BCJ-12-01-2016

1

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

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Vol. 11 No. 19

Christmas trees galore The Prairie Arts Council’s Mini-Christmas Tree Festival continues at the Prairie Arts Center, located at 24 Park Ave. East in Princeton. The event opened Nov. 18 and continues through Dec. 4.

Featured at the Mini-Christmas Tree Festival are a host of individually designed and uniquely decorated Christmas trees by local artists. Beautifully decorated wreaths are also part of the display.

The Christmas Mini-Tree Festival, a fundraiser for Prairie Arts Center, has been held every Saturday and Sunday since Nov. 19. Event-goers can view all the trees/wreaths and submit a silent auction bid for those trees/wreaths they would like to take home with them. The final days to view and bid on the items will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4. The silent auction ends at 4 p.m. on Dec. 4.

Also this weekend at the Prairie Arts Center, the Christmas play, “A Winterhaven Christmas,” will be Dec. 2, 3, and 4.

Show times are 7 p.m. Dec. 2; 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 3; and 3 p.m. Dec. 4. For tickets, call 815-875-2787; tickets are $10.

The Prairie Arts Council is supported in part by grants from the Illinois Fine Arts Trust and the OmniArts. Check the Prairie Arts Council website for more details and information about other arts activities — prairiearts.org.

IVS photo/Becky Kramer

Visit Our Showroom!! Monday - Thursday 9am - 5pm · Friday 9am - 7pm · Saturday 9am - 4pm

50% OFF

CARPET AND VINYL REMNANTS

6 MONTHS INTEREST FREE GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

SM-PR6396611-1201

Offer expires Dec. 31, 2016

2

2 • Thursday, December 1, 2016

Illinois Valley Scene

Cash, check or credit card?

Do you know how much local merchants are paying?

By Goldie Rapp grapp@bcrnews.com

PRINCETON — As the holiday shopping season kicksoff, many will be urged to keep their dollars local and shop the businesses in their hometowns/counties.

While some will do so, there is one more thing shoppers can do to help local businesses even further. That is to choose paying with cash over their credit or debit cards for their purchases.

For many small businesses, the cost of accepting credit cards and other forms of electronic payment is one of their highest operating costs. This is due to all the credit card processing and swipe fees many small businesses are challenged with each day.

Every time a business owner swipes a credit or debit card for a purchase, their business is charged an interchange fee to the bank that issued the debit or credit card, as well as network fees to the credit card company.

Those fees can add up quickly.

Lori Rumbold, owner of Optimal Health in Princeton, has made a promise to her shoppers that if they use cash or check, she will donate the money, otherwise spent on fees, to support a local effort. This past summer, she kicked-off her new trend by sponsoring a community softball league team.

“It’s the same money, but instead of sending it to California or wherever the processor for the credit card company is, the money is staying here in Princeton,” she said.

Rumbold said many shoppers don’t realize that businesses get charged the fee for swiping a credit card.

Just during the last year, Rumbold switched to using an iPad Square Reader for credit and debit card swipes.

This still charges her 2.75 percent of every sale, but it’s better than the 40-cent swipe charge on top of the 2 to 5 percent of the sale she was getting charged before she switched to the Square Reader.

On some sales, Rumbold figured she was loosing money, especially those that were under $10.

Rumbold said as shoppers have caught on to what she has been doing, they get excited about the idea of their money staying local.

“Sometimes people just don’t think, and it’s easy to throw a card; but when you hear that you are going to support more local things in the community, they’re

Seasonal fun Annual cookie walk

PRINCETON — St. Louis Catholic Church in Princeton will hold its annual CCW Cookie Walk from 4 to 6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 3, and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4.

They will again sell homemade Christmas cookies by the pound. There will be refreshments and fellowship after all Masses on Sunday.

Christmas open house in Cherry CHERRY — The Cherry United Church of Christ will host a Christmas open house on Sunday, Dec. 8, at the church on Main Street in Cherry. Everyone is invited to attend.

Refreshments will be served.

Bake sale planned SPRING VALLEY — The Ladies of St. George Orthodox Church in Spring Valley will have a bake sale from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 10, at the church, 211 E. Minnesota, Spring Valley.

Annual cookie walk on Dec. 3 SPRING VALLEY — The United Church of Christ (Congregational) in Spring Valley will have its traditional cookie walk from 7 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at the church, located at Erie and Powers streets.

A variety of holiday cookies and candies will be offered in a “select your own” style Homemade peanut brittle will be sold for $7 per bag.

For more information, call the church office at 815-6631951.

Scavenger hunt/carol sing in Wyanet WYANET — The United Methodist Church of Wyanet will sponsor a Christmas decoration scavenger hunt and carol sing on Sunday, Dec. 18.

The scavenger hunt starts at 6 p.m. followed by refreshments. The carol sing will begin at 7 p.m. Both events will take place at the United Methodist Church, 112 W. Main St. in Wyanet. For more information, call 815-699-7238.

IVS photo/Goldie Rapp

Lori Rumbold (left) owner of Princeton’s Optimal Health, along with employee Sheryl Woodbury (center), assist Sue Bernabei of Dalzell with her purchases. like, ‘Oh yea, here’s $5. I have cash, or I’ll write a check,’” she said. “I don’t discourage shoppers to use a credit card, but it’s fun to see people catch-on to what we’re doing here.”

Kim Frey, Princeton Chamber executive director, said she leaves it up to business members on the cash vs. credit idea, but she confirmed there are area businesses who only take cash.

She said at the Chamber, they faced similar issues with credit card fees when people came in to purchase Chamber gift certificates. The swipe fees ended up getting too expensive, so the Chamber tried switching to

the iPad Square Reader.

While the fees were lower, they were still getting charged 2.75 percent of every sale. Frey said it added up fast, especially when shoppers would purchase several gift certificates at once. Today, the Chamber has resorted to accepting cash or check only to avoid paying the credit card fees.

Although Frey believes it’s truly up to business owners when deciding what’s best for their venture, she said any time shoppers or businesses can find a way to keep money local it’s a good thing to do and only going to improve the community in the long run.

Alathea Christmas concert in Seatonville is Dec. 11

SEATONVILLE — At 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, Alathea, the critically acclaimed folk/gospel duet, will be bringing their unique blend of folk, gospel and Appalachian mountain melodies to the Seatonville Congregational Church, Independent for a special Christmas concert featuring classic Christmas carols as well as their original music.

Alathea has been recording, singing and strumming songs since their college years in the late 1990s.

The International Acoustic Music Awards listed them as best group/ duo in 2008 for their song “Hurricane” off their My Roots Grow Deeper album and runner-up best group/duo in 2010 for their song “Come Home To Me” from their Tremble album.

Currently, Alathea serve as spokeswomen for the Appalachian Service Project (ASP), a relief mission organization helping poor and disadvantaged folks living in Appalachia. They tour the country with their great music and stories while also bringing attention to ASP.

Photo contributed

Alathea Alathea’s stop in Seatonville on Dec. 11 will end their four-city Christmas tour of Northern Illi-

nois. All folks and families from the Illinois and Bureau Valley region are encouraged to attend. For

more information, call the church at 815-894-2697.

The concert is free, but a love offering will be taken.

3

Thursday, December 1, 2016 • 3

Illinois Valley Scene

Low vision reading aids at Princeton Public Library PRINCETON — Thursday, Dec. 1, 10:45 a.m., PHS Book Club —Tigers Read — will meet for a book discussion.

Friday, Dec. 2, 4 p.m., holiday music on the piano.

Saturday, Dec. 3, the Wellness Support Group will meet.

Monday, Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m., Monday Movie: In the 1940s, a young boy attempts to convince his parents, teacher and Santa that a Red Ryder B.B. Gun really is the perfect Christmas gift.

Tuesday, Dec. 6, 10:30 a.m., youth services story time and craft. Reindeer will be the theme.

Tuesday, Dec. 6, 6:30 p.m., Covered Bridge Chorus will sing holiday music.

Wednesday, Dec. 7, 3:45 p.m., Junior High Book Club game day.

Wednesday, Dec. 7, 6:30 p.m., Chicks with Sticks will meet.

SPRING VALLEY — The library is selling gift cards again this year. The second order will be due by noon on Friday, Dec. 9, with delivery by Wednesday, Dec. 21. Order forms may be picked up at the library during regular hours. The gift cards must be paid for at the time

when the order is placed by the individual.

The children’s library has story time on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. There will be stories, crafts and refreshments.

LAMOILLE — Therapy Thursdays is an ongoing program. Come and go between 1 and 4 p.m.

Materials will be furnished, or people may bring their own.

DEPUE — Saturday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m. to noon, the library will be participating in the DePue Christmas Walk.

Each year, there are various locations throughout town that will have special activities for kids and parents. The library will have Christmas movies and spiced cider. The events are free.

On the second Tuesday of every month, the library hosts blood pressure and blood sugar screenings for free. The screenings are administered by St. Margaret’s Health from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. The next screening date is Tuesday, Dec. 13.

TISKILWA — On the first Wednesday of each month at 4:30 p.m., the library’s book club for adults meets.

Every Thursday at 10:45 a.m., the library hosts a senior

fitness class. Participants focus on balance, endurance, muscular strength, mental clarity and socialization. There is no cost to attend.

Every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., the library hosts a yoga class, where participants enjoy camaraderie with others and are challenged mentally and physically. Cost is $5 per person.

BUREAU — The Leepertown Township Public Library is open from 2 to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; from 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 815-6593283 for information. (The fax number is the same as the phone number).

LADD — The library sponsors an adult coloring club on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. Adult card club is on Fridays from 1 to 3 p.m.

PERU — The Peruvian Purlers meet weekly on Saturday morning at the Peru Public Library from 10 a.m. to noon. Whether a knitter or crocheter - expert or newbie - everyone is welcome to join the Purlers.

PRINCETON — Trouble reading? The Princeton Public Library can help with that.

The library offers a variety of services that can aid patrons with vision issues, such as their wide range of large print materials and their ability to help patrons take advantage of the state’s Talking Books program. They also recently received a Topaz Desktop Magnifier as a donation.

The Topaz Desktop Magnifier has a camera that will clearly enlarge or adjust the contrast and brightness of anything placed under it, with up to 16 different magnification levels.

The machine was created for those suffering from macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, cataracts, and other causes of low vision. It is ideal for reading important small print information common in contracts and prescription bottles.

The Talking Books Program is a state sponsored program to provide a variety of books and magazines to anyone who is blind, visually impaired, or has physical disabilities

that prevent them reading standard print. There is no out of pocket expense for users. Under the program, patrons receive a free talking book player that is portable, sturdy and easy to use. Digital audiobooks are available in all genres and delivered directly to the patron’s home. The books and magazines can be ordered by phone, email,

the online catalog or by mailing in the order form found in the bimonthly Talking Books Topics catalog. The state also has a reader advisor service that is available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For a free demonstration, stop in the library.

The library can also certify patrons’ eligibility by signing their applications.

MAD MAX’S

After Thanksgiving Sale

• Golf Shoes • Hats Christmas • Golf Bags Open House • Titleist • Mizuno Dec. 3 & 4 • Footjoy 9am - 5pm • Calloway • Ping • Gift Certificates • Ladies Golf Sets • Golf Lessons • Seasonal Memberships

IVS photo/Dave Cook

How do you make a Thanksgiving turkey?

17879-1500 N. Ave.

1 mile West of Princeton on Rt 6 & 34

815-872-2641

The answer to that question was easy for 3-year-old Finley Nally of Princeton — one of the participants in the Princeton Public Library’s craft event for youngsters this week.

Nally, along with other youngsters, had fun crafting their turkeys in preparation for the Thanksgiving holiday.

SM-PR8128621-1203

Open Daily till Christmas Eve!

4

4 • Thursday, December 1, 2016

Illinois Valley Scene

Business Spotlights

IVS photo/Lyle Ganther

Owner Tracy Fousekas and Garrett Calevaugh opened Savario’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria at 115 N. Main St. in Ladd where Torri’s Ice Cream Parlor had been located, dating back to the 1930s.

Couple opens Italian restaurant, pizzeria

IVS photo/Lyle Ganther

J.T. Dant, the new owner of Pin Splitter Lanes in Princeton, has done extensive interior remodeling of the former Crown Lanes.

Longtime bowler becomes alley’s new owner Alley’s new name is Pin Splitter Lanes

By Lyle Ganther lganther@bcrnews.com

PRINCETON — A man who considered a bowling alley his second home growing up in Princeton is the new owner of Pin Splitters Lanes.

“I have been bowling here since I was 5,” said J.T. Dant, who bought the business and has done extensive remodeling to the former Crown Lanes. “So I have been bowling here for 21 years.”

When Dant heard the 12-lane bowling alley was up for sale in 2015, he wanted to ensure it remained a bowling alley, so he purchased it from Jim Basile, former owner.

His dad, Terry Dant, who ran the Harley-Davidson shop in Princeton for 30 years, helped his son get a loan to buy the bowling alley.

Since he took over ownership on Sept.

30, 2015, J.T. Dant has had extensive work done on the bowling alley and changed its name to Pin Splitter Lanes.

“I had a mechanic come here and put in new belts, bearings and bushings for the lanes,” he said. “I put in a brand new parking lot. I enclosed the bar from the bowling alley and had a new floor installed. We

Princeton Culver’s partners with United Way Jake Swanson, general manager of Culver’s of Princeton, presents a check to Kimberly Scott of the Bureau County United Way. The donation represents a portion of the restaurant’s sales on Nov. 1 to raise funds for United Way.

repainted the whole interior. We finally got the new signs a few months ago.”

Dant’s bowling history consists of being a three-time men’s Masters champion, top qualifier in the tournament every time he entered it over the years, and being a coach of junior bowling from when he was 14 to 18 years old.

“The bowling family has been a big help, once I took over ownership,” he added.

“Many people have volunteered their time to renovate the alley, especially when it was closed for three months earlier this year from June through August for remodeling.”

Pin Splitter Lanes hosts at least one league every day of the week and two on Saturdays and Sundays. All of them have grown in the number of bowlers participating in them.

The open bowling on weekends has also been popular since Dant took over ownership of the alley. He also renovated a former storage area into a banquet room that can host birthday parties, Christmas parties, etc.

Pin Splitter Lanes is open from noon until 10 p.m. on weekdays and until 2 a.m. on weekends.

By Lyle Ganther lganther@bcrnews.com

LADD — Area residents can now enjoy homemade pizzas and other Italian food items in Ladd.

Tracy Fousekas and Garrett Calevaugh recently opened Savario’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria at 115 N. Main St. in Ladd where Torri’s Ice Cream Parlor had operated for many years, dating back to the 1930s.

“There is a lot of history in this place,” said Calevaugh. “We tried to keep its charm. We still keep some ice cream here for people to have dessert because of it being served here for many years.”

The majority of the new restaurant’s menu consists of homemade specialty pizzas made every day, added Fousekas.

Other items are gyros, appetizers, salads,

burgers, subs and ice cream.

“We felt there was a real need for pizzas out here,” said owner Fousekas, who has 17 years of experience working in the restaurant business.

The restaurant is named after Calevaugh’s best friend growing up in Montgomery, Ill., Savario “Sam” Simmons, who was killed in a car accident in 2015.

“We dedicated it to him because we wanted to have an Italian theme for a pizza restaurant,” said Calevaugh. “It was always his dream to open a restaurant.

“We brought his mom here after opening, and she had no idea we named it after her son. She was real emotional,” he said.

Savario’s hours are from 4 to 9 p.m.

Monday, Wednesday and Thursday; from 4 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday. It is closed on Tuesday.

The phone number is 815-894-9316.

IVS photo/Becky Kramer

Open house features local artist’s work Princeton artist Bart Kassabaum shows some of the items in his gallery, located at 117 N. Pleasant St. in Princeton.

MOVING SALE!

WE ARE MOVING TO OGLESBY IN 2017!

20% OFF

EVERYTHING IN THE STORE!!!!

New and Used Including Nostalgic Signs!

815-780-8677

Photo contributed SM-PR2651713-1203

www.avantitools.com • 421 5th St., Rte. 6, Peru, IL

5

Thursday, December 1, 2016 • 5

Illinois Valley Scene

This and that ...

Surviving the elements The key to a safe winter is preparedness

By Shannon Serpette sserpette@bcrnews.com

PRINCETON — Whether people love it or hate it, there’s no stopping it — winter is on its way.

Although people can’t control the weather, they can prepare for it.

And in reality, being prepared can make the difference between life and death in some instances.

Traveling during the winter can be one of the biggest dangers associated with the season.

Keenan Campbell, director of the Bureau County Emergency Management Agency, offered several tips for traveling safely during winter weather conditions.

“First and foremost, my No. 1 tip is to stay home,” he said. “But if you must travel, make sure your family knows several things: Your route of travel, estimated arrival time at destination, and phone number of someone at your destination.”

The first thing a person should do if they go

off the roadway during a storm is call 911 — this is especially important in case of injuries, Campbell said.

“Our dispatch center can oftentimes get your location and send responders to you. Some vehicles are equipped with systems to initiate a call for help (usually built into the rear-view mirror),” he said. “I cannot stress (enough) how important it is to notify someone of your location as soon as practical.

“If you are able, I would recommend you get your emergency kit from the trunk and make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow,” Campbell said.

“Start the engine every hour for about 10 minutes to warm up. Use extra blankets for warmth if possible. Do not try to walk to safety. Stay with your vehicle,” Campbell continued.

Stuffing the trunk with emergency supplies can give people a better chance of surviving being stranded for hours or potentially overnight

during a snowstorm.

According to Campbell, some of the items people should have in their car include: • A cell phone and a charger. “I recommend keeping your cell phone and its charger in the center console or glove box.

It is also recommended to purchase a small portable battery pack for your cell phone,” Campbell said.

• Sleeping bags and blankets — people with young children should pack enough in the trunk to keep everyone covered.

• Flashlights and extra batteries.

• A first-aid kit.

• Non-perishable food.

• Bottled water.

• Dry extra clothing, gloves, hat and scarf.

• Shovel and a bag of sand or cat litter.

• Windshield scraper and brush.

• Jumper cables.

• Spare tire.

• Basic toolkit.

• Radio, battery or hand-cranked.

On the home front,

Nicor shares winter safety guidelines Nicor Gas wants to offer customers some important tips to keep their families safe.

Snow and ice accumulation on or near a natural gas meter or an outdoor appliance venting area may be dangerous if not removed. Snow and ice can impact the operation and lead to a natural gas leak. A blocked exhaust vent can affect the performance of a furnace and can result in carbon monoxide buildup. To ensure safe and continued delivery of natural gas during the upcoming winter months, Nicor Gas offers the following winter preparedness guidelines: Winter safety • Keep meters clear of snow and ice.

• Remove icicles that may drip water onto the meter.

• Use a broom to move snow away from the meter; avoid using shovels or snow blowers.

• Check outdoor vent openings and air intakes to ensure appliances are not obstructed by snow or ice or any other debris.

• Ensure the natural gas meter is visible and accessible at all times.

• Heavy snow and ice may weigh down power lines and tree limbs, causing them to fall. If a natural gas meter is damaged or a gas line is exposed, immediately leave the area and call the 24-hour emergency response line at 888-Nicor4u (1-888-642-6748).

Weatherization • Open curtains during the day to allow

sunlight to heat your home naturally, and close curtains at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.

• Keep furniture, drapes, stuffed animals and other objects away from your heating sources.

• Caulk and weather-strip drafty doors and windows.

• Use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of your window frames during the cold winter months.

• Caulk and seal air leaks where plumbing, ducting or electrical wiring penetrates through exterior walls, floors and ceilings.

• Install insulated gaskets behind outlet and switch plates on exterior walls to prevent drafts.

Carbon monoxide (CO) safety • Install a CO detector near all bedrooms in the house.

• Do not install a detector near your kitchen or garage or in a room with a furnace.

• If customers smell natural gas or suspect carbon monoxide is present in their home or business, they should immediately leave the area and call 9-1-1 from a safe location.

• Residents are encouraged to seek medical attention immediately if anyone in their home or business experiences possible symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, which include headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.

Auction calendar Dec. 3 - Nellie Golder, real estate, furniture and collectibles, tilt bed trailer, tools and related items, 10 a.m., 119 Breen Ave., Bradford, Tumbleson Auction Co., auctioneers.

Dec. 3 - Donald R. Springer Estate, farm land and recreational land, 10 a.m., Wise Guys banquet room, 2205 N. Main St., Princeton, Dahl Real Estate, auctioneers.

Dec. 4 - Beverly Hall, real estate, GMC truck, Ford Edge, craftsman mower, furniture and collectibles, 1 p.m., 820 W. Putnam St., Princeton, Tumbleson Auction Co., auctioneers.

Dec. 4 - Ken Lamchick, primitive collectibles, 9:30 a.m., 401 W. Main St., Wyanet, Rediger Auction Service, auctioneers.

Dec. 10 - Jeri Sue Groom, primitive, antique, and modern furniture, antiques, collectibles and household items, 10 a.m., 813 Main St., Henry, Tumbleson Auction Co., auctioneers.

Dec. 11 - Semia Kargl, very nice modern furniture, lawn and garden, collectibles and household items, 10 a.m., 1630 Deerfield Road, Princeton, Tumbleson Auction Co., auctioneers.

Dec. 12 - Mercer & Fulton Co., crop land acres, 10 a.m., Western Illinois University, Union Grand Ballroom, Macomb, Schrader Auction, auctioneers.

planning is the key to surviving and thriving during winter storms.

“I always say that families should have a plan on how they will handle emergencies around the home. The major items that every home should have is a supply of bottled water. Generally one gallon per family member per day. It is recommended to have a three-day minimum supply,” Campbell said. “Non-perishable foods such as Clift bars are always a good idea.

They are high in calories, require no refrigeration or cooking.”

Being aware of the deadly threat of carbon monoxide poisoning is crucial.

“The greatest danger in the winter is the risk for carbon monoxide poisoning,” Campbell said.

“This occurs when people try to cook with a grill inside, use the stoves for heating, and do not place a portable generator away from doors or windows,” Campbell concluded.

Know before you go Before you head out unprepared into winter weather, here’s some things to keep in mind: • Since 1997, 182 people have died from the cold in Illinois.

• The coldest temperature recorded in Illinois happened in 1999 in Woodford County. The temperature reached minus 36 degrees.

• Residents of Illinois can expect, on average, to face five severe storms each winter.

• The average number of vehicle crashes in Illinois each winter is 27,879. The average number of fatalities from those crashes is 49.

Source: The winter weather preparedness guide created by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the National Weather Service.

New free safety app Keenan Campbell, director of the Bureau County Emergency Management Agency, announced the launch of a new Bureau County EMA iPhone and Android safety app: “Ready Bureau.”

It is available for download now in the app stores by searching for Ready Bureau.

1221 North Main Street, Princeton, IL

815-875-1221

www.illinoisvalleyhomeshow.com

OPEN HOUSES SATURDAY - DEC. 3RD

10:30 AM - 12 PM

1104 N. Jacqualine lane - Princeton Price Reduced! Princeton! $124,500 New 2015 CA & heat exchanger. Partially finished basement w/ egress window.3 garages. Patio. (agent owned). #09367390

New Listing! Buda $78,000 Nice floor plan ranch style home full basement.

Alley access to side plus street access to garage.

12’x23’living room. #09392661

Price Reduced! $175,000 Condo Unit! Main level living w/ 2BR, sunroom 10’x16’, LR w/ gas lot FP & den. (Handicap accessible - wide halls 7 doorways. #09329507

Princeton $165,500 Lots of space w/ 5-6 BR, LR w/ vaulted ceiling & gas FP, newly remodeled kitchen w/ island. Garage w/ heated floors & bathroom. #09199574

Price Reduced! $193,900 Charming home w/ modern amenities. 2car garage & 1.5 car garage. SS appliances. 15’x 23’ LR. Deck. Main laundry. #09382463

Princeton! $77,000 Front porch, back deck, updated kitchen, main laundry, walk in pantry, whole house fan. Mostly fenced backyard. Great location. #09164087

New Listing! $77,900 Lake Thunderbird Home! Updated bungalow in wooded setting. Deck, front porch, updated kitchen, woodburning stove & more! #09388722

Sheffield! $87,500 Extra clean Ranch style home w/ 3 BR home, 2 baths, eat in kitchen, 23’x27’ family room in walkout basement. Updated roof, windows. #09272636

Price Reduced! $269,000 On 7.52 acres w/ creek. Home built2007. 4 BR, open floor, kitchen w/ breakfast bar & pantry.

Basement. 3 car garage. Barn. #09263557

Henry Home! $80,000 3 BR, large fenced back yard, full usable basement, living room 23’x13’ living room (hardwood under carpet). Includes appliances. #09333464

Price reduced! $50,000 Dalzell! Adorable 2 BR home, large backyard,attached garage. Roof & furnace 2009.

Vinyl siding & porch. Addn. shed.#09154880

Princeton $82,000 Business Building for Sale. Income potential from apt. - charming buildings w/ glassed porch french doors to interior rooms. #09287446

Price Reduced! $21,660 DePue! Cute 3 BR home w/ 2enclosed porches, walk in pantry & nice yard. (Needs new electrical service). Detached garage. #09354043

Princeton! $79,000 Spacious- 4 BR home near Zearing Park. Many updates.Original hardwood floor refinished. New furnace 2015. Front/back porches.#09335073

Price Reduced! $105,000 Wyanet! Large master BR suite. Stone FP, hot tub on enclosed front porch. 2.5 car garage & concrete circle drive. #09270032

Princeton $319,000 4 BR& 3 baths, 2 story foyer, hardwood floors, custom bookcases, vaulted ceiling, Kitchen windowed eating area. Deck & MORE! #09331849

New Listing! $90,000 Manlius! 3 BR ranch & full basement. Large .43 acre yard connects to creek. Patio. One floor plan.

SS appliances. Many updates. #09391301

Country Home! $68,500 Secluded area - home w/ 3 BR, 2 car attached garage, eat in kitchen, 12’x24’ living room, full basement - just waiting for you. #09267296

6

6 • Thursday, December 1, 2016

Illinois Valley Scene

Senior Spotlight Michael Manning • St. Bede Academy Name: Michael Manning.

School: St. Bede Academy.

Birthday: Dec. 22, 1998; Spring Valley.

Hometown: Ladd.

Family: Jim and Jennifer Manning (parents), Max Manning (brother, sophomore at St. Bede).

Sports: Football, basketball, track and field.

Favorite sport: Football. I loved my football career as a whole. The sport provided me with great friendships and really made me a better man and athlete.

Favorite food: Mama’s Pasta from Verucchi’s in Spring Valley.

Likes: Washing my truck.

Dislikes: Animals, dogs in particular.

Person with the greatest influence on my athletic career: Brad Groleau, he is my cousin, almost like a brother to me, and really made me want to become a great athlete when I was young.

People with the greatest influence in my life: My parents. They have really taught me many valuable life lessons and made me to be the great man I am today.

Dream celebrity prom date: Taylor Swift.

Name three historic figures I would like to spend time with: King Arthur - he could make me a better leader; John F. Kennedy - Under pressure he was never startled, I would like that quality; Harry Caray - We would have a good time watching the Cubs.

The last song I listened to: “Trip Around the Sun”

by Kenny Chesney.

People would be surprised to know I: am a very disorganized person. My locker is a mess.

I stay home to watch: Chicago Cubs baseball with the family.

When I need luck for a big game: I pray.

Funniest person I have ever met: My brother Max is a very funny guy and he always knows how to make me laugh.

What they’ll say about me at school after I graduate: I hope they will say that I was a great guy and I truly was the spirit of St. Bede.

Most embarrassing moment: I fell running onto the field for my first varsity football game freshman year at Amboy.

Most unforgettable moment: Dancing in the variety show with my friends senior year.

What I would like to do in life: I would like to go to college, get a degree in an engineering field, get a professional degree, and get a job and start a family.

Ultimate sports fantasy: Beating Hall in football (done).

Three words that best describe myself: Caring, respectful, hard-working.

IVS photos/Kevin Hieronymus

St. Bede senior Michael Mannings says the three words that best describe himself are caring, respectful, hard-working.

It’s here, the Holiday Season..... either dreaded or anticipated you don’t have a choice.

Make the rest of your choices easy.

Kaddy gift certificates for everyone!!!!!

Don’t forget Kaddy apparel also.

218 South McCoy Street, Granville, IL. 61326

7

Thursday, December 1, 2016 • 7

Illinois Valley Scene

Snapshots from the Princeton Holiday Girls Basketball Tournament

Thundercat wrestling GRANVILLE — Practices for the Thundercat Wrestling Club, for grades 5-8, will be Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday nights from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Putnam County High School Media Center.

Total fee for the club is $85. This covers the IKWF $45 membership, $10 USA Wrestling membership, shirt, and singlet. Other fees are shoes $25-$50 (Google Wrestling Gear); headgear $15; and tournament fees are $15-$20 per tournament to the hosting club Competitive tournaments (carpool available) are Jan. 8, 2017, Morton Tournament; Jan. 22, Pekin Tournament; Jan. 29, LaSalle Tournament; Feb. 5, Mendota Tournament; Feb. 12, Martinez Tournament (Hinsdale); March 4, regionals (LaSalle-Peru); March 11, sectionals (Rock Island); and March 16-18 state (Rockford).

Other tournaments available.

Any questions, call Coach Jerry Kriewald at 815-712-9609.

Lions Pride hosts Kids Toy Drive

LAMOILLE — LaMoille High School is sponsoring the Christmas for Kids Toy Drive with the Bureau County United Way. There will be a box for collection in the entrance to the High School.

The Lions Pride Spirit Club would like to encourage the community to help with this collection at upcoming boys and girls basketball teams. On Thursday, Dec. 2, the boys will host Kirkland High School.

LHS will offer half-price admission for each person that brings a toy or gift to help fill our box.

Anything would be appreciated, but for the ages 9-13 there seems to be a greater need. Here are some suggested items for this age group: T-shirts and sport shorts – youth large to adult large sweatshirts and sweatpants - youth large to adult large, book bags, books - young adult series, socks, winter hats, scarves, mittens, board games, card games, sports balls, Frisbees, purses, fingernail polish and lip gloss.

Princeton Park District Update

PRINCETON — Registration is underway for the indoor adult soccer league sponsored by the Princeton Park District.

Games will be held Sundays at 12:30 p.m. at the Bureau County Metro Center from Dec. 4 through Jan. 22. Cost is $200 per team.

Sign-ups are also being held for the adult volleyball league. Roster and league

fees are due by Dec. 4. League play starts Dec. 13 with games held on Tuesdays beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The youth dodge ball league is underway at the Bureau County Metro Center.

Games are held Fridays with K-2 starting at 5 p.m. and grades 3-5 at 5:45 p.m.

The youth basketball league is being held Saturdays at the Met starting at 9 a.m.

Wrestle wars coming to Streator

STREATOR — Illinois Valley Area pro wrestling fans are in for an early Christmas present as La Salle native “Sadistic” Sean David Hubbard and his Rebellious Wrestling Federation along with Midwestern Wrestling Alliance with Wrestling Past Present Future all unite to present Wrestle Wars Saturday, Dec. 19 at the PNA Arena at 906 Livingston St. in Streator.

Doors open at 6 p.m. with a bell time at 7 p.m. This major wrestling event will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project with proceeds benefiting our wounded veterans.

A galaxy of Independent Wrestling Superstars will appear headed by Ring of Honor Superstar “Professional Wrestling’s Last Real Man” Silas Young vying for WPPF Heavyweight Championship against Ohio Valley Wrestling TV Star “The Iron Demon” Shane Mercer in a first time meeting Indy Dream Match.

This event will feature other Ohio Valley Wrestling TV Stars including: “The Hood Ninja” Hyzaya, former WWE “Tough Enough” competitor “The Rockin’ Rebel” Diamond Steele with Annie Steele and Mickie Knuckles. This event will also feature stars from MWA, RWF, WPPF, and other organizations with 10 matches signed.

Front row tickets are $10, general admission is $8 and seniors (62 and over), kids (under 12), and service men and women (with military ID) $5. The family 4 pack (2 adult general admission and two kids, seniors, or service tickets) is $25.

Tickets are available at Trainor Floor Covering of Streator, Mr. J’s of Ottawa and Streator, The PNA Hall of Streator, online at www.tickethookups.com/wrestlewar or by will call at www.facebook.com/rwfpro.

This event will also have silent auctions with many items donated including autographed wrestling memorabilia, gift cards and a guitar.

For more information, call 815-2133516 *** Submit items for Happenings to sports@ bcrnews.com.

DIAMOND SENIOR APTS OF PRINCETON

EVERYTHING BRAND NEW! 1 Bedrooms $510 2 Bedrooms $570

Move-In By 12/31/2016 receive $200 Walmart Gift Card *Income Restrictions Apply*

CALL FOR DETAILS 1000 Diamond Circle, Princeton, IL (815) 915-8243

Professionally Managed By Ludwig And Company

8

8 • Thursday, December 1, 2016

Illinois Valley Scene

Stay Local. Save Local.

Looking for fun in the Illinois Valley and save some money too?

Save up to 50% on vouchers from local restaurants, stores & services with...

!

Illinois Valley

B GDEALS Go to bcrnews.com or putnamcountyrecord.com or tonicanews.com and save!