Community News
Gov. Quinn Signs New Law
Promoting Cleaner Water and Better Farming Practices
SPRINGFIELD — Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed legislation Tuesday enacting new programs to help Illinois farmers reduce waste of fertilizer and resulting water pollution. Governor Quinn signed House Bill 5539 on Agriculture Day at the Illinois State Fair.
“Nutrient pollution is Illinois’ most widespread water pollution problem, but helping farmers use fertilizers more effectively will bring cleaner water to rivers, lakes, and streams across Illinois,” said Jack Darin, Director of the Sierra Club, Illinois Chapter.
Farmers apply nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen to maximize crop yields. When more nutrients are applied than crops can take up, extra nutrients often wash into rivers and streams in the rain. The excess nutrients fertilize algae in waterways, which leads to explosions in algae populations. These algae populations create foul-smelling, pea green water, and suck oxygen out of the water that fish need to breathe, often leading to fish kills.
The new law will create the Nutrient Research and Education Council (NREC) to provide scientific expertise and new funds to help farmers use fertilizers most effectively, minimizing the amount that runs off into Illinois waters. A new fee on commercial fertilizers will fund research and a grant program to help farmers deploy best practices for reducing fertilizer runoff.
“An active Nutrient Research and Education Council will be a real asset to Illinois’ overall efforts to clean up nutrient pollution,” said Dr. Cynthia Skrukrud, Clean Water Advocate for the Sierra Club, Illinois Chapter, who will serve as a member of the new Council. “Efforts like these to help farmers implement solutions are and important part of an overall strategy that includes steps to also reduce nutrient pollution from all major sources, including sewage treatment plants, urban runoff, and agriculture.”
The new legislation is a product of a unique collaboration between Sierra Club, other clean water advocates, and agricultural organizations. These groups are often at odds over how to reduce nutrient pollution, but worked together to create these new programs. Now farmers will have access to the most up-to-date knowledge on fertilizer application, increasing crop yield, and preventing nutrient leaching. Less water pollution means safer water for drinking, fishing, swimming, and aquatic wildlife.
“These new tools will help farmers make smart decisions about fertilizer application, and that will reduce pollution in our waterways,“ said Jack Darin, director of the Illinois Chapter of the Sierra Club. “We know farmers want to be part of the solution to water quality problems, and now they’ll have access to resources and technical expertise to do so.”
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Mt. Olive, IL — The vibrant community of Mt. Olive is proud to host the 4th Annual International Mother Jones Festival on Sunday, May 4th, celebrating the life and legacy of the legendary labor leader and activist, Mother Jones. The festival runs from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature a variety of live music, engaging programs, and historic tours, culminating in a special tribute at Union Miners’ Cemetery, where Mother Jones is laid to rest.
Highlights of the Festival Include:
- Live Music: Enjoy performances by Casting Runes, Wildflower Conspiracy, and Piasa Canyon.
- Family Activities: Kids and the young at heart can participate in a magic and medicine show by Dr. Longhair, as well as a hands-on shoe-making activity inspired by Mother Jones’ famous footwear used in her miners’ strikes.
- Historical Reenactments: Loretta Williams, the only actress to portray Mother Jones in both her native Ireland (City Cork) and at her final resting place, will perform a special program at the library, bringing Jones’ story to life for audiences of all ages.
Special Events & Tours:
- A shuttle bus will be available to transport visitors between downtown and Union Miners’ Cemetery.
- Guided tours will be offered by docents at the cemetery and the Friends of Mother Jones Museum, providing insight into her life and enduring impact.
Food & Refreshments:
Kazoo Coffee will serve their signature Hell Raiser blend—created in honor of Mother Jones—along with B&K Bakery cookies, as well as a variety of food and beverages to keep festival-goers energized.
In Case of Weather Changes:
All downtown activities will relocate indoors to City Hall and the library, ensuring the celebration continues rain or shine.
Come celebrate the spirit of activism, history, and community at this meaningful event honoring one of America’s most influential labor leaders. Everyone is welcome to join the festivities!
For more information, contact the Mother Jones Museum at 618-659-8759 or email friendsofmotherjonesmuseum@gmail.com.
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The Friends of the Library are excited to invite the community to an exclusive “Snap-On Jewelry” demonstration hosted by jewelry artist Jodi Flack. The event will take place on Monday, May 5th, at 6 p.m. in the Gillespie Public Library.
During this engaging program, Jodi will showcase her beautiful collection of snap-on jewelry, featuring versatile necklaces and bracelets with interchangeable pendants. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the various styles and options available, making it a perfect occasion to find a special gift or add a unique piece to their jewelry collection.
Jewelry will be available for purchase at the event, making it an ideal opportunity to find a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift or a special treat for yourself.
Don’t miss this chance to discover stylish, customizable jewelry and support the Friends of the Library. All are welcome!
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The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that a 14-mile patching and resurfacing project on Interstate 55 from Litchfield to the Macoupin/Madison County line begins Monday, April 21. Work is expected to be completed by the end of September.
Additionally, ramps for Litchfield (exit 52), Mount Olive (exit 44) and Staunton (exit 41) will be resurfaced. Most of the work is expected to take place between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. Sunday nights through Friday mornings.
Lane closures are expected, and message boards will be used to direct traffic through the work zones. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. Benefits of this project include a smoother driving surface.
To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.
