TON-11-15-2013

1 Front Volume 140 No. 38

Friday, November 15, 2013

The Tonica News

Single Copy Cost 50¢

National crime rate climbs Property crimes down in LaSalle County OTTAWA — The U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) shows violent crime and property crime rates have risen for the second consecutive year.

According to the BJS study released last month, the violent crime rate in the United States in 2012 jumped more

than 15 percent, from 22.6 victimizations per 1,000 persons in 2011 to 26.1 victimizations in 2012. The figures include estimates for rape, sexual assault, robbery, aggravated and simple assault.

In addition, the BJS study shows the property crime rate increased by more than 12 per-

cent in 2012. In 2011, there were 138.7 property crimes per 1,000 households, compared to 155.8 property crimes in 2012. Property crime figures include estimates for burglary, theft and motor vehicle theft.

Unfortunately, not all crimes are reported to authorities. In 2012,

about 44 percent of violent victimizations and 54 percent of serious violent victimizations were reported to police, with about 34 percent of property victimizations reported.

LaSalle County Sheriff Tom Templeton said the trend is just the opposite in the county.

While violent crime is not a major problem in

LaSalle County, property crimes are down.

“Between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2012, the rural areas of LaSalle County reported 148 burglaries and 255 thefts,” Templeton said. “This year, from Jan. 1 to Nov. 5, we’ve had only 84 burglaries and 180 thefts.

Unless we have a major crime wave, our numbers will be way down

from last year.”

Locally, the numbers are even more encouraging. This year, Tonica has reported just one burglary and four thefts under $300. Lostant has been slightly worse off with two burglaries and one theft over $300.

Tonica News Staff Writer Ken Schroeder contributed to this report.

Lostant may see water/sewer rate hike

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

LOSTANT — Sewage issues dominated the meeting of the Lostant Village Board Nov. 11. With Mayor Fred Hartenbower and board members Tony Allison and Chris Dose absent, the rest of the board heard about problems and concerns from public works supervisor Mitch McCaw. The new sewer pumps which were installed in Lostant two weeks ago brought some new problems with them, according to McCaw. He said Midwest Pump, the company who installed them, has already come back to service them after they broke down within 10 days of installation. The work was done free of charge, including the rental of a back-up pump while the new ones were serviced.

Water and sewer supervisor Dave Mertes asked McCaw if he was able to discover why the pumps had come in over budget when they were purchased. He replied an examination of the earlier bid did not include labor or transportation of the equipment, causing the discrepancy.

McCaw also delivered some bad news in the village’s quest to update the pump house to a threephase configuration, since nobody manufactures twophase equipment.

See Lostant Page 2 Vol. 140 No. 38 One Section - 8 Pages

Tonica News photo/Ken Schroeder

Bob Does has been collecting toys for several years, with hundreds filling the walls of his basement and his workshop. Some of his favorites are these trucks made by the Smith-Miller Toy Co. between 1945 and 1955.

Collecting collectibles Bob Does is a collector’s collector

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

TONICA — Most of us have a collection of some kind; whether it’s stamps, porcelain figurines or Star Trek memorabilia.

Tonica’s Bob Does doesn’t have a single collection. Instead, he has several.

Cars, toys, knives and other collections fill Does’ home and workshop with a bright array of colors, each with a unique history. In a corner of his workshop, there’s a prop used in “Who Framed Roger Rabbit,” the front end of a jalopy with the “WB” logo in the license plate area.

“When I bought it, it was green and busted. It was on the More on 34 sale, Does said.

“I fixed all the fiberglass and painted the sides.

“I used to have a lot of guns, but I sold most of them because I hardly hunt anymore,” Does said. “I collect all kinds of stuff.

I’ve got a pocket knife collection with over 600 knives.”

Does’ knife collection includes

some rare treasures, including a Royal Canadian Mounted Police-issue pocket knife and a commemorative knife from the Chicago World’s Fair.

A series of photographs line a wall in Does’ basement; a history of automobiles he’s bought, refurbished and sold over the years.

See Does Page 3

Have a very Blessed, Happy THanksgiving!

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2 Local 2 • The Tonica News • Friday, November 15, 2013

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

The Tonica News P.O. Box 86, Tonica, IL 61370 (USPS 633340) Published every Friday at Tonica, IL 61370 Entered at Tonica Post Office as Periodical Mail $22 In LaSalle County $25 Outside of LaSalle County

A ramp at Washington Park Ottawa Boy Scout project has local ties

was the project for him.

The next step was the planning and implementation of the plan. Other members of local Boy Scout troops could come and assist on the project for service hours, but ultimately, all of it rested with Felte. He acknowledged he learned a lot.

“Coordinating people was pretty hard to do.

You’ve got to stay on top of projects like this. A couple times I let it slip. The

first summer I had a huge gap and absolutely nothing happened. So I guess planning is something else I learned,” he said.

Felte learned about cement pouring, iron working, painting and gardening during his project. He also learned how to talk to people and explain his vision and reasoning for what he wanted to do.

“When I started drawing up the plans with my grandpa, he brought up the

fact that I had to learn about the American Disabilities Act. So after looking that up we got to meet with the city engineers, and he had a whole big book on ADA stuff, and he went through it with me,” Felte said.

There was great support from the city of Ottawa and area businesses concerning this project. The gravel, cement, railings and paint have all been donated. Various businesses also

donated equipment when needed to make things work. There were people that also made donations for the project.

Felte also acknowledged his family support of his Eagle Scout project. His grandpa, Bob Felte Sr., helped out — especially in the beginning.

“When he decided he wanted to do this and needed my help, he came to my house and he became a very good draftsman,” Bob Felte Sr. said. “Kris was even a Scout in Tonica for a time when he crossed over from Cub Scouts. I think he learned to be a team leader. There was a lot of different outfits that had to be brought together in order to make this happen.”

In the end, Kris Felte is very appreciative of all the support he received in making his Eagle Scout project happen.

“I have seen a lot of other Scouts go through this. I have seen them get donations for their projects. I was just hoping that I would be able to get stuff as easily as they all did. It turned out to be all right.

There are a lot of people out there that are very supportive of the Boy Scout Eagle Scout program,” he said.

repainting of both the interior and exterior of the water tower, Mertes told the board it needs to consider the possibility of a rate hike.

“To be realistic, the money coming in barely covers what we need to,” Mertes said. “With everything that’s down

the road, I can’t see how we’re going to avoid raising rates at some point.

It’s not something I ever wanted to say or wanted to do. It’s going to be unavoidable at some point because we won’t be able to fix anything.”

In other action, the board:

• Passed a new appropriations budget, which moved money into police and sewer operations.

An influx of money from the TIF district made the allocation possible.

• Passed the proposed tax levy, with a 4.9 percent increase, a practice that has continued from previous years.

• Extended the hours for burning leaves to 7 p.m. until the end of November.

• Discussed the continuing issues with the Second Street water problem. A permanent solution has not yet been determined, but the board is currently leaning toward an earth and berm dam.

By Dixie Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

OTTAWA — One tradition many Boy Scouts take on as they get older, is the project component of the Eagle Scout. To become an Eagle Scout, a Boy Scout designs a project on a massive scale which has community service in mind.

Kristopher Felte of Ottawa, son of Karen and John Felte Jr. and grandson of John Felte Sr. of Tonica, is currently completing his Eagle Scout project. His project was to design and build a handicapped accessible ramp to the Veterans Memorial in Ottawa’s Washington Park.

“I guess that being with the Scouts here we have done all the Memorial and Veterans Day services like that,” Kris Felte said. “In the years I had been doing it, you’d see people struggling to get up to the memorial. So guest speakers who may have been injured or the veterans who might have been injured could not make it to their place at the memorial.”

Felte began to think this

Tonica News photo/Dixie Schroeder

Kris Felte (left) discusses ramp rail placement with two volunteers.

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

Submit

The Tonica News encourages readers to submit news for publication in our paper. Special events, weddings, births, awards and honors, anniversaries, promotions, etc. are welcome items for the paper. Some fees may apply.

Schools, businesses, organizations and groups are encouraged to send information on activities and events. If you have attended a function or event and have a photo and/or news, please submit them.

Email to:

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Photos should be sent as an attachment.

Lostant From Page 1 “When I talked to Jeff Hedrick about it, he said it would probably take four poles to get over there. They cost about $5,000 a pole, plus the expense of the wiring and transformers,” McCaw said. “Plus if we get the three-phase in, we’d have to redo the meter sockets, the control panel, and we’d have to replace the pumps again. It’s pretty cost-prohibitive.”

McCaw said the cost was estimated “in the six figures.”

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Thank You

The party is over.

The cake is all gone.

But thanks to friends and family New memories live on.

Thanks for the many cards, gifts, flowers and calls we received for our 50th wedding anniversary.

A special thank you to our family for the dinner and celebration.

We had a great time.

Love and blessings, Mike and Linda Supan

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Sun., Dec. 8 • 2-4pm Refreshments, hot dogs, cookies and a goodie bag for each child.

Carriage rides from 2-5pm.

To help offset expenses we are having a 50/50 drawing that will take place on Dec. 8. Need not to be present to win.

Tickets are sold at Vic’s Clip and Buzz, No Problem Pub and Tonica Town and Country. Donations are welcomed.

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3 Obit/Records Friday, November 15, 2013 • The Tonica News • 3

Tonica Police Committee weighs possible litigation

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

TONICA — The Tonica Board Police Committee met in closed session on Oct. 30 to discuss some possible litigation.

Though village president Kevin Sluder was unable to give full details, he said the problem is a Tonica property owner in violation of at least two village ordinances.

The owner has received warnings from the vil-

Obituary Dorothy Hawley

lage police, but contends he is in compliance with all village ordinances.

The committee has decided to send copies of the ordinances in question to the owner and advised him to correct the issues or come before the board to plead his case at the next general board meeting on Nov. 18. He will have 30 days from the date of receiving the ordinances to comply or face legal action.

On top, a 1940s wind-up Hopalong Cassidy toy rests on the top shelf on one of Does’ displays.

The toy still works perfectly. At left, Does’ knife collection includes more than 600 pocket knives and assorted other pieces from throughout the years.

Tonica News office to close TONICA — The Tonica News will close its office in Tonica. The final day for the office to be open is Nov. 21.

While the office is closing, the Tonica News will continue its coverage of Tonica, Lostant, Leonore and the surrounding areas. No disruption in service will occur.

“Since Shaw Media purchased the Tonica News in December 2012, we have enjoyed meeting with folks from the area and covering the news,” said Tonica News Publisher Sam Fisher.

“While the decision to close the office was not an easy one, we want everyone to know we will continue to produce a newspaper in which area residents can look to for their local news coverage.”

Tonica News Editor Terri Simon agreed, adding it will be busi-

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ness as usual for the staff at the Tonica News, who will share an office with the Putnam County Record in Granville.

“Our staff writers at the Tonica News also report the news at the Putnam County Record,” Simon said.

“Like myself, those reporters are committed to continuing great coverage of the area — the people, places and things that are important to the folks in Tonica, Lostant and Leonore.”

The new mailing address for the Tonica News is Tonica News, P.O. Box 48, Granville, IL 61326. The phone number is 815-3392321. The email address — news@tonicanews. com — will remain the same.

Those with questions should call Simon at 815-875-4461, ext. 229, or email her at tsimon@ tonicanews.com.

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Tonica News photos/Ken Schroeder

Does From Page 1 “I love cars. I’ve bought and sold a lot over the years,” Does said. “This is one that won a lot of awards.

It’s a ‘65 Impala — had a 550 horse big block and 150 shot of nitrous on it. It won just about every car show I ever put it in.”

In and among the rest of his collections are a few antiques; standalone items he happened upon during his hunts for items for his

collections. On one shelf is a set of headphones and a microphone from the WLS radio station. Across the room from there is a full line of the Joe Camel, Camel cigarette collector’s sets, including the display case. An antique wooden-cased radio and a wooden wall phone sit close by.

One glass case holds several military mementos. Does’ father fought in Okinawa and his uncle served in Iwo Jima. The case contains flags and swords brought back from

Japan as well as medals and certificates of their achievements.

Does’ biggest collection is toys — mostly toy cars and trucks.

In addition to three glass cases in his workshop, he has a large room in his basement which acts almost like a shrine to old toys, some from before the 1920s.

“My grandson loves to come down here and play with Grandpa’s toys. He’ll get some down from the shelves and line them up and play,” Does said.

TONICA — Dorothy T. Hawley, 91, of Heritage Health Care in Streator, formerly of Tonica, died at 2:20 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2013, at Heritage Health Care.

Dorothy was born Sept. 13, 1922, in Chicago to Andrew and Helen (Szczesniak) Rakowski. She married Arthur Ross Hawley April 14,1944. He died Aug. 18, 1960.

She then married Henry Ploch.

She was a nanny for Dr. William Farley, a custodian for Tonica Grade School and a homemaker.

She is survived by two sons, Marty (Merlene) Hawley and Marvin (Joann) Hawley, both of Streator; 14 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Mary Jakubowski of Calumet City and Bonnie Stage of Alamagordo, N.M.; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her two husbands and two daughters, Marie Foltynewicz and Marcy Allen.

Funeral services will be at noon Nov. 16 in the Hurst Funeral Home in Tonica with Pastor Mark Nowakowski officiating.

Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery in Tonica.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to noon Nov. 16 in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.

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4 Biz Ag 4 • The Tonica News • Friday, November 15, 2013

Applebee’s in Peru remodeled Grand re-opening set for Nov. 19 PERU — Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar at 1507 36th St. in Peru has been recently remodeled with the official re-opening set for 11 a.m. Nov. 19.

On the menu: A remodeled interior with warmer color tones, contemporary design; features specific to the neighborhood the restaurant serves; service improvements; and new food and drink selections.

The Peru Applebee’s is owned and operated

by RMH Franchise Corporation, based out of Lincoln, Neb.

Tonica News photo/Ken Schroeder

Tonica Veteran Doyle Cate plays Taps following the 21-gun salute during Veterans Day ceremonies on Nov. 11.

Tonica observes Veterans Day TONICA — The village of Tonica honored its veterans during a Veterans Day ceremony led by the Tonica American Legion Russell-Zenor Post 260.

Legion member Doug Grieve led the services.

The guest speaker was Kevin Nowakowski, a sophomore student from LaSalle-Peru Township High School. Nowakowski read a transcript of comedian Red Skelton’s interpretation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

The ceremony ended with a 21-gun salute and Taps played by Legion member Doyle Cate.

Coffee and refreshments were served at the Legion hall after the ceremony.

TVFD responds to weekend fires TONICA — The Tonica Volunteer Fire Department had a busy weekend.

The first fire call came in at 12:42 p.m. Nov. 8.

The incident was a field fire at 1815 East 1600 Road, along the PutnamLaSalle County line. The fire started from sparks

from an auger bearing on a combine. The fire was limited to four and onehalf acres of mostly harvested field, and damage was kept to a minimum.

At 12:27 p.m. Nov. 11, the department responded to a vehicle fire at Tonica Nursery on Route 251 in Tonica. Respond-

ers found a dump truck nearly engulfed in flames at the scene. Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire quickly and prevented the blaze from spreading to a nearby garage. No injuries were reported. The fire remains under investigation.

Meeting Calendar Nov. 18 7 p.m., Tonica Village Board, Tonica Village Hall.

Nov. 19 6:45 p.m., Lostant School Board, Lostant Grade School.

TONICA — Prior to the October fire department meeting, members participated in the annual door-to-door town collection. Tonica Fire Department provides fire, rescue and ambulance services without local taxation.

Donations help keep the department operating.

Chief Todd Anderson thanked members Woody Olson, Alec McCleary, Terry McCleary, Rick Turri and Dan Francisco for helping prepare for the Insurance Services Audit (ISO). Turri presented an overview of the ISO audit requirements and procedures.

In other news: • Travis Pusser was a guest and expressed interest in joining the TVFD department.

• A card of thanks was received from a local family for the rapid TVFD response to their alarm ensuring their family’s safety.

• During September, there were one fire call, two accidents, six ambu-

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As part of the remodel process, before bringing in the new artwork, Applebee’s was able to auction off the older décor and memorabilia. The location will announce the amount raised and to be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois at its ribbon cutting ceremony at 10:30 a.m.

Nov. 19.

“We are very excited about the new remodel and proud to be part of the Peru community. We hope that our remodel reflects our commitment to keeping the community fun and new,” said Pino.

“We invite everyone to come in and see what’s new.”

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“Applebee’s is breathing new life into our restaurants, giving them stronger connections to their individual neighborhoods and providing our guests with renewed experiences,” said Katie Pino, director of operations for the Peru area.

The most noticeable changes at the revitalized Peru restaurant include the over-sized, contemporary awnings that highlight the façade. Inside, Applebee’s removed the popculture artifacts and added local photos and murals. Wall images also depict area school sports teams, and local community groups and organizations.

lance and one good intention call. Emergency calls year to date through Sept.

30 are 123.

• The fire department Deer Night is scheduled for Nov. 23 and will follow a similar schedule as last year.

• The air pack that was out of service has been repaired and is now back in service.

• Turri, in his position of assistant instructor of the L-P Area Vocational Fire Science Program, reported TVFD donated five older SCBA masks to the L-P Area Vocational Fire Science Program.

• Anderson noted a new public law just now in effect allows fire districts that provide ambulance service to levy a new tax through referendum.

• Radio Operator Bernie Trudeau donated a pair of EMS pants and department shirt to the TVFD. • Jim Breit replaced a damaged exit light in the station. Francisco and Derek Keutzer did some

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Taxes and gratuity not included. Alcoholic beverages not included. Valid at LaSalle Denny’s location. Selection and prices may vary. Only original coupon accepted. Photocopied and Internet printed or purchased coupons are not valid. No substitutions. Expires 12/15/13. ©2012 D HO, LLC MP

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yard work. Olson and Francisco attended the Walmart 9/11 tribute.

• The fire department will be hosting an EMT basic class.

• EMS training covering extrication and patient immobilization was attended by seven EMTs and three drivers. Monthly fire and rescue training classes were conducted

by Jeff Pugh.

• A preplan walkthrough of Northern Partners was attended by 12 members.

A preplan walkthrough of the Dauber Co. complex was attended by 12 members. Another preplan walkthrough of the Fike property was attended by 15 firefighters. The property is in Oglesby Fire District with Tonica Fire Department is Auto-Aid. • Turri attended a fivehour hazardous materials awareness instructors update class in Rockford.

The class is required by Illinois Emergency Management Agency for all hazardous materials instructors.

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5 Perspective Friday, November 15, 2013 • The Tonica News • 5

The Editorial Page The Tonica News Sam R Fisher

Terri Simon

Publisher

Editor

A story with no words The morning of the interview, I spent a half hour or so developing some questions for this World War II vet. With my interviewing skills a bit rusty, I wanted to have some questions jotted down, so I could spend my interview time really getting a feel for what this veteran was saying and feeling.

Sounds crazy — I mean I’ve done thousands of interviews in my career, but I was a little bit nervous as I waited for him to answer my knock on his door. Slowly, the door opened, and he greeted me with a broad yet seemingly shy smile. As we shook hands, I looked into his eyes, and I could tell he was a bit nervous, too. After he invited me inside, the two of us sat down in his kitchen, where he had some World Terri War II memorabilia spread out on the Simon table—a few photos, some medals, a couple of papers he wanted me to see.

Before jumping into an interview, I like to chat a bit with the subject of the story. It’s just small talk, but it usually helps to relax the person I’m interviewing as well as myself. I was hoping to learn a little about the man, so I could better write the story about the veteran. Weather, crops, the upcoming winter, his family — kids, grandchildren, his dog that was doing circles around my feet — 10 minutes of small talk usually creates a better interview, a better story.

“So, where do we start?” I asked the 87-yearold man as I finally began my interview. “There’s a lot I’d like to know, but maybe the first question should be this: ‘What is the most memorable moment you have of World War II?’” Personally, I thought it was a fairly innocent question, but I was wrong. The man’s eyes darted up from the table. As those aged eyes of his met mine, I saw his expression change. Like a bullet penetrating someone’s soul, his eyes stared not at me but through me. Quickly he averted his eyes and looked off into the distance.

A good reporter will know when to speak and when to let the silence prevail. I sat quietly, but what I saw next was bigger than any story I could ever write.

With his eyes still staring off into the distance, I realized he was seeing something I’d never understand — something that happened long ago, yet something that probably happened in his memory all the time. Without uttering a sound, the corners of this proud veteran’s mouth became taut, and I saw his chin begin to tremble ever so slightly.

Those piercing eyes of a few moments earlier had filled with tears, and a single tear rolled down his cheek and dropped onto the plastic tablecloth.

A lump immediately formed in my own throat, and the tears in my own eyes quickly matched his.

“I’m sorry,” I said, for lack of anything more profound.

He shook his head and held up his hand as if to dismiss my apology.

“No. I’m sorry,” he said. “I thought I could do this. I thought I could talk about it, but I don’t think I can. I guess you ain’t gonna get much of a story from me.” He looked down at the items on the table, seeming to know his journey through World War II would remain a private one. “I guess I owe you an apology,” he said.

“Sir, you don’t owe me anything,” I said with tears still brimming in my own eyes. “You’ve said more to me this afternoon without saying a word.

If anybody owes anybody anything, it is myself and others in this country who owe you a world of gratitude for your service and how that service has impacted your life.”

Veterans. We have no idea what lives in the hearts and memories of those who have so valiantly served this country. It’s time we do the honorable thing and offer our most heartfelt gratitude to our nation’s veterans.

Tonica News Editor Terri Simon can be reached at tsimon@tonicanews.com. This essay, along with others like it, can be found in Simon’s new book, “Grandma’s Cookie Jar.” available at local merchants, online at www.boxingdaybooks.com or by emailing Simon.

Letters to the Editor should not be more than 500 words in length. Only one person can sign a Letter to the Editor.

The author of the letter must include his/her name, hometown and telephone number. The author’s name and hometown will be published, however, the telephone number is only used to verify the authenticity of the author’s signature and will not be published. Unsigned letters are never read or published. No letter will be published until The Tonica News contacts the author of the letter to verify the signature. The Tonica News reserves the right to edit or refuse any Letter to the Editor.

On the street

What is your favorite holiday — Thanksgiving or Christmas? Why is that so?

“I think Christmas is because of all the presents, and you get to see some family members.”

Vincent Rich, Rutland

“I say Thanksgiving because of all the food.

It’s great.”

Danyelle Engler, Wenona

“I would probably say Christmas because I know more people. It’s more festive. Thanksgiving’s just get together and eat.”

Chad Kreiser, Lostant

“Probably Christmas. Just because I have a child.

It’s cool to see them open presents.”

David Bradach, Tonica

“It’s Christmas because I actually live out of town, and that is the holiday I get to go and spend with my family.”

Katie Whalen, Fountain, Colo., formerly of Tonica

“I think Thanksgiving is a little more commercialized now. It’s getting to be the point of more people want to shop than spend time with the family. Probably Christmas is a lot better.

More time to spend with family.”

Dick Novak, Tonica

Honest Abe and cable TV “You can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time.”

Everyone is familiar with this quote, often mistakenly attributed to P.T. Barnum, but in fact muttered first by Abraham Lincoln.

It’s obvious to me from that questionable opinion (not to mention the fact that Lincoln died in 1865) that Abe was never employed by an electronic entertainment/visual media conglomerate ... because had he worn a stovepipe hat with a satellite TV or cable company logo emblazoned on the front, the last part of that quote would have read ... ”but with the proper strategic marketing campaign, I can fool nearly everyone 99 percent of the time.” If employers such as these had padded Abraham’s resume, “Honest” Abe would have been a misnomer, and instead of The Rail Splitter, his other much more colorful nickname, “A-Linc” would forever after be known among his circle of friends, and perhaps throughout history as, “The Co-axial Cable Splitter.”

Though well documented as a possessor of extraordinary oratorical skills, it is an absolute impossibility (even at the height of his popularity) that Lincoln could have convinced me of the need for The Hopper (a DVR which, as the incredulous announcer voice informs us, can record up to 2,000

Chuck Mason COMMENTARY HOURS of your favorite programming).

That, for my math-challenged friends, is just over 83 days straight (without sleep) of horribly written and acted, cliché riddled, recycled joke filled, low brow productions masquerading as entertainment. To further illustrate the ridiculousness of this claim as an attractive feature to consumers, one would have to listen to Bo Donaldson and The Heywoods sing “Billy, Don’t Be a Hero” 30,000 times to equal the time capacity of a single Hopper.

Figuring in my average of (at minimum) eight hours a day at work, five hours of sleep, four combined hours of reading and/or listening to music, and five hours of other various necessary survival activities, that leaves me with about two hours a day (if I don’t encounter a slow coal train on my way to or from work) for TV viewing. Out of those two hours, 35 minutes are commercials (which I am theoretically paying to view, even though the advertisers themselves have doled out a sizeable chunk of change to have them broadcast) for products I have no

interest in ever purchasing, or for more unappealing (and if you believe the hype, highly anticipated) ridiculously-scripted network projects. At that rate of 85 minutes per day, one full Hopper would take me almost 3.8 years to fully view. The Voyager space probe travelled to Jupiter in less time.

The other thing old Abe the satellite TV guy would have a difficult time making me believe, is that his company provides me and my family with a great entertainment for the dollar value. Let’s see, I have (more or less) 400 channels to choose from, half of those broadcast in a language I can’t understand. There are (it seems) 50 selections for 24-hour news, which really isn’t news as much as it is opinions from people I don’t trust. Multiple religious, food, shopping and “Big Bang Theory” rerun selections round out the majority of what’s left. So it comes down to a monthly bill of $130 for a few hours of programming on the History Channel, a couple of sporting events and “Austin City Limits.”

Ol’ Abe should feel lucky he was just the president, because the Lincoln-Douglas debates are gonna be nothing compared to my call to customer service.

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

6 Life 6 • The Tonica News • Friday, November 15, 2013

Community Christmas sale LOSTANT – The Lostant Community Library will hold an All Things Christmas Sale from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Nov. 17. The sale, which will benefit the library’s summer program, will be at the American Legion Hall on Main Street.

Trees, ornaments, decorations, lights, stuffed animals to place under

the tree, serving dishes and Lenox Christmas collector plates are just some of the items that will be available. Most items are gently-used, but there will be some new.

Free hot punch and sweets will also be for sale. Questions may be directed to the library at 815-368-3530.

TVFD to hold annual chili supper/deer night TONICA – The Tonica Volunteer Fire Department will hold its annual Chili Supper/Deer Night starting at 4:30 p.m. Nov. 23 at the fire station.

The all-you-can-eat chili supper runs from 5 to 7 p.m. and costs $5 per person.

Hunters are encouraged to bring in their deer for

the contest. Cash prizes will be awarded for the Chief’s Choice, the Biggest Doe and the Largest Deer for Youths 13 and under. Prizes will be paid out at 8 p.m.

An area trapper will be there with displays for viewing. The fire station is located at 507 N. First St. in Tonica.

Holiday entertainment UTICA — The Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center at Starved Rock State Park will present The Legacy Girls Christmas Show at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 9. Guests will enjoy a lunch buffet followed by the Legacy Girls. Tickets are $32 per person, and reservations are required.

On Dec. 16 and 17, the Lodge will present Christmas With Frank. Peter

Oprisko brings his tribute to Frank Sinatra back to the Lodge with a Christmas twist. Showtimes are at 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Dec. 16 and at 11:30 a.m. on Dec. 17. Ticket prices are $32 for matinee shows including a lunch buffet and $37 for evening shows including a dinner buffet and wine tasting.

For more information, 815-220-7386.

Trolley tours available UTICA — Learn about the history and legends of Starved Rock Lodge and Starved Rock State Park in Utica. Board a trolley at the Lodge and enjoy a 90-minute, narrated tour by one of the Lodge’s knowledgeable guides.

The tour includes stops

at Starved Rock’s Visitor Center and Illinois Waterway Visitor Center. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and $8 for children 10 and under.

For more information and to make a reservation, call 815-220-7386 or visit www.starvedrocklodge. com.

Bailey Creek 4-H Club kicks off new year TONICA — The Bailey Creek Kids 4-H Club kicked off the 2013-2014 year with a meeting on Sept. 22. The leaders were introduced and new 4-Hers and Cloverbuds were welcomed.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Claire Stillwell. The 4-H pledge was led by Logan Johnson. The 4-H fair, state fair and summer fundraisers were discussed.

New officers were elected to represent the Club for this year. Club president is Amber Schiffbauer, vice president is Camille Carlson, secretary is Bryan Stillwell, treasurer is Cole Haynes and reporter is Brooke Schiffbauer. The scrapbook committee is Erin Leschewski and Carlson.

During National 4-H Week, the club officers

Photo contributed

Bailey Creek Kids 4-H Club’s new officers are Bryan Stillwell (left), Amber Schiffbauer, Brooke Schiffbauer and Cole Haynes. visited Ms. Patyk’s fourthgrade class and Mrs. Anderson’s third-grade class at Tonica Grade School to share infor-

LaSalle — Nov. 19 — Storytime Express is an interactive mix of stories complemented with a variety of engaging activities like crafts, flannel boards, rhymes, songs and puppets. It is formatted to introduce children to the library and teach early literacy skills. The shorter, 30-minute length and fast pace make it perfect for active children with shorter attention spans, and the express is a great way for busy parents to share special times with their children. A bit of the program time will be set aside to help families find just the right books to check-out.

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

LaSalle — Nov. 21 — “Journey From The Heart” The LaSalle Public Library will hold a cel-

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ebration of Native American History month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 21, when Dennis Swiftdeer Paige presents a family program about many aspects of native North American cultures, underscoring the link these cultures provide between nature and human society. Colorful and captivating, Swiftdeer presents circle dances, animal impressions, stories, songs, drumming and sharing of the Medicine bag.

Ancient wisdom coupled with humor of the First Nations will inspire, inform and engage the audience.

This is a free program, open to the public; it is recommended for children over the age of 6 years and their families. Registration is not required but always appreciated. Funding for this program was made possible by District 122 LaSalle Schools. The LaSalle Public Library is located at 305 Marquette, LaSalle. For more information, contact Mrs. Hicks

at Lincoln Junior High School or call the library at 815-223-2341.

Lostant — Nov. 19 — Families First, a state funded early childhood grant, is a program for families with children ages birth to 3. It is sponsored by the Oglesby Early Childhood Programs. Children will read stories, sing songs, learn finger plays, do an easy art project and have a snack. The program also includes field trips and parent education meetings. Families First meets every Tuesday from 10 to 10:45 a.m.

Library Time begins at 10 a.m. every Tuesday when school is in session For children birth through school age and a caregiver.

Enjoy story time with Miss Sue as well as a craft, music and dance, a snack and various fun activities like puppet play, games, rhythm band and more.

For more information, call the library at 815-368-3530.

‘Hallelujah Chorus’ singers needed Local musicians are working to perform a random act of culture event at a local business at 1 p.m.

Dec. 7.

Adult and high school age singers are needed to perform

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Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus.”

Individuals and choirs from anywhere in the area are invited to participate.

There will be one practice at Illinois Valley Community College at

7 p.m. Dec. 2. Singers are encouraged to attend the rehearsal.

For information on participating, call Chris Kelsey at 224-2462 or email csing_kelsey@comcast. net.

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Four-H is open to students age 5 through 18. If interested in joining, call Tricia at 815-993-5253 for more information.

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mation about the Bailey Creek Kids and the 4-H program. The students received a goodie bag with information and prizes.

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8 History/Class 8 • The Tonica News • Friday, November 15, 2013

November is Winter Weather Preparedness Month in Illinois

Menus Lunch Lostant School Nov. 18 — TGS lunch-

Breakfast Nov. 18 — Donut, cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Nov. 19 — French toast, cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Nov. 20 — Omelet, cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Nov. 21 — Cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Nov. 22 — Breakfast pizza, cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Lunch Nov. 18 — Tacos in a bag, corn, salsa, pineapple, milk.

Nov. 19 — Pulled pork, mashed potatoes, corn, pears, milk.

Nov. 20 — Corn dog, fries, mixed fruit, veggies and dip, milk.

Nov. 21 — Pasta, lettuce salad, corn, peaches, milk.

Nov. 22 — Pizza/ bosco, lettuce salad, carrots, mixed fruit, milk.

Tonica Grade School Breakfast Nov. 18 — Oatmeal with dried fruit, chocolate chips or brown sugar, cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Nov. 19 — Pancakes, cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Nov. 20 — Scrambled eggs, cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Nov. 21 — Waffle, cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

Nov. 22 — Bagel with cream cheese, cereal, yogurt or toast, fruit, juice, milk.

able ham or turkey, cheese, crackers, cucumber slice and carrots, grapes, fruit bread, ranch, milk.

Nov. 19 — Pancake and sausage on a stick, tri taters, apple sauce, yogurt, syrup, ketchup, milk.

Nov. 20 — Cheese bosco sticks, marinara cup, romaine lettuce, fruit side kick, graham crackers, salad dressing milk.

Nov. 21 — Turkey slice, mashed potatoes, green beans, peaches, cranberry sauce, stuffing, dinner roll, pie, gravy, margarine cup, milk.

Nov. 22 — Hot ham cheese slice bun or goldfish bread, baked beans, flavored chex mix, pears, mayo, mustard, ketchup, milk.

Putnam County Community Center Nov. 18 — Chili con carne with beans, steamed carrots, pineapple chunks, apple juice, corn bread.

Nov. 19 — Barbeque, cole slaw, chips, dessert.

Nov. 20 — Roast turkey with stuffing, jasmine rice, stir fry vegetables, spinach salad with dressing, pineapple chunks, cranberry sauce, dinner roll.

Nov. 21 — Roast pork, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, rolls and butter, dessert.

Nov. 22 — Liver and onions, mashed potatoes, lima beans, citrus cup, wheat bread.

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

Visit us online at www.tonicanews.com.

SPRINGFIELD — Frosty temperatures have already destroyed the blooms on many summer plants, a sure sign that winter weather isn’t far away. While it’s not yet time to start shoveling snow, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) are encouraging people to begin preparing now for extreme cold, snow and ice.

IEMA and the NWS will highlight winter weather preparedness throughout November as part of their annual Winter Weather Preparedness campaign.

“In Illinois, it’s a question of when snow, ice and sub-zero temperatures will hit, not if they will occur,” said IEMA Director Jonathon Monken. “Getting caught unprepared may not be just inconvenient, it could be dangerous.

Now’s the time to take a few minutes to put together your home and vehicle emergency supply kits and review the steps you should take to stay safe during hazardous winter weather.”

According to the NWS, there were eight deaths related to extreme cold temperatures nationwide in calendar year 2012. That

number is significantly lower than the 10-year national average of 27 fatalities. All of the 2012 cold-related fatalities occurred outdoors, including three deaths in Illinois.

Since 1995, 134 fatalities related to cold temperatures have occurred in Illinois, making it the second-leading cause of weatherrelated deaths in Illinois in the past 18 years.

“There are several dangerous health conditions that can occur in winter weather,” said Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck. “It’s important to watch for signs of being too cold or over exertion.

Hypothermia, when a person’s body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit, can occur both outdoors and indoors and can be fatal. Frostbite, when skin becomes stiff and numb, can cause tissue damage. And watch for signs of over exertion, such as chest pain, when shoveling snow. Know the warning signs of dangerous cold weather health conditions in order to stay safe and healthy during the winter.”

To help Illinois residents prepare for winter, IEMA, the NWS and the

History ... according to The Tonica News 10 years ago Trick or treat hours for Oct. 31 were announced. Tonica and Lostant held their event from 6 to 8 p.m. and Leonore held their event form 5 to 7 p.m.

Tonica American Legion Post 260 members walked the highway to pick up litter on Nov. 1. This was the fourth and final walk for the year.

On Oct. 10, a vehicle driven

by Leanne Bartman of Mark was struck at the intersection of CH 700 N and CH 1175E. The driver of the second vehicle was Thomas Pierski of Peru. Passengers in the Bartman car were Ashley Bartman, Maria Gensini and Angela Kuhn.

Shane Hines, Tammy Drinkwine

and Mike Glover were able to pull or assist all four women out of the vehicle and render aid until paramedics and officials arrived.

20 years ago Joe Prostko of Tonica with Classical Justice, a yearling paint horse, won the Solid Golf Futurity at the National show held in Springfield on Oct. 1. Julie Prostko was the owner of J.P. Quarter Horses and she was assisted by her husband, Joe, and they train horses to be shown.

The Prostkos show horses in Iowa, Wisconsin, Indiana and Illinois.

The Tonica Commercial Association held a meeting Oct. 18 at the Village Inn. John Davis, state director of the National Federation of

––––––––––– Classifieds –––––––––– General Terms and Policies

- 200 Employment

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.

232 • Business Opportunities

CLASSIFIED LINE AD & LEGAL DEADLINES: • Friday Paper deadline Friday before by 3pm We Accept Call 815-875-4461 classified@bcrnews.com YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU MIGHT FIND right here in the Tonica News Classified! You could find furniture, appliances, pets, musical instruments, tools, anything. You might even find a kitchen sink!

********** 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

American Red Cross developed a winter weather preparedness guide that covers winter weather terms and tips for staying safe at home, in the car and at school. The guide is available on the Ready Illinois website at www.Ready.Illinois.gov or by calling 217-785-9925.

“Preparing well in advance of winter weather is really the best way to cope when snow, ice and cold temperatures affect us,” said Chris Miller, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the NWS office in Lincoln. “Now is the time to prepare your vehicle and house for winter conditions. Make sure you have blankets, non-perishable food, boots, extra clothing and other items in your car to ride out the storm in case you are stranded or waiting for a tow. At home, make sure you have enough essential items to ride out a storm, in some cases without power, for three days at the very least.”

For more information about winter weather preparedness, including the Weathering Winter guide from the Illinois Department of Public Health, visit the Ready Illinois website at www.Ready.Illinois. gov.

- 400 Merchandise 450 • Under $1000 ************ 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 LAKE THUNDERBIRD 1 Clearwater Point, Putnam.

Saturday, November 16, 8am-3pm.

ESTATE SALE There will be furniture, household items, TVs, tools, collector James Beam bottles, and much more

460 • Garage Sales PRINCETON 454 Park Avenue East (Gene Smith's).

Everyday: Saturday November 16 thru Saturday, November 23; 9am-4:30 pm.

Sale may be extended.

Large Garage & In Home Sale-Benefit for Lukemia Patient.

Variety of hardly used, never used, new & old items. Some are left over inventory from closed business. Too many to list but come & see a unique & rare early art deco fancy 1928 floor lamp. Call 815879-8966 for after hours viewing. Sales & donations go toward alternative treatment for Margie Christensen for a rare form of lymphatic granular lukemia. Sponsored by Brenda Cook ADVERTISE GARAGE SALES OR YARD SALES! The Bureau County Republican 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!”

- 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

Independent Business, was guest speaker. He spoke on issues facing small businesses. Robert Folty was elected president, Al Stremlau was elected secretary/treasurer.

LaSalle-Peru High School hosted its eighth grade open house for students and their parents on Oct. 27.

Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church of Leonore held a pancake and sausage breakfast on Nov. 14.

There was a bake sale, raffle and door prizes.

St. Bede Academy hosted its eighth-grade student and parents night on Nov. 2.

Mr. and Mrs. Howard Ryan of Tonica celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with dinner at a restaurant in Downers Grove with their family.

999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

NOTICE Public Notice is hereby given that on October 29, 2013, a certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk of LaSalle County, Illinois, setting forth the names and post office addresses of all of the persons owning, conducting and transacting the business known as Savvy Tees and Apparel located at 11 Bailey Creek Dr., Tonica, IL 61370.

Dated: Nov. 5, 2013. /s/Mark Coons Applicant Published in the Tonica News Nov. 8, 15 and 22, 2013.

SINNING, Deceased.

Notice is given of the death of ALVIN C. SINNING, of Oglesby, Illinois. Letters of office were issued on October 29, 2013, to DONNA THURWANGER,887 N. 2401st Rd, 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.

Andrew Skoog Clerk of the 13th Judicial Circuit Court Ottawa, Illinois Published in the Tonica News Nov. 8, 15 and 22, 2013.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT LASALLE COUNTY, ILLINOIS ESTATE OF ) ALVIN C. SINNING, ) DECEASED. ) NO. 2013-P-205 PUBLICATION FOR CLAIMS CLAIM NOTICE Estate of ALVIN C.

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• Up to 5 lines of copy • 3 items maximum in ad • 1 ad per week, per household • Private party sales only • Excludes services, firearms & animal sales E-mail items for sale to: classified@ bcrnews.com