Message from the Mayor

Message from Mayor Missey Moorman Schumacher - May 2023

A few months back, I was contacted by Girl Scout Troop 75644, led by Troop Leaders Jessica Marchiniak and Brandy Malone, as they looked to earn badges for Earth Month. They came into the Village Hall for a visit and tour, and during our conversations, the topic of a Village of Channahon flower came up. While the Village has an official seal, logo, slogan and flag, we've never officially designated a flower or plant to represent the Village. As I watched their eyes light up at the conversation, I presented them with a challenge: to research, identify and propose an official flower for the Village of Channahon.

Troop 75644 took the idea and immediately ran with it, going above and beyond what I had even envisioned. Using their money earned from Girl Scout cookie sales, the troop hired a naturalist from Four Rivers Environmental Education Center to teach them about native plants and animals. From there, they met with the Three Rivers Public Library historian and spent time diving into books about native plants at both the Minooka and Channahon library branches.

Through their research, the troop eventually landed on a plant that stood out for its resilience and attraction for pollinators such as butterflies, bees and hummingbirds. Compiling all of the data and information they'd gathered in their research, the troop then formally nominated their selection at the May 15, 2023 Village Board Meeting. Armed with posters, information and a very compelling presentation, the troop petitioned the Board to adopt the Purple Coneflower as the official Village of Channahon flower, which was passed with resounding success.

I could not be more proud of Girl Scout Troop 75644. They truly stepped up to my challenge, and thanks to their diligence and commitment, they are leaving a lasting legacy on the Village of Channahon. Most importantly, their hard work and dedication earned them those Earth Month badges, which they can now wear proudly knowing that they have had a true impact on our Village's history.

The troop and the Village are looking for ways to develop a sustainable Purple Coneflower program within the Village. In the meantime, be on the lookout for Purple Coneflower seed giveaways coming your way later this summer!

Best wishes,

Mayor Missey Moorman Schumacher