Market Outlook Seminar featuring Matt Bennett, AgMarket.Net

Matt Bennett, Co-Founder of AgMarket.Net, will be the featured speaker on Thursday, November 14 at 6:15 p.m. at Lavender Crest Winery, 5401 US Highway 6, Colona. Dinner will be served followed by the local grain market update from Tom Parchert of River Valley Cooperative. Reservations are required and must made by November 7 to guarantee your attendance.

Matt Bennett is a co-founder of AgMarket.Net. He is also a Windsor, Illinois, farmer and former grain elevator owner. He is Channel Seed’s grain marketing consultant and holds a Series 3 brokerage license doing business through AgMarket.Net, Farm Division of JSA. Matt brings the producer perspective to the table, enriched with his extensive grain marketing background. He specializes in formulating risk-management strategies for corn, soybean farmers and livestock producers.

Matt’s analysis and commentary on the grain markets appears on various TV and radio stations across the Midwest, including “AgDay”, “U.S. Farm Report”, “Market to Market” and “This Week in AgriBusiness”.

A graduate of University of Illinois, Matt and his wife Tiffany live on the family’s centennial farm north of Windsor, where they are raising their five children. He owns and operates a 3,000-acre corn and soybean farm with his father while raising 60 head of registered Angus cows.

Additional dates and speakers for the 2024-2025 series include:

    • March 13, 2025 – Joe Camp, CommStock Investments

    • July 1, 2025 – Chip Nellinger, Blue Reef Agri-Marketing

Cost for the series is $90.00 and a single session is $35.00 (if not pre-registered cost will be $40.00). To make reservations, please call the Henry County Farm Bureau (309) 937-2411, Rock Island County Farm Bureau (309) 736-7432 or Mercer County Farm Bureau (309) 582-5116.

The Market Outlook Seminar Series is sponsored by the Henry, Rock Island and Mercer County Farm Bureau Marketing Committees, in conjunction with: Gold Star FS, COUNTRY Financial, BankORION, COUNTRY Crop Insurance, Central Bank, Compeer Financial, Big River Resources, River Valley Cooperative, Wyffels Hybrids, Hertz Farm Management, Blackhawk Bank & Trust.

Henry & Stark County Health Department & Henry County OEM Note National Emergency Preparedness Month

Raeann Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
September 27, 2024

The Henry & Stark County Health Departments and Henry County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) note that this September we mark the 23rd year anniversary of 9/11.   Since then, September has been designated as National Preparedness Month.  This event was founded after 9/11 to increase preparedness in the U.S.  RaeAnn Tucker, Director of Health Promotion, states, "The designation is a nationwide, month-long effort that encourages individuals, families, businesses, and communities to work together and take action to prepare and plan for emergencies." 

    The goal for National Emergency Preparedness Month 2024 is to encourage all Americans to take active steps toward getting involved and becoming prepared.  Preparedness is a shared responsibility; it takes a whole community.   This year's National Preparedness Month focuses on turning awareness into action by encouraging all individuals and all communities nationwide to make an emergency preparedness plan. 

     This year's theme for National Preparedness Month's is, “Start a Conversation.” Talking about bad things that could happen like a disaster or emergency isn’t always easy. We may think we’re protecting the people we love by avoiding these conversations, but it’s important to start taking steps to get ready and stay safe. Starting a conversation today can help you and your family to take more actions to prepare. By taking simple steps, you can build your preparedness at your own pace: 

     National Preparedness Month is a good reminder that emergencies will happen, but taking action now can help us minimize the impact they will have on our lives.  That's why the Health Department and OEM staff are continually taking steps to become educated, trained, and better prepared, and we urge you to take time this month to do the same. 

    For more information on the Health Department's Emergency Preparedness visit our website at www.henrystarkhealth.com or visit www.ready.gov. or find us on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Department.  Funding for this program was provided by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Illinois Farm Bureau, National Education Center For Agricultural Safety Celebrate National Farm Safety and Health Week

BLOOMINGTON, ILL. — The Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) is once again collaborating with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) to promote farm safety and health during National Farm Safety and Health Week, which will take place from September 15-21, 2024. This year's theme, "Don't Learn Safety by Accident," is dedicated to raising awareness about the hazards of working in agriculture. It underscores the importance of prioritizing the health and safety of those who work tirelessly to provide our abundant supply of food, fiber, and fuel. 

“We’re excited to help promote and support NECAS’s efforts in keeping farmers and farm families safe,” said Katie Laleman, Manager, Henry County Farm Bureau. “Harvest season can be particularly dangerous for farmers with long hours and stress of weather delays, equipment breakdowns or high operating costs, and this year’s activities will reinforce the importance of organizations like ours working together to ensure farmers make it home safely to their families at night.”  

Each day of the week has a designated topic of focus to promote various aspects of farm safety:

  • Monday, Sept. 16 – Equipment and Rural Roadway Safety

  • Tuesday, Sept. 17 – Health and Wellness

  • Wednesday, Sept. 18 – Generations of Farming

  • Thursday, Sept. 19 – Confined Spaces

  • Friday, Sept. 20 – Reporting Ag Injuries

     

The 2021 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that the agricultural sector remains the most hazardous industry in America, with 453 fatalities, equating to 19.5 deaths per 100,000 workers. Fall harvest time is particularly busy and perilous for those in agriculture. Consequently, the third week of September has been designated as National Farm Safety and Health Week to emphasize the importance of safety and health in this critical industry. 

“Farmers are notorious for their work ethic and determination, both qualities that also can be a detriment when it comes to safety,” said Laleman.  “While farm safety is top of mind every week for farmers, their families and their employees, National Farm Safety and Health Week is an opportunity to spotlight safety reminders that keep those both inside and outside the agriculture industry aware and mindful during the busy harvest season.” 

For more information about National Farm Safety and Health Week, contact your local county Farm Bureau, visit www.necasag.org, or contact Donna Gallivan at 309-557-2350 or dgallivan@ilfb.org.  

The Henry & Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Announce “Walk-In” School Ready Exam Clinics on Monday, August 12th from 12-6pm in Kewanee, Colona and Toulon

Raeann Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
July 30, 2024

First Choice Healthcare reminds residents they will be holding a special “Pop Up Walk-In” School & Sports Exam days on Monday, August 12 from 12pm-6pm at their clinic locations in Kewanee, Colona and Toulon. 

     These special clinics will offer school & sports physicals at a cash price of only $40.  Those with insurance coverage, please bring insurance information if billing to insurance. 

   The clinic will offer area Junior High and Senior High School Athletes, Freshmen, Sixth Graders, Kindergartners, and Preschoolers school or sports physicals.  Please note, to help reduce wait times, arrive with your physical forms (obtained through your local school districts) already completed.   

    For more information you may call the First Choice Healthcare clinic nearest you: Kewanee, 110 N. Burr Blvd. 309-852-5272; Colona, 103 1st St. 309-792-4011; or Toulon, 120 E. Court St. 309-852-3115.

Farm Bureau to Host “Safety Starts with YOU”

Katie Laleman, FBCM, Manager
Henry County Farm Bureau®
July 2, 2024

Have you thought about safety for you and your family? Do you want to see demonstrations and receive free giveaways and information? Looking for a great, free event for the whole family to attend?

The Henry County Farm Bureau Health and Safety Committee will hold a FREE community event focused on areas of safety, health, and wellness. Join us on Wednesday, July 10, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Central Bank Pavilion, 218 North State Street, Geneseo, IL. Following the event will be the Central Bank Concert Series featuring “3 On The Tree”, from 7:00-9:00 p.m.

The event will feature exhibitors that will highlight Grain Bin Safety & Rescue, CPR and “Stop the Bleed” Demonstrations, Mental Health, Ag Equipment Driving Simulator, “Touch a Tractor” and Overall Health & Wellness. Plan to enjoy food vendors along with safety demonstrations, kids’ activities, giveaways and much more!

Exhibitors will include Gold Star FS, Wyffels Hybrids, Henry County Sheriff’s Department, Henry County Health Department, Henry County Mental Health Alliance, Geneseo Fire Department, Bishop Hill Fire Department, Geneseo Police Department, Cintas, Prairie State Tractor, Operation Lifesaver Illinois and Henry County Farm Bureau.

Join us for this FREE community event focused on safety and open to the public. Enjoy great information, handouts and giveaways. An event for the whole family! For more information contact the Henry County Farm Bureau at (309) 937-2411 or email manager@henrycofarmbureau.org.

Blood Drive Is May 28 at Geneseo Library

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive on Tuesday, May 28, at the Geneseo Public Library, 805 North Chicago St. The drive will begin at 1 p.m. and continue until 5 p.m.

Donors are asked to make an appointment by calling 1-800-733-2767 (1-800-RED Cross).

According to information received, blood donors are needed, and anyone donating blood will receive a Tetris and American Red Cross T-Shirt while shirt supplies last, and names of donors will automatically be entered into a drawing for a trip for two to New York to meet Tetris creator Alexey Pajitnov.

Donors can complete their health history questions (Rapid Pass) online using any device before their visit at redcross.org.

The Red Cross Blood Donor app is available at Google Play or at the app store. The app allows those planning to donate to schedule their appointment, complete Rapid Pass, view previous donations/health histories and follow their blood donation.

It’s also recommended that those planning to donate increase their vitamin C to their diet by eating fruits and leafy green vegetables, such as strawberries, tomatoes, spinach and Brussels sprouts.

Anyone with questions about donating, getting a Red Cross ID card or who would like more information, is asked to call 1-800-733-2767 (1-800-RED CROSS).

The Henry & Stark County Health Departments & First Choice Healthcare Celebrate National Women’s Health Week, May 12-18, 2024

Raeann Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
MAY 10, 2024

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare announce that this Mother's Day-Sunday, May 12th, acts as the official kick-off for National Women's Health Week, May 12-18, 2024. 

    The goal of Women's Health Week is to empower women to make their health a priority.  National Women's Health Week also serves as a time to help women understand what it means to be well.  This year’s theme, “Empowering Women, Cultivating Health: Celebrating Voices, Wellness & Resilience,” is dedicated to empowering women to take charge of their health journeys.   

    As we celebrate National Women's Health Week, we will also focus on what it means to be a well woman.  The fact is it's really a state of mind.  It's being healthy as you can be.  And, most importantly, it's about takings steps to improve your physical and mental health.  Important steps include: 

* Continue to take steps to protect yourself by staying up-to-date on recommended vaccinations. 

* Getting at least 2 1/2 hours of moderate physical activity, 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity, or a combination of both each week. 

* Eating a nutritious diet.  Eat mainly fruits and vegetables; grains (at least half should be whole grains); fat-free or lowfat milk and dairy products; fish, skinless poultry and lean red meats; and polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. 

* Visiting a health care professional for regular checkups and preventative screenings. 

* Paying attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress. 

* Avoiding unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking/vaping, texting while driving, and not wearing a seatbelt or bicycle helmet. 

    During Women's Health Week, the Department hopes to raise awareness of the women's health services available at their First Choice Healthcare locations.  The First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona and Toulon offer area women such services as annual exams, pap smears, pregnancy testing, contraceptive counseling and supplies, clinical breast exams, fasting blood profiles, immunizations, and our mental health services.  Payment for Department services include private pay, medicaid, and most insurances. 

    Every woman should have access to affordable health care services. We encourage local women to take advantage of the savings offered through our First Choice Healthcare Clinics.  To find out more about the First Choice Healthcare Clinic’s health services for women call at Kewanee 309-852-5272; Colona 309-792-4011; or Toulon 309-852-3115.  Also find us on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments or Follow Us On Twitter and Instagram.

From the Village of Atkinson

ADVISORY: On Wednesday, May 8th, water will be shut off from 7:30am-5pm for all residents heading North down Washington St. to 2nd St., and from Washington to Church St. A boil order will follow until further notice.

On Thursday, May 9th, water will be shut off from 7:30am-5pm for all residents North of Route 6 and West of State St. This is for a valve replacement. A boil order will follow until further notice.

The Henry & Stark County Health Department & First Choice Healthcare Note Children’s Mental Health Week, May 5th-11th

Raeann Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
MAY 3, 2024

The Henry and Stark County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare announces that May 5-11, 2024 has been designated as Children’s Mental Health Week. This nationally recognized observance aims to increase public acceptance, educate communities, and expand the general public’s understanding of children’s mental health needs and its resulting impact on their parents, caregivers, and families across the lifespan. 

     Children’s Mental Health Week allows all of us to celebrate children of any age while promoting the importance of their mental health as well as their need for services and acceptance that support recovery, resilience, and success for children and their families. 

     Consider the following Children & Youth Mental & Behavioral Health Facts: 

·         1 in 6 US youth experience mental illness each year, and only half of them receive treatment.

·         50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24.

·   Among US Adolescents (aged 12-17) – 1 in 6 experienced a major depressive episode in the last year.

·   3 million US Adolescents had serious thoughts of suicide.

·   The average delay between onset of mental illness symptoms and treatment is 11 years.

·   60% of Americans are concerned about the stigma and around mental illness. 

     With limited resources for mental health in our community it is now more important than ever to provide individuals with the behavioral and mental health support they need.  Our own Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Mental Health Therapists, Nurses and supportive staff are pleased to be able to offer this support to our community.  

     There are many reasons an individual may seek treatment.  Our providers are prepared to support patients aged 5 and above who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse and addictions, behavior problems, bipolar disorder, family/parenting issues, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia and other related disorders, sexual assault, suicide prevention, trauma and loss. 

      For more information on Behavioral and Mental Health services or to schedule an appointment simply call First Choice Healthcare in Kewanee at 309-852-5272! Help and understanding are just a phone call away.

Henry & Stark County Health Departments & First Choice Healthcare Note April-Cancer Control Month

Raeann Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
April 5, 2024

RaeAnn Tucker, Health Department Director of Health Promotion, notes “In the battle against cancer, over decades, our Nation has made extraordinary progress.  The overall rates of cancer deaths are decreasing for both women and men, and most survivors live longer and enjoy a better quality of life than ever before.  Still, cancer remains the second most common cause of death in America, and there is more work to do.  This month, we stand with all those touched by cancer and redouble our efforts to prevent, detect, and treat this disease.”

    Tucker adds, "While it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk of cancer, we can take action to reduce our chances of developing this disease. To beat this disease, prevention is the key. Today, scientists think most cancers may be related to lifestyle and environment - what you eat, drink, if you smoke and where you work and play.  So the good news is you can help reduce your own cancer risk by taking control of things in your daily life.” 

    The Health Department and First Choice Healthcare, along with the American Cancer Society, offer the following 10 steps you can take to a healthier life and reduced cancer risk: 

1) If you smoke or chew tobacco, stop!  Smoking is a major cancer risk to smokers and everyone near them.  If you are going to have a baby and you smoke, you pass the smoke and the risk right on to your baby.  The combination of smoking and drinking alcohol is even riskier. 

2) Get Vaccinated. Cancer prevention includes protection from certain viral infections. Talk to your doctor about vaccination against:
· Human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that can lead to cervical and other genital cancers as well as squamous cell cancers of the head and neck. The HPV vaccine is recommended for girls and boys ages 11 and 12. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the use of vaccine Gardasil 9 for males and females ages 9 to 45.

· Hepatitis B. Hepatitis B can increase the risk of developing liver cancer. The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for certain adults at high risk — such as adults who are sexually active but not in a mutually monogamous relationship, people with sexually transmitted infections, people who use intravenous drugs, men who have sex with men, and health care or public safety workers who might be exposed to infected blood or body fluids. 

3) Have regular check-ups. Ask your health care provider about the American Cancer Society's guidelines for early detection screenings. 

4) Maintaining a healthy weight will help you reduce your risk of cancer - as well as heart disease and diabetes.  Watching your portion sizes - especially of foods high in fat and sugar - is an important way to help watch your weight. 

5) Enjoy more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.  Eat at least five servings of colorful fruits and vegetables each day.  They are packed with disease-fighting nutrients, are generally low in fat and calories, and may help you control your weight.  Try to eat at least three servings of whole-grain products each day. 

6) Limit how much saturated fat you eat by cutting back on red meats (beef, pork, and lamb), processed meats (bologna, salami, and hot dogs), and high-fat dairy products. 

7) If you drink alcohol, limit yourself to one drink a day if you are female and two a day if you are male. 

8) Get some physical activity like walking, gardening, or dancing for at least 30 minutes or more on five or more days of the week.  Check with your health care provider before you begin an exercise routine. 

9) Protect your skin from UV rays.  Stay out of the sun as much as you can between 10am and 4pm, when the sun's UV rays are the strongest.  When you are outside, cover up with clothing.  Wear a hat with a brim that shades your face, ears, and neck.  Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher on all skin not covered with clothing.  Wear sunglasses with UV protection.  Don't use sunlamps or tanning salons. 

10) If you work with harmful chemicals or fibers like asbestos, wear protective clothes and follow directions exactly.  Be sure to learn emergency procedures. 

     For information about cancer, contact the American Cancer Society anytime at 1-800-ACS-2345 or www.cancer.org or visit the Health Department's website at www.henrystarkhealth.com or find us on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments or Follow Us on Twitter.

Henry & Stark County Health Departments Kick Off National Public Health Week, April 1-7, 2024 Celebration!

Raeann Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
March 29, 2024

Each year officials at the Henry and Stark County Health Departments have showcased the many services they provide to protect the health of our communities as a part of National Public Health Week.  This year National Public Health Week will take place from April 1-7, 2024.  During National Public Health Week (NPHW) 2024, the public health community is rallying around a theme of “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health.” 

     Duane Stevens, Public Health Administrator of the Henry and Stark County Health Departments notes, “This year’s theme, “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health,” recognizes the contributions of public health initiatives, workers and milestones, and highlights issues that are important to improving both our nation and our local communities. This week also notes that the places where we are, physically, mentally and societally affect our health and our lives.  As we celebrate the 29th NPHW, we want everyone to know they can make their communities healthier and safer for all.  And we’re focusing not just on what we can do as individuals, but what we can do as communities to protect and improve public health.”

     Stevens adds, “Join us in observing NPHW 2024 and become part of a growing movement to create the healthiest nation in one generation.  During the week, we will celebrate the power of prevention, advocate for healthy and fair policies, share strategies for improving both the physical and mental health of our residents, and champion the role of a strong public health system.”

     Stevens concludes, “People often do not realize the full impact of the Health Department’s programs and services.  This Public Health Week please take a moment to remember how the Health Department is continuously striving to create healthier communities. Our staff of 50 full-time employees are dedicated to making a difference in the health of 60,000 area residents each and every day. And though the last three years may have tested and challenged our staff; rest assured our vigilance and resolve never ends.”

     For more information on the programs and services available through the Henry & Stark County Health Departments in Kewanee 309-852-0197 (Main Office); Colona 309-792-4011; or Toulon 309-852-3115 or visit our website at www.henrystarkhealth.com or find us on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments and Follow Us on Twitter and Instagram.

The Staff of the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare gather in front of their Kewanee location and invite all Henry and Stark County residents to join them in celebrating National Public Health Week, April 1-7, 2024. The Health Department is showcasing their many accomplishments in improving our area citizens' health as a part of this year's observance and its theme, “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health.”

Henry & Stark County Health Departments Offer Easter Egg Food Safety Suggestions

Raeann Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
March 27, 2024

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments recognize that many groups, organizations, and families may be planning festivities to celebrate the upcoming Easter holiday.  Those planning Easter egg hunt should be aware that hard-boiled eggs require some special attention.

     In years past, various instances of food borne illnesses have been associated with the consumption of improperly prepared Easter eggs; therefore, we recommend the following guidelines to help insure a safe and enjoyable holiday.

      * Use only fresh, clean, unbroken eggs that have been obtained from a reliable source and kept refrigerated. 

      * Eggs should be prepared by healthy persons who observe good hygienic practices such as frequent hand washing and proper cleaning of cooking utensils.

      * Eggs should not be allowed to cool in standing water.  They should be placed into the refrigerator immediately after cooking.

      * Hard-boiled eggs must remain refrigerated after preparation and coloring, and used within seven days.

      * It's safe to keep the eggs outside for an hour or two during an Easter egg hunt, but any eggs that are not consumed right away must be returned to the refrigerator.  Also, hide eggs so they stay clear of pets, dirt and other sources of bacteria.  To be extra cautious, cook two sets of eggs: one for hiding and decorating with, and another for eating.

     * Remember, hard-boiled eggs-in the shell or peeled-do not keep as well as raw eggs, so discard any leftover eggs after one week.

     Whether preparing, serving, hunting or decorating with eggs, it's easy for everyone to have a splendid Easter celebration while still staying safe from any "food borne unpleasantness."

Henry & Stark County Health Departments & First Choice Healthcare Note Diabetes Alert Day, March 26

Raeann Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
March 22, 2024

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare note that March 26th has been designated as Diabetes Alert Day. Nearly 26 million children and adults have diabetes and an additional 79 million are at-risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes.  Obviously, this disease is taking a devastating physical, emotional and financial toll on our country.  Yet, most Americans don't consider diabetes a serious matter.  They feel it is someone else's responsibility; someone else's problem. 

     The Health Department and First Choice Healthcare, along with the American Diabetes Association (ADA), wants to raise awareness about the importance of knowing the risk factors and symptoms associated with diabetes; as well as, its serious and life-threatening complications such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease and amputation. 

     Diabetes is dangerous because high blood sugar isn't usually something you can feel.  Many people have no outward type 2 diabetes symptoms at all and can go years without being diagnosed.  That's why it's important to be aware of the type 2 diabetes symptoms and risk factors for diabetes.  Get screened by a health care provider if you have the following type 2 diabetes symptoms: 

* Being unusually thirsty

* Having to urinate often

* Feeling hungry all the time

* Losing weight (without trying)

* Having blurry vision

* Feeling very tired

* Frequent infections

* Cuts and sores that heal slowly 

     If you are over age 45, talk with your health care provider about being tested for diabetes, especially if you are overweight or have family members with the condition.  Regardless of your age, if you are overweight and have one or more of the other risk factors listed, the ADA suggests that you be tested for diabetes now. 

      First Choice Healthcare reminds area residents that our Family Nurse Practitioners in Kewanee, Colona and Toulon can help with the management of non-insulin dependent diabetes management; high blood pressure and high cholesterol. If you don't know your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol numbers; we have services that can help you see where you stand. And for diagnosed diabetics, First Choice Healthcare notes they have low-cost lab services available with a doctor’s order. Testing is available through their clinic offices in Kewanee (309) 852-5272, Colona (309) 792-4011 and Toulon (309) 852-3115. 

The Henry & Stark County Health Department Notes March-National Nutrition Month & Reminds Residents of the WIC Supplemental Food Program

RaeAnn Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
Date: March 1, 2024       

The Henry and Stark County Health Department WIC (Women, Infants and Children) Food Supplemental program staff note that March has been designated National Nutrition Month.  Therefore, it’s a great time to remind local residents that the WIC program promotes the health of our local children and mothers, by providing free groceries to participants; and creating healthier families by encouraging healthy eating and lifestyles. 

      Heather Aldred, RN, Maternal and Child Health Services Supervisor with the Health Department, states, “Henry, Stark, Marshall and Putnam County residents have fully returned to only in-person “Face to Face” appointments and services delivery.  We do, however, still offer an online application feature to the program.  We are thrilled to once again have the chance to offer these important and vital family services directly to our participants.  In addition, we remind those who may be interested in taking advantage of all that WIC offers, that the New Illinois WIC EBT Card is available to all WIC participants!  This makes WIC Services even more easy for area families to use.” 

     Aldred adds, “All current WIC participants and households are now issued just one Illinois WIC EBT Card with all the food benefits on this one card; no more handling multiple checks for different members of your family. The WIC process remains the same, benefits are reloaded on your card every three months after contacting and checking in with our WIC Staff.” 

     Please note, the Health Department WIC staff have expanded WIC hours in order to be more convenient to working families and school children participating in the program. WIC benefits area available to eligible children up to the age of 5, pregnant women, infants, postpartum and breastfeeding women. 

     Aldred adds, “We are so excited about this new WIC EBT Card, sometimes referred to as eWIC.  Participants now have the ease of taking their shopping list to the store and then buying the food they need when they need them.”  

    The Health Department WIC and Casemanagement staff promotes healthy pregnancies, babies, children and families through their services. The WIC Supplemental Food Program offers supplemental foods and nutrition education to residents who meet certain nutrition and economic guidelines.  In addition, clients may receive healthy food items such as milk, formula, eggs, and cereal; fruits, vegetables, juices, whole grain breads and tortillas. 

    For more information on the Department's WIC and Casemanagement services call the Department at (309) 852-5272 (Kewanee) or 792-4011(Colona) or visit our website to apply at https://www.henrystarkhealth.com/FormCenter/WIC-10/WIC-Application-Form-65

For more information you can also visit www.fns.usda.gov/wic.  This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

 

The 2024 Henry County Fair Pageant will be held on Tuesday, June 18 at the Henry County Fairgrounds.

Entry forms for the pageant will be available on Friday, March 1 beginning at 8:00 a.m.  

Contestants must live in or attend school in Henry County (or attended a Henry County high school if currently in college). The age divisions for each group are as follows:

• Little Miss, 5 - 7 on pageant day 

• Jr. Miss, 12 - 14 on pageant day 

• Miss, 16 - 21 on January 1, 2025  

The entry forms will be available on the Henry County Fair Queen Pageant Facebook page and Instagram account, or can be emailed or texted directly if requested. For questions or additional information, please reach out to Pageant Director Kelli Patton, at henrycopageant@gmail.com or (309) 944-7743. 

Henry County Emergency Food and Shelter (EFS) Awarded Funds

Henry County Emergency Food and Shelter (EFS) Board has been awarded funds for Phase 41 under the National Board Program.

The selection was made by a National Board chaired by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and consists of representatives from the Salvation Army; American Red Cross; United Jewish Communities; Catholic Charities, USA; National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA; and the United Way of America. The decision of the Board was made from statistical information compiled by the State of Illinois and the Federal Government. The Henry County EFS Board consists of volunteers from throughout the County.

Under the terms of the grant, local Henry County Agencies chosen to receive funds must: 1) be private non-profits or units of government, 2) have an accounting system, 3) practice nondiscrimination, 4) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter, and 5) if they are a private voluntary organization, they must have a voluntary board. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply.

Henry County EFS has distributed Emergency Food and Shelter funds since the program began. The recipient Agencies have taken immediate care of more people than can be imagined. Presently four agencies received funds last year: Colona Township Pantry, Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry, Salvation Army, and Orion Area Food Pantry. There are other Certified Agencies in Henry County who did not request funds.

Public or private voluntary agencies, which meet the five requirements listed above, and are interested in applying for EFS funds should contact Karen Doy by telephone at 309-721-1592. The deadline for requests is March 1, 2024.