JCJ News
JERSEY: Hundreds of Santas descend on Grafton for SantaCon ‘23
By Cory Davenport Last year, nearly 500 Santas from across the multiverse and Metro East came to Grafton for its annual SantaCon, but this year shattered that record. With the goal of bringing joy and cheer to Grafton’s “off season” of the winter months, Alison Rohan created SantaCon five years ago to give folks a…
Read MoreBoard appointments still point of contention in County Board
By Cory Davenport The Jersey County Board again found itself locked in arguments regarding the appointments of folks to various county boards and committees at its meeting Tuesday night. After starting with the usual pledge and prayer to Jesus, the board voted unanimously to pay bills of $804,129.47, approve updated language in its drug and…
Read MoreCity approves tax levy ordinance and proposal for splash pad equipment
By Steven Spencer Jerseyville City Council approved the 2024 Tax Levy Ordinance, with no modifications after posting for public viewing, at the Tuesday, Dec. 12, council meeting. A motion was approved during the meeting for a business registration ordinance after concerns about new businesses coming into town and not being the proper zoning area. It…
Read MoreGrafton’s Holiday Parade expected to be largest yet
By Cory Davenport Three years ago, the decision was made by the people of Grafton to create a holiday parade befitting the town’s unconventional nature. It all started with a few folks donning holiday lights and decorations on their personal vehicles and driving around Grafton in mid-December going to different bars. It was then stated…
Read MoreT-Shirt Company Joins the Fundraising Fold for Grafton Veterans’ Memorial
By Cory Davenport The founders of SeedtoSewn, LLC were drawn to Grafton through Witches on the Water. Founded in April 2023, the newly-formed t-shirt company was created by Joellen Sudmeier and Christopher Grigsby in Collinsville. The duo has a combined four decades in retail and wanted to find a new source of happiness (and sanity)…
Read MoreArts Council holding contest to create new Holiday displays
The Jersey County Arts Council and Downtown Country Christmas Inc. are seeking the help of local children in developing three holiday displays to be added to next year’s Bright Nights display. One winner will be selected from each of the following age groups: • 5- and 6-year-olds • 7- and 8-year-olds • 9- and 10-year-olds…
Read MoreJersey Community Hospital District receives Icahn 2023 ‘Impact’ Award
The Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network (ICAHN) announced its 2023 “Community Project” winners, including Jersey Community Hospital District, Jerseyville, for the CARES Consortium Revitalization Project during the organization’s 20th Anniversary Annual Conference held November 28 and 29 at the I-Hotel and Conference Center, Champaign. They are joined in this honor with Lincoln Memorial Hospital, for…
Read MoreOrnaments from nature
By Andrew Holsinger | University of Illinois Extension As the vibrant colors and fragrances of flowers have faded from the outdoor landscape, the journey towards winter compels us to seek solace and beauty indoors. Embracing nature by incorporating its elements into our holiday décor is a delightful way to infuse warmth and creativity into the…
Read MoreLet’s Cook! – December 13, 2023
The other night I tried a new recipe for a beef stew that turned out to be really good, and somewhat different from most that I have made. This recipe called for parsnips, wine and beans. We both liked it, and my husband declared it a keeper.
Read MoreDon’t delay winter prep: A guide to December garden tasks
By Chris Enroth I thought I was doing better this holiday season. I made a list, checked it twice, and then awaited Cyber Monday deals. Here’s the problem about Cyber Monday, I had to work that day! Not only was I at work, but I also had a calendar full of boring work stuff that…
Read More