Centralia Chamber Golf Plae Dae at Colonial Golf Course
The Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce welcomes you to attend the Golf Plae Dae at Colonial Golf Course!
Sponsored by Best Western Plus Hotel & Suites, Scooters Coffee, Subway Restaurants, Bradford National Bank, Intermountain Electronics (IE), Kaskaskia College, and SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital.
Friday, May 1, 2026
10:30am - Check-in
11:00am - Shotgun Start
$2,000 VIP Sponsor - VIP team recognition and VIP logo placement!
$1,000 Event Sponsor - Be a sponsor for lunch, drinks, winners circle, or prizes! Team included! (Logo on marketing materials and at the event.)
$500 4-Person Team - Includes everything: 18 holes with cart, lunch, soft drinks, beer, and free entries in all contests. (One contest or game at each hole.)
$250 Contest Sponsor - Set up a tent and add to the friendly competition throughout the day with a putting contest, chipping contest, or fun activity!
$150 Hole Sponsor - We’ll feature your logo on a sign at a tee box!
Register your sponsorship or team with the Centralia Chamber of Commerce:
618.532.6789 or office@centraliachamber.com
REGISTER ONLINE: https://forms.gle/7Jcttf3ZbUxgueZt7
In-kind donations always welcome! Donate giveaways, coupons, gift cards, snacks, or other branded items for the goody bags to be given to each golfer (144 max)!
RAIL May Market
Save the Date!! RAIL’s May Market is Saturday, May 2, from 9:00am-1:00pm
Vendors reach out if you’re interested in securing your spot ( $50 per space/ table & chairs included)
—limited spaces—
RAIL Coffee Room will be filled with your favorite local makers, sweet spring finds, handmade treasures, and all the goodies you didn’t know you needed until you see them styled up and calling your name.
Grab a bite to eat and some coffee while you shop.
Locust Street Historical Fair
The annual Locust Street Historical Fair takes place on Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 10:00am - 2:00pm!
This event features:
Classic Car Show
Antique Power Days
Crafters
Food Vendors
Children’s Activity Area
Live Music at Kretzers
Caden Wilson & Kentucky Music Mafia LIVE at Kretzer’s Grill & Bar. Saturday, May 2, From 8:30pm-12:30am.
Colden Brewery Open Mic
Open Mic Night at Colden Brewery is hosted by Broken Circle. Wednesday, May 6, from 6:30pm-10:30pm
SAFE’s Purses with a Purpose in Effingham
You’re cordially invited to attend Safe’s Purses With A Purpose!
Join us on May 7th, 2026 at Tuscan Hills Winery, in Effingham, for a fun and meaningful evening supporting survivors in our community.
10 Rounds of Designer Handbag Bingo
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
Bingo Begins: 7:00 PM
Enjoy an exciting night of bingo while playing for beautiful designer handbags—all while supporting Safe’s mission to provide free and confidential advocacy, counseling, and prevention education services to survivors of sexual violence.
Every ticket helps ensure these critical services remain accessible to those who need them most.
Live Music at Locust Street Pub
Straight out of Nashville, TN Shawn Mayer is coming back to Centralia, IL !!!
LIVE AT:
"Locust St. Pub"
(824 S. Locust St., Centralia, IL)
FRIDAY, MAY 8 | 9PM–12AM
With her soulful voice and rock-meets-country sound, Shawn brings the energy and unforgettable hits—joined by special guest Tracy Ingersoll on drums!
Don’t miss this powerhouse performance!
www.shawnmayer.com
FB: @ShawnMayerMusic | IG: @ShawnMayer | TikTok: @shawnmayermusic
Mother's Day at Colden Brewery
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Colden Brewery with Mimosa’s & Music!
From 4:00pm - 7:00pm on Sunday, May 10, go by and enjoy live music from Bob Masters
Free ‘Power of Attorney’ Clinic at United Way of South Central Illinois
On Tuesday, May 12 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., we will be hosting a Free Power of Attorney Clinic at our office (716 Main Street in Mt. Vernon). We are very grateful to have the Second Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee coming in to provide this service.
This clinic gives individuals the opportunity to sit down with an attorney and complete Power of Attorney for Health Care and Power of Attorney for Property documents—important protections that are often delayed due to cost or lack of access to legal services.
We know many individuals and small business owners put this off, so this is a great chance to take care of it at no cost. Space is limited, and participants must meet financial eligibility guidelines and register in advance.
If you would be willing to help share this opportunity through your newsletter, social media, or member communications, we would greatly appreciate it. Including it in your weekly email blast would be especially helpful in reaching those who could benefit most.
Registration information is below:
www.pili.org/events/may-poa-clinic-client
217-606-7644
Thank you for your continued support of efforts that strengthen our communities. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or would like additional information.
Best regards,
Natalie Shook
Executive Director
United Way of South Central Illinois
DCEO Grant Training - Writing a Grant Application
DCEO Grant Training
3rd Wednesday of the month 9AM.
This slide presentation will discuss important grant-related topics pertaining to grant management. Each month we will discuss a different component, process, or emerging practice that can benefit potential and existing grantees. Register or view recording of past grant trainings at this link.
• May 20, 2026 - Writing a Grant Application: This training will explain how to complete application documents, how to read a Notice of Funding Opportunity, and how to submit the application package for review.
https://dceo.illinois.gov/aboutdceo/grantopportunities/upcoming-grant-trainings.html
Chamber Lunch and Ribbon Cutting at Locust Street Pub featuring Nova Terra Solar
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
12:00pm-1:00pm
The Locust Street Pub, 824 S. Locust, Centralia, IL 62801
Presentation from community partner Nova Terra Solar.
And help us celebrate the Kretzer's newest restaurant - The Locust Street Pub in Centralia - with an official Ribbon Cutting at the end of lunch!
$25 per person. Menu TBD.
A reminder email with a link to pay by credit card will be sent the week-of the lunch.
Eli Young Band - Strange Hours Tour at Castle Ridge
Event Schedule – Saturday, May 23, 2026
7:00 PM – Show Begins
📍 Venue: Castle Ridge
📍 Location: Centralia, Illinois
Multi-Platinum country hitmakers, Eli Young Band, will bring their Strange Hours Tour to Castle Ridge on Saturday, May 23, 2026, for a night of high-energy live music, chart-topping hits, and brand-new songs from their latest album, Strange Hours. Special guest Jenna Davis will open the show.
Led by an unmistakable vocal and fueled by a Texas-rock edge, Eli Young Band has spent nearly 25 years building one of the most respected and enduring careers in modern country music. The never-changing lineup of Mike Eli, James Young, Jon Jones, and Chris Thompson has grown from college-bar favorites in Denton, Texas, into globe-trotting, arena-packing, chart-topping pioneers.
“Eli Young Band is the definition of a road-tested, fan-driven live act,” said Heath Eric, promoter with The Eric Group. “They’ve built their career the right way, song by song and show by show, and Castle Ridge is the perfect setting for the kind of honest, high-energy performance they deliver every single night. This is going to be a special one for Centralia, Illinois.”
Ticket Information
Presale:
Wednesday, February 4 at 9:00 AM CT through Thursday, February 5 at 11:59 PM CT.
Sign up at CastleRidgeConcerts.com to receive the presale password
Public On Sale:
Friday, February 6 at 9:00 AM CT.
Tickets available at CastleRidgeConcerts.com and ETIX.com.
About Eli Young Band
What goes around comes around, and nearly 25 years after forming in Denton, Texas, Eli Young Band has come full circle. After rising from Texas’ vibrant independent country scene, their 2005 breakout album Level launched the band into the national spotlight, followed by three Billboard Top 5 albums including the No. 1 10,000 Towns and Platinum-certified Life At Best.
The band boasts multiple No. 1 singles including the 5X Platinum “Crazy Girl,” 3X Platinum “Even If It Breaks Your Heart,” Platinum “Drunk Last Night,” and 2X Platinum “Love Ain’t,” along with a catalog of fan-favorite hits that have defined modern country radio for more than a decade.
In 2025, Eli Young Band released Strange Hours, a 13-track album written entirely by the band and recorded back home in Denton at the same studio where Level was born. The project marks a creative homecoming, returning to the raw, grassroots energy that first defined their sound, while bringing the wisdom and edge of 25 years on the road.
The lead single “Home In Hometown” captures the heart of that journey, a powerful reflection on life, family, and finding home wherever the road leads. With millions of fans, more than two decades of hits, and a renewed creative spark, Eli Young Band remains very much in their prime.
About Jenna Davis
Jenna Davis is a captivating rising star who is set to take the country music scene by storm. Her debut album, Where Did That Girl Go?, released June 27th of last year, showcases her undeniable vocals paired with relatable storytelling. The project followed the impressive releases of her SIKE EP and her debut single “DiCaprio”(co-written by Walker Hayes, Kelsea Ballerini and Ross Copperman), which has garnered 15 million streams across platforms. Her prior releases have charted impressively on both Spotify and Apple Music, with streams reaching well into the millions, highlighting her rapidly growing fan base and the far-reaching appeal of her music.
Fresh off the stage from her first-ever run of live shows, Jenna sold out all three debut performances, marking an electrifying introduction to her life on the road. Building on that momentum, she’s gearing up to join Brett Young as direct support at the top of the year, followed by a spring tour supporting Maddox Batson. With her growing fanbase and undeniable stage presence, Davis is quickly proving that her storytelling shines just as brightly live as it does on record.
UP NEXT: The Rising Artist Series
BREAKING NEWS from the Castle
Something NEW. Something BIG. Something EXCITING is coming to the Castle. We’re cooking up something special this concert season, and trust us, you’re going to want to be here for it.
If you love the HOTTEST up-and-coming artists, viral TikTok sensations, and the next wave of Rock, Country, Pop, and more, this is YOUR moment. Catch them NOW before they’re selling out arenas.
Last Saturday of the Month | May through September
May 30 | June 27 | July 25 | August 29 | September 26
LAKESIDE at the Castle
The Next Generation of Artists
Ready for what’s UP NEXT?
UP NEXT: The Rising Artist Series
Presented by Pepsi MidAmerica
Sign up now: UpNextCR.com
Be the first to know. Don’t miss a beat.
Resurrection – A Journey Tribute at Castle Ridge
JUNE 6, 2026 7:00 PM
Event Schedule – Saturday, June 6th, 2026
7:00 PM – Show Begins
📍 Venue: Castle Ridge
📍 Location: Centralia, Illinois
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
KPOP Demon Hunters Fan Fest
JUST ANNOUNCED
K-POP DEMON HUNTERS FAN FEST is coming to THE CASTLE
Sunday, June 7
Castle Ridge | Centralia, IL
PRESALE starts Wednesday, March 25, at 9 AM and continues until Thursday, March 26, at 11:59 PM CT
Sign up for the password: CastleRidgeConcerts.com
VIP Meet n Greets, Early Entry, and Premium Parking are LIMITED
HURRY! This one will sell FAST!
This is NOT just a show… this is a full-on FAN FEST experience for all ages
Dance performances
Live DJ party
Demon Hunters sing-along
Giveaways + trivia
Interactive games + full-cast finale
Bring the kids. Bring your friends. This is going to be an absolute BLAST.
Early Entry: 1:00 PM
Gates: 1:30 PM
Show: 2:30 PM
Tickets start at just $14.50 (plus standard processing fees)
Get tickets:
https://www.etix.com/.../kpop-demon-hunters-fan-fest...
This one is for the kids… and let’s be honest… the parents too
We’ll see you at The Castle
American Legion Golf Tournament
4 person scramble
$65/person ($260/team)
$50 Hole Sponsor
9am shotgun start
Food and beverages available.
Prizes for longest putt and closest to pin.
Send entry fees and player names to:
SAL #446
117 S. Poplar St.
Centralia, IL 62801
or sign up at Colonial Golf Course
Illinois Cornhole State Championship
ACO Illinois State Cornhole Championship
Season 21
Date: June 13-14th, 2026 (Pre Party, Friday Night – June 12th)
Hosted by- Brian Jones and Mia Ray
Jersey County Cornhole (JCC)
Location: Castle Ridge
Address: 1750 Tee Ln, Centralia IL, 62801
What you need to know! This is a 2-day event.
Please check to see which divisions are on each day.
Pre-register on Scoreholio Need ACO member & ACO Stamped bags to play in the State tournament.
All players will be seeded according to their current ACO World Rankings.
All tournament brackets will be double elimination.
*Sit N Goes/Mini Blind Draws will be running both days $10 per player
Fun side Games will be running both days
PRE-PARTY - FRIDAY JUNE 12th
Doors Open 6 pm
Juneteenth Celebration in Centralia
The City & Community of Centralia is excited to host Centralia Juneteenth 2026: Celebrating Our Finest. This is the largest Juneteenth Celebration in Southern Illinois. June 13th, 2026 at Laura Leake Park.
Join us in celebrating faith, freedom and community!
CENTRALIA JUNETEENTH COMMITTEE SEEKS SPONSORS!
Roots & Boots Tour at Castle Ridge
JUNE 19, 2026 7:00 PM
Featuring SAMMY KERSHAW, AARON TIPPIN, and COLLIN RAY
with special guest Deana Carter
Event Schedule – Friday, June 19th, 2026
7:00 PM – Show Begins
📍 Venue: Castle Ridge
📍 Location: Centralia, Illinois
Sweat Fest at The Body Shoppe
June 20th- Full Hyrox Simulations
June 21st- Half Hyrox Simulations
Live Music at Locust Street Pub
Straight out of Nashville, TN Shawn Mayer is coming back to Centralia, IL !!!
LIVE AT:
"Locust St Pub"
(824 S Locust St, Centralia, IL 62801)
FRIDAY, JUNE 26 | 9PM-12AM
With her soulful voice and rock-meets-country sound, Shawn brings the energy and unforgettable hits—joined by special guest Tracy Ingersoll on drums!
Don’t miss this powerhouse performance!
www.shawnmayer.com
FB: @ShawnMayerMusic | IG: @ShawnMayer | TikTok: @shawnmayermusic
VFW Flea Market
On Saturday, June 27th we will be having an indoor flea market. Food and drinks will be available.
Vendor spots are available. Call Harold at 618 367 9986.
See you there!!!
UP NEXT: The Rising Artist Series
BREAKING NEWS from the Castle
Something NEW. Something BIG. Something EXCITING is coming to the Castle. We’re cooking up something special this concert season, and trust us, you’re going to want to be here for it.
If you love the HOTTEST up-and-coming artists, viral TikTok sensations, and the next wave of Rock, Country, Pop, and more, this is YOUR moment. Catch them NOW before they’re selling out arenas.
Last Saturday of the Month | May through September
May 30 | June 27 | July 25 | August 29 | September 26
LAKESIDE at the Castle
The Next Generation of Artists
Ready for what’s UP NEXT?
UP NEXT: The Rising Artist Series
Presented by Pepsi MidAmerica
Sign up now: UpNextCR.com
Be the first to know. Don’t miss a beat.
Downtown Summer Concert Series
Crooked Creek Winery Downtown’s Annual Summer Concert Series is back again for 2026! This free event offers live music in the middle of the street in downtown Centralia, food trucks, community events, the famous spiked lemon shake-ups, and more!
Every Saturday night from July 11-August 15.
Community events are from 3:00pm - 6:00pm, live music is 6:00pm - 9:00pm.
Bring a lawn chair and join the community in the street!
📍 100 Block of East Broadway.
Broadway Open Golf Tournament
Save the date
Broadway Tavern’s Golf Open Tournament is on July 18, 2026 at 9:00am at Colonial Golf Course.
More details to come.
CCW Downtown Summer Concert Series
Crooked Creek Winery Downtown’s Annual Summer Concert Series is back again for 2026! This free event offers live music in the middle of the street in downtown Centralia, food trucks, community events, the famous spiked lemon shake-ups, and more!
Every Saturday night from July 11-August 15.
Community events are from 3:00pm - 6:00pm, live music is 6:00pm - 9:00pm.
Bring a lawn chair and join the community in the street!
📍 100 Block of East Broadway.
CCW Downtown Summer Concert Series
Crooked Creek Winery Downtown’s Annual Summer Concert Series is back again for 2026! This free event offers live music in the middle of the street in downtown Centralia, food trucks, community events, the famous spiked lemon shake-ups, and more!
Every Saturday night from July 11-August 15.
Community events are from 3:00pm - 6:00pm, live music is 6:00pm - 9:00pm.
Bring a lawn chair and join the community in the street!
📍 100 Block of East Broadway.
UP NEXT: The Rising Artist Series
BREAKING NEWS from the Castle
Something NEW. Something BIG. Something EXCITING is coming to the Castle. We’re cooking up something special this concert season, and trust us, you’re going to want to be here for it.
If you love the HOTTEST up-and-coming artists, viral TikTok sensations, and the next wave of Rock, Country, Pop, and more, this is YOUR moment. Catch them NOW before they’re selling out arenas.
Last Saturday of the Month | May through September
May 30 | June 27 | July 25 | August 29 | September 26
LAKESIDE at the Castle
The Next Generation of Artists
Ready for what’s UP NEXT?
UP NEXT: The Rising Artist Series
Presented by Pepsi MidAmerica
Sign up now: UpNextCR.com
Be the first to know. Don’t miss a beat.
CCW Downtown Summer Concert Series
Crooked Creek Winery Downtown’s Annual Summer Concert Series is back again for 2026! This free event offers live music in the middle of the street in downtown Centralia, food trucks, community events, the famous spiked lemon shake-ups, and more!
Every Saturday night from July 11-August 15.
Community events are from 3:00pm - 6:00pm, live music is 6:00pm - 9:00pm.
Bring a lawn chair and join the community in the street!
📍 100 Block of East Broadway.
CCW Downtown Summer Concert Series
Crooked Creek Winery Downtown’s Annual Summer Concert Series is back again for 2026! This free event offers live music in the middle of the street in downtown Centralia, food trucks, community events, the famous spiked lemon shake-ups, and more!
Every Saturday night from July 11-August 15.
Community events are from 3:00pm - 6:00pm, live music is 6:00pm - 9:00pm.
Bring a lawn chair and join the community in the street!
📍 100 Block of East Broadway.
NBRA Title Series at Raccoon Lake
The National Boat Race Association (NBRA) will be back in Centralia, IL. for their title race series! Castle Ridge is the official viewing spot for the races.
August 13-16, 2026.
More details on exact times will come out as soon as they are available!
CCW Downtown Summer Concert Series
Crooked Creek Winery Downtown’s Annual Summer Concert Series is back again for 2026! This free event offers live music in the middle of the street in downtown Centralia, food trucks, community events, the famous spiked lemon shake-ups, and more!
Every Saturday night from July 11-August 15.
Community events are from 3:00pm - 6:00pm, live music is 6:00pm - 9:00pm.
Bring a lawn chair and join the community in the street!
📍 100 Block of East Broadway.
Travis Tritt at Castle Ridge
Castle Ridge presents TRAVIS TRITT
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Gates open at 6:30 pm CT / Show starts at 8:00 pm CT
Presale: Wednesday, January 21, at 10:00 AM through Thursday, January 22, at 11:59 PM CT
Sign up at CastleRidgeConcerts.com to receive the presale password
Public on sale: Friday, January 23 at 10:00 AM CT
Castle Ridge
1750 Tee Lane
Centralia, IL 62801
CastleRidgeConcerts.com
Centralia Balloon Fest
The 37th Annual Centralia Balloon Fest will be held on August 21-22-23, 2026 at Centralia Fairveiw Park.
Friday hours of Centralia Balloon Fest is 3:00pm - 10:00pm.
For details, visit the centraliaballoonfest.com or click on “Balloon Fest” at the top of the page
Centralia Balloon Fest
The 37th Annual Centralia Balloon Fest will be held on August 21-22-23, 2026 at Centralia Fairview Park.
Saturday hours of Centralia Balloon Fest is 3:00pm - 10:00pm.
For details, visit the centraliaballoonfest.com or click on “Balloon Fest” at the top of the page
Centralia Balloon Fest
The 37th Annual Centralia Balloon Fest will be held on August 21-22-23, 2026 at Centralia Fairview Park.
Sunday hours of Centralia Balloon Fest is 12:00pm - 6:00pm. Sunday is Free Family Fun Day! Entry and parking are free. There are kids activities all day in the park.
For details, visit the centraliaballoonfest.com or click on “Balloon Fest” at the top of the page
UP NEXT: The Rising Artist Series
BREAKING NEWS from the Castle
Something NEW. Something BIG. Something EXCITING is coming to the Castle. We’re cooking up something special this concert season, and trust us, you’re going to want to be here for it.
If you love the HOTTEST up-and-coming artists, viral TikTok sensations, and the next wave of Rock, Country, Pop, and more, this is YOUR moment. Catch them NOW before they’re selling out arenas.
Last Saturday of the Month | May through September
May 30 | June 27 | July 25 | August 29 | September 26
LAKESIDE at the Castle
The Next Generation of Artists
Ready for what’s UP NEXT?
UP NEXT: The Rising Artist Series
Presented by Pepsi MidAmerica
Sign up now: UpNextCR.com
Be the first to know. Don’t miss a beat.
Chamber Luncheon
Save the date for the September Luncheon! Wednesday, September 16 from 12:00pm-1:00pm. Tentatively scheduled at Intermountain Electronics.
UP NEXT: The Rising Artist Series
BREAKING NEWS from the Castle
Something NEW. Something BIG. Something EXCITING is coming to the Castle. We’re cooking up something special this concert season, and trust us, you’re going to want to be here for it.
If you love the HOTTEST up-and-coming artists, viral TikTok sensations, and the next wave of Rock, Country, Pop, and more, this is YOUR moment. Catch them NOW before they’re selling out arenas.
Last Saturday of the Month | May through September
May 30 | June 27 | July 25 | August 29 | September 26
LAKESIDE at the Castle
The Next Generation of Artists
Ready for what’s UP NEXT?
UP NEXT: The Rising Artist Series
Presented by Pepsi MidAmerica
Sign up now: UpNextCR.com
Be the first to know. Don’t miss a beat.
Chamber Luncheon at Kaskaskia College
Save the date for the chamber luncheon at Kaskaskia College on Wednesday, October 21, from 12:00pm-1:00pm. It will be held at the Lifelong Learning Center. More details to come closer to time.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s® at Kaskaskia College
Join the South Central Illinois community for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, a powerful and hopeful event uniting families, friends, caregivers, and local businesses in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias—conditions impacting millions of Americans and countless local families.
Participants of all ages and abilities will come together to honor loved ones, support those currently facing the disease, and take meaningful action against a condition that deeply affects our families, workplaces, and community. The Walk is more than a single day—it’s a movement fueled by hope, remembrance, and determination.
Every dollar raised supports the Alzheimer’s Association’s critical mission: advancing research toward treatment, prevention, and a cure, while providing 24/7 care and support for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and the caregivers who walk this journey with them right here in our community.
Whether you form a team, walk in honor or memory of someone you love, or support the event through sponsorship, your involvement makes a difference.
Get involved. Get inspired. Help end Alzheimer’s.
Register today and be part of one of Belleville’s most meaningful community events at www.alz.org/SCILWalk.
Chamber Luncheon at SSM Health
Save the Date! The Chamber luncheon on Wednesday, November 18, is at SSM Health from 12:00pm-1:00pm
BINGO with Centralia Library and High Point Residence
Come play bingo with Centralia Regional Library and High Point Residence!
It’s free for anyone of any age to play with free prizes up for grabs, from snacks to home goods and seasonal decor to toiletries, so come join us!
Bingo is on the last Wednesday of every month unless of holiday or closure in the 2nd floor Monken Activity Room, accessible by elevator and stairs.
Kaskaskia College's John W. "Bill" Hawley Court Dedication
You’re invited to a special celebration at Kaskaskia College!
Join us for the Grand Opening of our new Competition Gym and the Court Dedication honoring John W. “Bill” Hawley, whose leadership and dedication have helped shape the College for decades.
Saturday, April 25, 2026
2–4 PM
New Gym | KC Main Campus
Be part of this exciting moment in KC history as we officially open the new gym and celebrate the legacy of Bill Hawley.
This event is free and open to the public, but we do kindly ask that you RSVP at the link for seating purposes.
If you are unable to attend but would still like to support the Bill Hawley Student Success Fund, you may contribute at the ticket link.
Free Math and English Readiness Workshop at Kaskaskia College
Students at Kaskaskia College will work with math and English faculty to prepare for college-level classes. They will take a placement exam, attend a Saturday workshop, and complete 10 hours of follow-up study.
Students will evaluate their math and English skills, identify areas for improvement, and receive a personalized study plan to support their academic success.
Live Music at The Broadway
Live Music at The Broadway Tavern
The John and Dave Duo will be at the Broadway Tavern on Friday, April 26, from 8:00pm-11:00pm! Come out, have a drink, eat some food, and listen to live music.
Ribbon Cutting and Dedication for the Centralia Commercial Historic District
Centralia downtown buildings on the National Historic Registry are now marked in Downtown Centralia with a plaque on the sidewalk in front of the business. There are currently over 50 buildings in a 7 block area.
We are celebrating this opening of the walk with a ribbon cutting event at 2:00pm on Friday, April 24!
This event is open to the public. All are welcome to meet us on the corner of East Broadway and South Poplar to do a partial tour at 2:15pm. This tour is designed to walk downtown while following along on the See Centralia website to learn about why the buildings were chosen as a part of this walking tour.
This tour is here today because of the late John Stuehmeier. John started this project back in 2012, and in 2025 the City of Centralia was able to get the plaques ordered.
Join us in celebrating this milestone for our downtown and learn how to use the website to get around!
Raccoon Lake Association Meeting
You are invited to attend the Spring Dinner and Business Meeting of the Raccoon Lake Association at Castle Ridge on Thursday, April 23, 2026.
5:30 – 7:00 pm: Social time with dinner from the menu will be held in a private room at Stonewater Restaurant in Castle Ridge. Dinner will be “Dutch treat”.
Those planning to dine are asked to RSVP by either texting Michele Gulley at (618)-918-6066 or calling Castle Ridge at (618)-352-6070. Please state your reservation is for the Raccoon Lake Association Dinner, as well as the number of people who will be eating. We would appreciate RSVPs no later than Tuesday, April 21st.
7 pm: The business meeting
REPORT & FOLLOW-UP-
Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner (2/5/2026)
Regional Business Expo (3/28/2026)
DISCUSS -
Discuss how the Association can best help the City of Centralia obtain grants for shoreline stabilization
Continue to discuss City property boundaries along the eastern end of Raccoon Lake to better define where hunting is prohibited
Determine the best timeline to lower the level of Raccoon Lake for the purpose of performing dock and shoreline maintenance
Consider a formal request to the City of Centralia to temporarily lower the level of Raccoon Lake for dock and shoreline maintenance
SCHEDULE-
Schedule dates and determine work crews for future lake cleanup with the SS Betty.
Residents from around the lake and interested community members are encouraged to attend. We hope to see you on April 23rd!
Annual voting membership of $20 per family can be paid at the meeting.
President – Tom Hawkins, Vice-President – Greg Queen, Secretary – Jeannell Charman, Treasurer – Patricia Accomando
Directors – Peter Pierceall, Missy Reed, Alan Sanner, Shannon Shipley, Allison Wiltison
Strengthening Compliance - Illinois Chamber Training
Strengthening Compliance: A Practical Guide to Employment Practices Audits
In today’s complex and rapidly changing regulatory environment, employers face increasing pressure to ensure their workplace practices comply with evolving legal standards. At the same time, operational demands and growth can make it difficult to identify hidden risks before they become costly problems.
A comprehensive employment practices audit is not just a compliance exercise—it is a critical business tool for uncovering risk, improving consistency, and protecting your organization.
Location: Virtual event
Date and time: Wed, Apr 22, 2026 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Spring 2026 Combined Music Concert at KC
The Spring Combined Music Concert is quickly approaching on Tuesday, April 21st, at 7:00 PM in the Jane Knight Auditorium. The KC Instrumental Ensemble and Concert Choir will perform a variety of pieces, including works by Ola Gjeilo, Thomas Morley, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Modest Mussorgsky, and many more! The event will be livestreamed and free and open to the public
OSHA Updates and Tips for Managing an Inspection - Illinois Chamber Training
OSHA Updates for 2026 and Tips for Managing an Inspection
The webinar will cover important OSHA updates for 2026, including those relating to OSHA’s current activities and OSHA’s ongoing enforcement efforts. The presentation will also cover the typical progression of an OSHA inspection and provide practical tips for successfully managing an OSHA inspection and ensuring no citations are issued. Finally, the presentation will discuss how to handle OSHA citations in the event they are received. Plan to join Matthew Horn with Amundsen Davis for this timely update!
Location: Virtual event
Date and time: Tue, Apr 21, 2026 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Line Dancing with Bonnie Love at Centralia Library
Y'all are invited to help us kick off National Library Week! Come learn the steps. All skill levels welcome. No partner needed. Admission is free and open to all ages. Refreshments provided.
CHS Performing Arts Booster Trivia Night
It’s Disney Trivia Night on Saturday, April 18, at 7:00pm! Located at the American Legion Post 446, The CHS Performing Arts Booster is hosting Trivia Night.
Cash prizes will be awarded. Teams up to 8 people are allowed. It’s $100 per table.
50/50 Raffle and Mega Basket Raffle will be available as well.
RAIL April Market
Save the Date!! RAIL’s April Market is Saturday, April 18, from 9:00am-1:00pm
Vendors reach out if you’re interested in securing your spot ( $50 per space/ table & chairs included)
—limited spaces—
RAIL Coffee Room will be filled with your favorite local makers, sweet spring finds, handmade treasures, and all the goodies you didn’t know you needed until you see them styled up and calling your name.
Grab a bite to eat and some coffee while you shop.
Live Music at The Broadway Tavern
Roaming Home will be live at The Broadway Tavern from 8:00pm-12:00am
Walmart Seeks Artists for Tshirt Design to Benefit Children’s Miracle Network
Calling all young artists!
Join our Children’s Miracle Network Drawing Contest!
Kids can create their own design for a chance to be featured on our official CMN T-shirt!
How to enter:
• Create your drawing
• Use white paper (no larger than 8.5” x 11”)
• Make sure lines are dark & bold
• Turn it in at the Front End Service Desk
• Submit by April 15th
One winning design will be chosen and featured on our CMN T-shirt!
Let’s get creative for a great cause!
Chamber Lunch at Simply Soul - Featuring Child Abuse Prevention Month
RSVP for Chamber Lunch at Simplysoul - Featuring Non-profit Organizations that Serve Youth and Families
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Simplysoul Restaurant, 548 N. Poplar, Centralia, IL 62801
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month - presentations from:
The Amy Center
Centralia City Schools
Centralia Community Youth Center
Foster Kairos
Marion County Child Abuse Prevention Coalition
The Restore Network
and more
$25 per person. Menu: Fish or chicken, mac & cheese, collard greens, green beans, and corn bread.
A reminder email with a link to pay by credit card will be sent the week-of the lunch.
RSVP ONLINE: https://forms.gle/nDztFR35kLtzmUyo8
DCEO Grant Training - Notice of Funding Opportunities
DCEO Grant Training
3rd Wednesday of the month 9AM.
This slide presentation will discuss important grant-related topics pertaining to grant management. Each month we will discuss a different component, process, or emerging practice that can benefit potential and existing grantees. Register or view recording of past grant trainings at this link.
• April 15, 2026 - Notice of Funding Opportunities: This training will explain what a Notice of Funding Opportunity is and give a breakdown of the template and where to find information.
• May 20, 2026 - Writing a Grant Application: This training will explain how to complete application documents, how to read a Notice of Funding Opportunity, and how to submit the application package for review.
https://dceo.illinois.gov/aboutdceo/grantopportunities/upcoming-grant-trainings.html
Blues Fest at Castle Ridge
Inaugural Blues Fest at the Castle
April 11, 2026 7:30 pm
Join us for the inaugural Blues Fest at Castle Ridge on Saturday, April 11th, 2026. This event will headline Albert Cummings with special guests Cat Daddy’O and Kingdom Brothers. Get tickets now at https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/53954711/albert-cummings-centralia-castle-ridge. Albert Cummings is...
An Evening of the Arts Dinner and Concert Fundraiser at Kaskaskia College
Join Us for An Evening of the Arts!
Enjoy a memorable night of fine dining and live entertainment while supporting student success at Kaskaskia College!
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Social Hour: 6:00 PM | Dinner: 6:30 PM
KC Lifelong Learning Center
Your evening includes:
A delicious catered dinner
Musical & theatre performances by KC Fine & Performing Arts
Student artwork displays
Cash bar available
Tickets: $50 per person
All proceeds benefit KC Fine & Performing Arts students.
Reserve your seats today!
618-545-3026
https://www.jotform.com/form/240455878781066
Come celebrate the arts and make a difference for our talented students!
Centralia BPW 100 Year Anniversary at Centralia Historical Museum
Centralia BPW will be holding an event to celebrate our 100th Anniversary on Saturday, April 11th, from 2 to 4 pm at the Centralia Historical Museum. We will start a short program at 3 pm that highlighting our history and membership. We will have refreshments to enjoy while looking through BPW artifacts on display.
Easter Brunch at Castle Ridge
APRIL 5, 2026 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Join us for Easter Brunch at the Castle in Centralia on Sunday, April 5th!!
Enjoy our Omelet Station and Make Your Own Waffle Station, Smoked Ham and Turkey, Mimosas and other breakfast buffet items that you and your family are sure to love.
Also, a special appearance by the Easter Bunny is expected!
Purchase your tickets today!
Adults- $34.95 Child 12 and under- 12.95
Easter Egg Hunt at Liberty Village
Liberty Village of Centralia is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt for children ages 1-10!
This event is on Friday, April 3 starting at 11:00am.
Bring a basket and get ready to hunt!
