JACIL holding “A Night at the Races” fundraiser March 9:
Jacksonville Area Center for Independent Living (JACIL) will hold its “A Night at the Races” fundraising event on Saturday, March 9. The event will take place in Hamilton’s Fireside Room, 110 N. East Street in Jacksonville.
Admission for the fundraiser is $30. Doors open at 6 p.m., while the first race starts at 7 p.m.
Ticket price includes admission, hors d’oeuvres and $10 in “playing money” to begin your “Gambling for Charity Experience.” Those who purchase tickets at the door will NOT receive the $10 in “playing money.” Hors d’oeuvres will be served until they are gone.
The event is limited to the first 100 people who purchase a ticket. Cost of a table (if purchased prior to the event) is $200 and includes 8 tickets plus $10 “playing money” for each ticket holder. This saves $5 off per admission. All attending will receive an “official race program” that provides true and accurate information about each horse’s past performance record.
“Playing money” purchased is non-refundable. All race winnings paid out in U.S. currency.
There will be a silent auction at the event, so don’t forget to bid on your favorites and check those bids often. Additionally, a large screen TV will be raffled off at the end of the event; raffle tickets are $5 for one or $12 for three.
Proceeds to benefit Jacksonville Area Center for Independent Living.
Call JACIL at 217-245-8371 to purchase tickets in advance or more ticket information. Tickets will also be available at the door the date of the fundraiser.
Plant the Gift of Life Blood Drive in celebration of National Agriculture Month scheduled for March 15:
Did you know about 62% of the U.S. population is eligible to give blood? But, only about 3% do. By making an appointment to help save lives with the American Red Cross in March, donors can yield significant increases needed in the American blood supply and keep it from falling to shortage levels.
The Midwest Agriculture and Arts Complex (in the former MacMurray Hall) at 225 South Clay Street is hosting the “Plant the Gift of Life” blood drive in celebration of National Agriculture Month. The drive, hosted in partnership with the American Red Cross seeks to reinforce the longstanding commitment that farmers, gardeners, and rural families have to their local communities.
“The commitment of the agriculture industry and farmers is year-round, but during National Agriculture Month we recognize all that they contribute both on and off the farm,” said Michael Woods, farmer, agriculturalist and community member. “Planting the Gift of Life is one way we honor all that the agricultural industry and local farmers bring to the table while giving back.”
As a thank-you, all blood donors will receive agricultural giveaway items. Donors can schedule an appointment to give using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
“My family and I are passionate about giving back beyond the work we do to grow locally grown produce at the Mainstreet Farms aGROWhoods in Jacksonville” said Michael Woods. “Our community isn’t just our livelihood, it’s our home and we are committed to making an impact here for generations to come.”
Celebrating National Agriculture Month by giving back to communities who support the agricultural industry is a gesture that farmers and rural families find rewarding and worth doing year after year.
The Art Association to celebrate 67thannual Beaux Arts:
The Art Association of Jacksonville is pleased to announce the theme of this year’s Beaux Arts Ball, Summer in Santorini, in honor of the 67th annual Beaux Arts Ball. The annual event, planned for Saturday, April 27, serves as the primary fundraiser for The Art Association of Jacksonville with proceeds used to promote art appreciation and education for all ages at The David Strawn Art Gallery. The theme was introduced February 3 at the gallery’s monthly opening by the General Co-Chairs Carrie Cole, Sarah Cors and Katie Soer.
Focusing on art appreciation and education, The Art Association of Jacksonville brings awareness of all art-old and new- through the David Strawn Art Gallery’s permanent exhibits and monthly gallery showings, which are free to the public. The association also provides children and adults in the area the opportunity to explore different forms of art through its art class offerings.
The ball is the association’s primary fundraiser with proceeds used for those exhibits and classes, as well as funding renovations and upkeep of the historic gallery building.
The lead up to the ball includes the anticipation of the crowning of the king and queen along with honoring last year’s royalty from 2023. This year, the festivities will be held at Illinois College Rammelkamp Chapel.
The three co-chairs of the 2024 ball have selected the theme Summer in Santorini. “As the chairs of the premiere fundraiser for The Art Association, Carrie, Sarah and I were eager to announce this year’s theme,” said Soer.
“This year’s ball, “continued Cors, “was inspired by the beautiful, bright colors, blue floral patterns and the blue roofed churches in Santorini.”
The fine artwork of ancient frescoes and pottery uncovered on Santorini also played a role. “The art, architecture and beauty of this Greek island represent what we want to bring to this year’s Beaux Arts Ball,” Cole added.
Erica Melcher will design this year’s set that will tie the blue roofed churches and bright colors together. The co-chairs designed the logo with this year’s “Summer in Santorini” theme in mind.
This year’s “blind” raffle will include all edible things Greek – from Greek wine to Greek olives and olive oil, to delicate deserts like baklava.
Prior to coronation there will be a champagne reception from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at The David Strawn Art Gallery. All ball attendees and guests are invited to attend this portion of the festivities before going to Rammelkamp Chapel for the coronation.
Patron and general tickets will be available online at strawnartgallery.org and at Illinois College Rammelkamp Chapel prior to the Beaux Arts Ball on Saturday, April 27, where the coronation will begin at 7 p.m. Immediately following the coronation at Rammelkamp Chapel will be entertainment by Trio de Groove and hors d’oeuvres at Jacksonville Country Club. Patron tickets are $50 and include admission to the reception, coronation and dance, while general tickets are $10 and include the coronation and champagne reception. An interpreter will be available upon request at the coronation for persons who are deaf or hearing impaired, as well as handicap seating. Call The David Strawn Art Gallery office at 217-243-9390 or visit strawnartgallery.org for more information.
Follow “The Art Association of Jacksonville” on Facebook for more information about The David Strawn Art Gallery and Beaux Arts Ball.
Duncan Mansion presents “High Tea and Table Games” – A Nostalgic Afternoon of Elegance and Fun:
The Duncan Mansion is thrilled to announce an exclusive event, “High Tea and Table Games,” set to take place on Sunday, April 28, from 1-4 p.m. This unique gathering combines the classic elegance of high tea with the joyous camaraderie of table games, promising an afternoon of sophisticated fun and relaxation in the mansion’s historic parlors.
For a special price of $100 per table, groups of four can immerse themselves in the luxury of the Duncan Mansion’s grandeur, enjoying a selection of fine teas served by the daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) at 1 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring their favorite games or cards to enjoy with friends, family, or fellow history and tea enthusiasts. The Mansion will beautifully provide cloth-covered card tables and chairs, setting the stage for a memorable experience amidst the opulence of a bygone era.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, April 28
Time: 1-4 p.m.
Location: Governor Duncan Mansion, 4 Duncan Place, Jacksonville
Admission: $100 per table (seats 4), includes tea service and playing time
Reservations: Required. Please contact Susan Hardin at 217-553-7023 to secure your table.
The “High Tea and Table Games” event is a perfect opportunity to step back in time and enjoy the simple pleasures of tea and games in an exquisite historical setting. Whether you’re a history buff, a tea aficionado, or just looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon, this event promises an unforgettable experience.
Spaces are limited, and interested parties are encouraged to book their tables early to ensure participation in this exclusive event. For reservations or more information, please contact Susan Hardin at 217-553-7023.
Join us at the Duncan Mansion for an afternoon where history, tea, and games converge in a delightful blend of past and present. Don’t miss this chance to create lasting memories in one of Jacksonville’s most treasured landmarks.
Jacksonville Kiwanis Club to host annual Pancake and Sausage Day:
The Jacksonville Kiwanis Club is excited to announce its much-anticipated annual Pancake and Sausage Event, set to take place on March 11, from 6 a.m.-7 p.m. at Cured (former McClelland Dining Hall). This beloved community tradition promises a day of delicious food, family fun, and fellowship, all in support of a great cause.
For 75 years, the Jacksonville Kiwanis Club has been hosting this event to bring the community together and raise funds for local youth programs and initiatives.
Event Details
Date: Monday, March 11
Time: 6 a.m.-7 p.m.
Location: Cured (former McClelland Dining Hall)
Admission: Advance Tickets Only $8, $10 at the door
Reservations:
**Tickets** are available for purchase in advance from any Kiwanis Club member or at the door on the day of the event. Prices are $8 for advance tickets and $10 at the door
“The Pancake and Sausage Event is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a community celebration that brings people together for the youth,” said Darin Gehrke of the Jacksonville Kiwanis Club. “We are proud to continue this tradition and one hundred percent of the proceeds will support the youth in the community.”
We invite the entire community to come out and enjoy a day of great food and fun. For more information about the event or the Jacksonville Kiwanis Club, please contact Darin Gehrke at 217-883-1247.
Area schools donate to 2023 United Way Annual Campaign:
Our Saviour School Principal Stevie VanDeVelde and teacher Amy White, along with a couple of students, presented a check for $2,760.54 to Karen Walker, executive director of Prairieland United Way recently. The money was raised during Catholic Schools Week through a friendly money war, as well as a non-uniform day, and will be added to the 2023 United Way Annual Campaign.
Prairieland United Way 2023 Campaign Co-Chairs Kristen Reed and Kristin Jamison were presented with a check for $1,300 from Triopia Grade School recently. They are pictured here with some of the students and Principal Jamie Hobrock. The money was raised during their 100th day and will be added to the 2023 United Way Annual Campaign
