Celebrate Local

The Western Illinois Museum and the Macomb Food Co-op celebrate all things local. On Friday, January 5, 2018, from 6:30 to 9:30 pm, the museum will open its doors for an evening of good food and drink, lively music, and compelling history. There is a suggested $5 donation at the door.

Celebrate Local will feature five musical acts offering a broad selection of musical styles, and each playing for 30 minutes. The evening begins at 6:30 with the alternative rock group, Topical! which includes Roman Hamm, Ally Merrett, and Zach Zahnle. These young musician found their shared interest while playing in the Macomb’s school band. At 7:05, Markius Anthony, who plays alto sax with WIU’s Jazz Studio, will be joined by his trio to bring a smooth jazz set to the program. Guitarist Bill Maakestad and longtime advocate for live local music will be joined by special guest Lysa Fox, WIU’s musical theater assistant professor, at 7:40. They will be accompanied by fiddler Randy Smith and bass player, Aaron Krings, to present country favorites by Hank Williams and Patsy Cline. Following a brief intermission vocalist Kitty Karn and pianist Michael Stryker will take the stage at 8:25. Both are accomplished musicians, and WIU associate professors, who actively share their many talents with the community. At 9:00, the evening concludes with the spell-binding guitar playing and expressive vocals of Josh Keck.

The event celebrates the growth of the Macomb Food Co-op in 2017 including the addition of Grab & Go food, several new local producers, and a multitude of new products. Their 211 South McArthur Street location has become an important hub connecting local producers with the community. The Co-op is a place where both owners and the general public can find the best selection of chemical and antibiotic free, sustainably harvested and humanely grown food. During the event, food that is available from the Co-op and local producers will be served, and members of the Co-op will provide information about the organization and share their goals for 2018.

This event marks the closing of the exhibit, As Advertised: A History of Local Advertising. The Western Illinois Museum celebrates local history and the belief that knowing the past will inform the decisions we make for our future. The museum works passionately to collect area’s treasures and discover their significance. In 2017 over 2,800 visitors enjoyed the museum’s exhibits and programs.

This New Year’s celebration will provide support for two local organizations and, with an impressive line-up of entertainment and local producers, promises to be the highlight of the holiday season. Refreshments will be a selection of items available at the Macomb Food Co-op including salsas and cheeses. Cash bar (Beer, wine and soft drinks) will be provided by Hy~Vee Catering.

For more information please contact the Western Illinois Museum at 309.837.2750 or the Macomb Food Co-op at 309.255.5572. Visit their web sites to learn more about the organizations or to become a member: http://wimuseum.org or http://macombfoodcoop.net.