1 Front Volume 143 No. 6
Friday, January 13, 2017
Single Copy Cost 50¢
Year in review Remembering 2016 Compiled
by
Dave Cook
news@tonicanews.com
FADING RESOLUTIONS Focused to be fit for the entire year By Dave Cook
In the photo
news@tonicanews.com
PERU — Losing weight and improving fitness are the most common New Year’s resolutions. While easier said than done no matter what page of the calendar we’re on, it’s especially difficult after several weeks of enjoying Christmas parties and family gatherings. Illinois Valley YMCA CEO David Potthoff recently discussed the New Year’s rush and provided some advice on how to achieve fitness goals. According to Potthoff, the YMCA has approximately 10,000 members who travel from throughout the Illinois Valley to take advantage of their facilities.
According to Illinois Valley YMCA CEO David Potthoff, walking and treadmills are among the most popular choices for those beginning the new year with a goal of improved fitness. One tip for success was to make fitness routines enjoyable by exercising with friends and family. Other helpful advice was to try a variety of activities and to not do “too much too soon.” (Tonica News photo/Dave Cook) He said one of the fastest growing segments of membership are seniors, and their most commonly chosen activities are walking or using a treadmill. Frequent mistakes of those beginning to live a more fit lifestyle are “doing too much too soon.” “You don’t need to come every day. The best way to ensure success is to
take it slow and have support from a partner, friend or family member; socialization is key. If you go through the gym, you’ll see as much socializing as you do exercise,” Potthoff said. Another bit of advice he offered was to prioritize fitness like you would anything else you have to do.
Resolutions Page 2
TONICA — Editor’s note: This is the second story in a three-part series recapping events that occurred in the Tonica-Lostant area during 2016. May 6 The loss of funding caused by the budget stalemate in Springfield threatens school operations. The IVCC Chem Club holds its annual Sci-Fest which includes dozens of handson demonstrations of various scientific principles. Sci-Fest set a new attendance record of more than 600 visitors. May 13 Hundreds of athletes from the Starved Rock/Area 16 Special Olympics gathered with their fans and families at Hall High School to take part in the 2016 Spring Games. More than a dozen events were held and gold medal winners qualified to compete at the Illinois State Summer Games. May 20 The Tonica Village Board discussed what they should do about the conditions of 1950th Road and Cherry Street. May 27 In the wake of previous program cuts, the Tonica School Board discussed ways to raise fees in order to generate more revenue so more programs aren’t cut. The Tonica School Board discussed possible new rules regarding accommodations for transgender students. June 3 The longtime tradition of Tonica Picnic Day continues at Tonica Grade School. The Illinois Senate approves renaming the section of Route 251 which runs from Tonica to Mendota the Witczak Brothers Memorial Highway. June 10 Lostant Grade School students celebrated the end of the school year with a field trip to the Peru YMCA and the Link Aquatic Center.
Review Page 3
Telling tales of local valor
Darrell Alleman proudly displays his new book, “Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue: Stories of Everyday People at War,” a collection of 317 interviews he’s conducted with local combat veterans.
Granville author publishes stories of combat veterans By Dave Cook
news@tonicanews.com
Tonica News photo/Dave Cook Vol. 143 No. 6 One Section - 8 Pages
GRANVILLE — Life is often quiet and simpler in small rural towns, yet war has consistently disrupted that life. Many men from our small towns and farms have left to fight for our country, and while some didn’t return, those who did have never forgotten what they’ve experienced. A local author has recently pub-
man immediately knew who to approach. “I’ve always had the greatest respect for all veterans,” Alleman said. “I felt good after writing that story, so I started interviewing more and more veterans, but I’d never thought about writing a book.” Alleman’s wife, Jeanne, who edited his writing, provided the needed encouragement to turn the 317 short stories into a book. He said many of his friends are veterans, and while not a veteran himself, he said they often joke he’s one of them.
Valor Page 3
FOR KETTMAN PREVENTIVECALLMAINTENANCE SM-PR494947-0113
HEATING & PLUMBING, INC.
© The Tonica News
lished a collection of their stories titled, “Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue: Stories of Everyday People at War.” Darrell Alleman of Granville began writing veteran stories in 2005 after being asked by the newspaper to profile a local Vietnam veteran for Memorial Day. “I’d been writing stories for many years for the Granville Rotary, as well as for the Marshall-Putnam Fair and the Putnam County Republican Party,” Alleman said. A local Vietnam veteran had recently shared his story with the Granville Rotary, so Alle-
Look for the man in the Orange & White Van!
ON YOU FURNACE TODAY! 815-339-6124
50 Years of Service
Generators
GENERAC SERVICE DEALER
107 East Harrison Court • Granville, IL • www.kettmanheating.com • 815-339-6124
2 Local
2 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 13, 2017
Area athletes participate in Special Olympics
Seeking Sources 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.
(USPS 633340) Published every Friday at Tonica, IL 61370 Entered at Tonica Post Office as Periodical Mail $22 In LaSalle County $25 Outside of LaSalle County
Contact Publisher Sam Fisher sfisher@tonicanews.com Editor Terri Simon tsimon@tonicanews.com
Email to:
news@tonicanews.com. Photos should be sent as an attachment. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Tonica News, P.O. Box 340, Princeton, IL 61356
MTM Recognition is chosen vendor for all awards PRINCETON — The Special Olympics Illinois, Area 16 – Starved Rock held its annual winter games at Bureau County Fairgrounds on Jan. 7. More than 100 athletes participated in snowshoeing events, and volunteers came from multiple counties. Special Olympics is a global organization that unleashes the human spirit through the transformation of power and joy of the sport, every day around the world. Area 16 – Starved Rock encompasses Henry, Stark, Bureau, Putnam, Marshall, LaSalle and Grundy counties. Allison Nichols, area director, couldn’t stop saying how much she loved her job, the Special Olympic events being her favorite part. Nichols coordinates all the events, venues, sponsorships, volunteers, athletes and more for Area 16. Nichols is always looking for volunteers for these events. Jim Arbet travels to almost every location to hand-engrave the medals (MTM Recognition is the chosen vendor of Special Olympics for all awards). Sarah Nestler helps at many events as a first-aid and “911 decision maker.” Long-time Special Olympics volunteer, Dawn Dabler, said,“Special Olympics is my pas-
Tonica News photo/Dave Cook
Athletes race toward the finish line at the Special Olympics Winter Games held at the Bureau County Fairgrounds in Princeton. sion.” It was seen throughout the day as she helped every athlete, fellow volunteer and knew all their names! All the athletes showed exemplary pride, sportsmanship and camaraderie. There are more than two dozen events for athletes to participate in, including snowshoeing, cross country skiing, equestrian, golf, basketball,
Resolutions
Top New Year’s resolutions for 2017
From Page 1 “Too many people take the approach of placing exercise at the end of their priorities as in ‘I’ll do it as soon as I’m done with everything else.’ and then they end up not doing it; you have to keep it important,” he said. Variety was another suggestion as a way to not lose focus of desired goals. “Have fun, try unique things and don’t get pigeon-holed; we have many different things here people can try, and they’ll all capable of helping to improve fitness,” Potthoff said. As badly as many of us want to be more fit in the new year, many resolutions fade away. Potthoff said those who begin because of a New Year’s resolution can often begin to visit less around March. “People think they don’t need to continue because it’s nice outside and they’re enjoying the weather, but being outside doesn’t mean you’re exercising,” he said. He also advised against purchasing a single piece of home exercise equipment.
volleyball, tennis and more. Upcoming events include Area Basketball Individual Skills in Granville (Jan. 21) and District Basketball in Byron (Jan. 29). The major fundraiser for Area 16, the Polar Plunge fundraiser, is being held Feb. 25 at Lake Mendota – participants must raise a minimum of $100 in donations in exchange for jumping into Lake Mendota.
Of those people making resolutions, the following percentages of people make these promises to start off the new year: Stay fit and healthy - 37 percent Lose weight - 32 percent Enjoy life to the fullest - 28 percent Spend less, save more - 25 percent Spend more time with family and friends - 19 percent Get organized - 18 percent Will not make any resolutions - 16 percent Learn something new/new hobby 14 percent Travel more - 14 percent Read more - 12 percent Source: Nielsen survey.
“Eighty-five percent of that kind of equipment ends up becoming a clothes hanger, and that’s something that will cause you to quickly lose motivation,” he said.
Peru man arrested on drug felony PERU — Jeremy R. Lannen, 23, of 1401 Bluff St., Apartment 2, Peru, was arrested at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 4 at his residence. Detectives with the Peru Police Department Special Investigations Unit arrested Lannen following their continuing effort to target heroin distribution in the Peru area. With the assistance of the LaSalle County States Attorney’s office, SIU detectives secured an arrest warrant against Lannen for the Class 3 felony charge of unlawful delivery of a lookalike substance alleging he delivered as substance
Say Goodbye to Monthly Bills
Liberty Estates Elegant Retirement Apartments
• Delicious Buffet Style Lunch & Dinner • Utilities and Weekly Housekeeping • Social Outings and Events • Free Membership to AJ’s - On Site Fitness Center • “Village Blend” Coffee Shop • Complimentary Wireless Internet
Liberty Estates 1107 31st St., Peru • 815-224-2200 2322 Eastwood Avenue, Streator • 815-672-1900 www.simplythefinest.net
319238
Simply The Finest In Retirement Lifestyles
Not For Profit Provider
To purchase your copy today! Call Darrell Alleman @ 815-339-6564 Price $40 SM-PR2651918-0119
To learn about how you can become involved with Special Olympics Illinois, Area 16 – Starved Rock as an athlete, coach, volunteer or sponsor, contact Nichols at 815-220-8128 or anichols@soill.org. The website can be found at https://www.soill.org/ area16/. For more information about Polar Plunge, visit https:// sss.soill.org/polar-plunge/.
purported to be heroin as part of an undercover police operation in July 2016. Upon analysis of the substance at a state crime lab, detectives recently secured the arrest warrant against Lannen. Lannen was taken to the LaSalle County Jail on a $25,000 bond. “The Peru Police Department has committed many resources to fighting the heroin epidemic in our area. Detectives will continue their enforcement efforts and have made it the top priority of our in-house drug unit,” said Peru Police Chief Doug Bernabei.
3 Obit/Record
Friday, January 13, 2017 • The Tonica News • 3
Tonica Volunteer Fire Department: Year-end activity report TONICA — The Tonica Volunteer Fire Department (TVFD) responded to 14 emergency calls during December, including one accident, 12 ambulance calls and one odor investigation. There were no fires. The TVFD responded to a total of 172 emergency calls during 2016 which is a record for the department. The 2016 calls involved 17 fires, 24 accidents, 102 medical calls and 29 other emergency responses. Department members worked with structure, vehicle and field fires,
mutual aid change-ofquarters, carbon monoxide, downed wires, weather alerts, rescues, false alarms and Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) rescue activations. The remainder of the calls were medical emergencies or good intent calls. The TVFD also provided assistance to the Oglesby, Leonore, Lostant, Utica, McNabb, Peru, Cedar Point, Standard and Grand Ridge fire departments. The TVFD received aid from the Oglesby and Lostant departments.
Review From Page 1
Chief Al Stremlau has emphasized a need for additional active volunteers. With the increased number of emergency calls and the reduced number of trained fire and EMS personnel, a heavier load is being added to the current membership. The services of the TVFD are provided without property taxation. Donations and active volunteers keep these services available. The department will be sending a mailer to residents in the rural area to request a monetary donation.
Cold, dry December ends a warm year in Illinois CHAMPAIGN — The statewide average temperature for December was 28.6 degrees, 1.3 degrees below normal, according to Illinois State Climatologist Jim Angel, Illinois State Water Survey, University of Illinois. December precipitation was light and below normal across most of Illinois, except for far southern Illinois. The statewide average precipitation was 1.41 inches, 1.28 inches below normal. Precipitation includes rainfall and the water content of snow. The largest reported precipitation total in Decem-
ber was 6.03 inches in Rosiclare in Hardin County. December snowfall was absent in far southern Illinois and increased northward. Only northern Illinois received above-normal snowfall. The largest monthly snowfall total was 24.3 inches in Bull Valley in McHenry County. For the year 2016, the statewide average temperature was 54.7 degrees, 2.4 degrees above normal and the fifth warmest year on record. Temperatures were above normal in 10 out of 12 months. The only two months that were colder than normal were
Valor From Page 1 “I was married in January of 1951 and received my draft notice in March. Korea was very active then. We were living in Tonica at the time, and all the Tonica boys went off to war, and I was the only one sent home,” Alleman said. Rheumatic fever at age 14 had left him with a heart murmur and diabetes. “I was called up twice more and eventually received a 4-F card which was terribly embarrassing. I would’ve liked to have gone, but I would’ve hated to leave my wife too,” he said. Alleman has spent his entire life within a 14-mile area between Tonica and Granville. He farmed the same land near Magnolia for 49 years before moving back to Granville, and he knows the area and its people well.
County’s 1st Stop For Plumbing & Heating
May and December. The statewide average precipitation for 2016 was 39.63 inches, 0.33 inches below normal. Eight out of the 12 months had below-normal precipitation. The year would have been dry except for the record rainfall in July and August. Annual precipitation was highest in southern Illinois and lowest in western Illinois. In fact, much of western Illinois received precipitation of several inches below normal for the year. The most precipitation reported in Illinois for 2016 was 60.46 inches at Rosiclare in Hardin County.
He said, “The common thread in all these stories is they’re all ordinary people, just like you and I, but they left their homes and families for years, and some never came back.” He also said he’s seen no differences in the veterans from World War II up to the modern conflicts of Iraq and Afghanistan, saying, “Everyone said, ‘War is hell,” and there isn’t one who doesn’t fly the flag at their home because they’ve all seen their friends die in war. They’ve all seen so much, and I’m very thankful to them for sharing their stories with me.” Alleman said he’s been approached by the Putnam County Library to present a program about his collected stories, and while he hasn’t confirmed yet, he’s considering it. He also said he plans to donate copies of his book to the county’s libraries. For more information or to purchase a copy, priced at $40, call Darrell Alleman at 815-339-6564.
Stay Warm this Winter!
PLUMBING & HEATING, INC.
Hurst Funeral Home Tonica, IL
223-0380
SM-PR494638-1230
Maze Lumber offers a large selection of cabinets & more for your kitchen!
SM-PR494930-0128
O v er 1 6 8 Years
Since 184 8
It’s getting cold, and we have the warmest solution in town!
1100 Water St., Peru, IL
FREE ESTIMATES! 404 W. Main St., McNabb, IL www.grassersplumbingheating.com
that they’d like to see a change. IVCC and the U of I Extension begin a partnership to develop a soil research program on approximately 149 acres of IVCC farmland near the campus. Aug. 5 The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) announces it will award a $36,778.01 Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) to LaSalle County. The funds are to be used to conduct exercises and attend training and meetings as requested by the IEMA. Aug. 12 Lostant’s Salina Breckenridge, 10, celebrates the 17 blue ribbons she won at the recent Marshall-Putnam 4-H Fair. State Senator Sue Rezin introduces a resolution to name the new Route 89 bridge The Illinois Valley Veterans Memorial Bridge. Aug. 19 Work begins in Tonica to repair Cherry Street and 19th Road. The village board also discusses the need to repair the village tennis courts. The LaSalle County Health Department confirms a crow has tested positive for the West Nile Virus. It’s the first bird to test positive in the county for 2016. Aug. 26 The Tonica School Board recognizes its new principal, Chuck Schneider. The Tonica School Board also began to move forward on its need to have asbestos removed from its boiler. Superintendent James Whitmore said the removal is expected to cost between $6,000 and $8,000.
Serving the Illinois Valley with Quality Building Material Since 1848
Replace that old unit with an energy efficient Goodman furnace!
815-882-2111 815-875-2540
June 17 The Illinois Department of Public Health announced the first human case of West Nile Virus in Illinois for 2016. The Lostant Village Board discussed limiting the amount of water that could be purchased by out-of-towners so village water supplies wouldn’t be strained. June 24 Work is completed on Tonica’s new lift station and the village moves forward on issues at the sewer plant. The Economic Development Corporation of North Central Illinois (EDCNCI) hires Ivan Baker as the CEO of the new organization. Baker has more than 30 years experience in economic development, management, marketing and consulting. July 1 Lostant Superintendent Sandra Malahy announces to the school board that they have enough money to stay open despite funding problems caused by the state’s financial crisis. The Lostant School Board proposes a new crisis safety plan that has been researched by Malahy. SafePlans is a program which would allow an easily accessible map of the school to display points of interest for emergency responders and allow for more comprehensive communication. July 8 The Tonica School Board hears complaints from community members unhappy about cuts to school programs and
the financial problems the school district continues to face. The U of I Extension installs pest traps in fields near IVCC to study the spread of invasive species. July 15 Springfield passes a last-minute stopgap budget, but social service providers such as the Putnam County Community Center and the Bridges Senior Center continue to struggle to serve the community with less than expected funding. Plans fall through for a business annexation which would benefit Lostant. Village board members discuss how lost revenue from gambling machines could have been used to help with flooding issues in the village and also allow for other repairs to be done without taking on debt. July 22 Tonica Village Board members advised residents to lock their doors after a series of breakins. Students from Bureau, Putnam and LaSalle counties take part in Carus’ weeklong 15th annual Summer Science Camp at Peru Catholic School. The Tonica Village Board considers installing security cameras at various locations throughout the village. July 29 The Tonica Parent-Teacher Committee (PTC) reaches out to the school administration in an attempt to foster better relations. Sarah Patyk, president of the PTC, said there was less connection between the PTC and the school than there had been in the past and
815-223-1742 www.mazelumber.com
SM-PR2651801-0127
4 Perspective
4 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 13, 2017
The Editorial Page The Tonica News Sam R Fisher
Terri Simon
Publisher
Editor
Tilikum is dead, but his story lives on As I sit down to write this column, news is flooding in about the death of Tilikum, SeaWorld’s most notorious killer whale. The cause of death is yet to be released. But it is known that Tilikum was being treated for a comGoldie Rapp plicated bacterial lung infection. COMMENTARY An announcement sent out by SeaWorld stated Tilikum died surrounded by trainers, care staff and veterinarians. His estimated age was 36 years old. Social media has exploded with the news, and the overall mood over Tilikum’s death seems to be glum relief. As a whale who was separated from his family in 1983 and since been held in captivity at SeaWorld — it’s somewhat a comfort knowing he no longer swims in confinement and performs tricks for Florida tourists. This is not the first time this orca has made headlines. Many still remember the tragic news in February 2010, when Tilikum killed his longtime trainer, Dawn Brancheau. It marked the third human death Tilikum was involved in since being held captive. Brancheau had just finished with a Dine with Shamu routine at SeaWorld Orlando and was lying next to Tilikum on a slide-out in the pool with her face close to his before he pulled her into the water, and she drowned. There were about a dozen witnesses. Some claimed they had saw Tilikum pull Brancheau in by her arm, while others declared he had pulled her ponytail. Following the catastrophic death, SeaWorld struggled to come up with an explanation behind Tilikum’s actions. It had to be a good one because Brancheau was their poster girl for SeaWorld — a trainer who had worked around orcas for 15 years. Their initial explanation was that she slipped and fell into the pool. But when witnesses cried that wasn’t what they saw, SeaWorld came back with an alternative report that Tilikum had grabbed Brancheau’s ponytail and pulled her into the pool. This theory didn’t settle well with some. Particularly documentary filmmaker Gabriela Cowperthwaite, who three years later released her controversial film, “Blackfish.” Her story centered around Tilikum, who was brought to SeaWorld and shaped into a performer for demanding audiences. The film pushed the idea that Brancheau’s death came as a consequence of keeping orcas in captivity. It highlighted aggression shown by killer whales when they are kept in confinement or are in a state of stress from being separated from their families. “Blackfish” was well received by the general public. It earned over $2 million at the box office and was nominated for a BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) Award. Of course, SeaWorld fired back at the film and argued points presented in its story. About a year after “Blackfish” was released, the family and foundation of Brancheau also came out and said they did not believe the documentary accurately reflected her experiences. Despite this back lash, the film brought awareness to the treatment of orcas living in captivity and allowed us to question these ethics. Just months after the film was released, SeaWorld’s visiting numbers dipped. And it wasn’t too soon later their profits followed the same trend. With this new reality in the laps of SeaWorld bigwigs, they made the ultimate decision last year to stop breeding orca whales in captivity. With 23 orcas still in its U.S. parks, SeaWorld plans to renovate its pools to resemble more habitual settings for the whales. It will also do away with its circus-like shows and offer natural whale experiences for its audiences. Though Tilikum lived his life, for the most part, in isolation, his story has allowed meaningful change for the future of not just whales, but all captive wild animals. Even in death he will serve as a reminder why undomesticated animals should be explored in their habitats, rather than confined spaces. Shaw Media Staff Writer Goldie Rapp can be reached at grapp@bcrnews.com.
Observations from The Field of Dreams Recently teacher, historian, writer and museum director Ron Bluemer gave a slide program at the Granville Library on the Cherry coal mine fire. Bluemer started his program by saying the coal mine vein that runs under Granville and Mark is the same coal vein that runs all the way to West Kentucky, the same vein that ran under the village of Cherry. On his slides, he showed pictures of the Cherry mine, including the miner’s houses, stores, the mine buildings before the fire. He also showed pictures of the mine shafts and timbers that held the shaft up. The mules that pulled the coal carts lived down in the mine because if they brought them up into the daylight, they were blinded by the light. Boys who were 14 years old took care of the mules down there. They had lied about their ages saying they were 17 or 18 years old because their family needed the money. The coal mine cart weighed 500 pounds. The fire started when the hay for the mules was brought down into the mine, and a boy pushed hay under a torch. The word went out to abandon the mine, and some miners got out. There were two shafts that went down into the mine. One was used to force air down the shaft by a big fan. The other shaft had a stair for the miners to walk down into the mine and also to walk out. Cages were dropped and they brought up some miners. These same cages had brought the coal carts up. The boy that caused the fire survived. The miners on top of the ground thought they could snuff out the fire by shutting down the fan, and then reversing it. That made the fire worse. This made the fire go up the other
Darrell Alleman COMMENTARY shaft that was the escape shaft and burnt the stair casing. That left no way out. The miners were totally trapped then. The people on top then decided to send down a bucket with a hoist. A Dr. Halm burned his hands going down the shaft several times bringing miners up. The Cherry Fire Department back in those days had a hand pumper type, but could not get enough water on the fire. The Ladd Fire Department came to help, but they had the same meager equipment as the Cherry firemen. Sirens went off in Cherry and all the area villages. People came by the hundreds, then by the thousands. They came by horseback, carriages and by the railroad, pouring into the town of Cherry. The trains brought people, but they also brought coffins. My dad, Walter Alleman, told me he was 10 years old when the news reached Tonica. He said just about everyone in Tonica, including him, took the train to Cherry with the idea they could help somehow. At the mine, they took boards and put them over the shafts and put sand over the boards to try and smother the fire. Nurses and food trains came from the Chicago Fire Department and their big pumper. It got to Cherry in 90 minutes. The National Guard came. The mayor closed all the taverns in Cherry.
On Nov. 20, they found that there were 21 survivors down in a shaft. There was one there that did not make it. They were buried for eight days. They had eaten their shoes and belts, anything leather. There were two churches in Cherry, a Protestant and a Catholic one. There were several funerals a day for weeks. The coal company owned their homes, and they owned the stores also. There is only one building left on the coal mine land -- the wash house. Everything was sealed up with concrete. As Ron finished his program, he passed around to everyone a small piece of coal to look at and hold. Thanks, Ron, for a great program. Darrell Alleman can be reached at news@putnamcountyrecord.com.
Tonica News photo/Darrell Alleman
Historian Ron Bluemer of Granville holds a carbide lamp he is showing to the audience at the Granville Library where he recently showed a slideshow on the Cherry Mine fire of 1909.
Why a budget won’t fix Illinois Did you feel it? As 2016 expired at midnight Dec. 31, so too did Illinois’ stopgap budget. That six-month spending plan pushed our state, already the least creditworthy in the nation, further into debt and decay. But its end looked more like the Y2K bug than a fiscal cliff – nothing really happened. That’s because, even as Illinoisans constantly hear calls to “just pass a budget already,” Illinois already has something of a budget. And it’s not a good one. It’s true that Illinois does not currently enjoy a traditional budget. The General Assembly hasn’t passed a spending plan that Gov. Bruce Rauner signed. And odds are slim that politicians will agree to a full-year budget in the final legislative session of the 99th General Assembly. But state government is still paying out at a breakneck pace through a mishmash of autopilot spending, court orders and consent decrees. In fact, state government is set to spend a record amount of taxpayer money in Fiscal Year 2017: Nearly $40 billion. That’s a new high for Illinois, and nearly 8 percent more than when the temporary income-tax hike was in full swing, according to the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability. And yet, Illinoisans are still hearing stories of suffering tied to the lack of a formal, full-year budget. Low-income students at public colleges and universities are uncertain about the status of the Monetary Award Program, which helps with the tuition costs necessary to invest in their futures. And some social service providers that aren’t funded by court order are barely scraping by. State spending is breaking records, so one would think Illinois could help these residents in need. But it’s not. How can this be? Look to the state’s priorities for an answer.
There is plenty of funding to go around. There is more than enough spending growth. And Illinoisans have paid their fair share into the system. But the state’s spending priorities are out of whack. Here are some key state spending categories and the percent change in each from 2000 to 2015. Note that total state revenues over this time increased a healthy 57 percent: • Spending on culture and the environment decreased 59 percent. • Spending on higher education decreased 8 percent, excluding pensions. • Spending on human services increased 10 percent. • Spending on public safety increased 12 percent. • Spending on K-12 education increased 35 percent, excluding pensions. • Spending on Medicaid increased 141 percent. • Spending on state-employee insurance increased 166 percent. • Spending on state-employee pension benefits increased 586 percent. Some of these things are not like the others. Pension costs alone now consume a quarter of the state budget, suffocating spending on core services such as higher education, human services and public safety. What residents are witnessing now with human services is not a new phenomenon. Even when Illinois had full-year budgets and one-party rule, social service providers still got stiffed. In 2009, an Urban Institute study ranked Illinois worst in the nation in paying its nonprofit vendors on a timely basis. Why? Priorities. The current fight over higher education funding is another perfect case study. College was once affordable in Illinois. But Illinois’ public colleges and universities hiked tuition between 74
and 112 percent over the last decade. Now, college is too often out of reach for many students without them taking on debt and receiving help from the government. This jeopardizes the future of our state, as young Illinoisans seek opportunity elsewhere. The Land of Lincoln is losing more millennial taxpayers on net than all other states except New York, according to data from the Internal Revenue Service, taking a net loss of more than 80,000 millennial taxpayers during the four tax years between 2011 and 2015. “Just pass a budget already,” is a common response to this problem. But Illinoisans must first think about the state’s priorities. Students have received the short end of the stick in this state, budget or not. For every dollar the state puts toward higher education, half goes to pension costs. Illinois’ system of higher learning is no longer a ladder up to the middle class for students. It is retirement program for those it employs. But surely that rise in tuition dollars went to ensuring access and affordability. Let’s look at the numbers. Between 2004 and 2010, student and faculty populations in Illinois grew less than 3 percent. The number of university administrators grew by more than 30 percent. How’s that for access? A full-year budget without major reforms simply serves to set warped priorities in stone. Before relenting to appeals for any budget at all, Illinoisans would be wise to consider what’s been done before, and why unwavering calls for change are so necessary. Austin Berg is a writer for the Illinois Policy Institute. He wrote this column for the Illinois News Network, a project of the Institute. Berg can be reached at aberg@illinoispolicy.org ]aberg@illinoispolicy.org.
5 Life
Friday, January 13, 2017 • The Tonica News • 5
Community
December Students of the Month recognized
29th annual IVCH Foundation Ball planned PERU — The Illinois Valley Community Hospital Foundation’s 29th annual benefit ball is set for Saturday, Jan. 21, at Celebrations 150 in LaSalle. The event, which is the Foundation’s principal fundraiser, begins with cocktails at 6 p.m. and includes a grand buffet dinner (prime rib, ham and fish), dancing to In Style Entertainment and the Chuck Cunningham Band,
and the opportunity to win prizes by playing various games of chance. Reservations are $47.50 per person and can be made by calling Jheri Emmerling, Foundation secretary, at 815-780-4642 or by registering and making payment online at www.ivch.org. Elaine Buckman, vice president of the IVCH Foundation board of directors, chairs the committee that plans the ball. Photo contributed
Lostant Grade School has announced its December Students of the Month. They are kindergartner Hayleigh Staggs, fifth-grader Gretchen Logdson and sixth-grader Lucas Wiesbrock. They were chosen for their outstanding effort, respect and responsibilities during the month. They will be treated to a special lunch from Dave’s Lost Ant.
Contestants wanted for Rock Star competition
IVCH Auxiliary funds $16,000 in hospital purchases
vocalist who is chosen by the audience as the “Fan Favorite.” Each week, the contestants with the best scores will advance and have to perform two songs, each with a certain theme. Registration is free. Contestants must be 21 years old to enter. Rules, details and registration forms are available online at www.993WAJK. com. Space is limited to the first 15 contestants to register. Rock Star is co-sponsored by Starved Rock Lodge, WAJK, WOLF, Euclid Beverage and Miller/Coors.
PERU — Parents of babies born at Illinois Valley Community Hospital in 2017 will be getting calendars to help them record the milestones of their newborns’ first year thanks to a gift from the IVCH Auxiliary. The “Baby’s First Year Calendars” were funded with part of a $16,225 grant from the auxiliary that also paid for a new GI scope for the IVCH endoscopy lab, a new elliptical machine for the pulmonary rehabilitation unit and a new television for the emergency department waiting room. The IVCH Auxiliary raises funds to help the hospital through monthly bake sales, annual book, plant, craft and vendor sales and other fundraisers. The auxiliary-staffed
Woodcrafters meeting PRINCETON — Woodcrafters Unlimited will meet Thursday, Jan. 19, at the Bureau County Senior Center, located in the Clark House, 16 W. Marion St. in Princeton. Show and tell will start at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting will begin at 7 p.m. Dues are $15 a year and can be paid at the meeting.
Sieg Tire & Tube Repair Shop
Photo contributed
Pictured with the calendars in the IVCH obstetrics unit are Jan Vogelgesang (from left), auxiliary president; Allison Rooney, Auxiliary vice president; OB nurse Britnae Lewis; Barb Sarver, Auxiliary treasurer; OB unit clerk Traci Aimone; and OB nurse Mary Armata. hospital gift shop also contributes to the group’s treasury. In addition to
Open 7 days/week 8-5pm
815-878-7367
Buy 4 new tires & Get a FREE Tire Rotation
Where We Always Keep You
Rollin!
With every Tire Repair, receive a FREE pocket knife!
SM-PR2651800-0224
Servicing & Repairing all Makes & Models Antique Tractors Repair Small Implement Tires -up to 42” tires
Now accepting all major credit cards!
COLD has it’s place... outside. Town and Country Services
$20 OFF
Any Service Call
Plumbing
$100 OFF Coupon required. One coupon per person. Not valid with other offers. Expires 2-28-2017
Electrical
(815) 872-2200
towncountryservices.com
and leave a message. or visit
www.herrinsuranceassistance.com at Al Cioni Ford!
There’s No Baloney At Al Cioni!
Heating System Install
Heating
Please Call Elisa Herr at 309-512-9949
New Year Sale
Town and Country Services
Coupon required. One coupon per person. Not valid with other offers. Expires2-28-2017
Open enrollment runs through January 31st
SM-PR2651765-0127
Owner/Operator
sors health career scholarships that are awarded annually.
Need Help with Health Insurance?
23 Hour Roadside Assistance Selling & Repairing all makes of tires Interstate Battery Sales 112 S. St. Paul St. Basic Oil Change- Starting @ $37.50 Mounting, Balancing, (up to 5 quarts) Mark, IL 61340 Rotating, Patches, Plugs
Johnny Sieg
helping the hospital purchase needed equipment, the auxiliary also spon-
Keep Warm&. Call Town ices! Country Serv
2016 Ford Fusion-white 2015 Chevy Malibu-tan 2014 Ford Fusion-sunset 2014 Ford Focus-silver 2013 Ford Fusion-gray (loaded) 2012 Ford Taurus-white 2012 Ford Fusion-blue 2012 Ford Fusion-black (loaded) 2007 Mercury Montego
30,000 miles 30,000 miles 37,000 miles 37,000 miles 28,000 miles 80,000 miles 64,000 miles 64,000 miles 95,000 miles
$17,900.00 $15,400.00 $14,700.00 $11,800.00 $14,900.00 $10,700.00 $9,500.00 $10,400.00 $6,500.00
AL CIONI
2017 Ford Shelby GT350 is here in stock! SM-PR2651906-0113
UTICA — The contestant search is on for Rock Star 2017. This annual vocal competition, now in its 11th year, will take place in the main dining room of Starved Rock Lodge on four consecutive Thursdays, beginning at 7 p.m. Opening night is Feb. 16 and the finals will be on March 9. The winner will be given a cash prize of $500. Singers who enter will be asked to perform the song of their choice, on the first night, before a panel of judges. A weekly prize of $100 will be given to the
Granville • 815-339-2511 • www.alcioniford.com
6 Life/Class
6 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 13, 2017
Menus Lostant Grade School
River Valley Players announces upcoming auditions HENRY — River Valley Players will hold auditions for “Violet the Musical” at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, and 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5, at St. John’s Community Center, 1301 Second St. in Henry. Call backs will be announced at a later date. The production company includes Samantha Farb, director/ music director; Christine Gaspardo, producer; and Mary Cornwall, pianist. In general six males and five females will be cast — adult actors with flexible cast options (16 plus) and one younger female for Violet. Those auditioning should come prepared to sing 32 bars of a musi-
cal theatre song. An accompanist will be provided. Please note the vocal range of the characters (it is suggested to sing a song in the range that best matches the role you are auditioning for.) For more information, call Samantha Farb at 815-503-3435. “Violet” takes place in 1964, in the Deep South during the early days of the Civil Rights Movement. One of the most acclaimed off Broadway shows of the ‘90s, “Violet,” astounded critics and audiences with its powerful story, its energetic toe-tapping gospel, rock, country, and rhythm and blues score by
Jeanine Tesori, and its well-crafted book and lyrics by Brian Crawley. It features a strong ensemble cast with bravura rules for the two leads. The show follows the growth and enlightenment of a young woman scarred by an accident during her early teens. She embarks on a journey by bus, seeking a savvy TV evangelist she hopes can cure her. She travels from North Carolina to Oklahoma. Along the way, she meets a young black soldier who teaches her about beauty, love and courage, and what it means to be an outsider. Performance dates will be April 22-23 and 28-30.
St. Margaret’s Hospital welcome first baby of 2017
Tonica Grade School
St. Margaret’s Hospital welcomed its first baby of 2017. Weighing 8 pounds, 13 ounces and measuring 21 inches in length, Maddux Joseph Hamer was welcomed into this world at 12:57 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 1. He is the son of Teresa Gleason and Jay Hamer of Tiskilwa and joins siblings Taylor, Bailey, Garrett and Travis. The new arrival was delivered by board certified OB/ GYN physician Dr. Norah Toraason.
Photo contributed
Genealogy guild will meet on Jan. 21 OTTAWA — The LaSalle County Genealogy Guild will meet at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, at the Guild Library, 115 W. Glover in Ottawa. Heinz Suppan will be the guest
speaker for this month. He lived for nine years in Germany as a military translator and teacher of a secondary school in Hanover in Lower Saxony. He taught German and some history
classes at Marquette High School. He became interested in events in and around the Ottawa area. He did much research and will be speaking about Jim Grey, runaway slave.
Blood drive set for Jan. 19 at IVCC OGLESBY — Illinois Valley Community College and Illini Valley Association of Realtors will host an American Red Cross blood drive from 9
a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, in the IVCC gym in. Donors should bring either a photo ID, blood donor card or
Breakfast Jan. 16 — Honeybun, yogurt, cereal, fruit and juice. Jan. 17 — Muffin, yogurt, cereal, fruit and juice. Jan. 18 — Danish, yogurt, cereal, fruit and juice. Jan. 19 — Pancakes, sausage and syrup, yogurt, cereal, fruit and juice. Jan. 20 — Peanut butter and jelly, yogurt, cereal, fruit and juice. Lunch Jan. 16 — Cheeseburger macaroni, peas, applesauce, milk. Jan. 17 — Chicken noodle soup, ham and cheese sandwich, peaches, milk. Jan. 18 — Nachos and cheese, carrots, pears, milk. Jan. 19 — Cheese pizza, green beans, fruit cocktail, milk. Jan. 20 — Sloppy joe on bun, chips, mixed vegetables, apricots, milk.
two other forms of ID. To make an appointment, call Steve Swett at 815224-0232 or visit redcrossblood.org/ RapidPass.
Breakfast Jan. 16 — No school. Jan. 17 — Mini pancakes and syrup or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk. Jan. 18 — Scrambled eggs or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk. Jan. 19 — Breakfast pizza or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk. Jan. 20 — Glazed doughnut or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk. Lunch Jan. 16 — No school. Jan. 17 — Spaghetti, spaghetti sauce, Romaine lettuce, fruit side kick, garlic bread, milk. Jan. 18 — Turkey burger, cheese slice, bun, french fries, fruit, gelatin and Cool Whip, milk. Jan. 19 — Chicken strips, carrots, fresh fruit, milk. Jan. 20 — Hot dog, bun, baked beans, applesauce, cookie, milk.
Putnam County Community Center Jan. 16 — Center closed. Jan. 17 — Baked spaghetti, tossed salad with toppings, pineapple chunks, bread and butter, dessert. Jan. 18 — Chicken rice casserole, California blend vegetables, salad with toppings, tropical fruit. Jan. 19 — Sub sandwich, potato soup with crackers, yogurt with fruit, dessert. Jan. 20 — Fish square on bun with tartar sauce, french fries, green beans, apple. Bread, butter, fruit juice and 2% milk are available with meals. 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. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m.
––––––––––––––– Classifieds ––––––––––––– General Terms and Policies
-100Announcements
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.
108 • Lost & Found
CLASSIFIED LINE AD & LEGAL DEADLINES: • Friday Paper deadline Friday before by 3pm We Accept Call 815-875-4461 classified@bcrnews.com HARD TO FIND THAT RIGHT PERSON FOR THAT JOB OPENING? The Bureau County Republican Classified can reach just the right person you are looking for to fill that job opening. Call 815875-4461
LOST DOG: female, young, blac,k white and brown, short haired. Tail curls up on back. Name is Georgia. Very friendly. Lost in Putnam, IL. Call 309-238-7820 or 815-437-2320
- 200 Employment 228 • Help Wanted TONICA COMMUNITY CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT 79 is seeking evening, part-time CUSTODIAL HELP. Qualified candidates should send a letter of interest, and resume to: Mr. Charles Schneider at: cschneider@ tonicagradeschool.org or 535 N 1981 Road, Tonica, IL 61370. Compensation follows the Collective Bargaining Agreement of the Tonica Association of Federated Teachers & Support Staff
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
- 400 Merchandise
450 • Under $1000
441 • Wanted to Buy
************ HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL?
Wanted to Buy: Old books and comic books. Call 815-481-4922
450 • Under $1000 26” boys bicycle, Schwinn 21 speed, $75; girls Schwinn, 26”, $45; girls 1949 Camaro bicycle, $80. 815-646-4321 Classical music & children record sets $3 each; 3 old floor lamps $25; brass fireplace andirons $75. 815-869-3054 Rollator walker with seat and basket, like new. $85. Call 815-303-8116 Shower chair, no back, very clean, $15; Cubs/Jim Beam soft cooler, $20; walker with wheels, $25. Call 815-224-2931 Two sections of scaffolding with cross braces $100; one plank $25. Call 630-408-0566
WANTING TO SELL YOUR CAR? Call 815-875-4461
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! Western 321501-1 hydraulic pump kit, $200; new 16' gloss black mens 21 speed trek bicycle, $225. Call 815-699-2641 Walnut end table with deep drawer, $20; rattan end table, $10; brass lamp, $15. Call 815-879-8001 Pfaff sewing machine. Excellent. $100. Call 815-875-3538
- 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
Buy It! Sell It! See It Right Here! The Tonica News
Classifieds 815-875-4461
7 Class
Friday, January 13, 2017 • The Tonica News • 7
E-mail items for sale to: classified@bcrnews.com
Business Directory Marketplace
Sieg Tire & u e R
NEED TO REMODEL YOUR OLD TUB?
One day installation
815-875-2540 | 815-882-2111
404 W. Main St., McNabb, IL | www.grassersplumbingheating.com
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 & Sundayss
GLYNN’S DEMOLITION DEMOLITION & EXCAVATING
815-878-7367 e e l
Free Estimates Fully Insured 9286 East Power Plant Rd. Hennepin, IL 61327 Fax 815-925-7475 gngdemolition@yahoo.com
Auto Body Specialists Truck Toppers & Accessories
“You bend ‘em, we mend ‘em” Mike Supan Jr. ∙ Linda Supan ∙ Michele Straughn
325 North 25th Rd, Route 251 South of Peru
815-224-1506
EMERGENCY: 815-252-0032
Since 1919
Plumbing • Heating • Electrical
s
pY u
Rollin!
Mounting, Balancing, Rotating, Patches, Plugs and all tire repairs plus Small Implement Farm Tires
Now Offering Higher Speeds! 815-442-9901 • www.tonicacom.net
in Concrete, Plumbing, Electric & Carpentry No Job too Small “For A Peach of A Deal”
Call Now at 815-437-9026 • 630-569-0734 Doing business as Peach Construction Co. Since 1981
See Castles Built at facebook.com/Peach1981
18 & 89 AUTO
Fully Insured
815-869-3152 14049 IL HWY 18 MAGNOLIA, IL M-F 8:30-6 SAT 8-4
REPAIR
• FULL MECHANICAL REPAIR
• TUNE UPS
• FAIR & FLEXIBLE RATES
• BRAKES
• NEW & USED TIRES
• COOLANT FLUSH
Quality Pre-Owned Vehicles
FOLEY MOTORS
Full Service Store
Inc.
PASSINI PLUMBING & HEATING David Passini
Sales & Service
Rt. 29, Henry, IL 309-364-4711 www.foleymotorsinc.com
Licensed-Bonded-Insured 116 South 2nd St. Standard, IL 61363
red CArpet ServiCe
e
Our Customers
!
For the World’s Best People
Al Cioni Ford inC.
504 S. McCoy Granville, IL 815-339-2511
No baloney with Al Cioni! • Business Cards • Envelopes • Booklets • Forms • Pamphlets • Letterheads For all your printing solutions call
875-4461
Always FREE Estimates
24 Hrs. Service • 815-442-3415
Full Service Remodeling Specialists
Now accepting all major credit cards!
Tonica Telephone Co. Toncom Long Distance
Towing Available
Raejean Glynn, Owner Terry Glynn, Owner
Cars, Trucks, Trailer, Motorcycles, ATVs, & Lawn Mowers also Bicycles
Owner/Operator SM-PR265160 08-1025
PLUMBING & HEATING, INC.
PEACH CONSTRUCTION CO.
Interstate Battery Sales
Johnny Sieg
Experienced installers
815-878-8948
Open 7 days/week 8-5pm
112 S. St. Paul St. Mark, IL 61340
We install and service walk-in tubs and regular tubs. Financing available
air Shop
Selling & Repairing all makes of tires
800 Ace Road PO Box 340 Princeton, IL 61356 815-875-4461 fax 815-875-1235
,
m
Voted
#
!
1
y
t
s
y t
o e o t
815-339-4108 815-481-2639
,
Home www.proremodeling.org Improvement 815-224-3371 Specialist!
JODY TALIANI Owner
202 W Harper Ave
Mon-Fri 8AM - 5PM M
PO Box 326
ROUTE
PH:
71
Granville, IL 61326 815-339-9181 FAX: 815-399-9182
AUTO BODY
route71autobody@frontier.com
To add your lisTing To This page conTacT ashley aT (815) 875-4461, exT. 6345
8 Adv
8 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 13, 2017
Stay Save Local. Local. Looking for fun in the Illinois Valley & save some money too?
Save 50% on vouchers from local restaurants, stores & services with...
!
$15 for $7.50 $10 for $5
$20 for $10
$10 for $5
$20 for $10
Illinois Valley
B GDEALS Go to putnamcountyrecord.com & tonicanews.com and save!