6/21/99

Plans are progressing for the construction of the Ilasco Historical Marker with a completition date of October 1999.

One of the biggest contributions has been in response to the $100 donation to include family names on the marker. The names have been limited to 13 characters, which means in many cases only the last name will be included. A cut-off date of Aug. 15 has been made in order to meet the construction deadline.

The dinner-dance on May 8 had 448 people in attendance.

Michael Kettlekamp has provided his services to assure the historical marker will blend with the terrain and follow proper construction procedures. Also, landscaping will be added so the marker area will be a proud addition to the area.

The committee hopes to add professional constructed flag poles to the site to fly the American flag and the flags of countries represented by immigrants. These flags will be displayed on special holidays.

Ameren Corporation has invited the marker committee to apply for a grant for low-energy lighting fixtures. Lighting grants are a community service program provided by Ameren in their trade territory formerly served by Union Electric.

For more information about adding family names to the marker, contact Anna Kolarik Baker at 221-7943, or Mary Rita Zerbonia Brothers at 221-9052.