The Violence Prevention Center of Southwestern IL has asked us, along with local Girl Scout Troop 616 to tie purple ribbons on the lamppost on Main Street to raise awareness to October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

I would like to kick off this morning and this week with a huge thank you to those that helped with a shift or two (or more) at this weekends Songs for Soldiers event. What an incredible job everyone did and what great cooperation from Troop 357. I am amazed at the reaction and comments from the general public about each and every one of you. I was saddened when I was approached by someone with a similar event benefitting a veterans home who was unable to get the assistance needed by the local Scouts, my sadness was quickly replaced with pride in our Troop and each of you. A special Thank You to Aiden Maul and Steven Schaeffer who were both there every minute of the event.

THIS COMING FRIDAY AND SATURDAY IS THE SONGS FOR SOLDIERS EVENT. AS WE DO EVERY YEAR WE SUPPORT THIS GREAT CAUSE WITH TRASH CLEAN UP AS WELL AS RECYCLING AND MOST IMPORTANTLY CARRYING THE FLAGS ON STAGE DURING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM.

I will have little smokies made by the Troop available at Monday night's
The cost is $10.00 per pound. Those that bought last week at $8 got the bargin as a result of my miscalculation. We have about 75 pounds available.

We are taking pre orders for summer sausage this year so that we make the right amount. The full stick will be around $12 per stick. or $13 for one with cheese. We will also be making alot of smokies. It would be nice to know if you are interested in smokies as well.

After much discussion it has been decided to cancel the overnight hike and campout this weekend due to the overnight weather conditions and safety concerns. We will however replace it with a hike on the Katy Trail. This is a 8.2 mile hike and the link is attached.