MARK THIS DATE ON YOUR CALENDAR- THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 7:00 p.m. -FOR AN HISTORIC MEETING OF THE MCLEAN COUNTY BARN GROUP!!! The Bylaws Committee, chaired by Wally Yoder, will be presenting bylaws for an "official" organizational structure. The committee has been working with Attorney Tom Jennings for a number of months to create an official organization, which then will allow us to apply for a 501c3 tax exemption so that all donations, etc. may be tax deductible. Those present on February 12 will be asked to vote this document into existence as well as to approve a NEW NAME and elect an OFFICIAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS. Be present to become a CHARTER MEMBER. As always we will be meeting at the Extension Office at 402 N. Hershey Road, Bloomington, IL.

This and several other events at this meeting will occupy the evening so that we will not have a regular program until our next meeting. Following the bylaws action, Carolyn Loeb will give the awards to the winners of the Christmas Barn Decorating Contest. We will also get a report from the successful 2004 Barn Calendar sales, and remaining calendars maybe available at a reduced rate. Those interested in a special treat may want to stop by the IAA Credit Union, 808 IAA Drive, just east of the IAA building. Many of the pictures taken for the calendar are in a special display that is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, through Feb 28. We want to thank all those who made this major project success.

We are beginning to make plans for the 2004 Annual Barn Dance. A couple of locations are being looked at and if you have a suggestion, let us know. The organizing of McLean County Barn Photographs and Histories is still in process. If you have the history of any McLean County barn that we can add to the files, please bring it along, or send it to the Extension Office to the "attention of the barn group."

The National Barn Alliance is meeting Feb. 9-10 in Chicago at the Palmer House. There will be a variety of representatives from states around the country (especially the Midwest) who will report on activities and issues concerning barn preservation. The national association seeks to give a national presence to issues that can help with legislation, funding and education, as well as sources that assist in preservation of farm buildings and heritage. Several from McLean County are planning to attend on February 10. For more information, contact Ron Ropp (454-8534).

After the Illinois barn gathering in Bloomington last fall, a steering committee was formed to explore further meetings. This group is planning for a meeting in Springfield, likely May 1. The focus will be on "resources" for barn preservation and some of the "success stories" of projects in the state. Also, we will continue to explore the possibility of a state "organization" to strengthen efforts of counties now working alone. Springfield was chosen for this meeting with the hope of involving state agencies and leaders. It is likely that a Fall meeting will be held again in Bloomington. More information will be forthcoming.

Plan to attend the "official" organizational meeting of this exciting venture and become a CHARTER MEMBER. The bylaws committee has sought a great deal of input and expertise and will surprise you with the NEW NAME to become the official name of our barn group.

SEE YOU THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12 AT 7:00 p.m.