FREEPORT — Juliet Moderow is a recent recipient of the National Audubon Society William Dutcher Award. She attended the National Audubon Leadership Conference held in Estes Park, Colorado from Nov. 2-5, where she accepted the award. Moderow is a Biology instructor at Highland Community College, and is active with the local Northwest Audubon Society. 

She has been a board member in different capacities over the past 10 years ranging from Education chair, Publicity, Vice President, and President for two years. She implemented Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) initiatives during her time on the board, focusing on belonging and accessibility in birding. She also has made it a goal to ensure that people of color can be welcomed into the birding community, which has historically lacked diversity. This connects with her work as Co-chair of the Highland Diversity Committee.

“I’m proud to represent the Northwest Illinois Audubon Society for the initiatives that I have led for our chapter related to diversity and inclusion in birding over the past few years,” Moderow said. “I am humbled by the honor because the work I have done in the community is something that I truly enjoy — teaching people of all ages, color, abilities, and identities about the beauty of birds. I am very appreciative of this recognition and hope it can inspire others to do similar work.”

Some local initiatives she developed with the Northwest Audobon Society were donating binoculars for children and adults to check out at the Freeport Public Library, holding various events for youth in the community, starting a bird club program at the Freeport Boys and Girls Club, giving programs at local nursing homes and independent living housing, developing accessible bird outings for individuals with physical disabilities, and helping Freeport become one of the first of three Bird Cities of Illinois (which is also a program she helped develop). In addition, she voluntarily teaches HCC Lifelong Learning courses on Basic Birding. Overall, she is committed to teaching people of all ages, abilities, races, ethnicities, and identities about birds which helps in the conservation and protection of birds. 

The William Dutcher Award was established to recognize outstanding Audubon volunteers who exemplify the standard of service to Audubon established by William Dutcher, the first chairman of the National Association of Audubon Societies in 1905. A tireless birder, researcher, and scholar, he was one of the first to promote the idea of bird sanctuaries, conservation education, and bird photography. He was instrumental in convincing President Theodore Roosevelt to set aside Pelican Island, the first federal wildlife refuge, and fought for early wildlife laws. Recognizing the need for effective local organizations, Dutcher helped create the first Audubon chapters and oversaw Audubon’s growth from a loose-knit federation to a powerful society.

NW Illinois Ag Industry Expo to showcase local opportunities for students

FREEPORT — The Highland Community College Agriculture Department would like to invite area students and employers to the Northwest Illinois Agriculture Industry Ag Expo. The event will begin at 9 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 8 at Highland Community College, 2998 W. Pearl City Rd., Freeport, Ill.

The Ag Expo brings together local agricultural employers with college and high school students for a day of exploring career opportunities. Employers will put on display the variety of agricultural employment options available in northwest Illinois. Career-ready college students along with career-exploring high school students will connect to match interests with opportunities. 

“By uniting agricultural employers with future employees at this event, we hope we can expose students to diverse career options available in agriculture, and also facilitate the hiring process for employers,” said Justin Ebert, Highland Agriculture instructor. 

In addition to professional networking, the full-day event for students includes hands-on activities related to Highland Agriculture certificates and degrees, a complimentary lunch, and an optional campus tour. 

“It is our intent that students in attendance can link their personal interests to classes and degrees, and most importantly, to professional opportunities available in our region. We hope this event encourages, inspires, and invites the next generation of agriculturalists to plant their future, right here in northwest Illinois, ” said Monica Pierce, Highland Agriculture Instructor.

Both employers and participants can register to attend this event by contacting Justin Ebert at justin.ebert@highland.edu or Monica Pierce at monica.pierce@highland.edu. The deadline for registration is Dec. 1.

Highland to hold Chorale and Youth Choir Holiday Concert

FREEPORT — Enjoy the festive sounds of familiar and new holiday songs with a Holiday Concert by the Highland Community College Chorale and Youth Choir at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3 in the Fine Arts Center Theatre located in the Ferguson Fine Arts Center, 2998 W. Pearl City Rd., Freeport, Ill.

The Highland Chorale, under the direction of Heidi Spotts-Manthey, and Youth Choir, under the direction of Dagny Brandt, will feature a selection of holiday favorites sure to delight young and old alike. 

“The Highland Chorale looks forward to sharing their gift of music with you this season,” said Spotts-Manthey.

The Highland Chorale is composed of community members from across northwest Illinois. The age range is 18 to 90.

“The Highland Youth Choir singers are a dedicated group of singers in grades one through eleven, and it is a delight to work with them. They are looking forward to sharing their joy and excitement about the holiday season, as they sing a variety of holiday songs,” Brandt said.

The concert is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome.

For more on Highland Fine Arts, visit highland.edu.

Highland Music Department holds instrumental Holiday Concert

FREEPORT — The Highland Community College Concert Band and Orchestra will hold their joint Holiday Concert at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1 in the Fine Arts Theatre in the Ferguson Fine Arts Center, 2998 W. Pearl City Rd., Freeport, Ill.

The concert band, under the direction of Scott Stich, will be playing many traditional Christmas Carols, plus a sentimental homage to Christmas. Alfred Reed’s arrangement of “Greensleeves” will be prominently featured, as well as “Angels We Have Heard on High.”

“Last year’s December concert was fun, and light, and set the mood for the upcoming Christmas season,” Stich said. “Come and join us and feel the warmth of the music and spirit of the season.”

The Orchestra is conducted by Brandon Lamm, featuring the traditional sounds of the holiday season.

The community is welcome to this free concert.