hours.

Tickets can be purchased online at thelegacytheater. com. See more on Facebook at facebook.com/thelegacytheater.

“Achieving our initial CHAP accreditation is an incredible accomplishment and a proud moment for our entire home care team.

This achievement reflects the compassion, dedication, and commitment to excellence that our team demonstrates every day for our patients and their families,” said MDH Home Health and Hospice Director Michaell Zimmerman, RN. “Going through the accreditation process challenged us to look closely at our practices, strengthen our systems, and ensure that our focus remains where it belongs - on our patients and their individual needs. CHAP accreditation is an important recognition of the work our team does every day, but more importantly, it reinforces our commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in care. This accomplishment validates the quality of care we strive to provide, and it gives our patients, families and community even greater confidence in The MDH Hospice and MDH Home Health.

While The MDH home care programs have always been accredited agencies, we chose CHAP because it is CMS-approved and the only accreditor undividedly focused on home and community‑based care.”

CHAP Accreditation demonstrates that MDH meets the industry’s highest nationally recognized standards. The rigorous evaluation by CHAP focuses on structure and function, quality of services and products, human and financial resources and long-term viability. Simply stated, adherence to CHAP’s standards leads to better quality care.

“I am incredibly proud of our clinicians and staff.

Their hard work, teamwork, and commitment to our patients made this achievement possible. We are honored to receive this recognition and look forward to continuing to raise the standard for home care in the communities we serve. Congratulations to the entire MDH Hospice and Home Health teams,” said Zimmerman.

“By achieving CHAP Accreditation, McDonough District Hospital has shown a commitment to excellence,” said Nathan DeGodt, CHAP President and CEO.

“We are excited to begin our partnership with MDH by offering support in its commitment to providing quality care and continuous improvement.”

MDH offers Home Health Care and Hospice services to patients and their families in and around McDonough County.

ABOUT CHAP

CHAP is an independent, not-for-profit, accrediting body for community-based health care organizations.

Created in 1965, CHAP was the first to recognize the need and value for accreditation in community-based care. CHAP is the oldest national, community-based accrediting body with more than 9,000 agencies currently accredited nationwide. Through “deeming authority” granted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), CHAP has the regulatory authority to survey agencies providing home health, hospice and home medical equipment services, to determine if they meet the Medicare Conditions of Participation and CMS Quality Standards. CHAP’s purpose is to define and advance the highest standards of community- based care.

For more information about the CHAP accreditation process, please visit the CHAP website at https://chapinc.org. For additional information on CHAP, please contact Teresa Harbour, Chief Operating Officer, at 202.467.1701, or teresa.harbour@chapinc.org.

The WIU Department of Art and Design will host Hron’s solo exhibition, titled 'Trompe l'oeil,' running Tuesday, Sept. 15 through Thursday, Oct. 15 at the University Art Gallery. Translated literally from French as 'deceive the eye,' trompe l'oeil is an art technique that uses realistic imagery to create the three-dimensional optical illusion of real objects.

Hron’s painting featured in the exhibition showcases his razor-sharp precision, transforming everyday Americana into a masterclass of realism. At first glance, his rendering of a weathered green garage looks less like oil on canvas and more like a high-resolution snapshot from a neighborhood alley. Complete with chipped mintgreen door panels, warped roof shingles that look ready to slide off, a slightly crooked rain gutter and even a weathered basketball backboard mounted up top, Hron captures the textured patina of everyday domestic life so convincingly that viewers might be tempted to try opening the garage door themselves.

Raised in Omaha, NE, Hron earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Drake University in 1984 and his Master of Fine Arts from the University of Michigan in 1987 before furthering his studies at the State Art Academy in Karlsruhe, Germany. After years of maintaining a studio practice in Omaha and teaching across the Midwest, he accepted a faculty position in 1996 at Bloomsburg University (now Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania, Bloomsburg), where he continues to paint, exhibit nationally and mentor student artists.

Hron’s award-winning work offers a quiet, clever celebration of mundane architectural details, proving that with enough technical skill, even an old backyard garage can become a breathtaking trick of the eye.

The University Art Gallery, located at 1 University Circle in Macomb, is open from 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 1-4 p.m. Saturdays. Admission to the exhibition is free and open to the public.

Get your 'tee-m' of 'fore' together for an 'un-fore-gettable' good time that will help a most worthy cause in Macomb.

The First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Macomb will host a Park Golf Scramble at Ball Fore Entertainment Center Saturday, Sept. 26. All proceeds will go toward raising funds for the church's Emergency Cupboard, which is located at the corner of West Jackson and McArthur Streets in Macomb. The cupboard is available for anyone who is in need of a nonperishable food item any time of day or night. Individuals can simply help themselves. In addition to monetary donations, non-perishable item donations are always in need, noted Pastor Kelly Ingersoll.

Check-in begins at 9:30 a.m., with tee-off starting at 10 a.m. Teams of four are $200 each, which includes lunch, prizes and a 50/50 raffle. Food donations will also be collected at the event. Pre-registration is required by Sept. 18, and can be done by contacting the church office at church@fccmacomb. org or (309) 837-6473.

'Our hope is to raise money while having a lot of fun. There will be all the elements of a golf scramble without the need to be a crazy good golfer. And 100 percent of the funds will go directly to the purchase of food for the Emergency Cupboard,' Ingersoll added. 'In these difficult days, the cupboard is getting used more than before while the cost of providing for the food insecure has risen drastically. We are hopeful for lots of teams and are thankful for our sponsors.'

And before you think this is another golf event … think again. Park Golf is a faster moving game that's designed for novices and seasoned golfers alike (no golf experience is necessary!). The Macomb Park District debuted Park Golf two years ago at Ball Fore on its former driving range. Park Golf is a hybrid game of croquet and an 18-hole golf game, and when it opened in 2024, the Macomb course was only the third Park Golf course in the United States, and Macomb was the first municipality to operate a PG course.

The sport consists of 18 holes with pars 3, 4 and 5. Holes are shorter in length and narrower. Park golf plays faster than traditional golf, with a round typically played in 50-70 minutes. The club used resembles a large putter, and the ball is much larger than a traditional golf ball. The larger size of the ball and straight club face restricts ball flight and drives players to be more accurate.

Park Golf was created in the 1980s, and was designed so that anyone of almost any age and skill level can play the game. For regular golfers, it's a good opportunity to practice and focus on approach shots and putting.'

There was a raffle for scratch-off tickets and our winner for that evening was Melissa Wayland.

Thank you to all who supported us and we hope to see you at our next event.

People who suffer from depression often do not reach out for help due to fear of being judged or misunderstood. Suicide Prevention Week 2026 is September 13 to 19. We need to raise awareness about suicide, offer support to those currently in crisis and those affected by it, and encourage people to take action to prevent it.

When a loved one in crisis approaches us, we need to be willing to ask the question, “Are you considering suicide?” Asking someone if they are considering suicide does not put the idea in their head. It may save their life.

If a person is willing to talk, please listen without judgment. It shows you care and lets the person know you are there for them. Talking is the first step to show you care but it is not enough to ask once about suicidal thoughts. You need to continue to reach out.

You can make a difference in someone’s life when they are struggling. Your voice matters. Encourage open conversations and connect people to proven treatment and resources. Learn about the warning signs how to help on the Adams County Suicide Prevention Coalition website, acsuicideprevention. org. Help is also just a phone call away at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or chat 988lifeline.org, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Blessing Hospital and the Adams County Suicide Prevention Coalition invite you to take this opportunity to bring attention to one of the most important issues in our community. Life is precious. People who are suicidal can and do recover. When we stand together we can make a difference—you can help save lives. Chuck Johnson Coordinator of Psychiatric Services with Blessing Health System

The upcoming classes include:

• Saturday, Sept. 12 – 9 a.m.-2 p.m.: Kids on Campus Careers – Teaching – The Carthage campus is expanding its Kids on Campus programming to include career preparation classes. The first class is for youth, ages 11-15, who are interested in becoming teachers. The session runs from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and will include lunch and a bag of school supplies any new teacher would need. The class is $40 per student.

• Tuesday, Sept. 15 – 6-8 p.m.: Basic Cookie Decorating for Halloween – Learn the basics of sugar cookie cutting and baking, finding the best frosting consistency and decorating Halloween shapes. All cookies, ingredients and decorating supplies are included in the price of the class. The cost is $30 per person.

• Thursday, Oct. 1 – 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. – Day trip to Dutchman’s Store in Cantril, IA, and Harvestville Farm in Donnellson, IA – We will celebrate the start of the fall season with a trip to the Dutchman’s mercantile, followed by a catered lunch at Harvestville, and classes in assembling a harvest basket and pumpkin painting. The trip is $75 and includes everything, except shopping costs.

• Saturday, Oct. 10 – noon- 2 p.m.: Pumpkin Carving - This class is being offered for both individuals and families – No experience is necessary and the class will include the art of pumpkin scraping to make creative designs. The class is $30 (one pumpkin) for one student, or $40 for a family of up to five (two pumpkins).

• Tuesday, Nov. 10 – 6-8 p.m.: Stained Glass Ornaments – Join us to make a stained-glass holiday ornament for your tree. No experience is necessary and all supplies needed are included. The class is $30 per person.

• Thursday, Dec. 3 – 7 a.m.-2 p.m: Day Trip to the Dutch Christmas Market, Kerstmarkt, in Pella, IA: This trip heads to Pella, IA, for the annual three-day Christmas Market, set up on the Molengracht Plaza, near downtown Pella. The trip is $75 and includes roundtrip transportation. Shopping and lunch are on your own.

• Saturday, Dec. 5 – 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Kids on Campus Top Secret Holiday Workshop: Sign up your children, ages 6-11, to work with our elves to create their own custom-made holiday gifts. Through artistic classes, those who participate will create three gifts, their own customized wrapping paper, and have gift wrapping lessons. Lunch will be provided.

• Tuesday, Dec. 8 – 6-8 p.m.: Wreath Making – We are hosting a wreath making class. We will have various ornaments and holiday items that can be added to your creation. The class is $40 per person, and all necessary supplies will be provided.

As additional community education classes are scheduled, more information about each one will be released. To check on the status of each class, or to register, visit https://commerce. cashnet.com/SANDBURGWDCE and scroll down to the section “personal enrichment” to see all of the available offerings.

For more information, contact Sandburg’s Carthage Campus at (217) 357-3129.

The dual credit/dual enrollment program helps high school students get an early start on their college education. By enrolling in specific programs and courses, eligible students can take Spoon River College classes for high school and/ or college credit or gain job training to begin a career after graduation.

“By November 15, dual credit scholarship recipients will be notified based on the number of applicants and availability of funds,” stated Michelle Howe, interim director of the SRC Foundation. The application can be found at https://www.src. edu/foundation/foundation-scholarships-grants Participating high schools include Astoria, Bushnell, Canton, Cuba, Farmington, Havana, Lewistown, Macomb, Rushville, Spoon River Valley, V.I.T., and West Prairie. Homeschooled students who reside within these districts are also eligible to apply.

For more information about dual credit scholarships, visit https://www.src.edu/foundation or call Beth Wilson at 309-649-6221 or Ashley Wyatt at 309-833-6022. For more information about general scholarships, visit https://www.src. edu/foundation or call Michelle Howe at 309-649-6348.

This season also marks a new era for the chorus, with Katey Davis, Lindsey Larson, and Chad Murphy stepping in as artistic directors, succeeding longtime director Carol Davis.

'Every year we welcome back familiar faces and meet wonderful new ones, singers of all ages, all backgrounds. There's no audition process. If you love to sing and want to be part of something joyful, you belong here,' said Lindsey Larson, one of the chorus's artistic directors.

'As has become the tradition, this season's concert will feature sacred, traditional, and secular songs in a variety of musical styles and instrumental accompaniments,' said John L. Davis, chorus conductor.

Rehearsals begin Thursday, September 17, at 6:30 p.m. at First Christian Church, 215 W. Elm Street, Canton.

Tickets will go on sale mid-October. Proceeds fund scholarships for SRC students. Please visit www.src.edu/chorus for more information.

If that sounds impossible, it's not, thanks to the college's new Scots Pledge program, which will take effect with firstyear and transfer students enrolling for the Fall 2027 semester.

'The Scots Pledge makes a Monmouth education even more affordable for qualifying Illinois students by covering the full cost of tuition through a combination of federal, state and Monmouth financial aid,' said Monmouth President Patricia Draves. 'It's one more way we're making a high-value Monmouth education accessible, giving students the opportunity to build meaningful connections, gain resume-enhancing experiences, and work closely with faculty to develop the content knowledge, skills and confidence to graduate ready for success in whatever comes next.'

The Scots Pledge

Monmouth's overall pledge gives students the opportunity to: ** Pursue a major which meets their interests and helps them prepare for a rich life and work after college, whether it's their first job or their fifth. This includes: ** Developing a personal portfolio to showcase their skills and achievements; ** Completing coursework focused on college success and navigating life after college; ** Learning relevant technology skills with tools for today and the future, such as Microsoft Suite and AI.

** Meet with full-time faculty academic advisers at least three times a year to plan and view progress on their personalized opportunities that meet their goals; ** Have a personalized session with the director of career development to map out their internship and career plan; ** Gain meaningful skills through a liberal arts education that employers are looking for; ** Apply for TRIO services for more personalized support; ** Have dessert and fun at the president's house with other Scots Pledge Fighting Scots as part of the first class.

Who Qualifies

Recipients must meet several criteria, including: ** U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen and an Illinois resident; ** A cumulative GPA of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale as determined by the final high school transcript (or college transcript for transfer students) submitted prior to enrolling; ** Eligible for both the federal Pell Grant and the State of Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP Grant); ** Household adjusted gross Income of $100,000 or less; ** Reside on campus; ** Be a full-time student pursuing their first bachelor's degree and taking at least 12 credit hours.

Students who enter Monmouth as first-time freshmen will have up to four years (eight semesters) of eligibility, while transfer students have up to three years (six semesters) of eligibility.

Steps to Take

Jayne Schreck, Monmouth's associate vice president for student financial services, understands there still might be some uncertainty among prospective students about whether the Scots Pledge applies to them. She suggested two steps apply for admission to Monmouth and file the 2027-2028 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) starting Oct. 1.

'The only way to officially confirm your eligibility for the federal Pell Grant and the State of Illinois MAP Grant is to file the FAFSA,' said Schreck. 'Our first financial aid offers for the Fall of 2027 prospective students will be released by Nov. 23, 2026. We encourage you to file the FAFSA as soon as possible using your 2025 federal tax returns.'

'The Scots Pledge helps bring greater transparency to the college search process by giving qualifying students and families more confidence about affordability,' said Stephanie Levenson, Monmouth's vice president for enrollment management. 'At the same time, it opens the door to the high-quality, personalized education that defines the Monmouth experience and provides school counselors and advisers with another tool to help students achieve their college goals.'

More Information

The Scots Pledge does not apply to fees, housing, meal plans, additional course fees, books, internships and any other charge a student may incur above and beyond tuition for the fall and spring semester.

Students who don't meet the qualifications for the Scots Pledge program will continue to be considered for Monmouth's other generous financial aid programs.

'When you file your FAFSA and share it with Monmouth College, we will prepare a comprehensive financial aid offer for you outlining all the sources of funding for which you qualify,' said Schreck.

To learn more about the Scots Pledge program, prospective students are advised to contact their admission counselor or a member of Monmouth's Office of Student Financial Services. Information is also available at https://www.monmouthcollege. edu/offices/student-financial-services/.

While much of the work in Springfield happens through committee hearings and floor debates, the true measure of success comes when legislation is signed into law and investments begin making a difference in communities across western Illinois.

Over the past several weeks, I have been pleased to see a number of bills I sponsored or supported become law, while our region has also benefited from important state investments that will strengthen housing, education and quality of life for years to come.

Strengthen Oversight of Professional Guardians One of the issues I have worked hardest on this year has been protecting vulnerable Illinoisans. Earlier this summer, legislation I sponsored to strengthen oversight of private professional guardians was signed into law. The measure establishes stronger qualifications, background checks, financial safeguards and reporting requirements for individuals serving as guardians, helping protect those who are unable to advocate for themselves.

Every Illinoisan deserves to know that vulnerable family members will be treated with dignity, compassion and accountability, and this new law represents an important step toward restoring confidence in the guardianship system.

Welfare of Companion Animals Another new law addresses the welfare of companion animals by ensuring law enforcement officers have clear authority to protect pets when an owner is arrested for a tethered animal offense. While this may seem like a small change, it closes an important gap in state law and helps ensure animals receive proper care while promoting safer outcomes for both first responders and the community. Responsible pet ownership benefits everyone, and I was proud to help advance this commonsense legislation.

Affordable Housing Investments I was also encouraged to see significant affordable housing investments announced for our district.

Through the Illinois Housing Development Authority, two new developments — Valley Homes in Rock Island and Burlington Terrace in Galesburg — received Low-Income Housing Tax Credit awards that will support the construction of 120 affordable housing units for seniors. These projects will provide safe, modern housing while allowing older adults to remain in the communities they have helped build throughout their lives. Affordable housing is essential infrastructure that supports families, strengthens neighborhoods and contributes to long-term economic growth.

Education

Education and community investment also remain central priorities.

Earlier this summer, more than $600,000 in grants were awarded to public libraries and school districts throughout western Illinois to support literacy programs, technology, facility improvements and school library resources. Our libraries and schools serve as community anchors, and continued investment in these institutions helps create opportunities for learners of every age.

Supporting Veterans Supporting our veterans is an important area of focus. I was pleased to see several new laws signed this summer that expand educational opportunities for service members returning to civilian life, strengthen Illinois National Guard recruitment efforts and continue advancing innovative approaches to veteran mental health care.

Illinois has a responsibility to stand behind the men and women who have served our country, and these measures represent meaningful progress toward that goal.

Continued Meetings Throughout the summer I have also continued meeting with healthcare providers, educators, local officials and community organizations across the district. Those conversations consistently reinforce that western Illinois succeeds when we invest in strong schools, accessible healthcare, affordable housing, vibrant downtowns and economic opportunities that allow families to thrive. Listening to residents remains one of the most valuable parts of this job, and those discussions continue to shape the priorities I bring back to Springfield.

Highlighting Awareness As August continues, several observances remind us of the importance of preparing for the future while caring for one another. Throughout the month, we recognize National Immunization Awareness Month, Back-to-School Safety Month, and Black Business Month, highlighting the importance of healthy communities, student success and local economic opportunity. We also just celebrated National Farmers Market Week, recognizing the contributions of Illinois farmers and local food producers.

For More Information As always, my offices in Rock Island and Galesburg remain available to assist residents with state programs, agencies and constituent services. Thank you for the continued privilege of serving western Illinois in the Illinois Senate. Visit senatorhalpin. com/contact-us.

Macomb Middle School students explored the events of September 11, 2001, and the lasting impact of that day. The following reflections capture the lessons they found most meaningful and the reasons those lessons resonated with them.

The most important thing I learned about September 11, 2011:

• Is how many people’s lives and their family lives got affected by this tragic event.

Claire L.

• Is that everyone was helping people to safety because it shows that if people work together everything works better. Morgan

• It affected people many years later, and it led to changes such as better security measures. Ben B.

• I learned that there was a fourth plane and that everyone on that plane sacrificed their lives to save others. Jennie G.

• Is that it is ok to have trauma because it can be hard to forget something so tragic.

Bailey S.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Roseville Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to establish an education fund for Wade and Miles. Moore Memorial Home, Roseville, is handling the arrangements.

The Macomb L.I.F.E. program is affiliated with the national organization, Road Scholar: Elderhostel Institute Network (EIN). It is independently administered by area residents who develop the courses, select the teachers, establish the fees, and promote the curriculum.

For over 30 years, the LIFE program has offered a wide array of non-credit courses on various topics. These courses are offered every spring and fall semester and there is truly something for just about everyone.

If you are looking for a trip away, check out our Community Expeditions. Instructors for these programs include university faculty as well as community members who desire to share their knowledge and time.

For more information or to register for a class please go to wiu. edu/life or call the office at (309) 298-1911.

Alignment Chair Yoga for Easy Living This introduction of core yoga principles and information about how the muscles, bones, nervous system, and connective tissue work together will help explain the way we move through life. We will discuss how what we do every day with our bodies builds deep inner strength, balance within and without, ease, and connection. The teacher, who has taught chair yoga for years, will guide the class through simple movements, both seated and standing, with chair support. This class is appropriate for all abilities.

Instructor: Kathy Ganyard, a graduate of Macomb High School and University of Illinois, was a certified and licensed yoga therapist, massage therapist, and wellness counselor. Cost: $10 Date: Wednesday, Sept. 16, from 1 - 2 p.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Armchair Traveler

Thursday, September 17: Portland and Columbia River Cruise - Steve and Janet Hopper spent a few days touring Portland, Oregon and the Willamette Valley before enjoying a river cruise along the Columbia and Snake Rivers. You will be amazed by the ever-changing landscapes along the way.

Thursday, September 24: Our Beautiful National Parks - Jim and Nancy Unruh will present their recently completed several years' journey to visit and explore all 46 national parks of the continental United States.

Thursday, October 1: Springtime in Holland - Join Cindy Cavett as she shares a beautiful Springtime River Cruise of Holland and Belgium, which was sponsored by the YMCA of McDonough County in April, 2026. Highlights will include the Keukenhof Gardens (featuring more than 7 million tulips and other flowers), Amsterdam, and the picturesque city of Bruges, Belgium. Cost: $15 Coordinator: Steve Hopper has coordinated the LIFE Armchair Traveler program for several years and has traveled to all seven continents.

Dates: Thursdays, Sept. 17, 24, and October 1, from 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site Maximum Enrollment: 35 Beekeeping: Hive Inspections Brad Wagoner will discuss how a bee colony works and what happens during a bee inspection. You will see some of a beekeeper's equipment including a smoker, a bee suit, and the frames inside the bee box. The instructor will talk about various problems and pests a bee colony encounters such as mice, skunks, varroa, beetles, mites, and various diseases. Cost: $10 Instructor: Since 2020 Brad and Jen Wagoner have owned and managed The Woods Apiary in Macomb.

Date: Tuesday, Sept. 15, from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Fall Gardening: Preparing for the Spring Season The growing season may be over for many home gardeners, but there is much you can do to prepare for next year. The instructor will deliver timely tips on how to get your lawns, landscaping, and vegetable beds ready for spring. Cost: $10 Instructor: Chris Enroth is currently a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension serving Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties.

Date: Monday, Sept. 14, from 10 - 11 a.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 25 The Middle East During the Ottoman Empire, and The United States and the Middle East Post-World War II In the first class Dr. Roberts will consider major developments in the Middle East during the 500-year reign of the Ottoman Empire, from the conquest of Constantinople through the eve of World War I. It will focus on the expansion and nature of Ottoman rule and some of the Ottomans' encounters with Europeans and Americans. In the second class Dr. Filipink will examine the evolution of American relations with the nations of the Middle East after WWII. From the emergence of an independent Israel, the decline of British and French imperialism, and through (and beyond) the Cold War, the Middle East has been a centerpiece of American foreign policy. We will examine how and why that happened and its implications for the future. Cost: $10 Instructors: Dr. Tim Roberts is a WIU history professor. Before coming to Macomb he taught history in Ankara, Turkey, where he and his family lived for six years. Dr. Richard Filipink is a WIU history professor specializing in the Cold War, US politics, and foreign policy.

Dates: Monday, Sept. 21 and Tuesday, Sept. 22, from 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Preventing Bank Fraud

Fraud is growing more sophisticated, and scammers target people of every age, background, and income level. We will offer you practical tools to recognize scams, prevent fraud, and confidently navigate your digital financial life. By the end of this session, you'll be able to spot warning signs, know when a link is legitimate, and protect your accounts with simple habits. Cost: $10 Instructors: As VP of Operations, Kara Johnson leads fraud awareness efforts, helping staff and customers recognize risks and protect accounts through proactive education and controls. Susan Baldwin, Senior VP of Retail and Marketing, focuses on customer experience while promoting fraud awareness and safe banking practices. Both are employed at MidAmerica National Bank.

Date: Wednesday, Sept. 23, from 9:30 - 11 a.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Seventy Years a Barber

This program will explore the rich history of barbering, including the origin of the barber pole, the era of barber-surgeons, and the many changes that have shaped the profession over the past seventy years. Guests will also enjoy a guided tour of the shop's unique collection of artwork, featuring pieces from local artists and artifacts from around the world.

Cost: $10 Instructor: Jerry Tyson, a barber for over 70 years, started when he was just 19. Back then haircuts cost $1.

Date: Monday, Sept. 21, from 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Place: Barbershop, 110 W.

Carroll St.

________. ___ _________ ___ ________________ This is a casual tour of the university art gallery. The instructor will discuss three current exhibitions: Mayuko Ono Gray, Vincent Hron, and Joseph Jesse Ovalle.

Cost: $10 Instructor: Tyler Hennings, Director, Western Illinois University Art Gallery Date: Friday, September 18, from 10 - 11 a.m.

Place: WIU Art Gallery, behind Sherman Hall, 1 University Circle Parking: Around the gallery for free. If you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

This course explores how the comprehensive rebuild of WIU's largest division, Academic Affairs, was begun and implemented. The class will review the various aspects of the Division, the factors that led to the decision for a 'Rebuild,' and the process of the implementation of the first two phases of the Rebuild itself. In a larger sense the class will engage the following topics: the notion of the public good in higher education policy; the realities of a 'state in name only' higher education budget; the significance of a university mission; and managing expectations and identity. Cost: $10 Instructor: Dr. Mark Mossman is a Professor of English. He currently serves as the WIU Provost and Academic Vice President.

Dates: Thursday, Sept.

17 from 10 - 11 a.m. and Wednesday, Sept. 30 from 1 - 2 p.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

The deadline to apply is September 25, 2026. Applications can be found at https://www.src.edu/foundation/ foundation-scholarships-grants/fellheimer-scholarship For more details about this scholarship, contact interim director Michelle Howe at 309-649-6348 or visit SRC Foundation Scholarships.