Jul 23 Thursday
We’re excited to welcome Mark Whetstone, CEO of Excel IT Services, who brings 15 years of experience in the IT field and a background in Information Systems Security. Since founding his company in 2016, Mark has worked closely with businesses across Southeast Iowa to simplify complex cybersecurity challenges and help protect what matters most.
In this session, Mark will share practical tips and insights to help you build a proactive defense and ensure your technology supports your growth, not your risk.
Join Rebecca Quick to kick off as we conclude the Summer Art Series with a tie-dye day! This class is free to attend and meant for participants in grades K-5. To reserve a spot, please call (309) 734-3033.
Snacks, Prizes, and Games
Want to beat the heat and get a jump start on holiday gifts? We do, too! In this course, we’ll help you create some of our favorite simple and sweet studio projects that are perfect for gifting! Within this three-week hand-building course, we’ll create a set of small dishes, ornaments, and a bell that will be adorned with brilliant gold or silver ceramic luster! We hope you’ll join us as we celebrate the handmade in this relaxing course filled with tons of sparkle and holiday cheer! Join us and learn to create in a fun and supportive environment! Course fee includes clay, glazes, use of tools and brushes, bisque and glaze kiln firings, and weekly open studio hours. Join us and learn to create in a fun and supportive environment! Course fee includes clay, glazes, use of tools and brushes, bisque and glaze kiln firings, and weekly open studio hours.
Maximum of 12 participants. When applicable, safe mask wearing is recommended. Day: ThursdaysDates: July 9, 23, 30Time: 5:30 - 7:30 pmLocation: MPD Ceramics Studio located at 1406 N. Randolph in Macomb, IL. Studio entrance and parking is located at the back of the building.Deadline to register: July 8
Session Fee: $64.00 for Macomb Park District Residents, $85.00 for Non-ResidentsTo register, visit Tinyurl.com/MPDregister, call 309-833-4562, or stop by the park office to register in person!
Public meetings continue to explain the building addition plan proposed for The Legacy Theater in Carthage. In July, the Legacy Theater Foundation board announced a $2 million building plan, “A Vision for the Future.”Meetings were hosted in Warsaw and in Keokuk in June. The next meetings are Thursday, July 23, 6 to 7 p.m. at the Hamilton Community Center, and Thursday, Aug. 20, 6 to 7 p.m. at the Nauvoo Community Center. All are welcome to attend and learn about the plan. The project will create a new, covered entrance on the west side; an expanded lobby with space for concessions; and a multipurpose room. Renderings of the proposed addition and detailed information will be provided. At the time of the announcement, over $500,000 had already been raised toward the project in donations and pledges by leadership donors . For more information about The Legacy Theater, or this new expansion and capital campaign, contact Doug Groth at groth@hogvet.com, or Larissa McShane,director@thelegacytheater.com, 217-357-9479.
Jul 24 Friday
Illinois Extension is excited to announce that CPR in Schools Training Kits are now available for community partners, schools, and organizations to borrow—thanks to the generous support of the American Heart Association. These kits provide an accessible, hands‑on way to teach life‑saving skills across Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren counties.
“CPR is a vital skill that everyone should know, and providing this training throughout Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren counties will help more people be prepared to act when it matters most.” Said Tara Heath, Extension County Director.
Each kit includes video‑led instruction and materials to train 10–20 participants in approximately 45–60 minutes, making it easy for anyone to coordinate a session—no prior CPR experience required.
Kits are available at all local Extension offices (Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties) and can be requested online at go.illinois.edu/CPR . A one‑week notice is requested for pickup, and with two weeks’ advance notice, additional kits can be delivered to an office location if needed. Borrowers will be asked to complete a brief demographic sheet so Illinois Extension can report community impact.
Questions may be directed to Shelby Carlson, Youth Development Educator, via email, srcarls2@illinois.edu.
These CPR kits offer a simple, effective way for local groups to build confidence, preparedness, and stronger, safer communities.
Jul 25 Saturday
Come join the park's natural resources coordinator and learn about the many reptiles and amphibians found at the park and across Illinois. A few live specimens, which may include a nonvenomous snake, a box turtle, frog(s), and a lizard, will be available for viewing (and optional handling). Children will receive handouts to learn more about these interesting creatures and experience many hands-on activities! Meet at the park's visitor center shelter for this program.
Jul 26 Sunday
Jul 27 Monday