This Week in Pictures, July 31, 2024
Going for a swim, bike and run
The Northwood pool and streets were busy on Saturday morning as local and visiting athletes took part in an event to show their support for first responders, law enforcement and emergency personnel and those that have served in the armed forces. The First Responders "Bring in the Backup" Triathlon began with a 150 meter swim in the Northwood Swimming Pool, followed by a 10.4 mile bike ride through the community and back to the pool, ending with a 5K run to the fairgrounds and back to the finish line at the pool. (Pictures provided by Valerie Paulson. See more pictures and results on the Bring in the Backup Triathlon Facebook page.)
Some cheerful scavenging
As a part of their preparation for the coming season, the Northwood-Kensett cheerleaders took part in some team bonding. That included traveling around the community on a scavenger hunt. They took pictures with a fireplace, red door, deputy, umbrella, diving board, teachers, former cheerleader and more, in addition to the items they found.
Talking trees
Worth County Extension welcomed more than 50 visitors to the Worth County Fairgrounds last week, to learn more about tree treatment and selection. Extension education specialist Dennis Johnson hosted the event. Local experts Paul Hogan and Mike Bode demonstrated different techniques to treat trees that may be facing emerald ash borer infestation. Hogan demonstrated how he sprays trees, using insecticide to soak into the bark. Bode demonstrated how to inject chemicals into trees to fight the pest. Extension forestry specialist Billy Beck walked around the fairgrounds and talked about some of the tree varieties there. He also shared tips for selecting tree varieties for properties and how to revitalize and grow strong wind breaks. After they learned about tree care and selection, the group enjoyed a meal that included hamburgers provided and prepared by the Worth County Cattlemen.
Five generations
The Kalvigs held a family reunion this past weekend, July 26. With everyone in attendance they were able to take a photo with five generations. Pictured are (in front) great-great-grandmother Verna Weitzel of Northwood holding baby Hadley Murphy of Austin, Minn.; (in back, from left) grandmother Nichole Gordon of Austin, great-grandmother Susan Lau of Glenville, Minn., and mother, Desiree Schultz of Austin.
Love places at Illinois State swim meet
The Homewood-Flossmoor Hammerheads swim team’s Jax-Ryan Love, age 10, placed sixth in the Individual Medley and ninth in the 400 Free at the Illinois State Long Course Swim Meet. These athletes commit to two hours of practice per night, five days a week, for 11 months a year. Additionally, they engage in one-hour agility training sessions two days a week. Love is the son of Derek and Amy Love of Illinois and grandson of Daryl and Wanda Love of Northwood.