TON-05-19-2017

Volume 143 No. 24

Friday, May 19, 2017

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If you clean it, will they come?

By Zachary J. Pratt news@tonicanews.com

TONICA — Four years ago, Tonica Village President Kevin Sluder wanted Tonica to purchase a piece of land to clean it up and sell it to someone who might develop it; now he has come back to that suggestion.

The land in which he is referring has been deemed not clean by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which has kept prospective buyers away.

Sluder had talked to someone at Casey’s General Store about the location, but nothing will happen there because the EPA has not cleared it.

With the land going undeveloped, Sluder has returned to

his suggestion that Tonica purchase and clean it.

“I think we have a better chance cleaning it up than waiting for the owner,” Sluder said. “That corner is sitting desolate, and we’re losing revenue.”

Board members asked if it would be possible to receive letters of intent, so they can know someone will buy the land if the village cleans it up; Sluder said he would contact people regarding intent with the board’s approval.

“I’m not trying to make a buck off the land. I just want someone in there so the town grows,” Sluder said.

In related discussion, the board talked about where Tonica should set up its new TIF district. The focus is on including the corner of 20th and 251, where the old Village Inn used to be.

“The corner is the main objective. We really want that corner to be developed,” Sluder said, Sluder said his ultimate goal would be to develop the north end of town, as he sees growth potential there.

Mowing in Tonica

Also at the May 15 board meeting, the village decided to bring mowing back in-house, rather than hiring the work out, as it has done previously.

The village is looking to lease a mower, to make sure it suits the necessary purposes, before making a purchase.

“We’ve spent $4-5,000 hiring out the mowing because the

Tonica Page 2

A return to nature Restoration event at Dixon Waterfowl Refuge is seeking volunteers

By Dave Cook

news@tonicanews.com

​HENNEPIN — The majority of the vast Midwestern prairie is gone, replaced by miles and miles of corn and soybean fields or urban development. Many habitat restoration projects, such as the Dixon Waterfowl Refuge, work to help restore this vital habitat to plant and animal species suffering from this massive loss.

The Wetlands Initiative (TWI), founded in 1994, is a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring the wetlands of the Midwest to improve water quality; increase wildlife habitat and biodiversity; and reduce flood damage.

According to its website, more than 90 percent of the wetlands present 200 years ago in Illinois are now drained, tiled, dammed or levied. With so many wetlands already lost, TWI focuses on restoring rather than simply preserving their remnants.

An upcoming opportunity sponsored by TWI at the Dixon Waterfowl Refuge at Hennepin and Hopper Lakes on June 3 will provide volunteers an up-close view of a restoration in progress.

The event will run from 9 a.m. to noon, with all equipment and snacks provided by TWI.

Refuge Page 2

Floods/fencing get Tonica’s attention

By Zachary J. Pratt news@tonicanews.com

Tonica News photo/Dave Cook

Anticipating a victory Tonica sixth-grader Noah Rietgraf gave it his all as he ran toward the finish line at the track meet held at Putnam County High School on May 2. The Braves team had a good season with Emily Strehl setting a school record in the hurdles as well as being part of the record setting 4x100 relay team. Strehl also set Vermilion Conference records in the hurdles and long jump and placed seventh at state in hurdles.

Vol. 143 No. 24 One Section - 12 Pages

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TONICA — Recent rains have caused a flood of problems around Tonica, with some areas still experiencing standing water.

At the board’s May 15 meeting, Tonica Trustee Michael Supan Jr, said he knows of three homeowners who are experiencing this standing water along Second Street and Circle Drive.

“They’ve got 6 inches of water,” he said. “They want the water out of there.”

To village President Kevin Sluder’s recollection, the area in question has always had a problem with water, but Supan indicated the current situation is new. Supan also said the issue is on a right of way, putting it in the village’s jurisdiction.

“There’s water standing there; it’s been a week, 10 days,” Supan said. “They want it corrected, and I don’t blame them.”

There was agreement the issues should be rectified, and not just for the streets in question.

Bob Anderson noted a myriad of issues throughout the

Floods/fencing Page 2

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2 • The Tonica News • Friday, May 19, 2017

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.

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Refuge

Floods/fencing From Page 1

According to TWI’s development and communications assistant Julie Erdmann, there have been many volunteer events over the past 15 years at the Dixon Waterfowl Refuge, but this will only be the second planting event held on the 283-acre Hickory Hollow tract recently added to the refuge.

“Last year’s inaugural event at the Hickory Hollow tract covered about 40 acres. This year’s plug planting will cover about 80 acres and will include the planting of more than 30 native prairie species,” Erdmann said.

The restoration of this area will create a contiguous, high-quality prairie, savanna and woodland system within the southeastern portion of the refuge.

When the land was first acquired it was corn and soybean fields. This year the early signs of a returning natural habitat are becoming more visible after TWI’s native planting efforts.

“To see the native seedlings we planted last year in bloom is very exciting. These include the Prairie Violets, Heart-leaf Golden Alexander and Shooting Star,” she said.

Those blooming wildflowers are an early sign of habitat restoration. Once the right plants are available to provide nectar and seeds, the other links in nature’s chain will begin to appear.

“We’re seeing monarchs attracted to the area from the milkweed planting we’ve done, and we expect the developing habitat to also attract many bird species as well, such as the Grasshopper Sparrow, Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Meadowlark and Baltimore Oriole,” Erdmann said.

The Hickory Hollow tract is not yet open to the public, so the plug planting volunteer day is a rare opportunity for individuals to see and be part of an ongoing habitat restoration.

Erdmann said while the seedlings are grown at a variety of locations since TWI uses multiple vendors, the majority of them are grown in Illinois, with many coming from Country Road Greenhouses located in Rochelle.

Volunteers will meet at 9 a.m. by the observation tower, and they should wear appropriate clothing for fieldwork, such as long pants and closed-toe shoes. Hats, sunscreen and bug spray are also recommended. Children aged 16 or younger must be accompanied by a parent or chaperone.

Volunteers should email twi@wetlands-initiative.org f planning to attend. For more information, visit www.wetlands-initiative.org/dixon-location-and-visiting.

Tonica From Page 1

guys have been working on the sewer plant, been kind of busy,” Sluder said as he asked the board how they wanted to proceed.

The question was whether to hire the work out again or to bring it back under the village’s control, and in case of the latter, whether to lease a mower or outright buy one.

The discussing began with two dissenting thoughts on the matter, voiced by Bob Folty, who thought Tonica should hire out one more year, and Michael Supan Jr., who suggested the village bring the work in-house.

Folty’s reasoning followed the same cause for hiring out previously, but rather than building the sewer plant, he focused on the issue of learning its operations.

“When we’re going into the sewer plant, I think our guys should be devoting their time and energy to that,” Folty said.

However, Supan indicated he had been told the village should be able to have someone handle the mowing, and given the results of the

From Page 1

town, suggesting the village work to fix those systematically.

“There are problems everywhere,” Sluder agreed, though he explained some of those problems are on private property and outside the town’s control.

With these flooding problems around town, Sluder believes a major part of the situation to be the saturation of the soil, given a week of rain followed by a downpour.

Even areas Tonica has recently worked on have had issues containing the flood, as indicated by a manhole cover he saw while everything was occurring.

“That thing was doing a jig,” he said.

“That’s a 24-inch tile. And we just did all that.

“That manhole cover was doing a dance,” he continued. “It was dancing. And that was brand new, clean.”

Nevertheless, he agreed the village should do what it can to help the situations.

“It is going to happen when you get that much rain, but if we can help it, I’m all for it,” he said.

The line of discussion had originated when Lemrise noted that Second Street was of particular interest, as it had needed to be closed because of the floods. One issue he pointed put was that the area has a small culvert, which bottlenecks the water flow.

“We’re definitely going to need a bigger culvert, but then you also need more depth,” Lemrise said.

Lemrise had also noticed a structure had appeared along Second Street which he did not recognize.

“I don’t know what it is, looks like a culvert,” Lemrise said, suggesting it might be a tile. He indicated the structure runs parallel to Second Street.

Also at the meeting, the board took a look at a few recent occurrences, which has called into question Tonica’s ordinance on fences.

“Apparently fences have been popping up all over the place, and it’s starting to be a

previous year, he thought that would be the best solution.

“We tried it. We had two different guys mowing,” Supan said. “One guy held up his part of the deal, and the other guy didn’t.”

Supan recounted the poor upkeep at the ball diamond, saying the ball would get lost in the grass. Someone other than the person hired for the job had to fix it.

“And the parents were coming in while they were cleaning it up,” Supan said. “You talk about embarrassing for the town of Tonica.”

The idea of having the village itself handle the work garnered more support; a motion to hire the work out received no second.

“Nothing against the guys that are doing it now, but I think we should keep it in-house,” Bob Anderson said.

The board decided leasing a mower for a year would allow the village to decide if it met every need, at which point it could purchase it or move on to a different one.

Popcorn

Tonica is popping into action after the baseball

problem,” Sluder said.

The current ordinance says a fence can be erected along the property line, but some instances have caused question as to whether this should be changed.

“There is a current issue right now where one guy put up a fence, and his neighbor wasn’t happy about it,” Sluder said.

Part of the problem seems to be the location of the fence.

“He didn’t realize the property line was so close,” Sluder said. “And now he has a fence 2 feet from his house.”

Village Engineer Jack Kusek pointed out another detail to consider: “It’s also difficult to put up a fence on the property line without trespassing.”

This might not be an issue if people talk over the fence plan with their neighbors, but it was noted such conversations have become more difficult to conduct, as either party might not care to do so.

“Unfortunately there’s no common courtesy anymore with some neighbors,” said Trustee Tod Anderson.

One suggested solution was to change how far from the property line the fence must be situated. Rather than allowing the structure to be placed atop the line, the village could require it be located farther back.

“Other towns have 18 inches; some have 2 feet off the property line to allow a mower to go through,” Sluder said.

While this might solve problems of people not wanting to mow their grass along their neighbor’s fence, board members noted it could introduce a new problem, in which people might not want to mow their own grass on the other side.

Furthermore, it was mentioned if existing fences were to be grandfathered in, that could cause resentment.

The village is leaving the situation be, as the path forward is uncertain, even to the point where it is unknown whether any changes should be made.

“I think we just had a couple of instances that have popped up,” said Bob Folty, suggesting the overall situation will likely resolve itself.

association’s popcorn machine broke.

After the untimely demise of the Tonica Baseball Association’s popcorn machine, the village was asked if it could help purchase a new one; instead, the board has opted to provide all the financing.

Sluder said the association had maintained the machine for “probably 10 years now,” but that it ultimately could hold on no longer.

He said the Tonica Baseball Association is currently using the grade school’s popcorn machine.

However, the association will not be able to use the school’s machine indefinitely, especially during such times as the school needs it.

“That is their biggest source of income,” Sluder said, noting the loss of the machine would provide a detrimental effect for the association.

Village Attorney Robert Steele suggested sending a monetary contribution.

“I think I’d give them the money; let them buy it: make a donation,” Steele said.

The machines run for around $700 to $800, according to what Sluder was told.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 • The Tonica News • 3

NCI develops new website Tonica News photo/Dave Cook

April showers, May flowers The Illinois Valley Herb Guild held its annual Garden Faire at St. Bede on May 13. Featuring more than 50 varieties of herbs for culinary, medicinal, aromatic and landscaping use, some were uncommon varieties. The event also included a range of yard decor, crafts, gift items and a bake sale.

Tonica Community Blood Drive results TONICA — Held at the Tonica United Methodist Church on May 8, the most recent community-wide blood drive was successful in attracting 51 donors who gave 43 units of blood.

The students of Tonica Grade School assisted in encouraging donors, and the third-grade class brought in the most.

The class will receive a pizza party, sponsored by the Illini State Bank, as their reward.

There were also several donors who have given multiple gallons over the years including Douglas Grieve with 22 gallons; Lynn Anderson and Ruth Kreiser

Herbst with 19; Alan Stremlau with 14; Lloyd Vogel with 13 gallons; Cleone King, nine gallons; Richard Karun and Ron Walgenbach, both with seven gallons; Rita Ford, six gallons; Kaye Perry, four gallons; Rob Russell with three gallons; and Tracy Daugherty and Brad Lutz with two gallons each.

The next American Red Cross blood drive will be held from 1 to 6 p.m. on July 3 at the Tonica United Methodist Church and walk-ins are welcome.

For more information or to schedule an appointment call Joyce Obermiller at 815-442-8211.

Police reports for other alcohol-related offenses were ISP releases April recorded.

Troopers issued a total of 455 traffic activity report citations and 703 written warnings to LASALLE — Illinois State Police District 17 announced during the month of April troopers handled 1,428 calls for service and assistance.

Of these calls, 145 were to help motorists whose vehicles were disabled on area highways.

Criminal activities during the month included no arrests on outstanding warrants and five arrests for other criminal offenses.

Traffic enforcement activities resulted in 200 drivers arrested for speeding and 67 cited for seat belt violations.

Driving under the influence arrests totaled 14, while eight apprehensions

motorists during the month.

Troopers and weight inspectors issued nine citations for overweight violations.

District 17 troopers handled 45 traffic crashes within the three county area of LaSalle, Bureau and Putnam.

There was one fatal crash handled by District 17 troopers.

LaSalle County Sheriff

At 5:03 p.m. on May 2, deputies cited a male juvenile of Streator for speeding 72 mph in a 55 mph zone and a civil complaint for less than 10 grams of cannabis following a traffic stop on Route 18 near East Seventh Road in Richland Township.

IVCC Board reorganizes OGLESBY — Jane Goetz of Ottawa was elected chair at a special re-organizational meeting of the Illinois Valley Community College board April 24.

Goetz was elected to a six-year term in 2013.

Trustees also elected Everett Solon of Streator vice chair and David Mallery of Hennepin secretary.

Board attorney Walter J. Zukowski, treasurer Cheryl Roelfsema, and secretary to the board Jeanne Hayden were all re-appointed.

Goetz made the following committee appointments: Jay McCracken of Hennepin as the Illinois Community College Trustees Association representative and

herself as the alternate; closed session minutes, McCracken, chair, and Amy Sipovic of Ottawa and Melissa Olivero of Peru; facilities, Mallery chair, Olivero and Angie Stevenson of Ottawa; audit finance, Solon chair, Mallery and McCracken; and planning: Sipovic chair, Solon and Stevenson.

Totals from the canvass of the April 4 election in which Stevenson, Mallery and McCracken were elected to six-year terms, were: Stevenson 12,054, Mallery 11,468, McCracken 10,912 and Francis (Frank) Zeller of Peru 9,462.

Also, the board voted to keep meeting times at 6:30 p.m. the second Thursday of each month.

Marketing the region for new jobs reached a critical new milestone with the debut of the new North Central Illinois Economic Development Corporation (NCI) website, www.NorthCentralIllinois.org.

Promoting “Where Eagles Fly – Business Profits Soar,” the new professionally-designed website went live two weeks ago and is totally focused on the needs and wants of the business investor. The website makes sure that business prospects know “WHERE we are,” “WHAT opportunities exist in the region, and “WHO to contact for assistance.”

NCI is only 8 months old and is the only organization aggressively marketing locational advantages of Bureau, LaSalle and Putnam counties for new business investment, new jobs, and new tax revenue. This website provides for effective marketing to thousands of executives, prospects, consultants, developers, and brokers.

It is a major part of a continuing campaign that includes target advertising, digital marketing, personal visits, marketing events, cooperative marketing with allies, trade shows, and mission trips.

After reviewing proposals from experienced professional economic development website companies throughout the

nation, the NCI Board contracted with web designer Accrisoft from North Carolina. This company’s extensive portfolio includes Minneapolis, Charlotte, Oklahoma City, Palm Beach, Southwest Michigan, Corpus Christi and the International Economic Development Council.

With the objective to meet the demands of business investors, the website provides comprehensive information on industrial real estate, site selection data standards, demographics, community data, incentives and economic development services. The site is also mobile friendly. Highlights of the website include an interactive data map of North Central Illinois, a searchable database of full-service industrial sites and available buildings, a link to the state database, and quick access to comprehensive demographics and business data.

“Everything we do must demonstrate that industrial, technology and office businesses will make more profits in North Central Illinois,” said Ivan Baker, NCI president.

“The website is professionally meeting the needs of business prospects,” said Jim Riley, NCI chairman. “It sets us apart and gives our new marketing effort the necessary kick start to compete globally.”

Audubon Society’s Gremel Wildlife Sanctuary set for dedication SPRINGFIELD/AMBOY — The Illinois Audubon Society will dedicate the Gremel Wildlife Sanctuary, a legacy project of the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, on June 4. Purchased for its significant ecological value, the 395-acre sanctuary provides habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals and offers opportunities for continued site-based research and education through a partnership with Augustana College.

The $2.1 million purchase was made possible through a land acquisition grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation (Chicago), long-time Society member Russell Gremel, and Illinois Audubon’s land acquisition fund.

“I hope that generations of young land stewards and bird enthusiasts will visit and enjoy the sanctuary,” said Russell.

“We continue to be impressed with the thought and care that these dedicated volunteers and the staff of Illinois Audubon Society put into their work at nearby Amboy Marsh,” said Dennis O’Brien, executive director of the foundation. “It is

clear the Society takes the promise of permanent protection very seriously, and the foundation looks forward to a similar commitment to the care of the natural habitat at Gremel Wildlife Sanctuary.”

The event will begin at 1 p.m. with presentations taking place at the Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve followed by guided trail hikes at the Gremel Wildlife Sanctuary. Driving directions are available on the website at illinoisaudubon.org or by calling the Illinois Audubon Society Office at 217544-2473. Public is invited to attend.

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 Society is an independent, member supported, not-for-profit, statewide organization. Founded in 1897, the Society is Illinois’ oldest private conservation organization with 2,200 members, 18 chapters and 19 affiliate groups. The Illinois Audubon Society has protected 3,900 acres by investing $11 million to protect land and water throughout Illinois.

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4 • The Tonica News • Friday, May 19, 2017

The Editorial Page The Tonica News Sam R Fisher

Terri Simon

Publisher

Editor

Compassion, mercy is the heart of God For those who have visited a nursing home or a medical care facility, you know what I mean when I refer to these places as difficult and uncomfortable. The sights and sounds are difficult for our emotions to process and explains why many would rather avoid them altogether.

I have heard Billy people say they do not like hospitals, Holland nursing homes or funerals, and this is COMMENTARY usually because they provoke us to think more deeply. When we look around and witness how individuals are coping with aging and health problems, it is a normal response to live in denial as the old saying reminds us, “out of sight – out of mind.” However, there is really no need to dread or live in fear about our future because whatever we may go through, God reminds us in Psalm 27 that He will always be with us and take care of us.

My good friend Ian, who is a highly intelligent and humorous newspaper editor in Texas, shared a story with me recently about his experiences with nursing homes. He said, many years ago, when he was still living in England, he was the chairman of his hometown’s carnival association. This was a nonprofit committee that organized an annual festival, which included an elaborate parade that featured the annual carnival queen and her court of two princesses. These beautiful young women were the winners of a beauty pageant during a gala the previous fall and were now ready to go on tour. As a part of the carnival promotion, the association would take these girls to surrounding cities and have them participate in other parades and public appearances, thereby optimizing its fundraising potential for local charities and other worthy causes.

Ian tells how it was easy to enthuse the royal court to attend these festivities as they would quickly make friends with local celebrities along with the opportunity to meet swarms of potential suitors along the way. On each official outing, the carnival queen wore a white wedding-style ballgown and crystal crown, and the two princesses wore colored ball gowns and crystal tiaras.

To all the children they met, they were, indeed, touched with the magic of fairy-tale royalty. However, with all of the attention and star status, there was one stop on the tour that was not considered glamorous.

They were required to visit a facility for physically and mentally disabled patients.

My friend found himself trying to persuade these “rock stars” to devote their morning on Christmas Day to spending time with individuals whose severe handicaps would break your heart. Every Christmas holiday it was a part of his duty to collect the girls and chauffeur them to the hospital, and with absolutely no hint of his inner apprehension, convince them that what they were about to do would forever change their perspective of life.

Each year, a new group of celebrities would enter the hospital with trepidation, obviously intent on getting the ordeal over and done with. However, surprisingly, these young ladies would stay at individual bedsides far longer than anyone would have expected, hugging and chatting with children who could hardly speak.

The mask of pride and pomp quickly melted into a sobering realization that many innocent individuals live each day with misery and suffering. As they embraced the elderly, you could sense the power of compassion that was creating waves of gratitude and humility in everyone present. The girls always thanked everyone later for giving them the opportunity not just to spread some fairy-tale magic to the chronically unfortunate, but also to realize just how blessed they were.

Members of the clergy are more likely to be seen in prisons and health care facilities, but we do not need to be an ordained minister to brighten someone’s day. It is precious to develop friendships with these individuals, and I know there are many lonely people who would simply love to have someone visit and talk with them.

I understand it is a sacrifice to pull away from our busy schedule, but according to Matthew Chapter 26, this is an act of compassion that reveals the heart of God. Billy Holland lives in Central Kentucky with his wife Cheryl, where he is a Christian author, outreach minister and community chaplain. To learn more visit billyhollandministries.com.

Luck-things I would guess if you are over 50, or so, there were certain “luckthings” instilled in you as a kid. For instance, just walking to school could be pretty chancy. (You know, the route that was miles uphill both coming and going, and was usually covered with snow up to your waist.)

Once I found out, if I stepped on a crack, I’d break my mother’s back, or if I stepped in a hole I’d break her sugar bowl; I was busy dodging all those perils each time I ventured out. I went around with my head down for a few years before I decided to take my chances with the sugar bowl and ignored the holes in the sidewalk. Amazingly, when I got home our sugar bowl was still intact.

As hard as I tried, I just couldn’t miss every crack in those sidewalks.

Feeling bad and worrying each time I mis-stepped was driving me nuts.

So, I did it – I ignored the cracks.

There again, in spite of my carelessness, I found my mother up, about, and feeling fine. It took a little longer to feel real safe on that one, but eventually, I relaxed and could walk to school without hopping all over in an attempt to avoid disaster.

Then, there was the bad luck if you find yourself and your walking partner separated by a pole, post, sign, or any taller object. It’s amazing how many times this happens, but there’s a remedy for this. Simply say, “Bread and Butter!” and you’re good – bad luck cancelled.

And, with your first sighting of a robin, spring has arrived. New hope is in the air - that is if you lick your

Earlene Campbell COMMENTARY thumb, press it in the palm of your other hand, and smack it with your fist. Doing this will assure good luck until the first robin of the next spring.

Folks, I am about to reveal a secret about me even Jerry didn’t know until now. A couple of those childhood luck-things have stuck with me (blush). I still say “Bread and Butter,” when separated from my walking partner by an object taller than us. Sometimes I brazenly say it out loud, but often it’s whispered, or just thought. This one Jerry knew.

And, it was the middle of March this year before the first robin revealed his little beak at me. It was a cold, snowy day while I was driving on Thompson Street, with my leather mittens on. I am praying that my saliva filtered through the mitten as I drove with my forearms while stamping it in. The problem is, I never have been sure if it was only the first robin, or if it was the first robin(s). So, to assure my good luck throughout the coming year, I just slyly lick, press, and stamp until they become too numerous to keep up with. This one Jerry didn’t know.

My secret divulged after 56 years of marriage. How’s that for sly?

Topping off my “luck” spiel, is my Tennessee-born feline. You know,

my little diluted calico, “Foxy Roxi.”

After bringing her home to live with us, I Googled “calico cats.” Google information claims a traditional calico is black, gold and white – a diluted calico is gray, soft gold, and white. It turns out they are goodluck charms. Any household with one living in it is blessed with the luck of the Chinese, where this legend began. Go to any Oriental restaurant and you probably will see a plastic calico cat sitting by the register waving his paw at you.

The way I see it, Roxi winding up in our home is really a God-thing. I’m hoping that the blessings aren’t also diluted.

Now, before you go getting judgmental about my idiosyncrasies, just think — who doesn’t vie for the longer half of the wishbone each time turkey and/or chicken is served in your home? And don’t forget the four-leaf-clover, rabbit’s foot, or that lucky charm you’re carrying. And, how many of you wives let their husbands see you on your wedding day before you said your I Dos? Oh yeah!

In my wise-old-age, I don’t really believe in luck. I believe they are actually “God things.” But, it doesn’t hurt to help Him along a little.

P.S. – Jerry still can’t read the newspaper any better through a diluted Roxi, than if she was traditional.

Earlene Campbell lives by the FROG motto — Fully Rely On God. She resides in Princeton and can be reached at earlenecampbell@rocketmail.com.

Term limits now. Here’s how.

If there is no comprehensive fullyear state budget by the May 31 end of legislative session in Springfield, I am seriously considering creation of an Illinois political action committee to be called “Throw the Bums Out.” The stated purpose would be to defeat all state legislators, of both parties, as well as Gov. Bruce Rauner.

For three years now, the governor and lawmakers have blatantly failed in their constitutional responsibility to adopt an annual state budget, the fundamental task of any government, or business, for that matter.

As a result, the horrendous pile of unpaid bills and wreckage in higher education and elsewhere have also piled onto our state’s near-laughingstock reputation across the nation for corruption and government dysfunction.

This is how the parlous situation has come about: After election in 2014, several students of state politics recommended to Republican Gov.-elect Rauner he could deal with entrenched Democrat Speaker of the House Michael Madigan in addressing the state’s problems, as each needed the other to get anything done.

Instead, Rauner determined it was more important to destroy Madigan and his near-dictatorial power once and for all, which is a legitimate political objective.

The Rauner strategy: Withhold support for a state budget until Madigan and Democrats agreed to his business-friendly reform ideas.

Madigan would ultimately have to cave, the thinking went, because lack of a budget would hurt low-income and vulnerable populations important to many Democratic lawmakers.

If Madigan refused, then ultimately a number of Democratic House members would defect in order to see the services to their people restored.

The strategy obviously hasn’t worked. Thus the stalemate.

Jim Nowlan COMMENTARY

By now, all parties involved are embarrassed, but unwilling to be the first to concede anything, which would be a sign of grave political weakness.

But the situation is now intolerable, unforgivable.

Action (or lack of action in this case) should have consequences.

Their failure should be punished, not rewarded.

So, I am dead serious about my Throw the Bums Out (TTBO) initiative.

I am not naïve about what I propose. Years ago, I ran political campaigns for U.S. Senate and presidential campaigns for a living, and was successful, if I do say so. For example, the Washington Post book on the 1980 presidential election called my efforts that year, which took little known Illinois congressman John B. Anderson into the thick of that year’s race, “brilliant.”

This year, a couple of buddies and I created a political action committee to elect candidates to the board of our troubled public community college and oust the board president.

It was a piece of cake. We raised money, created the Facebook page, advertised in print and on the Internet, flooded newspapers in the nine-county district with letters to the editor, even did some door-todoor.

We elected our candidates and ejected the board president by a two-to-one margin.

The TTBO campaign would be about two orders of magnitude greater than the college effort, yet cut from the same cloth.

My point is this. With a creative, well-designed campaign plan, TTBO might just captivate the imagination of an angry electorate, snowball, and make a big difference. What a marvelous, constructive grassroots celebration of democracy during our great state’s bicentennial.

There are a number of excellent legislators; many are friends of mine.

But it’s too complicated to pick and choose, and all are complicit in the failure.

The big challenge would be in knocking off Speaker Mike Madigan, who operates from a true rotten borough (district drawn by him to be impregnable), though the demographics are changing on him. But it can be done.

Gov. Bruce Rauner has demanded term limits. We can fulfill his demand this coming year, at the ballot box. This would be better than the blunt instrument of a constitutional amendment, which in any case wouldn’t affect any of the present crew that has failed us so miserably.

I can envision campaign buttons right now: simple brilliant red TTBO letters on a white background.

Perfect, because nobody would know the acronym, at first anyway.

“What does that stand for?” people would ask you. You would tell them, and eight out of 10, I’d bet, would ask you how they could get a button.

Gad, but I am having serious fun just thinking about this. The Springfield crowd had better enact a budget by May 31— for their own sake.

If you think my idea might have merit, let me know at jnowlan3@ gmail.com. Responses will serve as a test of interest.

TTBO. Jim Nowlan of Toulon served two terms in the Illinois House and worked under three governors. He co-wrote “Fixing Illinois: Politics and Policy in the Prairie State.” Contact Nowlan at jnowlan3@gmail.com.

Friday, May 19, 2017 • The Tonica News • 5

Community Children’s theater workshop at Stage 212 LASALLE — Stage 212 in LaSalle will offer a summer workshop, running June 5-9, for students entering grades 2 through 9 in the fall.

Under the guidance of instructor Sophie Smigel, students will have the opportunity to dabble in many creative drama activities. They will strengthen their imagination, develop

physicality and learn to work with others creatively by engaging in improv, role-playing, pantomime, movement, expression, voice exercises and more.

The cost of the workshop is $60 per student. Pre-registration is required. For a registration form and more information, call 815-2243025, or register online at www.stage212.org.

30th annual M-P Antique Association Show is June 10-11 LACON — Fans of days gone by will want to be sure to mark June 10 and 11 on their calendars as the members of the Marshall-Putnam Antique Association will be gathering in Lacon for their 30th annual show.

It will be held at Johnson’s Grove Park located at 700 S. Prairie St. and will feature Oliver tractors and Fairbanks-Morse engines.

On June 10, an auction will be held at 2 p.m.. and a tractor parade will be held at 1 p.m. on both days. A kiddie tractor pull will be held following the parade on June 11.

Flea market spaces are available for both days and registration is required.

Free camping is available for exhibitors, although no hook-ups are available.

Other attractions include free admission and parking, food, the Illinois Wheat Weavers, kettle corn, threshing, train rides, rug weaving, corn shelling, a 50/50 drawing, a Case 50 horsepower steam traction engine shingle mill and a Minneapolis-Moline steam traction engine.

For more information call 815-223-1877 or email mpaa_info@yahoo.com.

Conservation workshop offered for all teachers HENRY — “Teach Me to Be a Good Steward of the Land,” a summer workshop offered by University of Illinois Extension Marshall-Putnam Ag in the Classroom and Marshall Putnam Soil and Water, will be presented from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 13, and is for all classroom teachers. It will be held at the Marshall-Putnam Extension office at 509 Front St. in Henry.

This workshop is designed to familiarize teachers with current conservation issues and provide them with numerous activities and resources that can be used in their classrooms. A first-hand look at a variety of conservation efforts will make

up the afternoon field trip. Guest speakers Emily Rogier, Kevin Bennett and Rick Seibert will share their knowledge of concerns and efforts dealing with soil and water conservation.

Six CPDU credits are provided by Regional Office of Education 35.

Registrations can be made by calling the M-P Extension office at 309-364-2356 or register online at http:// web.extension.illinois. edu/blmp/. There is a $10 registration fee made payable to Marshall Putnam Extension.

For more information, call University of Illinois Extension, Bureau-LaSalle-Marshall-Putnam Unit at 309-364-2356.

Fishing expo on May 20 PERU — The 19th annual kid’s free fishing expo will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 20, at Baker Lake in Peru.

The event will feature a free beginning fishing “how-to” clinic for boys and girls ages 6 and up, with sessions starting every 15 minutes; free fishing games with prizes; casting games; live fishing displays; free fishing literature and door prizes; tips from pro-

fessional fisherman and more. Bait will be provided.

A limited number of fishing poles will be available for loan. There will also be food, drinks and snacks.

For more information, contact Mark Dudek at 815-220-3901, Tom Wall at 815-223-3671 or visit www. better-fishing-assoc.org.

The lake is located on Airport Road north of Shooting Park Road and one-half mile south of Wenzel Road.

Photo contributed

April Braves of the Month Tonica Grade School students Wyatt Ficek (from left), Ava Lambert and Sadie Leffelman were named Braves of the Month for April.

SRRC receives birthday surprise OTTAWA — Starved Rock Regional Center for Therapy & Child Development (formerly Easter Seals LBC) recently received a $10,000 bequest from the estate of the late Della and William Sickley.

The Sickleys were regular contributors to the organization who provided speech therapy services to their son in the 1950s.

“Both of my parents were very generous people and always contributed to the Easter Seals drives.

It was a favorite charity for them, since they felt the services my brother received in speech therapy had helped him speak clearly,” said Mary Campbell, daughter of Della and William Sickley.

Starved Rock Regional Center for Therapy and Child Development (SRRC) has been providing services in this area since 1947. That is when “LaSalle County Chapter for Crippled Children” was begun by Streator business leader Henry M. Light. The agency eventually changed its name to Easter Seals of LaSalle and Bureau Counties and then in 2015 to Starved Rock Regional Center for Therapy and Child Development. The services have also changed several times to better meet the needs of the community. However, the core purpose of improving the well-being of children has never changed.

The donation will be used to address much needed building repairs, so the organization can continue to provide care to more than 500 children in LaSalle and Bureau counties.

“We are beyond touched that Della and William felt so strongly about the services we provided their son that they remembered us all these years. The support of the community is absolutely crucial to the existence of the organization,” said Tracy Beattie, president/CEO for SRRC. “We couldn’t be more thankful for this generous gift.”

SRRC is a non-profit agency that serves over 500 children per year. Services include free screenings for

children up to 3 years old and speech, developmental and physical therapy to children throughout the Starved Rock area. SRRC also has a child care center for children with and without special needs in Ottawa, and toddler classes in Ottawa, Princeton and Peru.

Area high school students experience legislature through Rezin’s Youth Advisory Council SPRINGFIELD — Dozens of area high school students participated in a unique, hands-on experience in state government on May 2, as part of state Sen. Sue Rezin’s (R-Morris) Youth Advisory Council.

“The future of our state and country depends on those who are in school now,” Rezin said. “We must get young people more involved in the legislative process and show them the importance of public policy. That’s why I was so excited to host my Youth Advisory Council.

These students took initiative, were inquisitive, and full of energy. It’s refreshing to see so many students who are engaged in the political process and who want to be leaders, so they can make their communities, this state, and our country even better.”

Rezin hosted the all-day Youth Advisory Council, talking with high school students from Coal City High School, LaSalle-Peru, Morris, St. Bede Acad-

emy, Streator, Wilmington, Woodland, Hall, Newark, and Ottawa about Illinois government and how the Legislature operates. She shared stories of her experiences in the Statehouse, discussed what it takes to

become a legislator and why public policy is important, and answered questions.

The students visited the Capitol and spent time on the Senate floor. They heard from a lobbyist, other state senators, and government

leaders. Students also met Gov. Bruce Rauner and spoke to him for about 20 minutes in his Capitol office.

The students, who were selected by their teachers to

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6 • The Tonica News • Friday, May 19, 2017

Volunteer training held OGLESBY — A volunteer training, “Unboxing the Best Practices in 4-H,” was held for 4-H volunteers in Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall and Putnam counties this past April at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby.

Judy Bingman, state 4-H media specialist, visited to provide inspiration and

ideas for the volunteers to take back to their 4-H clubs.

The volunteers were given lesson plans, activities and giveaways to use with the 4-H members. Training topics included Cloverbuds, community service, STEM, marketing and leadership. A special appreciation lunch was served at the conclusion of the program.

Rezin

said John Moore from Hall High School. “It was great to meet other students who have an interest in politics.”

“I participated because I was interested in learning how things work in Springfield,” said Brandon DeJong from Hall High School. “I really enjoyed the debate.

Hearing all the different points of view was interesting because it was things I never thought of before.”

Rezin will host another session this fall in the 38th Senate District.

From Page 5 participate, later conducted a mock bill discussion and hearing on issues important to them.

“I am looking at possibly going into law or government,” said Luke Wamhoff from St. Bede Academy. “So, this is helping me guide my path.”

“I gained debating skills and how to present an argument from this experience,”

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Menus Lunch Lostant Grade School May 22 — Chef’s choice, milk.

Breakfast May 22 — Pancakes and syrup, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, milk.

May 23 — Fried eggs, sausage and toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, milk.

May 24 — French toast and syrup, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, milk.

May 25 — Muffin, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, milk.

May 26 — Scrambled eggs, hash browns and sausage, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, milk.

Lunch May 22 — Chicken fajitas, Spanish rice, green beans, milk.

May 23 — Turkey, corn, fruit cocktail, bread, milk.

May 24 — Barbecue pork on bun, chips, pears, milk.

May 25 — Sloppy joes, cheesy potatoes, mandarin oranges, milk.

May 26 — Hamburgers, chips, fruit roll-up, milk (Field Day).

Tonica Grade School Breakfast May 22 — Chef’s choice or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk.

May 23 — Chef’s choice or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk.

May 24 — Chef’s choice or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk.

May 25 — Chef’s choice or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk.

May 23 — School picnic — Hamburger or hot dog, cheese slice, bun, baked beans, carrots, fruit, chips, ice cream bars, milk.

May 24 — Chef’s choice, milk.

May 25 — Chef’s choice, milk.

Putnam County Community Center May 22 — Hot dog on bun, macaroni and cheese, cauliflower/broccoli, diced peaches.

May 23 — Meatloaf, scalloped potatoes, mixed vegetables, roll and butter, pears, dessert.

May 24 — Barbecue on bun, coleslaw, three-bean salad, grapes, dessert.

May 25 — Beef and noodles, tossed salad with toppings, bread and butter, cantaloupe, dessert.

May 26 — Cheese/sausage pizza, breadsticks, lettuce salad with toppings, green beans, gelatin with fruit.

Bread, butter, fruit juice and 2% milk are available with meals. For reservations, call 800-757-4579 24 hours in advance of the day’s meal. The menu is subject to change.

Meals are available to senior citizens 60 plus at no cost, but donations are appreciated. The meal program is partly funded by donations, so they have a suggested donation of $5 per meal.

Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m.

––––––––––– Classifieds –––– General Terms and Policies 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 Need To Get The Word Out? We Can Help You Get It Out Right Here!

Give Us A Call 815-875-4461

- 200 Employment 228 • Help Wanted TONICA CCSD #79 is looking for a short term, 5th GRADE SUBSTITUTE TEACHER for the beginning of the 2017 - 2018 school year. A qualified candidate should possess an Illinois Professional Educator License with the elementary education endorsement.

Send a letter of interest and copy of certificate to: Mr. Charles Schneider at 535 N 1981st Road, Tonica, IL 61370. Any questions call 815-442-3420

HARD TO FIND THAT RIGHT PERSON FOR THAT JOB OPENING? The Tonica News Classified can reach just the right person you are looking for to fill that job opening. Call 815-875-4461

232 • Business Opportunities ********** THE CLASSIFIED Advertising Department of the Tonica News Does not have the opportunity to fully investigate the credibility of each advertiser appearing within these columns. If an offer sounds “too good to be true” it probably is.

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

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

The Tonica News Classifieds makes every effort to qualify these charges for the reader.

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

NEED MORE INCOME? Check out each issue of the Classifieds. You might find opportunities to earn that extra income!

- 400 Merchandise 450 • Under $1000 Bicycles: two 20" folding bicycles, 12 speed, like new condition. Paid $165, asking $100 each or both for $150. 815-866-2452 New Bridal bouquetblush & pastel pinks including bridesmaid wrist arrangement & 5 boutonnière's $25 815-875-3257 Swing with cushions $150 or best offer; patio set with cushions and umbrella $200 or best offer. Call 815-875-1339 Heirloom tomato plants, $1 each.

Call 815-878-0780

450 • Under $1000

460 • Garage Sales

Craftsman 10” radial arm saw $275; Craftsman 5 amp drill, $30; Craftsman 1/2” reversible drill, $25.

Call 815-454-2219

PRINCETON 704 Eastmor Drive. Friday, May 19, 8am-5pm; Saturday, May 20, 8am-1pm.

Rain Date: May 26 and May 27

Gold Gym 450 treadmill $50; under cabinet range hood non vented $25; Almond double bowl sink $50. Call 815-664-2236 Large collection of early woodworking magazines & books (1200). Asking $250. Will separate and or trade. 815-866-6328 Like new sleeping bag, $50; patio table, no chairs, $25; electric medical bed, over-the-bed table, $180. 815-488-2934 ************ 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!

460 • Garage Sales MORE ON 34 2 DAY GARAGE SALE PRINCETON Bureau County Fairgrounds (Rt 6 & 34). Friday, Saturday, June 16 & 17: 8am - ?

Inside & Outside selling spaces available.

Call Kathy (after 3pm) 815-866-3606 or see Bureaucountyfair.com PRINCETON 614 North Church Street. Friday, May 19, 9am-4pm; Saturday, May 20, 9am-Noon.

Huge Men's Sale (garage full). Tools, drills, doors, garden items etc. Plus Women's misc. household items.

Rain date: 5-26 & 27

WALNUT 14365-2850 N Avenue. Friday, May 19, 9am-5pm; Saturday, May 20, 8am-3pm.

KEVIN LARKEY ESTATE SALE 6 piece oak bedroom set, TV in wood cabinet, safe “new in box”. Living room, office furniture, camping, fishing items, kitchen items, refrigerator, microwave, tools, John Deere items, pictures, life jackets, movies, lots of Harley-Davidson clothing & items, household items.

Too much to list.

EVERYTHING MUST GO! SHEFIELD 333 East Walnut. Friday, May 19, 8am5pm; Saturday, May 20, 8am-3pm.

ESTATE SALE. Antiques, household furniture, décor, 17' aluminum canoe, misc. items.

Everything Must Go! TISKILWA (Schindel Residence) 1 mile north of Tiskilwa on PrincetonTiskilwa Blacktop. Thursday, June 1, 1 pm-7 pm; Friday, June 2, 7 am-4 pm; Saturday, June 3, 7 am-noon.

HUGE MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE Women's clothes (size large and extra-large); Girls' clothes (many brand names-like new), size 14Junior Miss. A large variety of knickknacks, small appliances & household items. Other items include: curio cabinet, deer stands, and a boat topper canvas. Homemade cookies! Something for everyone. Much more, come see!

ADVERTISE GARAGE SALES OR YARD SALES! The Tonica News Classifieds can promote your garage sale or yard sale to let everyone know about the treasures you have for sale. Just call 815-875-4461 and we’ll help you “Clean Up!”

Photo contributed

Bank donation funds scholarships Heartland Bank and Trust Co. retail managers Michele King of Peru (from left), Nick Nosalik of Oglesby and Brenda Trump of Princeton made their annual $2,500 donation recently to Illinois Valley Community College Foundation President O.J. Stoutner and IVCC President Jerry Corcoran. The gift funds five, $500 Heartland Bank Community Enhancement Scholarships for students pursuing careers in business, finance, education, nursing and technology. They must also demonstrate community involvement outside the classroom. “Heartland’s investment in IVCC provides opportunities for future professionals and future civic leaders,” said Corcoran. “They are a true community bank.”

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

For questions, call 815-875-4461.

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LASALLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF ) BETTY L. WAGNER, ) DECEASED. ) 2017-P-79 PUBLICATION FOR CLAIMS CLAIM NOTICE Estate of BETTY L. WAGNER, Deceased.

Notice is given of the death of BETTY L. WAGNER of Ottawa, Illinois. Letters of office were issued on May 2, 2017, to DONALD L. WAGNER, 1103 N. 2509th Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350, whose attorney is Gerald M. Hunter, Ltd., 129 W. Walnut Street, Oglesby, IL 61348.

Claims against the estate may be filed with the office of the Circuit Clerk, Probate Division, LaSalle County Courthouse, Downtown Courthouse, Ottawa, IL 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.

Greg Vaccaro Clerk of the 13th Judicial Circuit Court Ottawa, Illinois Published in the Tonica News May 12, 19 and 26, 2017.

NUMBER 79, LASALLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS TO AMEND THE FY 2017 BUDGET PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Community Consolidated School District Number 79, LaSalle County, Illinois (the “District”), will hold a public hearing on the 21st day of June, 2017, at 6:45 p.m. The hearing will be held in the Media Center at the Tonica Grade School, 535 North 1981 Road, Tonica, Illinois. The purpose of the hearing will be to review the proposed amended FY 2017 budget and receive public comment. The budget is available for inspection in the District Office between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. when the district is open for business. Action is intended to be taken during the Regular Board Meeting on the 21st Day of June, 2017 By order of the President of the Board of Education of Community Consolidated School District Number 79, LaSalle County, Illinois.

DATED the 19th day of May, 2017.

Julie Rietgraf; Secretary, Board of Education Community Consolidated School District Number 79, LaSalle County, Illinois

Published in the Tonica News May 19, 2017.

resentative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed.

Greg Vaccaro Clerk of the 13th Judicial Circuit Court Ottawa, Illinois Published in the Tonica News May 19, 26 and June 2, 2017.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING THE INTENT OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF COMMUNITY CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LASALLE COUNTY, OTTAWA, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF ) CORRADO ) USSEGLIO, ) DECEASED. ) NO. 2017-P-91 PUBLICATION FOR CLAIMS CLAIM NOTICE Estate ofCORRADO USSEGLIO, Deceased.

Notice is given of the death of CORRADO USSEGLIO of Oglesby, Illinois. Letters of office were issued on May 11, 2017, to Aida Falassi, 314 N. Kenosha Avenue, Oglesby, IL 61348 and Edith Jean Castelli, 327 E. Florence Street, Oglesby, IL 61348, as Co-Executrixes, whose attorney is Gerald M. Hunter, Ltd., 129 W. Walnut Street, Oglesby, IL 61348.

Claims against the estate may be filed with the office of the Circuit Clerk, Probate Division, LaSalle County Courthouse, Downtown Courthouse, Ottawa, IL 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 rep-

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TOWNSHIP BUDGET Notice is hereby given that a Tentative Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for the Town of Eden in the County of LaSalle, State of Illinois, for the fiscal year beginning April 1, 2018, and ending March 31, 2019, will be on file and conveniently available for public inspection at the Township Building, Tonica, IL, from and after 9:00 o’clock a.m., 15th day of May 2017.

Notice is further given hereby that a public hearing on said Budget and Appropriation Ordinance will be held at 2:30 o’clock p.m., 31st day, May 2017 at Tonica, IL, in this Eden District and that final hearing and action on this ordinance will be taken at a meeting to be held at the Township Building at 7:00 o’clock p.m., 13th day of June, 2017.

Dated May 11, 2017.

Daniel Arkels, Supervisor Trudy L. Ploch, Clerk Published in the Tonica News May 19, 2017.

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Friday, May 19, 2017 • The Tonica News • 9

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CLASS OF 2017!

LaSalle-Peru High School

Isabella Brooker

Ian Ellis

Samantha Forrest

Rachel Huska

Taylor Johnson

Tea Lamboley

Amy Lund

Amber Schiffbauer

Not pictured: Brennan Thompson

Jonathan Siemers

Reilly Sluder

McKayla Urbanowski

Lexi-Anna Verda

Harrison Wilmot

www.ivcc.edu www.iv www w.iv w .ivcc.edu 2016 Helen Taylor Scholars are Rayna Martinson, Mendota salutatorian, left front; Elizabeth Griffin, La Moille valedictorian; Martha Hoffman, Earlville valedictorian; (back left) Erika Zimmerlein, La Moille salutatorian; Tess Kopp, Bureau Valley salutatorian; and Rion Schulz, Mendota valedictorian.

Unavailable for the photo were DePue’s Selena Campos, valedictorian, and Adrian Perez, salutatorian.

Summer and Fall Registration Underway

They say …

The area’s brightest students go away to college

SM-PR3130348-0519

We say …

Many of the district’s top high school graduates choose IVCC first

In the past nine years, 84 of the region’s valedictorians, salutatorians and those finishing in the top two percent of their class picked IVCC for quality instruction, first-class facilities, cost and convenience.

Friday, May 19, 2017 • The Tonica News • 11

Lostant Grade School

Nicholas Cabal

Devin Forrest

Bailey Rockey

Parker Witzman

James Givens

Grant Harper

Alexis Hawthorne

Jordan Ladson

Meleah Mertes

Katelynn Missel

We’re so Proud of you 2017 Graduates!

STRAUGHN INSURANCE AGENCY

308 Main St., P.O. Box 205 Lostant, IL 61334 815-368-3331 • FAX 815-368-3332

SM-PR3130395-0519

BROS. GRAIN 300 North West Walnut St. • Rutland, IL 815-863-5114 or 815-863-5014 • www.ruffrail.com

duanestraughn@yahoo.com www.straughninsuranceagency.com

Class of

2017

Tonica Lumber Company 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.

SM-PR3130374-0519

815-442-8248

Quality Home Builders for Over 40 Years

Tonica Telephone & Internet 815-442-9901 • www.tonicacom.net

12 • The Tonica News • Friday, May 19, 2017

Tonica Grade School

Hank Blauvelt

Hannah Burcar

Nathan Carlson

Kyra Cooling

Brice Fundell

Brendan Funk

Sage Gallik

Aiden Hallett

Cole Haynes

Jonathan Hillyer

Jonathan Johnson

Easton Koudelka

Claire Leffelman

Gabriel Limberg

Jacob Marcinkus

Landen Miller

Rylan Poole

Savanna Rietgraf

Faith Rutgens

Caden Sluder

Alaina Stasiak

Taylor Sterchi

Claire Stillwell

Brianna Strehl

McKenzie Yarger

CLASS OF 2017

SM-PR3130383-0519

Dr. Rhonda Dr. Eric Anderson Marty-Anderson

339-6165 Rt. #71 • Standard, IL

TRI-COUNTY AUTO SALES

MARTY CHIROPRACTIC

815.368.3421

Corner of Rt. 18 & 251, Lostant, IL • Exit 41 on I-39

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2017!

Auto Body Specialists Truck Toppers & Accessories FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

“You bend ‘em, we mend ‘em”

SM-PR3130385-0519

SM-PR3130343-0519

Onward & Upward Graduates!

Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Saturday 8:00 - 11:00 a.m.

325 North 25th Road • Peru, Illinois • 815-224-1506

Great Job 2015 2017 Graduates!

DeVine Floral (815) 442-3415 24/7 Service Service •• Free Free Estimates Estimates •• towncountryservices.com towncountryservices.com 24/7

A Company Owned by Supan’s Wheels, Inc.

Designs, Gifts & Tanning 110 N. Columbia Avenue, Oglesby 616 Grant Street, Granville

• Personal Service • Elegant Style Winning Designs • Award Memorable Designs

815-883-3373 815-339-2400

Mon.-Fri. 9-5 • Sat. 9-1 Mon.-Fri. 7-6 • Sat. 8-3