Issuu

Volume 141 No. 31

Friday, July 10, 2015

Single Copy Cost 50¢

Appraiser reprimanded in local lawsuit Appraiser Mark Pomykacz fined $10,000 By Shannon Serpette news@tonicanews.com

New Jersey real estate appraiser Mark Pomykacz was recently reprimanded

and fined by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation for an appraisal he prepared of the Marquis Energy ethanol production plant in Hennepin. That

appraisal, paid for by Illinois Valley Community College, was heatedly disputed by Marquis Energy CEO Mark Marquis during a lawsuit which was filed in April 2011 by IVCC against Putnam County, Putnam County Clerk Dan Kuhn, Putnam County Treasurer Kevin Kunkel and Marquis Energy LLC.

The lawsuit, which cost Putnam County more than $250,000 and IVCC in the neighborhood of $700,000, was officially over on April 16, after an agreed dismissal was approved in court, allowing IVCC to voluntarily dismiss its own lawsuit. “In the lawsuit, IVCC asserted the Marquis

Energy LLC ethanol plant wrongfully received a real estate tax abatement and requested reimbursement of the tax dollars that were allegedly lost. The abatement was based on a resolution adopted by IVCC to participate in the Bureau Putnam County Enterprise Zone. Putnam County, county clerk Dan Kuhn

and county treasurer Kevin Kunkel have maintained throughout the proceedings the abatement was proper,” a press release issued by the Putnam County State’s Attorney’s Office on May 15 stated. Pomykacz was reprimanded and fined $10,000

Appraiser Page 3

Supreme Court OKs same-sex marriage By Terri Simon

tsimon@tonicanews.com

On Friday, June 26, the U.S. Supreme Court declared same-sex couples have the right to marry anywhere in the United States. The decision came after decades of issues and litigation over gay marriage and gay rights. At the time of the historic decision, gay and lesbian couples were already allowed to marry in 36 states, plus the District of Columbia. The Supreme Court’s ruling on June 26 causes the remaining 14 states — Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky,

Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, most of Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Tennessee and Texas — to stop their bans on samesex marriages. After the announcement was handed down from the Supreme Court, President Barack Obama immediately tweeted the following: “Today is a big step in our march toward equality. Gay and lesbian couples now have the right to marry, just like anyone else. #LoveWins.” Later at the White House, Obama applauded the decision and called it

Equality Page 2

Driving safety takes a turn

With the summer heat comes new vehicle concerns By Zita Henneberry news@tonicanews.com

While driving safely is always important, especially with children out and about during the summer months, vehicle safety takes a slight turn in the summer heat. “Heatstroke can occur when a child is left unattended in a parked vehicle. Never leave children alone in the car — not even for a few minutes or with the engine running,” said the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHSTA) in their 2015 summer driving safety Vol. 141 No. 21 One Section - 8 Pages

tips. The NHSTA found temperatures inside the vehicle escalate very quickly. An area police chief said humidity and rising temperatures can create head inside a vehicle that quickly rises to 90 to 100 degrees or hotter. According to the NHSTA, this can happen even with a window rolled down. The agency said heatstroke inside the vehicle is particularly dangerous, because a child’s body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult’s body.

Safety Page 2

Tonica News photo/Dave Cook

A cool drink of water George Olesen of Tonica takes a refreshing drink from the hose while playing in his backyard as his brother, Soren, waits for his turn.

2 Local 2 • The Tonica News • Friday, July 10, 2015

Seeking Sources

Safety

(USPS 633340) Published every Friday Entered at Tonica Post Office as Periodical Mail $22 In LaSalle County $25 Outside of LaSalle County

Contact Publisher Sam Fisher sfisher@tonicanews.com Editor Terri Simon tsimon@tonicanews.com

Email to:

news@tonicanews.com. Photos should be sent as an attachment. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Tonica News, P.O. Box 340, Princeton, IL 61356

Illinois Press IVERSARY 150TH ANN

2015 Member

Vehicle safety checklist

From Page 1

Where in the world is The Tonica News? Are you planning a vacation or holiday trip? Don’t forget to take along a copy of the The Tonica News. Once you get to your destination, have someone snap a photo of you holding the newspaper, and then send the photo to us along with pertinent information about who is in the photo and where you are. We’ll be happy to share your photo with other Tonica News readers, your friends, family and neighbors. Email your photo and information to news@tonicanews.com. You can also drop it by our office in Tonica.

Association 1865-2015

Area officials said children are oftentimes left alone in vehicles alone, especially when adults just plan to make a quick trip into a store or shopping mall. Those same officials say their officers monitor those areas constantly, especially on hotter days/months. Police encourage anyone and everyone to call the police immediately if a child has been left alone in a vehicle, even with the windows rolled down, and to do so immediately, since seconds and minutes really matter. “Even when children are not inside a vehicle, it can be dangerous for them,” the NHSTA said. Area officials always asks the public to be mindful of children out and about during the summer months, particularly around children on bicycles. Children riding their bicycles are not always mindful of traffic and will dart in and out of traffic or around vehicles. The NHSTA explained children are often oblivious to cars and traffic when running around and playing outside. Especially with blind spots, drivers need to be extra cautious when driving this summer. The larger the vehicle, the larger the blind-spot, and the more aware the driver needs to be. “Before you back out of a driveway or parking spot, prevent back overs by walking around your vehicle to check for children running and playing,” the NHSTA said. However, a person’s general awareness can often be hindered by summer heat. Proper air conditioning checks can be especially important for many adults. The NHSTA advises the air conditioner be properly checked and maintained, particularly before any long summer road trips. “Lack of air conditioning on a hot summer day affects people who are in poor health or are sensitive to heat,” the NHSTA said.

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Equality

Tires — (Air pressure, tread wear, spare). Check your vehicle’s tire inflation pressure at least once a month; when your tires are cold (they haven’t been driven on for three hours or more) — and don’t forget to check your spare, if your vehicle is equipped with one. The correct pressure for your tires is listed on a label on the driver’s door pillar or door frame or in the vehicle owner’s manual — the correct pressure for your vehicle is NOT the number listed on the tire itself. A tire doesn’t have to be punctured to lose air. All tires naturally lose some air over time. In fact, under-inflation is the leading cause of tire failure. Belts and hoses — (Condition and fittings). Look under the hood and inspect all belts and hoses to make sure there are no signs of bulges, blisters, cracks or cuts in the rubber. High summer temperatures accelerate the rate at which rubber belts and hoses degrade, so it’s best to replace them now if they show signs of obvious wear. While you’re at it, check all hose connections to make sure they’re secure. Wiper blades — (Wear and tear on both sides). After the heavy toll imposed by winter storms and spring rains, windshield wipers may need to be replaced. Like rubber belts and hoses, wiper blades are vulnerable to the summer heat. Examine your blades for signs of wear and tear. If they aren’t in top condition, invest in new ones before you go. Cooling system — (Coolant level and servicing). The radiator in your vehicle needs water and antifreeze (coolant) to keep your engine functioning properly. When your car hasn’t been running and the engine is completely cool, carefully check your coolant level to make sure the reservoir is full. In addition, if your coolant is clear, looks rusty or has particles floating in it, it is time to have your cooling system flushed and refilled. If your coolant looks sludgy or oily, immediately take your vehicle to a mechanic. Fluid levels — (Oil, brake, transmission, power steering and windshield washer fluids). Check your vehicle’s oil level periodically. As with coolant, if it’s time or even nearly time to have the oil changed, now would be a good time to do it. In addition, check the following fluid levels: brake, automatic transmission or clutch, power steering and windshield washer fluid. Make sure each reservoir is full; if you see any signs of fluid leakage, take your vehicle in to be serviced. Lights — (Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, interior lights, and trailer lights). See and be seen! Make sure all the lights on your vehicle are in working order. Check your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers and interior lights. Towing a trailer? Be sure to also check your trailer, including brake lights and turn signals. Trailer light connection failure is a common problem and a serious safety hazard. Air conditioning — Check A/C performance before traveling. Lack of air conditioning on a hot summer day affects people who are in poor health or are sensitive to heat, such as children and older adults. Source: National Highway Safety Traffic Administration Summer Tips 2015.

From Page 1 “justice that arrives like a thunderbolt.” He said the decision confirmed the principle that “all Americans are created equal.” The Supreme Court’s decision was a 5-4 vote. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Antonin Scalia, Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas cast the four no votes. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote the 28-page decision. Justices Stephen Breyer, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor completed the majority vote with Kennedy. “No union is more profound than marriage,” Kennedy wrote, according to several accounts of the decision. Those people who have asked for the right to marry “reveal that they seek not to denigrate marriage but rather to live their lives,

or honor their spouses’ memory, joined by its bond,” Kennedy said. While the four justices who voted against the action each wrote opinions that explained their views, collectively they believe the states and their respective constituents should decide the marriage question. “This court is not a legislature. Whether same-sex marriage is a good idea should be of no concern to us,” Chief Justice John Roberts wrote. “If you are among the many Americans — of whatever sexual orientation — who favor expanding same-sex marriage, by all means celebrate today’s decision. But do not celebrate the Constitution. It had nothing to do with it.” The Supreme Court’s decision will not become law immediately because the court allows about three weeks for those who want to ask the court to reconsider.

Local reaction to the Supreme Court’s decision By Terri Simon

and

Dave Cook

news@tonicanews.com

Same-sex marriages in Illinois have been legally recognized since former Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn signed a law on Nov. 20, 2013. That law took effect on June 1, 2014. Prior to the legalization of same-sex marriages, Quinn had signed legislation to establish civil unions on Jan. 31, 2011, and that law became effective on June 1, 2011. That legislation allowed same-sex and opposite-sex couples to form a civil union which the state would recognize that would be similar to legal relationships in other jurisdictions. While the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on Friday, June 26, made same-sex marriages legal in all 50 states, several accounts of the ruling also mention the challenges of the court’s 5-4 decision and how it relates to religious liberties. Of the four U.S. Supreme Court justices who voted no, they basically focus on three particular issues which could present challenges and political issues: 1. Gay adoption; 2. The tax-exempt status of religious entities that wish to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation; and 3. The obligation of religious entities and/or individual to recognize and/or perform same-sex marriages. The Tonica News contacted five different churches and/or their pastors on Monday, June 29. Of those five churches, none returned telephone calls or were available to comment to the Tonica News by press time.

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3 Obit Records Friday, July 10, 2015 • The Tonica News • 3

University of Illinois Extension presents ‘Careers in Ag’ program OTTAWA — The University of Illinois Extension will offer a “Careers in Ag” youth education program for 4-H members in sixth, seventh and eighth grades. This program, which will be taught by local FFA members, will give 4-H members the chance to investigate careers in agriculture, find out more about themselves, prepare a resume and learn job searching skills, create and cultivate skills in teamwork, leadership, and goal-setting, and create

bonds with area 4-H and FFA members. This program was created to fill two needs in the community — create a better understanding of careers in agriculture, and establish a connection between local 4-H and FFA organizations. This program will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, at the LaSalle County Extension Office at 1698 N. 31st Road in Ottawa. The cost to participate is $10 per participant and includes

lunch, snacks, workshop materials, and important leadership, educational and workforce preparation education. The registration deadline is 4 p.m. Wednesday, July 15. Call 815-433-0707, email Molly Novotney at novotne2@illinois.edu or stop by the LaSalle County Extension Office. Space is limited. Online registration is available at web.extension.illinois.edu/blmp/. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate call 815-433-0707.

Accident on Fourth of July TONICA — At 8:02 p.m. Saturday, July 4, the Tonica Fire Department was called out for a two-vehicle accident on Route 251 and North 20th Road.

Tonica responded with a rescue-pumper, rescue truck and ambulance. Three people were transported to Illinois Valley Community Hospital with

non-life threatening injuries. Oglesby Ambulance was called for a mutual ambulance. LaSalle County Police investigated the accident.

Illini Valley Realtors present awards OGLESBY — The Illini Valley Association of Realtors annual awards banquet was recently held at Deer Park Country Club in Oglesby. The evening opened with a special tribute to three members who passed this year, Phillip Ahearn, Muriel Harmon and Richard Bryant. Katie Troccoli, managing broker, Washington Square Realty, and Jarrett Myers, broker, eXp Realty, were awarded certificates for successful completion of the GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) Course II. The following people successfully completed the Illini Valley Orientation – Johanna Arkels, Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors; William Brown, Harvest Realty; Gary Ernat, Koyak Appraisal Service; Virginia Farneti, Janko Realty & Development; Cynthia Funfsinn, Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors; Kendra Gentry, United Country Starved Rock Realty; Haley Guisti, Gonet Realty and Land Co.; Mary Lushina, Janko Realty & Development; Jarrett Myers, eXp Realty; Joanne Sheldon, Success Realty; Jamie Unholz, Janko Realty & Development; and Karen Zermeno, Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors. The 2014 Bronze President’s Club Award winners were Alice Green, broker, United Country Starved Rock Realty; Robin Guerrero, broker,

Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors; Roxana Noble, broker, Landmark Realty of Illinois; Katie Troccoli, managing broker, Washington Square Realtors; and Carol Wlodarchak, broker, Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors. The 2014 Bronze President’s Life Award winner was Robin Guerrero, Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors. The 2014 Silver President’s Club Award winners were Alice Green, Broker, United Country Starved Rock Realty; Robin Guerrero, Broker, Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors; Roxana Noble, broker, Landmark Realty of Illinois; Katie Troccoli, managing broker, Washington Square Realtors; and Carol Wlodarchak, Broker, Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors. The 2014 Silver President’s Life Award winner was Robin Guerrero, broker, Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors The 2014 Gold President’s Club Award winners were Alice Green, broker, United Country Starved Rock Realty; Robin Guerrero, broker, Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors; and Carol Wlodarchak, broker, Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors. The Gold Life Award was presented to Alice Green, broker, United Country Starved Rock Realty; and Roxana Noble, broker, Landmark Realty of Illinois. The 2014 Platinum Pres-

ident’s Club Award winners were Roxana Noble, broker, Landmark Realty of Illinois; and Linda Jones, broker, Century 21 Windsor Realty. Members qualifying to receive a 2014 Diamond President’s Club Award include Roxana Noble, broker, Landmark Realty of Illinois; and Theresa Pounstone, broker, Coldwell Banker Honig-Bell. The 2014 Pearl President’s Club Award was presented Roxana Noble, broker, Landmark Realty of Illinois. The Sapphire President’s Club Award was presented to Beckie Chismarick, broker, RE/MAX 1st Choice. The Emerald President’s Club Awards were presented to Beckie Chismarick, broker, RE/MAX 1st Choice, and Janelle McCarter, broker, Landmark Realty of Illinois. The Ruby President’s Club Award was presented to Beckie Chismarick, RE/ MAX 1st Choice. The Ruby Life Award was presented to Bonnie Lester, Coldwell Banker Today’s Realtors. The recipient of the 2015 Affiliate Recognition Award is Saralyn Shetterly, assistant vice president, Eureka Savings Bank. The Illini Valley Association of Realtors jurisdictional territory includes LaSalle County, Putnam County, and a major portion of Bureau County.

ISP announces Roadside Safety Check results LASALLE — The Illinois State Police (ISP) announced the results of a Roadside Safety Check (RSC) held during the late evening hours of Saturday, June 20, and the early morning hours of Sunday, June 21. The detail was conducted on Route 71 near Route 6 by ISP District 17 officers. Alcohol is involved in nearly 40 percent of fatal crashes in Illinois. RSCs are

designed to remove alcohol-impaired drivers, however when other violations are observed such as driving with a suspended or revoked license, operating a vehicle without a valid registration or insurance or safety belt violations, enforcement action may be taken. The following citations were issued at the safety check: There were two citations and two warn-

ings issued for registration offenses; four citations and three warnings issued for driver’s license offenses and four citations issued for occupant restraint offenses. There were 15 total citations/arrests made and 10 total written warnings. This project was funded through the Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Safety.

Appraiser From Page 1 by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation on June 2 for violating Illinois law on real estate appraisals, a press release issued June 29 by Marquis Energy LLC stated. “The order cites more than 20 errors and omissions made by Mr. Pomykacz in his preparation of a misleading appraisal of the Marquis Energy ethanol production plant in Hennepin,

Illinois,” the Marquis Energy press release stated. “The order came out of a complaint that was filed by the department against Mr. Pomykacz for errors and omissions in his appraisal of the Marquis Energy property. A two-day hearing was held on the complaint last November.” When contacted for this story, both IVCC and Pomykacz declined to comment. Throughout the lawsuit, Mark Marquis was vocal in his belief the lawsuit had no merit and that Marquis Ener-

gy had been incorrectly appraised by Pomykacz. “Illinois Valley Community College paid Mr. Pomykacz $25,000 to appraise the Marquis Energy property, a fee which is almost twice that charged by Illinois appraisers. Mr. Pomykacz appraised the Marquis Energy property at almost double the national average for similar ethanol plants,” the Marquis Energy press release stated. “Mr. Pomykacz did his appraisal without ever coming to Hennepin to view the Marquis Energy property.”

Investigation continues into fatal crash LASALLE — Illinois State Police (ISP) continue to investigate the fatal crash that happened in the morning hours on Wednesday, July 1, on Interstate 80. Police have revealed the driver of the vehicle was Nicki L. Keeney, 31, of

Granger, Ind. According to the crash report, a trooper checking a disabled vehicle on Interstate 80 near Mile Marker 77 noticed tire tracks departing the roadway down a steep ravine. The trooper located a red 2002 Pontiac Coupe

approximately 500 feet off the interstate. The vehicle had struck a tree, and Keeney, who appeared to have been ejected from the vehicle, was located near the car. ISP was assisted by the LaSalle County Coroner’s Office.

Police briefs ISP Possession of cannabis Emil Harkowski, 25, of Hanover Park was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of cannabis on Interstate 80 near Mile Marker 77 in LaSalle County at

12:56 a.m. July 3.

LaSalle County Sheriff Warrant arrest Kyle Hog, 18, of Tonica, was stopped on Route 251, south of Route 17,

for improper lane usage on June 21. Hog was also taken into custody on a Livingston County failure to appear warrant. Hog was taken to the LaSalle County Jail pending bond and was issued a verbal warning for improper lane usage.

ROEs serving schools in new offices SPRINGFIELD — Summer often means a time for Illinois educators to take a break and prepare for a new school year. For Illinois regional superintendents this year, summer means the hard work that goes into combining offices and doing more with less. Illinois lawmakers in 2012 ordered consolidation of Regional Offices of Education from 44 to 35 offices statewide. The new combined offices were up for election last November, and the new officeholders and offices took over on July 1. The leaders of the Regional Offices of Education have worked for many months to ensure the transition goes smoothly. The consolidation process included combining staffs and office locations, coordinating programs with local school districts and shuffling management of some educational programs within the ROEs themselves.

Jeff Vose, who now heads the Sangamon-Menard ROE and is the new president of the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools (IARSS), credited a selfless approach by his organization’s members to making for a seamless transition. “It is never easy to lose members and change how you serve your districts, but each of these regions and the many counties they serve have done it by putting what’s best for Illinois education first,” Vose said. “We have worked hard to ensure any complications are minimized and ask for our schools’ and the public’s patience as we go through a big transition these next few weeks. We look forward to working within our regions to put into practice our commitment to safety, support and success in classrooms around the state.” Of the 13 new regions and counties combined

under the consolidation, the following is the one pertinent to the local area. For more information about the reorganization, visit the IARSS website at http://iarss. org/. • Marshall, Putnam and LaSalle Counties Regional Superintendent – Christopher Dvorak. This ROE’s website is http:// www.roe35.org/. Dvorak said, “We are pleased to announce our Regional Office of Education consolidation of LaSalle, Marshall and Putnam counties. As of July 1, please contact the LMP Regional Office of Education for all of your educational needs. You may access a listing of staff members at our website. Our talented and dedicated professional staff look forward to serving you. Service to this newly-formed region is our priority. If you have any questions about this consolidation, please contact our office at your convenience.”

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4 Perspective 4 • The Tonica News • Friday, July 10, 2015

The Editorial Page The Tonica News Sam R Fisher

Terri Simon

Publisher

Editor

What to write ... what to write? My pet peeves

Before I started here full time, I had been asked to write a guest column. I wavered on the commitment, but was intrigued. I spent a couple of months tossing around ideas while regularly promising the editor I wasn’t blowing her off and was trying to think of something which would gel into a topic. It was intimidating, but I settled on the topic of my last column, classic films. During my first few days here, my editor was merciful and gave me more than a month before it was due. I spent most of the first week trying to keep up with everything new. However, being ambiCOMMENTARY tious, I decided by the end of my first week I was going to write my column. Getting it done early would be a confidence booster and also give me extra time to consider the next topic. I was relieved when my editor liked it, but then she said “You’re still on the rotation for July.” My industriousness and ambition had back-fired. My first month here has been great fun, but it hasn’t left much time for thought toward a personal column. My deadline crept closer, and there weren’t many, if any, ideas forming. Being given a topic, or at least pointed in the general direction of one, is much easier than pulling one out of thin air. I’ve realized my column will be my greatest monthly challenge. My wife suggested writing about dogs. Everyone who knows me knows it’s a topic which is inevitable. “You could write about how dogs are the best pets,” she said. “Are they?” I jokingly replied, as my smallest dog sat nose-to-nose and licked my glasses. I felt writing about dogs was a “life line” topic; I wanted to save it for when I really needed it. So, I continued to think. With the deadline looming and a bit of panic rising, I got online and started looking at writing prompts for ideas. When I got to a section titled “Things of three” I read the first question and smiled at my immediate answer. I read the second question and laughed because the answer was the same. The first question was “If you had to evacuate your home because of a natural disaster, what three things would you take with you?” My first thought was of my three dogs. The second question was “What are three pet peeves?.” I had my topic, dogs it is. They excel at being peeves. Of course I’d take my dogs during a natural disaster, most pet owners would. They are deeply loved family members who I interact with daily. Sometimes it’s more interaction than I’d prefer, but they are persistent ... I’ll give them that. They’re my good friends; each one has their own personality and quirks; but there is always the inherent dogness present as well. “Dogness” may not be an officially recognized word, but it should be. It’s a perfect way to describe their nature, and all dog owners can relate. I could write a column about each of them and the respective chaos they have brought to my life. They are masters in the fine arts of escapades, hi-jinks and shenanigans. You could also say they’re like my roommates, which brings us to the realm of the aforementioned pet peeves. Most wouldn’t tolerate a roommate who subjected them to things a dog does. I’ll avoid the most unpleasant, but we’ll cover a few things. I don’t appreciate it when my dogs wipe their feet on my pants, but I’ve tolerated it for years. I’ve learned how to anticipate and avoid things like this, but my success rate is far from stellar. Dogs rarely miss an opportunity to exploit your forgetfulness. Imagine a roommate who was wet from a bath, getting caught in the rain or from rolling in “something” they found. They see your open bedroom door, the fresh, clean sheets on the bed and then decide to dry themselves off by rolling around on your bed, giving special attention to your pillow. Or, after eating and drinking, and rather sloppily, too, they happily approached you with thanks and then proceeded to wipe their face on your lap, leaving it covered with bits of food and wet slobber. There are many more examples available, but perhaps I’ll save those for another day. There are special peeves for each size of dog, too. My big dogs have caused wear and tear to my body over the years from what has felt like earnest attempts to rip

Dave Cook

First Person

wish for: Peace on Earth and open minds. What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done: Beat stage four cancer. Where do you most want to travel, but have never been: Italy. What is one thing you’re truly passionate about: Making a difference in this world.

Vickie Scoma

Town: LaSalle.

What is your favorite area restaurant and what do you like to order there: Alberto’s, I order the Amatriciana every time.

Family: My puppy, Dexter. Occupation: Employee at Tonica Lumber Co. What was your first job: Human resources manager at Mathematica Software Company. What is your favorite movie: “Singing in the Rain.” What is your favorite book:

“Amazing Gracie.” What is the best concert you’ve been to: It’s a tie, Kid Rock and Zac Brown. If you met a genie who granted you one wish, what would you

What is something you like about your hometown: I love how people come together to support each other during a difficult time. Is there anything you would change: If I could change anything, I would wish that everyone would treat their pets like family.

Looking back ... and ahead On my first day of high school, I walked into the cold building on Silverspoon with one goal in mind: To get in and out with grades worthy of a faraway school. I was not there to socialize. I had an “all work, no play” mindset. Gradually, that perspective changed. I met some amazing people, made more great friends, and grew closer with existing ones. But no matter how much I enjoyed it, I still dreamt of life after graduation. As I sit here in my new day job, I miss my high school friends. I miss seeing them in the halls. I miss attending classes with different groups of people. I miss biology class (surprisingly) with its intriguing but difficult course material that we all complained about endlessly. I miss starting the day with the laidback, engaging journalism teacher who taught me in all but one semester and then ending long days with lively banter in advanced English classes. I miss the school paper dearly. After three years of running it, it became my baby. I was blessed with a dedicated staff my senior

Maddi Loiselle COMMENTARY

year. I was lucky enough to have my best friend as my co-editor our senior year. Together, we led the publication by gently pushing the reporters to turn in better pieces. Paw Prints, as it was named, was my favorite part of high school. The student body was full of characters that were fun to be around, but the paper takes the cake. It gave me a chance to work closely with the written word. It does not take a genius to know I am in love and plan on spending the rest of my life with it, which is why I am excited to start college. My senior year ended positively. The Putnam County Class of 2015 was a close knit group that shared many good times together. But it was time to move on; four years is long enough. After graduation, I was able to sleep in for one week before

starting at the bank and continuing at my ice cream gig. At the beginning of summer, I envisioned working both jobs tirelessly to save money for college. My “all work, no play” attitude, the same way I started my freshman year, didn’t last long. A seven-day work week does not offer a lot of freedom. The thing about life is that it hardly changes. Situations are altered along the way, but day in and day out, one goal takes precedence above the others. When you are young, it is about prepping for the future. When you are older, it is still about preparing for the future. At this brief point in my life, between high school and college, I am mentally and fiscally preparing for another four years of schooling. I am leaving my childhood behind to begin adulthood. In high school, I took the first steps. College is going to be my leap, and when I get the career, I will have landed. Maddi Loiselle, 18, of Hennepin is a 2015 Putnam County High School graduate. She can be reached in care of this newspaper at P.O. Box 340, Princeton, IL 61356.

TO Letter THE Editor

Illinois needs Amtrak To the Editor, I serve on the Amtrak Board of Directors, and as mayor of Macomb from 1991 to 2003, I worked with local, regional and state leaders to preserve Amtrak services. Most importantly, I live in West Central Illinois where Amtrak is essential to our economy. Downstate Illinois communities could lose nearly half of their Amtrak service if the present budget impasse continues in Springfield. It’s both ironic and unnecessary that a decade of progress would be surrendered so quietly. Ridership on these routes has grown by nearly 140 percent since the service expansion 10 years ago. Stations are being rehabbed or replaced, including in Chicago, where the city and Amtrak are partners to improve Chicago Union

Station. Businesses are beginning to locate in or near these transportation hubs, while downstate colleges and universities — both public and private — rely on Amtrak to attract students and staff from metro Chicago. We are about to let all this slip away. People talk about how transportation is important to economic development, but there is more than just talk in this case. Here are some facts: New passenger rail cars will be built in Illinois with federal funds to improve efficiency and reduce costs for the Illinois service. Federal funds being invested in the Chicago-St. Louis corridor employed hundreds of workers over the past four years. Amtrak has more than 1,400 Illinois citizens who paid taxes on $103 million in wages last year. Amtrak also purchased about $100 million of Illinois goods and services in 2014.

my arms off while I’m holding their leashes. I’ve endured it because I understand the constant threat of a neighborhood squirrel invasion; constant vigilance is imperative. My smaller dogs are great at knowing exactly where to step or jump on me in order to cause maximum discomfort. There’s too much accuracy to be coincidence. I’ll be sleeping with my smallest dog, who is an excellent foot warmer on cold winter nights, and while she has the whole bed to choose from, she will unfailingly decide to walk across my head and if possible, step on my throat if she gets up to change position. There have also been

A new study reports Amtrak in Illinois supports $371 million in businesses, 9,500 jobs and brings $103 million in added value. All of that is in addition to more than a million passengers riding on Amtrak trains downstate and more than 800,000 from Chicago to points north. That’s hundreds of thousands of times cars were parked instead of driven last year due to the partnership between Amtrak and the state of Illinois. The state dollars that fund Illinois Amtrak are separate from those that fund education, pensions and other state services. We will lose so much if communities and citizens are silent. Contact your State Representative, State Senator and Gov. Rauner and let them know that Amtrak service is important to you and your community and the state of Illinois. Tom Carper, mayor Macomb

those quick extractions from dreamland caused by midnight sneezes in my face. There are, though, far more positive aspects to living with canine friends than negative. I’m sure I do things that annoy them as well. But, they always forgive me, as I do them. It shows the power of their overwhelmingly positive charisma and capacity for love. As Samuel L. Jackson said in the film “Pulp Fiction,” “... a dog’s got personality. Personality goes a long way.” Tonica News Staff Writer Dave Cook can be reached at news@tonicanews.com.

5 Life Friday, July 10, 2015 • The Tonica News • 5

Community Blood drive in Tonica TONICA — Illini State Bank will host a blood drive from 1 to 6 p.m. Monday, July 20, at the United Methodist Church, 423 Wauponis St. in Tonica. For an appointment,

call Joyce Obermiller at 815-442-8211. Walkins are welcome. Those donating at this blood drive are helping one or more graduating seniors earn a scholarship.

Crafters wanted TONICA — Illinois Valley crafters are wanted for the next “Stamp & Chat” event at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, at Cathy’s in Ton-

ica. Participants will meet to stamp, scrapbook, learn a new technique and chat. For more information, call Cathy at 630-209-0605.

Preschool screening The LaSalle/Putnam County Educational Alliance for Special Education (L.E.A.S.E.) will conduct a free screening for all children ages 3-5 not enrolled in kindergarten. The child’s speech, language, hearing, vision and general readiness development will be assessed. A game format will be used, and the screening takes approximately 25 minutes. Parents are urged to register their child for this screening. Registration

and screenings are as follows: • Oglesby registration is July 27-31 at Lincoln School, 755 Bennett Avenue, Oglesby. Screenings will be Aug. 5 at the same location. For more information, call 815-883-9297. • Tonica/Lostant/Deer Park registration is July 27-31 at Tonica Grade School, 535 N. 1981st Road, Tonica. Screenings will be Aug. 6 at the same location. For more information, call 815-442-3420.

Free developmental screenings planned OGLESBY – Child and Family Connections #15, in partnership with LaSalle/Putnam County Educational Alliance for Special Education (L.E.A.S.E.), will be offering free developmental screenings for children birth to 3 years old. The goal of developmental screenings is to provide parents with information on their

child’s development for their age and to learn more about what is normal development for children who are those ages. Registration will be July 28 to Aug. 1 at Lincoln School, 755 Bennett Ave., Oglesby and screenings will be Aug. 5 at the same location. For more information, call 815-883-9297.

ICC announces spring dean’s list honors EAST PEORIA — Illinois Central College presented its spring 2015 dean’s list honors to students who earned a grade point

average of 3.5 to 3.99 on a 4.0 scale. Area students included on the list were Eric Bulak of Peru and Alex Pettis of Putnam.

Augustana College releases dean’s list ROCK ISLAND — Augustana College announced 892 students were named to the dean’s list for the 2015 spring term. Students who have earned this academic honor have maintained a grade-point average of 3.5

or higher on a four-point scale for courses taken during the term. Area students included on the list were Gregory Goodman of Peru, Heather Maze of Peru, Andrew Pypno of Peru, Martin Riva of Mark and Abigail Smith of Peru.

Births Announced Rockey Eric Rockey and Mia Gumuski of Lostant are the parents of a son born June 28 at Illinois Valley Community Hospital in Peru.

Leffelman Allen and Kari (Schultz) Leffelman of Tonica are the parents of a son born June 29 at Illinois Valley Community Hospital in Peru.

Photo contributed

Members of the LaSalle County senior livestock judging team include front row, from left) Clay Sundberg, Emma Freebairn, Jaron Black and Cole Freebairn; and (back row) Jacob Black, Kara Freebairn, Tyler Angus, Austin Walter and Carter Guilandri.

LaSalle County senior livestock judging team headed to nationals at American Royal The team of 4-H members from the LaSalle County senior livestock judging team earned the right to represent Illinois 4-H at the American Royal Livestock Show this fall by capturing the top spot in the senior age division at this year’s state 4-H livestock judging contest held Monday, June 15, at the Stock Pavilion on the University of Illinois campus. Senior members of the LaSalle County 4-H Livestock Judging Team are Emma Freebairn, Austin Walter, Clay Sundberg and Carter Guilandri. Members of the Junior LaSalle County 4-H Livestock Judging Team, Jacob Black, Cole Free-

bairn, Kara Freebairn and Jaron Black, placed third overall. Members of the junior and senior teams were also able to participate as individuals. The individual overall senior placings are as follows: Emma Freebairn, second; Austin Walter, third; Clay Sundberg, fifth; Carter Guilandri, 13th; and Tyler Angus, 47th. The individual overall junior placings are as follows: Jacob Black, 10th; Cole Freebairn, 15th; Kara Freebairn, 19th; and Jaron Black, 65th. The LaSalle County 4-H Livestock Judging Team, of the University of Illinois Extension-Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall and Putnam Unit, is

coached by Scott Freebairn and Sharon Reel. More than 200 4-H members competed in the contest. Animals for the contest were provided by U of I’s Animal Science department, and professors provided the critique and instruction for the youth. Tammy Miller of Joliet Junior College scored the contest. “We hope by exposing youth to these types of opportunities at a college setting, they’ll be more likely to pursue advanced education in animal sciences at the collegiate level,” said Dan Jennings, U of I Extension animal science statewide educator.

Reddick Mansion will participate in Blue Star Museums program OTTAWA — The Reddick Mansion will again offer free admission to all active duty military personnel and their families this summer as part of the Blue Star Museums program. Blue Star Museums is a collaboration of the National Endowments for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense and more that 1,800 museums across America to offer free admission to all military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day, 2015. Blue Star Families is a national, nonprofit network of military families from all ranks and services, including guard and reserve, dedicated to supporting, connecting, and empowering military families. The complete list of participating museums is available at www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums. According to Diane Sanders, president of the Reddick Mansion Association, “The Reddick Mansion is proud to be part of the Blue Star Museums program. We appreciate the opportunity to thank our military families for their service and share with them one of Ottawa’s and Illinois’ cultural treasures.

During the last two years, we have had several veterans and their families tour the mansion as part of this program, and we are hoping for even more participants this year.” The Reddick Mansion, built in 1858, is listed on the National Register of Historic Sites and is open for tours six days a week from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays). The Mansion, at 100 W. Lafayette St. in Ottawa, also has meeting/reception rooms available for rent for special events.

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Menus and Activities For more information on the commuPutnam County nity center, visit www.pcaservices.org/. Community Center Bridges Senior Center July 13 — Pork chops, au gratin pota-

toes, baked beans, fruit cocktail, rolls. July 14 — Chicken strips, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, fresh strawberries, bread and butter, dessert. July 15 — Chicken kiev, streamed rice, baby carrots, tossed salad with dressing, blushing pear, Italian bread. July 16 — Barbecue on bun, baked beans, pasta salad, banana, bread and butter, dessert. July 17 — Fish squares with tartar sauce, potato wedges, peas, pineapple, rolls. 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.

July 13 — 9 a.m., Tai Chi; 10 a.m., Sewing Circle; 12:45 p.m., Bingo; 1:30 p.m., open cards. July 14 — 9 a.m., Forever Fit; 10 a.m., Soldier’s Angels. July 15 — 9 a.m., Forever Fit; 10:15 a.m., intermediate computer class; noon, potluck. July 16 — 9 a.m., Tai Chi; 12:45 p.m., Bingo; 1:30 p.m., open cards. July 17 — 9 a.m., Forever Fit; 1 p.m., open Wii bowling. The Bridges Senior Center is a congregate meal site. Meals, provided by Voluntary Action Center, are served from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday for a suggested donation of $3.50. A 24-hour advance reservation is required. For more information, call 815-431-8034. Visit alternativesforyou.org/bridges for more events and activities.

LaSalle Public Library receives donation from Peru Lions Club Photo contributed

Summer program continues at library Spencer Samek, Madisonlynn Lyons and Sydney Samek put the finishing touches on their summer floral wreaths as part of the Lostant Library summer program. The program continues through July, offering Lostant youth the opportunity to make crafts, play games, have a snack and win prizes while “Reading to the Rhythm”. ••• Items for the Community section can be emailed to news@tonicanews.com. Visit us online at www.tonicanews.com.

LASALLE — The LaSalle Public Library has announced the receipt of a donation from the Peru Lions Club. The donation will make it possible for the library to update and expand educational resources that support the library’s mission of providing an avenue of “lifelong learning” for the people of the community.

The library plans to use the funds for collection development and educational technologies. This donation is particularly important because educational materials like nonfiction and “handson” learning resources are often more costly than other library materials. The positive impact of the Peru Lions Club

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7 LIfe/Classifieds Friday, July 10, 2015 • The Tonica News • 7

Economic contribution study says ag is critical to Illinois’ well-being

Agriculture Illinois irrigators required to report water usage BLOOMINGTON — The Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS) is now requiring Illinois irrigators to report their water usage to the state. The requirement stems from the Illinois Water Use Act, which was amended in 2010 to make reporting for all high capacity wells or intakes mandatory in Illinois, including agricultural irrigation. “This is a new requirement that many of our irrigators may not be familiar with,” said Lauren Lurkins, director of natural and environmental resources, Illinois Farm Bureau. “Under the amended law, irrigators were given five years to comply. Irrigators must report their water usage for the first time by the end of the 2015 calendar year, and we’ve been

working with the ISWS to provide our farmers with all the options and information possible.” Under the amended law, high capacity irrigators are required to report their water use from both wells and surface water intakes, as well as the location of each well and intake. Irrigators may either provide an actual number of gallons pumped, if they’re using a flow meter, or estimate their water withdrawals using a method approved by the ISWS. All reporting forms, as well as water withdrawal estimation methods, can be found on the ISWS website at http://www. sws.uiuc.edu/gws/iwip/ irrigation/. A handbook with additional information and guidance also can be found on the website.

IDA to offer free recycling program for agrichemical containers SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Agriculture is encouraging farmers and agrichemical facilities to save their empty agrichemical containers. The department announced it has arranged to recycle them. Beginning at the end of July, sites throughout the state will collect containers. “This program offers farmers and agrichemical facilities a convenient opportunity to dispose of empty pesticide containers and demonstrate their environmental stewardship,” Agriculture Director Philip Nelson said. “I would encourage them to gather any containers that they may have been planning to

throw in the garbage and take them to the nearest collection site.” Metal and household pesticide containers are not eligible for the recycling program. Collection sites will accept only high-density polyethylene, No. 2 plastic, agrichemical containers that are clean and dry. Participants are responsible for rinsing them and removing all caps, labels, booklets and foil seals. To obtain a free brochure, call the Illinois Department of Agriculture toll free at 800-641-3934. The local collection will be 9 to 11 a.m. on Aug. 7 at Grainco FS in Lostant. Call Dave Callan at 815-3683215 for more information.

BLOOMINGTON — A new study of agriculture in Illinois shows agriculture is a critical component of Illinois’ overall economic well-being, contributing about $120.9 billion of total economic output — more than several other Illinois industries, including the financial, transportation and construction industries. The study, commissioned by the Illinois Livestock Development Group (ILDG) with cooperation from Illinois Corn Marketing Board (ICMB), Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB), and Illinois Soybean Association (ISA), was conducted by Decision Innovation Solutions (DIS) of Urbandale, Iowa. The analysis is based on a combination of datasets from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) 2012 Census of Agriculture and the IMPLAN modeling system. “We’re happy to have the opportunity to partner with so many of Illinois’ commodity groups to have this study done,” said Jim Fraley, coordinator, ILDG. “It

really confirms what farmers and farm organizations have long asserted — that Illinois agriculture is integral to our state’s economy. Agriculture is so closely connected to a large set of related industries that a jolt to any one of them would have significant negative effects.” “Illinois farmers were the top soybean producing state for the second year in a row in 2014 and the Illinois Agriculture Economic Contribution Study reinforces the economic value Illinois soybean farmers provide to the state, both in urban and rural areas,” added Duane Dahlman, soybean farmer from Marengo, and ISA Marketing Committee chairman. “ISA became involved with this study to help reinforce Illinois’ role as a leading agriculture state.” Key findings in the study include: • In 2012, production agriculture and agriculture-related industries accounted for 432,831 jobs, or about one in every 17 jobs in Illinois.

DECATUR — The Farm Progress Show, along with Richland Community College and sponsored by Syngenta, featuring Golden Harvest and NK seed brands, once again hosts a concert featuring country music recording artist Craig Morgan on Wednesday, Sept. 2. Known as the nation’s greatest ag showcase, the 62nd annual Farm Progress Show runs Sept. 1-3, at its Progress City location in Decatur. “The Farm Progress Show is delighted to offer a concert again in Deca-

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in policies and regulations at all levels,” explained Lou Lamoreux, a grain and livestock farmer who also is ICMB chairman. “Given the changes recently in the farm economy and the outlook for a few tough years on the way, the data in this study should be carefully considered and shared within agriculture and beyond.” The study also includes information about Illinois output by industry, Illinois jobs by industry, and Illinois total value added by industry. Additionally, the analysis includes information regarding which counties and Illinois Congressional districts derive the largest share of the jobs and economic output from agriculture and related industries. All of the information is expressed as both numbers and percentages. The complete study can be found at http://www. decision-innovation. com/economic-impact/ case-study-illinois-agricultural-economic-contribution.aspx.

Farm Progress Show to feature Craig Morgan in concert tur,” said Don Tourte, Penton Agriculture, vice president and market leader. “The concert is a great addition to the jampacked schedule of the Farm Progress Show. It’s a perfect way to share an enjoyable evening with Farm Progress Show exhibitors, visitors and members of the Decatur and surrounding communities.” The concert will be held near Richland Community College, just south of the Farm Progress Show exhibit field. Concert-goers will park in the same

––––––––––– Classifieds ––––––––––

********** 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

• Twenty-four of Illinois’ counties derive at least one-third of their total output from agriculture and agriculture-related industries. • Twelve of Illinois’ counties derive at least one-fifth of their total jobs from agriculture and agriculture-related industries. • Crop farming is a significant part of agriculture’s economic contribution. Statewide output attributed to crop production and further processing is more than $56.7 billion and is responsible for 197,353 jobs. • Livestock farming also is a significant part of agriculture’s economic contribution. Statewide output attributed to livestock production and further processing is $14.1 billion and is responsible for 52,124 jobs. “When we have a handle on the positive economic contributions that Illinois’ family farmers bring to their communities locally, and at the state level, we can put into perspective the true value of changes

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460 • Garage Sales LAKE THUNDERBIRD 4 Hawthorne Court. Friday, July 10, 10am-4pm; Saturday, July 11, 8am-4pm; Sunday, July 12, 8am4pm. This is going to be a great sale so don't miss it! If you have kids going back to college this might be the place to stop. Furniture, lamps exercise equipment, tableware, tools, Harley Davidson parts, fishing and boating items and much more. Stop by and see if there is something in the garage you must have PRINCETON 1230 Timber Ridge Road. Thursday, July 9, 3p-6pm; Friday, July 10, 9am-4pm; Saturday, July 11, 9am-noon. LARGE SALE. Weight bench/weights. Bike, foosball table, tools, clothes, household items, decorations, teen & children items, upright deep freezer PRINCETON Park Place, 1208 Pheasant Ridge Lane. Friday, July 10, 9am-5pm; Saturday, July 11, 9am-1pm. Large sale of household items including furniture, dehumidifer, lawn swing collectibles, art work

- 700 Real Estate For Sale 767 • Mobile Home Sales **************** PUBLISHER'S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call, HUD tollfree at 800 669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 800 927-9275

lots used for show visitors. The concert gates will open at 4 p.m. with the opening act beginning at 5:30 p.m. and Craig Morgan taking the stage at 6:30 p.m. The opening act will be named closer to show time. Advance tickets are $25. Order tickets online at etix.com, richland.edu, and farmprogressshow. com. All tickets are general admission and lawn seating. There will be no ticket refunds or exchanges. The 2015 Farm Progress Show is located in

northeast Decatur, south of Interstate 72 and west of Richland Community College. The show is open to visitors from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, and Wednesday, Sept. 2, and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday. Sept. 3. Admission at the gate is $15 for adults, $8 for ages 13 to 17. Adult ticket discounts are available online. The concert is a separate event, and a separate admission ticket is needed. The public is welcome at the show and concert. For additional information, visit farmprogressshow.com.

999 • Legal Notices

CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LASALLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF ) CONNIE M. ) SKERSTON ) Deceased ) No. 15-P-69 CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of CONNIE M. SKERSTON. Letters of Office were issued on June 9, 2015 to Amber Dzierzynski, 314 S. Bureau Ave., Ladd, IL 61329, as Independent 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 16th day of June, 2015. Attorney John Balestri Attorney for Estate 149 Gooding Street LaSalle, IL 61301 815-223-6600

Published in the Tonica News June 26, July 3 and 10, 2015. LEGAL NOTICE The Tonica C o n s o l i d a t e d Community Grade School District #79 has passed a resolution establishing prevailing wage rates for construction to be the same as those in LaSalle County as determined by the Illinois Department of Labor. Anyone wishing to inspect the resolution, may do so at the grade school office. Lawrence W. Carlton Interim Superintendent June 30, 2015 Published in the Tonica News July 10, 2015.

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