TON-01-24-2014

1 Front Volume 140 No. 48

Friday, January 24, 2014

The Tonica News

Single Copy Cost 50¢

A current of water issues

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

TONICA – Water, water, everywhere – and that was part of the problem at the Tonica Village Board meeting on Jan. 20. The extreme cold from the recent

Chain reaction on I-39 Winter storm creates havoc for drivers

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

TONICA — Winter storm conditions contributed to a multiple-vehicle accident on Interstate 39 on the Tonica exit around 11 a.m. on Jan. 18. The chain-reaction crash sent two people to Illinois Valley Community Hospital where they were listed in serious condition.

The Tonica Volunteer Fire Department responded with an ambulance and two rescue vehicles to find several vehicles in the northbound and southbound ditches and the center median. While rescue personnel worked to clean up the site, more vehicles were involved in accidents to the south of the original pile-up.

More than a dozen vehicles were involved in the pile-up. Illinois State Police and Department of Conservation Police assisted in the incident, and several tow trucks were called to remove the vehicles that either struck another vehicle or became disabled in the deep snow off of the highway. Oglesby ambulance also responded to the scene.

Many of the victims who were not injured were transported to the Tonica Fire Station for food and shelter until they could arrange for transportation. TVFD official Rick Turri said approximately 20 people were involved in the accident.

polar vortex wreaked havoc with the village’s water system.

A leak in the water tower sparked a boil order over the course of several days when thousands of gallons spilled from the container over the course of a cou-

ple days. Tonica Public Works Supervisor Marc Lemrise said when he discovered it, water was gushing out from the water tower door. He said although there was never an issue with the water quality, he placed the boil order as an

extra precaution.

Several people became concerned when social media said the water was too dangerous for any use, but Tonica Village Engineer Jack Kusek pointed out that was never the case.

“People need to real-

The water tower was not the last of the village’s water worries.

“Since the last time we met, we had four water main breaks,” Lemrise said. “They all just snapped. Each

See Water Page 2

‘Wood’en it be nice!

Bureau County Woodcarvers stretch county lines

By Dixie Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

PRINCETON — A creative club has deep roots in the Bureau, Putnam and LaSalle county communities. The Bureau County Woodcarvers meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Bureau County Senior Center in Princeton.

Each meeting starts off with a show and tell at 6:30 p.m. where members bring projects to show to other members in the group. At 7 p.m., the regular meeting commences. Currently the membership stands at 17; two women and 15 men make up the group.

Each member of the group brings a unique set of skills which combines for the whole in a very positive way. Different members of the group favor different tools. They work not only in wood, but some in plastic as well. Some members make items on a smaller scale, while others work full scale. Some do both. Some carve. Some do not.

They all have learned different types of wood can produce unique effects in their art.

The group tease other members with the familiarity of a family who have known each other for a long time. Individuals are not afraid to share their trade secrets to help other members of the group. Some of these ideas will spur new ideas or projects.

Gary Moreland of Princeton uses his skills especially at Christmas time. Moreland will make more than 100 Christmas gifts, often in the form of ornaments to give to friends and family who visit during the holiday season. Others in the group do the same.

Some members of the group enjoy their craft so much they go to school to learn more. Har-

Tonica News photo/Dixie Schroeder

Bob Folty of Tonica (standing) demonstrates one of his projects at the meeting of the Bureau County Woodcarvers. Gordon Carls of Tonica (left) is also pictured. old Steele of Dover attended a very prestigious school, Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts run by nationwide expert Dick Sing.

“I made a copy of a 1776 Chippendale Chair,” Steele

said. “He (Sing) was also a math teacher, and he created from a mathematical equation perspective.”

The group gives back to the community in many ways.

Often as a group or as indi-

Inside

Vol. 140 No. 48 One Section - 8 Pages

‘It’s how we do business’ See Page 3 © The Tonica News

ize that Marc is welltrained in water management. If there is any danger, he will notify the public,” Kusek said.

“Facebook can be a useful tool for getting the word out, but it’s not always reliable for news.”

Getting social See Page 4

viduals, they have been asked to teach and pass along their skills. Another project the group does is making Braille boxes and giving them away.

See Woodcarvers Page 4

2 Local 2 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 24, 2014

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Lostant students participate in school spelling bee

By Tonica News Staff news@tonicanews.com

LOSTANT – The Lostant Grade School hosted its annual spelling bee on Jan. 14. Twenty-four sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students participated in the event. Angela Wenskunas was organizer of the spelling bee.

“All the students had a school spelling bee list, which some of those words actually appeared on the spelling list,” Wenskunas said. “They have a grade level and then a school spelling bee list.”

Scripps National Spelling Bee sponsors this nationwide contest for elementary students. Scripps generates lists that educators can use to create their own

Tonica News photo/Ken Schroeder

Pronouncer Amy Olson gives a spelling bee word to Alan Bruner. list. Before winter break all students who were participating in the event were given their list to study.

Many of the Lostant Grade

School teachers then held practice spelling bees before the actual date of the contest.

In a spelling bee format,

the student repeats the word given to him by a moderator or reader. He or she can then ask for a definition of the word as

well as asking for it to be used in a sentence. After he or she spells the word, it is proper form for them to say the word again, signifying they are finished spelling. Once a letter is spoken, the student may not change his/her mind.

The winner of the spelling bee this year was Hunter Witzman, who will go on to compete at the LaSalle County spelling bee held at 9 a.m. Feb. 15 at the Ottawa Township High School Auditorium. Ben Tran was the runner up this year and will stand in for Witzman if he is unable to attend the county spelling bee. Both students received certificates at the quarterly awards ceremony held at Lostant School on Jan. 17.

TGS considers buses and fuel

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

TONICA — Buses and fuel were on the agenda at the Tonica Grade School Board meeting on Jan. 15.

The board received an offer from the Thomas Built Buses Co. for new buses. The offer was for two, 65-passenger school buses for $12,100. The buses would be slightly stripped down from the ones received last year.

Board President Jeremy

Water From Page 1 of them was caused by ground movement from the cold and snow.”

Lemrise also said an air vent in the sewer plant shut down, which caused

Hillyer said one of the buses might be used as a back-up bus in case of breakdown.

The board decided to discuss the issue with the transportation coordinator on the viability of the buses.

The school will be relying on Northern Partners Cooperative for fuel for the remaining school year.

Northern Partners was one of three companies who put in bids for furnishing fuel for the school. Price

and a six-month contract locking the rate in at $3.46 a gallon were the deciding factors.

The board also heard a presentation from Anna Lovern from the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB). The school currently subscribes to the association’s Policy Reference Education Subscription Service (PRESS) which allows the board to establish board policy. The PRESS subscription gives board members sample policies

with accompanying information which help them focus on their leadership role while complying with state and federal laws.

The association is offering a new program to schools which would pare down the files to only current legislation in addition to an online discussion board from board members to keep up with new legislation and board policies. PRESS Plus is fully maintained by the IASB and kept up-to-date on all suggested policies

and legislation. It offers a six-month no-obligation trial membership.

The board will look into the cost and beneficial aspects before making a decision.

In other action, the board: • Approved the use of the gym by the local Boy Scout Webelos for some basketball practice and skill training.

• Approved usage of the facility by John Freeman for his softball team.

the system to freeze up for several hours. No possible health problems or lasting damage came from the problem.

The board also discussed problems with the current water billing system, specifically making sure tenants of

rented properties can’t escape from an overdue unpaid water bill. An ordinance on the books already requires landlords to inform the village water department when a new tenant moves in, but Tonica Village President Kevin Sluder said

he would be surprised if there is a 15 percent compliance rate. The board is looking into making the landlords responsible for the payment of water bills and letting them handle collection of fees from their renters.

In other action, the

board: • Was informed the Village Inn property will be split into two subdivisions, with someone already showing interest in the northern section.

Each subdivision would consist of approximately four acres. To help facilitate the possibility of the property becoming productive again, the board voted to waive the requirement for a preliminary zoning board approval.

• Decided to approach the Illinois Department of Transportation concerning traffic lights for the intersection of Route 251 and Ray Richardson Road. The intersection has been the site of several accidents over the years. Tonica Village Police Chief Dave Woolford said it is the most accident-prone location in LaSalle County. IDOT has stated in the past there was not enough local traffic to justify any signal devices.

• Discussed hiring Matt Wiesbrock to perform mowing duties for the village. Wiesbrock presented a proposal to the board with his rates and his projected duties.

• Heard an update on the maintenance shed and sewer plant projects from Kusek.

• Approved two applicants for firefighters for the Tonica Volunteer Fire Department.

3 Obit/Records Friday, January 24, 2014 • The Tonica News • 3

Leonore home destroyed by fire LEONORE — A Leonore family suffered the total loss of their home after a fire on Jan. 15.

The Todd Dimmig family of 1224 N. 1909th Road owned a single-story, ranch style home which was fully engulfed when firefighters from Leonore, Grand Ridge and Tonica arrived around 6 p.m.,” said Leonore Fire Chief Don Miller. It was later found the fire appeared to have started in the kitchen, but the actual cause of the fire remains under investigation.

More than 8,000 gallons of water were pumped

from the fire trucks to help extinguish the fire. A salt truck from Vermilion Township was called to deliver salt, as firefighters also battled icing problems as the water was applied to the fire.

At 8:40 p.m. Tonica and Grand Ridge firefighters were released from the scene, while Leonore firefighters stayed until 10:30 p.m. On Jan. 16, insulation which had been piled up during the first fire rekindled, and the Leonore Fire Department was called back out to fully extinguish the second fire.

Tonica News photos/Dixie Schroeder

Michael Villarreal runs the automatic ravioli wrapping machine at Mareta Foods.

‘It’s how we do business’ Mareta Foods: The legacy continues

By Dixie Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

LEONORE — One of the area’s hidden treasures is Mareta Foods, a multi-generation family business located in Leonore. Mareta is known for its spinach, cheese and beef ravioli as well as its sauces, both spicy marinara and spaghetti.

Started in 1956 in the kitchen of Jennie and Peter Mareta, the business was purchased in 1994 by daughter, Martha, who now runs it with sons, Michael and Steve Villarreal. Martha’s third son, Joseph Villarreal, teaches welding at the Area Vocational Center in LaSalle The first 20 years, the business was mainly run by family. Martha said an older sister and her friends helped out.

“My sister had two friends who were twins.

They would come over every day, so my sister could go out to play,” Martha said. “There wasn’t much for kids to do back then, and pretty soon sales started to pick up as frozen food was just getting big at that time.”

The three girls as well as others in the community had work.

“There was a time when over 20 high school girls would come in,” she said. “It took a lot to hand wrap the ravioli and bag them.”

For the first 20 years, the ravioli were hand wrapped, but in 1975 the family purchased their first automated machines. There was a machine which

Martha Mareta stands in the sauce room where Mareta’s Foods makes their popular brands of sauce. made the dough and a machine which wrapped the ravioli. As the business began to sell more product, Jennie Mareta approached John McGrath of McGrath Fishery and asked him about possibly selling some of their product.

McGrath told her he would take 125 bags.

“My mother thought, ‘How on earth will we ever make 125 bags?’”

Martha said. “Being a very good Catholic, she even asked the priest if they could work on Sundays.”

The family business continued upon Martha Mareta’s purchase of it.

She was then joined by sons, Steve and Michael when they went federal, which means they could distribute their product beyond Illinois state lines.

Fresh ingredients are used in a big portion of the creation of the products Mareta Foods sells.

The family believes in quality and honesty in all they do, Martha said.

“I’m really glad I continued it, and my sons are just as persnickety, which is great,” she said. “We don’t vary the make up of the product because of the price of flour or the meat or the eggs. We even crack all our eggs fresh.”

Today there are three full-time and three

part-time employees at the main location in Leonore.

Michael and Steve have taken their mother’s philosophy and life lessons to heart as they have expanded into a fresh foods deli in LaSalle. Mareta Pasta and Deli is located at 148 Gooding St. The restaurant features fresh, homemade salads, subs and sandwiches.

“The only thing we buy is produce, deli meats and cheese; otherwise we make everything,” Michael Villarreal said. “We make the breads; we make the desserts, the cheesecake, cinnamon rolls, soups everything. It’s either made here at the deli or at Mareta Foods.”

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Mareta Pasta and Deli features Chicago-style Italian beef sandwiches, making the Italian beef up almost every day. They don’t deep fry anything. Pork tenderloins for sandwiches are large cuts of meat, hand pounded out before being cooked.

Sandwiches are amply portioned, and customers usually don’t finish them because they are so big. Food is served quickly.

“It’s fast, but it’s not fast food,” he said. “If there is an opportunity for an idea that works and we like what we are doing and having fun, and we are able to bring a good product to our customers, then we’re the manufacturer. There is nothing more stopping us from having more than one (business),” he said.

“Businesses come, and businesses go. Friendships come, and friendships go. But you have to remain true to yourself; It’s part of the way I was raised. It’s how we do business,” Martha said.

Tonica News photo/Dixie Schroeder

Harold Steele (standing) shows the group a holiday ornament he made. Gordon Carls of Tonica (left) admires his work.

Woodcarvers From Page 1 “We’ve been doing this since 1998 I think,” Dave Sawitoski of Princeton said. “We have made more than 2,000 of these units.

We have the 26 letters of the alphabet and numbers in the little case.”

Each unit is composed of finished wood tiles for each letter of the alphabet. Each alphabet block is designed so the user will know what is the top of the letter. Sawitoski explained the blocks can be made from scrap wood pieces.

Bob Folty of Tonica said it was a real group project.

“Individuals can take and make a whole set, or different people do differ-

ent segments of the set,” Folty said.

The group has affiliated themselves with the Hadley School for the Blind in Winnetka. The school distributes them not only all over the country, but also to poorer countries overseas. In 2001, they were recognized for their work.

“We won the Make a Difference Day nationwide,” Folty said. “We got a $2,000 cash prize that we donated back to the Hadley School for the Blind.”

The Bureau County Woodworkers will host a newcomers meeting on Feb. 20. Member John Damon will give a live demonstration of his skills with a scroll saw.

4 Biz Ag 4 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 24, 2014

Starved Rock Lodge creates social media team Lodge marks 75th anniversary in 2014

By Lyle Ganther news@tonicanews.com

UTICA — Starved Rock Lodge, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, now has a social media team.

“The reason we created this group is to expand (Starved Rock) Lodge and (Starved Rock State) Park presence on six social media channels,” said Kathy Casstevens, the lodge’s marketing director. “The best part about building the brand through the power of social media is that there is little or no cost to do this.”

Starved Rock Lodge currently maintains 10 Facebook pages with more than 24,000 people who like them, she added.

In the coming year, the team hopes to gain more shares and engagement by putting photos with all posts and having one team player in charge of key departments.

“So far, we’ve added six boards on Pinterest and have 14 followers,” added Casstevens. “This digital bulletin board is a great

Photo contributed

Some of the members of Starved Rock Lodge’s new social media team stand near the indoor pool.

Team members shown in the front row are Molly Ryan (left) and Jacki Pienta (right), and in the back row (left to right) are Ashley Kubiak (from left), David Jones, Pam Rowe, and Johnna Anderson. Not shown are Kathy Casstevens, Andrea Yeruski and Amber Edgcomb. place for us to showcase the great Starved Rock to people who have never been here before.”

The photo boards are themed weddings, Starved Rock fun, canyons, waterfalls and more. The lodge currently uses HootSuite to schedule posts ahead

of time. This also allows them to post to Twitter.

“We also set up an Instagram account for the lodge, and anyone who takes a great photo should put the hashtag #lovestarvedrock on it so it links with the other photos that have been posted,” explained

Casstevens. “YouTube videos made about Starved Rock continue to have people watch and share them. Social media team members maintain calendars of the posts they create to track response and effectiveness of the posts.”

The lodge still has three active websites as well as the six social media channels to maintain.

“We have hundreds of events and activities here, and we’re eager to share all of that with the people who want to learn about it,” says Casstevens. “We still use email, but social media is so much faster; and the more we do it, the easier it gets!”

Casstevens leads the social media team. Other team members, who are all employees of Starved Rock Lodge, are Jacki Pienta (operations manager); Pam Rowe (activities department); Andrea Yeruski (food and beverage manager); Ashley Kubiak (food and beverage supervisor); Molly Ryan (gift shop supervisor); Johnna Anderson (Cattails supervisor); Amber Edgcomb (sales department); and David Jones (food and beverage director).

Extension hosts beef seminar OTTAWA — University of Illinois Extension – Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall and Putnam Unit invites producers and others interested to attend the upcoming beef sire selection and management seminar from 4:45 to 8 p.m. Jan. 29 at Pitstick Pavilion near Ottawa.

University of Illinois Extension beef educator

Travis Meeter will talk on management and nutrition of herd bulls and give an update on the Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale. Other speakers will include: Doug Parrett, University of Illinois: Incorporating EPDs into bull selection and future use of EPDs in selection; Joe Dedrickson, DVM, Merial: Extending parasite con-

trol in your cattle herd; Kevin Glaubius, VitaFerm: Advantages of a breeding season-focused mineral program; Rod Shoenbine, Zoetis: Genetic testing opportunities for advancing selection of desired traits; Jerry Cassady, regional field representative, American Angus Association: New sire selection tools; and

Kevin Devore, ABS: Future trends in the beef industry.

Pre-registration is should be sent in by Jan. 24. Registration will be taken at the door as room allows.

The cost for the program is $15 which includes dinner and is payable at the door.

To register, call 217-4307030 or email wmeeter@ gmail.com

Amboy Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary acreage increased SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Audubon Society announced it increased the protected acreage of its Amboy Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary with a 30-acre addition.

Purchased by the Society in 2012, Amboy Marsh is a rare and fragile Northern Illinois ecosystem.

Located in southeastern Lee County, Amboy Marsh is now a 302-acre wetland complex interspersed with black oak sand savannas, sedge meadows and dry sand prairie. According to Illinois Natural Area Inventory data, Amboy Marsh has unique natural features that attract and host one of Illinois’ highest populations of nesting state-endangered Blanding’s turtles.

Blanding’s turtles are medium-sized, semiaquatic, freshwater turtles that inhabit wetlands in

parts of the upper Midwest, New York, New England and southern Canada. With comparable sea turtle and tortoise life history characteristics, they can live 70 years. Blanding’s turtles reach sexual maturity at more than 20 years of age and have low reproductive potential.

Acquisition, restoration and long-term stewardship grants were initially provided by Grand Victoria Foundation and the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation.

This recent purchase was funded through the Illinois Audubon Society’s land acquisition fund.

Amboy Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary opened to the public on Oct. 13, 2013, and features a 2.5 mile marked trail. The trail is easy to walk, and visitors will experience various habitats that offer

a diversity of plant and wildlife species. The Sanctuary is located at 1701 Mormon Road in Amboy and is open dawn to dusk.

Parking is available at the entrance to the Sanctuary.

The mission of the Illinois Audubon Society is to promote the perpetuation and appreciation of native plants and animals and the habitats that support them. The Illinois Audubon Society is an

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Obituary Rita Kae Janusick TONICA — Rita Kae Janusick, 71, of Tonica passed away Monday, Jan. 20, 2014.

Rita was an administrative assistant for the Tonica Schools for 22 years where her laughter and wisdom had a positive impact on all of the students. Mom was a beautiful, spirited woman who loved her dog, Aal-e. She was quick to smile, and enjoyed her service as an EMT, baking, collecting jewelry, and most of all, time spent with her children and grandchildren. Rita Rita Kae appreciated her past and enjoyed the Janusick present.

Surviving are five children, Vicki Kenyon, Butch (Lee Ann) Johnson, Bill (Michelle) Johnson, Eric (Melissa) Johnson and Jeff Johnson; 10 grandchildren, Jessica Kenyon, Dylan Kenyon, Emily Kenyon, Taylor Johnson, Logan Johnson, David Johnson, Joseph Johnson, Margaret Johnson, Jonny Johnson and Lauren Johnson; and two brothers, Duane Huss and Eugene Huss.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hap and Laura Elva Huss; and one brother, Gary Huss.

Mom, your spirit and love are missed so much, but will never be truly gone as each of us carry you in our heart and soul.

A reception will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Feb. 1 at the Tonica Methodist Church, 423 E. Wauponis St., Tonica. A dinner will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to any of the following organizations: Tonica Fire Department, 507 N. First St., Tonica, IL 61370; Tonica School Foundation, 535 N. 1981 St., Tonica, IL 61370; and Fallin Pines Critter Rescue, 23643 Christmas Cemetery Road, Christmas, FL 32709.

Extension plans regional seminar MENDOTA — The University of Illinois Extension-Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall and Putnam Unit will hold the 2014 Illinois Regional Conservation Cropping Seminar on Jan. 28 in Mendota.

This seminar is for producers, agribusinesses and others interested, along with Certified Crop Advisers needing CEU credits.

Local agricultural producers and resource experts will share information and insights on soil health improvements, cover crop success, and wise nutrient management. The new Conservation Cropping Seminars are an outgrowth of popular Tillage Seminars attended by producers, Ag industry representatives, certified crop advisers, and others.

“Our department is pleased to work with conservation partners to bring this series of seminars to three locations across the state,” Agriculture Director Bob Flider said. “I encourage producers to join other farmers and agribusiness pro-

fessionals in attending one of these meetings to learn more about adopting conservation systems on their own farms.”

“Managing Your Inputs for Healthy Soils” will run from 8:50 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 28 at the Mendota Civic Center in Mendota. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and a meet and greet time will also be available from 3:30 to 5 p.m. to meet and visit speakers, sponsors and attendees.

Pre-registration and payment is required

by Jan. 24. The fee to attend is $20, payable by check or credit card.

Register by Jan. 24 for meal planning and to reserve your seat.

Seating is limited, so registration will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration can be made online at http://www. ccswcd.com. Individuals can also send their registration to CC Seminar, Champaign Co. SWCD, 2110 W. Park Court, Suite C, Champaign, IL 61821.

Make checks payable to Champaign Co. SWCD.

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5 Perspective Friday, January 24, 2014 • The Tonica News • 5

The Editorial Page The Tonica News Sam R Fisher

Terri Simon

Publisher

Editor

Snaking through the past There are certain (often painful) lessons learned by being a member of the close-knit farming community. The benefits of growing up on a country homestead far outweigh the bumps, bruises, smashed appendages, cuts, scrapes, gouges, fearful animal encounters, dust filled lungs, sore muscles, sun burnt COMMENTARY skin, electrical shocks, chemical burns, near miss chainsaw accidents, and those funny, snap buckle overshoes that took forever to stretch on, yet never really kept anything off your regular footwear.

Foggy memories such as these are both the reason I no longer reside on a farm, and the cause of my longing for the simpler days of being trampled by cattle, saturated with oil from broken hydraulic lines, or tumbling from the hay mound due to heat exhaustion, soaked with sweat and covered from wrist to elbow in paper cut-like scratches.

I may write a book someday, examining in great detail the vast learning universe of “The Farm,” but for now will present only this incomplete list of knowledge gleaned from my rural upbringing.

I learned the hard way that a scrawny, 78-pound weakling cannot hold up an aluminum panel gate with several thousand pounds of jittery bovine crowding against it. Any sentence containing the word castration certainly eliminates all thoughts you entertained for a large, over indulgent lunch.

Unless you are seeking a career as a handler in a traveling menagerie, and feel that hands-on experience will provide you a decided edge during the interview process, most non-domestic wildlife events (often accompanied with girly shrieks of terror) are to be avoided. Barbwire is extremely sharp, even when dull. Those horseweeds you fed to the hogs, which made them lethargic and hungry, weren’t really horseweeds. This knowledge came later in life, after witnessing the lethargic and hungry friends of your best friends’ older brother smoking something very much resembling horseweeds.

Yet, as I reminisce on those days, the most painful (and perhaps the most entertaining) artifact of learning I absorbed was this: I can not, even with the passing of time, believe how fast my dad could run.

I’m not talking about the puddle hopping trot from barn to house in the midst of a spring gully washer, or the ninja-like quickness it took to corral an errant hog. Nope, we’re dealing with a flat out, world class, Olympic medal-winning sprint. I only witnessed this event once, but the awe inspiring impression it left on me has lasted a lifetime.

You see, during the hay harvest back in the day, there was always that chance of finding a rabbit or quail or snake protruding from a bale; most often chewed up by the machinery ... yet on occasion, intact and still twitching. And so it was, on a sweltering day, standing on the edge of the hayrack, staring at the horizon, my dad decided to take a break ... oblivious to my forthcoming dastardly behavior. Before I could consider the repercussions of my actions, I had yanked a flimsy, damp, green milkweed stalk from a bale, yelled “SNAKE” at the top of my lungs, and casually tossed it across his shoulders.

Like a pale Jesse Owens exiting the starting blocks in Berlin, he was off ... in mid stride, bringing to life the FTD florist logo, the DeKalb winged ear of corn on his hat replacing Mercury’s winged helmet. But for a hawk circling overhead, time stood still as we watched.

Two hundred yards later, upon realizing it wasn’t a snake, his return was even quicker.

Everything after that is a blur ... but yes, an invaluable lesson was learned on that long ago summer afternoon.

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

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.

On the street

What is your favorite comfort food in the winter?

Who fixes it best?

“Chili. I like my recipe.

I put in love when I make it.”

Kathy Hafley, Magnolia

“Chicken. I eat it all year long. Any place is good.

Any fried chicken, never had a bad piece.”

Jim Krieser, Lostant

“All of the food. My wife, Betty, does the cooking.

She’s the best.”

Jim Sluder, Tonica

“Pizza. A lot of toppings on it.”

Aden Gonzalez, Streator

Chuck Mason

“If I can get my mom to make it, I love her chicken and dumplings. I don’t know quite what she does to make it special. I wish I knew; I’d be doing the same thing.”

Paul Mertle, Tonica

Get off the phone!

Last week I passed a woman who was talking on her cell phone while driving.

As I continued on my destination, I passed three additional vehicles where the driver was talking on their cell phone right on Princeton’s main drag.

For those who maybe missed out, who didn’t realize or can’t remember, it’s now illegal to talk on your cell phone (holding the phone to the ear) while operating your vehicle.

As a reporter, who is always on the go and in need of constant communication at my fingertips, I admit it’s been hard for me to choke down. I felt a little irritated when they took away texting and driving (even though I’ll confess I had a few close calls with the street curb on that one).

But whether I like it or not, similar to having to wear my annoying seatbelt, I can’t afford to not follow the new regulation.

The law is there to keep us safe, and if this law is going to potentially save my life or someone else’s life, then so be it. No phone conversation is worth anyone’s life.

For those who are thinking otherwise, here’s just one more reminder on what you might face if you decide that phone conservation is a little more important.

Violators can be fined $75 for their first offense. I don’t know about you, but I’d love to spend

Goldie Currie COMMENTARY that extra $75 on something I want, rather than handing it over to my local police station. But if that’s just chump change for some folks, the second violation could be as much as $150 and a mark on their driving record.

For those willing to take it a little further, a third violation in the same year as the previous two could cost you a suspended driver’s license. No thanks! I know I take my driving freedom for granted way too much, but if that freedom was ever taken from me I’d lose, not only my job, but my sanity. Before anyone hits that point, I’d say it’s definitely worth looking into that “hands-free” talk technology.

However, if you’re still thinking the new cell phone law isn’t that impactful, our governor also signed his name next to legislation that increases penalties for drivers who injure or kill others in crashes caused by cell phone use.

Distracted motorists who injure someone face a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable with fines up to $2,500 and jail time. If a driver kills someone in an accident related to cell

phone use, not only do they have to carry guilt for the rest of their lives, but also felony charges.

Yeah, better get to the closest cell phone store for that “handsfree” talk device. I’m being a friend right now, and telling you that phone conversation is not worth a felony charge and the amount of guilt you would feel if you took someone else’s life.

For those who are laughing and don’t believe cell phones aren’t a factor in car crashes, it’s my job to type up the area’s police reports for the newspaper.

Therefore, I’m forced to read them all, and I really wish I had a quarter for every crash report I’ve read in the last three years that stated, “The driver admitted to looking down for a quick second to send a text message/dial a phone number before the crash.”

More than once have I reported on big vehicle accidents in this county, that were related to talking or texting on the cell phone. It’s not pretty, and it’s not fun reporting.

Get off the phone. Tell that person you’ll call them back.

Make a note to call them back.

Realize when the phone rings, it’s not the end of the world when you have to wait until you put the vehicle in park to call that person back!

Shaw Media Staff Writer Goldie Currie can be reached at gcurrie@bcrnews.com.

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

Constitution of the United States, 1789

6 Life 6 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 24, 2014

Community Tonica Volunteer Fire Department meets TONICA – At the recent Tonica Volunteer Fire Department meeting, Assistant Chief Bill Grany thanked everyone for help with the Deer Night dinner in December. Attendance was up with 148 paid dinners which was an increase from last year.

Tyler Rice was a guest and turned in an application. Misty Johnson also has an application and would like to become a TVFD EMT. New member Monica Kreiser’s application was approved by the town board and she has been accepted into the TVFD with a one year probation period.

Resignation letters were received from Dan Widdecombe, Ashley Samolitis and Terry Chambers. Donations of more than $100 were received from Thomas Ernat, Rich and Kim Higgins, Larry and Dorene Giltner and Phillip and Janice Duffell.

A hose test was completed over two days.

A large amount of hose has become out of date and will need to be replaced. Another item that needs to be replaced is the hose bed tarp on pumper 1714 because it has been damaged.

Northern Partners made a donation to TVFD for the purchase of a grain rescue tube.

The group held the

annual elections of officers and two board of directors for 2014. The following positions were filled: chief, Al Stremlau; secretary, Woody Olson; treasurer, Sue Huss; assistant treasurer, Renee Kohr; and the board of directors included Tom Goskusky and Rick Turri.

Former Chief Todd Anderson gave remarks to the group as to his retirement from the position. He said it is always a difficult to balance the duties of chief, work and family.

Anderson said, “Come together around Al Stremlau, give him the respect he deserves, run stuff by him and most of all support him.”

Rick Turri presented the driver training program. Attendance was good and 23 drivers completed the required driver training.

The TVFD also had 19 lengths of old two and a half feet hose which were donated to the LaSallePeru High School Area Career Center Fire Class.

Kari Leffelman and Olson reported they conducted a first aid/Readyman merit badge session for six scouts, two guests and their leader. A tour of the station, ambulance and a history of the EMS in Tonica were also covered. All the participants earned their badges.

IVCC students: Time to file FAFSA OGLESBY — Students interested in attending Illinois Valley Community College next fall should file a FAFSA by Feb. 15.

Financial Aid Director Patty Williamson said students filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid by Feb. 15 will have the best chance of receiving state MAP grant dollars.

“MAP dollars are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis,” said Williamson. “If MAP runs out before a student applies, it could be a loss of up to $1,800.”

Williamson said an estimated FAFSA can be filed using last year’s tax return information and updated later after the 2013 return is filed. She encouraged students to apply even if they don’t believe they’ll qualify for an award.

“Students should apply anyway. It is free and they need to apply in order to qualify for a low-

interest student loan, work on campus or apply for IVCC Foundation scholarships,” Williamson said. “Every year, I have students who don’t believe they’ll qualify for aid and are surprised to find they do.”

Awards range from $600 to $5,000 and more.

Williamson said applicants sometimes receive enough aid to cover all tuition, fees, books and course-related materials plus transportation and other living expenses.

IVCC has set up time on Fridays to assist students with the application from 2 to 4 p.m. beginning Feb. 7 at Ottawa Center and in Room E216 at the Oglesby campus Feb. 14.

Students should bring their 2013 federal tax return and/or W2 forms, their Social Security number and that of their parents, driver’s license and federal pin number.

For information, call 815-224-0438.

Comet Times returns to Lostant Grade School

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

LOSTANT — The next generation of journalists is being born in Lostant.

Lostant Grade School is publishing the Comet Times, a monthly newspaper covering events in and around the school.

Paraprofessional Rita Ford is the sponsor for the activity.

“They haven’t had a paper here for two or three years and there was a big interest in it,” Ford said. “We print four pages, two double-sided pages. It’s also available in color online at the Lostant school website.

If you go to activities, click newspaper and there are connections to all the past issues.”

Ford said around a dozen seventh- and eighthgraders are involved in the paper. Students usually work on their favorite topics, although some are branching out and working on different types of stories.

“I let them follow their interests but I do have to give them some guidance,” Ford said. “We

Tonica News photo/Ken Schroeder

Logan Kreiser (left) and Auston Pflibsen work on stories for the January issue of the Comet Times. have a spotlight on a student, a spotlight on staff.

We try to say something about things going on.

We also put in items from classwork. One student

Scholarships now available at IVCC OGLESBY — Students can now apply for more than 100 scholarships available for the fall 2014 and spring 2015 semesters at Illinois Valley Community College.

The deadline to apply for 2014-15 academic awards is March 7. The application is available at www.ivcc.edu and from the IVCC Foundation office (C-202). Applicants must also file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online by April 18.

High school seniors considering IVCC next fall and individuals planning to enroll at the college for the first time must also submit high school transcripts. For information, call Donna Swiskoski at 815-2240551.

Scholarships range in value from $500 to $2,000 and more. Since its inception in 1976, the Foundation has awarded more than $2.2 million to more than 3,700 students.

Putnam County Community Centers Menus Jan. 27 — Salisbury steak with gravy, mashed potatoes, Normandy blend blushing pears, wheat bread.

Jan. 28 — Roast pork, parslied red potatoes, peas, roll and butter, dessert, milk.

Jan. 29 — Pork chop, baked beans, mixed vegetables, dice peaches with cottage cheese, bread.

Jan. 30 — Barbeque on bun, baked beans,

fruit, dessert.

Jan. 31 — Key West chicken, rice, broccoli, pineapple chunks, juice cup, rye bread.

To make reservations, call 815-339-2711 at least 24 hours before the meal. Menu is subject to change. MondayWednesday-Friday suggested donation is $3.

Tuesday and Thursday suggested donation is $5. Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m.

Eagle watching UTICA — The Illinois Audubon Society will sponsor live eagle viewing from the top of Starved Rock Jan. 25 and 26. Free events are scheduled to take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days at Starved Rock Lodge, the Illinois Waterway Visitors Center and Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center. For more information, visit the Illinois Audubon Society website at www.illinoisaudubon.org.

wrote a paper on John F. Kennedy for class, and we shared that. We’ll do history and geography, things that are educational and fun.

“I enjoy working with the kids, and they seem to enjoy it a lot, and the rest of the children seem to enjoy it around the school,” Ford said.

Library Corner LaSalle — Jan. 28 — Storytime Express is an interactive mix of stories complemented with a variety of engaging activities like crafts, flannel boards, rhymes, songs and puppets. It is formatted to introduce children to the library and early literacy skills. The shorter, 30-minute length and fast pace make it perfect for active children with shorter attention spans, and the express is a great way for busy parents to share special times with their children. Time will be set aside to help families find just the right books to check-out.

Fun and educational, Storytime Express is a

free program, open to the public. Storytime Express will be offered from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Tuesdays. For more information, call 815-223-2341.

Lostant — Jan. 28 — Families First, a state funded early childhood grant, is a program for families with children ages birth to 3. It is sponsored by the Oglesby Early Childhood Programs.

Children will read stories, sing songs, learn finger plays, do an easy art project and have a snack. The program also includes field trips and parent education meetings.

Families First meets from 10 to 10:45 a.m. every Tuesday.

Date: Feb. 9, 2014 Time: Noon - 4:30 PM Place: Sauk Valley Community College What: Visit with 30 vendors that specialize in planning YOUR perfect wedding.

Admission: $5

Seno Formal Wear Fashion Show: 3 PM Tickets Available Now at: Sauk Valley Media • Sterling, IL Telegraph • Dixon, IL

Style Show sponsored by Seno Formal Wear and Satin ‘N Lace

Sponsored By:

7 Life Friday, January 24, 2014 • The Tonica News • 7

PC-Hall varsity co-op takes fifth at prestigious Kewanee Invitational

By Dixie Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

KEWANEE — The PCHall varsity co-op competed in the 13-team Kewanee Invitational on Jan. 18 and bought home a fifth-place finish, scoring 129 points.

Placing for the squad was Dominic Elliot, who weighed in at the 120pound weight division.

Elliot, owning an 11-7 record on the season, earned a bye in the first round which moved him onto round two, where he took on Sherwood’s Keegan Bryant and won by major decision 9-1.

Elliot then lost to eventual bracket winner Justin Kinney in the first period at 1:14. In wrestlebacks, he then drew Fulton’s Jake Hoffman and ended his day with a fifth-place finish.

At the 126-pound weight division, Mario Flores, with a record of 13-6, drew a bye in his first round which took him up against Jesee Ditzler of Polo. Flores lost by major decision 12-2, then moved into wrestlebacks where he went up against Alex Sous of Peoria Notre Dame and ended up with a sixth-place finish.

In what coach Jerry Kreiwald called the

“toughest” weight class of the tournament, Ben Garland, with a 11-7 record, earned a third-place finish in the 152-pound weight division. Garland held a bye in the first round and then beat Alex Gonzales of Peoria Notre Dame by pinfall at 3:39 in the second round. He then took on eventual second-place finisher Omar Delgado of Kewanee and lost which threw him into wrestlebacks. In the third-place match of the tournament, Garland faced Gonzales again and beat him by a pinfall at 5:24 into the match.

In the 160-pound weight class, Cole Elliot, with an 11-7 record, took on Auburn’s Cole Elliot and won by a pinfall at :28 seconds into the match after a first-round bye. Elliot then drew eventual second-place winner Dylan Mizaur of Sherwood and took him to the third period before losing in a pinfall at 5:27.

Elliot, then in wrestlebacks, beat Thomas Berry of Knoxville in the second period by pinfall at 4:34, but then lost to Monmouth-Roseville’s Lane McIntyre in a decision 7-1 to take home fourth place in the bracket.

James Hall, holding an 11-9 record, wrestled in

the 182-pound weight division and earned an eventual fifth-place finish.

Hall pulled a bye in round one and then took on Mendota’s David Birdsell, beating him in the second period by pinfall at 3:04 in the match. Hall then encountered MonmouthRoseville’s Logan Millizer who beat him in a technical fall 17-2. In wrestlebacks, Hall encountered D.J. Ackman from Knoxville who again took him in a technical fall 15-0.

At the 195-pound weight class, Matt Briddick (6-4) started in the second round after a bye in the first. Briddick took down Kewanee’s Skylar Finnin in the second round at 1:27 by pinfall. In the third round, against Fulton’s Zack Jenkins, Briddick took it into the second period and then lost by pinfall at 2:50. In wrestlebacks, Briddick then faced Polo’s Jacob Cain who beat him by decision 8-4, which earned him a fourth place finish.

Marco Guterriez (135) started in the second round in the 220-pound weight division after a bye against Peoria Manuel’s Shawn Marizetts and won in the second period by pinfall at 3:30. Guterriez then faced eventual first-

place winner, Polo’s Jaun Dominguez and lost by decision 7-0. In wrestlebacks, he then took on Illinois Valley Chillicothe’s Aaron Kirchner and in a tough match lost again by decision 6-4, earning a fourth-place finish for his team.

In the heavyweight division, Marco Uribe (3-10) started his day in the second round after a first round bye. Uribe took on IVC’s Nick Jennings and lost in the first period by a pinfall at 1:48. In wrestlebacks, Uribe then went up against Fulton’s Steven Balk who pinned him during the first period at 38 seconds. This took Uribe to the fifth-place match against Monmouth-Roseville’s Shain Johnson who beat him by decision 3-2 in a close match, earning Uribe a sixth-place finish in the bracket.

Kreiwald was thrilled for his young team to have such a great showing.

“This is the best we have done at this tournament as a team,” he said.

“It was an exciting day.

We are such a young team with nobody more than one year of experience, but the squad is making a great impression on the area coaches and the community.”

Henry Mallards fly over PC Panthers, 63-48 GRANVILLE — The Putnam County Panthers lost an important contest on Jan. 17 in R.M. Germano Gymnasium, dropping to the Henry Mallards 63 to 48.

Henry stepped out of the box fast, dropping in two baskets before Putnam County was able to get into the game.

Although the lead went back and forth in the first period, the Mallards went into the second period leading 16-14. Henry quickly scored nine unanswered points, and

the Panthers just couldn’t catch up from there.

The Mallards’ Nathan Helle led all scorers with 18 points. Harold Fay and Alec Veverka paced the Panthers with 14 apiece and Evan Kreiser tossed in an additional 12 points. Veverka came up with 14 rebounds and Kreiser scooped up another 10 in their losing effort.

Both teams went into the contest with a 13-2 record. The Mallards come out 14-2 and 3-0 in the league. The Pan-

thers drop to 13-3 and 3-2 in league play. This win sets the Mallards as the top seed going into the Tri-County Conference Tournament, while

PC draws second. The two teams have two more potential games this season, in the finals in the TCC or in the Class 1A Marquette Regional.

Illinois Valley Dolphins swim at Ottawa

By Dixie Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

OTTAWA — The Illinois Valley YMCA Dolphins swam their way to compete at the Ottawa YMCA on Jan. 18.

Wenona’s Americus Berg, 9, brought home a seventh-place finish in the 100 yard freestyle with a time of 2:08.68.

She also finished ninth in the 40 yard backstroke at 48.65. Berg ended her day with a 10th-place finish in the 40 yard freestyle in 42.09.

Little brother Xavier Berg, 10, took a fourthplace finish in the 20 yard backstroke at

26.90. He also swam to a fifth-place finish in the 20 yard freestyle in 24.53 and a seventhplace finish in the 40 yard freestyle at 1:17.66.

Cody Smith, 12, of Wenona had a hot day of swimming bringing home a first-place finish in the 200 yard freestyle at 2:30.49. Smith then earned two more second-place finishes in the 40 yard freestyle at 24.36 and the 100 yard backstroke at 1:17.40.

Smith’s freestyle and backstroke times are at district qualifying levels.

The next meet for the Dolphins will be at home on Jan. 25 against Ottawa and Rockford.

JV co-op does well at Erie-Prophetstown

By Dixie Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

ERIE — The PC-Hall junior varsity co-op took to the road on Jan. 17 to participate in the 25-team Erie-Prophetstown Invitational. The Panthers had several team members place in the competitive event.

At the 170-pound weight division, Josh

McConnell took first place. Luke McCook brought home a second place finish at the 152pound weight division.

Evan Kiphart at the 195pound weight division placed third while Isaac Marquez took fourth place in the 220-pound weight division.

The Panthers will compete in their own Super Dual meet on Feb. 1.

Quilters Guild will meet Feb. 6 in Princeton PRINCETON — The Covered Bridge Quilters Guild will meet at 7 p.m. Feb. 6 at Christ Community Church in Princeton. The program, “Tips, Tricks & Pointers,” will be presented by Carol Betts, CBQG member.

Guests are welcome to attend for a $5 fee. A workshop will be at 9 a.m. Feb. 8 at the church. The project, “Sweatshirt Jacket,” will be taught by Carol Betts.

For information, call Terry Johnson at 815-872-0534.

Check out our websites for breaking news in your area.

815-339-6278 • Open 7 Days a Week

Half Price Hump Day is coming!

www.paganolearys.net 304 S. McCoy St. • Granville, IL

www.putnamcountyrecord.com www.tonicanews.com

The Tonica News

8 History/Classifieds 8 • The Tonica News • Friday, January 24, 2014

History... according to The Tonica News 10 years ago

Tonica News photos/Ken Schroeder

Lostant students compete in spelling bee Pronouncer Amy Olson gives a word to Dallas Powell during the Jan. 14 annual spelling bee at Lostant Grade School.

Twenty-four students from sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grades competed for the chance to go to the Regional Spelling Bee at 9 a.m. on Feb. 15 in Ottawa. Hunter Witzman came in first with Ben Tran second.

Fred French

Alan Bruner

Zonta Club to host trivia night PERU — The Zonta Club of LaSalle-Peru is hosting a trivia night on Feb. 7 at the Peru Eagles Club at 830 Harrison St. Tickets are $15 a person, teams can have up to 8 players. Prizes will be awarded

to the top three teams.

Food and drinks will be available to purchase. To reserve a table, call Ann at MarkAllen’s at 815-2200642. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the game will start at 6:30 p.m.

Zonta is a worldwide organization working to advance the status of women through service and advocacy, and much of what the LaSalle-Peru club does benefits local women.

The Tonica/Lostant Boy Scouts held a paper drive on Jan. 10.

Linda’s Dance Factory Inc. of Toluca Dynamics trampoline and tumbling team captured two second-place trophies and one third-place award at their first regional meet of the season held in Normal on Nov. 22. The results of the Tonica members of the team included: tumbling, beginners — Tana Mareta, fourth place; double mini trampoline, beginners — Hope Bantista, third place. In the same category, Alexi Mareta, novice division, earned a sixth place. Trampoline beginner Rosie Bantista planed eighth and Hope Bantista placed fifth.

The CCD students of St. John’s Catholic Church performed the Joyful Mysteries Pageant on Jan. 1 at St. John’s Church in Lostant. Forty children were in costume reliving The Annunciation, The Visitation, The Birth of Jesus, The Presentation and Finding Jesus in the Temple. Mass for Holy Day followed the performance.

Jack Weis, president of Weis Real Estate of Oswego, announced Brad Lindstrom of Lostant has joined his business. Lindstrom is a graduate of Western Illinois University and was operating the family farming operation in the Marshall County area.

Deb Lawrence from Casey’s General Store in Tonica announced that Dave Wilts was the winner of a free large pizza. The prize was Casey’s entry in the merchant giveaway program when Santa came to Tonica on Dec. 13.

20 years ago Progress of the new fire station is coming along. It has been two years since the new station was discussed

––––––––––– Classifieds –––––––––– - 400 - 200 General Terms Buy It! Sell It! Merchandise Employment and Policies See It Right Here!

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

228 • Help Wanted

450 • Under $1000

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION Seeking Community Worker, Master Gardener/4-H. 30 hours per week with benefits in the MarshallPutnam Extension Office, Henry. Interested individuals must submit the required online application and exam request for the EXT Community Worker position. Position description and online application process available upon request. Call 815-875-2878.

Application process must be fulfilled by 2/3/14. University of Illinois is an AA/ EOE

************ HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL?

PROMOTE JOB OPENINGS We can help get your business fully staffed.

Call 815-875-4461

The Tonica News

Classifieds • 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.

For SALE

E-mail information to: classified@ bcrnews.com (include your name, address & phone number)

In TonIca, ILLInoIs 3,000 sq. ft. for only $69,000!

815-488-8456

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Why? Because we offer a course manual that no one else does! Our classes are completed in a warm room. We have our own INDOOR heated gun range. Our classes are by appointment only! All inclusive means just that, all you bring are proper ID and your FOID card.

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All our classes are taught by NRA pistol instructors.

at the monthly meeting of the Tonica Volunteer Fire Department. Once of the aspects of the process was to collect ideas and information from other fire stations already in use and under construction. The proposed building size was initially 100 by 120 feet.

Family caroling was planned for Dec. 22. Karla Goskusky was the organizer of this event.

The Tonica 1993 Whizz Kids, ages 66 to 81, enjoyed a tennis match on one of the milder December days. The Whizz Kids include Ray Colton, Burdette Ford, Don Siemers and Bill Bray.

Amanda Bell Spitzer of Lostant was named a fifth-place winner in the Distinguished Poet Awards contest sponsored by Sparrows Poetry Forum. The fifth-place winner receives a certificate in addition to a cash reward and publication of their poem.

The Lostant Fire Department held its annual Santa Claus visit on Dec. 18.

On Dec. 19 the Lostant/Richland United Methodist Sunday school presented the children’s Christmas program. Christmas Eve service was held at Richland on Dec. 24 at 7 p.m. and at Lostant at 11 p.m. The Rev. Bill McDannell was pastor at both churches.

The Tonica United Methodist Women enjoyed a potluck dinner at its December meeting. A birthday cake was enjoyed by all in honor of Cecil Gehm’s 90th birthday. Elaine Ford presented a program explaining Joseph’s part in the Christmas story.

Doris Ryan and Dr. Robert Sanders installed the 1994 officers which included Evalynne Cate as president, Betty Scott as vice president, Eloise Long as secretary and Marcia Kreiser as treasurer.

NOTICE

EDEN TOWNSHIP RESIDENCE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION

NEW APPLICATIONS: This notice is for persons filing the Homestead Exemption for the first time. Senior citizens who are or will be 65 years old during 2014 and who own their home and reside in it are eligible for the $5,000 Homestead exemption on the real estate tax bill. Contact me for an application form.

EXISTING HOMESTEADS: Renewal forms for existing Homestead Exemptions Forms have been mailed. All recipients should read the form, answer all questions completely, and return the form to the township office.

ASSESSMENT FREEZE EXEMPTIONS

HOMESTEAD TAX FREEZE: Renewal forms for the Assessment Freeze Exemption will be included in the mailing with the regular Homestead Exemptions. Your total household income must be no more than $55,000 for the year 2013. This exemption freezes your assessed valuation, not your real estate taxes. Forms must be filled out, signed, notarized and returned to the township office.

VETERANS: Two exemptions for Veterans have been created by House Bill 644, 1 for disabled veterans and 1 for returning servicemen. Forms are available at the office and must be filed directly with the county.

DISABLED PERSON: An exemption created by House Bill 554, gives a $2,000 exemption for a Class II disabled person. Forms are available at the office and must be filed directly with the county.

Any questions, call 815-442-8280 (Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. till 3 p.m.)

EDEN TOWNSHIP ASSESSOR James P Lock, CIAO 504 Linden St. Tonica, IL 61370

Published in the Tonica News Jan. 24, 2014.