TON-03-21-2014

1 Front Volume 141 No. 4

Friday, March 21, 2014

The Tonica News

Single Copy Cost 50¢

Village Inn property split Sluder: ‘That’s a valuable corner’

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

TONICA — The former Village Inn property has been broken into two subdivisions by the Tonica Village Board on March 17 following a recommendation by the Tonica Zoning Board.

The property was split into a four-acre parcel to the north and a 3.9-acre parcel to the south.

“What I like about it is it does split those 7.9 acres up which makes the other half easier to sell, which does bode well for us for, hopefully, someone coming in and purchasing it,” Sluder said. “But if it goes to someone else and they do the same thing, that’s not going to bode well at all.”

A buyer was already found for the north parcel, but village President

Kevin Sluder told the board that parcel will not be generating any revenue for the village.

“The building that’s coming in there is not going to be helping the village. It’s not going to generate sales tax. It will generate a couple of dollars in property tax,” Sluder said. “I believe that’s a valuable corner, and I don’t want to lose it. I really think it can generate some business.”

Sluder would like the

village to consider buying the second lot to safeguard it from becoming another lot that does not generate revenue. The asking price for the parcel is $255,000. Most of the board members are open to the idea, but Bob Foltynewicz believes the village should not get involved in the matter.

“It hasn’t been on (the market) that long; let’s let it take its course,” Foltynewicz said. “I think we’ve got enough prob-

lems with the sewer and the brand new plant to worry about it. Us buying it is not going to make it sell quicker.”

Sluder will be talking to area residents and investors to see if there is interest in purchasing the lot as an investment.

Attorney Ray Nolasco represented the owner at the board meeting.

In other action, the board: • Discussed applying for another Commu-

nity Development Assistance Program (CDAP) grant to aid in funding the new water treatment plant. Ben Wilson from the North Central Illinois Council of Governments explained the positive and negative consequences of the application. The grant for $450,000 would cost the village $2,000 to apply for with no guarantee of receiving the grant.

Village engineer Jack

See Property Page 2

The highs and lows Figuring out how much you’ll pay for fuel

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

TONICA — Many have probably noticed it costs a little bit more to fill the gas tank lately. Gasoline prices have gone up during the last month an average of 18 cents per gallon across the country, and the current price nationwide is about $3.50.

Illinois, as one might expect, is a bit more. Illinois gas prices have gone up more than 30 cents a gallon during the last month, according to Gas Buddy. com. Illinois’ average price for regular gasoline sits at $3.77, well below the national high of $4.16 in Hawaii but also well above the average.

On the plus side, Illinois gas is cheaper than last year at this time ($3.83), and prices are likely to go down after March ends. That was the prediction made in January by GasBuddy.com chief analyst Tom Kloza.

However, just last week, gas prices were predicted to rise as the Federal Reserves moves its investments from gold to crude oil. That prediction was also made by Kloza. Which prediction is correct? Even Kloza can’t really say for sure.

“Gas prices are very, very bubbly,” Kloza said.

The U.S. Energy Information Agency (EIA) made its gas price predictions for 2014 and 2015 in a report on Feb. 11. The EIA expects the average price for gasoline to decline over the next two years with an average of $3.44 a gallon for Vol. 141 No. 4 One Section - 8 Pages

2014 and $3.36 in 2015.

That prediction is based on the U.S. economic recession and a rise in the use of more fuel-efficient vehicles, which have contributed to lower demand for gasoline as well as recent increases in U.S. oil production. A higher supply and a lower demand usually means lower prices.

However, the oil companies recently successfully lobbied to lower the ethanol requirements established by the Environmental Protection Agency in 2007.

Oil refineries claimed the earlier, tougher standards would make it too difficult for mixing additives and would be detrimental to car engines. That may also play a part in the price at the pump.

How much control does an individual gas station have over its pump prices?

Some but not a lot.

“We don’t necessarily follow the prices set by corporate,” said Tonica Casey’s Manager Deb Lawrence.

“We try to stay competitive.”

However, local gas stations have to charge enough to stay profitable, and lower prices cut into the bottom line.

While experts at EIA and GasBuddy.com both agree prices should not reach the $4 mark seen in the past, they also agree the next several months will be a bumpy ride, especially as gas prices typically rise during the warmer months when increase demands from travel causing lower supplies.

Tonica News photo/Dixie Schroeder

Finally ... Outside to play!

Second-grade students at Tonica Grade School line up to come in from noon recess on March 14. It was one of the first days the students were allowed outside for recess this spring.

An end to books in the classroom?

Not yet ... but technology tends to rule at some schools, classrooms

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

LOSTANT — Area schools have always worked to prepare students for today’s world. Changes in technology are likewise changing the way students are taught. The days of reading books in order to learn lessons may be gone in the not-sodistant future.

“We use iPads in the classroom as well as computers in the computer lab. We made iBooks about figurative language as well as one about presidents,” said Amy Olson of Lostant Grade School.

“I use united streaming through Discovery.com to show historical videos. In the computer lab we use Microsoft Office programs like Excel, Word and Powerpoint,

as well as a math website called Mangahigh.com, a typing program called Mavis Beacon, and our school subscribes to Studyisland. com.

“I like using the iPads especially for the iBooks because they can be saved for other students to view and learn from,” Olson said. “The iPads are easy for the kids to handle, and they enjoy the technology vs. the paper and

See Technology Page 3

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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.

2014 Illinois Midwinter Bald Eagle Survey yields record count

SPRINGFIELD – A record-setting number of American bald eagles was reported during the annual Illinois Midwinter Bald Eagle Survey coordinated by the Illinois Audubon Society. Volunteers tallied 5,975 birds between the dates of Jan. 1 and Jan. 15.

Extremely cold temperatures in northern parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin caused a surge in the numbers of overwintering birds along the Illinois waterways. Survey routes are located on the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers with additional routes on the Ohio and Wabash Rivers, Crab Orchard Lake, Horseshoe Lake Conservation Area and Carlyle Lake.

According to Tom Clay, the society’s executive director, “Our 2014 P.O. Box 86, Tonica, IL survey surpassed 2013 (2,325 total) and topped 61370 (USPS 633340) the highest recorded Published every Friday count (since 1992) of at Tonica, IL 61370 4,292 reported in 2008.”

Entered at Tonica Post Office The largest populations as Periodical Mail of the eagles spotted were $22 In LaSalle County counted along the Mis$25 Outside of LaSalle County sissippi River (93.6 percent of the overall total), followed by 4.4 percent observed on the Illinois River and 2 percent Publisher sighted on the remaining Sam Fisher routes. The number of adults versus immature sfisher@tonicanews.com eagles reported on these Editor surveys, an important indicator of recovery and Terri Simon survival, remains at 60 tsimon@tonicanews.com percent and 40 percent, respectively.

Nationally, this effort is administered by the U.S. In the March 14 story Army Corps of Engineers on the Tonica Alumni Din- (USACE). The goal of the ner, it stated Tonica Grade School students are invited to attend. The alumni dinner committee means only From Page 1 to invite TGS graduates Kusek pointed out the who have graduated from village would have to high school. postpone the construction of the plant if they applied for the grant, The Tonica News since the grant cannot encourages readers to sub- go to a project already mit news for publication in started. The board asked our paper. Special events, weddings, births, awards and honors, anniversaries, promotions, etc. are welcome items for the paper.

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This American Bald Eagle is headed toward his lunch in the Hennepin Canal. Every year a count of bald eagles is held by the Illinois Audubon Society. This year the count was held between Jan. 1 and Jan. 15, and 5,975 of the national birds were counted in the state. survey is to maintain the in bald eagles and their promote the perpetuation nois’ oldest private conserlong-term, national coor- conservation. and appreciation of native vation organization with dination of the surveys Information regarding plants and animals and over 2,300 members, 20 collected, analysis of that the 2014 survey and pre- the habitats that support chapters and 17 affiliate data, and reporting of the vious years’ data can be them. The Illinois Audu- groups. The Illinois Auduresults. Locally, survey data obtained by calling the Illi- bon Society is an indepen- bon Society has protected collected provides informa- nois Audubon Society at dent, member supported, over 3,300 acres by investtion on eagle trends, dis- 217.544.2473. not-for-profit, statewide ing more than $6.6 million tribution and habitat and The mission of the Illi- organization. Founded in to protect land and water helps create public interest nois Audubon Society is to 1897, the society is Illi- throughout Illinois.

Wilson to look into the likelihood of the village receiving serious consideration for the grant.

• Discussed options on dredging out Bailey Creek to alleviate flooding in the area. Dead trees and garbage are impeding the flow of the creek, causing back-up during flooding

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• Received an update on the progress of the new maintenance building construction from Kusek and Public Works Supervisor Marc Lemrise.

• Discussed the proposed pillow tax ordinance of 4 percent, and how it might be inter-

preted. The board sent the ordinance back to village lawyer Bob Steele for further refinement.

• Tabled the decision to hire someone to read the water meters which would allow the public works department more time to concentrate on other matters.

• Set the last date for receiving mowing bids for the village as March 24.

• Granted its proxy votes to Jeremy Hillyer for the Tonica Technologies Telephone Board.

The village owns one share in Tonica Technologies which allows it to vote in the election.

3 Obit Records Friday, March 21, 2014 • The Tonica News • 3

Mendez arrested on drug charge SPRING VALLEY — A Spring Valley man has been charged with the Class 2 felony of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance, heroin.

The Tri-County Drug

Enforcement Narcotics Team (TRI-DENT) arrested Andres Mendez Jr., 38, of Spring Valley on an original LaSalle County arrest warrant on March 7 and charged him with

the Class 2 felony.

The arrest warrant was issued for Mendez following a lengthy investigation by TRI-DENT into narcotic sales activity in the LaSalle/Peru area,

with that investigation resulting in Mendez’s arrest. On a previous occasion, Mendez delivered less than one gram of purported heroin to an undercover TRI-DENT

agent.

Mendez was taken into custody in Peru and transported to the LaSalle County Jail. His bond was set at $1 million with 10 percent to apply.

Dalzell man charged with drug felony DALZELL — A Dalzell man has been arrested by the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Team (TRI-DENT) and charged with the Class 3 felony of possession

of cannabis, 30 to 500 grams, with the intent to deliver.

After an investigation, with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Service, TRI-DENT agents arrest-

ed Daniel P. Simpson, 39, on March 7 in Spring Valley. At that time, he was found to be in possession of between 30 and 500 grams of suspected cannabis.

Simpson was transported to the Bureau County Jail and is being held in custody on a $15,000 bond with 10 percent to apply.

TRI-DENT consists of

the Princeton, Streator, Ottawa, LaSalle, Oglesby and Mendota police departments and the Bureau, Putnam and LaSalle counties sheriff’s departments.

Committee suggests life space/cyber cafe at IVCC OGLESBY — Long-awaited student life space and a cyber cafe are the centerpieces of construction projects recommended by the Illinois Valley Community College Board’s facilities committee.

Committee members said they would recommend using $270,000 of $443,106 in surplus operations and

maintenance funds to complete projects totaling more than $1.5 million.

“The surplus funds were accumulated through reduced utility costs and unexpended contingency budgets,” said Vice President for Business Services and Finance Cheryl Roelfsema.

The projects address a decades-long need for a large

gathering area for students to interact and work on projects together in a way that is more in step with four-year colleges and universities.

The student life space will be in the former counseling area in E-Building, and the cafe will be in the main lobby.

Other Phase 3 construction projects could include

moving emergency medical services into the former home of electronics in Lower Level D and expanding Jacobs Library into the vacant cashier’s office off the main lobby.

Committee members viewed architect’s sketches of the cafe and student life area. Their recommendations will go to the full board

March 13.

The committee also made its initial review of a 2016 Resource Allocation Management Plan (RAMP) request to expand Jacobs Library and the fitness center. RAMP is the state list for capital development requests; colleges must resubmit projects each year to remain on the list.

TVFD March meeting minutes TONICA — Long-time Tonica Volunteer Fire Department retired members Bob Baer and Jim Lock were recognized for their many years of service and were made honorary members at the department’s March meeting.

Several donations of more than $100 have been received recently including contributions from Trudy Cook, the family of Norene Hamlin, the family of Rita Janusick, the family of Laura Trumpinski, the family of Burdette Ford, Dale and Mary Jane Huss, Hildi Grivetti, Benjamin and Patricia Laubscher, Charles Myers, Eric Dauber, Don Fike, Dan Arkels, John Bangert, Burdette Boers, Trudy Cook, Jeff Gray, Toby Harms, Doris Hodge, Mareta Ravioli, Jeffery Mudge, William Obermiller, Robert Olson, Charles Schiffbauer, Doug Schiffbauer, Terry Schmitt, Rodney Strack, Tom Alleman, Robert Ashley, Ronald Bangert, Jeff Bassett, John Beenenga,

Gerald Bernabei, Donley Bernardoni, Gary Brooker, Eric Dauber, Dave Dutkiewicz, Bill Emm, Gary Ford, Larry and Doreen Giltner, Larry Goodbred, Ron Gregorich, Nolan Hallock, Hickory Grove LLC, Pat Hiester, William Jaegle, Gail Jaegle, John Janz, Josh and Julie Kilday, William and Sandra Kummer, Ted Lambert, Dan Maack, Brian Marcinkus, Kelly Micheli, Shawn Micheli, Donald Miller, Jeff Miller, Tobias Miller, Barbara Ong, Jim Reynolds, Janet Rose, Noelle Sauter, Samuel Senica, Robert Siemers, Delmar Skerston, Stark Excavating Inc., Mark Steele, Larry Stillwell, Dale Straughn, Randy Swift, Lois Swift, Earle Theisinger, Vermillion Township and Tim and Carrie Lock.

The TVFD has responded to 28 emergency calls through the end of February.

Chief Al Stremlau attended the MABAS 25 meeting and reported LaSalle County Emergen-

cy Management Agency will be creating a database containing helpful evacuation information should a community be struck by a major disaster. Stremlau also noted a new state statute affecting the licensing of emergency vehicles became effective on Jan. 1.

Hanna Billig and Kaitlin Prettyman were accepted as probationary members of the department.

It was noted the TVFD has been awarded a grant for portable radios and portable hand-lights. Kim Goodbred reported on the TVFD fundraiser drawdown will occur on June 14. Renee Kohr reported on the TVFD fundraising drawing to be held during the Tonica Cruise-In. Tina Gray reported on the TVFD fundraiser Big Garage Sale which will be held May 2 and 3 at the fire station.

Captain Al Leffelman presented an update on the grain rescue tube the department is looking into obtaining. Captain Todd

Anderson reported on a cold smoke generating machine the department needs for training. The machine will cost approximately $2,000. Lieutanent Dan Francisco reported on uniforms which are needed for TVFD newer members.

Standardized ID badges are also required and will be coordinated by Woody Olson.

Ambulance administrator Sue Huss reported the TVFD Ambulance has passed its annual Department of Public Health inspection with no violations noted.

Many fire extinguishers, SCBA tanks and SCBA units along with the breathing air compressor at the fire station are due for recertification. These efforts will be a work-in-progress over the next few months.

The department approved the use of the fire station for the Beenenga Flower Benefit to be held from 3 to 10 p.m. on May 31.

The monthly fire depart-

ment training covered blood borne pathogens and communicable diseases; 35 members attended.

Rick Turri attended a four-hour training session covering fire behavior and reading smoke. The class was held at the Lostant Fire Station and was conducted by an Illinois Fire Institute Instructor.

The TVFD Board meeting was held. The directors conducted their annual financial review of 2013 activity. Stremlau was treasurer in 2013, so he answered any questions.

Financial controls are still in place and being complied with; some budget ideas were shared for 2014.

Stremlau stressed the need for veteran leadership and input from all members pertaining to how the department can reduce operating costs thus saving money. Veterans need to lead by example with attendance, training, effort, attitude and mentoring to pass along the TVFD traditions.

Better Business Bureau issues utilities scam warning CHICAGO — On the heels of the bitter cold temperatures that have hit Chicago and Northern Illinois, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is issuing a warning on scam artists that are targeting individual consumers and businesses with the false claim that their utility bills are delinquent and their service is in danger of being disconnected.

The BBB has received calls from concerned consumers and businesses who state they have received calls from individuals claiming to be from either ComEd or Nicor making demands

that they immediately make payment on their alleged delinquent accounts.

Whether the payment demand is purportedly for ComEd or Nicor, the callers ask that the consumers purchase a gift card

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“If a consumer receives one of these calls they should never provide any personal or financial information to the caller” said

Steve J. Bernas, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois. “Instead they should contact their utility company’s customer service department and verify that a call was made.”

Additionally, if you suspect that the call is fraudulent or you may be a victim of a scam you should contact your local police department.

For more information on scams, visit www.bbb. org/.

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Hicks edges McConville OTTAWA — In a tight race that went back and forth all night, Jared Hicks defeated Edward McConville to take the Democratic nomination for LaSalle County Treasurer. Hicks picked up 51.4 percent of the vote with 1,370 ballots, while McConville had 1,295 ballots for 48.6 percent of the vote. Hicks will face off against James Spelich, the Republican nominee for treasurer, in November. Spelich ran unopposed.

Technology From Page 1 Core curriculum for English is coming soon to classrooms from several educational book companies. These companies commented they will be changing the face of learning. In addition, the Obama administration has said it wants to be able to provide high speed Internet connections to 15,000 schools over the next two years while districts purchase the laptops and tablets needed to bring these lessons in.

“I think the education programs offered through computers and iPads have a role in our educational future,” Olson said. “When I started teaching 22 years ago, I had one computer in my room.

Now I have computers and iPads to use whenever I want to. The kids have grown up using it and can do tasks dealing with technology very easily. It’s a huge part of their life out of school and is definitely a part of their life at school as well. I see the role of technology increasing in the future for sure.”

The digital world of education comes with a price to get it into the hands of students in the classroom.

While positive results may have been noted, underserved schools see this innovation as something far, far away for their students.

Time will tell as to the benefits of this type of education.

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Celebrating 50 years at St. Joseph Nursing Home Editor’s note: This is the second article in the series celebrating St. Joseph Nursing Home’s 50th anniversary.

The Daughters of St. Francis of Assisi were blessed in their mission to serve the Lacon community with the generosity of Mrs. Elisabeth Specht donating her beautiful home and grounds to the sisters for their use and mission.

The Sisters’ difficult situation was introduced to Mrs. Elisabeth Specht of Lacon, by Fr. Kassovic during a visit. As a result on June 6, 1948, Mrs. Specht made a sudden decision to create, from her house, a new home for these Sisters without delay and contacted her lawyer immediately to change her testament that very day. In the early morning on June 7, 1948, Mrs. Elisabeth Specht suddenly died.

Photo contributed

Specht house Mrs. Specht’s house was the three-story brick mansion built shortly after the Civil War by Greenbury L. Fort. During the Civil War, he served in the quartermaster’s crops, by state appointment and finally by appointment, on large scale,

by President Abraham

Lincoln. He had served several terms as state senator and as a member of Congress. After his death, Mrs. Clara Fort spent much of her time traveling. At her death, the place went to her employees Frank Specht and his wife, Elisabeth, who was her nurse.

The first three Sisters moved into the Motherhouse in September 1948. When the Sisters arrived at their new home it was empty, most of the things were auctioned off shortly after Mrs. Specht’s death. However, their Slovak friends helped them furnish it with much needed necessities. In December 1948, the chapel was permitted; it was blessed and dedicated by Father Ernest Hawley, the Sisters’ Chaplain. On July 31, 1949 the home was blessed and officially received its new name - St. Joseph’s Convent.

In March 1968, the house was demolished for its aging, need of constant repairing and especially balance problem. In 1969, the new St. Joseph Convent was built on the same place and dedicated by Bishop John Franz on June 29.

Carus names new president PERU — Carus Group Inc. announced the promotion of Dave Kuzy to president and chief operating officer.

Kuzy joined Carus as COO May 1, 2013, with more than 25 years of chemical industry experience and a strong record of leadership in operations, sales, marketing and strategic planning for several Fortune 500 compa-

nies. Prior to joining Carus, he served as vice president of Albermarle Corporation’s Hydroprocessing Catalyst Division.

Kuzy succeeds Inga Carus as president of Carus Group Inc. Carus served as president and CEO from 2005 until she was appointed chairman of the board in October 2013. Carus will continue in her

role as chairman and CEO. “When Dave joined Carus, he brought with him a level of enthusiasm, experience and leadership that has created many positive opportunities for Carus’ growth strategy.

As president, Dave will provide the leadership and operating experience necessary to take Carus into new mar-

kets and to continue expanding our specialty product offerings,” said Inga Carus.

Kuzy is a graduate of the University of Akron, where he received his master’s of business administration in finance. He also holds a bachelor of science in chemical and petroleum engineering from the University of Pittsburgh.

Be prepared for flooding Flooding from ice jams and melting snow have affected some areas in the state. Eighteen to 24 inches of moving water can wash an SUV off of the road. In fact, according to the National Weather Service, more than half of all flood-related deaths are people driving through flooded roads. The nonprofit Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) reminds residents to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” and offers the following safety tips to protect your home from costly flood damage.

Before the flood All it takes is a few inches of water to cause major damage to your home and its contents.

Clear yard of any debris, plant material or items (garden décor, foliage or garbage cans) that can block water flow and storm drains.

If time permits, secure and/ or elevate outdoor appliances, AC units or storage tanks.

Analyze water flow through your yard and consider how water moves during a typical thunderstorm. Inspect critical areas (storm drains, culverts, berms, gutters and downspouts) to identify potential blockage to proper flow of water away from your home.

Place important papers (birth/marriage certificates, passports, bank

and insurance information) in a watertight container and keep them close. Take the container with you if evacuating or place in a high and dry location if sheltering in place.

Take photographs or videos to create an inventory of your personal possessions and keep the camera card handy in case of evacuation.

Don’t forget to open closets and drawers to document all of your belongings as they will become part of any potential insurance claim.

Identify and move electronics and other expensive items (computers, televisions, phone systems, area rugs, expensive furniture) on lower levels of the home and elevate if possible to keep them dry.

During the flood Get to higher ground. Stay away from flood-prone areas, including dips, low spots, valleys, ditches, washes, etc.

Avoid flooded areas or those with rapid water flow. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only 6 inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet.

Don’t allow children to play near high water, storm drains or ditches.

Hidden dangers could lie beneath the water.

Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters.

Never drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads. Water only 1 foot deep can float most automobiles.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to see flooded roads.

Enjoy the 64th Oregon Antique Show Annual event is set for March 29-30 OREGON, Ill. — The Oregon Woman’s Club is proud to announce its 64th annual antique show. Many changes have taken place during the past 60-plus years developing one of the premier antique shows in Northern Illinois. This year is no exception with the addition of new dealers (five states represented), it is shaping up to be another great event.

The Oregon Woman’s Club, a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, sponsors this show as a major fundraising event and uses the proceeds to help fund various community projects and charities.

As in past years, the show will be held at the Blackhawk Center Sports Arena, located on the Oregon public school campus. The facility offers ample parking, handicap accessibility and a huge area for the 52 Midwest antique dealers to display their merchandise for sale. Quality antiques from the early 1800s through the retro era of the 1950s includes all areas of collecting — furniture, glass, china, pottery, toys, primitives, textiles, jewelry, dolls, silver, decorator items and more. You will be amazed at the selection available. There will be items for all collecting tastes and budgets, for both the new and advanced collector.

“We like to think of it as comfort food for the eyes,” an event spokesperson said.

The food concession will be provided by the Chana United Methodist Ladies. The menu will include homemade chicken and noodles, sloppy joes and various other sandwiches, chips, beverages and a selection of desserts.

Mary Lou’s Crystal Repair from Joliet will be on hand both days to repair your damaged heirlooms while you wait.

On Sunday, Munda & Associates, Auctioneers & Appraisers, Freeport, will offer verbal appraisals of small treasures for $5 per item. Please supply photos of large items.

If a written appraisal is needed, discuss details with Munda & Associates.

Show times are Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Entry to the show is $6 per person, which is good for both days.

Door prizes will be awarded throughout the day, both days of the show.

Location is the Blackhawk Center, 1101 W. Jefferson St., one block south of Route 64 (Washington Street), Oregon.

Watch for directional signage.

For additional information on area lodging and attractions, visit www. discoveroregonillinois. com. For additional information about the show or becoming an exhibitor, call 815-732-2219 or 815652-2047.

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After the flood Take photographs of damage throughout the building and around the property. Assess stability of plaster and drywall. Bulging or swelling ceilings indicate damage.

Press upward on drywall ceilings. If nail heads appear, drywall will need to be re-nailed but can be saved.

Check foundation for any loose or missing blocks, bricks, stones or mortar.

Empty basement water at a rate of about one-third per day to avoid structural damage to foundation by rapid pressure change.

Clean and disinfect heating, air conditioning and ventilation ducts before use to avoid spread of airborne germs and mold spores. Use fans and sunlight to dry out interior spaces. Remove all wet carpets, curtains and fabrics. Allow to air dry completely.

For more home and family safety tips, visit www.protect-your-home. org.

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5 Perspective Friday, March 21, 2014 • The Tonica News • 5

The Editorial Page The Tonica News Sam R Fisher

Terri Simon

Publisher

Editor

Not so savvy You probably think I know a lot about technology, especially since I use a computer for about 90 percent of all my tasks at the newspapers and magazines we publish. We call it technologically savvy — those folks who know their way around all the bells and whistles a computer has to offer. But nothing could be further from the truth, and I don’t mind telling you so.

That’s right. While I’m better than what I used to be, I’m probably in the 30th percentile of computer knowledge — and that may be stretching it.

The technological world has passed me by, and even though I try like all get out to keep up, the brain only has so much room left for new concepts, Terri Simon programs and technology information.

It’s OK. I’m good with it because fortunately, I have surrounded myself with people who are much more “technologically savvy” than I am. It works out fairly well, since these computer-minded people share with me what I need to know — fully realizing I will forget how to perform those functions the next time I need them.

On the flip side, I’m not sure how we functioned before computers sat on our desks. Oh, I remember — and it wasn’t that long ago, but it’s still difficult to think how much our efficiency has improved with the arrival of computers. Actually, when I think back to our first computers in the newsroom — all gathered in a common place where you had to wait for one reporter to get finished with his/her story before you could jump on and type your story — we’ve come a long way, baby ... as the story goes.

My personal computer at home is another story. At home, I’m on my own to “experiment,” so to speak. I’m not above calling one of my colleagues at work to help me out of a jam, but by and large, I just keep pushing buttons until something works ... or until I get the system to a point where nothing works at all! I used to get worried about what I might do — what I might erase for all eternity, but now, I take it all with a grain of salt and just keep “experimenting.”

While it seems as if computers have been around forever, I was probably one of the last to actually take the jump and get my own personal computer at home. I’m like that, you know.

While I know there are always the folks who like to be the first to have the most new-fangled technology, I’m usually the last. My thinking is that by the time I get on board, they’ll have the kinks worked out, and it will be smooth sailing for this old girl.

It’s same with other electronic devices ...

Everyone on God’s green earth had a microwave before I broke down and bought one. By then the price had dropped considerably; the bells and whistles were much more advanced. It was very similar with my first VCR and then the DVD player. Everyone else had them for years before I jumped on the bandwagon.

And then there is the smartphone ... I’ve come to the realization that my first smartphone — the one I got long after everyone else had their smartphone — is just another gadget in my long list of electronic belongings that was created to make me feel not-so-smart. I’ve resigned myself to knowing I will never understand the ins and outs of this hand-held contraption, and that’s OK. I can call, text, email and check the weather, the stock market and my Facebook. Anything after that turns my smartphone into a dummy phone, but that’s OK. So what’s my point? Technology is only as good as the person who knows how to (or not how to) use it. For those of you out there like me who have some mental gaps, don’t get nutty.

In the scope of things, the technologically challenged in this world far outnumber the technologically savvy. Welcome to my world, my friends ...

The Tonica News Editor Terri Simon can be reached at news@tonicanews.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’s your favorite thing about recess?

“I like that I get to play with Amos Vincent. We play whatever he plays.

He’s a good kid.”

Odin Friwald, Lostant

“I like recess because I get to play with my friend Aiden. We play kickball.”

Amos Vincent, Lostant

“I like that people get to talk. I talk to my friends like Piper and Payton.”

Madelyn Missel, Lostant

“I like throwing basketballs. It’s like throwing basketballs through hoops. I play with Amos and Odin.”

Aiden Laweless, Lostant

“Basketball. I play with my sister Madelyn.”

Chasity Missel, Lostant

“Volleyball. I play with my friend Payton.”

Selena Breckenridge, Lostant

Death and taxes ... mostly taxes By now, it’s likely most of you have already filed your taxes, possibly receiving your refund or sending Uncle Sam more of your hard-earned paycheck. Others are getting ready for that last minute April 14 crunch to get them finished and in, so you don’t have time to consider just how much you’re paying.

How much you’re paying, of course, is dependent mostly on how much you make. The more money you make (theoretically), the more you pay in taxes.

However, almost as important is where you live. It’s not necessarily whether you live in an urban or rural area, although that also has a slight impact on what the government wants from your pocket. It’s what state. Each state has what’s called a “Tax Freedom Day.” The Tax Foundation has the definition for you ...

“Tax Freedom Day is the day that the average American has earned enough money (in theory) to pay off his or her total tax obligations for the year. The calculation used to determine this date assumes everyone in the nation works for eight hours a day beginning Jan. 1, and that every dollar

Ken Schroeder COMMENTARY earned is not spent.”

Basically, “Tax Freedom Day” is when you stop working for the government and start earning money for yourself.

The numbers haven’t been released for 2014 yet, so let’s look at 2013 to get an idea of when you start actually earning a paycheck. On average, the typical American taxpayer worked until April 18 last year — three days after your tax return was due — to pay off his tax obligations (not including sales or services taxes, of course.)

So how do we do locally? I have some good news, and I have some bad news.

The latest “Tax Freedom Day” occurred in Connecticut last year on May 13. That was followed by New York at May 6, and New Jersey on May 4. You can probably see the bad news coming now.

Who’s number four? Yep, that would be Illinois, Home of the

Unfunded Mandate. The average Illinois taxpayer has to wait until April 25 before the bacon he brings home stops going to Washington. That means 46 states are off the clock before we are. The first states earning their own paycheck are Louisiana and Mississippi, who get out from under on March 29.

As I mentioned, income is perhaps the greatest factor in how much you pay with the wealthier among us (again, in theory) paying more than the rest of us. Does the average person in Illinois make more than other states? No, but the people who own or work in the upper management of businesses based in Chicago certainly do. That skews the number up tremendously.

Therefore, it’s likely you’re done paying taxes before the uber-wealthy in the Windy City (again, in theory), a little more good news.

Filtered with a little more bad news: The Tax Foundation also reported unemployment dropped nationwide except in four states.

Yes, Illinois is one of them.

Ken Schroeder can be reached at news@tonicanews.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, March 21, 2014

Community PC Lady Panthers to host basketball clinic GRANVILLE — The Putnam County Lady Panthers will be hosting a basketball clinic for girls in the Grades 1-4 in the Putnam County Primary School gym on March 22 and 29 as well as April 5 and 12.

First- and second-grade sessions will be held from 9 to 9:45 a.m. while third-

and fourth-grade sessions will be from 10 to 10:45 a.m. There will be no costs to these sessions.

Classes will include instruction in the fundamentals of ball handling, passing, defense and shooting. Participants can come to one session or all four. No pre-registration is required.

THS Alumni dinner planned for Sept. 6 TONICA — The Tonica High School alumni dinner will be held Sept. 6 at the Oglesby Elks. Cocktails will start at 6 p.m. with dinner at 7 p.m. The tickets will be $25 each with checks payable to Tonica Alumni. Reservations with remittance should be sent to Mary

Ellen Goodbred, 2173 E. 675th Road, Tonica, IL 61370. Include the year graduated, if the class is celebrating a reunion and need special seating arrangements. Tonica Grade School graduates who have graduated from high school are also invited to attend.

Recruitment Day for Lostant Fire Department LOSTANT — The Lostant Community Volunteer Fire Department and Ambulance will have a Recruitment Day open house from 1 to 4 p.m.

April 12 at the fire department, 101 E. First St. Personnel will be on hand to answer any questions. The event will also include live demon-

strations. Food and soft drinks will be provided by the Lostant Cafe.

For more information, contact Gabriel Shull, training officer/recruitment and retention, at 815-8304040 or email gjshull@ gmail.com. Those interested must live or work in the Lostant Fire District to become a member.

Blood drive on March 31 TONICA — The next Red Cross bloodmobile will be from 2:30 to 6 p.m. March 31 at the Tonica American Legion, 901

LaSalle St., Tonica.

To make an appointment or for more information, call 800-733-2767 or visit redcrossblood.org.

Comets volleyball nears end of season LOSTANT — The Lostant Comets girls volleyball is closing in on the end of its season. They have had a great time this year with Stephanie Ziel as their coach. Also helping with the team are Austin Larson, an eighthgrade student, and Nicole Larson, head cook for Lostant School.

This year’s team includes three girls from eighth grade — Grace Desponett, Lindsey Maggio and Kindra Shawback; three girls from seventh grade — Jacki Wilson, Megan Wiesbrock and Lexi Lyons; one girl from sixth grade — Chelsie Shawback; one girl from fifth grade — Meleah Mertes; and

two girls from fourth grade — Sydney Miller

and Allison Harper. All of the girls have had a lot of

fun and played great this year.

‘Bye Bye Birdie’ coming to LPTHS Performances set for April 3-5 LASALLE — Tickets to this year’s LaSallePeru Township High School musical, “Bye Bye Birdie,” are now on sale. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors.

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on April 3-5 in Matthiessen Memorial Auditorium at LaSallePeru High School. Tickets will be on sale in the

auditorium box office during rehearsals from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturdays.

For more information regarding tickets, call 815-220-2703.

The cast includes T.R. Miller as Albert Peterson, Brittney Marx as Rosie Alvarez, Josh Reinhart as Conrad Birdie, Maggie McKinney as Kim MacAfee, Chandler Lourie as Mr. MacAfee, Reid Tomasson as Ran-

dolph MacAfee, Mackenzie Benning as Mrs. MacAfee, Nick Kennemer as Hugo Peabody, Lindsey Mayper as Mae Peterson, Abby Steinberg as Ursula Merkle, Abbi Colby as Gloria Rasputin, Abby Smith as Nancy, Kaitlyn Ernst as Margie Johnson, Matt Pehoski as the Mayor, Lisa Hallen as the Mayor’s wife, Riane Wrobleski as Mrs. Merkle, Lizzy Hicks as Alice, Madison Schaefer as Helen, Kenny Ksiazkiewicz as

Harvey Johnson, Natalie Pelzinski as Penelope, Adele Bonnet as Phyliss and an ensemble featuring Audrey Huettemann, Mary Cate Smith, Alexia Forrer, Amber Camp, Alicia Ellerbrock, Rachel Black, Taylor Siebert, Sarah Pozzi, Margaret Covert, Madison Loger, Anna Smith, Abby O’Malley, Olivia Rightmyer, Allison Washkowiak, Samantha Glassman, Jenessa Huebbe, Stephanie Bias and Maggie Braun.

TCOC announces scholarship opportunities Application deadline April 18 ROCK FALLS — The Tri-County Opportunities Council will offer at least 12 scholarships to income eligible students residing in the Tri-County Opportunities Council service area.

The scholarships are each worth up to $1,250 and have been made available by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic opportunity through its Community Services Block Grant.

Preference for the scholarships will be given to students wishing to pursue high demand careers or other growth occupations. Applicants of racial or ethnic minorities as well as previous scholarship recipients are encouraged to apply.

To be eligible for a scholarship, a student must meet the following criteria: the applicant must be a member of an income eligible family; they must be planning to attend an accredited Illinois post-

secondary educational institution during the fall of 2014; and they must be a resident of Bureau, Carroll, LaSalle, Lee, Marshall, Ogle, Putnam, Stark or Whiteside counties.

The deadline for applying is April 18.

For more information or to obtain an application form, visit the Tri-County Opportunities Council at 405 Emmons Ave., Rock Falls, IL 61071 or online at www.tcochelps.com.

Stage 212 will present ‘God’s Favorite’ Performances will be April 4-6 and April 11-13

Photo contributed

‘Footloose’ dancing its way onto PCHS stage next month Loralee Wilson as Vi Shaw along with Nathan Ward as the Rev. Shaw rehearse for the Putnam County High School spring musical “Footloose” which will be performed April 3, 4 and 5. Tickets are available by calling 815-882-2800, ext. 4. Adult tickets are $8 each; while students in grades K-8 and senior citizen tickets are $6 each. All high school students get in free.

LASALLE — Stage 212 has announced the cast for the spring 2014 production of “God’s Favorite,” a Neil Simon comedy. A modern retelling of the story of Job, “God’s Favorite” centers on Joe Benjamin, a successful businessman who has it all, including a demanding wife, frustrating children and colorful household employees. As if that weren’t enough, his problems are compounded when he is visited by a messenger on a mission to test Joe’s faith and report back to the Boss.

Included in the cast are Larry Kelsey as Joe, Kathy Hepner as Rose, Ryan Ziegler as David, Alyssa Plochocki as Rachel, Amalia Heiser as Sarah, Kelli Montgomery as Maddy, Nick Spolec as Morris and Ken Schroeder as Sidney.

Production staff includes director Dixie Schroeder, producer Rob Mellen, stage manager Carol Hartenbower, set construction foreman Mike Kreush, lead carpenter Chris Martyn, set designer Dan Martinkus, lighting designer/ operator Kyle Foley, sound operator Jessica Gray, prop coordinators Mary Toraason and Joan Eiberger and set construction crew Todd Harzheim, Matt Boehm, Scot Smigel and Alyssa Plochocki.

“God’s Favorite” will be presented April 4-6 and 11-13 at Stage 212, 700 First St., LaSalle. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinees begin at 2 p.m. Tickets will be available to the general public for $15 each beginning March 17. Box office hours are from 4 to 6 p.m.

Monday, from 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesday and from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Tickets may also be purchased online by visiting the Stage 212 website at www.stage212.org or reserved over the phone with Visa, MasterCard or Discover. Call 815-224-3025 for details.

“God’s Favorite” is produced by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.

Grief Recovery Group will meet March 26 at IVCH PERU — The Illinois Valley Community Hospital Grief Recovery Group will meet at 6:30 p.m. March 26 in Conference Room “C” on the fourth floor of Illinois Valley Community Hospital. The group allows persons who have recently suffered the loss of someone close to them to share their feelings and experiences with others who have also lost loved ones through death. The group meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. For more information, call Deacon Ray Fischer at 815-780-3426.

7 Spotlight Friday, March 21, 2014 • The Tonica News • 7

Serving the People of Tonica and the Surrounding Areas

Area Businesses Shop these area businesses and see how they can help you with your various needs!

815-442-8248

Quality Home Builders for Over 40 Years Our Carlton Plan is Priced at Only $74.00 per sq. ft.

Full Service Lumber Yard Offering outstanding quality & pricing on cabinets, windows, flooring, and all your building needs.

Straughn InSurance agency 308 Main St., P.O. Box 205 Lostant, IL 61334 (815) 368-3331 • FAX (815) 368-3332 www.straughninsuranceagency.com

Redeem this ad for a no obligation quote on your current life insurance or IRA program and receive a $20 gas card.

815-224-2879

1006 1st St. • LaSalle

McCONVILLE INSURANCE Frank McConville - Agent 200 South Peru Street • Tonica, IL 61342 (815) 442-3116

No Problem Pub Eat-In or Carry-Out • 442-3404 Wednesday - Tacos Friday - Fish Saturday - Chicken

ILLINI STATE BANK 230 S. LaSalle St., Tonica (815) 442-8211 206 S. Main St., Lostant (815) 368-3333 301 S. Columbia Ave., Oglesby (815) 883-8400 www.illinistatebank.com

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24 Hrs. Service • 815-442-3415

Grain & Grain Storage, Refined Fuels, Propane, Feed, Fertilizer, Crop Protection, Seed

TONICA, IL • 1-815-539-1084

C & H Electric & Construction

P.O. Box 68 • Tonica, IL 61370 OWNERS

Brian Claudnic Electric

Jeremy Hillyer Construction

Free Estimates

Mike Supan Jr. Linda Supan Michele Straughn

“You bend ‘em, we mend ‘em”

Auto Body Specialists Truck Toppers & Accessories

325 North 25th Road, Route 251 South of Peru Bus. 815-224-1506 • EmERgENcy: 815-252-0032

287280

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Have a gamer in your house?

Try Tonica Telephone’s high speed internet, and you won’t have this problem.

FasTer speeDs BeTTer service

Call Jackie and ask for details and availability – 815-442-9901

Tonica Telephone co.

Toncom long DisTance

8 History/Class 8 • The Tonica News • Friday, March 21, 2014

TGS brings in money for Jump Rope for Heart TONICA — Tonica Grade School physical education teacher Carrie Christman reported the 2014 Jump Rope for Heart total was $2,010.25.

Approximately 140 Tonica Grade School students in kindergarten through fifth grade participated in the event.

“To get ready for the event we practiced jumping rope and discussed

Library Corner

healthy life styles that included staying away from drugs, junk food and being couch potatoes,” Christman said.

During the event select classes were combined and during that time there were breaks taken for healthy snacks. This is the 15th year Tonica Grade School has participated in Jump Rope for Heart, Christman said.

Births Announced Corcoran Dale and Julee (Shinnick) Corcoran of Oglesby are the parents of a daughter, Evelyn Claire, born March 11 at St. Margaret’s Hospital in Spring Valley. She weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces and measured 20 1/2 inches in length. Maternal grandparents are Michael and Karen Shinnick and Peggy Shinnick. Paternal grandfather is Donald Corcoran.

Lostant — March 25, Families First, a statefunded 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 LaSalle — March 25, 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

Juergensen Cole Blythe and Lacey Juergensen of Peru are the parents of a son born March 9 at Illinois Valley Community Hospital in Peru.

••• Birth announcements can be emailed to news@putnamcountyrecord.com.

– Classifieds – General Terms and Policies The Tonica News reserves the right to classify correctly, edit, reject or cancel any advertisement at any time in accordance with its policy. All ads must be checked for errors by the advertiser, on the first day of publication. We will be responsible for the first incorrect insertion, and its liabilities shall be limited to the price on one insertion.

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

- 200 Employment 228 • Help Wanted LOSTANT LIBRARY seeking Part-time help 8 hours per month and fill in when needed. Apply at: 102 West 3rd Street, Lostant ************ HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL? Put your ad in for FREE Items $1,000 or less can run FREE for 1 time. Limit of 5 lines.

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

No commercial ads, firearms or animal sales.

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

228 • Help Wanted PROMOTE JOB OPENINGs We can help get your business fully staffed.

Call 815-875-4461 999 • Legal Notices CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LASALLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF ) RICHARD F. ) WOLLACK ) Deceased ) No. 14-P-18 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of Richard F. Wollack. Letters of Office were issued on February 19, 2014, to Kelli Ajdinoski, 1601 Eastview Ave., Danville, IL 61832 as Administrator whose attorney is John, Balestri, 149 Gooding Street, LaSalle, Illinois 61301.

Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of Court, LaSalle County Courthouse, Ottawa, Illinois 61350, or with the representative, or both, within 6 months from the date of issuance of letters and any claim not filed within that period is barred.

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

Dated this 21st day of February, 2014.

Attorney John Balestri Attorney for Estate 149 Gooding Street LaSalle, IL 61301 815-223-6600 Published in the Tonica News Mar. 7, 14 and 21, 2014.

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.

Tail-Waggers is an opportunity to read with therapy dogs and will be hosted at 6 p.m. on March 27. Bring your favorite adult and book to read with the therapy dog.

PCCA Activities March 26 — 10: 30 a.m., color eggs; 12:30 p.m., Alternative medicine/herbs/oils program by Steve Marcellis.

March 27 — Noon, birthday/anniversary day; 1 p.m., Hennepin cards.

March 28 — 12:30 p.m., Easter party.

March 29 — Closed for Good Friday.

999 • Legal Notices

NOTICE OF SALE of Property owned by the Village of Tonica and Invitation to Bid Thereon PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT the Board of Trustees of the Village of Tonica, Illinois, will receive sealed bids for the purchase, under the successful bid, of the fee simple interest in the following real property: Outlot three of the Original Town of Tonica excepting the south twenty (20) feet thereof, situated in LaSalle County, Illinois and subject to a water line easement to Village of Tonica which property is generally located at 207 South Peru St., Tonica, Illinois, and is currently vacant property.

Bids for the purchase of the aforesaid interest in the above described property are hereby invited and will be received by the Village Clerk at the Tonica Village Hall between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on the date above for the opening of bids. Said proposals shall be addressed to: Tonica Village Board of Trustees c/o Village Clerk of Tonica Tonica Village Hall P.O. Box 268 308 Uncas St. Tonica, Il 61370 and shall bear the legend ‘PROPOSAL –SALE OF REAL ESTATE, PERU ST. TONICA, ILLINOIS, and the name and address of the bidder.

All bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud at the regular meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Village of Tonica at 7:00 p.m. on April 21, 2014.

A contract may be awarded to the highest bidder whose bid is found to be in the best interests of the Village. The minimum bid amount is $9,000.00. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any informalities or irregularities in the bidding. The Board of Trustees further reserves the right to review and study any and all bids and to make a contract award within thirty days after the bids have been opened and publicly read.

Copies of the bidding documents may be obtained at the office of the Village Clerk.

Heather Sherman, Village Clerk BIDS Acquiring bids for mowing for the Village of Tonica. Inquire @ Village Hall 815-442-3104. All bids must be turned in

by Monday, March 24th, 2014, by 11am.

Published in the Tonica News Mar. 21, 2014.

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

TONICA TOWN-WIDE GARAGE SALES Will be Friday, May 2nd & Saturday, May 3rd $5 to be on map.

Call 815-883-1552 deadline to get on map is April 25.

School Menus or yogurt, toast, Lostant Grade School cereal fruit, juice, milk.

Breakfast March 24 — Biscuit and gravy, cereal, milk, juice, yogurt.

March 25 — Donuts, cereal, milk, juice, yogurt.

March 26 — Eggs and bacon, cereal, milk, juice, yogurt.

March 27 — Pigs in a blanket, cereal, milk, juice, yogurt.

March 28 — Breakfast pizza, cereal, milk, juice, yogurt.

Lunch March 24 — Hot dogs, chips, baked beans, peaches, milk.

March 25 — Turkey sub, fries, pineapple, green beans, milk.

March 26 — Chicken nuggets, mashed potatoes, corn, pears, milk.

March 27 — Pasta, lettuce salad, peas, pears, bread, butter, milk.

March 28 — Pizza, lettuce salad, corn, mixed fruit, milk.

Tonica Grade School Breakfast March 24 — Pancake and sausage on a stick, cereal or yogurt, toast, fruit, juice, milk.

March 25 — Pancakes,

999 • Legal Notices Published in the Tonica News Mar. 14, 21 and 28, 2014.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LASALLE COUNTY, OTTAWA, ILLINOIS PROBATE DIVISION ESTATE OF ) DIANA M. GALLUP, ) Deceased. ) No. 2014 - P - 40 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of DIANA M. GALLUP of Oglesby, Illinois.

Letters of Office were issued on March 4, 2014 to Rita Alafogiannis as Executor and Representative of 436 Clark Street, Oglesby, IL 61348 whose Attorney is Lisa Olivero of Olivero & Olivero Law Offices, 1611 Fifth Street, Peru, IL 61354-2603.

Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Circuit Clerk, Probate Division, in the LaSalle County Courthouse, 119 W. Madison Street, Ottawa, IL 61350, or with the Representative, or both, within six (6) months from the date of the first publication of this Notice. If a claim notice is mailed or delivered personally to a creditor of the decedent, the creditor’s claim may be filed within three (3) months from the date of mailing or delivery of this notice, or within six (6) months from the date of first publication, whichever is later. Any claim not filed within the time allowed is barred.

Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Representative and to the Attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed with the Clerk of the Court and proof of such mailing or delivery must be filed with the Clerk.

ANDREW F. SKOOG CIRCUIT CLERK – LASALLE COUNTY LASALLE COUNTY COURTHOUSE 119 WEST MADISON STREET OTTAWA, IL 61350 ATTORNEY LISA OLIVERO Olivero & Olivero Law Offices Attorney for the Estate 1611 Fifth Street Peru, IL 61354-2603 Phone (815) 224-2030

Notice Hope TownsHip

March 26 — Scrambled eggs, cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

March 27 — French toast sticks, cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Lunch March 24 — Breaded pork patty, bun, mashed potatoes, fruit sidekick, margarine cup, pickles, milk.

March 25 — Chicken nuggets, baby carrots, raisins, bread, vanilla pudding, ranch dressing, ketchup, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, milk.

March 26 — TGS lunchables, ham, cheese, crackers or chicken caesar salad, celery, carrots, romaine lettuce, pears, salad dressing, milk.

March 27 — Corn dog nuggets, green beans, carrots, peaches, ketchup, mustard, ranch dressing, milk.

March 28 — Super nachos, taco meat, cheese sauce, corn chips or chef salad, refried beans, shredded lettuce, apple slices, salsa, salad dressings, milk.

999 • Legal Notices Fax (815) 224-2900 Published in the Tonica News Mar. 14, 21 and 28, 2014.

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA STATE OF ILLINOS COUNTY OF LASALLE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ) MELANIA C. KREWER ) Deceased ) No. 14-P-13 NOTICE TO HEIRS AND LEGATEES WHOSE NAMES OR ADDRESSES ARE UNKNOWN AND CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of Melania C. Krewer. Letters of Office were issued on February 19, 2014, to Elaine Karczewski, 1455 Lafayette Street, LaSalle, IL whose attorney is John Balestri, 149 Gooding Street, LaSalle, Illinois 61301.

Notice is given to any heirs or legatees whose names or addresses are not stated in the petition for letters of office, that an order entered by the Court on February 19, 2014 admitting the decedent’s will to probate. Within 42 days after the date of the order of admission you may file a petition with the Court to require proof of the will by testimony of the witnesses to the will in open court or other evidence, as provided in Section 6-21 of the Probate Act of 1975 (755 ILCS 5/6-21). You also have the right under Section 8-1 of the Probate Act of 1975 (755 ILCS 5/8-1) to contest the validity of the will be filing a petition with the Court within 6 months after admission of the will to probate.

Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Circuit Clerk, Probate Division, Downtown Courthouse, Ottawa, Illinois 61350, or with the representative, or both, on or before August 22, 2014, or, if a claim notice is mailed or delivered personally to a creditor of the decendent, on or before the date stated in that notice. Any claim not filed within the time allowed is barred.

Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney within ten days after it has been filed.

Published in the Tonica News Mar. 7, 14 and 21, 2014.

For SALE In TonIca, ILLInoIs

3,000 sq. ft. for only $69,000!

6 ton weight limits are in effect on all Township roads until further notice.

Ron Judd Road Commissioner

815-488-8456

Bob Folty • Box 41, Tonica, IL 61370