BCJ-01-21-2016

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“PRSRT.STD.” US POSTAGE PAID NO. 486 PRINCETON, IL 61356 SHAW MEDIA

Thursday, January 21, 2016

Vol. 10 No. 26

Bleed for those in need David Boylan of Princeton donated a pint of his blood during a recent Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center’s blood drive, which was hosted by the Princeton Public Library.

While blood donations are always in high demand during the holiday season, blood centers across the nation are hoping people will continue to donate regularly throughout the new year. People can donate a pint of whole blood every eight weeks, or approximately six times a year.

There are some weight requirements as well as health issues, which could prohibit you from donating blood, but all blood collection drives will be able to advise you if you are eligible to donate.

IV Scene photo/Dave Cook

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2 • Thursday, January 21, 2016

Illinois Valley Scene

Lodge wins Couples Choice Award for third time Honor determined by couples who had their wedding at Starved Rock

UTICA — For the third year in a row, Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center received the WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award for 2016.

This honor was determined by reviews from couples who chose to have their dream wedding at Starved Rock Lodge.

This award places the Lodge among the top 5 percent of wedding professionals nationwide.

Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center was the site of 136 weddings in 2015. Some of the weddings took place outdoors at the Sunrise Shelter which overlooks Starved Rock and other ceremonies were held in the historic Great Hall of the 1930s era stone-andlog Lodge which was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Receptions

took place in the adjacent Starved Rock Room.

“It’s the combination of an extraordinary venue paired with excellent customer service from our staff that makes us such a successful venue” said Sales Director Jenny Roulston.

Hundreds of couples attended Starved Rock Lodge’s annual Romance in the Park Bridal Expo held Jan. 3.

“The coming year looks like many more will say ‘I do’ to a dream wedding at Starved Rock, and we can’t wait to help them celebrate one of the happiest days of their lives,” added Roulston.

To learn more about weddings at Starved Rock Lodge, go to www. starvedrocklodge.com or call the Lodge’s Sales Department at 815-220-7333.

Better Business Bureau’s Top 10 scams of 2015 ROCKFORD — The Top 10 scams of 2015 impacting consumers range from taxes and credit cards to home improvement and computers.

Common to all of these scams reported to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) was the fact that theft is at the core of every one.

Scammers wanted to steal either money or personal identity information. What varied was the way they attempted their thefts.

“Throughout the year, the BBB warns consumers and businesses of various scam attempts,” explains Dennis Horton, director of the Rockford Regional Office of the Better Business Bureau. “Now, when we compile all of these actions, it is shocking to see how this thievery targets virtually every aspect of how we live and do business. We should realize scammers are nothing but thieves.”

The Top 10 scams of 2015 are: 1. Tax Scam: You receive a phone call from someone who says they are with the IRS. They claim you owe money in back taxes and will be arrested or face legal consequences if you do not pay (usually by wire or prepaid debit card). The caller ID is spoofed to appear to be a government agency or the police.

2. Tech Support Scam: You are contacted by “technicians” claiming to have detected a virus or security threat on your computer, and for a fee, can log in and correct the problem remotely. These callers are actually hackers trying to steal money or sensitive computer passwords and/or damage computers with malicious software.

3. Lottery/Sweepstakes/Prizes Scam: You receive a call, letter or email claiming you’ve won some type of prize. It may involve a lottery or a sweepstakes. In order to receive the prize, you are instructed to send a fee to cover expenses associated with delivery, processing or insurance. The prize is not real; you should never have to pay money to claim a prize you have won.

4. Advance Fee Loan Scam: While searching for loan information, you see an enticing ad and click through to the website. You fill out an application and soon receive an email or phone call advising that you are approved for the loan, but you must first send a processing fee, security deposit or insurance. You pay the “fee,” but never see the loan.

5. Fake Check/Money Order Scam: This can happen any time someone is paying you for goods or services (even when you are selling something online).

You receive a check in the mail that is larger than the amount owed, and you are asked to deposit the check and wire the difference. The check is a fake, and when it bounces, you’re out the money.

6. Debt Collection Scam: You receive a phone call from someone claiming you have an unpaid debt.

You are threatened with garnishments, lawsuits, even jail time if you don’t pay right now. The scammer will often use caller ID spoofing and pretend to be a government agency or law enforcement in order to further invoke fear.

7. Credit Card Scam: The scammer pretends to be from your bank or credit card issuer, and they claim that you are now eligible for a lower interest rate, or that they need to verify a recent transaction. The consumer provides the scammer with their credit card number and security code to “verify” their identity.

8. Home Improvement Scams: These can be as varied as the areas around your home that need fixing.

Typically, the scammers are not established business-

Photo contributed

Starved Rock Lodge employees are (from left) Amber Edgcomb (sales assistant), Jenny Roulston (sales director), Mitch Wagner (general manager), Tiffany Sigala (sales consultant) and Margie VandeWyngaerde (sales consultant) displaying the Couples Choice Award won by the lodge for the third time.

es in the area but still claim to be working on nearby homes. Often they attempt to have you pay a significant amount of money upfront. And then they never show up again as promised. You have lost the money and there’s no way to contact them.

9. Government Grant Scam: You receive a phone call, email or letter informing you that you’ve qualified for a government grant. In order to receive the grant, however, you are instructed to send money as a processing or delivery fee, usually by wire transfer or prepaid debit card.

10. Work from Home Scam: While looking for a job online, you answer an ad for making big bucks while working from home. The job may be stuffing envelopes, posting advertisements or shipping packages.

They often request an advance fee for their information and materials but no real opportunity to make money exists. You could also have your identity stolen when you fill out the employment forms, or even end up handling stolen merchandise.

“These scams continue because they are successful enough to make it worthwhile for these thieves to keep trying to con people out of money,” says Horton. “There is a science to scams, and it may surprise you to know that scammers use many of the same techniques as legitimate sales professionals. The difference, of course, is that their “product” is illegal and could cost you a fortune.”

Here are the tactics that scammers use to draw you in: Establishing a connection: The scammer builds rapport and a relationship with you. This can be faceto-face, online or by telephone. Rapport is particularly important in home improvement scams, investment scam and online romance scams.

Source credibility: Scammers use techniques to make themselves look legitimate, such as fake websites, social media posts or hacked emails that come from a friend’s account. Most email phishing scams spoof real companies, and many scammers pretend to be a trusted business or government agency in order to add credibility.

Playing on emotions: Scammers rely on emotion to get you to make a quick decision before you have time to think about it. An emergency situation or a limited time offer is usually their methodology. They count on emotional rather than rational decision-making.

Horton noted despite these techniques that scammers use, consumers can protect themselves by remembering these basic steps: • Don’t be pressured into making fast decisions.

• Take time to research the organization. Check them out on bbb.org, search online, etc.

• Never provide your personal information (address, date of birth, banking information, ID numbers) to people you do not know.

• Don’t click on links from unsolicited email or text messages.

• If you are unsure about a call or email that claims to be from your bank, utility company, etc., call the business directly using the number on your bill or credit card.

• Never send money by wire transfer or prepaid debit card to someone you don’t know or haven’t met in person.

• Never send money for an emergency situation unless you can verify the emergency.

For more information on scams, visit www.bbb.org/ chicago.

Skoog invites residents to nominate businesses for ‘Good Neighbor’ Award SPRING VALLEY— To recognize businesses that work to improve their communities, state Rep. Andy Skoog, D-Spring Valley, is accepting nominations for his “Good Neighbor” Business of the Month Award.

“Our region is full of good business owners that put people to work and invest in our community,” Skoog said. “Businesses that care and donate money or time to help their neighbors are a part of what makes our towns great, and I think we should recognize these community leaders.”

Skoog’s “Good Neighbor” Business of the Month Award will be a given to a local business that is working to improve their areas and help those in need.

Nomination forms can be picked up and returned to Skoog constituent service office, located at 221 E. St. Paul St. in Spring Valley.

Nominations can also be submitted to repskoog@ gmail.com or through a message sent to Skoog’s Facebook page, facebook. com/repskoog.

“Many businesses work every day to serve the communities that support them, and this award is a small gesture to show them that we appreciate their commitment to our neighbors,” Skoog said. “If you know of an area business that is going above and beyond to help their neighbors, stop by and nominate them for this award and help recognize them for their dedication to the community.”

Skoog represents the 76th District which includes all or portions of Bureau, LaSalle, Livingston and Putnam Counties. The first “Good Neighbor” Business of the Month Award will be given in February.

QCSO/WVIK Signature Series III: Horn Trios continues Brahms’ refrain

ROCK ISLAND —Kick off the new year musically by attending a collection of three trios for French horn, violin and piano including the Brahms Horn trio that inspired so many others. The trio will feature the Quad Cities own local, celebrated musicians – Quad Cities Symphony Orchestra (QCSO) Principal Horn Marc Zyla, QCSO Concertmaster and Signature Series Artistic Director Naha Greenholtz, and Marian Lee, the pianist featured in the QCSO’s popular “Masterworks III: Winter Fun” this past December and St. Ambrose University piano professor.

“Literally my first conversation with Naha Greenholtz after she became QCSO Concertmaster was, ‘We should do Brahms together,’” shared Marc Zyla, QCSO principal horn. She agreed, and the rest is history.

“What’s especially notable about featuring this piece for me was the continuation of a thematic Brahms thread woven this season,” continued Naha, “I love the collaboration,” stated Marian Lee. “The Brahms’ piece is difficult. so it’s not often presented, and that makes it special.”

While Signature Series III finishes with Brahms, it also features this unusual instrumental combination in powerful pieces

by Nicolas Duvernoy and Carl Reinecke.

QCSO/WVIK Signature Series III: Horn Trios is Sunday, Jan. 24, at 2 p.m. in Wallenberg Hall on the Augustana College campus. Tickets are $25, adults, and $10, students.

A $2 fee is added to all single tickets.

More information and tickets for performances and events are available at www.qcso.org or by calling 563-322-QCSO (7276).

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Thursday, January 21, 2016 • 3

Illinois Valley Scene

Dixon Quarter Mania to support Dixon Rural Fire Department PRINCETON — Saturday, Jan. 23, 10 a.m., Wellness Journey group will meet.

Saturday, Jan. 23, 1:30 p.m., wellness support group will meet.

Monday, Jan. 25, 6:30 p.m., Monday Movie: This movie fantasy is about a scrawny bookkeeper with a nagging wife.

Tuesday, Jan. 26, 10:30 a.m., youth services story time and craft. Patrons will make dragons for the Chinese New Year.

Tuesday, Jan. 26, 6:30 p.m., Chinese New Year celebration and dragon/lion dance.

TISKILWA — Every Thursday at 9:30 a.m., the library will host a senior fitness class. Participants will focus on balance, endurance, muscular strength, mental clarity and socialization.

Every Thursday at 5:30 p.m., the library will have yoga class, where participants will enjoy camaraderie with others and be challenged mentally and physically.

Also, the February library board meeting has been changed to Monday, Feb. 8, at 4:30 p.m.

BUREAU — The Leepertown Township Public Library

is open from 2 to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday; and from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

The library has computers for patron usage, as well as copier, scanning and fax services. Call 815-659-3283 for information. (The fax number is the same as the phone number).

PERU — Did you resolve to relax? Improve your diet?

The Peru Library helps you keep those resolutions with two new programs. Color Me Calm is the library’s new monthly program. Participants meet to enjoy a peaceful time coloring – letting cares and worries slide away. Color Me Calm meets the second Tuesday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon.

Tasty Tuesdays, a three-part series on diet fads, portion distortion and label reading to improve eating habits is taught by Susan Glassman of the University of Illinois Extension. Her next session on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., will discuss portion distortion. She will also be at the library on Tuesday, March 8, to discuss label readings.

In order to have sufficient food for Tasty Tuesdays participants, registration is requested. Call 815-224-0889 to register for this free class.

Little Free Library kits PRINCETON — The five Little Free Library kits recently offered to groups, businesses and individuals by the Princeton Public Library are already spoken for, but if others are still interested in participating, there may be another opportunity soon.

To get your name on the waiting list, contact the library at 815-875-1331.

The kits contain basic building materials, but do not

come with instructions, trim, Plexiglas or other finishing materials. The Little Free Library website notes that basic carpentry experience is recommended for those wishing to construct their kit.

Once built, libraries can be given back to the Princeton Public Library for final design work, or can be completed and donated back to the library to be displayed in the spring.

Out and about ...

Sauk Valley Bridal Fair Does your business sell products and services for weddings, receptions, catering, flowers and more?

If so, the Sauk Valley Bridal Fair is a perfect venue to showcase your products or service.

Sauk Valley Media is accepting vendor booths for the 2016 Sauk Valley Bridal Fair on Sunday, Feb. 7, 2016, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Sauk Valley Community College, located on Route 2 between Sterling and Dixon.

Bridal Fair 2016 is considered the area’s largest bridal fair and is an event designed for brides to help plan their perfect wedding, all in one stop. The bridal fair will feature exhibits from cakes to tuxedos and everything in between. All brides who register could win fabulous prizes including $75, $150 and $300 certificates to use at the vendor of their choice plus more than 30 other door prizes from participating vendors.

For information about becoming a vendor, call Jennifer Heintzelman at 815-625-3600, ext. 5630, or email marketing@saukvalley.com.

Young Leader curling outing scheduled

The Bureau County Farm Bureau Young Leader Committee will take part in the annual District 4 YL Curling outing on Friday, Feb. 5, from 7 to 10 p.m.

The location for the event will be the Waltham Curling Club in Triumph. Everyone who participates in the curling activity will have to sign a liability waiver before they can play. All are asked to wear clean tennis shoes. The cost is $20 per person to curl.

If you are a Farm Bureau member between the ages of 18-35 and would like to take part in this event, call the Bureau County Farm Bureau office at 815-875-6468 before noon on Wednesday, Feb. 3, to register.

DIXON — Dixon Quarter Mania announced the Friday, Feb. 12, event at the Dixon Elks Lodge, 1279 Franklin Grove Road, Dixon, will support the Dixon Rural Fire Department. The doors open to the public at 5 p.m., with dinner available and the event takes place from 7 to 9 p.m.

The Dixon Rural Fire Department help many in the community when there is any type of emergency.

The workers spend countless hours away from their families to help others with their lives and families, and this benefit is a way as a community to come forward and show them how much they are appreciated for what they do to help many others in any way that they can. All proceeds are donated to the Dixon Rural Fire Department to help them with whatever they are in need of.

Dixon Quarter Mania is a group of direct sales leaders, crafters and local businesses who hold regular Quarter Mania events in Dixon. The event was the first of its kind in the Sauk Valley and is innovative and fun. Each Quarter Mania event supports a charitable organization.

A Quarter Mania event is a cross between an auction, a raffle and a vendor show all wrapped into one.

New and discontinued items from local vendors will be auctioned off for one to four quarters per item. Vendors will also

have cash and carry items available for sale and food and beverages are available for purchase. There will also be a 50/50 raffle with tickets available for purchase the evening of the event, donated to Dixon Rural Fire Department. Ticket prices are: one ticket for $1, six tickets for $5 and 15 tickets for $10. More information can be found online at www. dixonquartermania.com.

“We are proud to support Dixon Rural Fire Department,” said event coordinator Ashley Anderson, director of Dixon Quarter Mania. “This is a special Quarter Mania featuring several silent auction items and a variety of exciting vendors from the area.”

At Quarter Mania, each item up for bid will be displayed for all guests to see. The auctioneer then gives a brief description, retail value and how many quarters you will need to bid. Guests will give their bid (quarters) and hold up their numbered paddle.

The numbered paddles sell for: one paddle for $5, two paddles for $8 and three paddles for $10.

If you have more than one paddle, you may place a bid for each one. When all bids are collected, a number will be randomly selected. If the number on the paddle matches the number drawn, the guest wins that item. If a matching numbered paddle is not held up, the auctioneer will try again, until there is a winner.

Auction Calendar Jan. 27 – Allen Pork Farms, tractors, combine and heads, machinery and equipment, 10 a.m., 401 W. Main St. (The Shed), Wyanet, Rediger Auction Service, auctioneers.

Jan. 29 – Patricia M. Cotter estate, farmland, 10 a.m., sale held at Wheatland Township Building (Lone Tree School House), Bradford, Tumbleson Auction Co., auctioneers.

Feb. 5 – LaVerne McCabe estate, farmland, 10 a.m., sale held at Neponset Community Building, Neponset, Rediger Auction Service, auctioneers.

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4 • Thursday, January 21, 2016

Illinois Valley Scene

Casting call announced for Stage 212’s ‘All the King’s Women’ LASALLE — Director Ellen Marincic has announced auditions for Stage 212’s spring 2016 production, “All the King’s Women,” Luigi Jannuzzi’s touching, bring-the-family comedy, will be at 7 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 5, and Saturday, Feb. 6, at the theater, 700 First St. in LaSalle.

A fast-paced series of five comedic plays and three monologues, “All the King’s Women” tells story of Elvis Presley through the eyes of several women — some enthralled, some

appalled, but all obsessed.

Marincic will be casting five women and one man aged 25 and up. Those auditioning will be asked to read selected passages from the script. Perusal scripts are available by contacting the Stage 212 ticket office at 815-224-3025. Familiarity with the script is not required to audition.

“All the King’s Women” will be presented April 15-17 and April 22-24.

Stage 212 auditions are open to all regardless of prior theatrical experience.

River Valley Players announce ‘Somethings Afoot’ auditions HENRY — River Valley Players auditions for the musical comedy “Something’s Afoot” will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 24, and 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26, at St. John’s Community Center, 1301 Second St. in Henry.

In this spoof of classic Agatha Christie detective stories, 10 unfortunate souls are invited for “a marvelous weekend in the country air” at a secluded English estate, but find quite a different scenario when they’re stranded during a thunderstorm.

When someone is found murdered, it’s a frantic race against the clock for the guests to escape the strange happening within the mansion.

As tensions rise, each guest becomes a suspect.

Who will eventually be identified as the devious culprit to the mayhem that lurks in every room?

Set in 1935 with a rousing vaudeville-style score, this suspenseful satire is a smashing good time – and far funnier than foul play should be. Audiences just might die laughing.

Roles are available for six men and four women (one of the male roles, Dr. Grayburn, may be cast with a female): • Lettie: The saucy maid.

Mezzo Soprano/Alto.

• Flint: The caretaker.

Tenor.

• Clive: The fussy butler.

Baritone.

• Hope Langdon: The ingénue. Soprano.

• Dr. Grayburn: The family doctor. Tenor.

• Nigel Rancour: The disreputable black-sheep nephew. Tenor.

• Lady Grace Manley-Prowe: The grande dame. Mezzo Soprano.

• Colonel Gillweather: The old Army man. Bass.

• Miss Tweed: The tweedy, elderly amateur

detective. Mezzo Soprano.

• Geoffrey: The young uninvited guest. Tenor.

Also needed are five to six stage hands to create the magic involving the intricate set and special effects needed for the show. Although the cast is limited to the characters listed, there is opportunity to be involved with making the show come to life.

It is only necessary to attend one of the auditions. Newcomers and theatre veterans alike are welcome and encouraged to audition.

Prepare 16 to 32 bars of a musical theatre song that best shows your range.

Bring sheet music in your key, as an accompanist will be provided. If you do not have sheet music, a selection of music books of familiar songs will be available for you to use.

Be prepared to read from the script and demonstrate simple stage movement.

The characters have accents ranging from cockney to upper class British accents. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes that allow freedom of movement.

If you are unable to attend the scheduled auditions, contact Charlotte Balensiefen by calling 309364-3563.

Copies of the script are available at the Henry Public Library and may be checked out for one week.

Scripts must be returned before auditions.

Rehearsals will be held at St. John’s Community Theatre and will usually be Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 2 to 4 p.m. Bring to auditions a list of potential conflicts with scheduled rehearsals.

There will be five performances — April 16, 17, 22, 23 and 24.

Community coffee in Sheffield SHEFFIELD — The First United Church of Christ will host its monthly community coffee from 8 to 11 a.m.

Saturday, Feb. 6, in the UCC Parish Hall. The event will feature fresh basked cinnamon rolls. Everyone is invited to “bring a friend and stay a minute, stay a morning.”

Chicago Rhythm and Blues Kings will roll into Princeton on Jan. 23 PRINCETON — The Chicago Rhythm and Blues Kings will return to Princeton for a onenight only show at the Grace Performing Arts Center (Festival 56), 316 S. Main St., Princeton, at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23. They last played in Princeton over Homestead weekend in 2009.

The band has been blasting out their own soul-steeped brand of R&B and blues since March of 1993. Tenor saxman Terry Ogolini and trumpeter Don Tenuto comprise one of Chicago’s tightest horn sections, while bassist Bob Halaj and guitarist David Mick continue to cook up sizzling rhythms, anchored by drummer

CWU will host annual meeting PRINCETON — Church Women United will host its annual meeting Saturday, Jan. 30, at Hampshire Colony in Princeton. The event will begin at noon with a salad potluck luncheon.

All area women are invited to join other women of Bureau County at this event. You do not need to be a part of Church Women United to attend.

An organization or two the group donates to will be asked to share their mission. A memorial service will also be held for all the women lost in 2015. The event will also include food, fun and fellowship.

Participants are asked to bring a salad and the host church will provide the rest. There is no need to RSVP but call Sue Scruggs at 815-875-1446 if you need a ride or if you have questions.

Willie Hayes.

Joining the band for the Princeton performance will be a frequent guest, the legendary saxophonist and vocalist, Gene “Daddy G” Barge. Barge’s career as a performer, producer and arranger encompasses more than 50 years of Chicago blues history.

Tickets for the show are $18 per person in advance or $20 at the door. They

can be obtained online at www.festival56.com, by leaving a phone message with the box office (815879-5656, ext. 11), or at the Grace the night of the performance. The box office will open at 6:30 p.m. and doors to the show at 7 p.m.

There is no reserved seating. The Grace holds approximately 150 persons. All prior sold tickets will be honored in limiting

ticket sales at the door, if necessary. Beer and wine will be available for purchase in the Grace’s Lobby Bar. The Grace Performing Arts Center is completely accessible and ample free parking is available nearby. For more information about the show, call the Grace box office at 815879-5656, ext. 11, or Steve Gunning at 815-875-4706.

ATTENTION READERS: Sauk Valley Media and Bureau County Republican are publishing a

QUILTED BARN BOOK in 2016 If you would like your barn to be included in this publication, please submit a photo, along with some basic information to: Sauk Valley Media, Quilted Barn Book 3200 E. Lincolnway, Sterling, IL 61081 or Bureau County Republican, Quilted Barn Book 800 Ace Rd., Princeton, IL 61356

Owner(s) of barn: __________________________________ Address of barn: ___________________________________ Information about barn: _____________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________

5

Thursday, January 21, 2016 • 5

Illinois Valley Scene

You’re busy. It’s cold outside. The last thing you want to do is go home from a long day at work and prepare a meal for you and your family. Time to get out your slow-cooker and have dinner waiting for you when you get home. Try one or a couple of these recipes to get your taste buds popping, while keeping preparation and clean up to a minimum.

Crockpot Lasagna 1 pound ground beef 3 cups beef broth 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced 1 tablespoon dried parsley 1 tablespoon dried basil 1/2 cup chopped onion 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes 1 6-ounce can tomato paste 1 cup V8 (or any vegetable drink) 2 cups uncooked shell pasta 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup of water Optional: Shredded cheese for topping First, mix together the can of tomatoes and tomato paste in crockpot. Next, add broth, beef, garlic, parsley, basil, onion, V8 and salt/pepper. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

When 30 minutes are left of cook time, add in the 1 cup of water and noodles. Stir to combine. Put lid back on and continue cooking for 30 minutes.

Note: If you like your soup to have more liquid, feel free to add some extra broth and or water when you add the noodles.

Slow Cooker Pot Roast 1 4- to 5-pound beef roast, any kind 1 1 1/4-ounce package brown gravy mix, dry 1 1 1/4-ounce package dried Italian salad dressing mix 1 1 1/4-ounce package ranch dressing mix, dry 1⁄2 cup water Place beef roast in crockpot or slow cooker. Mix the dried mixes together in a bowl and sprinkle over the roast. Pour the water around the roast. Cook on low for 7 to 9 hours.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts 2 10-1/2-ounce cans condensed cream of chicken soup 1 10-1/2-ounce can condensed cheddar cheese soup 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder Salt and pepper (optional) Place chicken breasts in the crockpot or slow cooker. Mix the undiluted soups together with the garlic powder and pour over chicken. Cover and cook on low 6 to 8 hours or until chicken is tender. Serve the chicken with the sauce leftover in the slow cooker with the over rice, mashed potatoes or noodles.

Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni 4 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces 2 1⁄2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese or 10 ounces sharp cheddar cheese 3 eggs, beaten 1⁄2 cup sour cream 1 10-3/4-ounce can condensed cheddar cheese soup 1⁄2 teaspoon salt 1 cup whole milk 1⁄2 teaspoon dry mustard 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper Boil the macaroni in a 2-quart saucepan in plenty of water until tender, about 7 minutes. Drain. In a medium sauce-

pan, mix butter and cheese. Stir until the cheese melts. In a slow cooker, combine cheese/butter mixture and add the eggs, sour cream, soup, salt, milk, mustard and pepper and stir well. Then add drained macaroni and stir again. Cook for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes 10-12 small baking potatoes Aluminum foil Stab potatoes with fork. Wrap each in foil. Fill slow cooker with potatoes. Cover and cook on high 2 to 4-1/2 hours. Do not add water. Cooking time depends on how big your potatoes are. Use your best judgment. It doesn’t hurt to cook them for the 4 hours. For large potatoes, cooked five to six on low for 8 to 10 hours.

Slow Cooker Omelet Casserole

New Potatoes, Green Beans and Ham

1 pound sausage, cooked and crumbled 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded 1⁄2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded 1⁄2 cup sun-dried tomato, julienne cut 6 green onions, sliced 12 eggs 1⁄2 cup milk (or half and half) Salt and pepper, to taste 1 pinch cayenne pepper Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or use a slow cooker liner. Layer half of the potatoes on the bottom of slow cooker, half of the sausage, half the Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, half the sun-dried tomatoes and green onion.

Repeat with the remaining half of the same ingredients.

Beat eggs, milk, salt and pepper and cayenne in large bowl with a wire whisk until well blended. Pour evenly over potato-sausage mixture. Cook on low setting for 8 hours or on high setting for 4 hours or until eggs are set.

8 red potatoes, scrubbed and halved 1 16-ounce package frozen green beans (or fresh) 1 large onion, cut into about eight wedges 2 cups ham, cut into bite-sized pieces Vegetable broth or chicken broth Salt and pepper This can be cooked all day in a slow cooker or even in a Dutch oven on top of the stove. Add all the ingredients and cover, cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. If cooking on the stove you may need more broth, but the slow cooker makes broth as it cooks, so you shouldn’t need any more.

Use your own judgment on the amount of broth. Serve with fresh, sliced tomatoes and corn bread for a great Southern meal.

Slow Cooker Taco Soup 1 16-ounce can pinto beans 1 16-ounce can white beans or 1 16-ounce can kidney beans 1 11-ounce can niblet corn 1 11-ounce can Rotel tomatoes and green chilies 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes 1 4-ounce can diced green chilies 1 1 1/4-ounce envelope taco seasoning mix 1 1-ounce envelope Hidden Valley Original Ranch Dressing and Seasoning Mix 1 pound shredded chicken, ground beef or any meat Cook meat and drain. Shred if needed.

Add all ingredients to slow cooker. Do not drain cans. Stir. Cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours. Keep on low until serving to keep hot. Garnish with sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions or tortilla chips.

www.illinoisvalleyhomeshow.com

1221 North Main Street, Princeton, IL

815-875-1221

$89,000 - North Main Street Business District - Commercial Building for Sale! Business space on 1st floor plus 2 income producing updated apartments upstairs. #09112514

Slow Cooker Cola Pork Roast 3 pounds pork shoulder butt 1 12-ounce can Pepsi or Coke 1 10 3/4-ounce can cream of mushroom soup 1/2 package onion soup mix Place roast in slow cooker. Mix soup mix with soup. Add cola to soup mixture and pour over roast. Cook on high for 4 to 5 hours. When done, remove roast and thicken juices with cornstarch for a wonderful gravy.

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup 8 cups water or 8 cups canned chicken broth 1 cup carrot, cut into 1/4-inch slices 1 cup celery, cut into 1/4-inch slices 1 cup onion, chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 2 bay leaves 1⁄2 teaspoon dried thyme 4 teaspoons salt (to taste) 1⁄2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, to taste 1 3 1/2-pound roasting chicken 3 cups wide egg noodles, uncooked In 4 1/2- to 6-quart slow-cooker bowl, combine water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt and pepper. Place whole chicken on top of vegetables. Cover slow cooker with lid and cook as manufacturer directs on low setting 8 to 10 hours or on high 4 to 5 hours. Transfer chicken to cutting board.

Discard bay leaves. Add noodles to slow cooker; cover with lid and cook (on low or high) 20 minutes. While noodles cook, remove and discard skin, fat and bones from chicken; shred meat. Skim fat from soup and discard. Return chicken to soup to serve.

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Front & side patios. Kitchen appliances stay. #09110242

$79,900 - 3 Unit Apartment $129,800 - Walnut Country Home!

Price Reduced! $115,000 Amazing 4-5 BR home on Princeton! On edge of town, Building for Sale! All apartments large lot, woodburning FP in rented! Great location - close to 2.23 acres! Oversized 3-4 car garage. Gorgeous woodwork family room (20’ x 11’), 3 BR, downtown w/ restaurants and CA, slab basement, living room shopping. Laundromat 1 block & french doors. Furnace 2014.

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$105,000 Country Home! $110,000 - Princeton! $105,000 - Princeton!

Beautiful residence w/ updates: Spacious 5 BR, massive wrap Single family home or 2 unit heater/air, stove, refrig, bath around covered porch, large apartment! Original hardwood back yard, 35’ deep heated floors, 2 newer furnaces/AC. 2 car ceramic floors, garage door, roof. Backyard privacy fence. garage. Newer siding, windows, garage. (1 BR on main & 3 BR 2.5 car garage. #09060477 roof, furnace & CA. #09065607 up). Newer HWH’s. #08936078

6 Sports

6 • Thursday, January 21, 2016

Illinois Valley Scene

Senior spotlight Maty Nowakowski • St. Bede Academy Name: Maty Nowakowski School: St. Bede Academy.

Date/place of birth: April 9, 1998; Illinois Valley Community Hospital in Peru.

Hometown: LaSalle.

Family: Rick Nowakowski (Dad), Ami Dean (Mom), Abbey Nowakowski (sister) and Ellyn Nowakowski (younger sister).

Sports: Tennis, basketball, softball.

Favorite sport and why: Softball, because it teaches me more than the game of softball.

Favorite food and where to get it: Pizza, anywhere. All pizza is good.

Likes: Spending time with family, making people laugh.

Dislikes: Fake people.

Person with the greatest influence on my athletic career (and why): Keith Kamphuis because he also taught me more than the game itself. He taught me that failing is okay if you learn from it.

Person with the greatest influence in my life (and why): My parents, they are always encouraging me and they always have my back. They are my biggest fans.

Who would be your dream celebrity prom date: Luke Bryan.

Name three historic figures you’d like to meet (and why): George Washington, he was the first president; Marilyn Monroe, because she had an influence on women and she’s awesome; and Martin Luther King, he had an impact on life.

If stranded on a deserted island, I would have my: Family.

The last song I listened to: I don’t remember, but I’m sure it was a country song.

People would be surprised to know: I look very intimidating, but I’m really not.

I stay home to watch: Any Disney movie.

When I need luck for a big game, I: Call my dad.

The funniest person I’ve ever met (and why): My dad, he just has a good sense of sarcasm.

What they’ll say about me at school after I graduate: I’m not sure, but I hope it’s something good.

Most embarrassing moment: When I was going out to catch and forgot to put my chest protector on.

Most unforgettable moment: When my travel softball team got fifth in nationals.

Ultimate sports fantasy: Playing softball in college.

What I would like to do in life: Major in either early childhood education or special education.

Three words that best describe myself: Outgoing, funny, caring.

Here’s a look at the upcoming area sports slate: Thursday, Jan. 21 Girls basketball: BV at Morrison, Hall at Riverdale, Princeton at Newman, St. Bede at Fulton, 7:30 p.m., L/O at Little Ten Tournament, tba.

Volleyball: Princeton Logan at Mendota Northbrook, 4:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 22 Boys basketball: BV at Sherrard, Erie at Hall, St. Bede at Amboy, Marquette at DePue, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 23 Boys basketball: Princeton at Erie, 6:30 p.m., BV at Eastland, Hall at PC, 7:30 p.m.

Volleyball: Princeton Logan at PC Puma Classic, tba.

Monday, Jan. 25 Boys basketball: Tri-County Conference Tournament at Granville, tba.

Girls basketball: BV at St. Bede, Hall at Princeton, L/O at Henry, 7:30 p.m.

NEED EXTRA CASH??

Ask About Our $25 Sign-On Bonus.

Tuesday, Jan. 26 Boys basketball: Prophetstown at BV, Orion at Hall, Riverdale at Princeton, St. Bede at Kewanee, 7:30 p.m., Tri-County Conference Tournament at Granville, tba.

Girls basketball: Princeton at Indian Creek, 7 p.m.

Volleyball: Streator Northlawn at Princeton Logan, 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 27 Boys basketball: St. Bede at L-P, 7:30 p.m., Tri-County Conference Tournament at Granville, tba.

Thursday, Jan. 28 Boys basketball: Tri-County Conference Tournament at Granville, tba.

Girls basketball: Hall at

BV, Newman at St. Bede, Somonauk at L/O, 7:30 p.m.

Volleyball: Princeton Logan at Ottawa, 4:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 29 Boys basketball: Hall at Sherrard, Princeton at Kewanee, Erie at Hall, 7:30 p.m.; Tri-County Conference Tournament at Granville, tba.

Saturday, Jan. 30 Boys basketball: Princeton at Erie, 6:30 p.m., BV at Eastland, Hall at PC, 7:30 p.m. DePue at Tri-County Conference Tournament, tba.

Girls basketball: Mendota at Hall, 1 p.m., Princeton at Rockford Christian Life, 1:30 p.m., BV at ROWVA, 6:30 p.m.

Routes are available delivering the Bureau County Republican in Cherry, Ladd, Manlius, Princeton, Sheffield & Spring Valley.

Delivery days are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings by 7:00 am.

No Collecting Involved.

For more information, please call Tom Long, District Manager (815) 875-4461 Ext. 6350

800 Ace Road • Princeton, IL 61356 • 815-875-4461

7 Sports

Thursday, January 21, 2016 • 7

Illinois Valley Scene

Youth basketball PRINCETON — The Princeton Park District is offering a winter youth basketball league at the Bureau County Metro Center Feb. 13 through March 19 for grades 1-6. Games are on Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m. Deadline for sign up is Feb. 1. For more information, call 815-8720840.

IVCC softball clinic OGLESBY— Illinois Valley Community College’s softball team will host the 17th annual IVCC Eagles Softball Clinic Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 13 and 14, in IVCC’s gym. Coaches and current players will offer instruction in hitting, bunting, fielding, throwing, base running and communication.

Participants in grades 2-4 will meet from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Sunday. Grades 5-8 will meet from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and 1:30 to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Cost of the clinic is $30 per player and includes five hours of instruction and a clinic T-shirt. If a player can only come one day, the cost is $20.

All players should bring a glove and tennis shoes (no spikes or cleats allowed). If a player has her own bat, she is allowed to

bring it. Please make sure all items have the player’s name on them for identification purposes.

To register, contact softball coach Cory Tomasson at 815224-0509 or the athletic department at 815-224-0472.

St. Bede spring training clinic PERU — The St. Bede Bruins baseball team will hold its Spring Training Baseball Clinic in March. Session 1 for ages 6-8 will be from 8:30 am. to noon, Saturday, March 5. Session II for ages 9-11 will be from 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 6. Session III for ages 12-14 will be from 8:30 am. to noon, Saturday, March 12.

Instructors for the clinic will be St. Bede coaches and players, headed by varsity coach Bill Booker. Participants will learn baseball fundamentals for the upcoming season. Sessions will focus on hitting, field, throwing, bunting, pitch and catching skills.

Early registration postmarked

by Feb. 25 are $30 for first child and $25 for each additional sibling. Fees are $35 after Feb. 25 or at the door.

A check made payable to St. Bede Baseball, made be sent to St. Bede Academy, att. Bill

Booker, 24 W. US HWY, Peru, IL. 61354.

Young Leader Curling Outing TRIUMPH — The Bureau County Farm Bureau Young Leader Committee will take part in the annual District 4 YL Curling outing from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5, at the Waltham Curling Club in Triumph.

All participants in the curling activity will have to sign a liability waiver before they can play.

All are asked to wear clean tennis shoes. The cost is $20 per person to curl.

If you are a Farm Bureau member between the ages of 18-35 and would like to take part in this event, call the Bureau County Farm Bureau office at 815-8756468 before noon on Wednesday, Feb. 3, to register. Bring a friend.

Princeton Shootout PRINCETON — The Princeton High School Athletic Boosters will be hosting the 23rd annual Princeton Boys Shootout Feb. 27-28 at Princeton High School and Logan Junior High School.

Thirty-two teams from Bureau County, Quad Cities, Rockford, western suburbs and the

Peoria areas will be represented. Teams will compete in the Grade 7-8 brackets Feb. 27 and in the Grade 5-6 brackets Feb. 28. Tournament games will be scheduled between 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. throughout both days. In addition, a 3-point shot and Hot Shot competition will also be held.

The public is encouraged to attend the tournament with one gate fee for all locations each day. Tournament T-shirts can be purchased at all admission gates. Entry deadline is Feb. 1.

For more information, call or text 815-876-7021.

Swap Meet Jan. 31 at the Sterling Moose, 2601 E. Lincoln Way, Sterling. The doors will open to the public from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Admission is $5 for adults and 12 and under free.

All makes and models of motorcycles. New and used parts. Leathers and biker clothes with motorcycle decor for your man cave. Breakfast and lunch will be available and refreshments all day.

If you wish to be a vendor, spaces are $25. Call to reserve a space. Set up starts at 7 a.m. For more information, call 815-7163588 or 815-875-1386.

Indoor golf

Coaches Clinic

PRINCETON — Indoor golf is underway at the Bureau County Metro Center, using the OptiShot golf simulator, which allows golfers to practice their swings while playing some of the world’s best courses. You may call for a tee time or to join a league.

For more information, call Nick Davis at 815-872-0840.

Motorcycle Swap Meet STERLING — The ABATE of Il, Twin Rivers Chapter will host its ninth annual Motorcycle

Manlius — The 2016 Bureau County Track and Cross Country Coaches Clinic will be Feb. 6 at Bureau Valley High School in Manlius. Clinic cost is $75 if mailed by Jan. 28, and $95 at the door or mailed later. The clinic starts at 9 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m.

Any updated information will be posted at www.bureauvalleytrack.net. For more information, contact Dale Donner at 309-8952037 or by email at daledonner@ yahoo.com.

••• Items for the Happenings section can be emailed to sports@ bcrnews.com.

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8 • Thursday, January 21, 2016

Illinois Valley Scene

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