Around The Town

Daughters of the American Revolution awards area students:
On November 12, area students were awarded the DAR Good Citizen Award and Scholarship. This award and scholarship was created in 1934 with the intention of encouraging and rewarding the qualities of good citizenship in their homes, schools and communities. The students selected must have the following qualities: dependability, service, leadership and patriotism.

Students were awarded with a certificate and the DAR Good Citizen Pin, which has 13 stars to represent the thirteen original colonies, a band of blue enamel identifying it with this society, qualities required, the Laurel Wreath of Honor and the Torch of Understanding.

Recipients of the awards and scholarships are Autumn Green, Waverly High School; Emma Session, Meredosia-Chambersburg High School; Kavuntae Lewiel, ISVI; Dylan Wilson, ISD; Sara Kvorka, Franklin High School (absent); Jocelyn English, Routt Catholic High School; Ella Rajagura, Jacksomville High School; Victoria McGee, Winchester High School; Rebecca Avosse, Beardstown High School (absent); Dalton Hutton, Bluffs High School; Claire Bunch, Westfair High School (absent); and Faith Embley, Triopia High School.


Economic development organization seeks community input regarding future plan of work:
The Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corporation (JREDC) is in the early stages of engaging the community regarding the future of its work.

Committed to promoting economic growth and stability in Morgan and Scott counties, JREDC endeavors to attract new businesses, support existing business and encourage entrepreneurship. Through strategic initiatives and partnerships, JREDC aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and make the Jacksonville region a great place to live and do business.

Responses to JREDC’s survey will help guide the work of the non-profit organization over the next five years. In addition, respondents will be asked questions to help plan the second round of JREDC’s talent attraction campaign. The first campaign launched in May successfully brought five professionals to the Jacksonville region.

“We value the input of Morgan and Scott County residents as we develop strategy to chart a vibrant future for the Jacksonville region,” explained JREDC President Kristin Jamison. “Your participation is critical as we seek to understand our residents’ vision and priorities for our communities.”

Community input will be accepted via the online survey at https://bit.ly/JREDCsurvey until Friday, December 13.


Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau welcomes first Morgan County Marvels — Celebrating local innovation and community spirit:
The Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is delighted to announce the first two honorees of our Morgan County Marvels program, recognizing local excellence and innovation within Morgan County. This inaugural announcement shines a spotlight on two standout contributors: Julie Rowe, owner of 37 South Boutique, for her exceptional candle line, and Adam and Kristin Jamison, owners of Future Champions Sports Complex, celebrated for the completion of a new on-site eatery, adding to the complex’s offerings for visitors and locals alike.

Morgan County Marvels was created to showcase the remarkable achievements and products that are unique to our region. From homegrown products to landmark renovations, the program honors the individuals and businesses making a positive impact on our community.

Brittany Henry, executive director of the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, expressed her enthusiasm for the program and its honorees: “We are thrilled to recognize Julie Rowe and Adam and Kristin Jamison as our first Morgan County Marvels. Their passion and dedication to quality reflect the very best of what the Jacksonville Area and Morgan County has to offer. Through programs like Morgan County Marvels, we aim to celebrate and promote the incredible talent and innovation right here in our community.”

Julie Rowe, owner of 37 South Boutique, shared her excitement about being selected: “Being recognized as a Morgan County Marvel is a true honor. I’ve always believed in the power of locally made products, and our candle line reflects that commitment to quality and care. It’s wonderful to see the community and visitors embrace what we do.”

Kristin Jamison from Future Champions Sports Complex also expressed appreciation for the acknowledgment: “At Future Champions, we are constantly seeking ways to enhance our facilities and provide memorable experiences for families and athletes. The renovation of an existing building into a dining and entertainment space not only enriches our complex, but also strengthens the entire Jacksonville area. We are proud to be among the first recognized by the Morgan County Marvels program for our investment.”

Morgan County Marvels invites community members to continue nominating local products, businesses, and achievements that deserve recognition. The program operates on a rolling basis, with the next round of honorees to be announced in February. Selected Marvels receive visibility on the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau’s platforms, media exposure, and other forms of acknowledgment, all designed to celebrate and elevate the best of Morgan County.

To nominate a Morgan County Marvel, visit our website at jacksonvilleil.org and click on the “About The CVB” tab, then select “Morgan County Marvels.” We look forward to uncovering more stories of local excellence that make Morgan County a remarkable place to visit and call home.

For more information on Morgan County Marvels, contact Brittany Henry at 217-243-5678 or email visitors@jacksonvilleil.org.

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