The 618 Now

In this, our final episode, we recap nearly 5 years of podcasting on The 618 Now! We have thoroughly enjoyed being your go-to source for what's happening right now in OFallon and Shiloh! We feel so grateful to have had some of the most loyal listeners (Ryan, Becky, Leah, Dan, Linda, Judy and her boys! just to name a few) who contributed to the over 51,000 downloads. Thank you for being part of our...

In this episode, we talk about the economic lifecycle in O'Fallon- how various sources of revenue impact property taxes and services offered within the city. All of this leading up to the kick off of the budget season in Q1 2026 (for a May 1, 2026 fiscal start). On the calendar: Tues, Nov 11 @ 11am Veterans' Day ceremony @ First Baptist Church Tues, Nov 11 @ 2pm VFW's Veterans' Day Parade Thurs No...

In this episode, we share about the CEO program that's already having a huge impact on OTHS students. Seventy percent of CEO graduates say they can see themselves remaining in their communities and making a difference. We talk about what the day in the life of a CEO student looks like! Plus, it's FALL! And the community calendar is PACKED and we couldn't love it anymore!  On the calendar: Sat, Oct...

In this episode, we share why there are 10,000 people coming into OFallon on Sept 13th- and it's not for sports! We also share about the Chamber's upcoming Learn Local class that's accepting applications.  On the calendar: Friday, 9/5- Sat 9/6 Shiloh's Annual Homecoming Friday, 9/5 @ 6pm Movie in the Park Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Friday, 9/5 4-8pm Donation drop off for the OTHS Band Boosters Yard Sale...

In today's episode, we review some of the developments going up around town. Part of that is driven by Scott AFB- here's a recent study about the Economic Impact of SAFB (commissioned by The Leadership Council of Southwestern IL).  On the calendar: Sat, Aug 2 8am-noon Vine Street Market at OFallon Station Sat, Aug 9th 8am-noon Watermelon Festival at Vine Street Market Wed, August 13th- 6pm Music i...

In this episode, we talk about Unplug IL day - but more interestingly, how recent studies are suggesting that technology overuse may actually be affecting our individual identities and sense of self. This episode spurred our discussion and led us to believe that Unplug days are important!  On the calendar: Sat, July 12 8am-noon Vine Street Market @ OFallon Station Sat, July 12 8am Jenn Mueller I R...

In this episode, we discuss the $108 million OFallon city budget which began May 1st, 2025. Fun fact- the city, county, state and Federal governments all have 4 different fiscal years- so that makes budgeting even more fun!  On the calendar: Sat, June 28 8am-noon Vine Street Market at OFallon Station Sat, June 28 9am-noon US Citizenship Preparation Class at the OFallon Public Library Sat, June 28t...

In this episode, we talk about two markers of business growth within the community, licenses and building permits issued. We also share information about the upcoming Metro East Start Up Challenge where businesses can compete for up to $28,000 in cash and prizes. There's a Kick-Off event happening June 27th from 12-1pm at OFallon City Hall. Applications open June 15th.  On the calendar: Sat, May 3...

In this episode, we share about OFallon-Shiloh EMS and their critical role within our community. You won't believe how many calls for service they respond to in a year! Their upcoming Open House is May 22 from 5-9pm.

One hundred years ago, a local newspaper owner invited a group of residents to get together and dedicate themselves to helping others in the community. That single act of service has impacted OFallon in unimaginable ways over the last century. Join us as we honor OFallon Rotary's 100th anniversary to "service above self."  On the calendar: Sat, May 17th @ 5:30pm Rotary Club of OFallon's 100th Anni...

In this week's episode, we talk about cool things happening at the high school thanks to the OTHS Endowment Fund . They support educators and students in creative ways... enhancing the classroom experience. Their once-a-year golf fundraiser is coming up on Friday, May 2nd.  On the calendar:  April 24-April 28 Library's annual book sale during library hours Friday, May 2nd 5pm OTHS Endowment Fund G...

In this episode, we talk about Learn Local , a new program offered by the Chamber which teaches people about all the things that build and contribute to our community. If your business depends on being a resource for others, consider applying to Learn Local. Also, shoutout to the O'Fallon Woman's Club who raised $15,000 during their recent Empty Bowl Lunch! We also celebrated Thrivent Financial wh...

In today's episode, Jonathan joins Jessica to talk about how the enhancements to the community park are wrapping up and should be available for public use this summer! That also lead us to interviewing E'Miyah and Jalan, two incredibly talented student musicians who are performing in the upcoming production of HADESTOWN: TEEN EDITION (by Anais Mitchell). Performances are April 4-6; tickets can be...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – Village of Shiloh Mayor As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon-Shiloh informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Julia Warchol-Black,...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – Village of Shiloh Trustee As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon-Shiloh informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Matthew Wilke, Can...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – Village of Shiloh Trustee As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon-Shiloh informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Jason Holzum, Cand...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – Village of Shiloh Mayor As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon-Shiloh informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Bob Weilmuenster, Ca...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – Village of Shiloh Trustee As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon-Shiloh informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Russell McCullough...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – O’Fallon City Council Ward 3 As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon-Shiloh informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Roy Carney, Can...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – O’Fallon City Council Ward 3 As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon-Shiloh informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Vern Malare, Ca...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – O’Fallon City Treasurer  As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon-Shiloh informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Ron Zelms, Candidat...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – O’Fallon City Treasurer  As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon-Shiloh informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Dave Hursey, Candid...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – O’Fallon City Clerk As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Jerry Mouser, Candidate for O’F...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – O’Fallon City Clerk As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Caroline Malare, Candidate for...

618Now Podcast: Candidate Forum – O’Fallon District 90 School Board As part of our commitment to keeping O’Fallon-Shiloh informed, The 618Now Podcast is hosting a Candidate Forum featuring those running for contested elected positions. This special episode provides voters with a closer look at each candidate’s qualifications, priorities, and vision for the role.  Listen now to hear from Laura Van...