PCR-03-25-2015

Single Copy Cost 50¢ Volume 147 No. 30

“PRSRT STD.” US Postage Paid No. 486 SHAW MEDIA POSTAL PATRON LOCAL R.R. BOXHOLDER CARRIER ROUTE PRESORT

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

IVCC drops lawsuit

By Ken Schroeder

kschroeder@putnamcountyrecord.com

OGLESBY — The lawsuit brought against Putnam County and Marquis Energy by Illinois Valley Community College has reached its end. On Wednesday, March 18, the IVCC Board instructed school lawyers to drop the suit.

Full details on the decision and what it means for IVCC are not available as of press time. The board and college officials will discuss the terms and its repercussions at its next board meeting on Thursday, April 9.

“Obviously, it’s $1 million late,” said Mark Marquis, chief executive officer of Marquis Energy regarding the dismissal of the lawsuit. “That money has been squandered, and hopefully someone will be held accountable on a board

level. This sends the wrong message to businesses that want to come to this area; to pursue this lawsuit for four years sends a message to other companies that it’s not business friendly here, and that hurts the local economy.”

Taxpayers in the IVCC district paid $680,000 for IVCC’s lawsuit, while Putnam County taxpayers spent $250,000 to defend the suit.

IVCC filed the suit in April 2011. It stemmed from a tax abatement dispute it had with Putnam County and the Marquis Energy ethanol plant, which is located in the Bureau-Putnam Enterprise Zone. IVCC signed on to the enterprise zone in 2006 with an agreement to abate taxes on construction of new businesses in the zone in order to spur economic growth.

The college left the enterprise zone in 2011.

PCR photo/Dixie Schroeder

Putnam County Junior High School band members (from left) Becky Ramey, Wesley Grimshaw, Emily Bruch, Molly Boyd and Emily Ely participate in band practice. Band director for PCJH is David Lombardo.

March is Music in Our Schools month

By Dixie Schroeder

Watch for these uncontested races on your April ballot

By Ken Schroeder

kschroeder@putnamcountyrecord.com

There are four contested races in the April 7 consolidated election, but the majority of offices up for election this year are either uncontested or — in many cases — under-contested.

Magnolia has three empty seats on the village board and an additional position for a trustee for a two-year unexpired term. There are no candidates for any of the seats.

The three incumbents will keep their seats on the Mark Village Board. Scott Hultz, Leonard Bertuli and Steven Faletti are running unopposed.

Acting Village President Brandy Sandberg is running unopposed for her position on the Mark Board. There are two candidates for the three empty seats on the board, incumbents Richard Harr and Frank McNaughton. Incumbent Jim Wegryzn is the lone contender

for the unexpired two-year term trustee.

The village of Standard has three trustee seats open for two contenders. John Seghi and Joseph Piccinelli are the candidates.

There are no contenders for the Hennepin Park District Commissioner.

The Putnam County Library District has four, four-year term trustee seats and one unexpired twoyear term chair, but there are no candidates for any of them.

Three incumbents will keep their chairs on the Putnam County School Board.

Laurie Glenn of Magnolia, James Gibson of Hennepin and Adriane Shore of Granville are each running unopposed for their seats.

Questionnaires were sent to each of the candidates to get their views and aspirations for the office. You can the questionnaires of those candidates who returned them to the newspaper at www.putnamcountyrecord.com.

dschroeder@putnamcountyrecord.com

If you hear music flowing through the hallways at Putnam County Schools this month, you’ll want to remember March is Music in Our Schools Month, according to the National Association of Music Educators (NAME.) Research has found learning music not only fosters learning in other core subjects such as math and reading, but it also teaches important life skills and are an effective vehicle for transmitting self-confidence, self-discipline, cooperative learning, social interaction and cultural awareness. It is

also known that music in the school hallways can help foster continual musical development in students.

David Lombardo, a Putnam County music teacher, has a strong belief in the power of music education.

“I believe that music, along with art, technology, PE and other so called electives are as important to the educational process as science, reading, math and history. Unfortunately, not many people think the way I do.

In music, we express our feelings and our thoughtfulness. I believe that it is with music that we come close to answering an all important question: ‘Why

teaching, and I love my students. But the more government negatively interferes with education passing down mandates and standardized testing, the more I find it difficult to continue on in one of the most noble professions,” Lombardo said.

The National Institute of Health has conducted studies that also show music is beneficial for those who have trouble with sleep. Research has shown that listening to music promotes better sleep patterns and has often created a more restful sleep. In certain instances music listening has even been shown to help those who have insomnia.

Four contested races in Putnam County

By Ken Schroeder

kschroeder@putnamcountyrecord.com

There are four contested races in Putnam County for the April 7 consolidated election.

Three of those contests are for village board seats and one for seats on the Illinois Valley Community College Board of Trustees.

Five candidates are vying for three seats on the Granville Village Board. In the hunt are incumbent Jimmie Pettit, Robert Fescenmeyer, incumbent Sean Coleman, Jared Baker and incumbent Lucian Verda.

The Hennepin Village Board also has three seats open and five candidates. The candidates are incumbent Teresa Clau-

Vol. 147 No. 30

sen, Arthur Bradford Sr., Andrew Brouwer, incumbent Karyn Christiansen and Nicholas Lenkaitis.

Two Mark residents are vying for the two-year, unexpired board seat.

Michael Hooper and Monte Flack have thrown their hats into the ring for the position.

IVCC has two open seats on the college board with three candi-

dates: incumbent Melissa Olivero of Peru, Isaiah Roberts of Magnolia and incumbent Everett Solon.

Questionnaires were sent to each of the candidates to get their views and aspirations for the office. You can find the questionnaires that were completed and returned by deadline online at www.putnamcountyrecord.com.

515 Bureau Valley Parkway, Princeton, Illinois

Two Sections - 24 Pages

© The Putnam County Record

are we put on earth?’

“Music is the reason many students come to school. I have seen it over and over again. Many students who dislike school and learning absolutely love music and cite it as the reason for enjoying school.

“The state of Illinois and the federal government are finding it necessary to squeeze music out of school and force districts into making tough decisions. Those people do not know the first thing about educating students and should not be making decisions that will ultimately determine the success of our most precious and valuable citizens — our children. I love

HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTRE

815-875-3347 • fax: 815-875-2012 Contact Arin Peterson at apeterson@colonialhrc.com www.colonialcarecentre.com

2 • The Putnam County Record • Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Marquis ethanol plant to double

Serving Putnam County Since 1868

Jeff Robertson, president and director of risk management for Marquis Grain, presents the history of the Marquis ethanol plant and outlines the plans for the expansion in progress at the Putnam County Rotary Ag Night March 19 at the McNabb Fire Department Jim Goldasich Center. When construction is completed, Robertson said the ethanol plant in Hennepin will be the largest dry-mill plant in the world. The expansion will double the output of the plant, and will require more corn from farmers, which will increase demand and prices for corn locally.

815-875-4461 Published each Wednesday $20 Per Year in Advance in Putnam County $40 Per Year in Advance Outside of Putnam County

Contact Publisher Sam Fisher

sfisher@putnamcountyrecord.com

Editor Terri Simon

tsimon@putnamcountyrecord.com

PCR photo/Ken Schroeder

Submit

The Putnam County Record encourages readers to submit news for publication in our paper.

Special events, weddings, births, awards and honors, anniversaries, promotions, etc. are welcome items for the paper. Some fees may apply.

Schools, businesses, organizations and groups are encouraged to send information on activities and events.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Putnam County Record, P.O. Box 340, Princeton, IL 61356

Granville eyes Hennepin Street project

By Ken Schroeder

kschroeder@putnamcountyrecord.com

GRANVILLE — Village Engineer Mike Richetta briefed the Granville Village Board on the upcoming street repairs and the funds available at its Tuesday, March 17 meeting.

“The current motor fuel tax fund is at $87,000, and we’re expecting revenues of about $32,000 which will give us $119,000,” Richetta said. “That’s what you could spend if you drain the account.”

Richetta broke down costs for repairs for the board to consider.

“Overlay is $13 per square yard for a mill and fill. We’d profile it with a surface grinder and lay an inch and a half to two inches of asphalt,” Richetta said. “Oil and chip is $3.75 for A1; A2 is about $4.50 which is two layers; then if you add in the tilling, it’s an extra $5 per square yard.”

One of the projects being considered this year is Hennepin Street between School and Divi-

sion streets. Richetta tentatively priced that stretch as $25,000 for A1 oil and chip and $28,000 for A2. He said additional spray patching would also be necessary due to the condition of the street.

“With the amount of traffic the road gets, you may consider an A3. That’s not just two passes, but three layers of oil and chip,” Richetta said.

The board directed Richetta to work up a full proposal for Hennepin and South streets. South Street

was on the schedule for last year but was never completed.

In other action, the board: • Passed a cross connection control ordinance.

The ordinance is required by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and directs the village to survey every resident with a village water meter. The IEPA is demanding 100 percent compliance from residents surveyed.

• Heard a status report on the media replacement

at the sewer plant from Richetta.

• Passed an ordinance setting the meeting dates for the next fiscal year.

The board will continue to meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.

• Tentatively set the spring garage sale dates for April 24-25.

• Donated $200 to the Marshall-Putnam Fair Queen Pageant.

• Passed a proclamation designating May as Motorcycle Awareness Month.

Incorporated

FREE DELIVERY

Investments · Tax · Insurance · Retirement Multi-Year Guaranteed Tax-Deferred Annuity Rates

815-339-2323 Mon. - Fri. 8:30am to 5pm Closed Saturday & Sunday

5 Year 2.50%

6 Year 2.75%

8 Year 2.85%

10 Year 3.00%

EFFECTIVE MARCH 16TH, RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE

CyrFinancial.com • Hennepin, IL • (815) 925-7501 Fixed annuities are long-term investments designed for retirement purposes. Guaranteed interest rates are based on the claims-paying ability of the underlying insurance company. Surrender charges may apply.

Withdrawals are subject to ordinary income taxes, and if made prior to age 59 ½, may be subject to a 10% penalty. Additional benefits and riders may increase the cost of the premium or lower the interest rate. Tax deferral is of no additional benefit if annuity is held in a retirement account such as an IRA or 457(b) plan.

Wednesday, March 25, 2015 • The Putnam County Record • 3

Hennepin calls ‘batter up!’

By Dixie Schroeder

dschroeder@putnamcountyrecord.com

HENNEPIN — It will be “batter up!” time this spring for the children of Hennepin due to the actions of the Hennepin Village Board and its new baseball and softball coordinator Steve Staley.

The board approved Staley’s proposed budget of $10,950 for the upcoming baseball and softball season. This budget will include the cost of hiring officials and diamond maintenance among other items in the budget. The board discussed the need for a committee to oversee the program and appointed village trustee Quentin Buffington to serve as liaison for the board.

Staley also bought to the board’s attention the

need for electricity to be turned on for the field and bathroom facilities, as well as some low hanging tree branches that need to be trimmed. Mayor Kevin Coleman said he had already contacted Mattingly Tree Service about the tree limbs. Coleman also asked village employee Tim Rylko to turn on electricity to the field facilities.

Discussion was also held on possible improvements in several village sidewalks.

Due to potential costs involved, the board agreed to instruct Rylko to work on select areas where tree roots have buckled sidewalks. They also agreed the plan to add sidewalks in Bassi Memorial Park should have priority this year. The board is expected to vote on approval of funds to act on this project in the April board meeting.

Colors for Arie coordinator Carol Miller reported the date for the annual walk has been set for Saturday, May 23. Community Partners Against Substance Abuse (CPASA) will handle the registration and T-shirt table on the day of the event. Miller has asked the community for volunteers to man color stations throughout the walk/run route. Coleman and the board assured Miller he event had its full support.

The run has been held in honor of Miller’s daughter, Arie Boggio.

In other business the board made its annual donations to the Putnam County Rotary Afterglow ($300), the Putnam County Community Center ($150) and the Marshall-Putnam Fair Queen Pageant ($100).

The board reviewed a suggested proposal by

Legislation requires study of infrastructure for frack sand mining operations

trustee Matt Dean on a potential grant program to help area business improve the facades of their buildings. The proposed program would allow matching funds up to a select amount to be used. The proposal will be reviewed in more detail at the April board meeting.

Coleman also asked village residents to contact the board or anyone connected with updating the Veterans Monument in Walter Durley Boyle Park.

The group needs names of area veterans who served in wars on the following dates: Aug. 2, 1990, to present; Dec. 20, 1989, to Jan. 31, 1990; Aug. 24, 1982 to July 31, 1984; Feb. 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975; and June 25, 1950, to Jan. 31, 1955.

Names can be emailed to americanlegion1044@ yahoo.com.

SPRINGFIELD — Legislation sponsored by State Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Peru) to study the effect of frack sand mining operations coming online in and around LaSalle County was approved March 19 by the Senate Commerce and Economic Development Committee.

“Because frack sand mining has been and continues to be a huge economic boom for our area, we must make sure our infrastructure can handle it,” Rezin said.

“The trucks and equipment used for these mines are big and heavy.

Our roads and bridges must be in good shape so we can continue to safely transport different materials and goods, and also make sure our families using the same roads and bridges get to their destinations safely.”

Rezin’s Senate Bill 1803 says the Illinois Department of Transportation must conduct a study on the effects of agricultural, manufacturing, mining and other industrial operations in LaSalle, DeKalb, Kendall, Grundy, Livingston, Woodford, Marshall, Putnam,

Mautino backs measure to notify parents about sex offenders near school bus stops SPRINGFIELD — Parents would be notified of dangerous sex offenders living near school bus stops under new legislation backed by state Rep. Frank Mautino.

“Schools should be supportive, enriching places that families feel secure sending their children, and this must extend to the place where students start and end their days,” Mautino said. “Adding to the

information that parents have about their community will allow them to make choices they deem appropriate to ensure that their kids are safe.”

Mautino is supporting House Bill 3634, which requires school districts to notify parents if registered sex offenders live within 500 feet of a school bus stop. Current law forbids sex offenders from residing

within 500 feet of a school, park or playground, but no such protection is afforded to children waiting for transportation to school.

According to the Illinois State Police, Bureau County is home to 38 registered sex offenders, while 185 live in LaSalle County and 70 reside in Livingston County.

“The threat posed by sexual predators is one that

THIS WEEK'S SPECIALS!

SALE DATES March 25 - 31

Betty Crocker Specialty Potatoes 99¢ Folger’s Coffee . . . . . . . . . . . $8 .99

MEAT

Dole Pineapple . . . . . . . . . . . .99¢ Jello Gelatin/Pudding . . . 4/$3 .00

should never be underestimated,” Mautino said.

“Their proximity to our kids is an unacceptable risk and we must continue to strengthen the laws that protect young people from them.”

House Bill 3634 awaits consideration by the House Elementary and Secondary Education: School Curriculum and Policies Committee.

2 $ 99 Pork Back Ribs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 ¢ Chicken Leg Quarters . . . . . .79 $ 99 Butter Solids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 lb .

Nabisco Snack Crackers . 2/$4 .00

Pork Tenderloins . . . . . . . . . . .

Nabisco Ritz Crackers . . . 2/$4 .00

lb . Farmland Half Rack

M&M’s Candy . . . . . . . . . . 2/$6 .00 Pillsbury Cake Mix . . . . . . 4/$5 .00 Pillsbury Frosting . . . . . . . 3/$4 .98 Pillsbury Flour . . . . . . . . . . . $2 .49

Daisy Sour Cream . . . . . . . . 2/$4 .00 Pillsbury Pie Crust . . . . . . . . 2/$5 .00

FROZEN Cool Whip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99¢ Sara Lee Pies . . . . . . . . . . 2/$9 .00 PF Old Recipe Ice Cream 2/$8 .00

$ 99

PC FOODS RT. 71 GRANVILLE • 339-6827 LOCALLY OWNED!! SAVE GAS...SHOP IN TOWN! OPEN 7 DAYSAWEEK *7A.M. - 9 P.M. pcfoods@mchsi.com

lb . Family Pack

Every Day Low Prices!

lb .

DELI

DAIRY Kraft American Cheese Singles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2/$5 .00

Bureau and Lee counties. The Agency would then submit a report to lawmakers by Jan. 1, 2017, including impacts of road usage and traffic pattern disruptions by sand mine trucking companies; potential road improvement plans to alleviate the additional highway traffic caused by sand mine operations; and potential for adding new railway traffic caused by sand mine operations.

“Frack sand mining operations will only continue to increase in Illinois due to our abundance of resources,” Rezin said. “We must take a proactive approach now to make sure these counties have the infrastructure and funding they need to support the operations and the local communities’ needs.”

Hydraulic fracturing, commonly known as “fracking,” is the process of using sand, water and sometimes gas mixtures to break into the underground rock formations hitting new oil and natural gas fields.

Senate Bill 1803 now returns to the full Senate for further consideration.

5 $ 99 Old Fashion Loaf . . . . . . . . . . . 3 $ 99 Mozzarella Cheese . . . . . . . . 4 $ 99 Mild Cheddar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 $ 99 Chicken Salad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 lb . Oven Roasted

Turkey Breast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 99

lb .

FRESH PRODUCE

lb .

lb .

lb .

1 $ 49 Cauliflower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

lb .

Tomatoes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 99

4 • The Putnam County Record • Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Beware the Nasty ‘Niit’ — Net Investment Income Tax

If you happen to have your adjusted gross income hit the threshold for this new tax (part of ACA), it may be time to see how you can restructure your investments and rental incomes to minimize the impact of this new tax. It is 3.8 percent of your net investment income above the threshold.

Now many taxpayers can say this doesn’t affect them because they are below the threshold, but will this always be the case? What may be surprising are some of the items that are included in net investment income, such as rents. Does anyone out there own farmland that they cash rent? Oh yeah, that is part of net investment income! It’s not just interest and dividends that are your investment income, but gains from the sale of assets (unless they were used as part of

your business), and rental income.

At this point, the thresholds are high enough that most taxpayers are not affected, but it is something to be aware is out there, and discuss with your tax advisor if you are close to the threshold amounts.

Barb Chambers, CPA resides in McNabb. She can be reached at 815-882-2437 or 815-252-2427 or at Baccpa1@gmail.com.

Dollars and Sense Interesting odds and ends Sad state of affairs In case you missed it, the U.S. Census Bureau published its annual population estimates for 2014 (www.factfinder.census. gov). The figures indicate Illinois shrank by nearly 10,000 people in that time, far more than any other state. Losing 10,000 residents is really an amazing feat when you consider that our country actually increased in population by nearly 2.4 million people.

Only six states lost population.

In fact if you remove deaths and births from the figures, Illinois actually lost over 62,000 people. I wrote on these same pages in late 2013, “According to the Illinois Policy Institute and IRS data, between 1995 and 2009, Illinois has lost one resident every 10 minutes ... and with them went 26 billion in taxable income.” Now it seems the

Christian Cyr COMMENTARY numbers are getting worse with Illinois losing a resident every 8.4 minutes.

Brown M&Ms — Pay attention to the small print In his autobiography, David Lee Roth explained his band Van Halen used to have extensive contracts with every concert venue it played. Buried in the middle of the contract, Article 126 demanded each venue provide a bowl of M&Ms backstage … but not just any bowl of candy. No, the contract stipulated that all brown M&Ms must be removed from the bowl.

To most of us that sounds like the demands of some quirky rock stars, right?

There was actually a very valid reason for this demand. At each venue, the band arrived with nine

semi-trucks full of gear, theatrics, pyrotechnics, heavy staging and high voltage electrical equipment. The stage setup was quite complicated and had to be done with the precision of a Swiss watch.

Any mistake made by the venue during set-up could have been life-threatening.

So what was the very first thing Roth did every time he arrived at a new venue? He would walk backstage and check out the bowl of M&Ms. If he saw a brown M&M in the bowl, he’d demand a complete check of the entire production. He knew from past experience that when the promoter did not read the contract fully, problems would occur. Always take the time to read the fine print thoroughly.

Disability soon to be disabled The National Bureau of Economic Research has published a study conducted by professors of Stanford University and MIT (http://www.nber.

org/papers/w12436).

Noted in the study is an estimate that the U.S. disability program run by the Social Security Administration will be out of money by the end of 2016. Why? One reason offered is the fact that from 1984 to 2006, the percentage of working-age Americans on SS disability has doubled. No need to fear however … as of this writing, Congress may steal funds from other sources such as payroll taxes collected and Social Security retirement funds to cover future disability shortfalls. The house is trying to prevent this ability however. By the way… the study also suggests some disability program participants may be ripping off the system? Can you believe it?

Christian Cyr is a financial advisor in Hennepin.

If you are Interested in reading more, his monthly newsletter is available at Cyrfinancial.com or by calling Cyr Financial at 815-925-7501.

Personnel on the table for PC schools

By Ken Schroeder

kschroeder@putnamcountyrecord.com

GRANVILLE — The Putnam County School Board kept all but two of its teachers for the 2015-16 school year. Traditionally, many schools release a number of teachers through a Reduction in Force (RIF) in March, but only one instructor was released that way by the board at its Monday, March 16, meeting.

Music teacher Carol Eckwall was released with a Notice of Honorable Dismissal (RIF) in order to cut

costs in the music department. The two remaining music teachers will be spread among the district’s four schools.

First-year junior high math teacher John Coons was also released by the school.

The school district will be adding at least one more teacher to the special education program. High school Principal Bob Peterson told the board enrollment projections for the next school year includes a total of 44 students in the special education high school program. There

LEO ONO NO OR ORE RE E VOLU OLU UNT NTE TEE EE ER R FIR RE DEP D PT DEPT T.

SMOKER MO OK KE KE ER

are 32 students currently served by the program.

“With that 44, we’re not counting the possibility of any move-ins,” Peterson said. “The teachers usually keep a pretty good handle as far as the numbers.

We anticipated moving a special ed teacher from the junior high to the high school, but that person has resigned. We were looking to hire one instructor, but with the needs of 44 kids and what is projected, I don’t think we’ll be able to get by with just one. I think we’re going to have to hire two teachers.”

done during spring break and completed by graduation.

• Learned the state of Illinois is behind in its school funding for this school year.

McCracken told the board the state owes the school district $268,857, which McCracken said was “pretty typical” at this time of year.

• Approved joining with other schools in the district in a cooperative agreement to share a school psychologist under a LEASE umbrella program. McCracken thanked long-time school psychologist Gene Randolph who wanted to retire

Friday, April 3rd

MARSHALL-PUTNAM FAIR

Doors open: 6PM Euchre Tournament: 7PM • $5 Entry

Spaghetti Dinner Benefit

Non-tax supported district

HOST YOUR NEXT EVENT AT PCCC! PCCC is a great place to host showers, parties or presentations!

Amenities include: ✓ Handicap accessible

✓ Visual & sound system

✓ Wi-Fi

✓ Large, comfortable space

✓ Ample seating

✓ Equipped kitchen

PCCC offers building rental at an affordable rate.

Please call the Center for more information. *Certain groups are eligible for building rental at no cost.* (815) 339-2711

Putnam County Community Center

The board approved advertising for two teachers as a fail-safe but will not vote on the additional hiring until the April 13 meeting.

“Just advertising for the position does not obligate us to fill it,” Superintendent Jay McCracken said.

In other action, the board: • Approved the purchase and installation of a new sound system for the high school at a cost of $24,003.72. The cost of the system will be paid out of surplus monies in the technology budget. Work will be

Putnam County Community Center 128 First St., Standard www.pcaservices.org

Help Support our Fair:

Monday, March 30, 2015

Club LaCon Restaurant • Rt 26 Lacon, IL Serving 4:30 - 8:00 pm $8.00 all ages

for his years of service. Randolph will still be available to assist the school as needed.

• Approved the 2015-16 fiscal year calendar.

• Rehired all first-, second- and third-year teachers. Fourth-year teachers Tyler Ellena, John Heiser and Jessica Lenkaitis were also rehired and granted tenure.

• Rehired all licensed teaching personnel, support personnel and nonunion personnel. The rehiring of administrators was tabled until April due to the possibility of a retirement.

“Barn in the USA-Fair”

July 8-12 2015 See You There!

Dinner tickets are available at the door or are available now from any board member.

Draw Down Benefit $1,500 Top Prize • Only 300 tickets sold • $20 per chance

Tickets are available from any board member or by contacting the fair office at 309-364-2814.

Drawing will be held during dinner

Hennepin United Methodist Church

March 27, 2015 4:30 -7:00 P.M.

5th & Court St., Hennepin, IL 61327

Adults: $8.00 Children: $4.00 (5-12 years) 4 & Under: Free Carry Outs Available in the Church Building East Entrance

Join Us For: Fried Fish, Potato Salad, Cole Slaw, Italian Bread, & Homemade Cake

Wednesday, March 25, 2015 • The Putnam County Record • 5

Deadlines drawing near for ARC, PLC HENRY — U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Marshall-Putnam County Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director Sarah Knapp reminds agricultural producers March 31 is the deadline to update your yields, reallocate base and elect agriculture risk coverage (ARC) and price loss coverage (PLC).

Don’t lose your chance to elect ARC or PLC and qualify for 2014 payments.

If payments are earned, they will be paid fall 2015.

Remember the USDA no longer has direct payments.

Landowners need to update farm yield history and/or reallocate crop base acres.

Producers need to make

a one-time election of ARC or PLC for 2014-18 crop years.

If you miss the March 31 deadline, your farm will not be eligible for 2014 crop year ARC or PLC payments, and your only option will be to enroll your farm in PLC for the 2015-18 crop years and not ARC. Your farm’s current counter-cyclical yield and base acres will be used for PLC. For questions on this or any FSA program, including specific base reallocation, yield or election questions, contact the Marshall-Putnam County FSA office at 309-364-3913 or seek information online at www.fsa.usda.gov/arcplc.

Three promoted at LaSalle State Bank LASALLE — LaSalle State Bank has announced three promotions, which were effective Jan. 1.

Jeffrey D. Ellis became the seventh president in the 121-year history of the bank. Previously, Ellis had served in the role of senior vice president and senior loan officer. He has extensive experience, both in bank management and as a commercial loan officer. Ellis holds a bachelor of finance degree from Miami University and earned his MBA from the University of Iowa.

Additionally, Michael C. Benjamin, CPA, was promoted to the position of executive vice president and chief financial officer.

He has held the position of chief financial officer at the bank since 2011.

Prior to that, he served as the bank’s controller.

He received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from St. Joseph’s College along with completing the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University.

Lastly, Christopher L. Duncan was promoted to

vice president and senior loan officer. In his new role, he will oversee all of the bank’s lending activities. Previously, Duncan held the position of credit analyst and commercial loan officer at the bank.

He has several years of experience in both the lending and trust areas.

He received his bachelor of finance degree from the University of Notre Dame.

Chairman of the Board of Directors of LaSalle State Bank John S. Duncan III said, “We are pleased to be able to announce these three promotions. These three individuals, along with Vice President of Retail Banking and Compliance Amy Moskalewicz, comprise the bank’s senior management team.

We are very confident in their ability to lead our organization and to continue to provide LaSalle State Bank’s valued customers with exceptional products and services.”

LaSalle State Bank’s main location is at 654 First St. in LaSalle. LaSalle State Bank has branches in LaSalle, Peru and Utica.

MAGNOLIA CEMETERY

SPRING CLEAN UP

MARCH 30TH

Fiber network enhances NCBHS mental health outreach Technology made possible by the iFiber network has allowed North Central Behavioral Health Systems (NCBHS) to greatly expand mental health services across eight Illinois counties.

“Telehealth services have been expanded and enhanced, providing better services to clients in our remote offices and creating access to more individuals here and those in crisis at area hospital emergency departments,” said Donald Miskowiec, president and CEO of the LaSalle-based system.

“The bandwidth and high-speed connections enabled us to invest in additional video-conferencing equipment, allowing our iFiber-connected remote offices to see a much faster response when using all of our available network resources,” added Jodi Mahoney, vice president and chief operating officer.

Mahoney and Pat Brust, network administrator, recently demonstrated a Polycom video-conferencing system set up in the LaSalle office and duplicated in seven of its eight NCBHS’ locations.

In addition to utilizing

(since 2002), NCBHS now takes advantage of the added bandwidth available through the iFiber network to maintain and transmit data without delays or quality issues.

NCBHS has offered telehealth services for many years, first relying on T1 lines and then a T3 line before iFiber’s network became available.

Miskowiec and Mahoney sit on a telehealth sub-committee of the Illinois’ Governor’s Office of Health Information Technology (GOHIT) that among other things looks at use of telehealth in hospitals, which is something NCBHS does.

From January-September 2014, NCBHS conducted 321 TLV sessions with the eight hospitals it serves.

Each emergency department has a laptop with the software platform on it that can connect to NCBHS’ access center.

Through telehealth, NCBHS staff can deliver crisis assessments at any time. Mahoney said it has helped improve patient flow in the emergency departments because travel time for counselors is not involved.

Because NCBHS has been serving clients via telehealth methods for

many years, Mahoney said it has gained valuable experience in effective treatment. NCBHS follows guidelines established by the American Telemedicine Association, which help with properly engaging individuals being treated via telehealth. NCBHS shares its knowledge and experience in telehealth treatment as a presenter at national conferences.

NCBHS also has clients in a permanent supported housing program who may not be able to leave their homes for one reason or another. A case manager visits the homes, but then once a month helps the client connect with their counselors via the telehealth method.

“Individuals we serve through the Therapy Live Visit have all given us positive feedback about using this technology for their treatment,” said Mahoney.

NCBHS also uses telehealth to deliver its specialty addictions intensive outpatient therapy program. In addition, its eight-bed CILA mental health residential facility utilizes telehealth methods to connect regularly to a group leader at an NCBHS office.

Johnston joins Land Pro LLC OSWEGO — Leslie H. “Chip” Johnston, real estate broker, has joined Land Pro LLC, a land real estate brokerage company, in December 2014 and provides brokerage services for the North Central portion of Illinois.

Born and raised on a farm outside of Princeton, Johnston has been around the farm all of his life. Upon graduation from Southern Illinois University, Johnston had many years of experience in sales and sales management. He furthered his education by completing courses in business development, customer satis-

faction and agricultural real estate. In January 2015, Johnston completed the requirements for the real estate managing broker’s license.

Johnston worked for 24 Johnston years at Pioneer Hi-Bred International Inc., most recently as the district sales manager for four counties in the north central region of Illinois.

From 1999 until 2014, Johnston was a real estate broker with Capital Agricultural Property Services

Serving: 11:30AM to 1:30PM 1 Chop dinner: $9.00 • 2 Chop dinner: $11.00 Children 10 and under: $4.00 Carryouts add .50¢ Grilled Butterfly Pork Chop, Mashed Potatoes, Salad, GreenBeans, Rolls & Homemade Desserts

TRI-COUNTY AUTO SALES 2007 Jeep Compass $4,995 2007 Dodge Caravan $3,995

Issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL

012014-00282AC

to the Land Pro team,” said Ray Brownfield, Land Pro managing broker and opener. “Chip brings tremendous experience, knowledge and is respected throughout the industry for his honesty, integrity and accomplishments. Chip genuinely shares our goal of being a professional land real estate specialist.”

Land Pro LLC is a land real estate brokerage company that also offers land-focused services including auctions, property management and consulting. For more information, visit www. landprollc.us.

Granville United Church of Christ SUNDAY, MARCH 29, 2015

Magnolia Cemetery Association Board

Keep your vehicle new

Inc. (CAPS). During his years with CAPS, Johnston helped farmers and investors acquire more than $85 million in agricultural real estate.

Johnston has served as vice president of the Princeton Public Schools Foundation Board of Directors and been involved with the American Heart Association, Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, Wild Turkey Federation and Princeton Chamber of Commerce.

He currently lives in Princeton with his wife, Marilyn.

“We are very excited to welcome Chip Johnston

Palm Sunday Butterfly Pork Chop Dinner

Spring clean up of the cemetery begins March 30th. All winter decorations are to be removed.

Items to be saved should be removed before this time. Any items remaining are assumed not wanted and will be disposed of by the grounds keeper.

With the Keeper®, if the cost of repairs exceeds the cost of a new vehicle, same make and model, we will replace your vehicle with a new one. Talk to your COUNTRY Financial representative about protecting what’s important to you.

Matthew Hostetter Granville 815-339-6136 matt.hostetter@ countryfinancial.com

Polycom, NCBHS uses the software platform Therapy Live Visit (TLV). The software, in conjunction with video equipment, allows therapists to talk to, counsel and evaluate patients off-site.

The video-conferencing equipment also enables interactive staff meetings, training and webinars involving NCBHS’ 140 staff members located in LaSalle, Ottawa, Streator, Princeton, Canton, Macomb, Toulon and Lacon. All sites connect into the main LaSalle office, with the LaSalle, Ottawa and Streator sites being connected to the fiber network.

NCBHS serves about 5,000 clients a year with a broad range of mental health and addictions services for individuals and families. Its services include counseling for those experiencing common issues like depression, anxiety and stress, to those needing intensive mental health or substance use programs, medication management, psycho-social rehabilitation, community and home support, or a variety of other specialized services.

As an early adopter of electronic health records

339-6165 Rt. #71 • Standard, IL

2007 Chevy Uplander Loaded $3,595

2007 Ford F-150 6 Cyl, Auto $4,995

2006 GMC Envoy Loaded $4,995

2003 Ford F-150 4x4, 5-Speed $3,995

6 • The Putnam County Record • Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Meeting minutes IVCC Board OGLESBY — The Illinois Valley Community College board recognized a pair of faculty members Thursday, March 12, for teaching excellence.

Trustees will nominate 24-year criminal justice and forensics program coordinator Rebecca Donna for the 2015 Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA) outstanding faculty award and developmental math instructor Dan Serafini for the ICCTA’s part-time faculty award.

Donna recently won IVCC’s Stephen Charry Memorial award for teaching excellence after being nominated by four colleagues and two students. Nominators said Donna provides students’ real-world criminal justice experiences and exposes them to employment opportunities in the courts and in policing, probation, social work and security.

Colleague Sue Caley Opsal said Donna challenges students to design a prison from the ground up.

“If a project such as this fails to get a student to think beyond the curriculum, I cannot imagine anything that would,” said Caley Opsal.

Current president of the American Federation of Teachers Union Local 1810 and past vice president, Donna was credited for playing a critical role in negotiations on the current faculty contract.

Prior to coming to IVCC, Donna taught at Murray State University, Illinois State University, Rend Lake Community College and Lincoln College. She holds an AAS in forensics, a BS in corrections and a master’s in criminal justice from ISU and a Ph.D. in sociology from Southern Illinois University. A lifelong learner, she recently completed training to become a police officer.

Serafini earned the outstanding parttime faculty member award for helping lead the successful Fast Track Math program which enables students to take a four-week review course to prepare for credit-level math.

Serafini’s ability to make complex concepts understandable has led to high completion rates in the program, nominators said. He is also a math discussion leader for IVCC’s Bridging the Gap initiative with district high school math teachers and is credited with creating “a culture of mutual respect and understanding” between college and high school faculty.

Serafini has also volunteered to reach out to middle schools to promote college readiness and has proposed regional teacher’s meetings to allow junior high teachers to identify specific areas they may need assistance.

March 12’s meeting began with a

Putnam County Court

moment of silence for Connie Skerston, assistant director of admissions and records, who died the previous week at 45 years old. Skerston began working at IVCC in 1998.

“She was loved by all and will be missed by everyone,” said IVCC President Jerry Corcoran.

In other business, the board approved: • The retirement of world languages instructor Anna Pietrolonardo and the resignation of math instructor Cynthia Schultz; both are effective Aug. 7.

• A $356,286 contract with Seamless Cellular for installation of a cell phone distributed antenna system (DAS) for high-quality voice and data service for multiple carriers. Building-to-building roaming will allow first responders and administrators to stay connected during emergencies.

• Support for a regional 911 dispatch center to be located south of the college barn. The Illinois Valley Regional Dispatch Center Planning Board, which includes police and fire representatives from LaSalle, Peru and Oglesby, has secured a $1.5 million grant for construction of a 5,000-square-foot facility. Other entities are being encouraged to join the initiative.

The board also learned: • Tina Hardy has been hired as full-time disability services coordinator. Hardy has worked 14 years in the program.

• Lyle Guenther of Ottawa, a volunteer tennis coach the past two years under Julie Milota, has resigned. While attending IVCC predecessor LPO Junior College, Guenther played on the school’s first tennis team.

• Ottawa is considering donating a used ambulance to IVCC for the Emergency Medical Services program. Corcoran credited Andy Borkowsky, Sue Isermann, Bonnie Campbell, Cheryl Roelfsema and Reed Wilson for working closely with the city on the potential donation. “We are grateful for their thoughtfulness and commitment to our EMS program being the best it can be,” Corcoran said.

• IVCC received the certificate of achievement for excellence in financial reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association for the 21st straight year and the GFOA distinguished budget award for the seventh straight year. In addition, the college was one of only five community colleges in Illinois to receive the Tree Campus Award.

• Former Lt. Gov. Shelia Simon will deliver the May 16 commencement address. “She was a very active Lt. Governor and a huge supporter of community colleges,” said Corcoran. “In fact, she visited all of Illinois’ 48 community colleges and is married to a community college professor.”

¢ per lb.

153 Canal St. • LaSalle, IL • 815-223-0322

OPEN MON-FRI 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. • SAT 8 - 11:30 a.m.

(Price Subject to Change) Must Present Coupon

Village Hall 815-339-6333 villageofgranville@mchsi.com m or message us at our Facebook Paage

Deadline to have your address added to the map is APRIL 16TH.

LASALLE — Lt. Jon Dively, District 17 Commander, has announced the addition of five new state troopers to District 17 who recently graduated the Illinois State Police Academy on Friday, March 13.

Trooper Timothy Black, Trooper Sam Cade, Trooper Brad Gapinski, Trooper Nicholas Pagano and Trooper Matthew Smith will patrol in LaSalle, Bureau and Putnam counties once they complete the 12-week field

training program.

Those interested in joining the ranks of the Illinois State Police are encouraged to visit the Illinois State Police Merit Board website at www. illinoistrooper.com for application information.

Illinois State Police announce roadside safety check results LASALLE – The Illinois State Police (ISP) announced the results of a roadside safety check (RSC) held during the late evening hours of Saturday, March 14, and the early morning hours of Sunday, March 15.

The detail was conducted at Route 251 at North 25th Road by ISP District 17 officers.

Alcohol is involved in nearly 40 percent of fatal

crashes in Illinois. RSCs are designed to remove alcohol-impaired drivers.

However, when other violations are observed such as driving with a suspended or revoked license, operating a vehicle without a valid registration or insurance, or safety belt violations, enforcement action may be taken.

The following citations were issued at the safe-

ty check: Three written warnings for registration offenses; three citations for driver’s license offenses; two citations for occupant restraint offenses; one arrest for driving under the influence; one arrest for other alcohol/drug violations.

There were 10 total citations/arrests made during this RSC and 19 written warnings total.

CHARMING HOME! Granville - Clean 2 bedroom with open living room/kitchen floor plan, full basement, fenced yard. $59,000 MLS#08856085

Gonet Realty & Land Co.

321 S. McCoy St. Granville 339-2411

815-339-2411

Hur y in for our

S

AN THIN NG GOES SALE!!

!!

(815) 339-2345

BUCKMAN IRON & METAL

If you would like your address added to our FREE Map please contact us at:

Cedar Point, fined $120.

Driving on suspended license Nicole M. Hess, 31, Hennepin, fined$870 plus 12 months supervision.

Possess drug paraphernalia Ryan J. Walsh, 23, Frankfort, fined $2,200 plus 12 months supervision.

District 17 receives five new troopers

Now until June 1st

Until May 30th

“ Family Owned & O erated ”

for 10 lbs. or more

April 24th & 25th

Kevin R. Maginn, 59, Bristol, Wis., fined $120.

Sarah R. Miller, 34, Henry, fined $120.

Martin K. Pazanin, 28, Champaign, fined $120.

Disregard stop sign Teresa R. Smith, 53, Lostant, fined $120.

Hunt others land without permission Michael A. Murgis, 33,

MOHAWK SALE!!

ALUMINUM CANS

62

The following fines and sentences were recently assessed in Putnam County Circuit Court.

Stop/stand/park/ non-business district Nicole M. Hess, 31, Hennepin, fined $120.

Driving 15 to 20 mph above the limit Michael F. Layfield, 31, Normal, fined $120.

GRANVILLE OWN WIDE AG S S

327 S. McCoy St., Granville, IL

Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri 9-5

• Thurs. 9-2 • Saturday 9 - Noon

SWING into

50

$

00

CAR DETAIL

Al C ioni Ford inC. oney No bal ni! with Al Cio

504 S. McCoy • Granville

815-339-2511

Visit us at: www.alcioniford.com

Wednesday, March 25, 2015 • The Putnam County Record • 7

Obituary Perry Wallin

15 businesses in compliance with underage restrictions

GRANVILLE — Perry E. Wallin, 79, of Granville died Friday, March 20, 2015, at his residence.

Perry was born June 5, 1935, in Granville to Edwin and Nellie (Sparling) Wallin. He married Carol Faletti on Oct. 8, 1960, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Granville and she passed away on May 18, 1994. He married Mary Helen Bunzell-Lunn on Aug. 19, 2000, at United Church of Christ in Granville.

He was a retired laborer and a member of Laborers International Union of North America for over 50 years. Perry was a member of Granville United Church of Christ.

Perry was a loving father and husband.

He loved to play euchre with his family and friends. Perry also enjoyed fishing and camping.

Surviving is his wife, Mary Helen Wallin Wallin of Granville; three sons, Scott Wallin of Peru, Mark Wallin of Peru and Tim Wallin of Granville; three stepsons, Kenneth Lunn, Mark (Tina) Lunn and Craig (Laura) Lunn; one stepdaughter, Missy (Chuck) George; three sisters, Marie Jeffrey of Granville, Evelyn Burress of Granville and Geraldine (Don) Sickley of Streator; one sister-in-law, Kathleen Wallin of Ottawa; four grandchildren, Ty, Kristi, Cody and Tanner Wallin; and 11 stepgrandchildren, Kenny, Jenell, Sam, Zach, Colton, Blake, Taylor and Haley Lunn, and Samantha, Billy and Michael George. Also surviving is his dog and best friend, (Jenny).

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife; two brothers, Gerald Wallin and Kenneth Wallin; one sister, Vickie Falleti; and a brother and sister, (they were twins that died at birth) Robert and Roberta.

Services were at 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, 2015, at the Dysart-Cofoid Funeral Chapel, Granville, with the Rev. Dr. Ron McNeill officiating. Cremation rites followed the service. Burial will be at a later date in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Granville.

Visitation was from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to ALS Foundation or St. Margaret’s Hospice.

Online condolences may be made to his family at www.dcfunerals.com.

On March 18, the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC), in conjunction with the Secretary of State Police, conducted 15 underage compliance checks. During the operation, there were nine prior violator(s) re-tested for compliance. All 15 establishments passed the compliance check by refusing to sell liquor to the ILCC underage participants.

Granville establishments checked were The Corner Store, Granville,

Big Shots, Granville BP Fast ‘N’ Fresh, Casey’s, Pagan O’Leary’s, Kaddywampus Sport Grill and PC Foods. Hennepin establishments Rolando’s Inc. and S.A.M.M.’S also passed. McNabb establishments checked were Da Rajun’ Cajun Bar & Grill, Kathy’s Korner Pub and Country Corner Convenience Store. Other Putnam County establishments in compliance were J.R.’s Chicago Street Pub in Magnolia, the Clover

Club in Mark and Bellino’s Tavern in Standard.

This report is a result of ongoing undercover and cooperative law enforcement operations conducted by agents of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC), local law enforcement officials and underage participants recruited from area high schools and colleges.

The teams randomly visit liquor stores, restaurants and bars in communities around the state to check

Property transfers The following property transfers were recently recorded in the office of the Putnam County Recorder of Deeds.

March 2 Elizabeth Bumgarner to William Shafer and Gloria Jean Shafer; Lot No. 21, Block No. 8 and part of Lot No. 19, Block No. 8, village of Hennepin with exceptions; $21,000.

Fannie Mae, also known as Federal National Mortgage Association to Michael H. Mucci and Joy E. Mucci; Lot No. 736, Lake Thunderbird Hills 3; $82,006.

Lynette K. Shimkus to Lynette K. Shimkus as trustee; rural property;

exempt.

March 4 Sydney Glover to Pamela Antolik-Lester; rural property; $60,000.

March 5 Doris A. Dissinger to Donna Zuniga, Barbara Schmitz, Robert Dissinger Jr., Linda Kozel and Shirley Pacetti; Lots No. 51 and 52, Archibald Hopkins Addition, village of Granville; exempt.

March 6 M & G Hay, Inc. to the Streator Company, an Illinois partnership; Lots No. 208 and 209, Haw’s Addition, village of Magnolia; exempt (re-record).

March 9 Heather M. Roach to Michael A. Hammen; Lot

No. 4, Lakeview Drive; $21,000.

Betty Burwell to Michael Pulliam; Lot No. 163, Lake Thunderbird Hills; $2,200.

March 12 Kate M. Thrall to Edward D. Weidner; Lot No. 622, Lake Thunderbird Woods 4; exempt.

Ronald A. Dobrydnia to Ronald S. Urnikis and Lynn E. Urnikis; Lot No. 172, Lake Thunderbird Woods; exempt.

Bruce R. Nowak to Patricia L. Nowak; Lot No. 330, Indian Hills; exempt.

Bruce R. Nowak to Patricia L. Nowak; Lot No. 331, Indian Hills; exempt.

for ongoing compliance with state laws mandating that no liquor is sold to persons under 21 years old. ILCC agents also work with local and state law enforcement agents to focus on communities with a high incidence of underage liquor sales.

For information about hearings regarding checks, visit the Illinois Liquor Control Commission’s website at http:// www.state.il.us/lcc/hearingsch02.asp.

Helmig license suspended GRANVILLE — Former Granville and Peru attorney Charles Helmig has had his Illinois license to practice law suspended for three years and until further order of the court.

The court charged Helmig used more than $82,000 belonging to an elderly, infirm client without authorization.

He also failed to participate and comply with an order in an administrative proceeding regarding the client’s delinquent balance for nursing home care.

Ptak Monuments 1026 4th Street, Peru 815 223 -017 72 Mark and Tom Ptak

Affiliated with Helmer Shields Funeral Home. Offering a full line of ranite Memorial Products.

For more information check out website at: PtakFh.com or call 815-223-0172..

Serving Putnam County & surrounding areas since 1919

Dysart-Cofoid

Specializing in Prearranged and Prepaid Funerals & Cremation Services Serving area families since 1913

Funeral Chapel

Serenity Monuments Unique designs with the traditions of the past.

We can duplicate any monument. Please contact us to assist you in designing your lasting tribute.

815-339-2231 www.dcfunerals.com

Janice Shields 815-339-6234

R.L. Cofoid, Director

Monday: Tacos- $1.50 each Tuesday: All-you-can-eat White Fish- $9 Wednesday: Wings They took care of you - Be sure to take care of them...

Thursday: Grill Special

now Weccept a

Bar and Restaurant Mark, IL • 815-339-6233 • www.cloverclub.net

318181

Hawthorne Inn Assisted Living at

Daily Social Activities • Personal Assistance with Daily Needs Medication Assistance • Private & Companion Suites Access to AJ’s - FREE on Site Fitness Center

Peru • Streator • Princeton | Not-For-Profit Provider 815-224-2200 • 815-672-1900 • 815-875-6600 www.simplythefinest.net

8 • The Putnam County Record • Wednesday, March 25, 2015

The Editorial Page

Sam R Fisher

Terri Simon

Publisher

Editor

A joint effort As of Thursday, Feb. 26, Washington D.C., ironically, broke step with the federal government and became the latest state-level entity to legalize recreational usage of marijuana. This despite pressure from the Republican party in the form of a “If you do this, we won’t like it” plea.

The District of Columbia joins Washington, Colorado and Alaska as places where pot has been decriminalized. In July, Oregon will join that number after passing its own voter-initiated reforms. Not surprisingly, all five locations made the switch due to voters’ choice.

Next up is possibly Vermont, but an interesting change is happening in the Maple Syrup State. It’s not the voters who are pushing for reform. It’s the state legislature.

Sen. David Zuckerman is sponsorCOMMENTARY ing Senate Bill 95, which would allow recreational usage as well as home cultivation. In an interview with the Huffington Post, Zuckerman said he’s pursuing legalization because it’s simply a more rational approach to a substance that is in such widespread use today.

Nineteen states have legalized medical marijuana with 15 more considering the issue in this year’s legislative agendas. Mississippi considered medical marijuana, but the bill proposing its use died in committee. Twelve additional states are considering keeping the drug illegal but softening penalties for usage.

The common view the “war on drugs” has for the most part failed is possibly part of the reason pot is being decriminalized, but there’s a bigger driving force for some states.

Money.

The allure of tax revenues is becoming a powerful selling point in some states since Colorado Gov. John W. Hickenlooper told the New York Times taxes from legal marijuana sales would be $134 million in the coming fiscal year, much higher than had been predicted when the measure was passed in 2012.

Although the federal government still considers pot illegal, President Barack Obama has stated his administration will not actively oppose an individual state’s decision. However, Loretta Lynch, his choice for Attorney General, feels differently, insisting marijuana should stay a Schedule 1 drug, the category for the most dangerous drugs.

The U.S. spent billions of dollars in the war on drugs, but the law of commerce indicates the higher the supply, the lower the cost. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, the cost of cocaine is less than half what it was 30 years ago.

Marijuana was first criminalized during the Great Depression. Since then, penalties for usage have gone up, then gone down. Pardon the pun, but maybe it’s high time those penalties went up in smoke.

Ken Schroeder can be reached at kschroeder@putnamcountyrecord.com.

Ken Schroeder

First Amendment “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

Constitution of the United States, 1789

Letters policy Letters to the Editor should not be more than 500 words in length. Only one person can sign a Letter to the Editor. The author of the letter must include his/her name, hometown and telephone number. The author’s name and hometown will be published, however, the telephone number is only used to verify the authenticity of the author’s signature and will not be published. Unsigned letters are never read or published. No letter will be published until The Putnam County Record contacts the author of the letter to verify the signature. The Putnam County Record reserves the right to edit or refuse any Letter to the Editor.

First Person Alexa Doll Town: Cherry.

Occupation: Event coordinator for Stone Jug Barb-B-Q. Family: Husband and two kids.

Pets: I have two cats and a dog.

What is the last book you read: “Entrepreneur.”

What is the last song you heard: “Sugar” by Maroon 5.

What is the last TV show you watched: “The Voice.”

If someone stranded you on a deserted island and you could only have one meal for the rest of your life what would it be: Bar-b-q.

If someone stranded you on a deserted island and you could take only one thing with you for the rest of your life, what would it be: My girls.

If someone handed you a million dollars, what would you do with it: Invest it.

Alexa Doll Name a favorite restaurant: Stone Jug Bar-B-Q. What do you like about your home town: The camaraderie.

Would you make any changes to your hometown: Add more music to it.

Over or under?

The other day on Facebook, I noticed that some friends of mine were having a lively discussion about an incredibly important topic that affects almost every citizen of this great nation. Since then, I’ve been hearing about it everywhere.

As an outspoken journalist type of guy, I feel it is my duty, from time to time, to discuss such hard-hitting, controversial subjects. Here goes ...

This is the question that was posed: How do you hang your toilet paper roll? With the roll unspooling over the top like regular, everyday, normal people or unspooling under, or to the rear of the roll like unstable, possibly psychotic people? Allow me to keep writing and chew up some column inches while you determine my stance on the subject.

I have spent a lot of time since then seated comfortably in my thinking chair, pondering this perplexing problem. So much so, that my wife and daughter have been known to knock on the door yelling some jibberishy nonsense about other people needing to use the bathroom. It’s difficult to figure out the world’s problems when living with such impatient, possibly small-bladdered folks.

During my exhaustive investigative research, which consisted of linking to a couple of Internet articles on the subject, I arrived at the conclusion that I really don’t like to read Internet articles very much.

I’m fairly confident that every one of these articles was going to prove that over the top is the proper toilet paper alignment. I’m usually correct on these assumptions.

In a further effort to better understand the situation, I decided to conduct a purely scientific survey. As I was getting my haircut today, I decided to ask the people congregated of their opinion on the subject. There were just two people — the woman who cuts my hair and some other lady.

When I asked, the haircutter said

Greg Wallace COMMENTARY

that she had no idea how she hangs the roll. As she went to check, the other woman agreed with me and said definitely over the top. When the barber returned, she informed us that the present roll was in the backwards position. And to think, I trust this lady with my beautiful, flowing hair!

Now the way I see it, the one lady inhales dangerous chemicals all day long while doing permanents and whatever it is that they do over in that pedicure foot bath thingy.

Keeping that in mind, I threw out her survey because she obviously wasn’t in a proper state of mind and probably shouldn’t be trusted.

Now the other lady, who agrees with me, is obviously coherent and much more able to make a logical decision. Her ballot was counted.

That means, in my survey, 100 percent of the non-possibly insane people polled, position their toilet paper in the over the top, or proper, position. Sorry all of you

wrong-hanging toilet paper folks, but numbers don’t lie.

I am proud to say I come from a long and noble lineage of over the toppers. For as long as I can remember, that’s the way it has been. I asked my 21 year old how he hangs his toilet paper roll. I became concerned when he said that he’s never really paid attention. He’s just happy when he looks over and sees that there is toilet paper on the roll holder. I thought back to when I was a 21-year old, bachelor, college student. I know what he’s talking about.

So I guess that the choice is up to you. Do what ever you want. You can go “over the top” which means to over exceed or you can go “from down under” which is synonymous with Australia, a British penal colony. Isn’t it great to live in a land of freedom?

I’m going to have to stop thinking about this for now. The daughter is banging on the door, and it feels like my legs might have fallen asleep. By the way, with an iPad, you can write a column just about anywhere.

You can contact Wallace at gregwallaceink7@gmail.com. You can follow him on his blog at http:// gregwallaceink.blogspot.com.

Wednesday, March 25, 2015 • The Putnam County Record • 9

Girls softball stepping into the ‘spring’ of things

By Dixie Schroeder

dschroeder@putnamcountyrecord.com

GRANVILLE — They are young and dangerous at Putnam County, and coach Chris Walker doesn’t mind it one bit. The 2015 edition of Lady Panther softball has been hard at work practicing for a killer schedule.

The Lady Panthers are going to have a lot of new faces in the starting line up due to the graduation of seven starters from the 2014 team. These changes don’t seem make a difference to Walker.

“We have some nice flexibility this season. We have Ciera Keller behind the plate. We can have Allison Voss behind the plate, then we have Paige Veronda, a freshman. They are all going to see some time for me there throughout the season,” Walker said. “All three are going to be really flexible.

Allison will see some time at first. Ciera can play the outfield, first and catch, and Paige can go anywhere you ask her to.”

Offensively, Walker is looking to returning senior Annie Miller to anchor the lineup. She was one of the leading hitters for the Panthers in the 2014 season.

“She is a pretty amazing hitter,” Walker said. “We will complement her with Allison who has a strong bat, and Jackie Ossola will be in there swinging. Then we will need to find a combination that works best for us in regards to the batting order.”

Walker admits it is a different kind of team from last

PCR photos/Dixie Schroeder

Above, Putnam County freshman Alivia Resurreccion participates in an early season indoor practice.

Left, senior Jackie Ossola (front) runs for a ground ball during indoor practice this month. The Lady Panthers boast 25 student athletes between varsity and junior varsity squads. year.

“I will admit while they are different, it is enjoyable to come to practice. They are very cooperative, they work hard, they jump when you ask them to jump. They do what they need to do,” Walker said. “The more days we practice, the better I feel about them. There will obviously have to be some give and take.”

Pitching is another area where the Lady Panthers,

while starting over, seem to have a lot of talent.

“It’s pretty hotly contested right now. They are all doing pretty well. We have three freshmen and a senior. That is nice because no matter what, we will have two per team on any given day. What we will do with the freshmen is rotate them on a regular basis where Jackie (Ossola) will always have somebody with her on any given day,” Walker said.

“Aleceya Davis will start up first, then we will run a week shot at a time and rotate them through. By the time the regional comes around, all three will dress for varsity.”

Allison Voss is pretty excited for her senior season.

“I think we have a lot of talent. We have a lot to work with. While we lost seven starters, I feel that there are a lot of juniors that are ready to step it up and take over

those positions along with seniors,” Voss said. “Last year, I played almost strictly outfield but I can play wherever I am needed.”

Walker is joined by assistant coach Lynette Olson.

Former players Kayla Harris-Smith and Angie Augspols round out his coaching staff. Augspols will also lead the junior varsity squad.

Other team members include Taylor Kreiser, Shyan Kreoger, Kate Leitner,

Kali Pettit and Allie Pletsch.

Junior varsity players include Katelyn Edgecomb, Jordyn Friel, Olivia Holmes, Ashley Johnson, Lindsey Maggio, Sydney Pederson, Alivia Resurreccion, Brea Schorn, Hannah Son, Natasha Voss and Carleigh Wellenreiter.

“I really feel that we have a nucleus down the stretch where we can be pretty awesome, pretty darn competitive,” Walker said.

Putnam County Panther boys track off and running

By Dixie Schroeder

dschroeder@putnamcountyrecord.com

GRANVILLE — The numbers are up for the Putnam County boys track team this season. The middle distance events look strong, according to head coach Chuck McConnell.

“I really think our strength is going to be in mid distance,” he said. “The 400 and 800. But we will also have some nice distance runners that will pick up with the mile and the two mile.”

McConnell also said his sprinters are looking strong this season.

“We have a strong variety of boys this season. We have some sprinters, some mid distance and long distance kids. It’s all good,” he said.

With 12 students on the Panther team, McConnell said they are all going to be active. Each Panther runner has their specialty, but McConnell will be planning on them participating in other events as well.

“I even have my shot and discus people with Seth Carlson and Luke Griffith,” he said. “So we are going to be able to cover a lot of events.”

McConnell said his team is young and talented with the only senior being Mario Flores this year. While early in the season, he has very high hopes for leadership on the team and results on the track.

Three of the members of the team that embody a strong work ethic include Flores and sophomores Jon Sabotta and PCR photo/Dixie Schroeder Noe Flores.

“I hope we can go as far as we can,” Putnam County High School Panther track members include Owen Mallory (left) and Mario said. “Wrestling for me came from Dominic Green. The students are shown at an early season practice. The Panthers’ first just leaving it all out there on the mat, meet is March 28 in Normal.

and I can tell you that I liked being 24th in state in my weight class. I feel the same with track. We all should just be leaving it all out there on the track, trying our best. It’s my last year, so it is all or nothing. I will probably be running the 300-meter hurdles and some relays.”

According to Mario, hurdles was just a thing that McConnell put him in one time, and he found out that he really liked it.

“I was good at it, so I just stuck to it,” Mario said.

Noe feels like he is ready for the next step with his running against a tough older group of area runners.

“We have more kids out this year. I’m really looking forward to seeing how our relays are going to do. I really feel like we can get an improvement on last year.

I can still see Al Baldonado and those other great distance runners from last year again in the mile. I’m really hoping to improve on that and get under 4:50 this year ... for the 400-meter dash, I’m aiming for :55 seconds or lower,” Noe said.

Sabotta is one of the long distance runners McConnell and the Panthers are counting on.

“I will be in the one mile and two mile this year,” Sabotta said. “In some meets I’ll do the 4x800. In relays, you have to know your teammates well to know when to get the baton and when to pass it off and all.”

The rest of the team includes Ryan Caufield, Dominic Green, Jimmy Hewitt, Isaac Leal, Owen Mallery, Drake Soule and Jarod Williams.

“I have a young group, but it’s a great group of kids,” McConnell said.

10 • The Putnam County Record • Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Community

Putnam County Rotary blood drive April 3

Spaghetti dinner benefit LACON — The Marshall-Putnam Fair’s 18th annual spaghetti dinner benefit will be at Club LaCon Restaurant on Monday, March 30. Dinner includes spaghetti, bread, salad, dessert and coffee or tea.

Dinner will be served from 4:30 to 8 p.m., and carry-outs are also available at the back door of Club LaCon. Tickets are $8 and can be purchased from any board member or at the door.

Palm Sunday dinner GRANVILLE — Granville United Church of Christ will have its Palm Sunday pork chop dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 29. A single pork chop dinner is $9, and a two-chop din-

ner is $11. Carry-outs are $.50 extra. Dinner includes pork chops, homemade mashed potatoes and gravy, tossed salad, green bean casserole, dessert and drink. Call 815-3392305 for more information.

Lenten services continue Seven area churches in Bureau and LaSalle counties are joining together again to host Ecumenical Lenten services.

The services are held at a different host church each week, and each week the pastors from the churches participate in the service. Also each week, a different pastor preaches the message for the service.

The services for Friday, April 3, will be at noon at Cherry United Church of Christ, Route 89, Cherry (Cherry and DePue UCC churches are

yoked churches) and at 7 p.m. at First Congregational Church of LaSalle, Fifth and Joliet streets, LaSalle.

There will be no meal at either location.

The theme for the 2015 Lenten Services is “Truly, I Say to You,” and each pastor will use different scriptures to explore these words spoken by Jesus Christ.

For more information, call the Rev. Kay Harding, interim pastor, Zion United Church of Christ at 815-223-2671. The event is open to the public.

GRANVILLE — Putnam County Rotary’s annual Good Friday blood drive will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Friday, April 3, at the Putnam County High School in Granville. The annual Red Cross event is hosted

by Putnam County Rotary with help from members of the PCHS Interact Club, Rotary’s high school affiliate.

The Red Cross reports there is an

urgent need for blood donations at this time. All members of the community are asked to donate.

Donors may donate on a “walkin” basis or may reserve a specific time by calling 800-733-2767 or visit www.redcrossblood.org.

A photo identification is required to donate, and there is a 56-day wait between donations. Sixteen-year-

old donors must have signed parental permission to donate. Parental permission forms are available at the high school or by email request to PutnamCountyRotary@gmail. com.

In addition to saving lives, blood donations will also increase the size of Red Cross scholarship funds donated to PCHS this spring.

Registration open for Girl Scout summer camps SPRINGFIELD — Girls of all ages are invited to register for Girl Scout Summer Camp. Girl Scouts of Central Illinois (GSCI) has opened registrations for a variety of summer camps and activities at four regional camp sites throughout central Illinois. Girls in grades 1-12 have the opportunity to spend their summer horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, swimming, backpacking and camping among other activities. Camp is one of several pathways through which girls can develop their inherent leadership skills in Girl Scouts, as they experience independence, develop new skills, and learn to live in harmony with the environment.

Camps are open to all girls, including non-Girl Scouts. Financial assistance is available. The deadline for registration is two weeks prior to each session, and camp sessions start as early as June 4.

“Experiencing the outdoors is a great way for girls to explore leadership, build skills, develop an appreciation of nature and create life long memories and friendships,” Girl Scouts of Central Illinois CEO Pam Kovacevich said. “The experiences girls have at summer camp are

designed to develop leadership and independence as well as boost their confidence.”

Resident camp sessions are available at two camp sites: GSCI’s newest camp, Camp SOAR located near Litchfield, and Camp Tapawingo in Metamora.

Day Camp opportunities are available at two GSCI Camp properties as well as the Decatur Urban Program Center: Camp Kiwanis in Mahomet, adjacent to Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve, and Camp Widjiwagan located on Lake Springfield. Day camps are the perfect starter camp and before and after care is included at no additional cost.

Resident camp is a camping experience in which campers live at camp, typically for a week. Girls sleep in platform tents (Tapawingo) or in climate-controlled indoor cabins/bunkhouses (Camp SOAR) with other girls and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities during their stay.

Campers can go horseback riding, boating, canoeing and hiking, enjoy archery and arts and crafts and take on our challenge course. They may attend as individual campers or go with a buddy. The girls and their

counselors plan activities and take advantage of the many resources available at camp.

Mini resident camps are a great way to try out residential camp and gain the experience of staying away from home while having new and exciting adventures usually for three days. Activities include exploring the outdoors, going on scavenger hunts, making hands-on crafts, writing fantastic fiction, swimming, hiking, boating and working on puzzle and riddle challenges.

Day camp is the perfect starter camp for girls who want to get comfortable in the outdoors and who are interested in exploring new activities close to home. Before and after care is available at all day camps at no additional charge. Girls may attend day camp as individual campers or go with buddies. The girls and staff plan and carry out activities. Day camp is held at our camp sites as well as in our council communities with council-trained staff.

For more information or a copy of the activity guide or to register for camp, visit www.GetYourGirlPower. org or to request a copy of the camp guide be emailed to you, contact GSCI at gsci@girlscouts-gsci.org.

Alaskan Walleye (Alaskan Pollack) Season Ending Soon!

Saralyn K. Shetterly Asst. Vice-President NMLS #461067

• Loans to purchase, build, or refinance • First-Time Home Buyer Program available • In-house servicing on all loans

Family Style This Friday March 27th: will include: Alaskan Walleye Dinner 3 pieces of Fish, Fries, Angel Hair Pasta, $8.95 Garlic Bread & choice Family Style Dinner of Salad, Coleslaw or Cottage Cheese! $11.95

Reminder: Closed Wednesday's while Shelly is furthering her education for future needs

And as always, Thank you for

Call Saralyn at 815-223-0700

250 Marquette St., LaSalle, IL 61301 www.eurekasavings.com

supporting us thru the years MEMBER FDIC

815-339-6577 • Corner of Milwaukee St. & IL 71, Mark, IL

Be Prepared For Power Outages Plus Get A Great Warranty On Honeywell!

5-YEAR PARTS WARRANTY WITH A 5-YEAR LABOR WARRANTY Differentiators

Generators

Standard: Mobile Link™ ($300 Value) - Not available on other Generac models Standard: 5 Year Parts & 5 Year Labor Warranty ($400 Value) vs. Generac 3 Yr Parts & 1 Yr Labor Standard: Facia Cover Around Bottom of Unit ($80 Value)- minimizes small animals nesting Standard: Aluminum Enclosure vs. steel - Eliminates rust issue Standard: Quieter Weekly Exercise Call Us For Standard: GFCI Outlet for Convenience and Safety etails!

KETTMAN HEATING & PLUMBING, INC. 815-339-6124

D

24 Hour Service Lic. #058-179011

107 E. Harrison Court • Granville, IL • www.kettmanheating.com

WANTED: Dirty Carpets

us PlFREE SCOTCHGARDING

2 Rooms

3 Rooms

5 Rooms

Reg. $149.95

Reg. $169.95

Reg. $205.95

$105

$125

$155

Low Moisture Cleaning

What is it? • Cleaning using a low amount of moisture with no rinsing Why use it? • Quick drying time -90 minutes or less! • No open doors or hoses • Uses 5-10% of water compared to hot water extraction • Enviromentally friendly and safe cleaning

Oxy Green Carpet Cleaning McNabb, IL 61335

(309) 740-4470 • (815) 882-2150 www.oxygreenillinois.com Ken Troyan, Owner/ Operator

Wednesday, March 25, 2015 • The Putnam County Record • 11

Births Announced Urnikis Eric and Brooke (Michaelson) Urnikis of Granville are the parents of a daughter born March 9 at St. Margaret’s Hospital in Spring Valley.

Gensini Matthew and Rebecca (Baker) Gensini of Granville are the parents of a daughter born March 15 at Illinois Valley Community Hospital in Peru.

Sharp Amber Sharp of Utica is the parent of a daughter, Adalynn Marie, born March 12 at St. Margaret’s Hospital in Spring Valley. She weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce and measured 19 1/2 inches in length. Grandparents are Michael Sharp and Kimberly Sharp of Utica. Greatgrandparents are Wilma Sharp of Peru, and David Clary and Carol Clary of Alto, N.M.

Smith Nikki Rose and Josh Smith of Peru are the parents of a daughter, Avaleighna Rose Donna, born March 13 at St. Margaret’s Hospital in Spring Valley. She weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces and measured 19 inches in length.

She was welcomed home by one brother, Alexzander Hurr, 7, and one sister, Aubreanna Smith, 9. Maternal grandparents are Donna Rose and Kendra Ewing. Greatgrandparents are Russel Peel of Serena, Zona Heffron of Peoria, Bill Sharp of Oak Hill and Judy Sharp of Oak Hill. Avaleighna was born on Friday the 13th.

to the public. At 4 p.m. Friday, April 10, the Granville Library branch will hold this class. The Magnolia Library branch will host the class at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 11.

Breakfast March 30 — French toast with syrup or cereal, fruit, juice, milk.

March 31 — Sausage and toast or cereal, fruit, juice, milk.

April 1 — Scrambled eggs with whole grain English muffin or cereal, fruit, juice, milk. — 2 p.m. dismissal.

April 2 — Whole grain waffle with syrup or cereal, fruit, juice, milk.

April 3 — Spring break begins.

Lunch March 30 — Country fried steak, au gratin potatoes, mixed fruit, whole grain cookie, milk.

March 31 — Corn dog, baked beans, potato wedges, peaches, milk.

April 1 — Hamburger on whole grain bun, green beans, pineapple, graham crackers, milk. — 2 p.m. dismissal.

April 2 — Cheese pizza, salad, banana, ice cream cup, milk.

April 3 — Spring break begins.

March 30 – Meatballs with marinara sauce, garlic diced potatoes, green beans, Mandarin oranges, dinner roll.

March 31 – Baked ham, scalloped potatoes, carrots, applesauce, bread and butter, dessert.

April 1 – Not available at press time.

April 2 – Not available at press time.

April 3 – Not available at press time.

For reservations, call 800-757-4579 24 hours in advance of the day’s meal. The menu is subject to change. Meals are available to senior citizens 60 plus at no cost but donations are appreciated.

The meal program is partly funded by donations so they have a suggested donation of $5 per meal. for people over 60 at no cost. A $5 donation per meal is suggested. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m.

4-H Robotics Club prepares for competition April 12 The 4-H Robotics Club, “When Robits Attack” has a busy schedule this spring.

The 4-H Robotics Club participates in 4-H robotics as well as FTC (First Tech Challenge) opportunities. The club will be providing demonstrations at the Museum of Science and Industry on Sunday, April 12, for National Robotics Week.

The group is also gearing up for the state 4-H Robotics Competition on Saturday, May 2. The seventh annual competition will take place in Champaign. It is an opportunity for youth enrolled in 4-H robotics to demonstrate their learning, celebrate their accomplishments and interact with others who share an interest in robotics.

The teams will complete the 2015 Illinois 4-H Robotics Challenge in which they will design an Olympic-themed field and robots will earn points for completing various Olympic style events.

“When Robits Attack” was recently awarded a 4-H Special Interest Club equipment grant for $1,000 that will assist the

Countryside Lawn Care Lawn Care & Landscape Maintenance

• Residential & Commercial • Fully Insured • Low Rates • Senior Discounts • Snow Removal

• Specializing in system tile jobs • Trencher • Tile plow • GPS mapping

Call Harold today!!

(309) 238-8625 Lacon, IL

Go e ou x s r pa e f s io s

C ll t day f r an a

Rural garbage pick-up will not be available effective March 25, 2015 for all Granville Township Roads. Dumpsters will be available at the Standard garage south of town from 7AM - 6PM seven days per week.

Garbage pick-up will resume April 30, 2015.

Carl Naumann Granville Township Road Commissioner Published in the Putnam County Record Mar. 25, 2015.

Go ood Friday Men’s Breakfast Friday, Apriil 3rd

6:30 am

Donations app preciated

Granville United Church 103 N. Ch hurch St., Granville, IL

VOTE FOR ca y by t.

intm nt!

Electronic filing available

i s& iates,

Offices in: Granville, Peru & Princeton

club in covering costs for their robots. The Illinois 4-H Foundation awards 4-H Special Interest Club Equipment Grants to encourage innovative local special-interest clubs that support positive youth development experiences for youth.

The 4-H Robotics Team FTC Team is coached by Terri Sancken. The club meets in Ottawa.

Members of the club include Chandlar Armstrong, Shelby Benedetti, Jason Bessett, Adam Cox, Andrew Elzer, Aiden Kennedy, Collin Nelson, Victor Nistor, Brent Sancken, Evan Schaibley and Nick Slagle.

To learn more about 4-H opportunities or to become a 4-H volunteer, contact the University of Illinois Extension, Bureau-LaSalle-Marshall-Putnam Unit at 815224-0889.

Anyone who needs a reasonable accommodation to participate, should indicate so when calling. Extension offices are located in Princeton, Ottawa, Henry and in Oglesby on the Illinois Valley Community College campus.

NOTICE

815-339-1074 • 815-760-0981

POIGNANT BROS. FARM DRAINAGE, INC

Ho

‘When Robits Attack’

Putnam County Community Center

Computer classes planned The Putnam County Library System will be hosting computer classes covering a variety of topics. Space is limited to four participants per class and registration is required.

The Putnam (Condit) branch will host “Navigate Your Digital Library -eBooks, music and more” at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 7. The Hennepin Library branch will also host this program at 3 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, as well. The McNabb Library branch will have this class at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8. At 1 p.m. Thursday, April 9, the Standard Library branch will offer the class

Menus and Activities Putnam County Schools

8115-339-6630

Robert “Bob”

FESCENMEYER For Granville Village Trustee

Honest H Dependable H On the People’s Side

H

Retired from Medical Administrator Blue Diamond Grower Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy

H

12 • The Putnam County Record • Wednesday, March 25, 2015

4-H members run the leadership race at conference held in Decatur

Luncheon and trunk show will be April 12 UTICA — The ladies of the Illinois Valley are invited to attend the seventh annual St. Margaret’s Luncheon and Trunk Show at 1 p.m. Sunday, April 12, at Celebrations 150 in Utica.

This show will benefit the ongoing projects of St. Margaret’s Foundation.

There will be 13 vendors showing their products, including St. Margaret’s Gift Shop, 22 Soap Company, Designs by Lynette, Fun Fashions, Kobilsek’s Wood Turning, LeSmith Design Room, Mary Kay consultant Pat English, Pro Muscle Care in Peru,

Scentsy, Tastefully Simple, 31 Bags, Trinkets & Treats, and Yoli Better Body System.

The ticket price of $15 includes a lunch buffet, chocolate dessert buffet table, refreshments and door prizes. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available at Hy-Vee Grocery and Hackman Insurance in Peru; Studio 718 and Tri-City Frock Shoppe in LaSalle; and Spring Valley City Bank and St. Margaret’s Gift Shop in Spring Valley.

For more information, call 815-664-7260.

RVP announces cast HENRY — “Bingo! The Winning Musical” tells the fun filled story of a group of ladies who have gathered together weekly for over a decade to play the game. The show shines a light on the people who flock to bingo halls across America to play and win the game.

Everyone, including the audience, will play Bingo for fun and prizes.

The Cast of “Bingo!

The Winning Musical” is Melanie Maskel as Vern, Amalia Heiser as Honey, Elizabeth Wild as Patsy, Deanne Crook as Alison,

Christine Gaspardo as Bernice, Elaine Bolen as Minnie, Gary Talsky as Sam/ Frank and Wally Gordon as Bingo Hall Janitor and assistant.

Performance dates are Saturdays, April 25, and May 2, dinner served at 6:30 p.m. followed by the show, Sunday, April 26, and May 3, dinner served at 12:30 p.m. followed by the show and Friday, May 1, at 7:30 p.m. with the show only.

Tickets go on sale to the public Wednesday, March 25. To reserve tickets, call Judy at 309-364-3403.

DECATUR — More than 100 seventh- and eighth-grade youth learned ways to improve their leadership skills at the 2015 Illinois 4-H Junior Leadership Conference held Feb. 28 and March 1 at the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel in Decatur.

Using an Olympic theme of “Dream. Lead.

Achieve,” the delegates came away with ways to improve their personal lives as well as their leadership skills they can take back to their 4-H clubs, communities and schools, said Debra Stocker, Extension specialist for 4-H Youth Development.

Local youth attending the conference included Justice Petersen and Rebecca Ramey of the Putnam County Progressors.

Judy Mae Bingman, media communications specialist for University of Illinois Extension, inspired the youth to run their own race in life.

She told the delegates the lessons she’s learned from running half marathons and how it relates to life in general. During her first race, she said she tried to run with

GET YOUR YARD IN SHAPE WITH THESE GREAT DEALS

19

YOUR CHOICE

LIFETIME WARRANTY

99

Roound-Point Digging Shovel T 132 052 B6 16--Tine Bow Rake T 132 059 B6 Square-Point Shovel T 132 066 B6 While supplies last.

Read Bros. Inc.

408 Edward St. Henry, IL 61537 ©2015 True Value® Company. All rights reserved.

FREE Shipping to our store on your TrueValue.com orders.

HiHART Available In The Following Areas:

Ottawa Streator Spring Valley Granville Varna Lake Wildwood

Seatonville Ladd Hollowayville Hennepin Mark McNabb

Lowell Utica Lostant Tonica Cedar Point Standard

• No contractts, e l a n me !

Bandwidth startt g at 4MG up to 40MG • $100 ins stall o upfront or o u es cal call c fie fi eld sup r te e m • wa in s me oc tion ns • usine pa av ble!

High-Speed Wirele ess Internet

Magnolia LaSalle Peru Oglesby Lamoille

Call: 815-368-374 44

a pace group at a speed which was too fast for her.

“I tried to keep up with them for about four miles, but realized that if I was going to finish the race at all, I had to start running my own race,” she said. “If you allow someone else to set your pace, you never finish where you’re meant to be.

“It’s OK to allow others to inspire you, to encourage you, to set an example for you,” she said. “But eventually, you have to run your own race.”

She encouraged the youth to look for ways to encourage others in life.

She said that near the end of her first race, she just didn’t think she could go another step until a stranger in the crowd called out “You can do this, Judy Mae,” reading her name off her race bib.

“From somewhere inside me, that encouraging voice gave me the strength to start running again,” Bingman said.

“Never underestimate the power of encouraging words of support to others.”

The delegates were able to put words into action Sunday morning by pack-

aging more than 10,000 meals for local families in cooperation with Illini Fighting Hunger. The youth worked in teams to form an assembly line which included putting soy protein, rice, dried vegetables and chicken bouillon in a bag before weighing and sealing the bag.

“Ingredients were produced locally,” Hunter Dyer, a 4-H Youth Leadership Team member said.

“Using locally produced ingredients stimulates the local economy while providing for those in the area who need food.

“It was great seeing the kids learn and work together,” Dyer said. “Seeing the whole assembly line work together so well and seeing them get so excited about helping others was truly inspiring.”

The conference was taught by members of the Illinois 4-H Youth Leadership Team, a team of uniquely-trained high school and college-aged 4-H members and young adult 4-H alumni.

In other workshops, delegates learned the function of biology in their daily lives; the

youth learned to prioritize responsibilities to become better leaders; learned to cast aside fear when speaking or performing in front of groups and learned to dress successfully for career opportunities. They also completed the National Youth Science Day experiment where they built rockets from throw-away materials.

Plenty of time was allowed for the teens to interact with other teenagers from across Illinois.

A portion of the conference expenses was covered by the Illinois 4-H Foundation who raises private funds to support the Illinois 4-H program.

Additional sponsors included Caterpillar Community Giving Program; Illinois Farm Bureau; Clean line Energy Partners LLC; Prairie Farms Dairy Inc.; Country Financial; Woodman’s Markets; and GrainCo FS Inc. To learn more about 4-H in the community, contact Anne Scheel at 309-346-2356 or email. amsheel@illinois.edu or visit the website at: http:// web.extension.illinois. edu/blmp/.

CONSOLIDATED ELECTION NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT ON TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

at the following precincts and established polling places:

PRECINCT POLLING PLACE LOCATION GRANVILLE #1 Standard Fire Station Standard, IL GRANVILLE #2 American Legion Hall Granville, IL GRANVILLE #3 Mark Community Bldg.

Mark, IL GRANVILLE #4 American Legion Hall Granville, IL MAGNOLIA #1 Magnolia Fire Station Magnolia, IL MAGNOLIA #2 McNabb Fire Station McNabb, IL HENNEPIN #1 Park District Complex Hennepin, IL SENACHWINE #1 Putnam Town Hall Putnam, IL (Locations subject to change as necessity requires)

in the County of Putnam, State of Illinois, a Consolidated Election will be held for the purpose of electing candidates for the following offices: MUNICIPAL: • Trustees of the following Municipalities: Granville Hennepin Magnolia Mark McNabb Standard HENNEPIN PARK DISTRICT: • Commissioners PUTNAM COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT: • Trustees PUTNAM COUNTY SCHOOL UNIT DISTRICT #535 • Board Member HENRY-SENACHWINE SCHOOL UNIT DISTRICT #5 • Board Member PRINCETON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL UNIT DISTRICT #115 • Board Member PRINCETON HIGH SCHOOL UNIT DISTRICT #500 • Board Member COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT #513: • Trustee TISKILWA RURAL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT • Trustee

The polls of said Consolidated Election shall be opened continuously from 6:00 A.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, April 7, 2015.

Dated at Hennepin, Illinois on March 16, 2015.

DANIEL S. KUHN Putnam County Clerk & Election Authority

Wednesday, March 25, 2015 • The Putnam County Record • 13

–––––––– Classifieds ––––––– General Terms and Policies The Putnam County Record reserves the right to classify correctly, edit, reject or cancel any advertisement at any time in accordance with its policy. All ads must be checked for errors by the advertiser, on the first day of publication.

We will be responsible for the first incorrect insertion, and its liabilities shall be limited to the price on one insertion.

CLASSIFIED LINE AD & LEGAL DEADLINES: • Wednesday Paper deadline Thursday before by 3pm We Accept Call 815-875-4461 classified@bcrnews.com

- 200 Employment

228 • Help Wanted IMMEDIATE OPENINGS! Assemblers & Machine Operators.

Princeton Area Manufacturing.

All Shifts Available. $10-$12/hour.

Subject to background check/drug testing.

Call Today 815-780-8520 Lake Thunderbird Association is currently accepting applications for LIFEGUARDS for the 2015 Summer Season! The perfect summer job! Flexible hours! Lifeguard Certification Training course will be available. Call the LTA Office at 815-437-2757 for details

HARD TO FIND THAT RIGHT PERSON FOR THAT JOB OPENING? The Putnam County Record Classified can reach just the right person you are looking for to fill that job opening. Call 815875-4461

232 • Business Opportunities

227 • Drivers TRUCK DRIVER. Helena Chemical Company, a national, agricultural chemical company, has an immediate opening for a Truck Driver at Princeton, IL. Requirements: high school diploma or equivalent, CDL with HAZMAT endorsement, and the ability to operate a forklift.

Responsibilities: makes deliveries, loads and unloads product, uses a forklift, and performs general warehouse duties.

Apply in person to: Helena Chemical Company, 1870 Backbone Road West, Princeton, IL. Preemployment drug screen and background check required.

EEO/AA/M/F/ Disabled/Veteran

228 • Help Wanted Local Independent Insurance Agency Looking for a SERVICE CUSTOMER REP. Send Resume to: Box 344 Bureau County Republican, PO Box 340, Princeton, IL 61356

********** THE CLASSIFIED Advertising Department of the Putnam County Record Does not have the opportunity to fully investigate the credibility of each advertiser appearing within these columns. If an offer sounds “too good to be true” it probably is.

Proceed with caution if you are asked to send money or to give a credit card number.

Proceed with caution in calling 900 phone numbers. All phone numbers prefixed by”900” are charged to the CALLER. Charges may be assessed on a “per minute” basis rather than a “per call” basis.

The Putnam County Record Classifieds makes every effort to qualify these charges for the reader.

If you have a concern about an advertiser, please contact: Better Business Bureau 330 North Wabash Chicago, IL 60611 312 832-0500

- 300 Services

- 700 Real Estate For Sale

322 • Painting

767 • Mobile Home Sales

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PAINTING of all kinds.

Spraying,rolling, faux finishes, wall paper removal & so much more. Combined over 40 years experience. Insured, dependable, friendly, honest. Call Carrie Uzella Smith at 815-228-7660.

Serving PC & surrounding areas for 11 years

ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICES RIGHT HERE! The Putnam County Record can promote your services and let people know you are out there wanting there business.

Just call (815) 875-4461 and let us help.

- 400 Merchandise 450 • Under $1000 ************ HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL? Put your ad in for FREE Items $1,000 or less can run FREE for 1 time. Limit of 5 lines.

Up to 3 items with price and price totaling under $1,000. 1 ad per household per week.

No commercial ads, firearms or animal sales.

E-mail information to: classified@ bcrnews.com (include your name, address & phone number) No Phone Calls!

Woods 6 foot 3 point mower $650. Call or text 815-303-0950

YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU MIGHT FIND right here in the Putnam County Record Classified!

You could find furniture, appliances, pets, musical instruments, tools, anything. You might even find a kitchen sink!

**************** PUBLISHER'S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.”

Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

To complain of discrimination call, HUD tollfree at 800 669-9777.

The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 800 927-9275

999 • Legal Notices IN THE CIRCUIT COURT TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PUTNAM COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN RE: ) THE ESTATE OF: ) NITA TONIONI, ) Deceased ) 2015-P-5 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is hereby given of the death of Nita Tonioni.

Letters of office were issued on March 5, 2015 to JUNE DEMPSEY, whose address is PO Box 92, Standard, Illinois 61363, as Independent Executor.

Her attorney is JOHN GRIVETTI, Grivetti Law Office, 309 ( R )

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

Third Street PO Box 50, Standard, Illinois 61363.

Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Putnam County Circuit Clerk, Putnam County Courthouse, Hennepin, Illinois, 61327, or with the representative, or both, on or before October 15, 2015. ANY CLAIM NOT FILED

BY THAT DATE IS BARRED. Copies of any claim filed with the Clerk of the Court must be mailed or delivered to the representative and her attorney within ten (10) days of the date of filing with the clerk.

Dated this 5th day of March, 2015.

JOHN GRIVETTI GRIVETTI LAW OFFICE 308 R Third Street PO Box 50 Standard, IL 61363 815.690.3822.

Published in the Putnam County Record Mar. 11, 18 and 25, 2015.

barred. Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Putnam County Courthouse, Hennepin, IL 61327, or with the Representative, or both. Within ten (10) days after a claimant files its claim with the Court, the claimant must mail or deliver a copy of the claim to the Representative AND to his attorney of record AND file with the Court proof of mailing or delivery of said copies.

Dated this 11th day of March, 2015.

Scott A. Shore, Attorney for Executor Scott A. Shore, Attorney At Law 227 E. Court St. P.O. Box 230 Hennepin, IL 61327 Tel. 815-925-7117 Published in the Putnam County Record Mar. 18, 25 and Apr. 1, 2015.

Hennepin, Illinois 61327 as Co-Executors.

Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the clerk of court, Putnam County Courthouse, Hennepin, Illinois 61327, or with the representative, or both, within 6 months from the date of issuance of letters and any claim not filed within that period is barred.

Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative within 10 days after it has been filed.

Dated this 28th day of February 2015.

Name: Cheryl M. Judd/ Harold E. Fay Address: 809 Hazel Marie Boyle Dr. City/State: Hennepin IL 61327 Phone: (815) 925-7330 Published in the Putnam County Record Mar. 11, 18 and 25, 2015.

hour of 7:00 o’clock p.m. at Granville Township Hall, 212 S. McCoy St., Granville, IL. For the transaction of the miscellaneous business in the said township; and after a Moderator having been elected, will proceed to hear and consider reports of officers, and decide on such measures as may, in pursuance of law, come before the meeting; and especially to consider and decide the following: Reports of Officers, and decide on such measures as may, in pursuance of law, come before the meeting.

Dated: March 19, 2015

Megan Reynolds, Clerk

Granville Township Published in the Putnam County Record Mar. 25, 2015.

CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PUTNAM COUNTY, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF ) MICHAEL C. FAY ) NO. 15-P-2 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of MICHAEL C. FAY. Letters of Office were issued on February 10, 2015 to Cheryl M. Judd and Harold E. Fay 809 Hazel Marie Boyle Drive,

LEGAL PUBLICATION ANNUAL TOWNSHIP MEETING NOTICE IS HERBY GIVEN To the legal voters, residents of the Township of Granville in the county of Putnam and State of Illinois that the ANNUAL TOWNSHIP MEETING of said township will take place on TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2015 beginning at the

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PUTNAM COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN RE: ) The Estate of Gene) W. Greenwood, ) Deceased ) Case # 15 P 4 NOTICE OF CLAIM DATE Notice is given of the death of Gene W. Greenwood on May 21, 2014, and that Letters of Office as Executor were issued on March 5, 2015 to Dan Greenwood, whose address is PO Box 384, Granville, IL 61326, and whose attorney is Scott A. Shore, PO Box 230, Hennepin, IL 61327.

Claims may be filed six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this Notice of Claim Date or three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery, whichever is later, and any claim not filed on or before that date is

OPEN HOUSE!

Saturday, March 28 • 11:00am - 12:30pm

NEW LISTINGS!

Neat 2-bedroom, 1-bath home with 2 car garage, sunny deck, main level laundry, office & more! #08853496 $43,900

New, New, New! Recently remodeled 2-bedroom home with new windows, drywall, kitchen & baths, flooring, wiring, patio & more! #08859898 $97,900 Call Bonnie Lester at 815-228-7565

9420 E. 1050th St., Hennepin

3 bedrooms, 1 bath, #08346304 $99,000

2409 4th St., Peru, Illinois 815-223-1088 1-800-414-5788

2409 4th St., Peru

815-223-1088

1-800-414-5788

Business Directory Marketplace

BRIAN SPELICH GENERAL CONTRACTING

124 S. Peru St. • Downtown Tonica

Repair and Fabrication Steel, Stainless, Cast, Iron, Aluminum, etc.

Mig, tig, Stick welding Complete Fab shop and Mobile Repair Small Jobs – Heavy Equipment Fast and Affordable

815-830-3100

Specializing in High-Quality New Construction & Remodeling with over 35 Years of Experiance

815-883-8681 815-488-9830 835 Clark St. Oglesby, IL 61348

JODY TALIANI Mon-Fri 8AM - 5PM

“I crave Jazzercise because it makes me feel rejuvenated and stress free.

–

Top Quality • 100% Union Labor • Fully Insured • Free Estimates

Owner

202 W Harper Ave

Piper, 35

PO Box 326

CLASS SCHEDULE Class times range from 30 to 60 minutes M 9:20am, 4:20pm, 5:30pm*| T 5:30am, 4:20pm, 5:30pm W 9:20am, 4:20pm, 5:30pm*| TH 5:30am,* 4:20pm, 5:30pm F 9:20am | SA 8:45am

*Express 30 Minute Classes

815.878.5965 | jazzercise.com 2901 N. Peoria St. | Peru

Granville, IL 61326 PH:

815-339-9181 FAX: 815-399-9182

Tire Brands Toyo General Continental GT BKT Carlisle Kumho

TKO Tire and Service Auto Repair and Tire Service

Auto, LT, Implement and Specialty Tires

14049 IL HWY 18, Magnolia, IL

ar ara C am

Certified Public Accountant Enrolled Agent

ROUTE

71

AUTO BODY

route71autobody@frontier.com

815-869-4249

s, C P , A

Accepting New Clients!!

-Income Tax Preparation & Planning 225 N. Walter Ave. McNabb, IL p: (815)882-2437 c: (815)252-2427 baccpa1@gmail.com

To add your listing to this page contact Ashley at (815) 875-4461, Ext. 6345

14 • The Putnam County Record • Wednesday, March 25, 2015 999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

“PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT: Gladys Marie Moews (also known as Gladys Simpson Moews Brannon and Gladys S. Moews) died on December 26, 2014.

The Circuit Court, Putnam County, on March 12, 2015, admitted to probate the Will of Gladys Marie Moews (also known as Gladys Simpson Moews

Brannon and Gladys S. Moews) and issued letters testamentary to Bettina M. Moews, P.O. Box 214, Granville, Illinois 61326, whose attorney of record is Jerold I. Horn, 401 Main Street, Suite 1650, Peoria, Illinois 616021230.

Within 42 days after the effective date of the original order of admission any heir or lega-

tee may file a petition with the court to require proof of the will by testimony of the witnesses to the will in open court or other evidence, as provided in Section 6-21 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/6-21).

Any interested person has the right under Section 8-1 of the Probate Act (755 ILCS 5/8-1) to contest the validity of the will by

filing a petition with the court within 6 months after admission of the will to probate.

Claims may be filed on or before September 17, 2015, or the date which is six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, whichever date is later, and any claim not filed on or before that date is barred.

Claims against said

estate may be filed on or before said date with the executor or with the court (in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court, County Courthouse, Hennepin, Illinois) or with both. Within ten (10) days after the filing of any claim with the court, a copy of the claim must be mailed or delivered to said legal representative and to

said attorney of record.”

Published in the Putnam County Record Mar. 25, Apr. 1 and 8, 2015.

Town Meeting of said Town will take place on Tuesday, April 14th, 2015 Being the Second Tuesday of said month at the hour of 7 o’clock p.m. at The Hennepin Town Hall For the transaction of the miscellaneous business of the said town; and after a Moderator having been elected, will proceed to hear and consider reports of officers,

and decide on such measures as may, in pursuance of law, come before the meeting; and especially to consider and decide the following: Fund Transfer Donations Dated March 18, 2015.

Hennepin Township Clerk Published in the Putnam County Record Mar. 25, 2015.

Business Directory Marketplace

AMENDED ANNUAL TOWN MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN To the legal voters, residents of the Town of Hennepin in the County of Putnam and State of Illinois, that the Annual

Mike’s TV Service

815-925-7124

PASSINI PLUMBING & HEATING Plumbing • Heating • Electrical PASSINI PLUMBING & HEATINGTONICA HARDWARE

Sieg Tire & Tube Repair Shop Selling & Repairing all makes of tires 112 S. St. Paul St. Mark, IL 61340

Open 7 days/week 8-5pm Interstate Battery Sales

Johnny Sieg

Cars, Trucks, Trailer, Motorcycles, ATVs, & Lawn Mowers also Bicycles

Owner/Operator

815-878-7367 Where We Always Keep You

Rollin!

Mounting, Balancing, Rotating, Patches, Plugs and all tire repairs plus Small Implement Farm Tires

713 High St., Hennepin mikestvsvc@mchsi.com Samsung & Sanyo Authorized Service Center

We fix ALL Plasmas, LCDs, LED TVs & Most DLP / Projection TVs

We make service calls within 25miles

Out of Warranty Repairs

Since 1919

If your TV needs a little TLC, give us a call!

28 Years Experience • Old Fashioned Values

PASSINI PLUMBING &PLUMBING HEATING PASSINI & HEATING PASSINI PLUMBING Passini &David HEATING Licensed-Bonded-Insured

815-339-4108 815-481-2639

116 South 2nd St. Standard, IL 61363

24 Hrs. Service • 815-442-3415

230 S. LaSalle St., Tonica (815) 442-8211 206 S. Main St., Lostant (815) 368-3333

301 S. Columbia Ave., Oglesby (815) 883-8400 www.illinistatebank.com

Auto Body Specialists Truck Toppers & Accessories

BOB’S DRYWALL, PAINT, ETC

Bob Cmolik

• Drywall • Paint • Texturing • Bathrooms • Plaster Repair • Remodeling • Tiling 19 Aztec Circle, Putnam, IL 815-342-1385 bcmolik@yahoo.com

red CArpet ServiCe For the World’s Best People

Our Customers

Al Cioni Ford inC.

504 S. McCoy Granville, IL 815-339-2511

No baloney with Al Cioni!

FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION

MAGNOLIA, ILLINOIS

Call Today!

Call Today!

815-257-0841

“You bend ‘em, we mend ‘em”

SCOTT SMITH

• Fully Insured • Tree Trimming • Lawn Rolling

Titles • Stickers • FOID • Notary • License Stickers (Auto, Truck, Motorcycle, Trailers) • Heavy Trucks, Farm, Mileage vehicles • Boat, Jet Ski, Snowmobile Registrations • Now offering Mileage Bonds •

SE JOU N Y LICE & TITLE

204 6th h St., Standard, d d IL Phone: h 815-339-1041 By appointment only: Tuesday • Thursday • Saturday & Evenings

Mike Supan Jr. ∙ Linda Supan ∙ Michele Straughn

325 North 25th Rd, Route 251 South of Peru

815-224-1506

EMERGENCY: 815-252-0032

GRANVILLE Floor & Wall We Have A Great Selection Of Floor Coverings To Meet Your Every Need

Granville, IL 339-2345

Mon-Wed 9-5 • Thurs 9-2 • Fri 9-5 • Sat 9-12

Quality Pro-Owned Vehicles A Division of Ed Hartwig Trucking & Excavating, Inc. The perfect way to discard old roofing materials.

PLUMBING & HEATING, INC. 815-882-2111 • 815-875-2540 www.grassersplumbingheating.com 404 W. Main, FREE McNabb,IL (State ID No. 58-100249)

COMPLETE CAR AND TRUCK CARE 24 HOUR TOWING SERVICE Rt. 89, McNabb, IL • Jack Bima, Owner

JACK’S GAS & SERVICE 882-2191 Monday-Saturday 882-2250 Evenings & Sundays

To

Long Term Care Insurance & Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Supplement insurance available.

GONET INSURANCE AGENCY

add your listing to this page contact

Ashley

at

FOLEY MOTORS

Full Service Store

Inc.

Sales & Service

Estimates

321 S. McCoy St., Granville, IL Call 815-339-2411

Towing Available

Rt. 29, Henry, IL

309-364-4711

YOUR BEST INVESTMENT IS IN YOUR HOME

Quality Work. Fair Price.

Guaranteed

Use your tax return for your down payment!

815-224-3371 • www.proremodeling.org

(815) 875-4461, Ext. 6345

Big Cable raised its rates consistently for 18 years.* Switch to Frontier and get a 3-Year Price Big Cable raised itsGuarantee. rates consistently for 18 years.*

Wednesday, March 25, 2015 • The Putnam County Record • 15

Perry Memorial Hospital Family Health Clinic

Switch to Frontier and get a Big Cable raised itsGuarantee. rates consistently 3-Year Price Big Cable raised its years.* rates consistently for 18

Coming to Perry in the Summer of 2016

for 18 years.* SwitchFRONTIER to Frontier and get a HIGH-SPEED INTERNET 3-Year Guarantee.

Switch to Price Frontier and get a

19 19 19 19

99 99 99 99

Dr. Christopher Blanford

3-Year Price Guarantee.

FRONTIER HIGH-SPEED INTERNET per month FRONTIER with qualifying phone service HIGH-SPEED INTERNET FRONTIER HIGH-SPEED INTERNET per month

Family Practice Physician Dr. Christopher Blanford will be joining Dr. Robert Mestan, Dr. Arnold Faber, Trudy Argubright, FNP and Karen Nenne, FNP in the Perry Memorial Family Health Clinic in the summer of 2016.

Dr. Blanford was raised in Wyanet and graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford. He will complete his Family Practice Residency in the summer of 2016.

with qualifying phone service

Call 1-888-770-6869 now per month or visit Frontier.com/Internet. with qualifying

CHECK OUT OUR GREAT

phone service

Experience the compassionate, quality services at Perry Memorial Hospital Family Health Clinic, in Suite 303 - Medical Office Building 815-875-4531.

per month with qualifying DEALS FOR 2015 phone service

Call 1-888-770-6869 now or visit Frontier.com/Internet.

Call 1-888-770-6869 now CHECK OUT OUR GREAT DEALS FOR 2015 or visit Frontier.com/Internet.

Call 1-888-770-6869 now CHECK OUT OUR GREAT DEALS FOR 2015 or visit Frontier.com/Internet.

*According to the 2014 Federal Communications Commission Report on Cable Industry Prices. Limited-time offer for new Internet customers, including *According the 2014Must Federal Communications Commission Report onphone Cableand Industry Prices.Internet services. Actual speeds may vary current voice-only to customers. subscribe to a qualifying package of residential High-Speed and areLimited-time not guaranteed.

Service subject to availability.

Installation fees apply; voice-only discounted customers.

Internet install fee waived for self-install.

Pricepackage guaranteed for offer for new Internet customers, including current Must subscribe to a qualifying 36 months.

Shipping/handling charge applies. A $9.99 broadband processing fee uponmay disconnection of service applies. Taxes, governmental of residential phone and High-Speed Internet services.

Actual speeds vary and are not guaranteed.

Service subjectand to other Frontier-imposed surcharges apply.

Frontier reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time.

Other restrictions apply. availability. Installation fees apply; discounted Internet install fee waived for self-install. Price guaranteed for 36 months. Shipping/ ©2015handling Frontier Communications Corporation.

R_TT_1.15_19.99_QPROP4C charge applies. A $9.99 broadband processing fee upon disconnection of service applies. Taxes, governmental and other Frontier-imposed surcharges apply. Frontier reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Other restrictions apply.

530 Park Ave. East • 815-875-2811 www.perrymemorial.org

R_TT_1.15_19.99_QPROP4C

©2015 Frontier Communications Corporation.

Climate Corporation CHECK 27112 OUT–OUR FOR 12/16/14 Q1 TT GREAT Collateral –DEALS Quarter Ad – 2015

*According to the 2014 Federal Communications Commission Report on Cable Industry Prices.

27112_TT_0115_1999_QROP4C_F.indd 1

4:00 PM

R_TT_1.15_19.99_QPROP4C – 4.889”x10.5” – 4C

Limited-time offer for new Internet customers, including current voice-only customers. Must subscribe to a qualifying package of residential phone and High-Speed Internet services. Actual speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. Service subject to availability. Installation fees apply; discounted Internet install fee waived for self-install. Price guaranteed for 36 months. Shipping/ handling charge applies. A $9.99 broadband processing fee upon disconnection of service applies. Taxes, governmental and other Frontier-imposed surcharges apply. Frontier reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Other restrictions apply. *According to the 2014 Federal Communications Commission Report on Cable Industry Prices.

R_TT_1.15_19.99_QPROP4C ©2015 Frontier Communications Corporation.

Limited-time offer for new Internet customers, including current voice-only customers. Must subscribe to a qualifying package of residential phone and High-Speed Internet services. Actual speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. Service subject to availability. Installation fees apply; discounted Internet install fee waived for self-install. Price guaranteed for 36 months. Shipping/ handling charge applies. A $9.99 broadband and PM 27112_TT_0115_1999_QROP4C_F.indd 1 processing fee upon disconnection of service applies. Taxes, governmental 12/16/14 4:00 other Frontier-imposed surcharges apply. Frontier reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Other restrictions apply.

www.climate.com

Climate Corporation hasAdset 27112 – Q1 TT Collateral – Quarter – out to make managing your fields easier!

R_TT_1.15_19.99_QPROP4C – 4.889”x10.5” – 4C R_TT_1.15_19.99_QPROP4C ©2015 Frontier Communications Corporation.

With Climate Basic or Climate Pro you will be able to manage your hybrid

*According to the 2014 Federal Communications Commission Report on Cable Industry Prices.

placement along with growth stages, soil moisture, harvest moisture and rain gauges for each individual farm. This data can be viewed from your R_TT_1.15_19.99_QPROP4C ©2015 Frontier Communications Corporation. cell phone, tablet, or computer for easy access. Climate keeps your farm information at the tip of your finger no matter where you are! Contact 27112_TT_0115_1999_QROP4C_F.indd 1 12/16/14 4:00 PM 27112 – Q1 TT Collateral – Quarter Ad – QLE to see how –you can get– signed up today!

R_TT_1.15_19.99_QPROP4C 4.889”x10.5” 4C Limited-time offer for new Internet customers, including current voice-only customers. Must subscribe to a qualifying package of residential phone and High-Speed Internet services. Actual speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. Service subject to 12/16/14 4:00 PM 27112 – Q1 TTinstall Collateral – Quarter Ad – for 36 months. availability. Installation fees apply; discounted Internet fee waived for self-install.

Price guaranteed Shipping/ handling charge applies.

A $9.99 broadband processing fee upon disconnection of service applies. Taxes, R_TT_1.15_19.99_QPROP4C – 4.889”x10.5” – 4Cgovernmental and other Frontier-imposed surcharges apply. Frontier reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Other restrictions apply.

27112_TT_0115_1999_QROP4C_F.indd 1

Climate Basic • Last 24 Hour rain meter • Next 24 Hour % chance of rain • Inform operational decisions using Future Radar with 4 Hour radar predictions and previous 1 hour radar • 7 day forecast with % moisture, and wind speed and direction • Look for trends using weather data from the past 30+ years • Field Workability (Good, Caution, Stop) •% Soil Moisture per field •% Harvest Moisture per field • Growth stage per field • 24 hour hail with option for text notification • Tracks planting date, population, and crop by field • Tracks crop protection (insecticide, fungicide) • Scouting tool with geolocation and scouting notes for pests and diseases along with picture option Free Version

Climate Pro

Climate Pro is Climate Basic with more services!

Nitrogen Advisor

Becky Nielsen

815.488.8611 • Track N through plant growth Bart Whitney 815.712.1346 and development Trent Griffith 815.993.8801 • Custom scenarios allow you Tony Strom, DSM 309.781.7580 to test out different levels of N to find your best level of profitability

Quaker Lane

Field Advisor

815.882.2161

• Allows you to see stressed areas in the field by using color maps with at least 4 taken throughout the growing season with option of text notification for new picture • Prioritize scouting • Use in-season and historical field imaging to evaluate crop health and identify issues before they impact yield Call Quaker Lane For Pricing

16 • The Putnam County Record • Wednesday, March 25, 2015

PCES students vote for Rebecca Caudill books

By Annette Davis, Putnam County Schools media director

Special to the Putnam County Record

HENNEPIN — Thirteen fifth-graders gathered to

vote for their favorite 2015 Rebecca Caudill title Friday, Feb. 20.

Students have been participating in the Rebecca Caudill Young Readers’ Book Award this school year, selecting books to read from the 20 nominees.

To be eligible to attend the party, students had to read at least three titles from the list, pass the Accelerated Reader quiz for the book, and complete a worksheet detailing elements of the book. Students and staff enjoyed cookies and ice

cream with toppings. Students also enjoyed a pizza lunch and soda.

Students liked many of the books, and two books tied for first place: “Dogs on Duty: Soldiers’ Best Friends on the Battlefield and Beyond” by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent and “The False Prince” by Jennifer A. Nielsen. Third place went to “Almost Home”

by Joan Bauer. All votes were submitted to the state ISLMA, an overall favorite of all students in the state of Illinois will be

announced March 20.

The following fifthgrade students participated: 5A: Jimmy Baele, Erin Brooker, Alyssa Keigley, Jaxon Stoddard, Isaac Wujek; 5B: Grace Ebel, Renae Ramey, Lillian Sandberg, Paige Terando; 5C: McKinley Cwikla, Kalyn Grant, Eddie Reveles and Clayton Wellenreiter.

A special thanks to the Putnam County Educational Foundation (PCEF) for its funding of a grant to help provide for the pur-

chase of the books and treats. So far, 123 Rebecca Caudill nominees have been read. Students have until April 17 to read all 20 if they choose to do so.

Thanks also goes to the teachers and staff of PCES for their support of this program. Their encouragement to read and the handling of the “behind the scenes” work is greatly appreciated! This is a wonderful accomplishment of students and staff. Everyone did a great job! Congratulations!

TUESDAYS:

$1 Tacos SPECIALS DAILY WEDNESDAYS:

Wings -Try our 8 new sauces!

THURSDAYS:

$9.99 Pulled Pork Homestyle Dinner

with cheesy potatoes, fresh green beans, & dessert

BOOK YOUR PARTIES WITH US!!

Photo contributed

Fifth-graders participating voting for their favorite 2015 Rebecca Caudill title were (in no particular order) Jimmy Baele, Erin Brooker, Alyssa Keigley, Jaxon Stoddard, Isaac Wujek, Grace Ebel, Renae Ramey, Lillian Sandberg, Paige Terando, McKinley Cwikla, Kalyn Grant, Eddie Reveles and Clayton Wellenreiter.

FRIDAY:

All-You-Can-Eat Pollock $7.99 Shrimp Basket $7.99 www.paganolearys.net

815-339-6278 • 304 S. McCoy St. Granville, IL • Open 7 Days a Week

HENNEPIN FOOD MART SPRING $ 99 $ 99 3 2 FLING! BLACK ANGUS BONELESS

lb

CHUCKROAST

GROCERY SPECIALS

Our Family Baking Chips, 12oz..................................$1.69 Our Family Gravy Jar, 12oz ................................ $1.19 Our Family Powdered or Brown Sugar, 2# ......... $1.69 Nabisco Trisket and All Asst Snack Crackers, 9oz ... 2/$5 Ruffles Potato Chips, Each.......................................... .2/$5 Western or Asst Wishbone Dressings, 16oz ......... 2/$4 GM Corn, Rice, Wheat Chex Cereals, 14oz ......... 2/$5 Our Family Stuffing Mix, 6oz ................................ .99¢ Kelloggs Crispix, Cocoa Puff, Rice Krispie, Cereals, 12oz .. 2/$5 Pam Baking Spray, 6oz ........................................ 2/$5 Quilted Northern Bath Tissue, 9 roll .................... $6.49 Our Family Sweet, Dill, Bread Butter Pickles, All 16-32oz ... 2/$4

PRODUCE

California Navel Oranges, 4lb bag ......................... 2/$5 Dole Celery, Each ............................................... $1.29 Hot House Fresh Tomatoes, lb .......................... $1.79 Montery Whole White Mushrooms, 8oz.............. $1.79

DELI

Kretschmar Honey Ham, lb ................................ $4.99 Walnut Longhorn Cheese, lb .............................. $4.99 Homemade Head Cheese, lb ............................. $6.99 Fresh Deli Coleslaw, lb....................................... $1.99

YE OLDE PUB SHOPPE

Busch or Busch Light Beer, 30pk cans ............... $13.99 Midnight Moonshine, 750ml .............................. $18.99

OPEN 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Daily 8 a.m. - Noon Sunday 925-7308

Our Family Very Cherry or Blueberry Pie Filling 21oz

Hellmans Mayonaise 30oz

2/ 6 $

2.99

$

Wesson Vegetable or Canola Oil 48oz

Our Family Paper Towels Each

Era 2x Laundry Liquid 50oz

Brawny Paper Towels 8 roll

C O Our Family Sugar U P O 4# N Limit Two With Coupon and $15 Order

2.

$

89

.99¢ 2.99

$

6.99

$ $

1.49

lb

CENTER CUT BONELESS BUTTERFLY

PORKCHOPS

MEAT SPECIALS

Our Family Sliced Bacon, lb ................................. 2/$7 Tray Pak Chicken Gizzards, 20oz ........................ $1.29 Ball Park Hot Dogs, 15oz ....................................... 2/$5 Boneless Stuffed Porkchops, lb........................... $4.99 Lean Pork Butt Roast, lb ...................................... $1.79 Fresh Whole Pork Tenderloins, lb ....................... $3.99 Cooks Half Picnic Hams, lb ................................. $1.99

FROZEN FOOD

Tombstone Pizzas, Each....................................... 3/$9 Stouffer Party Lasagna, 38oz ............................. $6.99 New York Garlic Toast, All .................................... 2/$4 Our Family Whipped Topping, 8oz ....................... .99¢

DAIRY

Our Family Grade A Butter, 1# ............................. 2/$5 Simply Orange Juice, 59oz ................................. $2.99 Kraft American or Swiss Singles, 12oz ............... $2.79 Our Family French Onion Dip, 16oz .................. $1.99 Our Family Sour Cream, 16oz .............................. 2/$3

BAKERY

Fresh Baked Sweet Bread, Each ........................ $1.99 Fresh Baked Strawberry Ruhbarb Pies, Each .... $5.99

SEAFOOD SHOPPE

Jumbo Tiger Shrimp, 2lb bag (16.99 a pound) .......... $33.98 Large lobster Tails, (16-20oz tails) lb.................... $23.99

Order your Prime Rib or Amish ham for the Easter Holiday!!!

1 Health Matters Spring 2015 • 1

Health Matters

A Publication of

Celebrate! March is National Nutrition Month!

Choose your plate; choose your lifestyle

By Shaw Media Staff news@bcrnews.com

March is National Nutrition Month, and the Bureau/Putnam County Health Department’s Nursing Director Laurie Geuther advises area residents to stay active and eat well.

Bureau County Metro Center Activities Director Nick Davis said every little bit helps. Whenever possible, he said, take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Geuther highly recommended people visit choosemyplate.gov.

It is a simply a great resource, said Geuther. She said “choose my plate” has replaced the traditional nutritional pyramid scheme.

In order to lose weight, said Davis, diet and exercise need to be improved together. The two go hand in hand, he said.

In a country which is spending up to $250 billion annually on obesity-related medical treatments, health and obesity have become significant national hardships.

Davis recognized it is often hard to find the time for healthy habits. Personally, he said, working out while on lunch or during breaks has been really helpful.

“I’m fortunate enough to have a gym down the hall,” said Davis.

However, he encouraged others to walk around the office or take a minute to do some sit ups while on break at work. It might look a little goofy, he said, but it’s only for a minute or two.

“Everyone’s personalities and lifestyles are different. You have to find what works for you and stick with it,” said Princeton Crossfit 56 co-owner Jessica Johnston.

Johnston has always been an active person.

“Throughout school I played sports. After that I still continued to run and exercise regularly,” she said.

Today, Johnston tries to workout four to five times a week.

“I feel it’s important to have both nutrition and exercise to maintain a healthy body and mind,” she said.

When it came to eating healthy, Johnston admits she’s not always maintained a well-balanced diet. But after seeing a photo of herself about five years ago, she had an “ah ha” moment.

“I thought, I need to start making healthier decisions. From there I started down the path of yo-yo dieting, until I found one that worked for me and made me feel my best,” she said.

Today, Johnston follows the Paleo Diet, which consists of eating a mix of meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, fruits, fats, nuts and seeds.

“I would say I follow this diet about 80-20 percent of the time,” she said. “We have also made small adjustments to fit our family’s needs.”

While Johnston works hard to maintain the diet, she does allow herself to splurge once in awhile.

“I try to make it more a lifestyle than a diet, so I can have those cheat meals or desserts,” she said.

Johnston said if she deviates from her plan for too long, she will start a 30-day challenge to hold herself more accountable.

According to Geuther and stateofobesity.org, Illinois ranks 25th in America’s adult obesity rates (25 out of 51). The obesity percentage last recorded in 2013 was 29.4 percent.

While Geuther agreed with Michelle Obama’s campaign to fight childhood obesity, the highest obesity rates in Illinois are seen between the ages of 45 and 64.

Childhood obesity leads to a wide range of health concerns and a decreased quality of life, said Geuther. She said obesity leads to a variety of physical and

Celebrate Page 2

Crossfit 56 co-owner Jessica Johnston (right) works with a member of her Shred class on the morning of St. Patrick’s Day. Johnston is dedicated to the health and fitness of both her family and her community. Rather than looking at diets and healthy habits, said Johnston, she looks at health and fitness as her lifestyle.

Specializing In:

Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy • Respite Care • Wound Care • Long & Short Term Care

HEALTHCARE AND REHABILITATION CENTRE 515 Bureau Valley Parkway, Princeton, IL 815-875-3347 • fax: 815-875-2012 www.colonialcarecentre.com

The Difference is the Care

2 Health Matters 2 • Spring 2015

Health Matters

“Everyone’s personalities and lifestyles are different. You have to find what works for you and stick with it.”

Jessica Johnston, Princeton Crossfit 56 co-owner

Calorie busting exercises How many calories can you burn doing your favorite exercises?

This chart is based off a 5’ 10” man who weighs 154 pounds. People who weigh more will burn more calories doing these activities; people who weigh less will use fewer calories.

Source: www.choosemyplate.gov.

MODERATE physical activities: In 1 hour

In 30 minutes

Hiking 370

Celebrate

Geuther quoted the article, “Obesity is more prevalent in the United States than in other high-income countries ... Evidence indicates that U.S. adults are somewhat more sedentary than their European counterparts.”

Davis said he personally struggles with portion control and eating too much red meat. It’s better to stick with turkey, chicken or even pork, he said.

Davis doesn’t really have a sweet tooth, he

From Page 1 emotionally struggles such as heart disease, joint disease and emotional distress which can be carried on throughout a lifetime.

Obesity in the United States has become a serious concern as the country’s life expectancy remains exceptionally low according to research on aging conducted by the Population Reference Bureau.

said. However, he added, in those moments when a person is craving sweets, substituting a healthier snack could help. Maybe try something with natural sugars, but just don’t overdo that either.

While the United States falls high on the scales and low on life longevity, Geuther believes a more productive analysis is to examine countries that are doing well. By emulating high-income countries with low obesity rates and high life longevity, the

ORTHODONTICS FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS New Patients Welcome!

No referrals necessary FREE ns Consultatio

Curtis R. Imel, DDS PC Tushar Shah, DDS 2050 Marquette Rd. Suite 200 • Peru, IL www.drimelorthodontics.com

815.224.2355

FREE DELIVERY

815-339-2323 Mon. - Fri. 8:30am to 5pm Closed Saturday & Sunday

VIGOROUS physical activities:

In 1 hour

In 30 minutes

185

Running/ jogging (5 mph) 590 295

Light gardening/yard work 330 165

Bicycling (more than 10 mph) 590 295

Dancing 330

Swimming (slow freestyle laps) 510 255

165

Golf (walking and carrying clubs) 330 165

Aerobics 480

240

Bicycling (less than 10 mph) 290 145

Walking (4.5 mph) 460

230

Walking (3.5 mph) 280

Heavy yard work (chopping wood) 440 220

140

Weight training (general light workout) 220 110

Weight lifting (vigorous effort) 440 220

Stretching 180

Basketball (vigorous) 440

U.S. could make improvements, she added.

Geuther said through education, the Bureau and Putnam County Health Department aims to broadcast the mission of better health habits. She said through small sustainable changes, people can work their way toward

90

a healthier lifestyle. She continued, those big changes are oftentimes not sustainable.

Geuther again advised people to visit the excellent government resource choosemyplate.gov.

Through the great visual aid, she said, people can gain an easy perspec-

220

tive on what their plates should look like.

With one-half the plate covered in veggies and fruits, a section of lean protein, and a section of whole grains, people can eat their way into a healthier lifestyle.

Comment on this story at www.bcrnews.com.

3 Health Matters Spring 2015 • 3

Health Matters

Snack foods that promote better sleep According to the National Sleep Foundation, changes in sleep patterns are a part of the aging process. Many people experience difficulty falling asleep and then staying asleep as they age, and that difficulty can make men and women over 50 feel more tired during the day.

But even though difficulty sleeping may be a part of aging, that does not mean men and women over 50 cannot take steps to improve their sleeping patterns.

For example, certain snack foods may help to improve quality of sleep, especially when these foods replace less healthy snacking options. While men and women over 50 should always consult with their physicians before making any changes to their diets, the AARP notes that the following are a handful of snack foods that promote better sleep.

• Almonds: Magnesium is a mineral with muscle-relaxing properties, and almonds contain enough magnesium to help men and women get a better night’s sleep. A small amount of almonds before bed might be enough to make falling and staying asleep easier.

• Bananas: Much like almonds, banan-

as provide a substantial amount of magnesium.

Bananas also contain the amino acid tryptophan, which many people associate with Thanksgiving turkey. While tryptophan might be most often associated with the sleepiness people feel after eating a holiday meal, it also has been linked to better sleep quality, so a banana shortly before bed might be just what you need to fall and stay asleep.

• Cheese and crackers: One more traditional snack may just help you get a better night’s sleep.

Cheese and crackers contain tryptophan and carbohydrates, which can induce a better night’s sleep and help you fall asleep sooner.

• Cherries: Cherries contain the sleep hormone melatonin, and the AARP notes that recent studies indicated that participants who drank tart cherry juice on a daily basis fell asleep more quickly and slept longer and better than participants who did not.

• Hummus: The primary ingredient in hummus is chickpeas, which are loaded with tryptophan, folate and vitamin B6. Folate has proven especially beneficial to older men and women who need help regulating their sleep patterns,

while vitamin B6 helps the body regulate its clock.

• Peanut butter: Peanut butter is another snacking item loaded with tryptophan. Spread some peanut butter on a carbohydrate, whether it’s a slice of toast or some crackers, before going to bed, and you may enjoy a better, longer sleep.

• Walnuts: Like cherries, walnuts contain melatonin, which can contribute to a longer, more restful night’s sleep. Walnuts also can help regulate stress, which is a leading cause of sleeping difficulty.

Many men and women experience difficulty sleeping as they age. But the right foods may just help combat such problems and help men and women get a more adequate night’s sleep.

Courtesy of metrocreativeconnection.com.

The easiest thing you can do for health and looks: drink more water (BPT) — You probably already know that exercising and eating right are key ways to improve your health. But, you may be overlooking one major health necessity that is as close as your kitchen faucet — water. It’s vital all year long, even during winter months when you might think hydration is less important.

“Staying hydrated is a very important component of staying healthy,” said physician assistant Tricia A. Howard, a faculty member at South University, Savannah College of Health Professions. “Most people know they need to stay hydrated when they are doing vigorous exercise or in very hot weather, but they don’t realize the importance of making sure they are getting enough water every day.”

Why water is important Sixty percent of your body weight is made up of water. Since water carries nutrients to cells in your body, and flushes toxins from vital organs, Howard says it is important to replace what you lose daily.

“Our bodies are always losing water — even when

we breathe we are losing small amounts,” she says. “So, it is important to know how much water you need daily and to make a point of drinking it.”

Your daily intake Howard says men need three liters, or 13 cups, of water a day. Women should drink 2.2 liters or nine cups daily.

“If you drink water with each meal, and at least one glass between each meal, you will be very close to what you need to drink every day,” Howard said.

And there is good news if you want some variety.

Howard says beverages like milk and even coffee can take the place of some of the water that you need to drink daily.

“Drinks that are high in water, and low in calories, are acceptable substitutions for water,” Howard explains. “But watch out for sugary, high-calorie drinks that will cause weight gain.”

Beauty benefits Howard says the benefits of staying properly hydrated every day go beyond good health.

Staying hydrated also approves the appearance of your skin.

“Drinking a glass of water is one of the easiest things any of us can do,” Howard says. “It is important to how your body works on the inside, and how it looks on the outside. Adding this simple step to your daily routine is well worth the many benefits.”

Your health.

Your life.

Your partner.

Mitchell A. Khan, DO, FACOOG Women now have a new partner and advocate in health – the newest OB/GYN at IVCH, Dr. Mitchell Khan.

From preventive care and menopause to prenatal care and gynecological surgery – and everything in between – he provides a total healthcare resource for women in all stages of life. Board certified, Dr. Khan has years of women’s health experience, most recently serving as Medical Director of OB/GYN Services for a rural hospital as well as caring for women through his own clinic. He’s dedicated his life to your health.

You’ve found your new partner in health.

Call 815.223.2944 today for an appointment with Dr. Khan.

www.ivch.org

Approved by Generations of Women 920 West St., Building B Peru, IL 61354

4 Health Matters 4 • Spring 2015

Health Matters

Thinking about health ‘FDA approved’ doesn’t guarantee drugs are safe or effective

By Trudy Lieberman, Rural Health News Service Special to the BCR

What does the label “FDA-approved” really mean? Most people probably think it assures that a drug you take is safe and effective for the condition you have.

It seems to say a drug has passed muster with the drug safety experts in Washington, so it’s OK to use it, right? Well, not quite.

An investigation by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has just concluded FDA approval is no guarantee a drug is safe and effective, and the paper’s investigation of diabetes drugs, should make every user of prescription drugs think twice about medications their doctors prescribe.

In December the Journal Sentinel and its partner, MedPage Today, revealed that more than 3,000 deaths and some 20,000 hospitalizations have been linked to diabetes drugs in the last decade. The drugs include some you’ve probably seen advertised like Januvia, Byetta and Victoza.

Reporters found none of the 30 new diabetes drugs have been proven effective in reducing key complications of the disease like heart attacks, strokes or blindness.

Diabetes drugs as well as others win the seal of approval based on what’s called a surrogate measure, a proxy or a stand-in measure for the eventual clinic outcome everyone wants like saving lives. A proxy measure for diabetes drugs might show that it lowers blood sugar that might eventually ward off serious complications. If it can show that, it’s usually approved, and the big advertising push begins.

It doesn’t have to show that it actually saves lives or prevents blindness.

The reasons for these surrogate measures go back two decades to changes in the FDA rules pushed by politicians, drug companies and patient advocacy groups, which are often funded by drug-makers.

They wanted speed in getting drugs to market and opening new paths for treatment and for drug company profits. Diabetes drugs are big business. Sales reached $23 billion in 2013. Journal Sentinel reporters put that number in perspective. It’s larger than the combined revenue of the National Football League, Major League Baseball and the National Basketball Association.

Still, there were signs back then that drugs were reaching the market without adequate testing.

“Speed kills,” a policy researcher at George Washington University told me at the time. The Journal Sentinel investigation shows it still does.

Certainly many drugs make people better and save lives, but many others are being marketed

for more questionable reasons.

Prescribing diabetes drugs for “pre diabetics” who may or may not get the disease is a case in point.

I asked Mayo Clinic diabetes expert Dr. Victor Montori about this. “The trend to offer drugs to patients to delay a diagnosis of diabetes without making them healthier is a significant problem,” he said. “Almost half of those included in the definition of patients with pre-diabetes won’t develop the disease in 10 years.”

Still, with so much money sloshing around in this business — drug companies often offer dinners, gifts and speaking fees to reward doctors who prescribe their drugs — it’s hard to know if you’re getting the best medical advice.

What’s a patient to do? Some of these drugs have what are called “black box” warnings meaning a drug poses significant, serious or life-threatening risks.

Montori says people should ask their doctors if they really need a particular drug, and if there are alternatives. I would add don’t brush off the side effects. They are real for lots of people, as the Journal Sentinel showed.

Larry Sasich, a pharmacist, is the co-founder of www.patientdrugnews.com/. Patient Drug News once worked for Public Citizen, the medical advocacy group in Washington, and has represented consumers on FDA advisory committees.

He had another suggestion: Check the website of dailymed.

nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/index. cfm DailyMed, operated by the National Library of Medicine and the FDA. It shows the current product labels for drugs marketed in the United States along with medication guides for those drugs the agency says have significant public health concerns. Sasich said more than 200 drugs are now required to have such guides. Januvia is one of them. In a section called “What’s the most important information I should know,” the guide warns, “Serious side effects can happen in people taking Januvia, including inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) which may be severe and lead to death.”

These guides are supposed to be distributed with every new and refilled prescription, but it’s not clear pharmacies are doing that.

The takeaway is obvious: When you’re offered a new medicine, especially one with not much of a track record, ask as many questions and check as many independent sources as you can before risking your life. Ultimately you are the one who must decide if the potential benefits outweigh potential harms.

We want to hear your questions and comments about your healthcare experiences. Write to Trudy at trudy.lieberman@gmail. com.

About Trudy Lieberman Trudy Lieberman, a journalist for more than 40 years, is a contributing editor to the Columbia Journalism Review where she

blogs about health care and retirement at www.cjr.org. Her blog posts are at www.cjr.org/ author/trudy-lieberman-1/. She is also a fellow at the Center for Advancing Health where she blogs about health at www.preparedpatientforum.org/. Her blog posts are at http://blog.preparedpatientforum.org/blog/category/author/ trudy-lieberman/.

Lieberman has had a long career at Consumer Reports specializing in insurance, health care and health care financing. She was also the director of the Center for Consumer Health Choices at Consumers Union. She is a contributor to The Nation and has written a column about health and the marketplace for the Los Angeles Times. Lieberman began her career as a consumer writer for the Detroit Free Press where her reporting became a model for consumer writers across the country. She holds a B.S. with distinction, and an honorary doctorate of humane letters from the University of Nebraska. In 2011, Lieberman was named the Soderlund Visiting Professor in the College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Nebraska where she taught public affairs reporting.

Perry Memorial Hospital Family Health Clinic Coming to Perry in the Summer of 2016

Dr. Christopher Blanford Family Practice Physician

Dr. Christopher Blanford will be joining Dr. Robert Mestan, Dr. Arnold Faber, Trudy Argubright, FNP and Karen Nenne, FNP in the Perry Memorial Family Health Clinic in the summer of 2016.

Dr. Blanford was raised in Wyanet and graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford. He will complete his Family Practice Residency in the summer of 2016.

Experience the compassionate, quality services at Perry Memorial Hospital Family Health Clinic, in Suite 303 - Medical Office Building 815-875-4531.

530 Park Ave. East • 815-875-2811 www.perrymemorial.org

5 Health Matters Spring 2015 • 5

Health Matters

Hearing better thanks to smarter technology (BPT) — Technology has made dramatic improvements in the lives of people of all ages, and the improvements made in hearing technology may be some of the most advanced to occur in the last several years.

Just a decade ago, hearing aids were basic amplifiers. Now they’re completely connected with other technological devices, making everyday life easier for the wearer.

For example, have an iPhone and want to listen to music, or answer

a call and hear the person on the line? Starkey’s Halo hearing aids, and the companion TruLink app, allow the hearing devices to connect directly with an iPhone without the need for any other intermediary device.

There are more than 36 million Americans with hearing loss, yet only 20 percent of those who could benefit from a hearing aid actually wear one, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. The hope is that

the rapid improvements in technology mean that more people with hearing difficulties will opt to undergo a simple hearing test and find the perfect hearing aid, allowing them to return to the lifestyle of their choice.

Many people avoid getting hearing aids because of the perceived stigma attached to them. People worry they’ll look older or that they will be perceived to have a disability.

This is where technology improvements have made great strides. Devices

today are much smaller than the hearing aids your parents or grandparents wore. In fact, many are barely visible to others.

For example, the Halo is an in-the-canal receiver, making the entire device very discreet. Other devices are so small that no one will notice you are wearing them.

Hearing loss affects Americans of all ages.

Sometimes it’s caused by age, but frequently for younger adults, it can be caused by a disease or by over-exposure to loud

noises. Improvements in technology are changing the perception of hearing aids, so if you think you are experiencing hearing loss, get your hearing

Experience & Knowledge

Return Home Fast! Choose:

RESTORE

THERAPY SERVICES atWalnut Manor Nursing Home

Call Today!

379-2131

Providing the best in chiropractic care using the Gonstead Technique

308 S. Second St.

• Full-time Physical Therapist on staff • Individualized Therapy Programs • Smooth Transition from Hospital to Home

tested. If it’s determined you could benefit from a hearing aid, check out all the latest benefits you can enjoy due to these technological improvements.

Dr. Lori Schultz, Dr. Dennis Farrell and Dr. Jarred Farrell

Accepting New Patients

FARRELL

CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

facebook.com/HeritageOfCare www.WalnutManorNursingHome.com

682 East Peru Street • Princeton, IL • 815-875-4408 Mon. & Wed. 8-noon, 2-7 p.m. • Tues. & Fri. 8-noon, 2-6 p.m. • Thurs. 8-noon, 2-5 p.m. • Sat. 8-noon

6 6 • Spring 2015

Health Matters

Stay Local. Save Local.

Looking for fun in the Illinois Valley this spring 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!

7 Health Matters

Spring 2015 • 7

8 8 • Spring 2015

Health Matters