The Hancock County Community News Roundup is full of engaging events and initiatives aimed at enhancing community connections and supporting local youth. From historical discussions to student achievements, Hancock County continues to thrive with activities dedicated to learning, leadership, and celebration.
On Saturday night, the Hancock County Historical Society is set to welcome Reg Ankrom, a distinguished Vietnam-era U.S. Navy veteran and historian. He will present on the theme "The Statehood of Illinois and County Formation" at the Carthage Community Center, located at 301 W. Main, starting at 7 p.m. Ankrom, whose fascination with Abraham Lincoln led to extensive research on Stephen Douglas, will also recount the significant day when Hancock County was officially organized on January 13, 1825.
For the youth of Hancock County, opportunities abound through the Hancock Youth Leadership (HYL) program, which is currently accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year. Collaboratively run by the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, HYL is focused on developing leadership skills among high school students. Young leaders will have monthly sessions covering diverse topics such as agriculture, arts, business, and more. Interested students from the Hancock County area and Findlay City Schools, including homeschooled individuals, are encouraged to apply by March 12, 2025, via the chamber's website.
Adding excitement to local achievements, students at Eastern Hancock High School are gaining valuable real-world experiences through their internships. Shyann Roland, who has been working at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hancock County, shared, "I have learned so much about what goes on inside a company. I love being able to learn new things and help wherever I am needed." This initiative was highlighted during the recent Community Engagement Session held at the Thrive Center, where over 100 attendees discussed the collaboration between students and community partners for job opportunities.
Superintendent George Philhower emphasized the importance of connecting students with opportunities, stating, "The message is...we have lots of kids who need lots of opportunities, and we’ve got lots of community partners who have lots of opportunities." The Eastern Hancock Schools have made significant strides over the last few years to prepare students not just academically but to equip them for life beyond graduation.
Meanwhile, Hancock is also making strides in the athletic arena. Last Saturday was historic for local high jumpers as freshman Madison Booth and Hagerstown Community College sophomore Aidan Faith both achieved remarkable personal records. Booth cleared 5 feet, 2 inches at the Class 1A West region indoor track championships, marking her as one of the top freshmen nationally this season. "It felt awesome...telling myself, 'I got this,'" she said. Aidan Faith, competing simultaneously at the VMI Winter Classic, cleared 5 feet, 6 inches, earning the top performance for the NJCAA this season. Their coach remarked on the significance of this achievement, saying it was exhilarating for him to witness both athletes reach such remarkable heights on the same day.
Conversely, serious discussions were held at the recent public hearing concerning the proposed budget cap for the ConVal School District. School Board Chair Richard Dunning expressed grave concerns, saying, "We are very, very concerned about this article passing." The petition, which could cap the budget at $29,000 per pupil, would drastically alter funding and resources for local schools, reflecting wild concern among board members and community attendees alike. Dunning emphasized, "It's not just a budget cap, it's a budget cut," highlighting potential impacts on academic programs, athletics, and extracurricular activities.
Community member David Kidd pointed out concerning trends about the proposal, arguing, "This is the work of Free Staters. Their goal is to destroy public education in New Hampshire." The local focus on education as it relates to budgetary constraints is underscored by upcoming public hearings to discuss these petitions, scheduled across schools from February 13 to February 21. Community input remains pivotal as the district navigates these proposals.
Collectively, Hancock County symbolizes vibrant community engagement and dedication to its future leaders and students. From educational discussions to celebrating student athletic accomplishments, it’s evident the community is working to empower its youth and provide them with the skills necessary for success.