Randolph County briefs: New Dollar General opens in Steeleville; weekend hike

<b>New Dollar General opens in Steeleville</b>

Dollar General's new store at 904 W. Broadway St. in Steeleville is now open. The recently relocated store will offer an expanded selection of fresh meats, fruits and vegetables in addition to Dollar General's traditional items.

"We are excited to provide Steeleville residents with our new DG Market format and look forward to welcoming customers to our recently relocated location," said Dan Nieser, senior vice president.

Schools, nonprofit organizations and libraries within a 15-mile radius of the store can apply for Dollar General Literacy Foundation grants. For more information about the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, visit dgliteracy.com.

<b>Thanksgiving Eve at Peace Lutheran</b>

Peace Lutheran Church in Steelville will host a Thanksgiving Eve Communion Service at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 24, at the church, 303 N. Mulberry St. The Rev. Matt Helfirch will deliver the sermon.

<b>Cap Thanksgiving weekend with hike</b>

The River-to-River Trail Society will hold its final hike of the season, Saturday, Nov. 27, at Wildcat Bluff, Little Black Slough, and Boss Island, in Johnson County. This free hike is of lesser to moderate difficulty, covering about six miles. The hike is intended for people in good health, who have done some walking. Hiking sticks and boots or sturdy shoes are recommended. Hikers should bring their own water and a snack. No dogs, please.

Hikers will meet at 10 a.m. at the parking area for Wildcat Bluff. To find it, turn west off Route 45 south of Vienna, Illinois, onto Ballowe Church Road. Continue to the intersection with Hawkins Road and then turn west onto Hawkins Road. Continue to Wildcat Bluff Road, turn left (south), and continue to the parking area. For information or directions, call (618) 926-3250.

<b>Free Elks children's orthopedic clinic</b>

The South District Elks Lodges and Illinois Elks Children's Care Corporation are sponsoring a free children's orthopedic assessment clinic from 2-4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 19, at Marshall Browning Hospital, 900 N. Washington St., Du Quoin. Dr. Alan Froehling from Mount Vernon will see patients; appointments are required. Sign up at (800) 272-0074. The Elks will provide financial assistance for children needing further treatment or specialty equipment when the family lacks sufficient resources to do so.