Community News
Make the Traveler: Stop, Shop and Buy
Carlinville, IL: Sign up today for Macoupin Economic Development Partnership’s Fish Philosophy and Traveler Marketing Workshop on March 14. Land of Lincoln Regional Tourism Development Office Director, Heather Wilkins and Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway Director, Bill Kelly will lead participants through a fun, informative program. Located at Carlinville National Bank Conference Room at 450 South Side Square in Carlinville, the workshop will take place from 9 a.m. to 1p.m.
This workshop is great for any small business, civic organization, festival committee or tourism group. Participants will walk away having discovered how to make the traveler: stop, shop and buy, along with skills for quality customer service. Wilkins will guide attendees through the Fish Philosophy. Named for the colorful fish mongers of Seattle, this program discusses how to create a positive work environment, connect with your customers and become engaged with your life. Kelly will then pinpoint who is traveling, how to get on their radar and how to be tourist ready.
The workshop is $10. This fee includes a Fish Philosophy Workbook, breakfast by Magnolias and lunch by Carlinville National Bank. Registration is required. Visit www.macoupinpartners.com to sign up or call 618-409-6044. Space is limited. Deadline to register is March 8.
Wilkins studied marketing at Eastern Illinois University. In 1997, she participated in the World Disney World College Intern Program. She later worked in Grand Canyon Arizona, as an employee of AmFac Parks & Resorts. She has been with the Tourism Office for ten years, serving as director for the past five. The Land of Lincoln Regional Office covers 33-counties, offering assistance in grant writing, general tourism, workshops, informational meetings, production of an annual visitors guide and website.
Kelly grew up next to Route 66 in LaGrange, and the opportunity to become involved with the same road where he got his first ticket led him to become Executive Director of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway in February, 2010. Prior to 2010, Bill held several positions in marketing and management in the Central Illinois area.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how to put your business, town, or event on the map!
The Partnership drives economic growth in Macoupin County by conducting and sponsoring activities that help existing businesses prosper and grow, attract new businesses, and promote responsible development. Their business development program offers small businesses a resource for mentoring, marketing, financial assistance sources and networking. Visit www.macoupinpartners.com to learn more.
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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.
