Thursday Dec. 10, 2015 Vol. 3, No. 40
The Weekly Post
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State schools report card shows growth, challenges By BILL KNIGHT
Each of five area school districts evaluated in the state’s new school Report Card can legitimately find positives and negatives. On the positive side: Brimfield has a high graduation rate and low incidence of student mobility (transfers in and out of school) and efficient operational spending; Elmwood has the highest score for college readiness, and improved its math scores; Farmington improved in both reading and math and had the area’s lowest per-pupil instructional spending; Princeville improved its reading score by 10 percent; and Williamsfield has the smallest class size and spending that seems high but remains lower than the state averFor The Weekly Post
Tentative OK for new business
age. The school Report Card is an annual Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) instrument issued since 1986 that’s intended to offer a glimpse of Districts’ situations. “Illinois’ award-winning Report Card is a model for other states to provide in-depth, meaningful data about school learning environments in an easily accessible format,” said State Superintendent of Education Tony Smith, Ph.D. A school comparison doesn’t imply competition between Districts but an indication of different circumstances’ successes and challenges. After all, very few families opt to attend public schools outside their geographic districts. And learning is the
School report card a snapshot of School Districts’ situations School (Enrollment)
Class Size
FTE1 Teachers
Mobility2
Grad. Rate
College Ready3
Instruction4 Operation
Academic Growth5
Brimfield (714) Elmwood (693) Farmington (1,438) Princeville (772) Williamsfield (297) State of Illinois
21 18 18 17 12 -
46 48 93 55 25 -
6% 19% 13% 7% 10% 12%
97% 91% 92% 92% 74% 86%
62% 68% 43% 46% 23% 46%
$4,903 $6,297 $4,154 $5,721 $7,379 $7,419
101/110 102/108 101/98 100/114 97/97 99/103
1 4
Full Time Equivalent Teachers Average expense per pupil
2 5
3 Transfers in and out Those scoring at least 21 on the ACT exam Numbers are for Reading/Math, with 100 signifying no growth
most vital statistic. Of course, learning is difficult to gauge, as shown by the struggle to have a test that measures academic achievement. The new school Report Card doesn’t yet include results from the first PARCC (Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers) test, which replaced the Illinois Standards
Achievement test (ISAT). However, the Report Card notes “academic growth” in reading and math. There, Farmington improved from 2013 in both areas, and the other four had mixed results, although most showed “positive growth” and all seem better than the national benchmark as evaluated by the National Assessment of Educa-
CHRISTMAS IN PRINCEVILLE
Continued on Page 10
Ex-Billtown teacher Banks files lawsuit WILLIAMSFIELD – The Williamsfield teacher who quit in January after she said she was given a choice between resigning or being investigated for improprieties has filed suit against Williamsfield School District 210 and its Board of Education as well as a Middle School cheerleading coach. The lawsuit by Ann Banks, a former Billtown English teacher, alleges Banks breach of contract and defamation. Banks claims she was defamed in a Sept. 18 social-media exchange written by cheerleading coach Amanda Secrist, and that the District violated terms of the agreement she, the District and the Williamsfield Education Association labor union signed when she took an administrative leave and resigned. For The Weekly Post
For The Weekly Post
Continued on Page 2
tional Programs. That shows that American students between Grades 4 and 12 tested at 36 to 38 percent at or above proficient in reading and 26 to 40 percent at or above proficient in math. Brimfield showed positive growth in reading and math and improved from 2013 in math;
By BILL KNIGHT
By TERRY BIBO
BRIMFIELD – As long as they follow village commands, a new animal grooming/boarding business can “stay” at 124 W. Knoxville. Every seat was claimed at the Village Board of Trustees meeting Monday night, mostly to discuss a special use permit for Jeff Wagoner and Barb McKown. The brother/sister partners’ new business would be on a property which is zoned for commercial use, but the bordering properties are currently in residential use. Potential neighbors voiced concerns the business wouldn’t meet zoning code, although the Zoning Board of Appeals had recommended board approval, and Village Attorney Rick Johnson had agreed. “You get the most control because it is a special use,” John-
$8,650 $9,087 $8,782 $9,087 $12,674 $12,521
Aubrey Hopkins and her mother, Kelsie Hopkins, were smiling during a visit with Santa at EB Buildings & Lumber last Saturday during Princeville’s Holiday Homecoming. A gingerbread house contest also attracted entries like the one at left during the annual Princeville event – one of several Christmas events held in area towns last weekend. Photos by Collin Fairfield.
Continued on Page 2
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, December 10, 2015
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BRIMFIELD: Seven conditions for business Continued from Page 1
son said. “You can put conditions on it. If they don’t live up to it, you can revoke it.” There are seven conditions: Wagoner and McKown must own the property. There can be no more than 10 animals boarded or held. Animals only can be let out one at a time, on a leash, and a fence will be erected within six months of opening. A drain system will be installed. Outside waste from animals will be removed at once and taken from the property daily. The owners will address noise concerns. And the special use will not transfer with the sale of the building.
Wagoner offered a letter from the state fire marshall in response to concerns about environmental hazards at the property, which had been a gas station and laundromat. “If I were your lawyer, I’d have you get an engineer to check it out,” Johnson said. Much of the discussion revolved around fencing. Wagoner said animals would not be loose in the yard, but he would like the extra security in case one slips a leash. With audience input, the board debated privacy vs. chain-link fencing. “You tell me,” Wagoner said, more than once. Removing hair and waste daily
should address allergy concerns, according to Wagoner and McKown, who promised to address noise and odor issues that may arise. The board approved unanimously, with those conditions. “We’re going to be neighbors,” Wagoner said. In other business, the board renewed a professional service agreement with Good Energy and reduced fees for properties which have experienced water leaks. Board President Dan Fishel noted this is the second time fees have been reduced for Eagle Family Medicine and Sherman’s Pharmacy and relief will not be granted again.
BANKS: Seeks damages, demands jury by trial Continued from Page 1
Banks didn’t respond to a request for a comment. Williamsfield Superintendent Tim Farquer said, “Unfortunately, we are restricted from commenting on pending litigation. We continue to remain fo-
cused on the growth of our students, our staff, and our community.” Filed in the 9th Circuit Court in Knox County, the suit alleges Secrist defamed Banks “by indicating Banks resigned from the school because she had
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sexual relations with a student and was told it was being investigated.” The District, the suit says, “allowed and sanctioned Secrist’s disparaging comments.” On Jan. 12, Banks agreed in a document signed by her and representatives of the school board and the union to leave then, although she was paid through June at an annual salary of more than $60,000. In a “non-disparagement” section of the agreement, she and the Board agreed to take no action
“which is intended ... to induce another to cause harm to each other.” However, Banks also agreed in that agreement to “forever discharge Board, ... individual members of Board, ... its employees .. from any and all matters of action ... that may have or has arisen out of the employment, work, or employment relationship of Banks and District, ... whether known or unknown.” Banks is seeking compensatory and punitive damages plus costs, and demands a trial by jury.
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, December 10, 2015
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THE WEEK AHEAD HOT PICKS This Week!
s Tour of Homes – Princeville Women’s Club Christmas Tour of Homes is Saturday (Dec. 12), 4-7 p.m. Tickets $8, or $10 at door. Call (309) 385-2048. s Cookie Walk – Union Church in Brimfield cookie walk is Saturday (Dec. 12) from 8:30-11 a.m. Cookies and candy sold for $8 per pound. s Christmas Music – Williamsfield-Dahinda UMC combined choir will perform bells and narration in Christmas at the Nativity on Sunday (Dec. 13) at 2 p.m. at Williamsfield Methodist Church.
and selections for 2016. s Teen Movies – Watch a movie at s Senior Citizens – A senior citizens Brimfield Public Library on Wednesday breakfast will be held at Elmwood High (Dec. 16) from 3:30-5 p.m. Popcorn School today (Dec. 10) served, bring your own at 8 a.m. drinks. Publicize Your Event s Craft Show – Fams Holiday Story – HoliCall us at (309) 741-9790 ily bingo is today day story hour at Farmor email information about (Dec. 10) at 6 p.m. at ington Public Library is your upcoming event to Morrison and Mary Wednesday (Dec. 16) news@wklypost.com. Wiley Library in Elmfrom 11-11:45 a.m. for wood. To register, call ages 3-5. Call (309) 245(309) 742-2431. 2175. s Free Bread – Free bread at Elmwood Methodist Church Friday (Nov. s Ladies Craft – Ladies craft night will 11) at 10 a.m. be held at Morrison and Mary Wiley Lis Musical Night – Edelstein Commubrary in Elmwood on Dec. 17 at 6:30 nity Church “Come with Joyful p.m. Ladies 18 and older invited. RegisHearts” music program is Saturday tration required. Call (309) 742-2431. (Dec. 12). Light supper from 4:30-5:30 s Christmas Craft – Christmas Make p.m., music program at 6 p.m. FeaturIt/Take It is Dec. 19 from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. ing Pat Ward and the Hott quartet. at Morrison and Mary Wiley Library. No s Kids Club – Wonder Kids Club at registration required. Brimfield Public Library is Monday s Scrapbooker’s Workshop – (Dec. 14) from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Kids in Princeville LME Library Scrapbooker’s preschool-second grade invited to Workshop is Dec 19. from 10 a.m.-12 make glow-in-the-dark experiments. p.m. s Book Club – Princeville LME Lis Lego Club – Kids in kindergarten brary book club coffee chat is Monday through fifth grade are invited to Brim(Dec. 14) at 3 p.m. in the Turner Room. field Public Library for a Holiday Cheer Books of the past year will be discussed Lego Build on Dec. 21 from 6-7 p.m.
This Week’s Events
Future Events
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Address Amount 416 E. Main St., Elmwood $67,800 110 W. Southgate Dr., Elmwood $144,900 16506 N. Route 78, Laura $49,514 22705 N. White Grove Rd., Princeville $520,000 5909 N. Eden Rd., Elmwood $270,000 330 S. Edwards Ave., Princeville $107,000 7660 W. Chestnut Dr., Edwards $175,000 436 N. Washington St., Brimfield $62,000 NOTE: Listings reflects minimum of $40,000 for sale.
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, December 10, 2015
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The Weekly Post The Weekly Post is published every Thursday (except the last weeks of December and June) by Lampe Publications LLC, 115 W. Main St., Elmwood, IL 61529. All phone numbers listed are in area code (309). Postmaster - Send address changes to The Weekly Post, P.O. Box 745, Elmwood, IL 61529 Phone - 741-9790 Fax - 741-9365 Email - news@wklypost.com Office Hours - Mon-Wed 9-3, Thurs 9-12, Fri 9-3 News - Jeff Lampe 231-6040, jeff@wklypost.com Classifieds - Shelly Brodine 741-9790 Advertising - 741-9790 Subscriptions - Subscriptions $50 for 50 issues. Deadlines - News due Tuesdays by noon. Retail ads and classifieds due Mondays by noon. Quotable – “The Beatles set the rules. And the rules were: now just because we have long hair doesn't mean that we're rebellious.” – Davy Jones Illinois Press Association Member
Of bad states, bad cats and bad hair
Rambling through central Illinois pondering why young men feel the need to grow long hair when they leave home. uuu Great news! Illinois is no longer the worst state in the U.S. So says 24/7 Wall Street, which now lists Illinois 49th on its list of worst-run states, ahead of New Mexico. Why is Illinois ranked so low? While collecting more than $3,000 per capita in state and local taxes each year (one of the highest rates Jeff in the nation), we LAMPE have one of the smallest rainy day funds, carry debt that is more than three-fourths of our annual revenue, have only enough assets to cover 39 percent of our pension obligations and have the worst credit rating from S&P and Moody’s. Sigh. ... Need more good news? Iowa ranked third in the same survey (North Dakota was No. 1). uuu Best report from the second shotgun deer season had nothing to do with antlers. Carl Anderson of Kickapoo sent in an email and video detailing what he thinks was a mountain lion encountered while he and his grandson Zach Thrall were hunting at the Big 25 Sportsmen’s Club near Victoria. While it’s tough to tell from the footage, Anderson is “80 percent sure” the critter he saw
and heard was a lion. “Zach did some research at home tonight and found cougar sounds on You Tube that sound exactly like what we heard. While our video is not the best quality, we believe that with it and the sound comparison ... that we did in fact see one. It was awesome.” Anderson is curious if any in the area have similar sightings. uuu Jake Ward of Trivoli needs help, fast. Ward, 27, is in Stage Five renal failure and has just 13 percent kidney function. His wife. Brittany, had hoped to donate her kidney but learned recenetly she can’t help. The problems are taking a toll on Ward’s family, which includes three young children. To raise money to help offset mounting bills, friends have started a Go Fund Me page at www.gofundme.com/hy7eud6k. ... In case you wondered about this week’s cartoon, I lost track of who was owed what politically. It seems no Republicans, Democrats or folks from Billtown have paid me off lately. ... A report in England’s Daily Mail newspaper had deceased singer Scott Weiland, formerly of Stone Temple Pilots, partying in “Elmwood, Illinois” days prior to his recent death while wearing an orange stocking cap. Was Weiland here for the Christmas Walk? Deer hunting? Nope. Turns out he was in Elgin. ... Getting called by the little guy to come home from work because he misses Dad never gets old. uuu Once upon a time, I had long hair.
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Now it makes me nervous, except on women. So attending last Friday’s White Out assembly put on by the Elmwood basketball teams brought great joy. The concept is simple: Raise money for St. Jude in part thanks to kids volunteering to get their heads shaved, coaches getting duct-taped to the wall and other hijinks. While coaches Emily Roberts and Kyle Anderson were good sports for being taped to the wall, the best sport was freshman hoopster Ricky Hightower, whose dark locks covered the floor in Elmwood’s gym after the shaving. His hair was so long coaches at first thought they might have to en- Hightower list the services of Mick Crouch, Elmwood’s famed sheep shearer. ... The good news, in addition to White Out raising over $7,500, is that Hightower has played much better since he was shorn, proving there is no truth to the myth of Samson. ... College-age males should take note of the previous sentence. Why is it all these college kids are coming home with hair longer than the girls? Hmm, seems I once heard the same question from my father. ... Parting $hot: No, we do not accept payoffs. Proof? We ran a story this issue about our van getting totaled.
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, December 10, 2015
GUEST VOICES
Why giving really is better than receiving
I’ve been very fortunate when it comes to good memories of Christmas. My parents were never the richest family in town, but the love and sharing that was always found in our home made us feel that way. In fact, I found out later in life, that Mom and Dad often Jon skipped a meal or two just to make GALLAGHER sure Santa was able to make an appearance while I slept on Christmas Eve. Kids at school would brag about their bounty after we returned after the Christmas break. One kid in particular bragged about how instead of hanging a stocking by the fireplace, he and his siblings set out clothes baskets, which they found filled on Christmas morning. He probably doesn’t remember a single thing that was in any clothes basket from any year, but I remember gifts that Santa brought for me because he always did his best, and the gifts were always special. Certain Christmases stand out to me and the memories are as clear
and bright as a snow-covered lawn on Christmas Eve. In 1965, Santa brought a drum set. It was a cheap toy, but it got me started playing the drums, something I continued to do throughout high school. I remember getting my first pair of roller skates in 1973 and having to wait a few days for the Grand Roller Rink to open so I could try them out. I have special memories, perhaps even more so, of my own children opening extra-special gifts on Christmas morning. I had always been told that it is “better to give than receive,” and I don’t think I really understood that sentiment until I had kids of my own. I did get a good start on understanding it a few years before I had kids of my own, however, and it was a very powerful message. It was 1979. It was three years before I’d get married and five years before my first child would arrive. I was making my living at the time as a professional magician, travelling through the state, doing magic shows for groups. I had been hired by the Galesburg Jaycees to perform for their annual Christmas party. This party is spe-
cial in that each JC would invite an “adopted” child to the party. The adopted children came from the less-fortunate in Galesburg, and they usually lived in one of the housing projects. Each child was treated to pizza (at that time, a relatively rare treat), ice cream, and a gift depending on their gender. They also got entertained by a real live magician: me! Please realize that I was just a punk kid myself. I’d only been performing shows for a few years, and I hadn’t learned how to control rowdy kids at a show yet. This group of kids was one of the rowdier groups I’d ever done and with no microphone, I spent a better part of the night yelling, or trying to yell, over the top of the din they created. I was sort of like trying to drown out a jackhammer with a jack-inthe-box. Therefore, I was concerned with just one thing: get the show over so I could collect my check and be on my merry little way. I was slamming my equipment into my packing trunk haphazardly. I’d straighten it out later, but for now, getting out of there and back so some sort of peace and quiet was
a man who never knew how much he was kneaded. The funeral was held at 3:50 for about 20 minutes. – John Tanney, Princeville
tabs, charge accounts and accepting checks. Most stores and cafes in small towns still honor these. Bartering is another viable payment option. Speaking of bartering, just the other day I traded homeraised beef (raised in my backyard) for farm-fresh eggs. And I can’t count the times my husband has baled someone’s hay, gathered cattle for others, fixed a neighbor’s fence or loaned equipment in exchange for another service or critter. Recently after baling hay for a neighbor, we received a pony as payment! While I can’t say for sure, since I don’t reside in a city, I highly doubt an animal is an acceptable form of payment there. So during this time of thanks, instead of focusing on what our small towns may lack, why not be thankful for all the wonderful things a small town can provide? – Elisha Smith, Lyons, Neb. Center for Rural Affairs
Continued on Page 7
Bidding a fond adieu to a much-kneaded friend
To the Editor: Please join me in remembering a great icon of the entertainment community. The Pillsbury Doughboy died yesterday of a yeast infection and trauma complications from repeated pokes in the belly. He was 71. Doughboy, is survived by his wife, Play Dough, 3 children, John Dough, Jane Dough and Dosey Dough. Plus they had one in the oven. He is also survived by his elderly father, Pop Tart. Doughboy was buried in a lightly greased coffin. Dozens of celebrities turned out to pay their respects, including Mrs. Butterworth, Hungry Jack, the California Raisins, Betty Crocker, the Hostess Twinkies and Captain Crunch. Aunt Jemima delivered the eulogy and lovingly described Doughboy as
Be thankful for all that small towns can offer
I don’t usually reflect much on the abundant amenities of where I live. Generally I take the open spaces, fresh air, breathtaking sunsets and a myriad of other things for granted. But a recent “Rural Housewives” article reminded me of the many benefits that small town and rural living provide. There are obvious things like beautiful landscapes, bright stars at night, friendly people, knowing your neighbors and so on. Then there’s the less obvious, little things that are unique to small towns. Some are little things like
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, December 10, 2015
PUBLIC RECORD
NOTE: Charges are merely an accusation. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Toulon motorist injured on Route 180
WILLIAMSFIELD – Dannon Wheeler, 34, of Toulon on Nov. 26 was injured when her 1999 Ford Explorer was northbound on Illinois Route 180 when it left the road, striking a tree on the west side of the highway in the 1600 block, according to the Knox County Sheriff’s Office. BYE Ambulance transported her to OSF St. Francis Medical Center, reports said.
Oak Run resident reports harassment
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DAHINDA – Knox County Sheriff’s deputies responded to an harassment complaint on Dec. 4, when Eric Rose, 33, of Oak Run reported a white SUV with three white males harassing him outside his home, according to reports. Rose also told responding officers the vehicle and its unknown occupants have harassed him before, and his phone stops working when they’re present. Rose previously reported his phone and a social-media account being hacked, and that some neighbors were bothering him.
Weekly Post van totaled in rollover accident
YATES CITY – Snowy conditions contributed to a rollover accident on the afternoon of Dec. 2 for a delivery van owned by Lampe Publications LLC. Driver Patrick Sullivan of Elmwood was unhurt in the one-vehicle accident, which resulted in the 2004 Chevy Van being towed from a farm field on Knox County Road 2300 E. The vehicle was totaled in the accident. A Knox County sheriff, B.Y.E. Ambulance Service and ElbaSalem Fire Department all responded.
driving northbound on Duncan Road left the road and struck a power pole at a railroad crossing, according to the Peoria County Sheriff’s Office. Edwards told police she had swerved to miss a deer. The Akron-Princeville Fire Department transported her to UnityPoint Methodist Medical Center, police said.
Peoria County crime data out for November
The Peoria Sheriff’s Department released its monthly Crime Statistics Report for November for the eight Peoria County townships in The Weekly Post’s circulation area: • Brimfield city and township together had 1 drug arrest, 2 thefts, 1 vandalism/criminal damage to property, 1 accident with no injuries, and 1 traffic ticket. • Elmwood city and township together had 1 assault, 1 residential burglary, 1 Driving Under the Influence, 7 accidents without injuries, and 5 traffic tickets. • Jubilee Township had 1 theft, 2 accidents without an injury and 1 traffic ticket. • Kickapoo had 1 burglary of a non-residence, 2 thefts, 1 identity theft, 1 auto theft, 4 vandalism/criminal damage to property reports, 2 accidents with injuries, 8 accidents without injuries, and 1 traffic ticket. • Millbrook had 4 Driving Under the Influence charges, and 4 traffic tickets. • Princeville city and township together had 3 burglaries of a motor vehicle, 1 criminal sexual assault, 1 domestic battery, 2 thefts, 1 accident with an injury, and 1 accident without injuries. • Radnor had 1 battery, 1 theft, 1 identity theft, 1 vandalism/criminal damage to property, 1 accident with an injury, 6 accidents without injuries, 2 fatal accidents, and 2 traffic tickets. • Rosefield had no incidents reported.
Princeville driver hurt in Police Reports 1-car collision • FARMINGTON – Austin PRINCEVILLE – Julie Edwards, 49, of Princeville was injured when the vehicle she was
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Vogel, 19, of Farmington on Dec. 5 turned off Court Street onto North 2nd Street when the 2003
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Pontiac Grand Am he was driving struck a parked car, police said. Farmington police ticketed Vogel for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and Driving Under the Influence and issued him a Notice To Appear. • Zakkary Scherer, 24, of Farmington on Nov. 30 was arrested for Failure to Appear and transported to the Peoria County Jail. • Jerimay Keel, 27, of Elmwood on Dec. 1 was arrested for Driving Under the Influence and transported to the Peoria County Jail. • Anthony Fett, 37, of Farmington on Dec. 2 was arrested for domestic battery and transported to the Fulton County Jail. • Craig Severine, 22, of Farmington on Dec. 2 was arrested for retail theft and issued a Notice to Appear. • Allen Moore, 32, of Princeville on Dec. 3 was arrested on a Knox County warrant and transported to the Peoria County Jail to hold for another agency. • Austin Baker, 20, of Smithfield on Dec. 6 was arrested for disorderly conduct and transported to the Fulton County Jail.
Deer Accidents
• Nov. 29 – Justin Strappe of Elmwood near McClellan and Graham Chapel Roads in Elmwood Township. • Dec. 1 – Abram Courtney of Galesburg on Interstate 74 near mile marker 67 in Elba Township. • Dec. 3 – James Sponsler of Princeville near Cedar Hills Drive and Bland Road in Princeville Township. • Dec. 5 – Clarence Christopher of Trivoli near Cottonwood and Townhouse Roads in Rosefield Township.
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• Tristan Roger Herrmann of Laura and Larissa Rose Feucht of Edelstein.
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GALLAGHER: Nicest doll ever Continued from Page 5
the only thing on my mind. As I picked up my trunk to leave, a little girl came up to me. Her name was Annie (I remember this because we ended up giving our first-born daughter Anne as a middle name because of this little girl). I guessed her to be 5 or 6 years old, but I really didn’t have any reference points to go from since I didn’t have any kids. She wasn’t like the other kids. The others were wild-eyed whirlwinds of pure chaos. Her eyes were bright and twinkling. She was holding a boxed doll that she’d been given as a gift. There wasn’t anything special about this doll. It didn’t walk or talk. Its arms and legs moved into poseable positions, but its eyes didn’t even close when you laid it on its back. It was just a cheap, generic doll that the Jaycees had picked up for next to nothing. “See my doll, Mr. Magician?” she asked, holding it out for me to inspect. “Isn’t she pretty?” I could tell somehow from the tone of her voice that she’d probably never gotten a gift as nice as this. This run-of-the-mill,
ordinary doll was a treasure to her. I crouched down so I could pretend to look at it. I still wasn’t really interested in it. Annie set the doll down, and threw her arms around my neck. “Mr. Magician, it’s the nicest doll in the whole world!” Then I got a kiss. And then she pulled out the big club so she could hammer the next line home. “Mr. Magician, I love you! Thank you for coming tonight!” I’d never had a little kid tell me that they loved me. I’d never gotten a hug and a kiss from a little kid either. That’s the moment that I learned what that old saying about being better
to give than receive meant. She didn’t complain because it wasn’t better; Annie was more than thankful for what she had received. So I took a better look at Annie’s doll. Through some damp eyes, I could see that she was right. It was the nicest doll in the world. REMINDER: This is just a reminder that on Sundays during December between noon and 5 p.m., I’m inviting you into my home to view my Christmas display. In Elmwood, go in the door that leads to the Masonic Temple, go up the 25 stairs, and through the door on the right. You can’t miss me. Hope to see you here.
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, December 10, 2015
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Landowners urged to bargain with Ameren By BILL KNIGHT
BRIMFIELD – Landowners along the state-approved route for Ameren’s new transmission line between Peoria and Galesburg are about to face proposals to let the utility use part of their property, but initial discussions are just starting points, according to the Farm Bureau. “We want to educate you on the process,” said attorney Laura Harmon, senior counsel for the Illinois Farm Bureau, speaking to a group of more than 50 people Wednesday at the American Legion hall here. “This is the next step so you know what to expect,” she said. The new 345,000-volt Spoon River Transmission Line using singleshaft steel poles is planned from an expanded Fargo substation on U.S. Route 150 in Kickapoo Township north toward Princeville, then west near Williamsfield en route to a new substation on Galesburg’s east side, a distance of 46 miles. Construction on the $150 million project is scheduled to start next year to be online in 2018. Landowners already have received copies of the Agricultural Impact For The Weekly Post
24001 W. Farmington Road, Farmington, IL 61531
Mitigation Agreement (AIMA), but that’s an agreement between the state Department of Agriculture and Ameren, Harmon said. “That’s not specific to your farmland,” she said. “These are minimum standards – on construction, compaction, broken tiles and so on. It’s a floor, not a ceiling.” Soon, Ameren land agents are expected to make contact to begin negotiations for easements. “Their standard easement is one-sided,” Harmon said. “It doesn’t address farm landowners’ concerns.” Of some 50 points in Ameren’s standard easement agreement, there are about 35 exceptions that land agents are authorized to change, and Harmon strongly suggested revising it and adding protections tailored to individual circumstances. “They’re going to try to get consent forms [signed],” she said. For example, “they have the right to survey, but not core boring or invasive activities. They know better, but you have to call them on it.” Harmon recommended incorporating parts of AIMA into individual agreements to make such
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protections enforceable. She also suggested adding indemnification protections, language to recover attorney fees to enforce the agreement, clarifications on what’s a temporary easement and what’s a permanent easement, and limitations. Also, she noted, company appraisals may not always reflect what a landowner considers fair market value since appraisers work for Ameren. “Get your own certified appraiser, especially for value apart from crops, such as walnut trees,” Harmon said. Also, it can be wise for landowners to have an ag inspector on site during construction authorized to halt work if necessary. “You’re going to want to get pretty specific” in the easement, she said. Harmon also was asked about situations where a tenant operates a farm for an absentee landlord and options should the line in-
terfere with GPS or other technologies, and she recommended getting property owners’ authorization to bargain on their behalf and to note in any agreement that Ameren would be responsible for operations adversely affected by the power line. Ameren could eventually be granted eminent domain by the Illinois Commerce Commission, which would let the utility use land in the public interest if a Circuit Court agrees. Before the state grants eminent domain, utilities must document the number of contacts with landowners, offers of comparable compensation, attempts to address owners’ concerns, and how additional negotiations might not be fruitful. “They’re one of the most difficult companies to negotiate with,” she said. “You can end up with an easement you can live with – that you can farm with.”
THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, December 10, 2015
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Billtown village ‘in good shape’ By BILL KNIGHT
WILLIAMSFIELD – Hours after the state senate approved restoring Motor Fuel Tax, video-gaming and other payments to municipalities, the Williamsfield Village Board on Monday welcomed the forthcoming revenues as more good news. “We’re in good shape,” said Village President Michael Gray, reporting General Fund balances of $134,000 in revenue and $127,000 in expenses. Looking at waterworks financials, Gray reported $107,000 in receipts after grant-related expenses were deducted, and net expenses of $92,000. “We’re on track,” he added. Looking to remain on track, the Board in a rollcall vote unanimously approved a 5-percent increase in the tax levy, which the Board initially OK’d by consensus last month. That will mean the Village’s certified rate will be 0.4241 from real estate taxes. “We want to keep property taxes low,” Gray said. Afterward, Gray reviewed the Board’s 2015 For The Weekly Post
achievements such as finalizing a state grant for water tower work, which included painting it inside and out and installing a new generator (which is expected to arrive on Friday); arranging for an upgrade to Illinois Route 180; getting underground fuel tanks removed from the shuttered T-Mart business; and helping with local campaigns to relocate a military helicopter to the American Legion and to improve the Caldwell Cottage historic site. “This is all in addition to the mowing, police protection, sidewalks and street and so on,” Gray said. “I’d like the Board to come to the January meeting with goals for next year.” In other news: • the police department has a new non-emergency phone number with voicemail: (309) 639-2303, and
notes that if people need police for a complaint or report when no Williamsfield officer is on duty, they should call the Knox County Sheriff’s Office’s non-emergency number – (309) 343-9151; • the Board noted an increasing number of people using the park after it’s closed, and Police Chief James Robertson said two ordinance violations were recently issued for possession of drug paraphernalia; • the Board usually meets the first Monday of each month, but because of holidays rescheduled two meeting dates in 2016 to July 11 and Sept. 12; and • Trustee Jim Folger reported that work has started on overhauling decades-old water hydrants, which he said “is going to save the town a lot of money.”
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SCHOOLS: Time needed to gauge PARCC Continued from Page 1
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Elmwood also showed positive growth in both areas and improved in math; Farmington showed positive growth in reading and negative growth in math, although both areas improved from 2013; Princeville was positive in reading and math and improved its 2013 math score; and Williamsfield showed negative growth in both reading and math and fell slightly in math from 2013. PARCC results are expected soon. “Our students are progressing very well in both reading and math since 2013,” said Farmington Superintendent John Asplund. “We have developed a system to accelerate our advanced students and to remediate our students who need more assistance in math.” Brimfield Superintendent Joe Blessman said, “Our average ACT in 2013 was 21.6 and in 2014 it was 22.1. It is difficult to compare one year to the next due to the fact that we are testing different students. An outlier or two from one year to the next can skew your scores
when you are dealing with such a small population.” In Williamsfield, Superintendent Tim Farquer said,“Student achievement is the most important part of the report. We are withholding analysis until achievement data is finalized and included.” Perhaps predicting reaction to PARCC scores when they’re revealed, all of the Superintendents were cautious about what people should expect. “In regards to analyzing the recently implemented PARCC tests, it is going to take some time for the state and school districts to come up with accurate base-line measurements that depict the performance level of our students,” said Elmwood Superintendent Chad Wagner. In Princeville, Superintendent Shannon Duling was realistic and cautious. “With the new assessment, all scores have dropped,” Duling said. “We were expecting lower scores based on the new assessment and the updates we have been receiving from ISBE. With all of the issues in the implementation of PARCC, as well as this being the first time our students have taken the assessment, we are not going to put a lot of emphasis in the scores.
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We will review the data, along with other more consistent data sources, to help us make curriculum adjustments.” An often overlooked statistic, student mobility can point to challenges. “We have a growing itinerant population,” Asplund said. “Our student mobility (students leaving and enrolling during the year) has gone up. Every time a student moves, that student loses, on average, at least four months of progress in their education. This creates significant problems for those students who move three or more times each year.” Regardless of the area measured, educators are adjusting. “Our teachers have been working hard with our Response to Intervention (RTI) and our classroom rigor,” said Blessman, in Brimfield. “Our curriculum committee has met several times to evaluate our curriculum, and we are continually looking at ways to improve.” Duling expressed similar thoughts. “We will continue to evaluate our current practices and course offerings,” he said. “Our staff has worked hard to make the transition over to the new state standards and, with time, we feel our
modifications to instructional programming will continue to produce a learning environment where all students experience success and reach their full academic and social potential.” Overall, Wagner was pleased with Elmwood’s marks. “The 2014-15 Illinois Report Card for Elmwood District 322 showed an increase in Total Enrollment with 693 students,” he said. “Our graduation rate increased to 91 percent in 2014-15. Our instructional and operational per pupil expenditures continue to be below state averages, indicating that the quality education offered to our kids is done in a fiscally conscientious manner.” Likewise, Asplund appreciates Farmington’s Report Card results, especially in larger contexts. “Our tax rate has been going down for the past five years,” Asplund said. “We have worked to keep our students fees as low as possible. “If the state continues to underfund public schools, a greater burden will need to be shifted to property tax payers or we will need to reduce our programming for students.”
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Christmas gift ideas for the gardener By RON DIETER
If the current mild weather is the result of global warming, I’ll take it. Nonetheless it is difficult for me to get into the Christmas shopping mood when instead of seeing my breath, I break out in a sweat as I work outdoors. But the calendar moves on regardless of the weather, and Christmas is only two weeks away. Shopping for the gardeners on your list is fun and easy if you are a gardener, but if playing in the soil isn't your idea of a good time, you may need some help selecting an item to dazzle the gardener in your life. I have a few suggestions. Classic terra cotta pots have come a long way from the old “flower pot” style and now appear in a wide array of shapes and designs, all relatively inexpensive. Using acrylic paints, you can decorate and personalize a terra cotta clay pot to create a unique gift for a special friend or relative. Make the pot a “gift basket” by filling it with garden-related items such as gloves, hand creams, plant tags, trowels and a bottle of wine (grapes grow in gardens, don't they?). My wife Donna has a favorite hand trowel that is permanently attached to her hand in springtime. It’s the Wilcox All Pro No. 251s. She uses it constantly for planting and digging. It is a stainless steel one-piece construction, with straight For The Weekly Post
sides, a sharp point, and a soft rubber handle grip. This trowel will never break and the handle will never fall off. Although it comes in several sizes, she uses the No. 251s most times. Later in the season, she prefers her stainless steel soil knife, the AM Leonard Company’s #4752, for weeding, transplanting, dividing and cutting back perennials and grasses. The heavy gauge, six-inch blade is serrated on one edge for cutting through tough roots and dividing clumps of daylilies, hostas and such. The trowel and the soil knife are priced about $20 each. There are a couple of pricier items gardeners would love to have. One is the Felco No. 2 pruners, made in Switzerland. You’ll find these pruning shears in the back pockets of most professional landscapers and gardeners. They have a replaceable cutting blade and forged alloy handles with rubber grips. They cut correctly by shearing rather than smashing. A gardener will affectionately refer to these lifetime tools as “my Felcos.” Most competing companies make shears that “look” like a Felco, so be careful when you shop. Several models are made by Felco, but the No. 2 is the gold standard. It costs about $45. We’ve had ours for more than 25 years now. If you want to give a unique gift to a gardener, or for that matter, to a non-gardener, you can’t go wrong with a hose. Unique? Certainly. For
Princeville board OKs joining Rural Ent. Zone By BILL KNIGHT
PRINCEVILLE – The Village Board on Monday (Dec. 7) unanimously approved an ordinance to take part in another Peoria County Rural Enterprise Zone application to the State of Illinois. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is accepting a second round of applications through the end of this month. A similar proposal was rejected this year, but Peoria County Assistant County Administrator for Economic Development Mark Rothert said this effort may have a better chance for acceptance. Chillicothe, Elmwood and Hanna City would also participate. If approved and enacted in January 2017, the EnFor The Weekly Post
terprise Zone would waive building, zoning and other fees for projects developed within the area, and abate property taxes for five years for commercial, industrial or manufacturing developments in the zone. In other action, the Board voted to vacate part of the Right of Way on Craig Street in the Aten Acres subdivision. “This allows the Number 11 lot to be larger,” said Board President Sid Stahl. “Now it will be recorded at the County and we’ll be set.” The Board on Nov. 17 approved enlarging the size of the lot to make it more suitable for a sizable residence. The subdivision is in Princeville’s Tax Increment Financing TIF-3 area.
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one thing, it’s a pretty safe bet they won’t get a garden hose from anybody else for Christmas. Having been in the garden and nursery business for more than 35 years, Donna and I have been dragging garden hoses around for nearly half our lives, like the chains of Jacob Marley. This summer we bought a Flexilla brand garden hose after reading about it in a garden magazine. It is very lightweight and unbelievably flexible, regardless of temperature. It is just as pliable at 10 degrees as it is at 90. The marketing hype says Flexilla hoses won’t kink. Not true. Ours kinks, but only occasionally and the kink comes out with just a shake or quick twist. Unlike most hoses, the Flexilla doesn’t remember a kink. Other hoses tend to kink repeatedly in the same spot. Very aggravating. Flexilla isn’t cheap – our 100footer cost about $70. Not only that, it’s ugly – a florescent lime green (what were they thinking?). I suspect they will introduce colors more subtle and earth-toned after we’ve all bought the margarita version. Of course, a gift certificate from a favorite nursery makes a nice present. Most gardeners are always looking for a special plant or shrub. A gift certificate allows them to select the plant they want when the time is right for planting. But I still like the hose idea.
Thank You!
St. Joseph’s Clothing Exchange wants to thank all par icipants whether you were a volunteer, worker, donor, or recipient. Special thanks to Dan Key , Joseph Har on, and Dan Maher for assisting in ge%ing cars out of the parking lot. Mar$ Thompson & Pa%$ Gorham
10215 W. Knox St., Edwards Located in Kickapoo. 3 BR, 2.5 BA Ranch Home. Large Yard. $174,900 329 Phil Gould Dr., Hanna City 4 BR, 3 BA Ranch Home, 3-stall garage, finished basement, park-like yard. $269,900 215 N. Kellogg St., Yates City 3 BR, 1 BA, large 21x20 room addition on a double lot. $84,900
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FOR SALE • POOL TABLE: 7’ Pool table. Like new condition, great Christmas gift! $250 - OBO. Sherry Powers (309)2532457 or (309)742-8316. • WOODEN TABLE: Antique wooden drop-leaf table. $30 OBO. (309) 231-3350. • VINYL FLOORING: Designer’s Image Platinum Series self-stick 16x16 floor tile, 412 square feet, 12 boxes, 20 pieces per box. (309) 2316040. • EGGS: Edwards fresh cagefree brown eggs. $3 per dozen, delivered to Elmwood Community Center on Mon-
days at 11:30 am. (309) 2519814.
FOR RENT • APARTMENT: 1 Bedroom plus loft, in old grade school apartments. Security building, washer/dryer hook-up, water, and covered parking. Call (309) 678-7146 • OFFICE SPACE: In Kickapoo1500 square feet, five offices and one large main office, utilities included. Call for more information (309) 241-3171. • HOUSE: 2 bedroom, 1 bath, most appliances furnished (stove, refrigerator, dryer), 3 miles south of Farmington, $625 per month INCLUDES PROPANE, (309) 224-2908.
NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY OF AUDIT TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Library Trustees of the Lillie M. Evans Library District, Peoria County, Illinois, as of December 1, 2015 has available a copy of its audit report for the period of July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015. The audit was conducted by the firm of Douglas W. Irwin & Co., Ltd. and may be publicly inspected at the main office of the Library District at 207 N Walnut, Princeville, Illinois, during normal business hours which are: Mondays & Wednesdays 9am-8pm; Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays 9am-5pm; and Saturdays 9am-1pm.
HELP WANTED • PHONE SALESPERSON: Part-time advertising sales position. Good phone skills a must. Previous sales experience a plus. Flexible hours. Call (309) 231-6040. • AD SALESMAN: Part-time advertising salesman needed.
Flexible hours. Not be an in-office job, but will instead involve face-to-face sales calls. Call (309) 741-9790.
WANTED • HUNTING LAND: Seeking land to lease for waterfowl, turkey or deer hunting. (309) 231-6040.
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES OFFICE OF REALTY & ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING DIVISION OF CONCESSION & LEASES NOTICE OF SEALED BID PROPOSALS FOR FARM LEASING
CANCELLATION The Mandatory Vendor Conference for Jubilee College S.P. scheduled for December 9, 2015 has been cancelled and rescheduled for January 25, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. The conference remains a mandatory meeting. It will be held at the site office at Jubilee College S.P., located at 13921 West Route 150, Brimfield IL 61517. Bids and supporting documents are due by 2:00 p.m., February 9, 2016 to: Department of Natural Resources, Attn: Ann Fletcher, One Natural Resources Way, Springfield IL 62702. Bids will be opened at that time. Public may attend the bid opening. The farm lease shall be awarded to the responsive, responsible, qualified bidder with the highest price. The State of Illinois, Department of Natural Resources, shall not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age or handicap in admission to, or treatment or employment in, programs or activities. The Department of Natural Resources reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.
Lillie M. Evans Library District By: Deb Givens Secretary of the Board of Trustees
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BY ORDER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES Wayne A. Rosenthal, Director
Page 12
THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, December 10, 2015
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Elmwood plans ahead with Enterprise Zone By BILL KNIGHT
ELMWOOD – The City Council on Dec. 3 planned for the future in several ways, from agreeing to once more partner with the County and other communities in a new Enterprise Zone application to preparing pre-annexation agreements, from starting arrangements to sell the Senior Citizens Building to monitoring spending with little real estate taxes the rest of the fiscal year. “About 97 percent of the real estate taxes have come in [for the fiscal year],” Treasurer Harold Jehle said. “That means we’ll have to be relying on sales taxes and income taxes as our main sources of monthly revenue.” Five months into the fiscal year, the City’s budget is mostly on target, Jehle said, with projections for sales taxes slightly behind forecasts, but income taxes slightly ahead of predicted revenues. Elmwood reFor The Weekly Post
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ceives about $20,000 a month from income and sale taxes. Relinquishing small amounts of revenue could occur if the state approves a Rural Peoria Enterprise Zone, which the County is packaging in a second attempt after the state rejected an earlier proposal. If OK’d, the new Enterprise Zone would go into effect in January 2017 and required participating municipalities – Chillicothe, Elmwood, Hanna City and Princeville – to waive building, permit and zoning fees for projects developed within the Enterprise Zone, and also abate property taxes for five years for commercial, industrial or manufacturing projects. After a presentation by Mark Rothert, Peoria County’s Assistant County Administrator for Economic Development, the Council unanimously passed an ordinance establishing the Enterprise Zone and approving an InterGovernmental
Agreement with other jurisdictions. Jurisdiction – at least future boundaries – were discussed with city attorney Bob Potts, who explained that two landowners had approached the City about the possibility of entering into a pre-annexation agreement with Elmwood for their properties, which are not yet contiguous with Elmwood’s city limits. The Council asked Potts and Zoning Administrator Dick Taylor to return next month with a proposal for such an agreement, which could bring such properties within Elmwood’s zoning regulations but not require Elmwood to provide police protection, water, etc., until annexation proper. As to the Senior Citizens Center, in the 200 block of South Magnolia Street, the Council is interested in selling the building, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars may be interested in leasing or purchasing it. Continued on Page 13
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Lawrence Blackmore
FARMINGTON – Lawrence A. Blackmore, 51, of Farmington died December 7 at his residence. Survivors include children Brandy (Ryan) Blackmore Driskill of Bartonville and Lawrence L. Blackmore of East Peoria; two grandchildren; girlfriend Valerie Williams of Farmington; mother Nancy Blackmore of Peoria; and siblings Jack (Kathy) Blackmore Jr. of Farmington and Janet (Harry Chip) Fulton of Bartonville. There will be a celebration of life from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday (Dec. 12) at the Shot Spot in Bartonville. Condolences may be left online at www.deitersfuneralhome.com.
Anna Mae Chamberlain
ELMWOOD – Anna Mae Chamberlain, 85, of Naples, Fla., sister of an Elmwood woman and formerly of Peoria, died Nov. 21, at Vitas Hospice in Naples. Survivors include sisters Chloe (Jay) Marten of Elmwood and Patricia Price of Chillicothe; brothers James (Dolores) Grubaugh of Moline and Fred (Dolores) Grubaugh of Orlando, Fla.; and four children, all of Naples. Funeral services were Dec. 5 at
This Week’s Obituaries • Lawrence Blackmore, 51, Farmington • Anna Mae Chamberlain, 85, Elmwood • Janice Gillam, 68, Williamsfield • Gerald G. Wetterow, 76, Williamsfield
We print basic obituaries for free. Longer obituaries cost $1 per column inch;$5 per picture. Call (309) 741-9790.
Davison-Fulton Woolsey Glasford Chapel, with burial at Lancaster Cemetery, near Glasford. Condolences may be left online at legacy.com.
Janice Gillam
WILLIAMSFIELD – Janice M. Gillam, 68, of Williamsfield died Dec. 6 at the Knox County Nursing Home in Knoxville. Survivors include her husband, Larry Gillam Sr.; son Larry (Fawna) Gillam Jr. of Morton; daughter Heather Gillam (Nate Fox) of Williamsfield; five grandchildren; and sisters Carolyn (David) Conover of Wyoming, and Geraldine Bourgault of Florida. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday (Dec. 12) at the
Williamsfield United Methodist Church, with burial at Williamsfield Cemetery. Condolences may be left online at www.ruxfuneralhome.com.
Gerald G. Wetterow
WILLIAMSFIELD – Gerald G. “Yogi” Wetterow, 76, Galva, formerly of Williamsfield, died Dec. 4 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Born in Williamsfield, the son of Glenn S. and M. Bernadine (Howard) Wetterow, he married Barbara Ann Lancaster in 1974 in Victoria. She preceded him in death. Survivors include brothers George (Diane) Wetterow of Peoria, Robert (Shelly) Wetterow of Galesburg, Calvin (Sally) Wetterow of London Mills, Ed Wetterow of Monmouth, and E. Bruce Wetterow of Knoxville; sisters Glenda Hollis of Monmouth, Patricia Clewell, Lorene Simpson, Mary Wetterow, Doris Wetterow and Andrea Jean Wetterow, all of Galesburg, and Diana McCoy of Victoria; and several nieces and nephews. His funeral was Dec. 9 at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. Cremation will be accorded after the funeral. Condolences may be left online at www.ruxfuneralhome.com.
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Page 13
Farm Bureau survey shows concern for 2016 By RACHEL TORBERT
CHICAGO – Considering the current farm economy, 66 percent of Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) members surveyed prior to the organization’s Annual Meeting feel less optimistic about the farm For The Weekly Post
economy in the coming year compared to 2015. The answer was in response to an email survey of 327 IFB members registered with IFB’s Legislative Action Center. “For the second year in a row, IFB members said they feel less optimistic
about the coming year, and it’s no surprise as to why,” said Richard Guebert, Jr., president of the Illinois Farm Bureau. “Over the last year, commodity prices have stayed below break-even levels. Input costs like cash rent, crop protection and seed
Answers on Page 12
have not receded to follow the drop in commodity prices.” As a result of concerns over the farm economy, 84 percent of respondents said they plan to reduce inputs or expenses in 2016. When asked specifically how they would do so, 91 percent of respondents plan to delay implement purchases over the coming year, while 45 percent said they would delay or cut back on chemicals and fertilizer. Additionally, 38 percent said they would negotiate lower cash rent; 37 percent would buy less expensive seed; 24 percent would incorporate new technology; 11 percent would choose a lower level of crop insurance coverage; and 9 percent would give up a portion of rented ground for 2016.
ELMWOOD: Appraisal at $13,500 Continued from Page 12
However, an appraisal by Glassey & Glassey of Pekin set the value of the 1,176 square-foot building at $13,500. The City may be limited to selling the property for 80 percent of its Fair Market Value or making it available through a sealed-bid process, so the Council asked city attorney Stephanie Schmieg to draft an option to proceed. In other news, • Taylor reported that changes to the nuisance ordinances should be ready for consideration in January, and • Taylor and City staff are working on a study correlating sales-tax data with calendar activities and special events.
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NEW LISTING: 7305 Twp Rd 625E, Toulon is a 3 BR, 1.5 Bath Ranch on 5+ Acres! Full walkout basement, sunroom, whole house generator, geo-thermal heat/AC, and 50’x30’ shed! ½ mile south of Stark Co. High School. Must see! Priced at . . . $182,500 REDUCED: 511 Happy Hollow Dr., Dahinda is a 2 BR, 2 Bath Ranch with full walkout basement located in small private lake community. Newer kitchen and baths. Appliances included. NEW Price ... $69,000 Color Photos at www.williamsfield.org
AREA CHURCHES BRIMFIELD St. Joseph Catholic Church Father John Verrier 314 W. Clay, Brimfield (309) 446-3275 www.stjosephbrimfield.org Sat. Confession: 3:30-4:45 pm Sat. Mass: 5 pm Sun. Mass: 10:30 am Daily Mass: Tues.-Fri. 8 am
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod “Preaching Christ Crucified” “Liturgical & Reverential” Pastor Michael Liese 204 W. Clay St., Brimfield (309) 446-3233 Sun. Divine Service: 10 am
Brimfield E-Free Church Pastor Donald Blasing 11724 Maher Road
Brimfield, IL 61517 (309) 446-3571 www.brimfieldefree.org Worship: 10:30 am Sunday School: 9:30 am AWANA - Wed. 6:15 pm, for ages 3-12
Brimfield United Methodist Church Pastor Leonard Thomas 135 S. Galena St., Brimfield (309) 446-9310 Sun. Worship: 9 am Sun. School: 9 am Thurs. Bible Study: 7 pm
Union Church at Brimfield United Church of Christ Pastor Stephen Barch 105 W. Clay Street, Brimfield (309) 446-3811 Sunday Worship: 9 am Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 pm First Sunday each month is Communion Sunday (gluten free communion offered)
(309) 245-2957
EDWARDS Bethany Baptist Church
Elmwood Baptist Church
7422 N. Heinz Ln., Edwards (309) 692-1755 www.bethanycentral.org Sat. Evening Worship: 6 pm Sun. Worship 8:15 & 11 am Wednesday Awana: 6:15 pm
Pastor Dennis Fitzgerald 701 W. Dearborn St., Elmwood (309) 742-7631, 742-7911 Sun. School: 9:30 am Sun Worship: 10:30 am, 6 pm Wed. Prayer Meeting: 7 pm
Christ Alive! Community Church Pastor Lance Zaerr 9320 W US Hwy 150, Edwards (309) 231-8272 www.christalivecc.com Sun. School: 9:15 am Worship: 10:30 am
ELMWOOD Crossroads Assembly of God Pastor Tim Cavallo 615 E. Ash St., Elmwood (309) 830-4259 www.crossroadselmwood.org Wed. Worship: 7 pm Sun. Worship: 10:30 am
First Presbyterian Church of Elmwood Reverend Marla B. Bauler 201 W. Evergreen, Elmwood (309) 742-2631 firstpresbyterianofelmwood.org Sun. Worship: 10:30 am Sun. School: 9:30 am
St. Patrick’s Catholic Church Father Paul Stiene 802 W. Main St., Elmwood (309) 742-4921 Sat. Confession: 3:45 p.m. Sat. Mass: 4:30 p.m. Sun. Mass: 10 am Tues. Rosary: 8:15 am
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United Methodist Church of Elmwood Pastor Bradley F. Watkins II 821 W. Main St., Elmwood (309) 742-7221 www.elmwoodumc.org Sun. Worship: 9 am, 10:30 am Youth Sun. School: 9 am Adult Sun. School: 8 am
Sun. Worship: 10 am Wed. Worship: 7 pm
PRINCEVILLE Princeville United Methodist Church Pastor Ken Dees 420 E. Woertz, Princeville
FARMINGTON
(309) 385-4487
First Presbyterian Church of Farmington
princevilleumc@mediacombb.net
Reverend Dr. Linda Philabaun 83 N. Cone Street, Farmington (309) 245-2914 www.firstpresfarmington.com Sunday School: 9:30 am Fellowship: 10:30 am Worship: 11:00 am
Sunday School: 10:15 am
Sun. Worship: 9 am
YATES CITY Faith United Presbyterian Church Reverend Marla B. Bauler 107 W. Bishop St., Yates City
New Hope Fellowship Assembly of God
(309) 358-1170
Pastor Tom Wright 1102 N. Illinois Route 78 Farmington
Sun. School: 10:15 am
Worship: 9 am Thurs. Choir: 7 pm
Page 14
THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, December 10, 2015
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TRIVIA TEST By Fifi Rodriguez 1. GEOGRAPHY: Which U.S. state is closest to Russia? 2. HISTORY: In what year did labor leader Jimmy Hoffa disappear? 3. FOOD & DRINK: What relative of the banana is a staple food in tropical regions? 4. TIME: When is the next leap day? 5. MOVIES: What famous 1950s movie featured an unlikely couple named Charlie and Rose? 6. MUSIC: Who was the first artist to have a “greatest hits” album? 7. TELEVISION: Who starred as Simon Templar in “The Saint”? 8. SCIENCE: What is the most abundant gas in the air we breathe on Earth? 9. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: In olden days, what was the occupation of a wainwright? 10. ANIMAL KINGDON: What is a baby whale called? Answers
1. Alaska 2. 1975 3. The plantain 4. Feb. 29, 2016 5. “The African Queen” (Humphrey Bogart, Katharine Hepburn) 6. Johnny Mathis 7. Roger Moore 8. Nitrogen. The air is made up of about 78 percent nitrogen, 21 percent oxygen and 1 percent other gasses. 9. One who makes or repairs wagons 10. A calf
FOR ANSWERS SEE PAGE 12
(c) 2015 King Features Synd., Inc.
MOVIES 1. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay — Part 2 (PG-13) 2. The Good Dinosaur (PG) 3. Creed (PG-13) 4. Spectre (PG-13) 5. The Peanuts Movie (G) 6. The Night Before (R) 7. Secret in Their Eyes (PG-13) 8. Spotlight (R) 9. Brooklyn (PG-13) 10. The Martian (PG-13) 2015 King Features Synd., Inc.
BOYS: Farmington wins Tip-Off Tournament Continued from Page 16
ton Thanksgiving Tournament. Brimfield hosts Havana on Saturday while the Cougars are at Midland on Saturday Here’s a look at how other teams fared. Elmwood The Trojans (4-3) came within a hair of beating Delavan on Saturday, one day after players had their heads shaved for charity.
Elmwood led by three points late in the fourth quarter before junior Isaiah Groeper fouled out and Delavan won in overtime, 59-53. Groeper led with 23 points, Vince Lenzi added 13 and Jake Roberts added 8. In a correction from last week, Roberts was all-tournament at the Wethersfield Thanksgiving tournament, not freshman Jacob Brown.
Princeville girls win regional
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The winner of that game plays Saturday (Dec. 12) at 11:30 a.m. at Clinton Junior High School in the first round of state. In Class 8-3A, Farmington lost to Dunlap Valley Middle School in the regional final, 44-40. Email information to jeff@wklypost.com.
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“We have played well in stretches in all our losses, it’s just that youth and inexperience keep us from being consistent for an entire game,” Elmwood coach Josh Fugitt said. “And foul trouble is killing us.” Groeper played with three fouls for part of the first half against Delavan. Elmwood travels to Rushville Friday and then to Princeville on Saturday. Farmington Farmington won the Tip-Off Tournament at Bushnell with a 79-54 victory over the host team last Saturday. Trey Swearingen had six 3pointers and 26 points to lead Farmington (5-1). Last Friday, the Farmers used a strong second half to upend Abingdon-Avon, 50-40. Farmington outscored the home team
34-20 in the final half as Swearingen led the way with 21 points and Caleb Gilstrap added 10. Farmington is home against Peoria Christian in a much-awaited showdown Friday night. Guard Eric Higgs is back practicing but will not play. Princeville The Princes (3-3) have won two straight, including Tuesday’s 68-21 win over Lowpoint-Washburn. Brendan Streitmatter had 21 points on 6-for-7 shooting from outside the 3-point arc and Nick Kraft added 11 points. More goods news is that the team is at full strength after Marshall Martin was cleared to return earlier than expected. Princeville is at Illini Bluffs Friday and plays host to Elmwood on Saturday.
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, December 10, 2015
GIRLS: Trojans top ROWVA, now 5-1 Continued from Page 16
Blane said Brimfield is outscoring foes, 60-33. Elmwood Elmwood moved to 5-1 with a 50-34 victory at Oneida against ROWVA last Thursday. The difference was a 19-8 second quarter. Elmwood’s strength around the basket
was again on display as Allie Meyers struck for 24 points, followed by nine from Morgan Ledbetter and eight by Rachel Jacobson. After this Thursday’s Prairieland contest at home versus Bushnell Prairie City, the Lady Trojans will be much busier
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Ronee Sharp, Elmwood
Ronee Sharp was a member of the Spirit Squad throughout this past year’s football season. She said that she has really enjoyed Spirit Squad even though it, “takes a lot of time, dedication, and hard work.” Ronee credited Spirit Squad with helping her to become more a more social and confident person. She also said, “[Being on Spirit Squad] forced me to schedule my time so that I can get my work done while still having time for practice.” She singled out her friend Alaina Clark as one of her team members on which she most relies saying, “... she supports me constantly and helps me learn the routines more quickly.” She also mentioned that she relies on her family to support her. “My mom and dad and grandparents, Papa Bill and Grandma Judy, are always so supportive.” She mentioned in particular her grandmother who, “makes me tea and lets me vent about my frustrations.” Outside of her commitment to Spirit Squad, Ronee also spends her time singing in choir and working with the little kids in latchkey. When she leaves Elmwood High School she already knows that she will miss. “Mrs. Lynch because she is so nice and helpful and makes me feel at ease when I have questions,” Ronee said. “She is my role-model in life.” Ronee plans to attend Methodist College to become a nurse. – Erik Davis
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in tournaments at Knoxville-Abingdon, then at Princeville just after Christmas. Farmington Farmington gamely battled a taller and much more experienced Knoxville team Monday for almost three quarters until a 10-0 Lady Blue Bullets run led to a 58-37 Prairieland loss for 3-5 Farmington. Hannah Streitmatter was the Farmington scoring leader with 12, and Morgan Powell and Abbey Brown had eight each. In the first half the Lady Farmers stayed close, with Brown facilitating the offense and Powell and Julia DePriest each hitting a big three, it was close at the half, 31-24 in favor of Knoxville. “Julia and Morgan were very key coming off the bench for us,” Farmington coach Jimmy Jordan said. The Lady Farmers showed progress with a 42-30 Saturday home win over Ridgewood. Brown led with 15 points and Megan Gilstrap had 11. Canton temporarily set back the progress of the young Farmers last week with a 73-32 Canton win. Princeville Princeville’s progress was slowed Monday at West Central in a 45-41 loss for the 4-4 team. Half of the Lady Princes’ points came from Lucy Waid’s 11 and Jessica DeVries’ 10. “West Central was effective on keying their defense on Waid and Breana Bauman. We stayed close all the way, but just couldn’t get the baskets we needed,” coach John Gross said. The Lady Princes beat ROWVA 57-27 last week. Bauman was high scorer with 18.
Page 15
ELMWOOD BASKETBALL 2015-16
Members of the Elmwood varsity boys basketball team are: Back Row (left to right) Asst. Coach Kyle Anderson, Jake Roberts, Isaiah Groeper, Colton Gorham, Vince Lenzi, Johnny Keefer, Riley McFall, Coach Josh Fugitt. Front Row (l to r) Manager Sam Kepple, Ethan Jehle, Matt Osmulski, Jacob Brown, Jake Harlow, Charlie McKinty, Tyler Short and Kyle Strait.
Members of the Elmwood girls basketball program are: Back Row (left to right): Grace LaFollett, Rachel Jacobson, Allie Meyers, Morgan Ledbetter, Montana Ledbetter. Middle Row (l to r): Regan McFall, Zofia LeHew, Nicole Collins, K. Hampton, Madison Noll. Front Row (l to r) Ariel Peeples, Grayson Rynearson, Jordan Jones, Shelby Glover, Hannah Long. Photo by Gregg Meyers.
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, December 10, 2015
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COLLEGE SIGNING Elmwood senior Morgan Ledbetter and her parents, Bruce and Joy, smile while she signs a letter of intent to attend Culver-Stockton College, where she will receive a scholarship to play softball.
Brimfield girls roll to 10-0 By PHIL JOHNSON
Brimfield improved to 10-0 on Monday at North Fulton in what’s been their usual manner this season, racing to a 45-16 halftime lead and ending with a 77-44 triumph. The team was led in scoring with 19 points from Kennedy Dura, 16 from Kenzie Schlipf and 11 from Nicole Thurman. Last Saturday, the Lady Indians continued their winning ways in an afternoon matinee at home with a 50-16 rout of Deer Creek Mackinaw. A 9-1 opening period an a 174 advantage coming out of the locker room from the halftime break were easily all that was necFor The Weekly Post
essary for the victory. Schlipf led with 12 points and was followed by Dura (11) and Shayla McCormick (9). Dura was the rebound leader with seven. A 62-32 thrashing of Bushnell Prairie City last Thursday was basically clinched in an 18-4 second quarter for the Lady Indians. Dura led Brimfield’s domination with 28 points, followed by Schlipf’s 12 and McCormick’s 11. After a Thursday matchup this week against Midwest Central, Brimfield will face strong competition in tournament play at Knoxville, followed by the State Farm Classic in Bloomington. Continued on Page 15
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Brimfield wins unbeaten battle By JEFF LAMPE
WILLIAMSFIELD – The Brimfield boys basketball team won a battle of unbeatens Tuesday night, topping ROWVA-Williamsfield, 6236. Ahead by just three points at halftime, Brimfield (7-0) took control in the final two quarters. “We defended better, got better defensive transition and rebounded better,” coach Scott Carlson said. Phelan Kelly led the Indians with 20 points while Jace Swietek scored 15, 6-foot-8 center Brad Novak added 13 rebounds and Koby White dished out 10 assists. Zach Smith was top scorer for the Cougars (6-1) with 12 points. Brimfield had remained perfect by topping Knoxville, 57-37, last Friday in a physical contest that saw Novak sit for one stretch while assistant coach Kevin Kreiter tended to a messy cut on his face. “(Novak is) starting to make his layups and the guys are more confident throwing Weekly Post Staff Writer
Jadyn Ginther cuts some of the hair of Elmwood freshman Ricky Hightower as part of the basketball program’s White Out, which raised more than $7,500 for St. Jude. See Page 4 to see Hightower after his haircut. Photo by Jeff Lampe.
it in to him,” Carlson said. “Last year it took him quite a bit longer to get to this stage.” Novak had 17 points and 10 rebounds against the Blue Bullets and guard Kelly added 21 points. “I don’t know why, but they always seem to come up
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with a good guard to give them a double-barreled attack,” Knoxville coach Mark Simpson said. ROWVA-Williamsfield had remained perfect last Wednesday with a win over Delavan, winners of the CanContinued on Page 14