Jacksonville to host bicentennial time capsule burial ceremony May 26
The Jacksonville Bicentennial Committee will host a community time capsule burial ceremony May 26 as part of the city’s 200th anniversary celebration.
The event will take place at Central Park Plaza in downtown Jacksonville and is open to residents and visitors.
Time capsule contents will be available for public viewing from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., featuring letters, memorabilia and other items representing Jacksonville in 2025.
A ceremony will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed immediately by the burial. Residents may still submit letters for inclusion.
Special preservation envelopes are available for $20 at the Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce. The deadline is May 8.
“This time capsule will allow us to capture a moment in Jacksonville’s history during our bicentennial year,” Mayor Andy Ezard said.
For more information, contact the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at jacksonvilleil.org or 217-243-5678.
Farm bureau honors first baby born during National Agriculture Week
The Cass-Morgan Farm Bureau recognized the first baby born during National Agriculture Week, held March 15-21, with a gift presentation at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital. Matthew Zareko Lewis was born at 11:47 p.m. on March 17. The newborn and his parents, Kaitland Gregory and Taylor Lewis, received a basket filled with clothing, books, toys and supplies.
“We love showering the first baby born in Agriculture Week with some ag-related gifts,” said Lindsay Ryan, Cass-Morgan Farm Bureau manager. “It is a fun way to raise awareness about the role agriculture plays in our world.”
Jacksonville police arrest suspect in series of burglaries
Jacksonville police have arrested a suspect in connection with multiple burglaries reported across the city between March 26 and April 1.
Detectives identified Miles D. Pelehowski, 29, as a suspect following an investigation that included witness accounts and video surveillance.
Police said Pelehowski was arrested April 1 and is accused of seven counts of burglary and one count of criminal damage to property. He is also believed to be connected to a burglary reported Jan. 13.
He is being held at the Morgan County Jail pending a pretrial detention hearing. Authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Jacksonville Police Department Investigative Division or Crime Stoppers at 217-243-7300.
Underground Railroad exhibit to open at Jacksonville Area Museum
A new exhibit highlighting Illinois’ role in the Underground Railroad will open April 11 at the Jacksonville Area Museum. “Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad” will run through Aug. 1 and is free to the public.
The exhibit features stories of freedom seekers and conductors, along with photos, videos, maps and illustrations. Local history will also be incorporated.
Associated events include:
April 11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Grand opening
April 11, 6 p.m.
Chris Vallillo performance at The Chapel
May 9, 6 p.m.
Historical reenactment at Centenary UMC
June 19
Juneteenth programming and panel discussion
July 11
Cemetery tour at Diamond Grove Cemetery
The Jacksonville Area Museum is located at 301 E. State St. in Jacksonville. Hours are Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sundays from 1-4 p.m.
Grab ‘n Grow Greenhouse to celebrate fifth season opening in Rigatoni
Grab ‘n Grow Greenhouse/The Witty Farmer invites the community to celebrate the opening of its fifth season on Saturday, April 18, at 11 a.m.
Located in Riggston, the popular local greenhouse will reopen its doors with a fresh selection of vegetable plants, herbs and flowers for gardeners of all experience levels.
Visitors can tour the bright greenhouse, get inspired for the growing season ahead, and connect with fellow plant enthusiasts in the community.
The event will feature delicious food from Leo’s Pizza on Wheels food truck, which will be on site serving fresh pizza slices throughout the morning.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, this is the perfect opportunity to stock up on plants and enjoy a fun, community-focused event to kick off spring and the new season at Grab ‘n Grow.
Grab ’n Grow Greenhouse is located at 1235 Sauer Rd. In Riggston. For more information, follow Grab ‘n Grow/The Witty Farmer on social media or contact them directly. Come celebrate the start of another great growing season with us in Riggston—see you there!
Triopia Jr./Sr. High to present ‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’
Triopia Jr./Sr. High School will present the musical, “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” on April 18 and 19.
The production features student performers and is open to the public. Additional ticket and performance details are expected to be announced by the school.
