Due to an error, the West Peoria News column was inadvertently duplicated under Heights News by Roger Larson in the October issue. Please go to our online edition at www.thecommunityword.com or go directly to http://thecommunityword.com/online/blog/2015/09/30/heights-news/ to read the October Heights News online.
Thank you for reading our inaugural article in October. Richwoods Township and Peoria Heights provide the services, the programs and engage in partnerships to provide the experience which makes us “eventful.” Each of the following comments about our “Partners” make us that “eventful” community.
The Peoria Heights Chamber of Commerce is gearing-up to provide an eventful holiday experience. Opportunities such as Small Business Saturday in November and of course, the holiday sounds and flavors including strolling carolers and chocolate sampling invite individuals to experience that which makes Peoria Heights businesses “eventful.” For further information regarding the Peoria Heights Chamber of Commerce, you may go to their Facebook page or www.peoriaheightschamber.com.
The Peoria Heights Public Library continues to be “eventful” as it considers the needs of the Community and developing programs based on those needs. Two upcoming programs include a free showing of the movie “Spare Parts” at 2 p.m. Nov. 11. This movie is based on a true story of the success of high school students desiring to compete in a national robotics championship. Another upcoming is Holiday Gourd Workshop 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Nov. 17. You may direct your questions to the Peoria Heights Public Library by calling 309-682-5578, going to their website www.Peoriaheightslibrary.com or to their Facebook page.
The Village of Peoria Heights also has recognized the value of Partnership and strives to be “eventful.” They are committed to the youth of Peoria Heights and Richwoods Township as evidenced in their donation of $600 to the Richwoods Township/Peoria Heights High School Leadership Academy. For further information on the direction of the Village of Peoria Heights, you may go to www.peoriaheights.org.
Richwoods Township has the privilege of engaging with community leaders, determining needs and then, developing programs to address those needs. One such need is to address those who do not have an adequate food supply. Consequently, partnerships were forged and have been maintained with the food pantries at the Peoria Heights Congregational Church and St. Thomas Catholic Church. This year, Richwoods Township has committed $4,500 to assist these two organizations address needs of the community.
Having recognized the need for a program that addresses the need for education and experience in S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), Richwoods Township has forged yet other “eventful” partnerships with Pearl Technologies, Illinois Central College, University of Illinois Extension and the Village of Peoria Heights to develop a S.T.E.M. Academy for middle-school students. This program is in its infancy of development. Details will be provided in the near future. For further information on the value and impact of Richwoods Township, you may go to the Township website at www.to.org/richwoodstownship.