News
VILLAGE MATTERS: February 2024
For Black History Month, Farley's will screen "One Night in Miami" on Feb. 20 at 7:30 pm, directed by Regina King. The film imagines a discussion on advancing civil rights among Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Jim Brown, and Sam Cooke, followed by a group conversation. Also, a surprise 70th birthday party for Gary Davis was held at Farley's on Jan. 27, with family and neighbors. Lastly, the "Escape to Elsah" newsletter seeks a new writer starting April 1, as Cecily Lee steps down. This volunteer role involves creating community news content.
Spotlight: Elsah Winter Birds
In Elsah, the elusive Pileated Woodpecker, larger than a crow, is known for its distinct call and red cap, inhabiting areas like Mill Street and Elsah Hills. They require large territories of 100+ acres. The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, another local bird, feeds by drilling holes in trees to drink sap and eat insects. The small, tuxedo-clad Juncos, or "snowbirds," visit in winter and migrate north for summer. The common White-throated Sparrow, with its distinctive song and appearance, is also a winter visitor in Elsah, found near forest edges and parks.
Village Government
The Village of Elsah is hiring a part-time maintenance worker for light building and groundskeeping, offering $19.03/hr for about 20 hours weekly. Residents can attend the budget hearings on Feb. 21 and April 9 to discuss the FY 2024-25 budget. Contact information for village matters and details on public meetings, including Zoning Board and Trustees meetings, are provided.
Happy Home for the Holidays, everyone! – Saturday Dec. 2
The Elsah Home for the Holidays House Tour on December 2, 1-5 p.m., features eight private homes and public buildings, with local pianists, carolers, a brass quartet, and holiday treats, available at www.historicelsah.org/tickets. Residents are reminded to display traditional Elsah-style holiday decorations by December 2.
“1857 Elsah home has been lovingly cared for through the years”
The St. Louis Post Dispatch featured an article on November 13 about the historic 1857 "Parsonage" in Elsah, cared for by Steve and Cindi Hall, complete with a digital version showcasing interior photos and a video of the couple discussing their home and community.
Eat out with Treehouse to save wildlife – December 3
Join the Treehouse Wildlife Center for an all-you-can-eat chicken dinner fundraiser on December 3rd, 11 am - 3 pm, at Edwardsville Moose Lodge, featuring raffles, door prizes, and a dessert table, with tickets available online or at their gift shop.
Joint Christmas sing – Sunday, December 10, 2:30 pm
This year's joint Christmas celebration by the local churches, featuring carols, music, and Sunday School participation, starts at the Christian Science church at 2:30 pm, moves to the Methodist church, and concludes with refreshments at Farley’s, organized by Pastor Alan and Mary Bevans.
2024 Photo Competition – Last day to submit: January 6
The Village of Elsah Museum invites local photographers to contribute to a visual record of village life, focusing on "Historical Abstractions" and "Native Species," with details available at EscapetoElsah.com.
Elsah Book Group
The book group will discuss "No Ordinary Assignment" by Jane Ferguson on January 11, exploring her experiences as a journalist in challenging environments.
Village Matters
Last month, Elsah residents Donna DeWeese and Dr. Jeffrey Cornelius were married at Farley’s, and the community welcomes new neighbors Beth and Patrick Blechle, with Abigail DeWeese and Samuel Keller announcing their engagement.