Sunflowers at Matthiessen State Park are in bloom

Public can visit and take photos but will be fined $195 for removing flowers

By DEREK BARICHELLO dbarichello@shawmedia.com

Matthiessen State Park’s annual burst of yellow is in bloom.

Where can I find the sunflowers?

The sunflowers, a popular photo op, are open to the public behind the airplane field at the river area entrance. Visitors from Route 178 should follow signs to the sunflower field after entering the river area entrance.

Can you pick sunflowers at Matthiessen State Park?

Park staff asks visitors to be

Local News Briefs

Putnam County Sheriff investigating $13K worth of tree damage in Hennepin

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and the village of Hennepin are investigating the destruction of trees along High Street that were planted in 2022.

Officials believe the incident occurred between July 3 and July 4 and the damage caused is in excess of $13,000.

Anyone with relevant information is encourage to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 815-925-7015 or Crime Stoppers at 800-939-6929 to remain anonymous.

Crime Stoppers may offer monetary rewards for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible for the crime.

The village of Hennepin also is offer- respectful of the flowers and to not remove them. Removing flowers is subject to a $195 fine. ing a $10,000 reward to anyone with information leading to the arrest and conviction of the responsible individual or individuals.

Why do they plant the sunflowers at Matthiessen State Park?

Sunflower seeds first were planted at the state park more than 25 years ago in an effort to attract doves for hunting season.

What time of year is best to see sunflower fields?

The flowers bloom through July, and by August, they begin to seed and wilt through early September, all while attracting pollinators and providing shade for deer, opossums and raccoons.

Along with many bumblebees, the fields have attracted photographers and tourists from all around the state.

–JayceEustice

Granville United Church of Christ to host vacation bible school

Granville United Church of Christ will hold vacation bible school from 6 to 8 p.m. July 24, 25 and 26 at the Shelter House located in Hopkins Park in Granville.

This year’s theme is “Food Fight” and the events will feature story time, crafts, games and refreshments each evening.

All are welcome to join. Call Pastor Ron at 815-339-2305 for additional information or for questions.

–ShawLocalNewsNetwork