The Forgottonia Project » Podcast: Recent Episodes
Joe Brewer
Welcome to Forgottonia, a high school classroom project that seeks to honor our rich history of rural America and examine the social problems we currently face. This project is produced by students and led by History teacher, Joe Brewer, at Cuba H.S. located in Fulton County, 1 of 16 rural counties in the western part of the state. Our title, Forgottonia, refers to a tongue-in-cheek movement in the 1970s.
"Rural towns may be losing population, but there’s a beauty of history there. If you take the time to look, there are hidden gems everywhere." Bob Chikos On this episode Host Joey Brewer visits with Bob Chikos—an educator, map enthusiast, and Teach Plus alum—who recently completed a remarkable personal quest: visiting all 102 counties in …
Continue reading "Every County in Illinois: One Teacher’s Journey Across the Prairie State"
"Play activates neural pathways—it helps children develop emotionally, socially, physically, and cognitively. It’s not a luxury, it’s a necessity." Lisa Hood, Director of Research & Evaluation at Regional Office of Education #17 On this episode Host Joey Brewer chats with Lisa Hood and Paul Larson to explore the impact of play-based learning. The conversation touches …
Continue reading "The Power of Play: How Rural Schools Can Lead the Way in Play-Based Learning, with Lisa Hood and Paul Larson"
“Forgottonia’s story reminds us that small towns hold big ideas. When we trust students to lead, create, and connect, we don't just prepare them for the real world — we invite them to change it.” On This Episode What happens when students stop completing assignments for a grade and start creating work for the world? …
Continue reading "Classroom Sandboxing in Rural Forgottonia"
"Dialogue isn’t about changing opinions; it’s about understanding each other.” Jared Morris, Education Specialist & Instructional Coach, Office of the Undersecretary for Education, Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C. On This Episode We're excited to share a conversation led by two Beardstown High School freshmen, Vraj and Genesis, as they interview Jared Moris and Ali McKersie, the …
Continue reading "Fostering Dialogue and Understanding: A Student-Led Conversation with the Smithsonian’s DiDVE Program"
"Rural schools may lack big-city resources, but they have something just as powerful—strong community ties, flexibility to innovate, and educators who wear many hats to make learning meaningful." On This Episode We sit down with John Glasgow, Program Director of the Rural CTE Project (in partnership with The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools …
Continue reading "Rural Schools & the Future of Career and Technical Education: A Conversation with John Glasgow, Program Director – Rural IL CTE Project"
"Our job is to find out what the needs and barriers are around early childhood care and education… and help align goals so we’re all working on the same thing." Shannon McKee, Family & Community Engagement Specialist, Birth to Five Illinois: Region 26 On This Episode We had the privilege of speaking with Paul Larson, …
Continue reading "Improving Early Childhood Education in Forgottonia with Birth to Five Illinois: Region 26"
"How we define rural is very personal and why we care about it is often for very personal reasons too." On This Episode We sit down with Dr. Pamela Riney-Kehrberg, a historian whose work brings the complex and often misunderstood story of rural America to life. Dr. Riney-Kehrberg helps us unpack two chapters from the …
Continue reading "Exploring Rural Identity and History with Dr. Pamela Riney-Kehrberg"
“Once upon a time, Chicago and downstate belonged to the same economy…Factories downstate made things Chicago needed. That’s gone away. What’s replaced it in Chicago is the global economy. What economic vitality there is in Illinois is in Chicago. The economic fortunes of Chicago and downstate are diverging.” Richard C. Longworth, "Caught in the Middle: …
Continue reading "Illinois: A State Apart – Episode #4 – The State of Chicago (1925)"
"In Forgottonia, political concerns run deep and personal. They’re about survival, identity, and fairness. Whether it’s fixing roads, supporting farmers, or amplifying rural voices, these issues remind us why local perspectives matter in national debates." Objectives In this episode, we explore the unprecedented political shift in western Illinois, a region known as Forgottonia, where all …
Continue reading "Election Results in Forgottonia: Trump’s Unprecedented Appeal"
"Title IX wasn't just about athletics, it was about education. At that time, we had only a few female leaders. We needed a level playing field, everyone needed a fair shake." Robbi Ball Rhonda Garrett and Robbi Ball talk to CHS student athletes Kayleigh Harr (class of '24) and Kacie White (class of '27) On …
Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia: Title IX and the First Female Athletes at Cuba High School"
"Vulnerable populations were already feeling the pressure” in an economy that saw a shrinking of middle-wage jobs... the middle class has begun to disappear, and fewer workers are able to meet their needs & the needs of their families with wages earned from 40 hours of work each week." -Illinois Future of Work Task Force, …
Continue reading "Forgottonia at Work: Future Trends and Community Impact"
"Since 2005, the U.S. has lost more than ¼ of its newspapers and is on track to lose ⅓ by 2025." ON THIS EPISODE On this episode we are pleased to share some interview sound bites from students in our current events class at Cuba H.S. Their work is featured on our inaugural monthly newsletter …
Continue reading "Forgottonia Gazette: Rural Youth Reporting, Issue #1 (Podcast Edition)"
"More & more people are “ravenous for admiration” and have “little or no commitment to others... people have “illusions about their importance & fail to recognize their own shortcomings?” Christopher Lasch, The Culture of Narcissism, 1978 ON THIS EPISODE We dive deep into research about self-absorption and its impact on community, inspired by Dr. John …
Continue reading "The Spread of Self-Absorption in Our Time: How Narcissism is Disrupting Our Sense of Community"
"Work ethic is instilled in us and sticks with us throughout our lives. This county also comes together when something happens. We’ve suffered through a lot of loss as a county but we always persevere." Patrick O'Brian, Fulton County Clerk and Recorder ON THIS EPISODE Should our local government have political parties? When and where …
Continue reading "Behind the Ballot: Navigating Our Complex Local Government with Fulton County Clerk and Recorder Patrick O’Brian"
"I thought about leaving and then life happened and I stayed and I'm glad I did. I raised my kids here. I still teach here and I wouldn't want it any other way." Nicole Thum Mrs. Nicole Thum shows Cooper and Sam a picture of her elementary class at the Smithfield Red Brick School ON …
Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia: The Red Brick School in Smithfield, IL – Part 3, Cooper & Sam Interview Nicole Thum"
"We need to become informed activists. This Forgottonia movement lasted only a short time. That won't work. It will take years to implement change and we must be willing to expend that." Bill Edley ON THIS EPISODE As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School students Cadie & Courtney Churchill continue …
Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia: Western Illinois Then, Now, and Beyond – Cadie and Courtney Churchill’s Interview with Former Congressman Bill Edley (Part 2)"
"The concept of Forgottonia was that this region was neglected by urban centers, but that wasn't really the problem. The problem was we don't engage at the community level like we should. Bill Edley ON THIS EPISODE As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School students Cadie & Courtney Churchill continue …
Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia: Western Illinois Then, Now, and Beyond – Cadie and Courtney Churchill’s Interview with Former Congressman Bill Edley (Part 1)"
"Mining played a really big part in our town. At one time our population was 2,500, but now it's down to 1,200. This population is the biggest legacy of mining. Most people we know who live in our community have ancestors who worked in the mine." Dick Mowery, local mining enthusiast and former CHS educator …
Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia: Was Cuba the Strip-Mining Capital of the World? Braxton Humphrey’s Interview with local mining enthusiast and Retired Teacher Dick Mowery"
“When small towns lose, we lose a piece of ourselves.” Marcus Boyer ON THIS EPISODE As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School juniors Cooper Leonard and Sam Thum explore the history and impact of the old Red Brick School in Smithfield, Illinois. Like many small towns, the school in Smithfield …
Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia: The Red Brick School in Smithfield, IL – Part 2, Cooper & Sam Interview Marcus Boyer"
"I couldn't wait to leave, but then I couldn't wait to come home." Lori Noe ON THIS EPISODE As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School juniors Cooper Leonard and Sam Thum explore the history and impact of the old Red Brick School in Smithfield, Illinois. Like many small towns, the …
Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia: The Red Brick School in Smithfield, IL – Part 1, Cooper & Sam Interview Lori Noe"
"Social media has opened up a whole new world for LGBTQ + youth. I didn't have any of that growing up in the 80s and 90s." Libby Lane, Deputy Director of the Rural Assembly ON THIS EPISODE Cuba High School sophomore Amber Cannon shares their interview with Libby Lane. Libby is the Deputy Director of …
Continue reading "Pride in the Countryside: Amber Cannon’s Interview with Libby Lane, Deputy Director of the Rural Assembly"
"I wanted to learn more about the Amish community to better understand them. I feel like this is important because they are also members of our community." Ella Bass, Cuba H.S. Senior Class '23 Amish owned & operated Heartland Bulk Foods located on the west end of Cuba, Illinois...one of our town's best kept secrets! …
Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia: What Insights Can We Gain from the Amish Residents in Our Small Community? Ella Bass Interviews an Amish Mother & Daughter"
"I urge all patriots to sustain the Government in its efforts to vindicate the Constitution." Congressman John A. Logan, a southern IL politician and Civil War General Episode #3 - The Illinois Confederates (1861) In the tumultuous times of the American Civil War, Illinois found itself at a crossroads. Political heavyweights like John A. Logan …
Continue reading "Illinois: A State Apart – Episode #3 – The Illinois Confederates (1861)"
"Three fourths of the inhabitants of Illinois proper are a totally different sort of people. They have numerical superiority. The most unreasonable and ill-grounded prejudices against us exist among them. We are the powerless and our voice is if not unheard certainly unheeded in the legislative councils of the State. Whether designedly or not almost …
Continue reading "Illinois: A State Apart – Episode #2 – The Rockford Delegation (1846)"
"If her commerce is to be confined to that great artery of communication, the Mississippi, which washes her entire border, and to its chief tributary on the south, the Ohio, there is a possibility that her commercial relations with the south may become so closely connected…. In the event of an attempted dismemberment of the …
Continue reading "Illinois: A State Apart – Episode #1 – Nathaniel Pope (1818)"
"We discover who we are face to face and side by side with other people, in work, love, and learning." Robert Bellah ON THIS EPISODE This episode explores the power of SOCIAL Connections and its impact on community. Our post-pandemic world has revealed the damage that isolation has on each of us. Are we social … Continue reading "Are We Social Animals? Exploring the Power of Social Connections"
How do we follow our dreams and be all that we can be without adequately fulfilling our civic responsibilities to the community as a whole? "The unique spiritual mission of America” demanded a positive, welcoming approach to immigrants." Mary Antin, The Promised Land ON THIS EPISODE This episode explores whether or not American society is … Continue reading "Is American Society “Coming Apart”"
"Instead of volunteering and getting-to-know each other, community-building citizens who once typified this nation…Americans have become privatized, atomized, focused within their property lines." Cited by John Hallwas, On Community: A Crucial Issue, a Small Town, and a Writer's Experience ON THIS EPISODE Our topic today is entitled “A Nation of Strangers.” This episode serves as … Continue reading "Are We a Nation of Strangers Living Amidst a Fading Sense of Place?"
"The best ideas are going to come from your generation...it's time to be innovative to address these issues. Action starts with you." Tara Rumler, The 1024 Movement ON THIS EPISODE We are pleased to share this interview with Tara Rumler of the 1024 Movement. Tara is a native of Forgottonia whose work has brought her … Continue reading "How the 1024 Movement is Helping Youth Prioritize their Mental Health"
"We live in an unprecedented era, when community is under siege from a variety of forces, & the negative ramifications of that are continually mounting." John Hallwas, On Community: A Crucial Issue, a Small Town, and a Writer's Experience ON THIS EPISODE We begin our series on the book "On Community: A Crucial Issue, a … Continue reading "10 Obstacles Facing Community Builders: An Introduction to our “On Community” Series"
ON THIS EPISODE This Dime Novel Desperados MINI-POD profiles a Hollywood Western & primary sources that Dr. Hallwas used to write the book. We recommend first listening to the episode this MINI-POD accompanies: Chapter 4: Law & Order and Prison Life HOLLYWOOD WESTERN “High Noon” (1952) starring Gary Cooper, Grace Kelly, & Lloyd Bridges. QUESTIONS … Continue reading "DND Minipod – Chapter 4: Hollywood Westerns & Primary Sources"
On this episode, we’re thrilled to share an update about New Philadelphia with Marynel Corton, the executive director of the New Philadelphia Museum. Last year we interviewed Marynel about New Philadelphia, one of the most important historical communities in the U.S. and located right here in rural Forgottonia (Pike County to be exact; Marynel lives … Continue reading "New Philadelphia Earns National Park Status: An Update with Marynel Corton"
ON THIS EPISODE As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School junior Ella Bass hosts this episode about the 1992 Native American protests that took place at Dickson Mounds Museum in Lewistown, Illinois. Dickson Mounds Museum in Lewiston, IL harbors the history of indigenous people who lived in this region as … Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia – The Protests at Dickson Mounds by Ella Bass"
ON THIS EPISODE Continuing our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School junior Jayson Stead once again takes the microphone to explore Fulton County during the Civil War. In this episode, Jayson shares his conversation with Dr. Tim Roberts about his Civil War book This Infernal War: The Civil War Letters of William & … Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia – How Fulton County Was Divided During the Civil War: Jayson Stead’s Interview with Tim Roberts, WIU History Professor & author of “This Infernal War”"
ON THIS EPISODE As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School junior Jayson Stead interviews local Lincoln enthusiast Rick Klinedinst, about Fulton County during the Civil War. In his day job, Mr. Klinedinst serves as the president of the MidAmerica National Bank. He is also passionate about history and has even … Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia – Fulton County, Abe Lincoln, and the Civil War: Jayson Stead’s Interview with Rick Klinedinst"
"They needed a spokesperson. Neal was ideal because he was a great speaker, he was highly intelligent...and he was kind of a ham actually. He loved to talk in front of people." -John Marshall (friend of Neal Gam, Forgottonia's Governor) ON THIS EPISODE As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School … Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia – Getting to Know Forgottonia’s Governor: Cadie & Courtney Churchill Interview with John Marshall"
ON THIS EPISODE "The railroads depended on population and product. The population and product depended on shipping. The railroads became the most valuable method of shipping, particularly for landlocked areas like Illinois." -Bill Leitze As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School senior Gavin Johnson sits down with local Railroad enthusiast, … Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia – Railroads in Western Illinois: Gavin Johnson’s Interview with Local Railroad Enthusiast Bill Leitze"
ON THIS EPISODE "The two most dangerous occupations were agricultural, and mining. I was raised on a farm and worked on the mines." David Lidwell As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School junior Braxton Humphrey interviews former miner David Lidwell, about his knowledge and experience working in the mining industry. … Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia – Mining in Western Illinois: Braxton Humphrey’s Interview with David Lidwell"
"The community did the best they could with that school, rather than let it sit vacant." Daryle Coleman ON THIS EPISODE As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School sophomore Cooper Leonard interviews Retired principal, Daryle Coleman, about her experience with the closure of the Red Brick School in Smithfield, Illinois. … Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia – Experiencing a Rural School Closure: Cooper Leonard’s Interview with Retired Principal Daryle Coleman"
"Don't always look into famous people, look into people that helped a person become so well known." Amber Cannon ON THIS EPISODE As part of our Oral History in Forgottonia series, Cuba High School freshman Amber Cannon hosts this episode about Dr. Francis Regnier; the forgotten hero of New Salem. Most folks know a lot … Continue reading "Oral History of Forgottonia – Dr. Francis Regnier: The Forgotten Hero of New Salem, by Amber Cannon"
ON THIS EPISODE We continue our examination of the book “Dime Novel Desperados: The Notorious Maxwell Brothers” by Dr. John Hallwas. This episode provides an overview of Chapter 4 – “Law & Order and Prison Life.” If you recall our last chapter, Ed Maxwell has been arrested after committing his 1st crime robbing a clothing … Continue reading "Dime Novel Desperados – Chapter 4: Law & Order and Prison Life"
ON THIS EPISODE We conclude our series about the social & cultural history of witchcraft based on the book “Witchcraft in Illinois” by folklorist Michael Kleen (check out Michael’s bio below). Please note, the primary purpose of this series is to apply historical skills to this topic and share some interesting info that we find … Continue reading "Witchcraft in Forgottonia – Episode 6: The Strange Tale of James Spiva"
ON THIS EPISODE We continue our series about the social & cultural history of witchcraft based on the book “Witchcraft in Illinois” by folklorist Michael Kleen (check out Michael’s bio below). Please note, this series definitely does not intend to endorse a belief in magic or the occult. Our primary purpose is to simply apply … Continue reading "Witchcraft in Forgottonia – Episode 5: The Scotch-Irish in Illinois, 1818-1885"
ON THIS EPISODE We are excited to share our interview with author and folklorist Michael Kleen. Shout out to Cuba High School students Jayson Stead, Cadie Churchill, and Lilly Markley who did a fantastic job conducting this interview! Students asked Michael about misconceptions people often have about this topic, the difference between folklore and history, … Continue reading "Witchcraft in Forgottonia – Episode 4: Interview with author Michael Kleen"
ON THIS EPISODE We continue our series about the social & cultural history of witchcraft based on the book “Witchcraft in Illinois” by folklorist Michael Kleen (check out Michael’s bio below). Please note, this series definitely does not intend to endorse a belief in magic or the occult. Our primary purpose is to simply apply … Continue reading "Witchcraft in Forgottonia – Episode 3: African American Folk Magic in Illinois, 1701-1800"
ON THIS EPISODE We continue our series about the social & cultural history of witchcraft based on the book "Witchcraft in Illinois" by folklorist Michael Kleen (check out Michael's bio below). Please note, this series definitely does not intend to endorse a belief in magic or the occult. Our primary purpose is to simply apply … Continue reading "Witchcraft in Forgottonia – Episode 2: The Influence of England & Colonial America"
ON THIS EPISODE On this edition of the Forgottonia Project, we’re sharing our 1st episode in a series on the social & cultural history of witchcraft in Illinois. Please note, this series definitely does not intend to endorse a belief in magic or the occult. Our primary purpose is to simply apply some historical skills … Continue reading "Witchcraft in Forgottonia – Episode 1: How do we know what we know?"
ON THIS EPISODE This Dime Novel Desperados MINI-POD profiles a Hollywood Western & primary sources that Dr. Hallwas used to write the book. We recommend first listening to the episode this MINI-POD accompanies: Chapter 3: The Maxwells in McDonough County HOLLYWOOD WESTERN “Rio Bravo” (1959) starring John Wayne, Dean Martin, & Ricky Nelson QUESTIONS TO … Continue reading "DND MINI-POD – Chapter 3: Hollywood Westerns & Primary Sources"
ON THIS EPISODE We continue our examination of the book “Dime Novel Desperados: The Notorious Maxwell Brothers” by Dr. John Hallwas. This episode provides an overview of Chapter 3 – “The Maxwells in McDonough County.” Our last chapter profiled a difficult childhood for the boys in nearby Fulton County. While we remain in Western IL, … Continue reading "Dime Novel Desperados – Chapter 3: The Maxwells in McDonough County"
ON THIS EPISODE We continue our examination of the book “Dime Novel Desperados: The Notorious Maxwell Brothers” by Dr. John Hallwas. This episode provides an overview of Chapter 2 – “The Maxwells in Troubled Fulton County.” Shout out to CHS student Andrew Christian for helping with this episode. The MINI-POD for this episode (which is … Continue reading "Dime Novel Desperados – Chapter 2: The Maxwells in Troubled Fulton County"
ON THIS EPISODE This Dime Novel Desperados MINI-POD profiles a Hollywood Western & primary source that Dr. Hallwas used to write the book. We recommend first listening to the episode this MINI-POD accompanies: Chapter 1: The Maxwell Family Moves West CHS student Andrew Christian interviews musician & local historian Chris Vallillo HOLLYWOOD WESTERN “Open Range” (2003) … Continue reading "DND MINI-POD – Chapter 1: Hollywood Westerns & Primary Sources, with musician & local historian Chris Vallillo"
ON THIS EPISODE We continue our examination of the book “Dime Novel Desperados: The Notorious Maxwell Brothers” by Dr. John Hallwas. This episode provides an overview of Chapter 1 - "The Maxwell Family Moves West." Shout out to CHS students Garret Fawcett & Andrew Christian for helping with this episode. Be sure to check out … Continue reading "Dime Novel Desperados – Chapter 1: The Maxwell Family Moves West"
DND MINI-POD - Introduction: Hollywood Westerns & Primary Sources ON THIS EPISODE This Dime Novel Desperados MINI-POD profiles a Hollywood Western & primary source that Dr. Hallwas used to write the book. We recommend first listening to the episode this MINI-POD accompanies: Ep 0 – Welcome to the World of the Maxwell Brothers: An Introduction to … Continue reading "DND MINI-POD – Introduction: Hollywood Westerns & Primary Sources"
ON THIS EPISODE We're pleased to begin a multi-part examination of one of the greatest history books about our Forgottonia region; the western (or anti-western) book called “Dime Novel Desperados: The Notorious Maxwell Brothers” by Dr. John Hallwas. Shout out to CHS students Audrey Cozart & Aaron Zimmerman for helping with this episode. Be sure … Continue reading "Dime Novel Desperados – Introduction – Welcome to the World of the Maxwell Brothers: An Introduction to DND w/author Dr. John Halwas "
On this episode of the Forgottonia Project, we summarize what the 2020 census reveals about Forgottonia. This episode serves as the podcast edition of our previous post analyzing census data: Forgottonia Profile: The 2020 Census. CHS students helped create a mega document that summarizes important demographic, social, and economic patterns that persist throughout Forgottonia (check … Continue reading "S4, E5 – Forgottonia and the 2020 Census: What the Numbers Reveal about Population, Education, Poverty, Race, and more"
The purpose of this mini pod is to briefly discuss some upcoming plans & projects we’re hoping to do with this classroom podcast & webpage in 2022. #1 - NEW STRUCTURE: This year the Forgottonia Project will include... MINI PODS - Ranging from a number of topics, quick announcements, brief interviews documenting Forgottonia history, music, … Continue reading "S4, E4 – Mini-Pod: Upcoming Plans for the Forgottonia Project in 2022"
On this edition of the Forgottonia Podcast, our students at Cuba H.S. completed a book study of the graphic novel “Hypercapitalism” and then had the privilege of interviewing the author of this book Tim Kasser. Our students ask Tim... What hypercapitalism is & why he wanted to write a graphic novel about itHow spending on … Continue reading "Season 4, Episode 3 – Hypercapitalism: What is it and Why Rural Americans Should be Concerned, With author and psychologist Tim Kasser"
In this episode, we’re thrilled to share our conversation with Marynel Corton, the executive director of the New Philadelphia Museum. New Philadelphia is one of the most important historical communities in the U.S. and it’s located right here in rural Forgottonia! Although rural, western IL is sometimes known for being…well FORGOTTEN… there are a … Continue reading "Season 4, Episode 2 – The New Philadelphia Story, with Marynel Corton"
Have you ever wondered who lived a long time ago in the very place you’re living right now? Did you know there are incredible ancient cities that existed right here in IL? And that people have been trying to find out for years what happened to these cities. On this episode of the Forgottonia Project, … Continue reading "Season 4, Episode 1 – The Mystery of Cahokia Mounds with Archaeologist Bill Iseminger"
In this episode, Cuba High School's Ashley Howerter shares her conversation with Bob Schnarr, the chief director of the Cass-Putnam rescue squad. While many first responder teams across Forgottonia struggle to fund and staff programs, the majority of the Cass-Putnam rescue squad is made up of high school students. This is the first program of its kind in the state!
We are pleased to share our latest podcast interview with local musician, Chris Vallillo. Chris is a singer/songwriter & folk musician who makes the people & places of “unmetropolitan” America come to life in song. Chris is also a fantastic local historian as many of his songs reflect the unique rural Midwestern culture that we've … Continue reading "Season 3, Episode 5 – The Music of Forgottonia: How Local Musician Chris Vallillo Captures the Sounds of the Rural Midwest"
One this episode of the Forgottonia Project we are pleased to share a very informative conversation we had recently with Western Illinois University Sociology Instructor, Alyssa Hall Anderson. In this interview, Alyssa discusses her latest blog post for the Forgottonia Project entitled "Sociology and Self-Care." She provides insights regarding sociological thinking as a form of self-care and shares her experience and interests with the subject of sociology.
On this edition of the Forgottonia podcast we’re sharing a conversation about mental health in rural America with our friend Lyndsey Larson, the manager of a local yoga studio in Canton, IL called “The Breathing Tree.” Lyndsey is also a native and recent returnee to Canton, IL where she lives with her husband and their surprise triplets!
On this edition of the Forgottonia Project, we try to deepen our understanding about the rural opioid epidemic that has plagued many of our communities in Forgottonia. To help us do this, we talked to local activist Sue Tisdale.
On this edition of the Forgottonia Project, we had the privilege of speaking with Mr. Matt Meacham, program manager and director of statewide engagement at the IL Humanities. We asked Matt what the humanities are and how they can help bridge our rural-urban divide. We hope you enjoy our conversation
On this episode of the Forgottonia Project, we conclude our conversation with Marion Cornelius about the incredible history of Camp Ellis, a massive WW2 Army camp that was located right here in rural Forgottonia.
On this episode of the Forgottonia Project, we are pleased to share our conversation with Marion Cornelius about the incredible history of Camp Ellis; a massive WW2 Army camp located in rural Forgottonia.
According to a study at Columbia University funded by the National Institute of Health, 4.5% of all deaths in the U.S. can be attributed to poverty (Link to research). And this was before the covid-19 outbreak! What is the cause of poverty? What does poverty look like in rural, western Illinois? What can we do to combat poverty? To help respond to these questions, we turned to Lt. Sarah B. Eddy of the Canton, IL Salvation Army.
Cuba High School senior Kaylann Beekman was recently selected to represent Illinois at the Rural Youth Assembly Summit in McAllen, Texas (*Note: The Summit was originally scheduled for April 2-5, but will be postponed for a later date). She is one of just 50 young adults, ages 16-24, selected across the nation to serve as a delegate. The Summit brings young people together to explore unique challenges facing rural youth, and identify creative solutions to address them.
On this episode, Chris Merrett from the Illinois Institute of Rural Affairs responds to questions formed from students at Cuba High School in Cuba, IL. These questions reflect a range of challenges facing small towns, not only in Cuba, but throughout Forgottonia. The essential questions our students asked Chris include the following:
We are beyond pleased to share this interview with our friend Chris Merrett from the IL Institute for Rural Affairs. Chris is the Director of the Institute, which is located on the campus of Western IL University in Macomb, IL. The institute oversees research, outreach, teaching, and policy development that is comprised of 20 community development faculty and professionals. He serves on the Governor’s Rural Affairs Council and is the Chairperson of Rural Partners, which has raised over $6 million in external grant funding to support community and economic development outreach and research. Chris has researched and edited books on the topics of cooperatives and community development, and has published a range of articles on topics such as value-added agriculture, rural land use, social justice, and rural community and economic development.
On this episode were fortunate to speak with some local entrepreneurs who not only started a new business in Macomb, IL, but they are kindred spirits because they named it “Forgottonia!” Sean West and his partners Scott and Susan Park of Forgottonia Brewing in Macomb, share their story on starting a business and how they are incorporating Forgottonia history. The essential question we asked is “What Does it Take to Run a Successful Business in Forgottonia?” We hope you enjoy this conversation and if you have any questions or feedback we’d love to hear from you by visiting our webpage Forgottonia project.com.
On this episode, we conclude our interview with Dr. James Loewen about his book "Sundown Towns: A Hidden Dimension of American Racism." We asked 2 essential questions: What is the legacy of Sundown Towns? Plus, how do you conduct research in your own town? Dr. Loewen is a talented author, historian, and sociologist. He is … Continue reading "S2 – Episode 02: Sundown Towns – What is the Legacy of Sundown Towns in Rural America?"
On the first episode of our second season, we were extremely fortunate to interview Dr. James Loewen about his book "Sundown Towns: A Hidden Dimension of American Racism." We asked the essential question: What are Sundown Towns? Dr. Loewen is a talented author, historian, and sociologist. He is best known for his 1995 book, … Continue reading "S2 – Episode 01: What Are Sundown Towns?"
On Wednesday May 2, we were pleased to welcome Dr. Tim Kasser to Cuba, IL to share his presentation titled "Media and Children's Well-Being" (The first 30 minutes are Tim's talk while the last 20 minutes Tim answers some questions from the audience). This presentation was part of our Screen Free Week Activities that took … Continue reading "S1 – Episode 13: Media and Children’s Well-Being – How is Screen Time Impacting Our Kids?"
On Thursday May 3, 2018 we enjoyed facilitating a conversation with parents about their experience with screens and kids. This event was part of our week-long Screen Free Week experiences at Cuba High School. Our parent panel consisted of Jackie Scharping, Samantha Gilham, Tiffany Clark, and Amy Willett. The panel was moderated by high school … Continue reading "S1 – Episode 12: Parent Panel on Technology – What Advice can Parents Offer about Raising Kids in the 21st Century?"
On Wednesday May 2, 2018 we enjoyed a conversation with students about their experience using technology. This event was part of our week-long Screen Free Week experiences at Cuba High School. Our panel consisted of about a dozen students in Cuba High School's Sociology class. The panel was moderated by Mr. Joe Brewer. Special thanks to … Continue reading "S1 – Episode 11: Student Panel on Technology – How are Young People Using Technology in the 21st Century?"
Listen in to part 2 of our conversation about race and rural America with Dr. Alphonso Simpson. In case you didn't hear part 1, you can check it out by clicking the link here. You can also listen to our class podcast by searching "Forgottonia Project" on iTunes or wherever you find podcasts. Also don't forget to check out some outstanding resources that Dr. Simpson shared with us which he uses in his classes at WIU. You can check them out by clicking the link here .
We're excited to share this outstanding conversation about race and rural America with Dr. Alphonso Simpson. Dr. Simpson is a professor of African American Studies at Western Illinois University and also serves as chair of the department of Liberal Arts and Sciences. He’s been teaching at WIU since 2000 and is the author of 3 … Continue reading "S1 – Episode 09: Conversations on Race and Rural America – How Do We Talk About Race in Rural America?"
We are pleased to share this podcast interview as two Cuba high school students, Brianna Gorsuch and Caitlin Patterson, interview with the recently retired Carol Davis over the gender gap and how it impacts Rural America; both in the past as well as the present. Carol shares her experience with gender inequality, gender stereotypes and … Continue reading "S1 – Episode 08: The Gender Gap – What are the Greatest Concerns for Young Women Growing Up in Rural America?"
The following is a summary of a panel discussion about poverty in Fulton County that took place March 23, 2017. The forum took place at the Canton Church of the Brethren and was moderated by Pastor Kevin Kessler. Panelists included Missy Kolowski of the Health and Wellness Clinic of Fulton County, Rolf Siversten Superintendent CUSD #66, Paster Monroe Bailey of the First Baptist Church, Brooke … Continue reading "S1 – Episode 07: Panel Discussion on Poverty in Rural America – How Do We Address the Stereotypes? Summary Report Part 5 of 5"
We previously spoke with Forgottonia native Dr. Trenton Ellis about job loss throughout rural America. In this interview Dr. Ellis mentioned factors like technology, globalization, and the lack of economic diversity as contributing to job loss. Since our talk with Dr. Ellis was so rich in material and we didn't want to depress you by … Continue reading "S1 – Episode 06: Education Puts Food on the Table: What Can We Do About Job Loss in Rural America?"
The following is a portion of the transcript from our interview with Tim Kasser about value pollution. On this edition we return to our conversation with Dr. Tim Kasser, a psychology professor at Knox College who is no stranger to rural living. We were extremely fortunate to speak with Dr. Kasser, he is the well-known … Continue reading "S1 – Episode 05: Value Pollution: Why Should We Ban Advertisements in School?"
We've explored a number of topics revolving around social problems we face in rural America, but just because we're studying problems in rural America doesn't mean everyone is miserable. Rural places are awesome places to live and there's endless amounts of great things going on. But here´s our essential question today - can one make … Continue reading "S1 – Episode 04: Well-Being: Are We Happier in a Small Town?"
From January 2016 to January 2017, the region known as Forgottonia lost approximately 2,775 jobs. To learn why, we sat down with Dr. Trenton Ellis, a rural sociologist from Black Hills St. University. Although he lives in Spearfish, South Dakota, Ellis is a native of Forgottonia growing up in Canton, IL and graduating from Spoon River College in 2005. After SRC, Ellis completed undergraduate and master’s degrees from Western Illinois University in Macomb. In 2009 he matriculated to South Dakota State University’s Department of Sociology and Rural Studies where he graduated with a PhD in sociology in 2015. In 2016 he was awarded an outstanding Teaching Award at BHSU.
On this episode we wanted to share a cool experience we recently had in our psychology class. We were visited by the lovely Mrs. Karen Hahn a social worker from Psychology Specialists in Canton, IL. Karen’s visit is definitely consistent with our objective to examine the social problems we face in our own context of rural America; specifically these 16 counties in western IL referred to by many as Forgottonia. In fact if we want firsthand insights of what exactly the issues are and what it takes to overcome them, I’m not sure there’s anybody better to talk to then a social worker like Karen.
The following is an excerpt from our initial episode about the Neil Gamm and the history of Forgottonia. Our guest for this episode was Mr. Larry Eskridge from the Canton Daily Ledger. Our essential questions ask "What was the Forgottonia movement about and how is it similar and different today?" ENJOY!