Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce

Last weekend, dozens of our neighbors fanned out across our community to begin spring cleaning. We divided into teams, took our trash bags and spent the morning picking up the paper cups, cans, cigarette butts and other junk that has accumulated on our streets and sidewalks over that long, cold winter. As we filled our garbage bags, we talked about everything – from the beautiful weather and our summer vacation plans to the struggling economy and what the government is trying to do to fix it. We made some new friends, and like Sonna Iorio who founded the clean-up event, we made a positive difference in our community.

Others of us spent the weekend manning or shopping at a series of garage sales across town, using the opportunity to clean out our attics, closets and basements or taking the opportunity to find great deals on treasures to spruce up our homes and yards. Still others waved to our neighbors as we worked in unison mowing grass, pruning trees and planting flowers. Whatever group you were in, we all were looking toward the future and to each other as friends, neighbors and partners in making our community a great place to live and work.

This is a wonderful time of year to take a moment to give thanks for the things our community has to offer – committed volunteers, people who take pride in their property and businesses that supply the goods and services we need to maintain our homes and yards. This is also a good time to make a commitment to doing our part to keep our community special.

· Once a day, if you are able, pick up any trash that has accumulated in your yard.
· When you are spring cleaning, donate any gently worn items you no longer need to local social service organizations.
· Reach out to your neighbors. If you have not met them, make a point to introduce yourself, and discover your common interests.
· Shop locally. Before you drive to Champaign for something, ask yourself whether you can find it in Rantoul. Then think about the gas you will use to drive and the time you will sacrifice to commute. Shopping in Rantoul is more cost effective than you might first think.
· Spend time at our aquatic center, parks and golf course. We have one of the best recreation/park systems in the state. Take advantage of it!

With finances tight for so many of us this year, we are going to spend a lot of time right here at home. Let’s work together to make it a “staycation” that is fun for everyone and builds community.