TON-11-29-2013

1 Front Volume 140 No. 40

Friday, November 29, 2013

The Tonica News

Single Copy Cost 50¢

Get immunized for flu season

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

OTTAWA — The flu season is fast approaching and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) warns this could be another busy year for flu viruses. There are several ways you can avoid the flu bug this year.

The most important step is a flu vaccination.

The CDC recommends an annual flu shot to prevent

contracting the influenza virus. The worst months for the flu are typically January and February, but it’s important to be vaccinated early.

“In the past, the flu was mostly prevalent during January and February, but now we’re seeing cases all year round,” LaSalle County Health Department Educator Leslie Dougherty said. “It can hit at any time.”

The upcoming season’s flu vaccine will protect against the influenza viruses research indicates will be most common during the season.

This includes two Influenza A viruses (H1N1, H3N2) and an Influenza B virus.

Flu shots for adults are $25. Medicare will be billed for persons who receive the influenza vaccine and show Medicare

Part B eligibility. Medicaid will be billed for persons who receive the influenza vaccine and must provide eligibility.

Insurance eligibility must be paid upon receiving the influenza vaccine, a receipt will be provided for person to turn into their insurance company. No doctor order is required. Children 6 months through 17 years must be accompanied by

a parent or guardian.

There is one last flu clinic scheduled for the year at the Health Department at 717 East Etna Road in Ottawa from 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 19. Immunizations are also available at many local pharmacies and from family doctors.

To protect yourself from the virus, avoid exposure to sick people.

Wash your hands several times a day with an

anti-bacterial soap. Avoid touching your nose, eyes or mouth.

If you do get sick, limit your contact with other people. Stay at home at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to receive prescriptions or medical treatment. Clean and disinfect any surfaces where viruses may collect. Your doctor can also prescribe anti-viral medications.

Same-sex marriage comes to Illinois

By Ken Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

OTTAWA — Starting in June 2014, same-sex couples will be able to obtain marriage licenses in Illinois. Currently, those couples have been able to get civil union licenses through county clerk offices throughout the state.

LaSalle County Clerk JoAnn Carretto said her office has issued 42 civil union applications since the civil union legislation went into effect in June 2011. There were 24 applications filed during that year, with 11 filed in 2012 and seven filed through Nov. 22 this year. The civil union application and license is returned to his office and processed just like a marriage license would be.

Once the new same-sex marriage license becomes effective in June, many county clerks do not expect any additional paperwork or expense to their office, although Carretto is operating on a wait-and-see basis.

“At this time, that remains to be seen. We have yet to get any information from the state on changes to the application form used and any other changes that would require changes to our software,” Carretto said.

See Marriage Page 3

Tonica News photo/Dixie Schroeder

Jessica Schneider, left and Monica Kreiser check people in as they come to dinner.

Holiday traditions observed at Tonica Grade School by

Dixie Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

TONICA — According to the village of Tonica website, the population of Tonica is 750 and growing. On Nov. 21, 420 of that same population were fed at the Tonica Grade School annual Thanksgiving dinner.

Each year, Tonica Grade School hosts two special dinners where parents, grandparents and guardians can come have a meal with their children while at school. One is held in

the spring right before summer vacation while the second is the annual Thanksgiving dinner.

This year’s Thanksgiving dinner featured the traditional turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetables, bread, pumpkin pie or cookie and drink. Michelle Carmean, cafeteria manager, and Rose Stavarkas, head cook, had plenty of extra help to create the meal.

They were in at 5 a.m. Carrie Colmane, a part-time cook, and volunteers helped make the meal.

Inside

Vol. 140 No. 40 One Section - 8 Pages

Marathon man See Page 6 © The Tonica News

“We’ve been working since the beginning of school where we could,” Carmean said.

“Every year we do a turkey dinner for the students and their family. Then we do a picnic in the summer before school ends. The students have to sign up with who is coming. But it is growing so much, we might have to limit it next year. It’s been in the 360 to 380 the last couple of years.”

They also have special assistance from the Tonica Grade

Bailey Creek Kids 4-H’ers See Page 7

School Student Council. Members assisted by welcoming visitors and students, serving food and cleaning up after people left during each setting.

Becky Schmidt, a Student Council member, enjoys the good feelings this day brings.

“I like to help the people carry their trays. I think it’s really good to help people,” Schmidt said.

Another Student Council member agreed.

See TGS Page 2

2 Local 2 • The Tonica News • Friday, November 29, 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.

Lostant school board rearranges staff positions LOSTANT — The hiring and re-arrangement of office and cafeteria staff was the main focus during the Lostant Grade School Board meeting on Nov. 19.

The board accepted the resignation of Gerilynn Smith as bookkeeper effective Nov. 4.

Jennifer Tooley surrendered her position as

part-time assistant cook to increase her current assignment as part-time administrative assistant to full-time effective Dec. 2. Tooley will receive a dollar per hour pay raise in the process. Physical education instructor Stephanie Ziel will take on the duties of part-time assistant cook.

The board also directed board President Deann Ioerger to hire a temporary part-time superintendent for twoto-three days a week.

School superintendent Sandra Malahy is addressing some personal health problems which will require attention during the school year.

In other action, the board: • Approved the proposed 2013-14 levy.

This levy includes an increase of 1.0932 percent.

• Amended the LifeSafety project list to include problems with the kitchen grease trap, which is currently not working. An application

for a school maintenance grant was approved to alleviate the problem.

• Authorized Ioerger to sign activity fund and Imprest fund checks in the absence of the superintendent.

• Approved the use of the gymnasium for Dec. 15 for Monti’s Martial Arts for the purpose of a demonstration.

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

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

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:

news@tonicanews.com.

Photos should be sent as an attachment.

TGS From Page 1 Brian Stillwell said, “All we pretty much do is stand by and help people carry stuff. I like helping people so that’s why I offered to do this.”

The Student Council members helped with each setting and then ate after everyone else was done. The adviser for the TGS Student Council is Shannon Marcinkus.

There are three seatings for the meal: kindergarten through second-graders go first; third through fifth grade go second; and sixth through eighth grade go

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Tonica News P.O. Box 86,Tonica, IL 61370

third. Each lunch seating has parents, grandparents or guardian eating with their children.

“My daughter is in fifth grade she’s been going here since first grade,” Ben Yarger said. “This is actually my first year in a couple years cause my grandparents came the last couple of years. We kind of rotate.”

“It’s cool,” Sam Zimmerman, a fifth-grader said.

“It’s nice to be able to come and have lunch with my son once in a while,” Eric Zimmerman, dad to Sam said.

“We have been coming since kindergarten,” said Julie Milota.

“It’s his third year.”

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TGS student Jersey Morscheiser said, “I think this is cool.

My mom Shannon, dad Nick, little sister Jemma are here. I didn’t like the green beans. But the pumpkin pie was really good.”

“It’s pretty amazing. It was nice to get together with the kids for lunch at the school. Our boys

have already come and gone, they went outside to play already,” Shannon Morscheiser said.

Tonica Grade School Superintendent and Principal John Suarez enjoys the yearly tradition.

“I think that whenever we can open our doors to the community and share a meal it is

a great thing. I know it is especially nice to take a moment and take stock in what is important. The parents and the school form the same goals and that is to help the students.

It is especially important this time of year to give thanks and that is what the turkey dinner is for,” he said.

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Tonica News photo/Dixie Schroeder

Third-grader Hannah Richardson is enjoying her pumpkin pie with mother Pauline at the annual Tonica Grade School turkey dinner held on Nov. 21.

3 Obit Records Friday, November 29, 2013 • The Tonica News • 3

Marseilles memorial honors fallen soldiers MARSEILLES — Not all war memorials stand in Washington, D.C. The Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial stands in Marseilles on the banks of the Illinois River.

The wall was dedicated

in 2004 to those who have lost their lives in worldwide conflicts since 1979.

Every June, the names of the newly-fallen are added to the wall during the Illinois Motorcycle

Freedom Run. The soldiers, their family and friends are honored during this yearly event.

Thousands of motorcyclists honor the fallen.

The memorial sits on land donated and adja-

cent to the IV Cellular headquarters. Since its creation, people have left mementos and tributes at the memorial for the fallen soldiers. Due to the amount of treasures left behind, IV Cellu-

lar turned part of their lobby into the Middle East Conflicts Memorial Museum.

The Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial is located at 200 Riverfront Drive, Marseilles.

Madigan warns residents about ‘storm chasers’ Attorney General investigators assist law enforcement to combat repair-related scams SPRINGFIELD — Following devastating tornadoes and severe storms that raced across Illinois on Nov. 17, Attorney General Lisa Madigan urged residents to be on alert for home repair con artists looking to exploit homeowners and local businesses needing repairs due to stormrelated destruction and damage.

Madigan warned of home repair scammers who follow media accounts and quickly move into affected areas to take advantage of people. Madigan noted these “storm chasers” use the opportunity to pressure people into making impulsive, often expensive, decisions about cleanup and construction work. Madigan encouraged local residents and business owners to call local law enforcement agencies and her office’s Consumer Fraud Hotline (800-386-5438) to report any suspicious activity. Investigators with her office, who already have been assisting local authorities in Washington, Ill., since Nov. 17, will look into complaints

received about contractors.

“In the wake of this weekend’s devastating storms, communities face a long recovery process,” Madigan said. “During this challenging time, I encourage area residents to be cautious and on alert for scammers trying to take advantage of people in need of assistance.”

Seven Illinois counties have been declared disaster areas including Champaign, Grundy, LaSalle, Massac, Tazewell, Washington and Woodford counties. Madigan recommended verifying contractors in these areas have all necessary licenses, insurance and permits, and she encouraged taking extra caution before making any decisions to repair or rebuild damaged or destroyed property by avoiding rushing into signing a contract or making an upfront payment.

Madigan offered these additional tips to residents and businesses from being duped by dishonest contractors: • Be wary of contractors who go door to door

to offer repair services.

Ask for recommendations from people you know and trust, and whenever possible, use established local contractors.

• Call the Attorney General’s (http://illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/ about/hotlines.html) Consumer Fraud Hotline to check out a contractor and to learn if any complaints have been filed against a particular business.

• Even if there is a need to act quickly, shop around for the best deal.

Get written estimates from multiple contractors, and don’t be rushed into a deal.

• Get all of the terms of a contract in writing, and obtain a copy of the signed contract.

• Never make full payment until all the work has been completed to your satisfaction.

• Never pay in cash.

• Be aware that you have the right to cancel a contract within three business days if you signed it, based on the contractor’s visit to your home.

• In the case of disaster repair, you have an

“During this challenging time, I encourage area residents to be cautious and on alert for scammers trying to take advantage of people in need of assistance.”

Lisa Madigan, Illinois Attorney General

additional right to cancel. If your insurance carrier denies coverage, you have the right to cancel the contract within five days of when your insurance carrier denies your coverage.

• Ask to see required state and local permits and licenses. Insurance adjusters and roofers must be licensed by state agencies. If the contractor does not have a required license, or if the name on the license doesn’t match the name on the contractor’s business card or equipment, that should raise a red flag.

Madigan reminded consumers that the Illi-

nois Home Repair and Remodeling Act requires contractors to furnish customers with written contracts for any repair or remodeling work costing more than $1,000. A contract must be signed by both the customer and the contractor. The law also requires contractors to carry at least minimum amounts of insurance for property damage, bodily injury and improper home repair. Contractors also must provide consumers with an informational pamphlet titled (http://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/consumers/homerep0505c.pdf) “Home Repair: Know Your Consumer Rights.”

Time to get ready for Old Man Winter OTTAWA – The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and the National WeatherService (NWS) are promoting November as Winter Preparedness month in Illinois. Both agencies are hoping to help Illinois residents get prepared for extreme cold temperatures and the dangers they bring.

“It’s important to be prepared for driving,” LaSalle County Sheriff’s Lt. Rodney Damron said. “Check the weather before you drive. Take along a blanket, some

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“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.”

Another issue each

winter is the number of new and inexperienced drivers who have not had as much time to learn how to drive on ice crusted and frozen Illinois roads. Good winter driving habits are essential.

There are always unfortunate deaths related to extreme cold temperatures during each year. In 2012 nationwide there were eight deaths related to the cold weather, all occurring indoors including three in Illinois. This number is lower than the last

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10 years’ national average of 27 cold weather related deaths, according to IEMA.gov.

“There are several dangerous health conditions that can occur in winter weather,” Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck said.

“It’s important to watch for signs of being too cold or over-exertion.

Watch for signs of overexertion such as chest pain when shoveling snow. Know the warning signs of dangerous cold weather health con-

ditions in order to stay safe and healthy during the winter.”

Illinois residents can find updates and assistance in preparing for the upcoming winter weather from a winter preparedness guide put together by the American Red Cross, the NWS and the IEMA. The guide explains winter weather terminology as well as having updates for staying safe at home, in a car and at school. The guide can be found at the ReadyIllinois website at www.Ready.Illinois.gov.

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Obituary Shelby Jean Casey MARK — Shelby Jean Casey, 72, of Mark died at 6:35 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2013, at Manor Court Nursing Home in Peru.

Shelby Jean She was Casey born April 28, 1941, in Utica to Jim and Mildred (Hoppe) Schicke. She married Duane Casey May 15, 1972, in Peru.

She was a 1959 graduate of LaSalle-Peru Township High School.

She was an avid quilter, enjoyed overnight quilting retreats and was an avid sports fan.

She is survived by her husband, Duane of Mark, and one son, Jim Casey of Naperville.

She was preceded in death by one brother, Bill Schicke of Utica.

Cremation rites have been accorded. The Ptak Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Knost, Dr. Bailey, the staff at St. Margaret’s Hospital and the staff of Manor Court for their wonderful care and personal interaction.

Online condolences and remembrances may be shared at PtakFH. com.

Marriage From Page 1 “Here in LaSalle County, I knew that I would be facing the probability of having to replace the current program used to issue marriage licenses and civil unions because of its age.”

Carretto’s office issued 756 marriage licenses during 2011 and 774 during 2012.

The total for the year through Nov. 22 is 671.

The same-sex marriage bill was signed into law by Gov. Pat Quinn on Nov. 20 at the University of Illinois in Chicago. With its signing, Illinois became the 15th state to allow same-sex marriage.

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4 Biz Ag 4 • The Tonica News • Friday, November 29, 2013

Madigan warns of license scams CHICAGO — Attorney General Lisa Madigan advised Illinois residents to be on the lookout for scams related to the rollout of the Temporary Visitor’s Driver’s License (TVDL) program by the Illinois Secretary of State.

Non-U.S. citizens who are ineligible to obtain Social Security cards may apply for Illinois driver’s licenses under the new program.

Madigan indicated her office already had received reports of driving schools soliciting more than $1,000 from undocumented immigrants for so-called “universal licenses” that are supposedly recognized in most states. Madigan’s office also received report of a scam targeting Illinois residents for hundreds of dollars supposedly to expedite a TVDL application.

“The only legitimate place you can apply for a temporary driver’s license is with the Secretary of State’s office,” Madigan

said. “Other people who claim they can help get you a license or get it faster are only trying to scam you out of your money.”

“My office has spent the last 10 months meeting with immigrant advocacy organizations, legislators and interested citizens throughout the state to raise awareness on the procedures governing the application for and the issuance of TVDLs,” said Secretary of State Jesse White. “A primary component of our presentations has focused on alerting the immigrant community to be on the lookout for scam artists. I applaud Attorney General Madigan for joining me in this effort and for her vigilance in this matter.”

The Attorney General said TVDL applications can only be processed at designated Secretary of State facilities after making an appointment with the Secretary of State.

During the appointment, applicants will pay a $30 processing fee, complete

a Verification of Residency Form and have to pass a vision, written and road exam. The Secretary of State then will verify the information provided by the applicant, and if approved, the TVDL is mailed to the applicant’s home approximately 15-20 days after the appointment.

To avoid becoming the victim of a scam, Madigan offered the following tips to consumers: • Do not pay companies upfront fees to help you obtain a driver’s license.

The Secretary of State’s office is the only designated issuer of TVDLs. • Do not pay a fee to schedule an appointment with the Secretary of State. A fee is not required to make an appointment. Also, there is no way to expedite the appointment or the application process.

• Avoid offers for a “universal license” that is valid for driving in other states – there is no such thing.

• Beware of anyone promising to “clear your record” and obtain a TVDL for you immediately. If you have previously had a driver’s license under a false Social Security number or had a DUI conviction in the past, you may still be eligible for a TVDL. However, you may need to comply with additional requirements before applying. Please visit www.cyberdriveillinois.com for more information.

• Do not go to a notario or notary public to obtain a driver’s license. Only the Secretary of State’s office can provide you with a valid license in Illinois.

Madigan encouraged Illinois residents to contact her office’s Consumer Fraud Hotline with questions or to report potential scams: Those numbers are 800-3865438 (Chicago), 800-2430618 (Springfield), 800243-0607 (Carbondale) and 866-310-8398 (en Espanol).

Private pesticide applicator training and testing schedule University of Illinois Extension – Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, Putnam Unit is offering the following training and certification programs for private pesticide applicators.

Pre-registration is required for both training and testing-only sessions.

Training and testing on Dec. 3 (check-in will begin at 7:30 a.m.) will be held at Celebrations 150 Ltd., 740 E. U.S. Highway 6 (Route 6 east of Interstate 39) in Utica. Training will be conducted from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Preregistration is required for all training and testing clinics. Cost is $30 for the training. (This does not include the IDOA license fee.) Testing will begin immediately following training at 11:45 a.m. and will end at 2 p.m. Participants may bring a lunch.

No lunch will be provided at the site.

The four ways to register are online at www.pesticidesafety.illinois.edu; by calling 877-626-1650 (toll free); by mail by com-

pleting a registration form and mailing to University of Illinois – PSEP, 1201 S. Dorner Drive, Urbana, IL 61801 or by fax by completing a registration form and faxing it to 217244-3469 Testing only will be held on Dec. 9 from 1 to 3 p.m. to be held at the University of Illinois Extension – Bureau County Office, 850 Thompson St., Princeton. To register, call the University of Illinois Extension-Bureau County Office at 815-875-2878.

There is no charge.

Testing only will be on Jan. 14, 2014, from 10 a.m. to noon at the University of Illinois Extension – LaSalle County Office, 1689 N. 31st Road, Suite 2, Ottawa. To register, call the University of Illinois Extension-LaSalle County Office at 815-4330707. No charge.

Testing only will be on Jan. 24, 2014, from noon to 3 p.m. to be held at the University of Illinois Extension - Marshall/Putnam Office, 509 Front

Thank You

I have been truly blessed with a wonderful loving family, dear friends and great neighbors and to all of you a big heartfelt “Thanks” for the cards, phone calls, food and visits in the hospital and at home following my heart surgery at St. Francis in Peoria, IL. Recovery is going well and I want you to know that all your thoughts, prayers love and support have been deeply appreciated, not only by me, but also by the entire Carr family.

Thank you so very much.

Gail Carr

St., Henry. To register, call the University of Illinois Extension-Marshall/ Putnam County Office at 309-364-2356. No charge.

Testing only will be on Feb. 13, 2014, from 10 a.m. to noon at the University of Illinois Extension – LaSalle County Office, 1689 N. 31st Road, Suite 2, Ottawa. To register, call the University of Illinois Extension-LaSalle County Office at 815-4330707. No charge.

Testing only will be on March 11, 2014, from 10 a.m. to noon at the University of Illinois Extension – Bureau County Office, 850 Thompson St., Princeton. To register, call the University of Illinois Extension-Bureau County Office at 815-875-2878.

No charge.

Self-study training via the Internet training is another option. The online training program for private pesticide applicators includes eight modules to be completed at your convenience, and provides a training alter-

native for those unable to attend a training and testing clinic. The training modules available through this program include: 1. Understanding pesticides; 2. Pesticides and the environment; 3.

Integrated pest management; 4. Human pesticide protection; 5. Labels and labeling; 6. Equipment and calibration Part I; 7.

Equipment and calibration Part II; and 8. Pesticide laws and regulations.

There is a $15 fee to register and take the online course, and users will have access to the training material for one year from the date of purchase. This is for online training only. The license examination is not offered via the Internet and must be taken elsewhere. The online training link is www.pesticidesafety.illinois.edu New private applicator manuals were printed in 2011-12. The manual and workbook can be purchased online or at local Extension offices.

Dollars and Sense Social Security in 2014: Next year’s small COLA isn’t the only adjustment related to the program Here are five things you need to know about Social Security for 2014. For clarity’s sake, here is a rundown of COMMENTARY what is changing next year, and what isn’t.

1. Social Security recipients are getting a raise — but not much of one. Next year, the average monthly Social Security payment will increase by $19 due to a 1.5 percent cost-of-living adjustment, one of the smallest annual COLAs in the program’s history. Since 1975, only seven COLAs have been less than 2 percent. Four of these seven COLAs have occurred in the past five years, however. The 2013 COLA was 1.7 percent.

How does Social Security measure COLAs? It refers to the federal government’s Consumer Price Index, specifically the CPI-W, which tracks how inflation affects urban wage earners and clerical workers. Social Security looks at the CPI-W from July to September of the present year to figure the Social Security COLA for next year, so the 2014 COLA reflects the very tame inflation measured in summer 2013.

Does the CPI-W accurately measure the inflation pressures that seniors face? Some senior advocacy groups say it doesn’t. The Senior Citizens League, a non-profit that lobbies for elders and retired veterans, contends that Social Security recipients have lost 34 percent of their purchasing power since 2000 because the CPI-W doesn’t track rising health care expenses correctly.

2. Chained CPI is not yet being used to determine COLAs. Some analysts and legislators would like Social Security COLAs to be based on chained CPl, a formula which assumes some consumers are buying cheaper/ alternative products and services as prices rise. Supporters think pegging Social Security COLAs to chained CPI could reduce the program’s daunting shortfall by as much as 20 percent in the long term.

The CPI-W is still the CPI of record, so to speak. That’s good for retirees, as the Congressional Budget Office says COLAs would be about 0.3 percent smaller if they were based on chained CPI. Perhaps this sounds bearable for one year, but according to AARP, a 62-year-old who retired and claimed Social Security in 2013 would be losing the equivalent of an entire month of income per year by age 92 if chained CPI were used to figure benefit increases.

3. Social Security’s maximum monthly benefit is increasing. In 2013, a Social Security recipient who had reached full retirement age could claim a maximum monthly benefit of $2,533. Next year, the limit will be $2,642.

4. Social Security’s annual earnings limit is also increasing. This limit is only faced by Social Security recipients who have yet to reach the month in which they turn 66.

In 2013, retirees younger than 66 were able to earn up to $15,120 before having $1 in retirement benefits temporarily withheld for every $2 above that level. In 2014, the annual earnings limit rises to $15,480. Social Security recipients who will turn 66 next year can earn up to $41,400 in 2014; if their earnings break through that ceiling, they will have $1 of their benefits temporarily withheld for every $3 above that level. Once you get to the month in which you celebrate your 66th birthday, you can earn any amount of income thereafter without a withholding penalty.

5. On the job, the wage base for Social Security taxes is rising. American workers will pay a 6.2 percent payroll tax on the initial $114,000 of their incomes in 2014. The 2013 payroll tax cap was set at $113,700. About 6 percent of working Americans will pay more in Social Security tax next year as a consequence of this seemingly insignificant adjustment.

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A Thank You A

The Freeman/Jacobson family wishes to say thank you to all of you that made our difficult time of Roger Freeman’s passing easier. A special thanks to Mueller Funeral Home for your care and compassion. Thanks to DeVine Floral, the flowers were beautiful. Thank you to the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church family, Smitty’s Catering, Rev. Roger Helgren and Rev. Robert Spillman for putting on the luncheon, wonderful service and all your prayers and thoughts! Thank you to Paula Atkinson for the wonderful music. Our appreciation goes out to the Pallbearers and the LaSalle-Oglesby Veteran’s Memorial Group for the military rites conducted at the grave site. Thank you, especially, to the great neighbors, friends and family for being there and helping where ever you could with meals, flowers, thoughts and prayers or just calls. It’s been a tough time, but with all of your help and continuous friendship, support and God’s care, we will make it.

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5 Perspective Friday, November 29, 2013 • The Tonica News • 5

The Editorial Page The Tonica News Sam R Fisher

Terri Simon

Publisher

Editor

Refresher course One part of my job which I truly enjoy are the opportunities I have to visit area schools. Sometimes I’m there to do an interview or take a photo, while other occasions find me in the halls of education to speak to a class about the newspaper business.

Either way, I most always leave each school with a feeling of appreciation for the teachers who lead their students through the educational — and often the life skills — process.

When I was a child, I always thought I wanted to be a teacher. As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to realize some things just aren’t meant to be, and that’s for good reason. For me, teaching would be fun for about a week. After that, I’d be on my last nerve ... which explains why I have such an appreciation for teachers.

But back to my story ...

So I found myself headed into a school the other day, when I saw one of my Terri favorite Bureau County teachers on the Simon playground. I was a bit early, so I thought I would go over and say hi to this teacher, who was obviously on playground duty. We chatted for a while as she kept a close eye on her young charges. The kids were crazy wild, and even though we chatted casually, this teacher didn’t miss a beat when it came to keeping an eye on the kids and reprimanding them when needed.

Just as I was about to head into the school, I watched as a young boy came toward us. He had a distressed look on his face as he approached us.

There were no tears, but I thought there might be soon. Without hesitation, he spoke to my teacher friend ... “(Classmate’s name) is throwing grass at me,” the little boy told the teacher. “He’s throwing a lot of it at me, and it’s getting in my mouth,” he continued.

From the size of the child, I assumed he was a firstor second-grader.

And then with all the wisdom teachers are known to have, my teacher friend delivered the following: “Well, keep your mouth closed and go play somewhere else,” she said quickly.

The little boy appeared to be studying his teacher’s words for a minute, and then he was off, doing as he was told and heading to the opposite side of the playground.

“Well, that was easy,” I said to the teacher.

“No,” she said just as quickly. “That was common sense.”

I chuckled out loud and headed off into the school, but I don’t mind telling you the teacher’s words stayed with me all day long ... “Keep your mouth closed and go play somewhere else.”

As I think back, I have to tell you I believe those words of wisdom are great advice — not just for a little kid on the playground, but for all of us ... “Keep your mouth closed and go play somewhere else.” In fact, they might just be some of the most brilliant words I’ve heard in a long time.

Like the little kid who was throwing grass on the playground, we all — at one time or another — have that person or persons, who tend to throw a lot our way. While it probably isn’t something so simple as a handful of grass, they tend to throw their words, their actions, their demeanor, their attitudes, etc., at us. And of course, I think our first inclination in dealing with these types of people is to lash back and throw some words, actions or attitudes back at them. At the very least — like the little kid complaining to his teacher on the playground, we want someone to acknowledge our misery, and we spread the other person’s wrongdoing like it’s gospel to anyone who will listen.

But what if we adopted the teacher’s advice — “Keep your mouth closed and go play somewhere else?” In essence ... ignore the problem. Don’t let your own mouth perpetuate the issue. And then walk away and move on to something else.

A life lesson I should practice more often ... Problem solved, and I keep my own dignity intact in the process. Thanks, my teacher friend. Sometimes an adult needs a common sense lesson too.

Tonica News Editor Terri Simon can be reached at tsimon@tonicanews.com.

On the street

Do you shop on Black Friday?

If so where? If not, why not?

“I do not Black Friday shop. I do not like the crowds, and I can always find the items online. I can find the items just as cheap online as I could in the stores.”

Jill Newbold, Streator

“I have done it in the past, I don’t do it any longer. It’s just too crazy.

Its too ridiculous. I stay home.”

Debra Wiesbrock, Tonica

“We go and do the local places like Walmart and the Peru Mall. But yes, we are usually out at 4 a.m.”

Nicole Larsen, Lostant

“Well no, I do not Black Friday shop. I don’t have the time, and I don’t want to fight the crowds.”

Cindy Boldt, Grand Ridge

“I do not shop actually. My mom has always tried to get me to go with my sisters, and I just think it’s too many people. Too many people and I always felt bad for the people who were working. I mean like they have to wake up like at 4 a.m. in the morning to go and stand at work.

I wouldn’t do it. So I don’t go shopping on Black Friday.”

Stephanie Ziel, Ottawa

Home is where my heart is “So where are you headed off to college at?” The graduation invitation salesman asked each of my fellow class officers in the last months of my senior year.

We were all very conditioned to this type of question by then, and the other four officers’ schools rang in my ears as if they were gleaming palaces only for the best: Platteville, Iowa State, Aurora, and another Iowa State. Ah, the luxury of a four year college … I mused as I meekly replied, “Oh, I’m just going to IVCC.” “Just IVCC? Why, no need to be ashamed. I’d say you’re the smartest one of the bunch. Just think of the money you’ll be saving, and IVCC is really a very nice school.”

I remember a blush coming on and smiling from ear to ear, feeling pretty good about my decision to attend a junior college, but I was still feeling a little gypped about missing out on the whole college experience. All my friends would start to get the freedom and independence I so longed for, as well as getting to live with and meet all kinds of new people. I couldn’t help but be just the weeist bit jealous.

My feelings on the issue didn’t take too long to change, though. For one, I didn’t have to move out all of my belongings into a possibly tiny, uncomfortable room with other people I didn’t know. Also, I didn’t have to take out a loan for my upwards to $30,000 or $40,000 tuition cost, and I wouldn’t be unluckily paired with a rude, messy or crazy roommate. The list could go on and on.

Yes, I do have to drive 40 minutes every day to get to school, and I do have to deal with my family every night (don’t worry, just kidding!), but after talking to one of my friends who lives away at college in a dorm, I realize that I have it pretty good.

I get to come home to my com-

Danae Ross COMMENTARY fortable, roomy house every night with home-cooked meals and the freedom to drive or go wherever I want. I get my own shower and double-sized bed with all of my belongings at fingertip access. And perhaps best of all I get to keep the relationships with my family that so many college students lack.

Since losing the constant attention from a relationship and also losing some of my closer friends to college both about the same time a few months back, I’ve learned the importance of needing to nurture my relationships more. The people that you love and that love you aren’t necessarily there for life, and if you are not careful, they could up and leave in the blink of an eye.

I am not a very outgoing person, an introvert by nature, so making lots of new friends and being the life of the party is definitely not my strong suit. Through realizing this about myself, I also figured out that while meeting new people is fantastic, often maintaining long-time friends and family is the most important because we will always be closest to them.

Reflecting on this idea, one of the highlights of my days has been the almost nightly walks with my mom. We love to take quick half hour strolls through the scenic areas of Princeton or on country roads by our house while discussing our days and just being there for each other. Due to these quick catch-up sessions, my mom has become one of my best friends; always there to listen, rejoice, mourn, advise or whatever I need each day while I try

to give the same in return.

It isn’t always perfect, and we have our share of disagreements, but I am so thankful for this growth in our relationship because I know that my mom will always be there whether I like it or not, and I love that we get along so well and have learned to understand and be patient with one another.

Another time I cherish is the occasional homework sessions I share with my brother. Mind you, we don’t always get a lot of homework accomplished with all of the distractions, but I love being able to catch up and enjoy a few laughs together amongst our very different schedules.

We can do this because we both drive to our colleges, so I am thankful for campuses within driving distance. Without them my brother would not have lived at home for the past four years, and this year I would also not be home, guaranteeing no brother-sister time on a regular basis.

IVCC has really been a blessing for me in so many ways. I know that junior colleges aren’t for everyone, but I encourage all students to give them a chance because they are the perfect transition from high school to universities and the “real world” (and I absolutely love my professors!).

But more importantly, IVCC has allowed me to maintain and strengthen many of the relationships that are the most essential to me, which is much harder for those who are away at school. I will eventually move away to a campus and experience the other parts of college, but for now I am very thankful to be living at home and being with the people that care about me most.

Danae Ross is a freshman at Illinois Valley Community College.

She can be reached at diamondspride30@yahoo.com.

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

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

6 Life 6 • The Tonica News • Friday, November 29, 2013

Community Streator Elks will hold clinic on Dec. 9 STREATOR — The Streator Elks 591 Lodge, in cooperation with the Illinois Elks Children’s Care Corporation, will sponsor a free children’s orthopedic assessment clinic on Dec. 9. The clinic is from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and is by appointment only. To make an appointment, call the Illinois Elks Children’s Care office at 1-800-272-0074 between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. There are no charges for any services at this clinic.

The Elks will hold the clinic at the Orthopedic Associates of Streator at the office of Dr. A. Roy. The office is located at 205 S. Park St., Streator.

The hours for the clinic are 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

No medical referral is necessary for the clinic but physicians are welcome to refer patients to the clinic for a specific reason or second opinion. School nurses are welcome to refer chil-

dren and families to the clinic.

The Elks Organization has been working with physically challenged children since 1928 and this is one of the 17 clinic locations throughout Illinois. The clinic is an ideal time to have a child reviewed for bone and joint development. If your child has feet pointing out or in who complains of back, knee, leg or ankle pain or has a back curvature can be seen at this clinic. There is no charge for any diagnostic services at this clinic. The Elks will provide financial assistance to their best of their ability for children needing further treatment or specialty equipment when the family lacks sufficient resources to do so. In the past, the Elks have purchased therapy services, corrective shoes, braces, wheelchairs and augmentative communication devices to help children overcome a variety of physical challenges.

IVSO to present ‘The Nutcracker’ Ballet LASALLE — The Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra will present “The Nutcracker” Ballet at 4 p.m. Dec. 14 and 3 p.m. Dec. 15 at LaSallePeru High School Auditorium with the Dance Center, LaSalle, Ottawa Dance Academy, Gray’s School of Dance, Ottawa, and the Parkside School Concert Choir.

The concert is sponsored by the Spring Valley City Bank, Eureka Savings Bank, HR Imaging Partners Inc., and season sponsor, Central Radio Group.

The LaSalle-Peru High

LASALLE — All local high school juniors are invited to register for the ACT prep class at LaSalle-Peru Township High School.

The classes are from 6 to 9 p.m. on Mondays: Jan. 6, 13, 27; Feb. 3, 10, 24; and March 10, 17

and 24.

To reserve a spot in the class, bring a check for $120 made payable to the LaSalle County Regional Office of Education to the LP Counseling Office by Dec. 13. For more information, call 815-2231721, ext 751.

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OGLESBY — Two Illinois Valley Community College projects have been nominated for prestigious national awards.

Making Industry Meaningful In College (MIMIC), one of 10 Bellwether finalists in 2012, is being considered for a Bellwether Legacy Award recognizing previous winners offered for five or more years and have been replicated elsewhere.

IVCC’s edible car contests have received a third Bellwether nomination recognizing outstanding and innovative projects leading community colleges into the future.

Bellwether and Legacy Award finalists will be announced in December and honored Jan. 25-28 at the Community College Futures Assembly at the University of Florida in Orlando.

Developed by Dorene Perez, computer-aided design/computer-aided engineering instructor and Alice Steljes, a now-retired accounting instructor, MIMIC was first offered in 1995.

“Our students needed workplace skills like teamwork, communication and problem solving,”

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Perez said. “We began having our students work together as they would in a business or industry, and we provided training for the skills they needed.”

Today, each MIMIC team, or company, includes students in engineering design, electronics and a variety of business fields such as marketing, accounting and information systems. Manufacturing students serve as consultants, and students in other fields, such as graphic design and technical writing, assist.

MIMIC instructors are Jim Gibson, electronics, Rick Serafini, accounting, and Perez.

Since its inception, MIMIC has been recognized for innovation.

Perez said it appears to be the first community college project to place technical and business students into teams to design, manufacture and sell products.

IVCC began offering edible car contests in 2006 as a celebration of Engineering Week.

“We knew designing vehicles from food would challenge students to solve problems and be creative, skills that are critical in engineering,” said Perez. “We saw

PRINCETON — The First United Methodist Church of Princeton is accepting donations of new and gently used prom, pageant, bridesmaid and evening dresses, as well as accessories including jewelry, purses and shoes, for the second

annual PROMise sale on March 1, 2014.

The purpose of is event is to provide an opportunity for girls to find the prom dress of their dreams at a very affordable price. Proceeds from this charitable event will be given

to Living Works Suicide Prevention Walk and FUMC youth programs.

Dress donations can be dropped off at the First United Methodist Church in Princeton located at 316 S. Church St. For more information, call 815-872-2821.

Local Menards stores are getting in the Christmas spirit PERU — In the spirit of Christmas, local Menards home improvement stores are serving as a toy drive drop site. Drop boxes are located near the exit door to collect new and unwrapped presents from now through mid-December.

••• Visit us online at www.tonicanews.com.

Are You reAdY For Winter?

Photo contributed

Running 26.2 miles Brad Baer of Philadelphia, Pa., completed the Philadelphia Marathon in 4 hours, 11 minutes. He is the son of Mark and Laura Baer of Morton, and the grandson of Robert and Nancy Baer of Tonica, and Ken and Eleanor Busch of Tonica.

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its potential to excite students about an unlimited number of subjects.”

Perez and a team consisting of Gibson, retired communications instructor Rose Marie Lynch and biology instructor Sue Caley Opsal have offered the contests to second-graders through college-age students.

Contests are especially suited for creating interest in and providing hands-on applications for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). While the vehicles created from food are low tech, the program showcases high tech equipment in the speed competition. A programmable logic controller is connected to a human machine interface with reflective photo eyes on the track’s start and finish.

While the organizers did not originate the contest, they have capitalized on its potential for engaging people of all ages in an unlimited number of theoretical concepts.

“People of all ages like playing with food,” Perez said. “We encourage others to capitalize on that interest.”

Donations being accepted for PROMise sale

School Auditorium is handicapped accessible. Tickets are $12 for adults, $5 for ages 12 and under. This is reserved seats only. Tickets are available online at ivso. org or send a check payable to IVSO and a selfaddressed, stamped envelope to: IVSO Nutcracker, c/o Larry Ault, 1300 Briarcrest Drive, Ottawa, IL 61350. Specify date, main floor or balcony, and how many adult or child tickets. All sales are final and there will be no refunds or exchanges. Orders received after Dec. 6 will be held at the door.

ACT prep class

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IVCC receives Bellwether Award nominations

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7 Life Friday, November 29, 2013 • The Tonica News • 7

Bailey Creek Kids 4-H’ers serve farmers

donated all proceeds from the day to the club.

There were 16 Bailey Creek Kids 4-H members

and Cloverbuds present.

Thank you to Cory and the local farmers who made the day a success.

Without the support of the community, the 4-H program would not be possible.

PAC will present fourth annual mini-Christmas Tree Festival PRINCETON — The Prairie Arts Council will present its fourth annual mini-Christmas Tree through Dec. 8 at the Prairie Arts Center, 24 Park Ave. East in Princeton.

The two-week long event will include a day of children’s Christmas crafts, a Christmas concert presented by the Illinois Valley Flute Ensemble and PAC’s firstever collectible hand-painted

Christmas ornament.

The public is invited to view the display of mini-Christmas trees and wreaths in the gallery of the Prairie Arts Center. Each design is uniquely themed and decorated by local artisans and generously donated to help raise funds in support of community arts programming offered by the Prairie Arts Council.

Raffle tickets for the trees and

Mr. and Mrs. Bernardo (Jaclyn) Wilson

wreaths will be sold for $2 each or three for $5.

Gallery hours for viewing the trees and wreaths are Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. until noon.

For more details about the mini-Christmas Tree Festival and other programs offered at the Prairie Arts Center, go to www. theprairieartscouncil.org.

Festival 56 opens with White Christmas play PRINCETON — Festival 56 will kick off the holiday season at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6 with the first performance of “Still Dreaming of a White Christmas.” It runs through Dec. 21. All shows are at the Grace Performing Arts, 316 S. Main St., Princeton. Tickets are $26, $24 (seniors) and $13 (students under 18).

The play, written by Laura Brigham, takes all into the imagined next chapter of this beloved holiday classic. The music-filled show features many Christmas and Golden Era tunes, such as “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.”

From Dec. 17-22, Festival 56 will also present “The Naughty List,” a holiday play designed

especially for children ages 3-10. When one of Santa’s elves finds himself on the “naughty list,” he realizes that he has lost the meaning of Christmas and goes off in search of it. Thinking about a play that would be fun for her own small children, Laura Brigham was inspired to write “The Naughty List.”

General admission tickets are $13 (The Naughty List is a special event not included in Festival 56 subscription packages.)

Learning Stage, the education committee of the Princeton Theatre Group, has devised a kids’ contest for the “Naughty List” production. The contest is co-sponsored

by Heartland Bank and the Princeton Chamber of Commerce. Contest booklets are available at

the bank’s main office in Princeton (606 S. Main St.), at the Grace Performing Arts Center and online at www.festival56.com. Entries must be returned to the Grace by 5 p.m. Dec. 10. Semifinalists will receive two tickets to the play. The grand prize will be a $50 savings account at Heartland Bank.

For tickets to “Still Dreaming of a White

Christmas” or “The Naughty List,” visit www.festival56.com or call the Festival 56 Box Office at 815-879-5656, ext. 11. The box office is open noon to 5 p.m.

Tuesday through Saturday, and an hour before each performance.

The Grace Performing Arts Center is completely accessible and ample nearby parking is available.

Immel-Wilson Jaclyn Marie Immel and Bernardo Lukato Wilson were united in marriage Oct. 5 at Plum Hollow Country Club in Southfield, Mich.

The bride is the daughter of John and Lora Immel of Lostant. Her grandparents are the late Harry and Elizabeth Immel of Granville and the late Lawrence and Marian Dart of Tonica.

The groom is the son of L.V. and Jennie Wilson of Detroit, Mich.

Attendants were Jonathan and Erika Immel, Elgin Cooper and Melinda Nett, Justin and Healy Immel, Eric and Crystal Hackney, Zog Vulaj and Tanya Mehl, Jayme Resler and Annie Tabereaux, and Sydnee Wilson.

The couple will honeymoon in Mexico and are residing in Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

The bride graduated from Putnam County High School and Illinois Valley Community College, and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from West Virginia University Institute of Technology. She is an automotive account executive for Comcast Spotlight in Bingham Farms, Mich.

The groom is a graduate of Detroit Public Schools and received his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. He has a master’s degree in elementary education and in counseling from Wayne State University and a master’s degree from the University of Phoenix in curriculum and instruction.

He is employed by the Detroit Public Schools as an educator.

287280

TONICA — The Bailey Creek Kids would like to thank Northern Partners and Cory Davidson for providing the club with a fundraising opportunity.

On Oct. 26, the club gathered at Northern Partners to sell lunch to farmers who were bringing in their crops.

Lunch consisted of hot dogs, chips, cookies and drinks. The club members had a great time serving lunch and learning about the inside operations of the elevator.

Northern Partners

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Christmas Open House Friday, December 6th • 8 a.m. to close

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Please stop by any of our three locations and enjoy refreshments and holiday cheer, and sign up for door prizes!

• On Dec. 24th, all locations will close at noon and will re-open on Dec. 26th during regular hours • On Dec. 31st, all facilities will be open until noon and will re-open on Jan. 2nd during regular hours.

8 History 8 • The Tonica News • Friday, November 29, 2013

Illinois Valley YMCA Dolphins swim in wtwo meets Team beats Dixon on Nov. 23 and takes second at Brett Stone Invite

By Dixie Schroeder news@tonicanews.com

The Illinois Valley YMCA Dolphin swim team participated in two meets over the weekend. The Dolphins competed in the Brett Stone Invitational on Nov. 24 in Streator. On Nov. 23, the team traveled to Dixon to participate in a dual meet against the Dixon Family YMCA Dolphins.

At the Stone Invite, the Dolphins came in second with an overall score of 696.50.

The Lady Dolphins took second with 288.50 points while the Dolphin boys took second place out of nine teams with 318 points.

Lostant’s Keira Kiersnowski swam the second leg of the girls 8 and under 100-

yard medley which had a time of 1:44.65. Kiersnowski also swam the first leg of the girls 8 and under 100-yard freestyle which had a time of 1:27.33.

Wenona’s Americus Berg swam the third leg of the girls 10 and under 200-yard freestyle event with an overall time of 2:55.46.

Cody Smith of Wenona swam in two relays on Nov. 24. He first swam the leadoff leg of the boys 12 and under 200-yard medley which timed in at 2:27.29. His second relay earned a time of 2:06.97 in the boys 12 and under 200yard freestyle relay where he again swam the leadoff leg of the race.

In their individual events, Keira Kiersnowski, 7, swam in three events and Sadie Kiersnowski, 6, swam in two. Keira took second in the girls 8 and under 50-yard freestyle race at a time of 46.00. She also pulled down a fourth-place finish with a time of 27.97 in

the girls 8 and under 25-yard butterfly stroke event. Keira also swam in the girls 8 and under 100-yard Individual Relay. Sadie earned a seventh place finish with a time of 43.19 in the girls 6 and under 25-yard backstroke and scored eighth in the girls 6 and under 25-yard freestyle event at a time of 52.66.

Americus Berg competed in three individual events for the Dolphins as well: the girls 10 and under 50-yard freestyle, the girls 10 and under 50-yard backstroke and the girls 10 and under 50-yard backstroke.

Xavier Berg swam in two events for the Dolphins, the boys 8 and under 25-yard freestyle and the boys 8 and under 25-yard backstroke.

Smith also swam three individual events taking a third in the boys 12 and under 50-yard butterfly stroke with a time of 35.89. He also earned two fourth-place finishes in the boys 12 and under 50-yard

freestyle at 29.51 and the boys 12 and under 100-yard freestyle with a time of 1:05.26.

On Nov. 23, the IV Lady Dolphins won first place over Dixon by a point score of 311 to 66. The IV Dolphin boys team took first place as well over Dixon with a final score of 295 to 98. The IV Dolphins won the meet with a final score of 606-164.

Lostant’s potent sister duo of Keira and Sadie Kiersnowski swam a total of five events.

Keira swam in the girls 8 and under 100-yard individual medley finishing second and earning her team three points with a time of 2:04.44. Keira also took two first places for five points each in the girls 8 and under 25-yard butterfly stroke at 26.49 and the girls 8 and under 25-yard backstroke at a time of 24.29. She also participated in the girls 8 and under 100-yard medley, swimming the third leg for her team.

Sadie swam in the girls 6 and under 25-yard freestyle and placed fourth with a time of 40.73 as well as in the girls 6 and under 25-yard backstroke with a time of 37.55. She also swam in the girls 8 and under 100-yard freestyle swimming in the third leg for her team.

Smith swam in three events last Saturday. He took second in the boys 12 and under 50-yard butterfly stroke event with a time of 37.04. Smith also took first place in the boys 12 and under 50-yard backstroke with a time of 35.43 and the boys 12 and under 50-yard breaststroke with a time of 45.36. Overall, Smith bagged 13 points in these three events for his team. He also swam in the boys 12 and under 200yard freestyle event swimming the anchor leg.

The Dolphins are off Thanksgiving weekend and host their next meet at home on Dec. 7 at the Illinois Valley YMCA in Peru.

History ... according to The Tonica News 135 years ago About 10:15 p.m. last Saturday evening, an alarm of fire was raised and the village thrown into commotion on short notice. Many had already retired for the night, when they were thus suddenly called from the repose of the downy couch to the excitement of a threatening conflagration. Hurrying footsteps were heard on every street as the agitated people flocked to the scene of what came very near proving a serious calamity to the village. The flames were already ascending in roaring volumes, lighting up the church spires and house tops with a lurid glare that startled the remotest dweller in the suburbs.

On reaching the scene of the fiery terror, we found Horrom’s Hall enveloped in flames, and a large crowd of busy workers carrying pails of water and making the utmost exertions to save the hotel on the north and Bordon’s blacksmith shop south. Among the most energetic workers were John King, Mont Perry, Dr. Gray, H. E. Robbins, W. A. Flint, Will Brokaw, Myron Burgess, Peter Vandyck and W. Barker, besides others, who hazarded their lives in their determined efforts to arrest the spread of the fire.

Thanks to all parties, they were successful.

As it seemed for sometime almost a hopeless task to save the blacksmith shop and adjoining paint shop, all the tools and implements were removed to a place of safety and happily, upon returning them after the danger had passed, not a single article of value was found greatly injured.

The hotel also was equally threatened with destruction, and the furniture was hastily taken out by the active hands that were ready for the emergency. Of course many articles were damaged, though Mr. Phelps, the proprietor, estimates his loss at less than $50.

To save the building required the utmost exertions. It was

hot work, but the boys stuck to it as bravely as regular firemen accustomed to fight the devouring element.

Horrom’s Hall was only a onestory frame building, formerly the old school house standing in the eastern part of the village. It belonged to the Horrom estate, and was rented with the hotel premises. The loss can hardly be considered more than $200. The hall had long been used for dances and other public entertainments.

It was fortunate that the hotel was saved, otherwise the whole row of buildings to the northward would undoubtedly have been destroyed. Our citizens deserve great credit for their coolness and daring energy in the perilous work of arresting the progress of the fire and thus saving much valuable property.

John L. Ong has improved his place, corner of Oneco and Hiawatha streets, by putting a new fence around it.

A. L. Hillman has had his house on the corner of Oneco and Wauponsis streets painted a French gray color. John Harkins & Son did the job.

An exciting foot race took place Tuesday morning in which “Spider” showed himself a rapid runner.

Mrs. S. W. Allen and daughter Flora turned in the fore part of the week from a short visit to friends at Minonk.

The Streator authorities have caused their lamp posts to be re-painted and the name of the streets to be painted on the glass.

Elder Russell preached on the resurrection last Sunday morning, as a subject appropriate to Easter. His spiritualistic view of the resurrection excited some comment, particularly from those who hold to a more literal interpretation of certain texts of Scripture.

That rain was a little too much for even the cold water army, and so the temperance meeting on Tuesday evening was a failure in point of numbers, although the essay of Geo. Hinman was full of interest.

Indeed it was so good that the writer will repeat it again, by request, at the meeting next Tuesday evening, when it is hoped the weather will permit a large attendance.

Mr. A. E. Greenfield at Mt. Palatine had a swarm of bees come off on the 22nd. He hived the early honey makers, and reports that they are doing well.

There were no indications of any disturbing cause aside from the forwardness of the season to lead to such an early swarming. It is truly remarkable — another freak of this wonderful year of our Lord 1878.

Clark Hutchinson is the boss fisherman. He caught a catfish last Saturday which weighed 15 pounds — the largest prize of the kind taken here in many a day. On bringing it to town he sold it for 65 cents.

We are informed that the hailstorm last Sunday afternoon was very destructive in the vicinity of Lowell. Hailstones were picked up as large as hen’s eggs. Dr. Frank Bullock, very Vermillionvile, had 130 lights broken in his house. Nearly all the exposed windows had the glass broken in.

Died — Saturday morning last, at Magnolia, Henry, son of David and Mary Parkin, age 15 months.

E. S. Foster is erecting a fine barn on his place about 2 1/2 miles south of Tonica. It is 37-by-48-feet in size, built of heavy timber, and to be finished in elegant style. A cupola on top, surmounted by a gilt ball set on a flag staff, will serve to attract the eye of the distant observer.

Prof. R. C. Bibbins, band teacher, arrived Monday night.

He is putting in his time day and evening giving instruction to the members as each may find leisure from his business.

He is engaged to remain here two weeks, and may stay longer.

Tonica escaped the damage done by the storm last Sunday for the most part. Hailstones fell as large as walnuts for a few seconds, but there was no wind

to drive them through the windows. Nor was the fruit trees injured to any extent worth mentioning.

Streator parties propose to deliver ice in Wenona during the summer at $1 per 100 pounds. How much in Tonica?

The law has a penalty for killing birds of any kind after May 1. Boys, look out.

Those Minonk boys who came up to Bailey’s falls last week are reported to have taken home 200 pounds of nice fish.

Miss Mina Vandervort is visiting friends in Bureau County.

Miss Anna Hannen from Pennsylvania and Alpheus Vandervort from Onarga, Ill., are visiting at Dr. Vandervort’s.

The Baptist church in Tonica has got a new organ. It is said to be a splendid instrument.

The band stand is now completed and furnished with a fine illuminator placed in the center. Now let the boys toot away.

The down passenger train was considerably late yesterday and the day before. As the Doctor explains it, the hot weather caused it — expanding the rails and making the track longer.

Clear, isn’t it!

Wm. Bittle has mown the grass in the school house lot, doing the work for the hay. It is suggested that he might be willing to clear the cemetery on the same terms. It certainly needs a little cropping.

A load of Tonicans go to the river for a swim nearly every afternoon.

The Rev. Henry Fisher spent a few days with his sister, Mrs. Henry Gunn, this week.

Moody Little says if this hot weather continues he is going to find a cool nook if he has to go to the north pole.

The band boys went out to Mr. O. Bullock’s last Thursday evening to enliven “the old folks at home” with some of their excellent music. They report a good time — plenty of refreshments and a pleasant ride.

The merchants are talking of putting up hitching posts along the park fence.

Bridges Senior Center OTTAWA — The Bridges Senior Center is located at 221 W. Etna Road, Ottawa.

All events are held at the center unless noted otherwise. Questions may be directed to 815-431-8034.

Dec. 2 — 9 a.m., Tai Chi at Eastside Park; 11 a.m., sewing circle; 12:45 p.m., bingo; 1:30 p.m., cards (blitz, euchre, pinochle).

Dec. 3 — 9 a.m., Forever Fit; noon, Blankets of Hope.

Dec. 4 — 9 a.m., Forever Fit. Dec. 5 — 9 a.m., Tai Chi at Eastside Park; 12:45 p.m., bingo; 1:30 p.m., cards (blitz, euchre, pinochle).

Dec. 6 — 9 a.m., Forever Fit; 1 p.m., open Wii bowling.

The center is also a congregate meal site Monday through Friday. A 24-hour reservation is required.

PCCC Menus Dec. 1 – Meatloaf with ketchup, mashed potatoes, peas and mushrooms, diced pears, white bread.

Dec. 2 – Potato soup, salad, crackers, dessert.

Dec. 3 – Chicken rice casserole, broccoli florets, three bean salad, orange, wheat bread.

Dec. 4 — Roast pork, mashed potatoes and gravy, mixed vegetables, roll, dessert.

Dec. 5 – Baked chicken quarters, scalloped potatoes, green beans, fruit cocktail, wheat bread.

Putnam County Community Center serves lunch every day, Monday through Friday.

Reservations are required 24 hours in advance by calling 815-339-2711. The suggested donations for Monday, Wednesday and Friday is $3. The suggested donations for Tuesday and Thursday is $5.