TON-01-09-2015

Volume 141 No. 5

Friday, January 9, 2015

Single Copy Cost 50¢

Flu reaches epidemic level Deaths reported in LaSalle and Bureau counties

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

OTTAWA — Flu-related deaths have been recorded in both LaSalle and Bureau counties this season. Cathy Lars-

en, director of nursing at the LaSalle County Health Department, reported two adult deaths from influenza A, and Diana Rawlings of the Bureau-Putnam County Health Department confirmed the death of an adult woman who resided in Bureau County was reported by a hospital outside of the area.

While the Center for Disease Control and Prevention is still recommending flu shots, this year’s shot isn’t completely effective against the strain causing deaths across the country. The CDC has

termed the current outbreak an epidemic, with Illinois one of the five hardest-hit states.

The fault isn’t with the flu shot. The leading flu virus this year is influenza A (H3N2), which has been linked to higher rates of hospitalization for those highly susceptible to infection, particularly the very young. Approximately 97 percent of the flu cases reported so far this flu season are strains of influenza A. The CDC predicted influenza A would be a threat, and this year’s flu vaccine contained an

A/Texas/50/2012 (H3N2)-like virus.

H3N2 is what’s known as a weakcell virus, which means it is subject to change when exposed to outside influences. H3N2 has mutated into a strain that is resistant to this year’s flu vaccine.

Many times after a person receives a flu shot, they take fewer precautions to keep from being infected, which has allowed this strain to spread rapidly.

According to the latest flu activity

More new laws for 2015

Unemployment steady in LaSalle County

By Goldie Currie Shaw Media Service

Statewide unemployment falls to 5.5 percent

Editor’s note: This is another story in an ongoing series about new laws that will go into effect in 2015.

On Jan. 1, more than 200 new laws went into effect in Illinois touching many areas of state government from education and public safety, to transportation and wild life.

Following are a few notable measures taking effect in when we turn the calendar to 2015.

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

According to the new monthly unemployment figures from the Illinois Department of Employment Security just released, things continue to improve in the state’s job market.

The state has fared well with unemployment, with the statewide level at 6 percent for November 2014, down from October’s 6.6.

Locally, the news was not as good, with LaSalle County’s unemployment steady at 7.9 percent, the same as October but still down from November 2013’s 11.0 percent.

Nationwide, the unemployment figure stands at 5.5 percent, down from last month’s 6 percent.

“Our local economies continue to grow at a steady, deliberate pace, just as they have throughout the year,” IDES Director Jay Rowell said.

“Diverse economies such as Illinois’ move deliberately because we have exposure in multiple sectors. Worker training programs driven by the private sector will lead to a more nimble workforce in a better position to qualify for unfilled job opportunities.”

The news is a mixed bag for neighboring counties. Bureau County’s numbers shrank to 7.2 percent unemployment compared to October’s 7.6 and November 2013’s 9.3 percent.

However, while most of the state continues to see unemployment shrink, Putnam County isn’t following the trend. Following last month’s figure of 6.6 percent, Putnam County’s unemployment percentage has inched up to 7.1 percent.

“November data follow trends established earlier this year. More people describe themselves working than one year ago and the labor force

Unemployment Page 2 Vol. 141 No. 5 One Section - 8 Pages

New technologies inspire new laws New technologies, like surveillance drones and online communication platforms, continue to develop, inspiring a number of new laws.

One law taking effect, prohibits a law enforcement agency from using a drone owned by a third party to acquire information.

Another new law will require a unit of local government or a school district that maintains a website (other than a social media or networking website), to post an email address that members of the public can use to communicate with elected officials of that unit of local government or school district.

In recent years, social media platforms, like Facebook and Twitter, have become increasingly popular.

Unfortunately, so has the practice of “cyber bullying.” In what some argue was an overreach of a school’s authority, a new law will require schools to address electronic bullying under certain circumstances, even if the bullying occurred off-campus and was conducted by using private computers, cell phones, etc.

Tonica News photo/Ken Schroeder

Rocking in the New Year The sun shines on visitors climbing the steps to the top of Starved Rock. Dozens of hikers braved the cold temperatures and strong winds for the Starved Rock State Park First Hike on Jan. 1. The First Hike is a program from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources which is encouraged in all Illinois State Parks. Starved Rock is the only local park which hosted the guided tour, with a hike to Starved Rock and into St. Louis Canyon.

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E-cigarettes A new law requires e-cigarettes to be sold from behind the counter in an age-restricted area, or in a sealed display case.

E-cigarettes, which do contain

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2 Local 2 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 9, 2015

Seeking Sources

Flu From Page 1

Where in the world is The Tonica News? Are you planning a vacation or holiday trip?

Don’t forget to take along a copy of the The Tonica News.

Once you get to your destination, have someone snap a photo of you holding the newspaper, and then send the photo to us along with pertinent information about who is in the photo and where you are. We’ll be happy to share your photo with other Tonica News readers, your friends, family and neighbors. Email your photo and information to news@tonicanews.com.

You can also drop it by our office in Tonica.

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Photos should be sent as an attachment.

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reports from the CDC, California is showing little-to-no flu activity, and the southwestern states show moderate flu activity. With few exceptions, the CDC has declared the rest of the nation under widespread activity.

Most area hospitals have placed restrictions on visitors during the flu epidemic. St. Margaret’s Hospital in Spring Valley and Illinois Valley Community Hospital in Peru will allow only two visitors at a time and no visitors under the age of 18.

Influenza antiviral drugs — Tamiflu (oseltamivir) and Relenza (zanamivir) — can reduce severe complications, such as hospitalization and potentially death, for people who are at high risk of serious flu complications or are very sick. Flu symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.

Treatment of high-risk patients should begin as soon after symptoms develop as possible, without waiting for lab tests to confirm flu

remains stable. Help wanted advertising continues to be steady,” Media Relations Director Greg Rivara said.

“Declines in professional and business services are concentrated in temporary help and likely are seasonal. Declines in retail trade are curious

infection.

“It is strongly recommended by the CDC that people consult with their medical provider as soon as they start exhibiting symptoms that could be influenza. Antivirals are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptoms,” Larsen said.

“The current vaccine is not a perfect match to the circulating viruses this year,” Larsen said.

“Getting the vaccine is still a recommendation even though a vaccinated person can still potentially contract influenza, the length or illness and severity of symptoms are often lessened by having gotten the flu shot.

The more people that receive the vaccine each year, the greater the ‘herd immunity,’ further protecting unvaccinated and low vaccine uptake people from potential influenza infection.”

Those at high risk from influenza include children younger than 5 years (especially those younger than 2 years); adults 65 years and older; pregnant women; and people with certain chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart or lung disease, and kidney disease. and could reflect more online purchasing activity rather than at brickand-mortar storefronts.”

The greatest job growth statewide was seen in the education and health services industry. The lowest unemployment figure in the state belongs to Henderson County where only 4.3 percent of the populace are unemployed.

Meeting calendar Jan. 12 Lostant Village Board, 7:30 p.m., Lostant Village Hall.

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Tonica News photo/Ken Schroeder

Outgoing Special Olympics Director Cheryl DePaepe (left) and new Director Allison Nichols discuss the future of Special Olympics in the Illinois Valley. DePaepe is stepping down to spend more time with family. She will continue to work part-time for the chapter she helped create 43 years ago.

Passing the Special Olympics torch DePaepe steps down as director

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

PERU — Since the beginning of the Special Olympics in LaSalle, Putnam, Bureau, Marshall, Henry, Stark and Grundy counties, the name Cheryl DePaepe has been nearly synonymous with the organization. That era is coming to an end.

DePaepe is stepping down as director of the local Special Olympics organization, a position she’s held since the idea started 43 years ago. In fact, she started the chapter.

“I started teaching — after graduating from college — in Putnam County in 1971, actually in the Hennepin building,” DePaepe said. “I had a junior high cross-categorical special education program. We received a letter saying there was a Special Olympics program in Illinois, and did we want to get involved?

“I brought it to my administration; I brought it to my students and my parents. They were interested, and we went to

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nicotine, seem to be the “wave of the future” and became popular because they don’t produce the smoke that conventional cigarettes do, but they still produce vapor.

Pregnancy accommodations Another new law requires employers to provide “reasonable accommodations” for all working pregnant women unless the accommodation would impose an “undue hardship” on the business.

‘Ban the Box’ Gives job applicants the opportunity to address questions about a past

our first Special Olympics games in Chicago in 1973.

We’ve been involved ever since then.”

After participating in the Chicago games, DePaepe said it was decided it would be a good idea to host games locally, and the idea of a “Special Sports Jamboree” was born. In 1977, the group was invited to the Special Olympics offices in Bloomington to see if there was interest in starting a Special Olympics chapter.

From these small acorns do giant trees grow ...

Stepping into the director’s position is Allison Nichols, but while DePaepe is stepping down, she makes it clear she’s not leaving just yet.

“I’m cutting back to part time and taking on a little bit of a different role,” she said. “Allison is replacing me as the area director. She and I have been working together to transition, and I will be available to continue with that as long as she needs. I’ll take on more of a consultant/mentorship role with the state Special Olympics office.”

DePaepe retired from teaching 10 years ago and became a full-time direc-

tor then. Now, she’s helping Nichols get accustomed to her new role and has a lot of faith in things continuing as they have.

“I was working over at JFK as a teacher’s aide in the special education room. I left that position for this one,” Nichols said.

“My degree is actually a corporate organizational communications degree, so between my degree — and I also worked at Lou’s LaGrotto helping set up the Concerts for a Cause — and my work at the school, I think this is a culmination of all I’ve learned in my professional life. When I started working in the school, the teacher that I worked with in the classroom was the coach for the team.

“I loved the kids, and it was very rewarding; so with my experiences when I saw there was an opening, I signed up,” Nichols said. “I thought it would be a good fit.”

DePaepe is looking forward to spending some downtime and seeing grandchildren that she doesn’t see often enough.

“I feel very confident turning the organization over to Allison, it’s going to grow and work out very well,” DePaepe said.

criminal record in person, during an interview. The new law prohibits private employers with 15 or more employees from asking a job applicant about their criminal history until the applicant has been selected for an interview, or if there is not an interview, until after a conditional offer of employment is made.

mobile homes and campers; or a watercraft under the parent or guardian’s control.

Liability for underage drinking Expands current law that makes it illegal for parents or guardians to allow underage drinking at a residence or other private property. State law will now include vehicles; conveyances; like trailers,

Wolves, bears, cougars The gray wolf, American black bear and cougar are added to the list of protected species in Illinois.

The new law also spells out conditions that allow landowners to kill the animals if they are causing an immediate threat of physical harm or death to a person, livestock, domestic animals or harm to structures or other property. In recent years, all three animals have started to return to Illinois in very limited numbers, and this is an effort to manage that reintroduction.

3 Obit Records Friday, January 9, 2015 • The Tonica News • 3

PADS provides services for three-county area

By Carol Alcorn

Special to Shaw Media Service

Where can homeless residents of LaSalle, Bureau or Putnam counties go for help?

There are many resources, but Illinois Valley PADS is like no other in that we provide a place to stay while finding help.

The poverty rate in LaSalle County is 11.2 percent; in Bureau County is 11.1 percent; and in Putnam County is 13.9 percent.

Combined based upon a total population of these counties, approximately 17,184 people live in poverty.

This combined with the unemployment and underemployment makes living very hard for many families and individuals.

Housing, food, clothing, transportation and medical care can seem an impossible achievement daily.

Illinois Valley PADS, having a facility in Peru

and Ottawa, provides a combined 74 beds to the homeless along with food, clothing and case management to assist in working through the issues causing homelessness.

PADS served 286 individuals last year, which included 24 families with a combined 29 children and 24 veterans. These individuals used a bed in the program 7,209 times and were served 13,840 meals. PADS provided clothing for 294 individuals through the shelters and its Lily Pads Resale Boutique. PADS records indicate 177 out of the 286 had no income to report. These individuals and families are the neighbors, friends and family members of many in area communities, since 90 percent are local or have local ties.

As Illinois Valley PADS continues to meet the needs and accomplish its mission of providing housing and food to

those in need, we also become “more than just a bed.”

Care, compassion and direction is part of our program to the homeless.

There is a partnership between the individual or family and the agency through an Individual Service Plan to assess their needs and find resources to address the issues of their homelessness.

There are employment needs, health needs, housing needs, educational needs and the need for someone to listen and care. Our dedicated volunteers in all of our programs are wonderful about how they care, listen and share their time and talents for the benefit of others.

Our staff works to provide classes in budgeting, computer skills and employment (how to get a job) skills. We offer a support group for those with specific issues. The goal of the mission is to

assist every individual in finding an income and permanent housing.

Illinois Valley PADS is part of a network of partner agencies that work together to address the hunger and homelessness in our area. If you want to know more about us, you can visit our website: www.ivpads.com.

You can donate financially, apply to volunteer or see our needs list to help with supplies. You can donate the in good condition items at home you no longer use to Lily Pads Resale Boutique and then shop our store at 4471 Progress Blvd. in Peru.

All proceeds generated by the industry and talent of our store volunteers and staff members support our local homeless shelters. You can also support your local food pantries. There are many ways in which you can be a part in helping those who are hungry and homeless.

Quad Cities Farm Show is Jan. 18-20 ROCK ISLAND — When the 24th edition of the Quad Cities Farm Show moves into the QCCA Expo Center, Rock Island, for its annual three-day run, Jan. 18-20, it will give area farmers the oppor-

tunity to see everything that’s needed for their farm for the next planting and harvesting. The show will feature more than 200 companies showing everything that’s new.

This year’s show will give

area farmers a chance to see some of the newest trends in agriculture first hand.

Show admission and parking are all free. The show will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday,

from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday. The QCCA Expo Center is located at 2621 Fourth Ave., Rock Island. For more information, call www.quadcitiesfarmshow.com.

Illinois River Road connects visitors to small businesses The Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway not only promotes the region’s natural sites between Ottawa and Havana, it now directs visitors to unique and authentic visitor-based businesses located throughout the byway region through its redesigned website and recently launched mobile site. With funding from Illinois Department of Transportation and Office of Tourism grants, these new products enhance the visitors’ experience, as well as provide small businesses opportunities to promote themselves to those traveling the 10-county byway region.

Anaise Berry, Byway executive director, states, “Byway travelers and nature tourists seek the off the beaten path experience — exploring communities’ history and attractions, dining

in restaurants that aren’t part of a national chain, shopping in distinctive stores, purchasing items made or grown here in the region, as well as staying in lodging facilities such as B&Bs, inns and boutique hotels. We want to connect visitors to the very businesses they’re looking for when traveling the Illinois River Road.”

In an economic development study completed by the Illinois River Road in 2012, the byway organization found that byway visitors wanted to know more about these kinds of experiences as part of their trip. Additionally, small byway businesses that were surveyed expressed a desire to be promoted on the Illinois River Road website, so that visiting consumers could find them more easily.

“Connecting byway travelers to small busi-

nesses is a win-win situation for visitors and small business owners,” stated Byway board member and small business owner Julie Hubbard.

With more than 150,000 visitors to the site annually, IllinoisRiverRoad. org helps connect nature and byway travelers to the small businesses that enrich their visit. The Illinois River Road website (IllinoisRiverRoad. org) now allows for those unique, locally-owned businesses that complement the visitor experience to be listed on the site, free of charge. The site also offers advertising opportunities in addition to the free listing.

Launched just in time for October fall foliage visitors and upcoming holiday activities is the Illinois River Road’s mobile site, providing easy access to information about Byway communities, nature sites,

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events, small businesses and attractions throughout the corridor. This new mobile site will assist visitors with trip planning while on the road.

For more information about the Illinois River Road or how to get a business listed, visit illinoisriverroad.org and click on Get Involved.

The Illinois River Road was designated one of America’s Byways in 2005 by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, which recognizes roads having outstanding archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities. It stretches 291 miles alongside the Illinois River from Ottawa to Havana and is notable for its natural and historic qualities. The Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway is a program of North Central Illinois Council of Governments.

Seminar discusses college tuition options PERU — College tuition options will be discussed at the Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development’s Business Breakfast Seminar on Wednesday, Jan. 14. A hot breakfast buffet starts at 7:15 a.m. with the program starting at 7:30 a.m. at Mario’s Maples Supper Club, 1401 Shooting Park Road, Peru.

Emily Carney, professional school counselor and division chair for Student Support Services at LaSalle-Peru High School; Patty Williamson, director of financial aid at Illinois Valley Community College, and Mark Grzybowski, interim associate vice president for Student Services and director of admission and records at

IVCC, will be the seminar presenters.

They will discuss scholarship opportunities, parent power sessions and additional resources for students and parents in preparation for post-secondary education. Other topics discussed will be making families aware of financial aid, IVCC Foundation Office and its role in financial educational opportunities for students and helping students realize their educational goals.

The $15 seminar fee for members and $18 for non-members includes breakfast. Reservations must be made by noon on Tuesday, Jan. 13 by calling the IVAC office at 815223-0227.

Extension offers testing for pesticide application OTTAWA — University of Illinois Extension’s Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, Putnam Unit will hold a testing-only session for private pesticide applicators at 10 a.m.

Jan. 21 at the LaSalle County Extension Office in Ottawa. Pre-registration is required. Certification is required to apply restricted-use pesticides. The sessions are in cooperation with the Illinois Department of Agriculture. The LaSalle County Extension Office is located at 1689 North

31st Road, Suite 2, in Ottawa. To register, call the University of Illinois Extension LaSalle County Office at 815-433-0707.

There is no charge for this session. Advance registration is required by Jan. 20.

New private applicator manuals were printed in 2011/2012. The workbook is new this year. Both can be purchased online or at local Extension offices. Extension offices are located in Princeton, Ottawa, Henry and in Oglesby on the IVCC campus.

Beef cattle meeting at IVCC Jan. 21 OGLESBY — The University of Illinois Extension will host a beef cattle meeting from 5 to 8 p.m.

Jan. 21 at Illinois Valley Community College, located at 815 N. Orlando Smith Road, Oglesby.

The dinner meeting will be held in Room CTC 124 (Peter Miller Community Technology Center). Registration deadline is Jan. 16.

The meeting will cover various topics that will help beef cattle producers make profit driven decisions. Incorporating cover crops as additional forage for beef cattle will be discussed along with different methods of cover crop establishment.

Many producers will find interest in cow nutrition discussions and the subsequent effects they have on reproduction. Getting cows bred in the current market should be at the top of everyone’s list.

Calving season is always an important, exciting time. Learn about calving season tips and gain more knowledge about your herd health’s role in profit.

Advance registration is required for meal planning. The cost is $10 per person, payable at the door and includes dinner.

For questions and to register, call Travis Meteer at 217-430-7030 or email wmeteer@gmail.com.

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4 Perspective 4 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 9, 2015

The Editorial Page The Tonica News Sam R Fisher

Terri Simon

Publisher

Editor

A deluge of delusional odds Against all odds, the humorous (yet unreliable) meteorologist had come through with a surprisingly accurate forecast.

Wrapping up the requisite Saturday afternoon exercises in home ownership, then retiring to the backyard (icy adult beverage in hand) to admire my handiwork, I noticed the thunderheads gathered on the horizon.

Seeking shelter under the awning, I was comforted in the knowledge that despite the imminent deluge, my debris-free gutter system would be more than capable of handling whatever Mother Nature decided to toss my way.

You see, I had become “That Guy.” The first indication appeared COMMENTARY years ago after spying (and being somewhat appalled by) 3-foot tall evergreens sprouting from the leafy compost of a neighboring gutter. Had it not been for the fact that the extension cord would have been easily traceable back to my garage, I had given thought to adorning them with colored Christmas lights and a blinking angel tree topper. Never would an arborist be able to identify a seedling along my roof line, I had promised myself.

If someone had approached me 25-plus years ago to inform me that one day I would have an almost debilitating obsession with leaf-free rain diversion devices, I would have laughed heartily before soundly ridiculing him with sarcasm. Nostradamus himself could not have prophesied such an outrageous scenario. Yet here I was, cracking open a second beer and nodding confidently at my own diligence as the windblown droplets began pelting the siding.

Suddenly, water began cascading over the front face of the aluminum trough hanging above me. In disbelief, I sprinted through the house and into the garage, where a side window allowed a clear vantage point from which to view the downspout. I saw nothing exiting the tube, yet 10 feet up, at the seam where the elbow met the spout, a geyser of rainwater was spraying skyward.

Throwing caution to the wind, I ripped the metal stepladder from where it hung, threw open the overhead door, and in sock feet, headed out into the storm.

Lightning flashed overhead as I scaled the ladder, drenched to the skin and becoming increasingly agitated. I blindly fished for what, I did not know. Finding nothing, I rappelled down the rungs, grabbed a long, flexible metal rod and headed to the outlet end of the pipe. Falling to my knees and cackling like a madman, I began ramming the rod up the spout, attempting to free the blockage. Nothing. I shook my fists at the heavens, and with a renewed fervor, thrust the steel dowel even deeper, as a Roman soldier impaling an enemy.

Feeling resistance give way, while noticing the trickle of water over my feet had become a stream, I suspected the obstruction had loosened itself. Then I watched as, with a gurgling sound, the waterlogged remains of a grackle shot across and discolored my socks.

Yes, the common grackle, the iridescent (and obviously) non-aquatic cousin of the blackbird ... more plentiful and only slightly less annoying than the Kardashians. Had this been the first “Tube Grackle” I encountered, it may have been shrugged off as an anomaly, but seeing as how this was the third consecutive season in which I fished a bird carcass from the pipes, I sensed a pattern.

Had it voluntarily squeezed in, attempting to nest there? Had it fallen in topside while foraging for insects or seeds? Was it washed unawares to a watery grave?

Unless I contact a decorated ornithologist, we may never know, but most likely I’ll simply purchase a longer rod ... and make sure I’m wearing rain boots next year.

Chuck Mason, a self-described opinionated wiseguy, can be reached at chuckthebluzguy@msn.com.

Chuck Mason

First Person Refugio Martinez Town: Tonica.

Occupation: Carpenter.

Family: My dad is Marty Martinez, my brother is Raymond Martinez.

Pets: We have a couple horses.

What is the last newspaper you read: The last newspaper I read was the Tonica News.

What is the last song you listened to: Something from Hank Williams.

What is the last TV show you watched: The Simpsons.

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only have one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be: Pork chops.

If you were stranded on a desert island and could take only one thing with you, what would it be: Radio.

If someone handed you a million dollars, what would you do with it: I’d give it all away to the poor.

What is a favorite local restaurant: House of Hunan.

What is one thing you like about your town: People are very friendly.

Would you change anything about your town: I think it is pretty good the way it is.

Under construction There’s a house that I live in. I moved into it my first day here. It is a place of warmth and security.

It is filled with love and affection, pictures adorned with smiles and adulation plastered upon every wall. The voices within speak of respect and admiration, discernment and dedication. I always invite the presence of loved ones within, as to further fill the structure with the necessary attributes to make this house a home.

Many thoughtful ideas and administrations have passed through my house through the years, bringing Christmas feasts or summer sensations. Individuals have left their imprint upon the paintings on the walls, and the couch cushions are softened by the seats of thousands who have stayed for a swig of liquid or simply the transferring of philosophy from one to another. The gifts I have received have been countless, and I find purpose in placing them where they most suitably fit into the scheme of interior design.

Lately in life, though, I have noticed small problems within my household, weakened links on a chain that was thought to be secure. The basement has had some flooding; the fridge has been witnessed in a state of barrenness on multiple occasions; the lights flicker; and the heating and cooling systems have malfunctioned at inconvenient moments during the hottest summer and coldest winter days. Sometimes I hear clanking noises in the attic or basement, the whoosh of a door shutting when no one else is around.

I have called the carpenter many times to schedule maintenance on my house, but I don’t ever seem to catch him with his phone on. That has troubled me at times because I was under the assumption that he would be available to reiterate the security that I have always sensed

Eric Engel COMMENTARY

within this household of mine. But I hear that he is a busy man, so it is but a temptation to find fault in his schedule.

Sometimes when I get home and walk into my house, it seems a bland and repetitive setting, one that I have not taken the time to freshen up, as if my spring cleaning projects extend unattended well into the winter hours. The faces in the pictures on the wall look faded, younger in each capture than they appear on this day, and I sit upon a chair in silence, pondering the ever mounting obstacles and tasks that seem to require my attention on a daily basis. I’ve never thought about moving out, as this is the house I reside in, but there have been moments when I’m compelled by curiosity as to why it is exactly that I moved in. I wish I could get a hold of the carpenter and see what he thought about it.

I noticed something the other day, though; something I had forgotten all about. I walked up the staircase for the first time in a while, and noticed tools up in the attic. Hammers and wrenches, screwdrivers and plumbing pipes, grocery bags and water vacuums.

They all seemed to be catalogued in sensible placement along the walls and workbenches. There was a book sitting on one of the tables that was an instruction manual of sorts on how to use all of these tools properly, and so I jumped into a few pages to try and pick up a little advice on how to fix what was broken within my house.

I grabbed the hammer and some nails to realign the pictures on the

wall, but when I got to them I realized that they were actually right in the spot where they all needed to be. I took the vacuum down to the basement, but the floor was already bone dry, not a droplet or a hint of mold anywhere to be found. I snagged the grocery bags, but mere moments before I headed to the market, I heard the fridge door close, and ran to find it full of nutritional sustenance and bottles of the purest water available.

In my amazement I looked over to the back door to see the carpenter leaving, his utility bag full of the tools he had used to fix all that was broken in my house. I called out to thank him, and he stopped and turned to me for a second with a smile and a soft wave of his hand, as if to say, “Your gratitude is appreciated, but I’m simply doing my job, and I now am off to tend to other houses that require my attention.”

The carpenter has always lived within this house, fixing before I even notice the fault. Teaching me how to handle all the tools properly, that I may acquire and then offer my knowledge to other homeowners. There are no floods that the carpenter does not mop up; no broken frames he cannot glue back together. He built this house and wants to see it stand soundly for the ages.

Fill your house with love. Hang every picture you have. Clean what is dirty and enjoy what you’ve accumulated. Don’t cry over spilled milk, for the carpenter is already at work replacing whatever is momentarily broken with an offering even finer than before.

You don’t even have to schedule an appointment. He knows, and he shows when he is needed, and his work is good.

Eric Engel of Peoria can be reached by e-mail at eazywritin84@yahoo.com.

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 Tonica News contacts the author of the letter to verify the signature. The Tonica News reserves the right to edit or refuse any Letter to the Editor.

5 Life Friday, January 9, 2015 • The Tonica News • 5

Community Celebrating the holidays at Lostant School

Photo contributed

First baby of 2015 at IVCH Abigail and Nathaniel Van Houten of Streator are the parents of the first baby to be born at Illinois Valley Community Hospital in Peru in 2015. Ethan Thomas Van Houten was born at 8:01 a.m. Jan. 2, weighing 10 pounds, 6 ounces and measuring 21 inches in length. He was welcomed home by a 5-year-old sister. Dr. Mitchell Khan delivered Ethan. There were 484 births at IVCH in 2014.

ITAC phones available LASALLE – Free amplified phones are available through the Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation program (ITAC). Qualified individuals must be legal residents of Illinois, have a doctor’s or audiologist’s signature verifying hearing loss and have standard phone service in the residence. There are no age or income restrictions.

An open house is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 14. Call now to schedule an appointment or request an application. Walk-ins are wel-

come, but appointments are preferred.

When you call IVCIL request that an application be sent to you and also schedule your appointment. Bring your application and copies of the required paperwork.

Please note you can come any day to see a representative about receiving a phone.

To get your application for a free phone, call the Illinois Valley Center for Independent Living at 815-224-3126. IVCIL is open 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

Children’s grief support group SPRING VALLEY — The children’s grief support group will meet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Jan. 13 at St. Margaret’s Hospital in Spring Valley. The group helps participants through life’s difficult changes of death, divorce and loss. For more information, call 815-664-1402.

LOSTANT — Lostant School had a great time for the holidays and celebrated in many ways.

A giving tree (pictured above) was set up and decorated, decorations were made, parties were held and a play was performed. RuthAnn Brizgis even made custom shirts (pictured at right) for some of the teachers to wear to their parties.

To see more photos of the fun activities at Lostant School, visit www. lostantcomets.org.

First woman lawyer in LaSalle County welcomes granddaughter into practice OTTAWA — A recent law school graduate kicked off the new year with her grandmother, the first female attorney in LaSalle County, expanding an Ottawa-based law firm Thursday.

Kathryn Baker, who graduated from Northern Illinois College of Law and passed the Illinois State Bar in October, said she’s excited to launch Barton & Baker with her “fiery” grandmother, Marilyn Barton, the first woman to practice law in Ottawa more than 40 years ago.

“Kate’s the only one of six grandkids I could talk into law,” Barton said. “I’m proud she’ll carry on the tradition, and I’m thrilled to start 2015 practicing law alongside my granddaughter.”

Barton started practicing law back in 1970, after serving as a Chicago Public School teacher for more than

a decade. She said she likes the idea of adding her granddaughter into her long-standing practice because, with similar strong personalities, the two make a good team.

Baker, who interned at Prairie State Legal Services in 2013 helping low-income clients, had initially sworn off becoming a lawyer in lieu of becoming a counselor. After being the youngest to graduate in her class at Bradley University with bachelor of science degrees in both psychology and sociology, Baker spent three years as a caseworker at the Illinois Institute for Addiction Recovery at Proctor Hospital in Peoria.

But Baker changed her mind about law when she realized how pivotal and active a role counseling could take in helping clients navigate through legal cases, especially divorce.

“Clients come in dealing with the worst break up of their life,” Baker said. “They have to adjust to dividing their property, sometimes their children. When I realized how much family law involved counseling, I saw a way to connect with people and help them in a different way.”

Barton and Baker, a law firm based in a log cabin office in Ottawa, provides personalized legal assistance in family law, bankruptcy, traffic law, criminal law, and workers’ compensation law.

“We’re all about helping the community with better service and a personal approach,” Barton said.

“We care about our clients: They are more than just a case number to us. And with Kate on board, we can provide greater help to the people in our community.”

St. Margaret’s will offer lipid profile and glucose screening SPRING VALLEY — St. Margaret’s Hospital will offer a lipid profile and glucose screening from 7 to 9 a.m. Jan. 14. in the hospital’s first floor presentation room. The $20 fee includes a check of cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL and LDL. A 12-hour food and beverage fast is recommended for more accurate results. Registration is recommended by calling St. Margaret’s at 815-664-1486.

6 Life 6 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 9, 2015

Menus Lostant Grade School Breakfast Jan. 12 – Apple cinnamon bar, cereal, granola, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Jan. 13 – French toast sticks, syrup, cereal, granola, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Jan. 14 – Cereal bar, cereal, granola, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Jan. 15 – Uncrustable, cereal, granola, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Jan. 16 – Biscuits and gravy, cereal, granola, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Lunch Jan. 12 – Tenderloin on bun, tater tots, apricots, milk.

Jan. 13 – Ham and Au gratin potatoes, corn, Jello with fruit, milk.

Jan. 14 – Sloppy Joe on bun, chips, California fruit mix, milk.

Jan. 15 – Pork chop, buttered noodles, Capri blend veggies, pears, milk.

Jan. 16 – Chicken nuggets, French fries, applesauce, milk.

Tonica Grade School Photo contributed

Lostant Grade School students Caden Mertes (from left), Kristen Schappaugh, Katelynn Lucas, Jordan Palcuk and Alex Larson performed ‘What, No Santa?” on Dec. 22 during a Reader’s Theater at the school.

Lostant students perform play

By Leslie Smith

Special to The Tonica News

LOSTANT — On Dec. 22, Jill Newbold invited parents and friends to a Reader’s Theater at the school. The students performed a play about Santa called “What, No Santa?” The

play was about Santa being too sick to deliver presents, so Mrs. Claus had to dress as Santa to deliver presents to all the children.

Caden Mertes played Santa, Kristen Schappaugh (Marjorie Archdale’s daughter filled in for Allison Harper, who was sick that day)

played Mrs. Claus, Katelynn Lucas played Jingle the elf, Alex Larson played Winkey the elf, and Jordan Palcuk played Blinky the elf. The children did a great job and all the visitors really enjoyed the show.

For more photos of the event, visit www.lostantcomets.org.

LPHS announces Illinois State Scholars LASALLE – LaSalle-Peru Township High School principal Deb Nelson announced 28 students have been named Illinois State Scholars for the 2014-2015 school year.

The full list of Illinois State Scholars from LaSalle-Peru High School

is: Rachel Agostino, Jena Argubright, Ross Baker, Drew Barto, Benjamin Bejster, Luke Dresbach, Ava Gillespie, Connor Hickey, Kayla Howe, Elizabeth Huss, Joseph Jozwiak, Brett Kowalczyk, Kage Kowalski, Taylor Kreiser, Abbey Lauer, Col-

tyn Lazzarotto, Addison Lijewski, Justin Meyer, Cameron Mignone, Erik Milaicki, Christopher Moshage, Emily Piecha, Shana Puetz, Teagan Pyszka, Trevor Royse, Karlee Starkey, Michael Vollmer and Kristi Wallin.

St. Margaret’s Cardiac Chat meeting is Jan. 13 SPRING VALLEY — Cardiac Chat, a meeting for anyone with heart-related issues or for anyone who lives with someone with heart problems, will meet from 3 to 4 p.m. Jan. 13 in the first floor presentation room at St. Margaret’s Hospital in Spring Valley. This meeting is free to the public.

The goal of Cardiac Chat is for individuals to learn the skills to help manage their condition and improve their quality of life. Family mem-

bers are encouraged to also attend and bring questions. Attend for the whole hour or just stop in during the scheduled time. Staff members from various departments in the hospital will be on hand monthly to answer various questions: Nurse – blood pressure, pulse and weight.

Durable medical equipment – questions about medical equipment, oxygen.

Social services – see what resourc-

es are available in the community – home health, etc.

Pharmacist – discuss and answer any questions about medications.

Cardiac rehab – discuss physical activity and smoking cessation.

Dietitians – dietary changes and weight management.

Managed care – answer any questions about insurance/Medicare plans.

For more information regarding Cardiac Chat, call 815-664-1118.

ARE YOU READY FOR LIFE’S NEXT BIG ADVENTURE?

Breakfast Jan. 12 – Sausage and egg breakfast bagel, cereal, granola, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Jan. 13 – Pancakes, cereal, granola, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Jan. 14 – Scrambled eggs, cereal, granola, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Jan. 15 – Waffle, cereal, granola, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Jan. 16 – Muffin, cereal, granola, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Lunch Jan. 12 – Sloppy Joe meat on bun, Romaine lettuce, fruit, Chex mix, milk.

Jan. 13 – Chicken nuggets, cauliflower and carrots, hummus cup, pears, milk.

Jan. 14 – Chili, bread bowl, cheese cup and crackers or peanut butter and jelly, green beans, fruit, pudding, milk.

Jan. 15 – Baked potato, diced ham, cheese cup, dinner roll or peanut butter and jelly, steamed broccoli, fruit, milk.

Jan. 16 – Cheese or sausage pizza, fruit/veggie bar, milk.

Putnam County Community Center Jan. 12 – Beef stew, buttered noodles, bread, carrots, applesauce.

Jan. 13 – Chicken and noodles, fruit cocktail, rolls and butter, green beans, fruit juice, dessert.

Jan. 14 – Fish squares, au gratin potatoes, rolls and butter, green beans, fruit juice, dessert.

Jan. 15 – Cabbage rolls, rolls and butter, carrot sticks, banana, dessert.

Jan. 16 – Cabbage rolls, rolls and butter, carrot sticks, banana, dessert.

Meals available for people over 60. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. Call 800-757-4579 at least 24 hours in advance for lunch reservations. Menus are subject to change.

••• Items for the Community section can be emailed to news@tonicanews.com.

Enjoy Hometown banking with your neighbors and friends!

Agricultural Operating & Real Estate Loans MEMBER

LET ONE OF OUR EXPERT LOAN OFFICERS BE YOUR GUIDE WITH A REAL ESTATE LOAN FROM ILLINI STATE BANK

FDIC

www.illinistatebank.com 230 S. LaSalle St. • Tonica, IL 61370 • (815) 442-8211 206 S. Main St. • Lostant, IL 61334 • (815) 368-3333 301 S. Columbia Ave. • Oglesby, IL 61348 • (815) 883-8400

7 Classifieds Friday, January 9, 2015 • The Tonica News • 7

PC-Hall wins two of three

By Dixie Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

Where in the World is the Tonica News?

Sarah Walczynski holds a copy of the Tonica News at the Bridge of Sighs, in Venice, Italy. Walczynski and her husband, Mark, visited Italy in December. The Bridge of Sighs spans the Rio di Palazzo, connecting the interrogation room of the Venetian Doge, where prisoners were questioned by Venetian officials, to the prison where the accused served time for their alleged crimes. The name of the bridge refers to the sigh the prisoner would breathe, seeing their last view of their beloved Venice, as they were escorted across the structure to the jail, according to legend.

Herb program in Henry HENRY — An educational gardening program presented by University of Illinois Extension master gardener Dave Dunagan will be at 1:30 p.m.

Jan 13 at the University of

Illinois Extension — Marshall-Putnam Extension Office, located at 509 Front St. in Henry.

Herbs will be the topic for this program. There will be no fee to partici-

pate in this program, but registration is required for needed handouts.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate contact 309-3642356.

–––– Classifieds –––– General Terms and Policies The Tonica News 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: • Friday Paper deadline Friday before by 3pm We Accept Call 815-875-4461 classified@bcrnews.com

- 200 Employment 232 • Business Opportunities ********** THE CLASSIFIED Advertising Department of the Tonica News 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 Tonica News 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

232 • Business Opportunities ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICES RIGHT HERE! The Tonica News 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 Antique white Roper stove, red handles, $250; beautiful pedestal table, 6 leaves, can seat 25 people, $500. 352-804-6114 Gold club Adams 4, Tight Lies fairway wood, new, $75. Call 815-872-1906 Mobility scooter, slightly used Echo 3 Shoprider, new batteries August. Will go 8 miles on a charge $250. 815-876-6083 Pixma MG 2120 all in one printer. Copy, scan, print, and print great photos. like new. $30.

Call 815-663-0122 ************ 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!

XL Brown leather jacket, like new. $150 firm.

Call 815-303-7320 Yield House oak table with drawer, 21"x28"x36" height $25; Broan exhaust hood & fan, Almond color $20. Call 815-643-2593

WANTING TO SELL YOUR CAR? Call 815-875-4461

- 700 Real Estate For Sale 767 • Mobile Home Sales **************** 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

DO YOU HAVE A PLACE TO SELL OR RENT? The Tonica News Classified can help you find the right person to move in.

999 • Legal Notices IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LA SALLE COUNTY OTTAWA, ILLINOIS IN RE: ) THE ESTATE OF ) ALLAN J. WOECKEL,) DECEASED. ) NO. 2014-P-226 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is hereby

KEWANEE – Putnam County-Hall took to the road for a quadangular meet on Jan 3. The squad took on Farmington, Ashton-Franklin Center (AFC) and Kewanee high schools and won two of the three meets.

PC-Hall earned 59 points to Farmington’s 6 points in the first meet.

At the 132-pound weight class, Mario Flores defeated Adam Peters by pinfall at :59 seconds.

Ben Garland took Cody Fernandus by pinfall at :45 seconds into their meet in the 152-pound weight division. At 170

pounds, James Hall defeated Carter King by technical fall 18-3. Evan Kiphart defeated Chris Wolf by pinfall at 1:25 at the 182-pound level.

In the heavyweight division, Shane Khouhna defeated Jon Schmidgall by pinfall at 2:59.

Charlie McCook, Jimmy Hewitt, Luke McCook, Eric Cissell and Marquis Briddick all won by forfeit.

When PC-Hall and Kewanee met, results were not as favorable.

The team took a loss, 28-48. Flores defeated Lewis Robinson 11-4 at 132 pounds. Garland took Raful Solano at the 152-pound weight class

by pinfall at 2:36. Luke McCook, wrestling at 160 pounds, defeated Cameron Rohrig by pinfall at 3:32. Briddick won the 195-pound weight class by forfeit.

In the final meet of the day PC-Hall won over AFC, 54-24. Flores won his match at 132 pounds.

Charlie McCook won at 126 pounds. Garland wrestled his way to a win at the 152-pound division. McCook took the prize at the 160-pound weight class, and Briddick won in his weight division.

PC-Hall traveled to Morrison on Jan. 8. Head coach for the squad is Jerry Kriewald.

Library corner Lostant Library The Lostant Library hosts Library Time each week. This birth to pre-school program for children and their caretakers has resumed after the holiday break. Volunteer Shauna Breckenridge, with assistance from the Oglesby Public Pre-School program, is host. The event is from 10 to 10:45 a.m. on Tuesdays and includes stories, singing, crafts and a snack.

For more information about the library, call 815-368-3530.

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

given of the death of Allan J. Woeckel, late of Ottawa, Illinois.

Letters of office were issued on November 26, 2014, to James Schmidt, whose attorney is Gary Gearhart, GEARHART LAW OFFICE, 951 Fifth Street, LaSalle, Illinois 61301.

Claims against the Estate may be filed with the office of the Circuit Clerk, Probate Division, Downtown Courthouse, 119 W. Madison St., Ottawa, Illinois, or with the representative, or both, within six (6) months from the date of issuance of letters. 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 and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.

ANDREW SKOOG Clerk of the Circuit Court Gary L. Gearhart GEARHART LAW OFFICE Attorney for Plaintiff 951 Fifth Street LaSalle,IL 61301 Phone: (815) 223-8009 FAX: (815) 223-8003 Published in the Tonica News Dec. 26, 2014 and Jan. 2 and 9, 2015.

Gearhart, GEARHART LAW OFFICE, 951 Fifth Street, LaSalle, Illinois 61301.

Claims against the Estate may be filed with the office of the Circuit Clerk, Probate Division, Downtown Courthouse, 119 W. Madison St., Ottawa, Illinois, or with the representative, or both, within six (6) months from the date of issuance of letters. 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 and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.

ANDREW SKOOG Clerk of the Circuit Court Gary L. Gearhart GEARHART LAW OFFICE Attorney for Plaintiff 951 Fifth Street LaSalle,IL 61301 Phone: (815) 223-8009 FAX: (815) 223-8003 Published in the Tonica News Dec. 26, 2014 and Jan. 2 and 9, 2015.

answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the office of the Clerk of this Court, LaSalle County Courthouse, 119 W. Madison Street, Ottawa, IL 61350, on or before January 20, 2014, a Judgment or decree by default may be taken against you for the relief asked for in the complaint.

ANDREW SKOOG LaSalle County Circuit Court Gary L. Gearhart #0927864 GEARHART LAW OFFICE Attorney for Plaintiff 951 Fifth Street LaSalle,IL 61301 Phone: (815) 223-8009 FAX: (815) 223-8003 Published in the Tonica News Dec. 26, 2014 and Jan. 2 and 9, 2015.

of 1975, the date stated in that notice. Any claim not filed by that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk are to be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed.

Dated this 15th day of December, 2014 s/ Andrew F. Skoog LaSalle County Circuit Clerk Published in the Tonica News Dec. 26, 2014 and Jan. 2 and 9, 2015.

LaSalle, IL 61301 815-223-6600 Published in the Tonica News Jan. 2, 9 and 16, 2015.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LA SALLE COUNTY OTTAWA, ILLINOIS IN RE: ) THE ESTATE OF ) LAWRENCE W. ) LINDGREN, ) DECEASED. ) NO. 2014-P-227 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is hereby given of the death of Lawrence W. Lindgren, late of LaSalle, Illinois.

Letters of office were issued on November 26, 2014, to Linda Ator, whose attorney is Gary

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LA SALLE COUNTY OTTAWA, ILLINOIS IN RE: ) THE MARRIAGE OF ) GINA F. GENGLER, ) Petitioner, ) and ) DAVID M. GENGLER,) Respondent. ) NO. 2014-D-329 NOTICE BY PUBLICATION The requisite Affidavit for Publication having been filed, Notice is hereby given you, DAVID M. GENGLER, that this case has been commenced in this Court by the Petitioner against you for dissolution of marriage and other relief.

Unless you file your

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LASALLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS IN PROBATE ESTATE OF ) DAVID J. SAUTER, ) Deceased ) NO. 2014-P-233 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of David J. Sauter.

Letters of Office were issued on December 4, 2014 to Noelle L. Sauter as Independent Executor, whose attorneys are Russell, English, Scoma & Beneke, P.C., Ten Park Avenue West, Princeton, Illinois 61356.

Claims against the Estate may be filed in the office of the Circuit Clerk, LaSalle County Courthouse, Ottawa, Illinois 61350, or with the representative, or both, on or before June 26, 2015, or if mailing or delivery of a notice from the representative is required by Section 18-3 of the Probate Act

CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LASALLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF ) JEAN E. BLOCK ) Deceased ) No. 2014-P-241 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of JEAN E. BLOCK. Letters of Office were issued on December 19, 2014, to Gregory F. Block, 1285 Sunnyshore Drive, Varna, IL 61375 as Executor whose attorney is Bernabei, Balestri & Fiocchi, 149 Gooding Street, LaSalle, Illinois 61301.

Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of Court, LaSalle County Courthouse, Ottawa, Illinois 61350, 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 and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.

Dated this 19th day of December, 2014.

Attorney John Balestri Attorney for Estate 149 Gooding Street

CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LASALLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF ) RUTH HOGE ) Deceased ) No. 2014-P-242 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of RUTH HOGE. Letters of Office were issued on December 19, 2014, to Terry Hoge, 825 E. 9th Road, Wenona, IL 61377, as Executor whose attorney is John Balestri, 149 Gooding Street, LaSalle, Illinois 61301.

Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of Court, LaSalle County Courthouse, Ottawa, Illinois 61350, 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 and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.

Dated this 22nd day of December, 2014.

Attorney John Balestri Attorney for Estate 149 Gooding Street LaSalle, IL 61301 815-223-6600 Published in the Tonica News Jan. 2, 9 and 16, 2015.

LEGAL NOTICES The Tonica News Classified MarketPlace brings you the public and legal information you have a right to know.

Check out each publication for information and stay informed!

8 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 9, 2015

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