Effingham's News and Sports Leader, 979XFM and KJ Country 102.3

Artist Johanna Stice Works on Display
2026-06-03
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The work of local artist Johanna Stice is on display, now through Saturday, June 27 in the art gallery at the Suzette Brumleve Memorial Effingham Public Library.
Stice, a native of Effingham raised in Teutopolis, has been creating art for as long as she can remember. Her artistic journey began at the age of 5, when she took her first art class and painted a piece she titled “Daisies in a Yellow Jar.” It was at that moment that Stice discovered a lifelong passion for painting.
She draws inspiration from a range of sources, finding creative influence in the world around her. She is inspired by various forms of art and the work of other artists. Her pieces often reflect her personal interests and passions, with subjects ranging from beloved cultural icons such as the Muppets to music and nature, including birds.
For Stice, art is more than a creative outlet — it is a fundamental part of the human experience. She believes that everyone engages in art in some form, whether they realize it or not. Through singing, dancing, drawing, storytelling and music, people connect with each other across generations. In this way, art serves as a bridge between the present and the past, linking us to those who lived thousands of years ago.
The art exhibit is free and a library card is not required to view the exhibit.
Contact Art Gallery Coordinator Oran Colwell at 217-342-2464 or oran@effinghamlibrary.org for more information.

Wednesday's Schedule
2026-06-03
PrintHIGH SCHOOL
Baseball
Class 1A Altamont Sectional
Game 1 — North Clay vs. Bethany Okaw Valley, 2 p.m. LISTEN ON KJ COUNTRY 102.3
Game 2– Arthur-Lovington/Atwood-Hammond vs. Cumberland, 4:30 p.m. LISTEN ON KJ COUNTRY 102.3
Class 2A Greenville Sectional
Game 1 — Effingham St. Anthony vs. Breese Central, 2 p.m. LISTEN ON 979XFM
Game 2 — Freeburg vs. Effingham, 4:30 p.m. LISTEN ON 979XFM
EFFINGHAM PARK DISTRICT
Tomorrow’s Stars Khoury League
At Mike Sehy Field
Game 1 — Elk’s Lodge 1016 vs. Russ Braunecker Cadillac, GMC, 5:30 p.m.
Game 2 — Dan Hecht Chevrolet vs. Taylor Law, 7 p.m.
Prep Baseball League
At Evergreen Baseball Diamond
Game 1 — Effingham Asphalt vs. Brown’s Drug Store, 5:30 p.m.
Game 2 — Culver’s vs. Country Financial, Meinhart/Donsbach, 7:30 p.m.
Junior Softball League
At West Softball Diamond
Game 1 — Tri-Power Towing vs. Dieterich Bank, 6:30 p.m.
Game 2 — Whitetails Unlimited vs. NAPA Auto Parts, 7:15 p.m.
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
Athletics at Chicago Cubs, 7:05 p.m.
Texas at St. Louis Cardinals. 6:45 p.m.

Illinois Creole Program
2026-06-03
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Red Cross Blood Drives in June
2026-06-04
PrintAmerican Red Cross Blood Drives in June:
6/1, Monday, Effingham Event Center, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
6/1, Monday, Clay Electric Cooperative, Flora, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

6/2, Tuesday, Greenup Village Municipal Building, 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM

6/4, Thursday, Newton Knights of Columbus, 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM

6/9, Tuesday, Mason Christian Church Annex, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM

6/11, Thursday, Flora Church of the Nazarene, Noon – 5:00 PM

6/15, Monday, St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Sainte Marie, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM

6/16, Tuesday, Dieterich Community Civic Center, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
6/16, Tuesday, Grace United Methodist Church in Neoga, 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM

6/19, Friday, Illinois State Police Troop 9 in Effingham, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
6/19, Friday, Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Shelbyville, Noon – 5:00 PM

6/22, Monday, Oblong Municipal Building, 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM

6/25, Thursday, Neal Center YMCA in Toledo, 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Make summer shine for patients in need. Come to give blood June 1-28 for a $15 e-gift card!
To make an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or download the Red Cross Donor App.

Thursday's Schedule
2026-06-04
PrintHIGH SCHOOL
Softball
Class 1A State Tournament
At Peoria Louisville Slugger Sports Complex
Game 1 – Dakota vs. Okawville 10 a.m.
Game 2 – Gardner-S Wilmington vs. Waltonville 12:15 p.m.

Class 2A State Tournament
At Peoria Louisville Slugger Sports Complex
Game 1 — Seneca vs. IC Catholic 2:30 p.m.
Game 2 – Carterville vs. Williamsville 4:45 p.m.
EFFINGHAM PARK DISTRICT
Minor Softball League
At East Softball Diamond
Game 1 — REMAX vs. Bahrn’s Equipment, 5:30 p.m.
Game 2– Arrow Pest Control vs. New Heights Crane Service, 7 p.m.
Tomorrow’s Stars Khoury League
At Mike Sehy Field
Game 1 — Kiwanis Club vs. Effingham Noon Rotary, 5:30 p.m.
Game 2 — Heritage Builders vs. NorthsideFord, 7 p.m.
Little League
At Dave McDevitt Field
game 1 — Schumacher Orthodontics vs. Tingley Insurance, 5:30 p.m.
Game 2 — Kemper CPA vs. Arab Pest Control, 7:15 p.m.
Prep Baseball League
At Evergreen Baseball Diamond
Game 1 — Mid-Illinois Concrete vs. Brown’s Drug Store, 5:30 pm.
Game 2 — Holiday Inn & Express Suites vs. Country Financial, Meinhart/Donsbach, 7:30 p.m.
Small Fry League
At Gene A. Niccum Field
Game 1 — No. 11 Maroon vs. No. 12 Island Yellow, 5:30 p.m.
Game 2 — No. 9 Kelly Green vs. No. 10 Ash, 6:30 p.m.
At Small Fry Diamond
Game 1 — No. 7 Military Green vs. No. 8 Vintage Blue, 6 p.m.
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
Athletics at Chicago Cubs, 7:05 p.m.

Board on a Thursday and Adulting 101: Career Readiness
2026-06-04

Sounds of Summer - Friends of Olney
2026-06-04

4-H Camp Cloverbud
2026-06-05
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This camp is free and open to all youth! They do not have to be in 4-H to attend.

Sigel Town-Wide Garage Sales
2026-06-05, 2026-06-06

4B's Rodeo - Bands, Boots, Barrels, & Bulls
2026-06-05, 2026-06-06

ILICA Trap Shoot and Golf Outing
2026-06-05
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The Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association (ILICA) is pleased to announce the upcoming Area 6 Trap Shoot & Golf Outing, taking place on June 5, in Lerna and Mattoon. This annual event brings together contractors, associates, and landowners for a full day of camaraderie, friendly competition, and outdoor fun.
The day begins with a 50‑clay trap shoot at McKillip Farm in Lerna, followed by lunch at Meadowview Golf Course in Mattoon. At 1 PM, participants will head out for the 18‑hole golf outing, featuring door prizes, cash hole prizes, and a 50/50 raffle. After the final putt drops, attendees will gather at the clubhouse for award announcements and a steak dinner.
Full registration is only $110, which includes a trap shoot, lunch, golf, and dinner. Partial registration options are also available. Individuals and 4‑somes are welcome, and ILICA membership is not required to participate.
For more information and to register, please visit illica.net/events or call Illinois LICA at 309-932-1230.
Illinois LICA is a not-for-profit trade association dedicated to the professional conservation of soil & water resources. For over 65 years, ILICA has been providing contractors construction & conservation education, business & legislative resources, and industry discounts.

Prairie Skies – Planetarium Star Shows
2026-06-05
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Join in the fun and exploration every Friday at 7:00pm, for a tour of our night sky.
This is a live‑narrated tour of the wonders of the sky, accompanied by some of the legendary stories of the ancient sky. Find out what constellations and planets are visible and how to find them.
This show is updated seasonally and is intended for all ages.

Friday's Schedule
2026-06-05
PrintHIGH SCHOOL
Bass Fishing
The State Bass Fishing Tournament at Lake Shelbyville.
Teutopolis (launch ninth)
Head Coach: Lee Buehnerkemper
Driver: Lance Dasenbrock
Brady Bloemer (Jr.)
Will Bloemer (Fr.)
Effingham St. Anthony (launch 38th)
Head Coach: Kevin Overbeck
Driver: Kevin Overbeck
Keegan Overbeck (Jr.)
Addison Overbeck (So.)
Newton (launch 42nd)
Head Coach: Chris Bradley
Driver: John Bennett
Jack James (So.)
Beau Bennett (So.)

Softball
Class 1A State Tournament
At Peoria Louisville Slugger Sports Complex
Okawville vs. Gardner South Wilmington 10:15 a.m. (third place)
Class 2A State Tournament
IC Catholic vs. Williamsville 12:30 p.m. (third place)
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
San Francisco at Chicago Cubs, 1:20 p.m.
Cincinnati at St. Louis Cardinals. 7:15 p.m. p.m.

Watson City-Wide Garage Sales
2026-06-05
PrintWatson will be having City-Wide Garage Sales on Friday and Saturday, June 5th and 6th.

Miss Edgewood Fest Queen Pageant Rules Meeting
2026-06-05
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THE CROWN HAS ARRIVED… NOW WE NEED A QUEEN!
The Miss Edgewood Fest Queen Pageant Rules Meeting is Friday, June 5th, at 6:00 PM
If you are interested in participating in the Miss Edgewood Fest Queen Pageant, you MUST attend the Rules Meeting! This is your opportunity to learn everything about the pageant, ask questions, and officially begin your journey toward becoming the next Miss Edgewood Fest Queen!
Winner Receives:
A Beautiful Crown
Official Queen Sash
Scholarship Award
The Honor of Representing Edgewood Fest during our Historic 50th Anniversary Celebration
This isn’t just another pageant. This is your chance to be part of Edgewood history as we celebrate 50 years of Edgewood Fest and America’s 250th Birthday!
Imagine hearing your name called…
Imagine wearing the crown…
Imagine representing your hometown at one of the biggest celebrations in our community’s history!
Let’s make history together! Don’t sit on the sidelines wondering “what if?”
Take the chance.
Believe in yourself.
Sign up today!

ROCK For KIDS at Lake Sara
2026-06-06
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Crisis Nursery of Effingham County, in partnership with HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital, is proud to announce the return of its annual Rock for Kids benefit concert, sponsored by Poss Music Works. The event will take place on Saturday, June 6, at The Stage at Lake Sara, from 2:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
This high-energy community event will showcase local youth musicians, featuring 13 bands and performers ranging in age from 10 to their early 20s. Attendees are encouraged to come out and support their favorite artists throughout the day.
Admission includes a wristband that allows guests to come and go, making it easy for families to fit the event into a busy summer schedule while still catching the performances they’re most excited to see.
Performance Lineup:

2:00 p.m. — Jancin Cronkhite
2:45 p.m. — Ripley Peterson
3:25 p.m. — Shovel the Pumpkins
3:40 p.m. — Isaac Biver
4:20 p.m. — Jude Metzelaars
4:50 p.m. — Evan Williamson
5:05 p.m. — Blue Poss
5:55 p.m. — Jake Bushur
6:10 p.m. — The Mutineers
7:00 p.m. — Dylan Reed
7:15 p.m. — The Hip Huggers
8:05 p.m. — Ben Esker
8:20 p.m. — Max Heuerman and the Little Truckers

In addition to live music, attendees can enjoy family-friendly activities including balloon art, face painting, creative art experiences, and food from The Floating Goat. HSHS will provide a First Aid tent.
Crisis Nursery extends special thanks to Bill Passalacqua and Poss Music Works, Scott Greenwood of Greenwood Carpentry Services, and Marty Williamson for their continued dedication to showcasing local youth talent and making this event possible.
For updates and tickets, follow the Facebook event page “Rock for Kids” or visit: https://bit.ly/4t9UOKZ
To contact the Crisis Nursery of Effingham County, email director@crisisnurseryofeffingham.com or call 217-342-3000×2.

Cancer Can Kiss My Jeep Run!
2026-06-06

Rummage Sale at St. Paul Lutheran Church
2026-06-06
PrintSt. Paul Lutheran Church will hold a free-will donation Rummage Sale on Saturday, June 6, from 7:00 a.m. to noon.
The sale will be in the Fellowship Hall of the Church, located three miles north of Dieterich.
All proceeds go to assist area residents in need, in the spirit of Christ Jesus.

Jeepin' For The Paws
2026-06-06
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All vehicles welcome! Family friendly!
A fun drive to win prizes and raise funds for homeless animals in need of families.
– We’ll start at Tuscan Hills Winery – Registration, t-shirts, & tickets for 1st-stop of raffle baskets.
– Then we’re off to Danny’s Bar – find out if you won a basket, and buy tickets for 2nd-stop raffle baskets!
– Next, on to Luke’s in Altamont. They’ll be waiting for us with $10 pulled pork sandwiches & fries. Find out if you won a basket, and buy tickets for 3rd stop raffle baskets!
– Barn & Bottle Winery will welcome us next. Find out if you won a basket, and buy tickets for 4th stop raffle baskets! 50/50 Drawing will be held here.
– Last stop of the day is at The Nest Cardinal Golf Course! Find out if you won a basket, and get in your last minute bids in the Online Auction!
ONLINE AUCTION: Great items & experiences this year!

Effingham Farmer's Market
2026-06-06
PrintThe Effingham Farmer’s Market will be every Saturday, from May 30th through October 31st. The Market will be open from 8:00 – Noon on the old courthouse lawn.
There will be fresh produce, baked goods, plants, and flowers, as well as arts and crafts.

Races for all Paces
2026-06-06
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Register before May 16 for the free t-shirt!

Saturday's Schedule
2026-06-06
PrintHIGH SCHOOL
Baseball
1A Altamont Sectional Championship
North Clay vs. Cumberland 11 a.m. Listen on KJ Country 102.3

2A Greenville Sectional Championship
St. Anthony vs. Freeburg 11 a.m. Listen on 97.9 XFM

Softball
Class 1A State Tournament
At Peoria Louisville Slugger Sports Complex
Waltonville vs. Dakota 10 a.m. (championship)
Class 2A State Tournament
Seneca vs. Carterville 12:15 p.m. (championship)
EFFINGHAM PARK DISTRICT
Teeball League
At East Softball Diamond
Game 1 — No. 2 Ash vs. No. 12 Maroon, 8 a.m.
Game 2 — Scuba Blue vs. No. 11 Purp0le, 9 a.m.
At West Softball Diamond
Game 1 — No. 3 Cardinal Red vs. No. 13 Navy Blue, 8 a.m.
Game 2 — No. 4 Columbia Blue vs. No. 14 Island Yellow, 9 a.m.
At Gene A. Niccum Field
Game 1 — No. 5 Forest Green vs. No. 15 Royal Blue, 8 a.m.
Game 2 — No. 7 Burnt Orange vs. No. 17 Black Heather, 9 a.m.
Game 3 –No. 6 Gold vs. No. 16 Neo Green, 10 a.m.
At Small Fry Diamond
Game 1 — No. 8 Jade vs. No. 18 Athletic Heather, 8 a.m.
Game 2 — No. 10 Vintage Blue vs. No. 20 Cool Mint, 9 a.m.
Game 3 — No. 9 Kelly Green vs. No. 19 Military Green, 10 a.m.
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
San Francisco at Chicago Cubs, 1:20 p.m.
Cincinnati at St. Louis Cardinals. 1:15 p.m.

Free-Will Donation Rummage Sale
2026-06-06

Music and Food at Mason
2026-06-06

Dieterich Town-Wide Garage Sales
2026-06-06
PrintThe Village of Dieterich will be having their town-wide garage sales on Saturday, June 6th, from 7:00 am – Noon.
Printed maps will be available at Dieterich Bank or you can check the village Facebook page.

Teutopolis Monastery Museum
2026-06-07
PrintThe 38 small rooms of displays at the Teutopolis Monastery Museum will be open to visitors on Sunday, June 7. The hours are from 12:30 to 4:00 p.m. It is recommended that you come early to see the many unique and interesting articles on display.
Admission for adults is $5.00 and $1.00 for children.
The Museum is located on the second floor in the former Franciscan Novitiate building, which is located behind St. Francis Church in Teutopolis. An elevator is available for visitors who have difficulty with stairs.
Besides its collection of articles used by the Franciscan Friars, the Museum is also known for Bibles and books in different languages, some from the 1700’s. The “pioneer wing” features items used by early Teutopolis pioneers, including furniture, clocks, quilts, toys, and various household and grocery store items. These articles are on display in the former “cells” or bedrooms of the Novices. Volunteers are available along the tour to explain the displays and assist visitors.
Also open to visitors are the basement where many small farm tools are displayed, the Mausoleum where 79 Franciscan Friars are interred, and St. Francis Church, with stained glass windows depicting events in the life of St. Francis of Assisi.
Special group tours for adults or school groups can be arranged on days other than the scheduled Sunday openings. Call 217-961-6404 ext. 236, leave a message, and the call will be returned. Regular, scheduled museum opening dates are the first Sunday of the months of April through November, except holidays.
For more information go to the parish website: stfrancischurch.com or to the town’s website at www.Teutopolis.com and click on “Our Community”. Follow on Facebook this year as the beginnings of the Museum in 1975-76 are recalled.

Sunday's Schedule
2026-06-07
PrintMAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
San Francisco at Chicago Cubs, 7:20 p.m.
Cincinnati at St. Louis Cardinals. 1:15 p.m.
NASCAR
FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway, 1 p.m.
World Wide Technology at WWT Raceway, 7:30 p.m.

Blessing of the Fleet
2026-06-07
