By Carmen Ensinger
The Winchester Civic Group, via a letter to the city council, asked for a donation to help them complete the mural on the side of the Rural Cyclery building as well as begin other projects.
Winchester Mayor Rex McIntire read the letter from Civic Group President Jackie Kuchy.
I am reaching out on behalf of the Winchester Civic Gorup, a charitable 501c3 organization committed to beautifying and enhancing our community through various projects,” Kuchy said. “Our latest project, the ‘Grow Where You’re Planted’ mural’ aims to celebrate the rich agricultural heritage of Scott County, and we would be honored to have your support as a sponsor.”
According to Kuchy, the mural will be a vibrant tribute to the farmers, familities and traditions that have shaped the Winchester and Scott County community for generations.
It is located on the north wall of Rural Cyclery and the mural strives to capture the significant role farming plays in the community through a modernized “street art” approach. It will serve as both a piece of public art and a reminder of the vital role that agriculture plays in the lives of Scott County residents.
However, to do a project of this magnitude, the Civic Group needs the city’s support.
“Creating a mural of this scale requires a collaborative effort,” Kuchy said. “Our organization was successful in securing a grant from the Two Rivers Art Council for the design stage of this project, but we are seeking support for the next phase of the mural.”
Kuchy said the city’s sponsorship will directly contribute to the cost of materials, artist stipends and community engagement activities. In return, the Civic Group will proudly acknowledge the city’s support through inclusion in all promotional materials, press releases and social media campaigns related to the project.
“The Civic Group is grateful for all contributions made in support of this project,” Kuchy said. “Our goal is to raise $5,000 through this fundraising campaign, which we believe will enable us to successfully complete all phases of the mural. If we are fortunate enough to receive donations exceeding this amount the additional funds will be used to support the organizations future beautifications and improvement projects.”
According to Kuchy, the city’s support will help them create a lasting legacy that honors the community’s history and inspires future generations.
“We believe this mural will not only beautify our town, but also foster a sense of pride and connection among our residents,” Kuchy said.
Anyone who has any questions about making a donation or the sponsorship opportunities can contact the Civic Group at wincivicgroup@gmail.com or call Kuchy at 217-473-6672. Contributions can be dropped off at Rural Cyclery.
Mayor McIntire thought it was something the city should contribute to.
“Personally, I appreciate what the Civic Group has done for this city over these past few years,” he said. “It is amazing the work that they have done around town and that they continue to do so I think we should help them out.”
McIntire suggested making a $1,000 donation and said that the other council members could suggest a lesser amount or higher amount if they desired.
The council unanimously voted to give the Civic Group a donation of $1,000 towards the mural project.